Name: Iain J McAlister
Company: Glen Scotia Distillery
Job: Distillery Manager
Website: glenscotia.com

How long have you been working in the whisky industry?
I have been working in the whisky industry, and at Glen Scotia Distillery, for nine fantastic and very busy years.

What has been your biggest career highlight to date?
My biggest career highlight was Glen Scotia Double Cask winning Campbeltown Whisky of the Year at the World Whisky Awards in 2016. It marked the beginning of a series of great achievements for the distillery and for the Loch Lomond Group.

Can you remember your first dram, and what was it?
My first dram was a Laphroaig. I can’t remember the specific age, only that it was rather good!

What does whisky mean to you?
The whisky industry means a great deal to me, as I have witnessed Glen Scotia’s rise from relative obscurity to becoming a strong and visible presence in the historic and wonderful wee town of Campbeltown. Whisky has been both my life and my passion for some time now, and I can only see that continuing as Glen Scotia steadily grows in prominence with visitors and customers alike.

Where would you like to see yourself in five years’ time?
Exactly where I am now — Distillery Manager at Glen Scotia. It doesn’t get any better than that for me.

What was your last dram?
My last dram was a rather lovely 1989 Glen Scotia from a second-fill sherry hogshead, resting in our dunnage warehouse. It had a rich, well-developed nose and a beautiful palate of ripe tropical fruits — very enjoyable indeed.

Do you have a favourite whisky and food pairing?
Scotland is renowned worldwide for its whisky and seafood, so it’s no surprise that Glen Scotia 2009 Medium Peated, at 20.0 ppm, pairs beautifully with Kintyre Smokehouse smoked salmon. It’s a delicious combination.

What’s your favourite time and place to enjoy a dram?
My ideal time to enjoy a dram is in good company, usually with a group during a tour and tasting at Glen Scotia Distillery. It’s a great opportunity to discuss the whisky, along with the components and technical expertise that go into making a great dram.

What do you think will be the next big thing on the whisky horizon?
There’s so much to consider, but I believe that many lesser-known brands will begin to make a significant impact, driven by the quality of their whiskies. Single malts will continue to go from strength to strength on the global market. Innovation will always be the catalyst — with leaders pushing boundaries and others following close behind.

What’s the one dram you couldn’t live without?
I have a real affinity for Glen Scotia Double Cask and love to unwind with this special dram on a Friday night.

Many thanks to Iain J. McAlister. Who will be our next Whisky Insider? Click back soon to find out!