Mixing as easily with cool jazz as it does with the bared soul, whisky is an elixir for all seasons and every passion. Variously described as a great, potent and princely drink, in some cultures it’s lauded with names like aqua vitae, the water of life.

Sipped by kings and rogues, imbibed by spies and poseurs, over the centuries whisky has been associated with everything from high culture to the decidedly low brow, been a form of currency and traversed emotions from bonhomie to conflict.

And early September offers another excuse for whisky devotees to celebrate their love of this noble beverage. The 2011 Sydney Whisky Fair is set to showcase fine whiskies and spirits from over 20 of the world’s distilleries. Over two days at the Oak Barrel on Elizabeth St, a veritable Wonka-esque paradise for connoisseurs of fine spirits, this year’s offerings include exquisite single malts from the highlands and islands of Scotland and seductive golden rum distilled on the banks of the Demerara River in Guyana.

So whether you’re partial to Scotland’s best, or prefer their equivalents from nearby Ireland or as distant as Japan and Tasmania, this event will certainly have your measure.

And if you’re keen to learn a more about your favourite tipple, or one you’ve savoured for the first time, there’ll also be a series of master classes running across the two days. With a limited number of places available, sessions will be held in the ‘Dram Den’ tasting room and will explore the many and varied pleasures shared by whisky lovers around the world .

So see off the last of the winter chill, and celebrate the first warmth of spring by heading to the Oak Barrel and getting amongst some truly memorable whiskies and spirits.

Where: Oak Barrel, 152 Elizabeth Street, Sydney
Hours: Fri 2 Sep 5pm – 8pm | Sat 3 Sep noon – 3pm
Price: $60 per session for non-members, $50 per session for members.
Details:  sydneywhiskyfair.com.au/