24th September, 2015 by Kristiane Sherry

Whyte & Mackay, The Dalmore and Jura master distiller Richard Paterson is celebrating 45 years of working in the whisky trade.

The well-known industry figure followed both his grandfather and father into the whisky business and started his career at A. Gillies & Company Whisky Blenders & Brokers. Paterson’s initial role was a production assistant, where he learned whisky distilling and blending. He then joined Whyte & Mackay as master distiller at 26 years of age.

Over the course of his career so far Paterson has built a reputation as “The Nose”, and as an “illustrious showman”, says Whyte & Mackay. He has also been responsible for creating the company’s whiskies including The Dalmore Trinitas and Mackinlay’s Shackleton blend.

Bryan Donaghey, Whyte & Mackay CEO, said: “Richard’s contribution to Whyte & Mackay and indeed the whisky industry as a whole over the last 45 years has been phenomenal.

“His commitment and passion never ceases to amaze me and I can confidently say, on behalf of the team at Whyte & Mackay, the industry and of course all of the whisky aficionados out there , that we all look forward to working with him for many years to come.”

Earlier this week Whyte & Mackay’s parent company Emperador launched a new advertising campaign in the UK called Surprisingly Smooth.