2019 Judges

Darren Leitch, National Retail Manager, The Whisky Shop

Darren has been involved with the Challenge since 2001 and has always championed it as the ultimate whisky competition.

Vince Fusaro, Owner, Luvians Bottle Shop

Vince has been in the whisky world since 1983 and believes that he is still learning. He has always felt highly privileged to be in the industry.

Mike Lord, Owner, The Whisky Shop Dufftown

Mike is in his second decade at the helm of The Whisky Shop Dufftown, situated in the heart of Speyside.

Robin Russell, Proprietor, 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.

Ewan McIlwraith, Owner, Robertsons of Pitlochry

Ewan took over the running of Robertsons of Pitlochry in 2013. His focus is on customer service and helping people enjoy whisky.

Mark Angus, Retail UK Sales Manager, Gordon & MacPhail

This year’s Challenge is Mark’s sixth– he says that the most exciting part of the event is not knowing what flavours you are about to sample.

Douglas Wood, Owner, Woodwinters Wines and Whiskies

Owner of the award-winning Woodwinters Wines and Whiskies in Stirling, Bridge of Allan and Edinburgh

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.

Blair Bowman, Author and Founder of World Whisky Day

Blair is an in demand whisky consultant. He is the author of the

Pocket Guide to Whisky: featuring the WhiskyTubeMap

Gillian Kirkland, Owner, Piper Whisky Bar

With over 250 whiskies on offer, Gillian focusses bespoke whisky tastings in the bar. Whisky is her passion!

Mandy Silver, Owner, Curly Coo Bar

Owner of Curly Coo Bar in Stirling, Mandy is a leader in her field. She has a fabulous range of whiskies, giving customers a tour of Scotland across the gantry.