Issued 27 November 2009 – for immediate use

News Release

WHYTE & MACKAY WINS GLOBAL DISTILLER OF THE YEAR

The world renowned International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC) has voted Whyte & Mackay Global Distiller of the Year 2009.

The Glasgow-based spirits company won the prestigious accolade because of the record breaking year it’s had, winning more international product awards than ever before.

Whyte & Mackay has won 70 international medals and awards this year, including:
 Whyte & Mackay 30 year old voted “best blended whisky in the world” by the IWSC
 The Beverage Institute in the US describing The Dalmore  as a “world class experience”, and winning two double gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Awards
 The limited edition Jura Paps range and Jura 30 year old receiving gold “best in class” awards from IWSC
 The International Spirits Challenge giving gold status for Jura Superstition, and Whyte & Mackay 30 and 40 year olds
 Glayva is now trademarked as the “best liqueur in the world” after winning the IWSC trophy a record breaking five times

Commenting on the achievement, Whyte & Mackay’s chief executive John Beard said: “This is a great accolade and really proves beyond doubt that we have a portfolio of products which can compete with the best in the world, both here and overseas. 

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our staff for a job very well done, and to thank our distillery personnel in particular for their commitment to producing some of the best liquid in the business.”

Whyte & Mackay was presented with the Global Distiller of the Year Award at a glamorous IWSC event held in London last night (26 November 2009) where a range of awards were made.

The company’s renowned master blender Richard Paterson collected the trophy stating: “What a fantastic night. I would like to thank the IWSC for this fantastic accolade which recognises our commitment to quality and innovation in the world of whisky. I would also like to say congratulations to all the other winners last night.”