Laphroaig names new distillery manager

Islay-based Scotch whisky distillery Laphroaig has named Barry MacAffer as its new distillery manager.

MacAffer most recently worked as acting distillery manager and takes up the permanent post with immediate effect.

He has worked at the distillery for 10 years.

Francois Bazini, managing director, House of Scotch, gin and Irish brands, at Laphroaig owner Beam Suntory, said: “Barry MacAffer was the standout candidate to become Laphroaig’s distillery manager and is uniquely suited to carry forward the legacy of Laphroaig, and continue to build the future of our skilled and passionate distillery team.

“An Islay native, Barry has worked at the distillery for over a decade and spent the last five years working closely with his predecessor giving him a deep knowledge of our history, operations, partners and local community.

“We’re proud to have an Ileach in charge and are confident in the future of our iconic whisky.”

MacAffer developed his skills in the operation and production side of the whisky-distilling world.

He joined Laphroaig in 2011, initially looking after the malt floors and warehousing of the distillery.

In 2016, he was appointed assistant manager, and then promoted to acting distillery manager in late 2021 following the departure of former distillery manager John Campbell after 25 years at Laphroaig.

Last year, Laphroaig released two cask strength whiskies, one aged for 10 years and another for 25 years.

The distillery’s parent company Beam Suntory shared its full-year 2021 financial results last month, which grew by 11%.