Introducing STIR – Where Michelin Star Cuisine Meets World-Class Mixology

When Johnnie Walker Princes Street launched its STIR tasting experience last year it aimed to channel the history of innovation and focus on flavour that made Johnnie Walker the world’s most popular whisky. The menu of small dishes created by two-Michelin-starred chefs James and Maria Close pairs with unique cocktails developed by JWPS Head Bartender, Miran Chauhan, to take diners on a culinary journey across Scotland. Served in the Explorers’ Bothy bar on the top floor of the whisky brand’s Edinburgh flagship, STIR is a special treat for fans of fine food and great whisky.

The STIR menu comprises six small plates that are each accompanied by a paired cocktail. Diners can choose to sample one or two of the dishes or can opt for the Four Corners Flight based on the four whiskies that form the famous Johnnie Walker blend; Glenkinchie (Lowlands), Cardhu (Speyside), Clynelish (Highlands) and Caol Ila (Islands). There is also a changing Seasonal Cocktail Flight featuring the current season’s JWPS special blend and a luxury flight made with the premium Johnnie Walker Blue Label blend.

Each of the six micro dishes aims to capture the key flavours present in one of the whiskies, using the finest seasonal ingredients and plenty of imagination to redefine the concept of whisky and food pairing. Expect unusual combinations of flavour and textures, such as the umami heat of the Aguachile Oyster bite and the sweet tang of the show-stopping Apple Cremeux – beautifully formed into the shape of a green apple and accompanied by a Sparkling Orchard Wine drink.

Chauhan’s cocktails skilfully incorporate locally grown or foraged ingredients sourced from the environs of the different distilleries. Berries gathered near Glenkinchie are used in an earthy Hedgerow Aquavit cocktail that is paired with a rich Beef Tartare, while carefully chosen botanicals lend a splash of maritime character to a Cliff Edge Vermouth drink that goes down nicely with the Quail Caesar bite.

The setting for STIR in the spectacular Explorers’ Bothy bar adds a further narrative layer to this unique culinary adventure. Its comfortable booths look out across the Edinburgh skyline through large picture windows that encourage diners to imagine taking flight over the city and beyond to visit each of The Four Corners. The experience is brought to life by knowledgable staff who are on hand to explain the flavours and techniques used to craft the menu. And with over 150 special bottles and one-of-a-kind cask editions behind the bar, the option to stay on for a nightcap is hard to resist.

For more information and to book the STIR experience please visit here.