Stewart Hunter Laing, founder of independent bottler Hunter Laing & Co and the Islay-based Ardnahoe Distillery, has passed away at the age of 79.

Stewart worked in the Scotch whisky industry for more than 60 years. A period of apprenticeship as a young man at Bruichladdich Distillery on Islay was followed by further commercial training at Ballantine’s.

The bulk of his career, however, was spent at Douglas Laing & Co Ltd, the blending and bottling company established by his father, Fred Snr. While raising a young family with his wife, Yvonne, he spent many fruitful decades managing the company alongside his father and brother, Fred, selling blended whisky around the world before turning his focus to single casks at the turn of the millennium. Among other achievements, they created the highly regarded Old Malt Cask brand. He was particularly proud that the company received the Queen’s Award for Export Achievement in 1990.

In 2013, Stewart took the decision to establish Hunter Laing & Co Ltd with his sons. Although they initially continued as an independent bottler, there remained one great ambition to fulfil. At an age when many of his peers had retired, Stewart remained actively involved in the construction of Islay’s ninth distillery, Ardnahoe, which commenced operations in 2018.

Stewart was a Keeper of the Quaich before being inducted as a Master in 2022. He was also a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Distillers.

One of the final milestones of his career came on 10 May 2024, when he spent the day in Edinburgh signing bottles of Ardnahoe’s inaugural release — his own whisky. In this way, the closing chapter of his career was also among its proudest moments.

Commenting on the news, a spokesperson for Hunter Laing & Co, said: “It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of our founder, Stewart Hunter Laing. Stewart passed away on Wednesday night at the age of 79, peacefully and surrounded by his family. He bore the health challenges of his later years with characteristic stoicism and good humour, drawing comfort from those closest to him. Until the end, he remained engaged in the business, receiving regular updates and offering advice. His interest in football, particularly his lifelong support of Queen’s Park, provided a welcome distraction.”

Stewart is survived by his wife of 49 years, Yvonne; his children, Scott, Andrew and Anna; and his grandchildren, Alice and Penny.