WHAT IS LET'S OPEN UP OVER WHISKY?
Let's Open Up Over Whisky is a Swedish, non-profit initiative that works to foster a more inclusive whisky community. We believe that whisky, at its best, is about curiosity, conversation and shared experiences – and that everyone should feel welcome to be a part of it.
The initiative was founded in the summer of 2021 after a conversation between representatives from the whisky industry who shared a common concern: that parts of the whisky world were still marked by barriers, stereotypes and unspoken norms that made some feel less welcome than others. What began as a simple meeting soon developed into a broader and longer-term commitment to change.
Today, Let's Open Up Over Whisky meets whisky consumers, clubs and industry representatives at festivals and events around Sweden. Each year, the initiative also awards a scholarship to individuals who have shown a strong commitment to inclusive work within the Swedish whisky community.
Through conversation, visibility and education, we want to contribute to a whisky culture where respect, openness and responsibility are at the center.
Our vision
Our vision is to contribute to an inclusive whisky community — for him, for her, for everyone — where whisky enthusiasts feel welcome to raise a glass together, regardless of background, experience or identity.
Our purpose
Our purpose is to educate, inspire and support a whisky culture that is grounded in joy, humility and responsibility. We strive to create safe and respectful spaces for open conversation, where different perspectives are welcomed and where reflection is encouraged rather than avoided.
Our values
Let's Open Up Over Whisky is guided by the following core values:
Equality – all people deserve equal respect and equal opportunities within the whisky community
Community – whisky is something we share, not something that separates us
Affinity – long-term change happens together, not individually
Responsibility – both towards each other and towards the culture we are helping to shape
How we work
We don't claim to have all the answers, nor do we expect individuals or organizations to be "done" with their work on inclusion. Instead, we encourage reflection, dialogue, and incremental development. Being part of Let's Open Up Over Whisky is about supporting a direction — toward a more open and welcoming whisky culture — rather than meeting a set standard.
Our work includes public conversations, partnerships with clubs and industry players, participation in events and forums, and ongoing efforts to highlight good examples of inclusive practices. We also believe that the courage to ask difficult questions, when done with care and respect, is a necessary part of meaningful change.
A long-term commitment
We see Let's Open Up Over Whisky as a long-term journey. Change takes time, and it starts close to home — in our own environments, organizations, and communities. By continuing to listen, learn, and engage with others, we believe that a more inclusive whisky culture is both possible and worth striving for.
This is not the end of the journey. It is the beginning.