Name: David Livingstone
Company: Ardnahoe Distillery
Job: Distillery Manager
Website: ardnahoedistillery.com
Socials: ardnahoedistillery

How long have you been working in the whisky industry?
I’ve spent 25 years in the industry. My first job was as a maltings operator at Laphroaig. From there, I gained hands-on experience in every stage of production — from mashing and distilling to warehousing and maturation — before moving into management.

I was involved at the very beginning of Ardnahoe, before production even started, helping with process setup and the final stages of the build. I then spent two years on Arran as manager of Lochranza Distillery, before returning to Islay to eventually take on the role of manager at Ardnahoe.

What has been your biggest career highlight to date?
Seeing the first spirit run into the safe at Ardnahoe is a day I’ll never forget. Jim McEwan, Fraser Hughes and I watched and waited as the heat built and the temperature began to rise. We were all poised in anticipation — and when the spirit finally began to flow, the look on our faces said it all. It was a truly magical moment.

Can you remember your first dram, and indeed what it was?
It was probably a blend in my younger days — Teachers or White Horse, most likely. Those were very early days for single malts!

What does whisky mean to you?
Being a third-generation distiller, born and bred on Islay, fills me with pride. Both my father and grandfather made whisky, and to follow in their footsteps is a true dream come true.

Where would you like to see yourself in five years’ time?
My career so far has allowed me to develop so many different skills, experience a range of working styles and meet some fantastic people.

My dream from the very start was to manage a distillery — and little did I know it would be somewhere as special as Ardnahoe, surrounded by passionate people and producing exceptional whisky. My dream has truly been fulfilled!

What was your last dram?
The cask strength release from Ardnahoe — a 5-year-old fully matured in first-fill bourbon casks. A truly fantastic dram that showcases the perfect balance between spirit and wood.

Do you have a favourite whisky and food pairing?
I must admit, I have a sweet tooth — and more often than not, a fine dram is accompanied by a bit of chocolate!

What’s your favourite time and place to enjoy a dram?
In the evening, sitting at home with my wife Claire — no TV or phones, just good conversation and good whisky. The way it should be!

What do you think is going to be the next big thing on the whisky horizon?
Ardnahoe is definitely a rising star. Since releasing our first whisky last year, its popularity has grown rapidly. Even as a young spirit, it already showcases a remarkable depth of character and gives us a very exciting glimpse into the future.

What’s the one dram you couldn’t live without?
I’ve got quite a collection at home, and the choice often depends on my mood. But honestly, the best whisky is the one in your hand — when you’re surrounded by great company and making memories together!

Many thanks to David Livingstone. Who will be our next Whisky Insider? Click back soon to find out!