Company:
The Glenlivet
Job:
International Brand Ambassador
Website:
theglenlivet.com
How long have you been working in the whisky industry?
I joined Campbell Distillers, then the Scotch Whisky arm of Pernod Ricard in June 1998. Sold my first case of whisky though in July 1987 while working for a family owned Cash & Carry(Iannotti Bros.) based in Ayr in south west Scotland.
What has been your biggest career highlight to date?
I remember being very nervous standing up to present at Yale University when I suddenly thought who had been there before me. The global launch of The Glenlivet XXV in Taiwan is up there also. In the role I do there is always something new whether its travelling around the world or hosting visits in Scotland, there is a highlight around every corner.
Can you remember your first dram, and indeed what it was?
The first dram….that was a long time ago, I wish I could remember it. The big moment came in 1998 and my first visit to Aberlour and understanding the true potential of Single Malt. The Glenlivet is where my heart lies today but I will always have a soft spot for Aberlour.
What does whisky mean to you?
Whisky is my daily life, I am a whisky fan who has been very lucky to end up doing what I do. As it is for any proud Scot, Whisky is an icon of Scotland and to be associated with a whisky such as The Glenlivet means a huge amount to me. My family is the only thing that ranks higher.
Where would you like to see yourself in five years time?
Five years is a long time but if I am still doing what I am doing today life will have been very good to me. Nothing will replace watching the smiles on peoples face as they enjoy our whiskies wherever that may be, it’s the ultimate job satisfaction.
What was your last dram?
The Glenlivet 1964 Cellar Collection at Whisky Live in London. For me the finest bottling to come from The Glenlivet.
Do you have a favourite whisky and food pairing combination?
Scottish smoked salmon with The Glenlivet 12yo. The sweetness of the salmon works perfectly with the zesty, fruity notes of The Glenlivet.
What’s your favourite time and place to enjoy a dram?
Relaxing at home in the evening will always be my first choice closely followed by the Guardians Library at The Glenlivet Distillery. Whisky is such a social drink it just needs a bottle and a few friends and anywhere will work.
What do you think is going to be the next big thing on the whisky horizon?
With some many other countries now producing whiskies along with the micro-distilling boom in the US we are going to see an explosion of new styles and variations of whisky. If anything this will mean that the Scottish distillers will have to try even harder to maintain their position as the finest in the world. As we all strive harder the consumer will be the winner.
What’s the one dram you couldn’t live without?
My favourite of The Glenlivet core range is the 18yo as anyone who knows me will testify but the 12yo offer peace of mind, it doesn’t matter where I am in the world I know I will find it in a bar somewhere.
Many thanks to Ian Logan. Who will be the next Whisky Insider? Click back soon to find out!