KELSEY MCKECHNIE APPRENTICE MALT MASTER
Kelsey McKechnie was appointed to the position of Apprentice Malt Master just over two years ago, becoming one of the youngest apprentice malt masters in the world. McKechnie embodies the future of whisky and along with gaining a coverted position, she’s done it in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Her talent was spotted early by whisky in blending and barrel finishing, along with the most respected of mentors guiding the way, put the future of The Balvenie whiskies in safe hands. Ash Pini caught up with McKechnie to see if some of the magic dust can rub off on us, and learn more about the changing the perception of who the average whisky drinker is. Ash Pini: How have you found the first two years working as the apprentice to the great David Stewart? What has changed in that time for you?
For example we have launched Balvenie Stories, a limited edition 25 Year Old Double Wood and new 50 Year Olds, just to name a few during this time.
Kelsey McKechnie: The past few years have definitely been exciting and we have produced a lot of innovation. It’s only when I take a second to look back on how many new products we have created for The Balvenie I realise how much has changed.
AP: Can you describe the local whisky distilling and blending community in Speyside? Is it a tight knit community and how accepting are they of a young, talented apprentice?
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KM: Speyside is not only renowned for producing great whisky, it is also renowned for the friendly people who live in the area. There is also a true sense of pride in The Balvenie especially within our local whisky community. I actually lived on site at The Balvenie and Glenfiddich distillery for six months where I met really interesting and knowledgeable people, but now I travel to the distillery a couple of times per month - it is one the highlights to my role.
