Kirsteen Campbell has been appointed to the role of Master Blender for The Famous Grouse, taking over from current Master Blender Gordon Motion this month.
Campbell has worked alongside Motion for over eight years and became Master Blender for Cutty Sark at the age of just 33. She will now become one of the few people allowed to share the secret of the blend of whiskies that combine to make The Famous Grouse.
The role involves managing the ‘106 Sample Room’ at Edrington’s Blending Headquarters. Here, an estimated 11,000 samples of single malts, grains and blends are stored – a working library for Edrington’s team of nosers. The team can nose up to 600 samples a day, hunting down the right aromas, colour and character needed to create The Famous Grouse blend.
Motion will remain at Edrington in his new role as Edrington Master Whisky Maker, and will focus on the company’s single malt portfolio, concentrating on Highland Park, The Glenturret Single Malts and The Macallan.
Kirsteen Campbell said: “I feel very privileged to be taking on the role of Master Blender for The Famous Grouse. It is an exceptional blend and I’m looking forward to working with the team here to ensure we that we continue to deliver the quality and character expected of the UK’s number one selling blend.”
Gordon Motion added: “Kirsteen is a very talented Master Blender and I’ve no doubt she will rise to this new challenge. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the last six years as Master Blender for The Famous Grouse. My highlight would have to be when The Famous Grouse 40 Year Old was awarded the Trophy Award at the International Spirits Challenge in 2013, it was a very proud moment for me and the team.”
Campbell will continue in her role as Master Blender for Cutty Sark Blended Scotch Whisky.
