Glen Grant launching special bottling for master distiller Dennis Malcolm

Glen Grant launching special bottling for master distiller Dennis Malcolm

New expression marks Dennis Malcolm's 60th anniversary in the whisky industry

06 April 2021

The Glen Grant is celebrating its master distiller's 60th anniversary in the whisky industry with a new bottling.

Dennis Malcolm is a globally renowned maker of and ambassador for whisky, having created some of the most-awarded single malts in the world. He was recognised by the Queen for his service to the industry in 2016, when he was made an OBE, and is also an inductee of the Whisky Magazine Hall of Fame.

On 3 April 2021 he celebrated 60 years in the whisky industry, making him one of Scotland's longest-serving master distillers. To mark the milestone, The Glen Grant is releasing a rare 60-year-old LTO expression - the oldest and first of its kind in the brand's 181-year history. The release will be accompanied by a global campaign and launch event later in 2021.

Born onsite at The Glen Grant Distillery in Rothes in 1946, Dennis Malcolm joined the distillery workforce aged 15 as an apprentice cooper, working alongside his father and grandfather.

Following stints with whisky makers including The Glenlivet and Chivas Brothers, he came back to The Glen Grant in 2006 as master distiller, after the distillery was purchased by Campari. As well as making exceptional whisky, he is renowned as a Speyside historian and leads tours around The Glen Grant Distillery.

Speaking about his anniversary in the industry, Dennis remarked that Glen Grant is "a way of life", adding: "I started 1961. It has been enjoyable; it's not a job for me but a way of life. I didn’t work with a clock, it wasn’t a job, it was my life. It has been a rewarding journey, because I’ve seen a lot of innovation."

Julka Villa, global managing director of GSM Spirits, said: "It’s nearly impossible to measure the influence Dennis has had on Campari Group and the entire Scotch whisky industry.

"He’s shown the entire company how a distillery should be run, with incredible attention to his craft, and real caring for all those around him. Dressed frequently in his family tartan kilt, he also shows the world the meaning of a true Scotch ambassador, unmatched in his knowledge and unwavering in his passion and commitment."

Subscribe to Our Magazine

Published in print 8 times each year, Whisky Magazine is the perfect drinking companion for all who enjoy the water of life. Subscribe to Whisky Magazine

More From This Category

Wonders of Whisky

Subscribe to the Whisky Magazine Newsletter to see the latest in all things whisky