There’s no better excuse to indulge in a top-shelf dram than World Whisky Day, and in Sandton Central, the experience goes far beyond the bottle. Whether you’re after a rare single malt, a curated tasting flight, or a high-end cocktail crafted with one of the world’s best blends, the city’s finest venues are ready to impress. From elite lounges to rooftop bars and vibey hotspots, here’s where to sip, savour, and celebrate whisky in true Sandton style.
Tucked alongside Maximillien Restaurant in the DAVINCI Hotel, Maxim Lounge is the gold standard for whisky connoisseurs in Sandton. With an extensive collection of rare and unusual whiskies sourced from across the globe, this is the kind of place where you discover something new every time—whether it’s a smoky Islay single malt, a delicate Japanese pour, or a small-batch Bourbon you’ve never heard of but won’t soon forget.
The real highlight? Their ‘Whisky of the Week’—a carefully chosen standout from the collection, showcased to help guests explore something a little different. The vibe is elegant and inviting, with rich leather finishes, moody lighting, and a sense of exclusivity that never feels unwelcoming. Pair your dram with a cigar from their curated humidor, and you’ve got the makings of a proper World Whisky Day celebration.
What to try: Ask the team for the latest ‘Whisky of the Week’ and their recommendation from the rare cask collection.
If you like your whisky with a bit of theatre (literally and figuratively), Artistry brings something a little different to the table. Spanning three levels, this creative hub is part rooftop bar, part performance space, and part vibey restaurant. It’s also home to one of the most impressive whisky lists in the precinct.
Expect top-tier options like the Glenfiddich 26 Year—aged in American oak ex-bourbon casks for a bold and refined flavour—and the Bruichladdich Octomore, a notoriously peaty and punchy Scotch for the more daring palate. The atmosphere shifts depending on the floor—chilled sundowners upstairs, art installations and live music below—making it a dynamic place to explore whisky in different settings.
What to try: Glenfiddich 26 Year for something smooth and luxurious, or Octomore if you’re feeling adventurous.
As the highest bar in Africa, Alto234 is all about elevation—literally and figuratively. Perched atop The Leonardo, this rooftop experience offers panoramic views of Joburg and a whisky list just as elevated. Their selection includes the Glenfiddich Grande Couronne 26YR, known for its French Cognac cask finish and decadent flavour, as well as the Glenmorangie Signet, a bold Highland expression with deep coffee and chocolate notes.
There’s no better way to toast to World Whisky Day than with a rare dram in hand and the city skyline glowing around you. And if you’re making it an occasion, the bar offers a refined selection of small plates and shared bites to match the mood.
What to try: Glenfiddich Grande Couronne 26YR for a celebratory pour, or Glenmorangie Signet for a darker, more complex experience.
From the lush interiors to the bold cocktail culture, Zioux (by David Higgs) is one of Sandton’s most distinctive nightlife spots. Their whisky list leans heavily into exclusivity, with highlights like Jameson 18 Year Bow Street—a rich, limited-release Irish whiskey matured at the original Bow Street Distillery—and The Kurayoshi 18 Year, a refined Japanese whisky known for its smooth, balanced character and hints of oak and vanilla.
The setting is equal parts luxury and drama, making it a go-to for those who want their whisky moment to come with a bit of flair. Whether you’re lounging in one of the plush booths or catching up at the bar, Zioux makes every sip feel like a celebration.
What to try: The Kurayoshi 18 Year for elegant Japanese craftsmanship, or the Jameson 18 Bow Street for a bold, heritage-driven Irish classic.
With its soaring ceilings, mosaic murals, and showstopping open kitchen, Saint has long been a favourite for stylish Sandtonites. And while it’s known for its Italian flair, its whisky offering is nothing short of exceptional.
From the ultra-premium Macallan Reflexion—a rich and velvety Scotch aged in first-fill sherry-seasoned oak casks—to Johnnie Walker King George V, a luxurious blend created to honour a royal warrant, this is the place for those who want their whisky to make a statement. Saint is a see-and-be-seen kind of place, and World Whisky Day is the perfect excuse to dress up and indulge in something rare.
What to try: Macallan Reflexion for opulence in a glass, or Johnnie Walker King George V if you’re in a celebratory mood.
World Whisky Day, Sandton Style
In Sandton Central, whisky isn’t just a drink—it’s a way to travel the world one glass at a time. From Japanese elegance to Scottish powerhouses, rooftop luxury to smoky lounge classics, you’ll find a dram for every taste and a venue for every vibe.
So, whether you’re clinking glasses with friends or flying solo on a flavour journey, raise your glass this World Whisky Day—because there’s nowhere better to savour the good stuff than right here in the city’s heart.
