4 April 2018

Whisky Insiders Interview No.87 - Billy Walker



Company:
The GlenAllachie Distillers Co. Ltd

Job:
Master Distiller

Website:
theglenallachie.com



 
How long have you been working in the whisky industry?
I’ve now been working in the industry for around 47 years!
 
What has been your biggest career highlight to date?
Acquiring the BenRiach, GlenDronach and Glenglassaugh distilleries was stellar, but being given the opportunity to acquire GlenAllachie and sculpt our own canvas is so amazing.
 
Can you remember your first dram, and indeed what it was?
I certainly can. My first dram was a Ballentine’s, which was and still is in the champions league of blended Scotch whisky.
 
What does whisky mean to you?
Scotch whisky is an absolute passion and being in the position to craft brands has been such a privilege.
 
Where would you like to see yourself in five years’ time?
Still blending and still alive!
 
What was your last dram?
My last dram was a trial sample of the new 12 Year Old GlenAllachie, which will be launch later this year. It’s quite simply stunning!
 
Do you have a favourite whisky and food pairing combination?
My favourite has to be a single malt with venison.
 
What’s your favourite time and place to enjoy a dram?
Any time after 6pm and in any location.
 
What do you think is going to be the next big thing on the whisky horizon?
Confusing my aspirations with reality, I hope the GlenAllachie range of single malts, which will have all the hallmarks of quality.
 
What’s the one dram you couldn’t live without?
The next gentlemen’s measure of the GlenAllachie 1978 sherry cask, part of the 50th anniversary single cask releases.
 
Many thanks to Billy Walker. Who will be our next Whisky Insider? Click back soon to find out!