A WHISKY archive in Menstrie will open its doors next month, when there will be a rare opportunity to see the biggest drinks industry vault for free.

To mark International Scotch Day, held on February 8 for the second time this year, Diageo will be opening the liquid library to allow Scotch enthusiasts and fans to take part in the global celebrations.

Ronan Beirne, global brand marketing director at the drinks company, said: “Last year we launched International Scotch Day and its huge success proved what we at Diageo already knew – the world loves Scotch.

“This year is going to be even bigger, with celebrations taking place globally, from Scotch whisky tastings to opening the doors to Diageo’s archive in Scotland, free passes to distillery visitor centres and celebrity events in cities from Manila to Johannesburg.”

Ewan Gunn, global Scotch whisky master at Diageo, added: “Scotch is made all the way across Scotland - from the romantic west coast, through the whisky heartland of Speyside, to the vibrant urban central belt of Scotland, and though it is made here, it belongs to the world and is truly the world’s favourite whisky.

“Hosting International Scotch Day for a second year shows how confident we are about the popularity of this truly international drink.”

The collection in the Wee County contains more than 5,000 bottles and will be open for free on Thursday, February 8.

Tours are reserved for the first 100 to register, express an interest by emailing archive.menstrie@diageo.com and find out the exact time slots.