In the past decade, the impact of the Scottish Field Whisky Challenge awards has far outstripped our expectations, with the annual ritual of defining the best whiskies quickly establishing itself as something of an institution. The challenge is now an event which is eagerly awaited by the whisky industry, by aficionados and particularly by occasional ‘drammers’ looking for fresh experiences and ne
w expressions to try. The reason for the success of the Scottish Field Whisky Challenge from its inception has been its unimpeachable credibility. Fifteen years ago, we appointed the most respected figures in the whisky world; men and women whose credentials, nose and provenance are impeccable, to be our judges. Then we asked these yodas of whisky to nominate the malts and blends that have impressed them the most in the previous year. This was followed by a ‘blindfolded’ nosing and tasting, with each whisky given a final score. With thousands of whiskies tasted over the past fifteen years, each year this has been an exhaustive process – but then it needs to be if we’re to stand in judgement on the best examples of our national drink. Once again this year, we have a fabulous panel of eight judges:
Darren Leitch - The Whisky Shop
Ronnie Routledge - Single Malts Direct
Mike Lord - The Whisky Shop Dufftown
Matthew McFadyen - The Good Spirits Co
Robin Russell - Robbie's Drams
Mark Angus - Gordon & McPhail
Douglas Wood - Woodwinters Wines and Whiskies
Charles MacLean - whisky writer and film star! Call Janice on 0131 551 7925
Mon-Fri 9-5pm for more information.
