Ex-Lakes whisky maker Sarah Burgess joins InterBev
International Beverage has named Sarah Burgess its master of whisky creation, who returns to Scotland after working at The Lakes Distillery.
Burgess was most recently whisky maker for English producer The Lakes Distillery, which she joined in 2023, overseeing its first permanent single malt release after creating the Craigellachie line for The Craigellachie hotel the year prior.
Before that, her 25 years in the whisky industry includes time at Diageo distilleries Auchroisk, Glenkinchie and Clynelish, and also as the lead whisky maker for Edrington-owned The Macallan.
The move to International Beverage marks Burgess’s return to the Scotch whisky industry.
International Beverage is the international arm of Thai Beverage (ThaiBev). Its Scotch whisky brands include Old Pulteney, Balblair, Speyburn and AnCnoc single malts, plus Hankey Bannister blended whisky.
As the company’s first master of whisky creation, Burgess will lead a team to drive the development and creation of these whiskies.
On bringing Burgess into the fold, managing director of International Beverage, Malcolm Leask, said: “International Beverage is entering an exciting period of growth and we are delighted to have Sarah at the helm of our Scottish spirits portfolio.
“Her vast industry experience, passion and creative flair, make her the ideal custodian of our award-winning premium spirits brands.
“As a business we are committed to employing the best people to help drive our business forward and Sarah certainly fits the bill. We are looking forward to seeing her talent shine.”
In the role, Burgess will also work with the company’s global brand advocacy team.
She added: “I’m thrilled to step into this new role where I’ll have the opportunity to shape the future of International Beverage’s whisky creation. I’m hoping to bring a fresh new perspective along with a steadfast commitment to enduring quality.
“I’m also looking forward to working closely with International Beverage’s global brand advocacy team, leading training initiatives and bringing our extraordinary spirits to markets around the world.”
Burgess’s replacement at The Lakes was announced last month, with whisky and spirits consultant Brendan McCarron stepping into the role.
ThaiBev recently rolled out Thailand’s first single malt whisky, Prakaan, in international markets.
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