“I am, of course, respected and admired by all those I meet around the world for my humility, first and foremost, and my modesty…” That is how I was going to begin my speech at the Icons of Whisky 2010, had I been asked to make one.

Joking aside, my heart swells with pride – and some in the office have suggested my head has swollen similarly – when I think of the gala dinner I attended last week. Whisky Magazine has held awards annually for the last 10 years; the evening always offers a terrific opportunity to catch up with whisky folk and enjoy exchanging stories.

This year’s event was a particularly fine night as the winner of the hotly-contested category of Whisky Ambassador of the Year, in association with Boisdale, was – cue drum roll – me! Thank you, thank you…

According to the latest issue of Whisky Magazine: “His enthusiasm and energy for Orkney and its spirit has inspired many a devotee to make the pilgrimage to the distillery.”

Another winner from Highland Park on the night was the limited edition Earl Magnus, which won one of the Best New Release of the Year prizes. The whisky sold out very quickly but, I trust you will be delighted to learn, we are planning to release a 12 year old, high-strength follow-up very soon. I’ll keep you posted.

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

Gerry
Head of Education, Intergalactic Whisky Overlord