Charles MacLean is thought by many to be Scotland’s finest whisky writer. His tireless promotion of Scotch over the years has resulted in Charlie very recently being elected to the prestigious rank of Master by Scotch whisky’s very own secret society, the Keepers of the Quaich. I know because I was there, sitting opposite him, at the Highland Park table.

Charlie is an authority on our favourite subject and, as you might imagine, a great story-teller. His latest book, Whiskypedia, takes an entirely new approach by exploring whisky flavour and character with reference to how it is made.

Of course, distillery traditions and location are important but the key premise in Whiskypedia is that each individual distillery’s unique character is primarily influenced by the distilling equipment itself, how it is operated and how the spirit is matured. This is arguably a less romantic approach than myths, legends, regionality and terroir but it makes a lot of sense.

In Whiskypedia introductory sections explain the contribution made by each stage of production and maturation, working in tandem with the detailed notes about how malt whisky is made at each distillery.

The 352-page hardcover book also features beautiful, specifically-commissioned photography and is available from Amazon. Copies signed by the author are available from www.whiskymax.co.uk at £16.99.

For more information about the Best Spirit in the World visit www.highlandpark.co.uk
 
 

Gerry
Head of Brand Education, Highland Park

PS. Charlie, we know you receive and read these emails, we look forward to receiving that signed book you promised us for our library at the distillery!
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WI is pleased to report that the prestigious Keepers of the Quaich have named Charles MacLean Master of the Quaich,  their highest honor. Charlie was first inducted into the Keepers of the Quaich in 1992.