SMWS Debuts The Whisky Equinox & Two 35cl Bottlings

Marking the Start of Whisky Season on the Autumn Equinox: Breaking Member-Exclusive Tradition with Public Releases

Establishing an Annual Milestone Inspired by Beer and Wine Traditions

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) has announced the creation of a brand-new annual celebration, The Whisky Equinox. Set on the Autumn Equinox of September 23 each year, it signifies the beginning of the prime whisky-drinking season as cooler weather arrives. The Society noted that while the beer world celebrates Oktoberfest and the wine world observes Beaujolais Nouveau Day, the whisky industry has long lacked an equivalent annual calendar fixture. Falling on September 23 when day and night are of equal length, the autumn equinox heralds crisp, lengthening evenings—the quintessential atmosphere for savoring whisky.

Two Limited 35cl Half-Bottles Themed Around Light and Dark

To commemorate the inaugural celebration, SMWS released two limited 35cl half-bottles on September 10, capturing the contrasting light and dark facets of seasonal transition. Riesling Spritz in the Sun is a 12-year-old Speyside single malt, while Spice It Up After Dark is an 11-year-old Highland expression. Historically, SMWS releases have been available exclusively to members, but these two Scotch whiskies mark a historic departure from tradition by being offered to the general public.

Madeleine Schmoll, European Content Manager at SMWS, explained that although whisky can be enjoyed year-round, consumption naturally peaks during autumn and winter. The Society aimed to formally establish this transition point, with the equinox serving as the natural turning point between light and dark. Renowned whisky scholar and Master of The Quaich Annabel Meikle added that designating a calendar date to inaugurate the whisky season makes complete sense, praising any initiative that brings connoisseurs together and welcomes beginners to explore whisky.

Edinburgh Celebrations and Upcoming Release Plans

SMWS hosted an evening celebration on September 23 at its 28 Queen Street Members' Room in Edinburgh, a venue established in 1983. The festivities commenced with a gong bath sound experience guided by Jo McCoy of Blissness, followed by an equinox ritual and guided tasting. The venue will also hold a specialized tasting event titled "Light Side, Dark Side: An Autumn Equinox Whisky Journey" on October 15.

The Society plans to build out the celebration in the coming years by exploring partnerships with distilleries and tourism organizations. Additionally, SMWS anticipates releasing approximately 100 single malt whiskies and limited-edition expressions before year-end, featuring a broader selection of peated and sherry-matured releases.

📅 Publication Date: 2026-09-10

🔗 Source: The Whiskey Wash