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19-year-old bags William Grant scholarship

A 19-year-old whisky enthusiast has become the first person to be awarded William Grant & Son’s Ian Murray Scholarship, created in honour of a former employee who died last year.

Jerome Marks-Gardener has been awarded the inaugural Ian Murray Scholarship by William Grant & Sons

Jerome Marks-Gardener, from the West Midlands, impressed a judging panel made up of Ian Murray’s colleagues and family members with his knowledge and enthusiasm for the spirits industry.

The teenager developed a passion for whisky while watching his father present whisky tastings in the 17th century cellars of his current workplace, independent wine merchants, Nickolls & Perks.

Through the scholarship, Marks-Gardener will have the chance to complete his WSET 1 and 2 qualifications in addition to attending a presentation skills course and visiting a William Grant & Sons distillery for an educational tour.

“I’m thrilled about winning the Ian Murray scholarship and I can’t thank William Grant & Sons and Ian’s family enough for their decision,” commented Marks Gardener. “Working for my family business, Nickoll’s & Perks, I have enjoyed learning about the versatility of spirits and the various whiskies that Scotland and the rest of the world has to offer.”

The scholarship was set up by William Grant & Sons earlier this year in memory of Ian Murray, founder of Spirited Solutions, who passed away last year.

“As well as inspiring hundreds of others to delve into the whisky world, Ian Murray has inspired me,” expressed Marks-Gardener. “His ability to hold the attention of a crowd was exceptional and he is someone I truly wish to emulate.

“In the future I hope to hold tastings of my own, and through the scholarship I will have the chance to excel in skills that are invaluable to our trade. I can’t wait to dive into this incredible opportunity.”

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