Chivas Brothers, the Scotch whisky arm of Pernod Ricard, has named Kevin Balmforth as its new grasp blender, succeeding Sandy Hyslop.
Hyslop retires after greater than 40 years in Scotch whisky, and can proceed to assist the enterprise as grasp blender emeritus, engaged on Chivas Brothers’ status whiskies and representing its manufacturers all over the world.
“For me, the enjoyment of whisky making lies in pushing boundaries – uncovering new flavours and expressions that invite new audiences in, while staying true to Scotch’s legacy. Whisky has an unimaginable capacity to convey individuals collectively, creating shared moments and connections throughout generations. Passing on the craft of mixing is a part of that very same custom. It has been the eagerness of a lifetime to show and develop my workforce to proceed that work. It’s with nice pleasure and confidence that I cross this privilege onto Kevin, who I’ve labored with for 20 years,” stated Hyslop.
Hyslop joined the trade in 1983 at Stewart & Son of Dundee, and for 42 years, Hyslop has been the inventive power behind manufacturers together with Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal, Royal Salute and a large portfolio of single malt whiskies.
Taking on from Hyslop, Balmforth has been with the corporate for 25 years, serving to to form a few of the enterprise’s most recognisable whiskies.
“It’s an unimaginable honour to comply with in Sandy’s footsteps as Chivas Brothers’ grasp blender. I’ve had the privilege of studying from one of many trade’s true masters, and I’m dedicated to constructing on his legacy by exploring new dimensions of flavour whereas staying true to the heritage that makes our whiskies so distinctive,” stated Balmforth.
