The Art Of Blending And What The Future Holds For Scotch Whiskies

Before calling it a day, true legend of the whisky industry Dr Jim Beveridge discusses the art of blending and what the future holds for Scotch whiskies

- Richard Augustin

DR JIM BEVERIDGE OBE has relinquished his position as master blender at Johnnie Walker. The departure of such a central figure at Diageo and Johnnie Walker is certainly sad news for whisky lovers. Beveridge is a true legend of the whisky industry who has spent more than four decades at Diageo and who has been responsible for some of the world’s most popular and acclaimed Scotch whisky blends from the brand, including Johnnie Walker Blue Label.

Beveridge’s journey in the world of whisky began 42 years ago. He started out as an analytical chemist in 1979 and went on to carve an indelible reputation in the business. Renowned for his tireless work ethic, expertise and dedication, Beveridge has consistently been at the forefront of blending and developing flavours that have shaped and defined the Johnnie Walker label.

A well-loved and respected figure in the business, Beveridge received the biggest honour for his services to the Scotch whisky industry when he was awarded an OBE by Her Majesty the Queen in 2019. Beveridge’s retirement now paves the way for a new master blender, Dr Emma Walker. Dr Walker officially takes over the reins on 1 January 2022,

Just before his term concluced, we paid one last call to Beveridge, for the chance to discuss Scotch whiskies, as well as to glean the fine points of whisky blending from a true master of the craft.

You have been at Johnnie Walker since 1979. How much has the Scotch whisky industry changed through the decades?