2018 Judges

Annabel Meikle, Director, Keepers of the Quaich

The Keepers of the Quaich is an exclusive, international community of people recognised for outstanding commitment to Scotch Whisky. Director Annabel Meikle here turns her knowledge and experience to the world of gin.

Robin Russell, Owner, Robbie’s Drams Whisky Merchants

Robin has spent his entire working life in the licensed trade and was one of the first people in the country to launch a whisky festival – the annual Whisky An’A’ That festival in Ayr. He knows a bit about gin too!

Blair Bowman, Author and Founder of World Whisky Day

Blair is an in demand whisky consultant. He is author of the Pocket Guide to Whisky: featuring the WhiskyTubeMap and regularly hosts whisky training sessions around the world. He often writes about gin for Scottish Field’s biannual sister magazine Cask & Still.

Douglas Wood, Owner, Woodwinters

Owner of the awardwinning Woodwinters Wines and Whiskies in Stirling, Bridge of Allan and Edinburgh, Douglas has also been a senior judge at the International Wine Challenge. His vast experience is a welcome addition to our panel.

Matthew McFadyen, Co-founder, The Good Spirits Company

Matthew is one of the co-founders of the Good Spirits Company, Glasgow’s leading independent spirits specialist. He is particularly interested in Scotch Malt Whisky but that doesn’t stop him from enjoying a gin from time to time.

Ewan McIlwraith, Owner, Robertsons of Pitlochry

Ewan took over the running of Robertsons of Pitlochry in 2013. As his business is family-run, Ewan’s focus is on customer service and he is ever willing to spend time talking and helping people sample the many spirits he has on offer.