The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
MY LIFE DR KIRSTIE McCALLUM
First record bought?
Madonna’s Like a Virgin – I was only 10.
Book that changed your life?
Dr Kirstie McCallum is head of whisky creation at Glen Moray. www.glenmoray.com The Lord Of The Rings, as it started my passion for reading.
Most expensive purchase?
A watch. I love jewellery and watches.
First job?
A checkout assistant in a Presto supermarket. It was a weekend job when I was at school and I was there for seven years. I even got a longservice award.
Favourite time of day?
I’m at my best in the morning.
Last time you cried?
Probably last month out of lockdown frustration.
Worst fashion faux pas?
Too many to mention, as I’m not exactly on trend. The worst would be blue checked short dungarees. I thought I was it at the time. I now look back and wonder whatever possessed me.
Favourite holiday destination?
Disney World, I’m a big kid at heart.
Idea of holiday hell?
Camping in a tent. I had some great camping holidays as a kid, but now it’s hotels with en suite facilities all the way.
Biggest phobia?
Anything with more than four legs, especially spiders.
What are you watching on TV?
I’m currently in the middle of Line Of Duty (again), Silent Witness and McMafia, as well as rewatching Game Of Thrones.
Favourite movie?
Star Wars, the originals episode IV-VI. I had a real thing for Han Solo.
Best advice you’ve been given?
Be yourself no matter what. I’m not very good at listening to advice. I’m sure if I was, it would have saved me a whole lot of hassle.
How do you relax?
Catching up with friends and family. I also love reading and painting and watching motorsport, especially rally.
Who you last spoke to on the phone?
My friend Helen. We’ve been friends for more than 20 years, and she’s my technical guru.
First thing you did this morning?
Gave the dog his breakfast before he ate my leg off.
Worst mistake?
Not sticking in at school. I had to go to college to get my Highers, as I was too busy messing about at school.
Your inspiration?
Work-wise it’s former boss David Pert, who was head chemist for Chivas Brothers. There wasn’t anyone who knew more about whisky than David. Outside of work, it’s my friend Alison, who is such a good person.
Would most like to meet?
Sir Jackie Stewart. I’ve read his book and it was fantastic.
Childhood crush?
George Michael and Harrison Ford.
Quirky habits?
Collecting diecast rally cars.
Worst meal?
Tripe, or liver and onions.
What makes you laugh?
Almost anything. I’m well known for my laugh, and I’m not sure it’s always been at the most appropriate times.
Most embarrassing moment?
Playing solo violin at a concert and my skirt ripping up the back as I got up on stage. It was mortifying.
Sean Connery or Daniel Craig?
Daniel Craig.
Beauty is...?
In the eye of the beholder.