Kirsteen Campbell takes on Prestigious Role

Kirsteen Campbell has been appointed to the role of Master Blender for The Famous Grouse, taking over from current Master Blender Gordon Motion this month.

Kirsteen has worked alongside Gordon for over 8 years and became Master Blender for Cutty Sark at the age of just 33.

Kirsteen will now become one of the select few who know the unique blend of whiskies that combine to make The Famous Grouse. It holds the prestigious title of being the best-selling Blended Scotch in Scotland, and the UK, producing 43 million bottles each year.

The role involves managing the legendary ‘106 Sample Room’ at the Blending Headquarters on Great Western Road, Glasgow.  Here, an estimated 11,000 samples of single malts, grains and blends are stored – a working library for the team of nosers lead by Gordon and Kirsteen. The team can nose up to 600 samples a day, hunting down the right aromas, colour and character needed to create The Famous Grouse blend.  From distillation to bottling, The Famous Grouse has over 450,000 quality checks each year, which is testimony to the craftsmanship and high quality standards.

Kirsteen Campbell said: “I feel privileged to be taking on the role of Master Blender for The Famous Grouse. It is an exceptional blend and I’m looking forward to working with the team here to ensure we that we continue to deliver the high quality and character expected of the UK’s number one selling blend.”

Johna Penman, Marketing Controller at Maxxium UK said: “The Famous Grouse Blended Scotch is built on our rich heritage, our commitment to sourcing only the finest ingredients, and the unique flavour our wood selection delivers.

It is the task of our Master Blender to use their skill and artistry to fuse each of these elements together to create The Famous Grouse – and it is a pleasure to introduce Kirsteen Campbell as she takes on this hugely important role.”

Gordon Motion will take on a new role as Master Whisky Maker, concentrating on a single malt portfolio, including Highland Park, The Glenturret Single Malts and The Macallan.

Gordon Motion commented: “Kirsteen is a very talented Master Blender and I’ve no doubt she will rise to this new challenge. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the last six years as Master Blender for The Famous Grouse.”

Kirsteen’s role will expand to cover The Famous Grouse, Cutty Sark and Snow Leopard Vodka.