Benromach appoints fourth distiller

Single malt Scotch producer The Benromach Distillery Company has hired a fourth distiller to enable the brand to better meet demand from international markets.

Murdo MacKenzie, right, with the Benromach distilling team (L-R) Keith Cruickshank, Benromach Distillery Manager, Mike Ross, and Brian Williams

Murdo MacKenzie, 24, from nearby Findhorn has been recruited by parent firm Gordon & MacPhail (G&M) to join the Benromach team. He formerly worked for G&M at their Elgin warehouse.

“I’m really looking forward to learning how to make whisky the traditional way,” said MacKenzie. “It’s a real privilege to have the chance to learn from the other members of the team and play a part in producing such a special malt whisky.”

Keith Cruickshank, Benromach distillery manager, added: “As our newest distiller, Murdo will become part of the small team that is proud to handcraft Benromach whisky and help us meet demand from across the globe.

“Benromach, with its unique pre 1960s character, has proved a huge hit in the UK and overseas markets. It’s proved very popular with whisky lovers but also those who are trying whisky for the first time.”

Benromach distillery was reopened by Gordon & MacPhail in 1998 with two distillers. A third was appointed to 2013 to keep up with growing demand.

The Scotch brand is now exported to more than 40 countries in the world, with sales up by 36% in the last 12 months, according to the distillery.

Earlier this year, Benromach extended its Wood Finish range with the launch of Hermitage 2007, a new variant finished in wine barrels from the Rhône region of France.