Tullibardine Distillery appoints first master blender

Single malt Scotch whisky distillery Tullibardine has named Keith Geddes as the first master blender in its 68-year history.

In his new role, Geddes is responsible for all products in the brand’s portfolio, as well as new product developments which take place in the Tullibardine lab.

Geddes, who has worked as assistant blender at John Dewar & Sons since 2008, is a Heriot-Watt University graduate, holding a diploma in Brewing and Distilling.

He also studied Physical Sciences with joint honours in Chemistry and Biology at Robert Gordon University, before going on to work for Carlsberg Tetley and Chivas Brothers.

“We are very pleased that Keith is joining the team as master blender here at Tullibardine,” said John Torrance, distillery manager at the Terroirs Distillers-owned site.

“Keith has a vast wealth of experience with brewing and distilling, and we’re looking forward to him sharing his valuable expertise in the role.

“Keith’s appointment is a clear signal of the company’s long term commitment to producing quality single malt Highland whisky.”

Geddes added: “I feel very privileged to be taking on the role of master blender at Tullibardine. The distillery is home to an array of remarkable expressions, and I’m looking forward to further evolve the brand and to deliver the character and quality of the whisky, from production to bottle.

“I’m joining the team at an exciting point. There is considerable investment in to Tullibardine’s future, and a real feeling of innovation. The role has given me lots of freedom so far, and I’m looking forward to being solely responsible for developing new Tullibardine products and retaining the quality of the existing portfolio.

“As well as a science, blending is also an art relying on a combination of my scientific knowledge and previous experience working in similar roles. I can’t wait to use these talents gathered over the years to develop an exceptional whisky that our customers will love.”