Events

2025-12-13

FULLY BOOKED - 13 December 20:00 - Whisky Tasting

Discover the Art of Whisky Tasting with Patrick!

Step into a world of flavor and experience during an exclusive whisky tasting with Patrick. Be surprised by 7 exceptional whiskies, carefully selected to take you on an unforgettable journey of taste.

During this tasting you will learn:

  • The art of tasting – what are you tasting and why?
  • How casks influence flavors and what this means for your glass of whisky.
  • How to fully enjoy every sip.

Price per person: €45,-
Please note: Reservations are required!
Book your spot via patrick@hotelfidder.nl

Whether you are a whisky connoisseur or just beginning your discovery, this tasting is a unique opportunity to take your passion to the next level. Cheers to an evening filled with stories, knowledge, and delightful whiskies!

FULLY BOOKED - 13 December 20:00 - Whisky Tasting

2025-12-19

End-of-Year Whisky Tastings – End the Year in Style!

The year is coming to an end, but at Patrick’s Whisky Bar we’re going all out one last time.
This final weekend of 2025, we’re hosting three exclusive whisky tastings – your chance to close the year with exceptional drams, new knowledge, and great company.


What to Expect?

  • 7 unique whiskies per tasting, carefully selected
  • Learn the art of tasting and uncover hidden flavors
  • Everything about casks, maturation, and aromas
  • A tasting full of stories, conviviality, and inspiration

📅 Dates:

  • Tasting 1: 19 December, 20:00 – The Peat Monsters
  • Tasting 2: 20 December, 15:00 – SMWS – Warm-Up
  • Tasting 3: 20 December, 20:00 – SMWS – Old & Rare

🔒 Reservations required: patrick@hotelfidder.nl

Whether you attend just one tasting or all three – you don’t want to miss this.
End 2025 with a toast full of flavor, experience, and great stories.

End-of-Year Whisky Tastings – End the Year in Style!

2025-12-19

STILL 2 SPOTS - 19 December 20:00 - End of Year Whisky Tasting Part 1 - The Peat Monsters

Discover the World of Peated Whiskies with Patrick!

Step into the smoky, peat-infused world of whisky during this exclusive Peat Monsters Tasting with Patrick. Be surprised by 7 peated whiskies, carefully selected to take you on an unforgettable flavor journey full of strength and character.

During this tasting, you will learn:

  • The art of tasting – how to tame the peat and smoke in your glass.
  • How casks and peat smoke come together to create unique flavors.
  • How to fully enjoy these true peat monsters.

Price per person: €45
Note: Reservations are required!
Book your spot via patrick@hotelfidder.nl

Whether you’re a seasoned Islay fan or just curious about the smoky side of whisky – this tasting will take your whisky experience to the next level. Cheers to an evening filled with peat, stories, and bold whiskies!

STILL 2 SPOTS - 19 December 20:00 - End of Year Whisky Tasting Part 1 - The Peat Monsters

2025-12-20

December 20 15:00 - End of Year Whisky Tasting Part 2 - Warming Up

Warm Up for Old & Rare – Whisky Tasting with Patrick!

Get ready for the ultimate finale of the year during this special Warm-Up Tasting for the Old & Rare. Patrick will take you on a flavorful journey through 7 exceptional whiskies, carefully selected to get you in the mood for the legendary Old & Rare tasting.

During this tasting, you will learn:

  • The art of tasting – what do you taste and why?
  • How casks influence flavors and which hints prepare you for old & rare whiskies.
  • How to fully enjoy every sip and prepare your palate for truly exclusive drams.

Price per person: €45
Note: Reservations are required!
Book your spot via patrick@hotelfidder.nl

Whether you already have a ticket for Old & Rare, or simply want to enjoy a wonderful selection of whiskies – this tasting is your chance to warm up and close the year in style. Cheers to an afternoon filled with stories, knowledge, and exceptional whiskies!

December 20 15:00 - End of Year Whisky Tasting Part 2 - Warming Up

2025-12-20

FULLY BOOKED - 20 December 20:00 - End of Year Whisky Tasting Part 3 - Old & Rare

SAVE THE DATE

The tasting of tastings is back…

On 20 December at 20:00, we’ll close the whisky year in style with you during the Old & Rare Tasting at Patrick’s Whisky Bar in Zwolle!

Old & Rare – the tasting that needs no introduction.
By now, it’s a tradition: ending the year with exceptional whiskies and great company, in a place where every drop breathes character.

Tickets are not yet available, but keep an eye on www.smws.eu – we’ll let you know the moment sales go live.

Set a reminder, because this is one you truly don’t want to miss.

FULLY BOOKED - 20 December 20:00 - End of Year Whisky Tasting Part 3 - Old & Rare

January 3, 20:00 - Discover the Art of Whisky Tasting – Gordon & MacPhail Edition

Start the new year right with an exclusive whisky tasting full of depth and craftsmanship.
Patrick presents seven expressive bottlings from the famous Connoisseurs Choice Cask Strength series by Gordon & MacPhail – each whisky showcasing their distillery at its finest.

During this special evening, you will taste:

  • G&M C.C. Braes of Glenlivet 1998
  • G&M C.C. Macduff 2006
  • G&M C.C. Balmenach 2009
  • G&M C.C. Inchgower 1998
  • G&M C.C. Benriach 2005
  • G&M C.C. Teaninich 12Y 2009 – Exclusive NL Bottling

Let yourself be taken on a journey through the Scottish regions, with whiskies that perfectly combine strength, balance, and complexity. Patrick will tell you about the influence of casks, maturation, and the distinctive character of Gordon & MacPhail’s artisanal approach.

💡 During this tasting you will learn:

  • What Cask Strength truly means in taste and structure.
  • How Gordon & MacPhail captures the soul of each distillery.
  • How to further develop your palate as a whisky enthusiast.

Price per person: € 45,-
Note: Reservation is required!
📩 Reserve via patrick@hotelfidder.nl

An evening for connoisseurs, full of stories, character, and world-class whiskies.
Cheers to a powerful start to the new year! 🥃

January 3, 20:00 - Discover the Art of Whisky Tasting – Gordon & MacPhail Edition

2026-01-09

January 9, 20:00 - Whisky Tasting with Patrick – Experience Whisky in Zwolle

Looking for a unique whisky tasting in Zwolle?
Experience an evening full of flavor, stories, and discovery during an exclusive whisky tasting with Patrick at Patrick’s Whisky Bar in Hotel Fidder.

During this whisky tasting, you will taste 7 carefully selected whiskies, each with its own character and story. You will not only learn what you taste, but especially why you taste it.

What can you expect?

  • Explanation of aromas, taste, and finish
  • Insight into the effect of cask aging on whisky
  • Tips to optimally taste whisky
  • Personal stories and background for each whisky

Whether you are a beginner whisky drinker or a long-time enthusiast: this tasting is educational, relaxed, and above all, very flavorful.

Price: € 45,- per person
Reservation required
Sign up via: patrick@hotelfidder.nl

Are you looking for an original outing, a whisky gift, or a pleasant evening with friends or colleagues? Then this whisky tasting is the perfect choice.

January 9, 20:00 - Whisky Tasting with Patrick – Experience Whisky in Zwolle

2026-01-10

January 10, 20:00 - Malt Stories: Peat Experience

🖤 Peat Experience – Dive into the world of smoky whiskies

Are you a fan of that mysterious campfire aroma in your glass? During this exclusive Peat Experience, Patrick takes you along the rugged coasts and smoky secrets of peated whiskies.

You will taste 7 carefully selected peated whiskies and discover:

  • what peat exactly does to flavor and aroma
  • why Islay is so famous for its smoke
  • how intensity differs per distillery
  • and why peat enthusiasts are often true fanatics

From softly smoky to intensely medicinal: each whisky tells its own story.

💶 Price per person: € 45,-
📩 Reservation required: patrick@hotelfidder.nl

For lovers of character, spice, and a long smoky finish.
Do you dare?

January 10, 20:00 - Malt Stories: Peat Experience

2026-01-16

January 16, 20:00 - Whisky and Cheese Tasting

A Flavorful Experience

Are you a lover of whisky and cheese? Then you can't miss this unique tasting! Harry Schonewille and Patrick Fidder have been combining their shared passion for flavor in a surprising culinary experience for years. Harry, an expert in cheeses and charcuterie, and Patrick, a whisky connoisseur through and through, together create a flavor explosion you won't soon forget.

During this tasting, Harry and Patrick take you on a journey through the world of flavor combinations. Think of whisky in harmony with cheese, sausage, honey, beer, nuts, and more. Discover how these flavors complement, enhance, and even transform each other. But the best part? Nothing is set in stone! Patrick chooses the perfect whisky on the spot to match the delicacies Harry brings. And sometimes? Sometimes it's just a little unexpected.

You will enjoy 7 special whiskies, combined with carefully selected delicacies. Be surprised, experience how flavors challenge each other, and be part of this unique culinary experience.

Participation: € 69.50 per person
Reservation: Send an email to patrick@hotelfidder.nl

Don't miss this chance and join the tasting!

January 16, 20:00 - Whisky and Cheese Tasting

2026-01-17

January 17, 20:00 - The Balvenie Tasting with Tony van Rooijen

✨ SAVE THE DATE – 17 January ✨
The Balvenie Tasting with Tony van Rooijen

On Saturday, 17 January, we once again welcome Tony van Rooijen to Patrick’s Whisky Bar in Zwolle for an exclusive whisky tasting, this time fully dedicated to The Balvenie – a distillery renowned for its craftsmanship, refinement, and rich flavors.

Which treasures will Tony pour?
That remains a surprise… but you can count on a line-up rarely experienced in a single evening. Expect a flavour journey full of character, stories, and atmosphere – as only Tony can bring.

Details:
📅 Date: Saturday, 17 January
📍 Location: Patrick’s Whisky Bar, Zwolle
💶 Price per person: € 60
⚠️ Reservation required (limited spots available)!

Mark the date in your calendar and reserve your spot via patrick@hotelfidder.nl – this is an evening you don’t want to miss!

January 17, 20:00 - The Balvenie Tasting with Tony van Rooijen

2026-02-27

February 27 to March 1 - Advanced Whisky Ambassador

The Advanced Whisky Ambassador teaches you in detail what Scotch whisky is, how it is produced, how the flavors and aromas are created, and why it is the most diverse drink in the world.
…and more!

The Advanced Whisky Ambassador is a multi-day course and the logical follow-up course to The Whisky Ambassador. The course goes into detail on the following topics:

  • Malting
  • Milling
  • Mashing
  • Fermentation
  • Distillation
  • Maturation
  • Blending and Bottling
  • Sensory analysis

When discussing the above topics, we delve into the processes and why they are important in whisky production. The central question is always: how do the processes contribute to the production of whisky and the aromas and flavors of whisky? 

In addition to theoretical knowledge, the focus is also on learning through experience. During the course, we will work with aromas, we will of course taste, and we will visit a distillery. 

The course is taught by Bob Wenting, see his website for more info:
Comedus Opleidingen

February 27 to March 1 - Advanced Whisky Ambassador

2026-02-28

February 28 20:00 - Learn to really taste whisky – Tasting with explanation

Do you want to better understand what makes whisky so special? During this whisky tasting, you will not only learn what you taste, but especially why.

You will be presented with 7 beautiful whiskies and discover how factors such as wood type, age, and alcohol percentage influence taste and aroma.

During this tasting you will learn:

  • How to taste whisky professionally
  • What cask types do to color and aroma
  • How to recognize and name flavors
  • How your preference develops

Perfect for those who want to deepen their whisky knowledge, but also very accessible for beginners.

Price: €45,-
Advance reservation required
Register via patrick@hotelfidder.nl

February 28 20:00 - Learn to really taste whisky – Tasting with explanation

2026-03-07

March 7 - BWWZ Annual Dinner & Auction – exclusive for members

The annual highlight of Blue Water Whisky Club Zwolle!
On March 7th, we gather for an atmospheric dinner, good company, and of course, our now legendary auction. An evening full of beautiful bottles, surprises, and camaraderie with fellow enthusiasts.

👉 Exclusive for members
🥃 Dinner & auction
🎯 Chance for special bottlings
✨ Not a member yet? Inquire about membership and join the club

Don't miss this club classic!

March 7 - BWWZ Annual Dinner & Auction – exclusive for members

2026-03-14

1 SPOT LEFT - March 14, 20:00 - Patrick’s Birthday & St. Patrick’s Day Tasting

🎉 Patrick’s Birthday & St. Patrick’s Day Tasting – March 14! ☘️

On March 15, I’m celebrating another trip around the sun – and we’ll kick off the party a day early, Saturday, March 14, with an exceptional whisky tasting at Patrick’s Whisky Bar in Zwolle. A double reason to celebrate, as St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner!

What to expect?
An evening filled with unique whiskies (the line-up remains a surprise for now), captivating stories, toasts, and the warm atmosphere of Patrick’s Whisky Bar.

Details:
📅 Date: Saturday, March 14
🕗 Time: 8:00 PM
💶 Price: € 60 p.p.
⚠️ Booking is required – limited spots available!

Join the celebration!
Reserve your spot at patrick@hotelfidder.nl and raise your glass with us for my birthday and St. Patrick’s Day!

1 SPOT LEFT - March 14, 20:00 - Patrick’s Birthday & St. Patrick’s Day Tasting

2026-03-20

March 20, 20:00 - Introduction to Whisky

Really Taste Whisky – Tasting with Explanation

Do you want to better understand what makes whisky so special? During this whisky tasting, you will not only learn what you taste, but especially why.

You will be presented with 7 beautiful whiskies and discover how factors such as wood type, age, and alcohol percentage influence taste and aroma.

During this tasting you will learn:

  • How to taste whisky professionally
  • What cask types do to color and aroma
  • How to recognize and name flavors
  • How your preference develops

Perfect for those who want to deepen their whisky knowledge, but also very accessible for beginners.

Price: €45,-
Reservation required in advance
Register via patrick@hotelfidder.nl

March 20, 20:00 - Introduction to Whisky

2026-04-03

3 April 20:00 - Whisky and Cheese Tasting

A Flavorful Experience

Are you a lover of whisky and cheese? Then you can't miss this unique tasting! Harry Schonewille and Patrick Fidder have been combining their shared passion for flavor in a surprising culinary experience for years. Harry, an expert in cheeses and charcuterie, and Patrick, a whisky connoisseur through and through, together create a flavor explosion you won't soon forget.

During this tasting, Harry and Patrick take you on a journey through the world of flavor combinations. Think of whisky in harmony with cheese, sausage, honey, beer, nuts, and more. Discover how these flavors complement, enhance, and even transform each other. But the best part? Nothing is set in stone! Patrick selects the perfect whisky on the spot to accompany the delicacies Harry brings. And sometimes? Sometimes it's just a bit unexpected.

You will enjoy 7 special whiskies, combined with carefully selected delicacies. Let yourself be surprised, experience how flavors challenge each other, and be part of this unique culinary experience.

Participation: € 69.50 per person
Reservations: Send an email to patrick@hotelfidder.nl

Don't miss this chance and join the tasting!

3 April 20:00 - Whisky and Cheese Tasting

2026-04-04

April 4, 20:00 - Malt Stories: The Art of Compass Box

Sometimes you drink a whisky.
Sometimes you read one.

During this special Malt Stories evening, we dive into the world of Compass Box – a house that doesn't just blend whisky, but composes it. No standard recipes here, but flavor architecture. No secrecy, but openness. Each glass tells a story.

Patrick takes you through 7 expressions of Compass Box, each with its own character, structure, and soul. You discover why Compass Box dares to break the rules, why blends here are often more exciting than single malts – and how transparency is the key to trust in your glass.

You hear stories about:

  • whisky as an art form
  • the balance between creativity and tradition
  • special cask choices and their influence
  • why "blend" is a badge of honor at Compass Box

From elegant and refined to deep and bold – each whisky is a chapter in a larger story.

💶 Price per person: € 45,-
📩 Reservation required via: patrick@hotelfidder.nl

Malt Stories is not a lesson.
It is an evening where taste speaks.

April 4, 20:00 - Malt Stories: The Art of Compass Box

2026-05-15

15 May 20:00 - Whisky Tasting

Discover the Art of Whisky Tasting with Patrick!

Step into the world of flavor and experience during an exclusive whisky tasting with Patrick. Be surprised by 7 special whiskies, carefully selected to take you on an unforgettable taste journey.

During this tasting, you will learn:
The art of tasting – what do you taste and why?
How casks influence flavors and what this means for your glass of whisky.
How to optimally enjoy every sip.

Price per person: € 45,-
Note: Reservation is required!
Reserve your spot via patrick@hotelfidder.nl

Whether you are a whisky connoisseur or just beginning to discover, this tasting is a unique opportunity to elevate your passion to a higher level. Cheers to an evening full of stories, knowledge, and delicious whiskies!

15 May 20:00 - Whisky Tasting

2026-07-04

July 4th 20:00 - Malt Stories: America in the Glass

Fourth of July Special Edition

Sometimes you taste whiskey.
Sometimes you taste freedom.

During this special Fourth of July edition of Malt Stories, we celebrate America as it was meant to be: with stories, fire in the glass, and warmth in the heart.

Patrick will take you through 7 characterful American whiskeys and talk about:

  • bourbon, rye, and their unmistakable soul
  • new charred oak as a flavor enhancer
  • sun, time, and temperature as maturation forces
  • and why American whiskey never whispers, but speaks

Expect sweet notes of vanilla and caramel, spicy herbs, smoky wood, and a long, glowing finish — just as America likes to present itself: grand, warm, and headstrong.

💶 Price per person: € 45,-
📩 Reservation required via: patrick@hotelfidder.nl

Raise a glass to independence
— glass by glass, story by story.

July 4th 20:00 - Malt Stories: America in the Glass

2026-10-10

10 October 20:00 - Malt Stories: All 10

Sometimes you taste whisky.
Sometimes you taste time.

During this special Malt Stories evening, everything revolves around aging, patience, and character.
This edition is simple and exciting at the same time: all whiskies are 10 years old.

Patrick takes you through 7 whiskies with age, depth, and a story and talks about:

  • what time truly does to a whisky
  • when aging becomes magic (…and when it’s too much)
  • the difference between youthful power and mature elegance
  • how wood, tranquility, and environment shape flavor

You taste no haste — only layers of vanilla, fruit, wood, spices, and sometimes smoke.
Whiskies that don’t shout, but speak.

💶 Price per person: € 45,-
📩 Reservation required via: patrick@hotelfidder.nl

Malt Stories is not a tasting.
It is time in a glass.

10 October 20:00 - Malt Stories: All 10

2026-10-24

24 October 20:00 - Introduction to Whisky

Really Taste Whisky – Tasting with Explanation

Do you want to better understand what makes whisky so special? During this whisky tasting, you will not only learn what you taste but especially why.

You will be presented with 7 beautiful whiskies and discover how factors such as wood type, age, and alcohol percentage influence taste and aroma.

During this tasting you will learn:

  • How to taste whisky professionally
  • What cask types do to color and aroma
  • How to recognize and name flavors
  • How your preference develops

Perfect for those who want to deepen their whisky knowledge, but also very accessible for beginners.

Price: €45,-
Advance reservation required
Sign up via patrick@hotelfidder.nl

24 October 20:00 - Introduction to Whisky

2026-11-07

SAVE THE DATE - Fidder’s Festival #9 – Saturday, November 7, 2026

The eighth edition is still to come,
but we're secretly looking ahead a bit... 😉

Because after each year full of special drinks, delightful encounters, and beautiful stories, we know one thing for sure: Fidder's Festival continues!

✨ Save the date:
Saturday, November 7, 2026 – Fidder's Festival #9!

The ninth edition also promises to be a celebration full of whisky, beer, spirits, bites, and music, with familiar faces and new discoveries.

🎟️ Early Bird Tickets will go on sale during 2026 –
and believe us: they always sell out lightning fast.

Stay tuned via our socials or newsletter,
because after edition 8, we’ll immediately move on to the next round.

Fidder’s Festival #9 – Saturday, November 7, 2026
📍 Hotel Fidder | Patrick's Whisky Bar | Zwolle

SAVE THE DATE - Fidder’s Festival #9 – Saturday, November 7, 2026