Halewood Artisanal Spirits, the British company behind whisky brands including Aber Falls and Bonnington, has appointed Jillian Boyd as its new master blender.

Boyd joins the business from Compass Box, where she worked as whisky maker and brand ambassador. er work saw her named as Master Blender of the Year in the Scottish Icons of Whisky awards in 2020.

She takes over from Halewood's former director of distilleries Dr Kirstie McCallum, who joined The Dalmore owner Whyte & Mackay as a master blender in September. 

In her new master blender role, Boyd will oversee the creation of whiskies from Halewood’s distilleries around the UK: Aber Falls in North Wales, Bankhall in Cumbria, and Bonnington in Edinburgh. She will also be focusing on developing the ranges from Irish whiskey brands Samuel Gelston’s and The Pogues.

Boyd said: “I am so excited to be joining the Halewood business. They have such an incredible line-up of emerging whisky brands from all over the UK, and a commitment to producing new and innovative whiskies and blends. I can’t wait to work, and learn, alongside the hugely passionate teams at the likes of Aber Falls and Bonnington, and to closely collaborating to produce truly exceptional products.”

Poppy Williams, group marketing manager at Halewood Artisanal Spirits, comments: “We’re thrilled to welcome Jill to the Halewood team. The expertise and creative flair that she displays will be invaluable as we continue to develop our whisky portfolio and elevate the quality and reputation of our brands.”