The Dram Queen
The Dram Queen
Please introduce yourself and tell us a bit about how you became The Dram Queen
As The Dram Queen, I offer inspiring and entertaining Scotch whisky experiences from an independent perspective in which I share my passion, knowledge and behind the scenes expertise. One of the few women who are a Master of the Quaich, I aim to demystify Scotch whisky.
I offer
- Dram Room Tastings to bring a range of fascinating Scotch whisky topics to life which can be tailored to clients’ interests or booked online. My comfortable Dram Room on the family farm in Speyside accommodates up to a dozen guests.
- Dram Queen Private Bespoke Whisky Experiences focussing on all aspects of Scotch whisky. These are suitable for meetings, conferences, parties or celebrations and can be in a castle, a private house or clients’ accommodation in Speyside or elsewhere in Scotland
- Dram-Feasts and events pairing food and whisky
- Whisky Tours – curated itineraries, with guiding/hosting options.
What does it mean to you to be ‘The Dram Queen’ – and how did your passion for whisky become a business?
Following a long career in the Scotch whisky industry as the first woman to be an International Brand Ambassador, I felt the time was right to share my enthusiasm and expertise with consumers by offering face to face bespoke tutored tastings and other whisky experiences.
How do you see whisky as a reflection of the Highlands — not just in flavour, but in culture, history, and landscape?
I cannot recall a time when I did not enjoy whisky. However, the story of Scotch whisky is intertwined with Scotland’s history, geography and culture which have all contributed to its success in countless ways.
What do you think people often misunderstand about Highland whisky, and what do you most love showing them? There are a multitude of myths and legends about Scotch whisky. I enjoy sharing its stories whilst at the same time demystifying it to make it more accessible and enhance the enjoyment of people from around the world who may approach it with a range of preconceptions about how and when to drink it.
Beyond the glass, how do our Highland stories and our Highland communities shape the way people connect with a dram? For centuries distilling whisky and enjoying a dram was an intrinsic part of life from cradle to grave in many communities throughout the Highlands of Scotland and beyond. A dram provided warmth during the long cold winters, it was a feature of social life and a welcome to be offered as guests arrived. It was prescribed for the preservation of health, the prolongation of life, for the relief of colic, palsy, smallpox and many other ailments.
Emigrating Scots took their love of whisky and their expertise in making it with them to many countries of the world where it is enjoyed today. Whisky continues to feature in the musical, literary and artistic traditions of the Highlands and the Scottish diaspora.
What excites you most about the future of whisky in the Highlands — and what role do you see yourself playing in it?
At the same time as it remains true to its traditions, the Scotch whisky industry is embracing technical advances to address climate change and reduce its environmental impact. Over recent years there has been innovation in the use of casks and the creation of more varied flavours. I expect these initiatives will continue, driven, in part, by some of the recently opened new distilleries. It is interesting to see that women now occupy more prominent roles as owners, distillery managers and blenders and I expect their influence will be beneficial. I hope I will continue to have the opportunity to share my enthusiasm with people as wish to learn about Scotch whisky.