Benromach’s Visitor Attraction Manager is voted best in the world 

Susan Colville wins at Icons of Whisky 2019 Global Finale

Benromach Distillery is celebrating success at the prestigious Global Whisky Icons Awards with Susan Colville winning the coveted title of Visitor Attraction Manager of the Year.

Announced in a ceremony in London’s Honourable Artillery Company last night (28^th March 2019), the awards, which are organised by Whisky Magazine, pay tribute to the expertise that is poured into every bottle of whisky made around the world. Only those working in the industry can nominate an individual or brand, with the final winners chosen by a panel of expert judges.

Susan Colville, Brand Home Manager, was recognised for the outstanding contribution she makes to the many thousands that visit Benromach Distillery each year. After winning the title of Visitor Attraction Manager of the Year in the Icons of Whisky Scotland finals in December 2018, Susan went forward to the global finals, competing against attraction managers from regional finals held around the world.

Susan Colville said: “I’m incredibly proud to have received this award following an incredible few years of development for Benromach.  Our visitor numbers have grown significantly year on year and, following our successful 20^th Anniversary celebrations during 2018, we are looking forward to continuing to share Benromach’s fascinating story with visitors from around the world.

‘’Benromach is one of the few distilleries left in Scotland where every whisky is crafted by hand with our distillers using all their senses to guide the process. This gives every visitor to the distillery an incredibly warm, up-close and personal tour.  This award recognises our whole team’s endeavours to showcase our distillery and our national drink on a global stage.’’

Keith Cruickshank, Benromach’s Distillery Manager, said: “Susan thoroughly deserves this award and it is particularly special as it is chosen by those working in the industry alongside a panel of whisky experts.   We are looking forward to another busy summer season at the visitor centre and are proud to have Susan’s expertise and industry knowledge at the helm.”

In 2018, Susan was made a Keeper of the Quaich, joining the international and select society which recognises those who have shown outstanding commitment to the Scotch whisky industry.

Notes to Editors

Benromach Distillery

Originally built in 1898, Benromach Distillery was brought back to life when the Urquhart family realised a lifelong dream to own a distillery and purchased it in 1993. The distillery was extensively re-equipped over a five-year period before it was officially opened by HRH The Duke of Rothesay in 1998.

In reopening Benromach Distillery, the Urquhart family wanted to create a single malt whisky that has a classic Speyside character: beautifully balanced with a light touch of smoke.

Benromach Distillery is located on the outskirts of the ancient market town of Forres. A five star visitor centre is open to the public throughout the year for tours and tastings. Benromach Distillery is a member of the world-famous Malt Whisky Trail.