Scotch whisky company Whyte & Mackay has appointed Kirstie McCallum as its second master whisky maker. 

A chemist by training, McCallum has more than 20 years' experience in the Scotch whisky industry, including as master blender at Distell International (owner of Tobermory, Deanston, and Bunnahabhain distilleries) and most recently as director of distilleries at international spirits company Halewood.

She will work alongside Gregg Glass, fellow master whisky maker and 2023 Icons of Whisky Master Distiller of the Year, on Whyte & Mackay's whisky portfolio, which includes The Dalmore, Fettercairn, and Jura.

On McCallum's appointment, Glass said: "As whisky makers we all share a real passion for all we do and make – from acorn to glass – which is why I am delighted to welcome Kirstie McCallum to Whyte & Mackay. Kirstie’s passion, experience and expertise adds a fresh dimension to the whisky-making team.

"In the time since I joined, we have enjoyed sustained growth across each of the five distilleries and the portfolio of whisky brands. Kirstie will make an important contribution to the next chapter of our whisky making."