Bacardi Director of Blending, Scotch Whisky Stephanie Macleod has once again been honoured as Master Blender of the Year by the International Whisky Competition (IWC) 2024.
A well-respected figure in the whisky industry, Macleod has won the award for the sixth year in a row. She made history as the first woman to have claimed the prestigious title in 2019.
This achievement reflects her expertise in the art of whisky-making as Master Blender for Dewar’s Blended Scotch whisky and Malt Master for the family-owned company’s portfolio of Single Malts – Aberfeldy, Aultmore, Craigellachie, Royal Brackla and The Deveron.
Macleod’s success, as well as the quality of the Bacardi range, is underpinned by the awards won by some quality whiskies she crafted. These include the Aultmore Oloroso Sherry Cask 25 Year Old Travel Retail Exclusive, named IWC Whisky of the Year; and Dewar’s Double Double 37 Year Old, recognised as the Best Blended Scotch for the second year running.
Macleod said: “To be recognised for the work you do is incredible. To be recognised for what you love to do is quite simply a dream come true.
“Awards like this are a tribute to all those involved in our whisky-making, and it’s thanks to our passionate, highly skilled team that our exceptional whiskies are enjoyed by new and existing whisky drinkers around the world.”
Adding to the success, Bacardi was named Distiller of the Year and its brands were recognised with six awards in the Top 10 whiskies of 2024.
Bacardi Chief Supply Chain Officer Dave Ingram said: “We have bold ambitions and exciting plans for our premium and ultra-premium whiskies and judging by the acclaim our recent launches have received, it’s clear we are getting it right.
“Congratulations to Stephanie and her team – the work they’re doing leads to exceptional whiskies that appeal to new whisky drinkers and drives the entire category forward.”
Macleod’s career with the company started when she joined Bacardi in Glasgow in 1998, and eventually became Master Blender for Dewar’s in 2006. As the company’s Director of Blending, Scotch Whisky, she leads a team of Blenders and Assistant Blenders who learn from her extensive knowledge and expertise every day. ✈
