Kirstie began her career in Chemistry, completing an honours degree followed by a PHD in Analytical Chemistry, then joining Port Dundas Distillery as a Laboratory Analyst. Following a move to Chivas Brothers as a Quality Analyst, Kirstie’s role expanded to include sensory analysis and approving all blended whiskies and rum products. Her excellent palate and nose were soon recognised, leading to a new position managing the laboratory, working alongside the Company Chemist.
Roles at Allied Distillers followed before Kirstie joined Burns Stewart Distillers initially working as a Blender, carrying out sensory analysis on all whisky, from new make spirit to mature Scotch Whisky, cask selection and developing new expressions. Wanting to expand her remit, Kirstie then became a Global Brand Ambassador for Burns Stewart, connecting with consumers and trade customers and sharing her passion for whisky. This role took her all over the world, sharing her experience with existing whisky drinkers and helping to introduce new consumers to the category.
Kirstie then took roles at Distell and Halewood as Master Blender, leading blending teams, developing new products and limited editions, making cask selections, managing the inventory profile and acting as a Brand Ambassador.
In 2023, Kirstie joined the team at Whyte & Mackay, working alongside Master Whisky Makers Richard Paterson OBE and Gregg Glass. Kirstie leads the whisky making team in Glasgow which today includes Kirsty Hodge, Joe Ricketts and Nick Wilson.
Kirstie is the guardian of new product development, constantly seeking inspiration in the whiskies we develop. During Kirstie’s tenure, the company has seen the release of Jura 15-year-old sherry cask and the highly sought after Jura Perspective No.01. Kirstie is a master of the technical craft of whisky making, overseeing every expression that passes through the whisky making room at our Glasgow headquarters.
Quality is still at the heart of what Kirstie does, and has an influence on the casks she buys, selects and assesses to how she looks after new make spirit. She is also in great demand to share her experiences and expertise at tastings and events across the world, known for her down to earth personality, passion and knowledge.
Kirstie’s belief is that nobody knows everything about whisky and she loves knowing that there are still so many things to discover.
Favourite Whisky memory
“As a teenager, my friends and I went away for the first time together to Islay. In many ways it was a terrible holiday – we were camping in a tiny tent in the middle of nowhere and the rain didn’t let up! But I have fantastic memories of exploring the island, talking till dawn and discovering some amazing whisky, which sparked my love of discovering all kinds of whiskies, from light, fresh flavours to smoky, peaty tastes and complex characteristics. There really is a whisky for everyone. “
