Scotch Whisky Award Shortlist: Stephanie Macleod

Master Blender Stephanie Macleod works at John Dewar & Sons Ltd, where she is in charge of blended Scotch whiskies and single malts. The brand is part of the Bacardí portfolio, and is the world’s most awarded blended Scotch whisky.

For 12 years, Macleod has been responsible for the creation of ten blended Scotch whiskies, 21 single malt expressions, two spirit drinks and numerous casks, as well as travelling the globe to promote Dewar’s Scotch whisky portfolio.

“As Master Blender, I’ve realised that Scotch whisky is a lifetime of learning,” Macleod said.

“The cask doesn’t always interact with the whisky in the way you predict, and that’s what I love about it. I want to share my passion for whisky with the world.” 

When not blending award-winning Scotch, Macleod is a strong advocate for getting more women into the industry; she leads the Women in Leadership team for UK Operations for Bacardí. In this position, she has developed a steering group and programme of events to encourage women with leadership aspirations to realise their potential.  

Outside of Bacardí, Macleod is a member of multiple committees in the industry, including the Scientific Committee of the Scotch Whisky Association and the Research Management Committee with the Scotch Whisky Research Institute. 

“Being nominated for this award has filled me with an enormous sense of pride”, Macleod said.

“Should I win, the honour would be shared with my team and colleagues at Dewar’s and Bacardi, the beautiful brands that I create and nurture, and our global blended Scotch and single malt Scotch whisky drinkers.”

The winner of the Outstanding Achievement in Scotch Whisky Award will be announced at the IWSC Awards Banquet on 14 November. Like the IWSC Facebook page to tune in to the livestream on 14 November, and find out who will receive this prestigious award.