A Cape Town tasting room turned tradition on its head this week, hosting a whisky experience designed exclusively for women – and challenging long-held perceptions about who traditionally enjoys it.
Hosted by Solera by Mothercity Liquor, the inaugural Cask & Company evening brought together a room full of women to explore five curated whiskies, each paired with chocolate.
“We are hosting an entire room of only women that will be tasting whisky,” said Tiana Pena from Solera.
“It’s our first Cask & Company evening, and we plan on doing one every single month.”
While whisky has traditionally been seen as a male-dominated space, the event leaned into a growing shift - both globally and locally - towards more inclusive, experience-driven drinking cultures.
Guests were guided through each pour in an intimate, social setting that blended education with indulgence. Beyond whisky, the venue regularly hosts tequila tastings, cocktail masterclasses, and weekly curated experiences, positioning itself as more than just a retail space.
Central to the evening was a clear message: women not only enjoy whisky, but they also play a significant role in shaping it.
“Women love whisky, and we’ve actually got the palate for it,” Tiana noted. “Some of the best whiskies in the world are made by women.”
The event also signals a broader lifestyle trend in Cape Town, where consumers are increasingly seeking out curated, social experiences rather than simply purchasing products.
With plans to expand into monthly themed tastings and a First Friday-style night market, Cask & Company is set to become a regular fixture on the city’s social calendar.
For now, the message is simple: whisky is no longer a boys’ club, and Cape Town’s women are claiming their seat at the table.
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