Edinburgh's Scotch Whisky Experience has added another accolade to its trophy cabinet, after being named Whisky Visitor Attraction of choice at this year's Icons of Whisky awards.

The five-star visitor attraction fought off strong competition from distillery visitor centres across Scotland, including some of the world's most famous Whisky brands, to take the top prize.

Now in its tenth year, the annual awards were introduced by leading industry publication, Whisky Magazine, to recognise and celebrate the people and places behind the greatest Whiskies in the world. Previous winners of the award include Glenfiddich Distillery Visitor Centre, the Speyside Cooperage and Jack Daniel's Distillery Visitor Centre.

Susan Morrison, Director and General Manager of The Scotch Whisky Experience, commented: "We are thrilled to have been recognised by the Icons of Whisky awards as the best Whisky Visitor Attraction in Scotland. Since first opening our doors in 1988 we have welcomed millions of visitors to share our passion for Scotland's national drink. We have grown as a business over the years, constantly analysing and reacting to both the experience which we offer and the ever changing profile and expectations of our visitors.

"Over the last three years, we have invested over £3m in upgrading our facilities, bringing the visitor experience right up-to-date; an investment which has now been recognised by the Whisky industry itself."

Established almost 25 years ago, The Scotch Whisky Experience prides itself on providing an insight into the world of Scotch Whisky and bringing Scotland's national drink to life. Following its recent refurbishment, the attraction now offers an interactive and educational journey of discovery into the heritage, appreciation and production of Scotch Whisky.

Over the past year, the Whisky venue has also been awarded Best Visitor Experience by the Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions (ASVA), as well as making it to the finals of the Scottish Thistle Awards in the Best Shopping Experience category.

Susan continued: "I would like to take the opportunity to thank our team, whose passion and enthusiasm has made this achievement possible. As we enter our 25th year of operation, we will continue to listen to customer feedback, to ensure we maintain our position as Scotland's top Whisky attraction."