Scotch producer Lochlea has appointed former Laphroaig distillery manager John Campbell as its new production director, ahead of the release of its inaugural liquid.
Campbell, who recently departed Islay producer Laphroaig after more than 25 years of service, will lead Lochlea Distillery’s production as it prepares to release its first single malt in 2022.
Campbell, who will also fill the role of master blender, said: “It’s an opportunity to develop a whisky that is innovative and distinctive, with a distillery that shares my ethos on quality, environment and sustainability.”
Campbell will move to mainland Scotland after working for 27 years on his native Islay.
“Getting involved in the process from this early stage means I can help to define what Lochlea becomes. The next few years are going to be incredibly exciting for us,” he added.
The single malt was originally set for release earlier this month, but due to industry-wide supply chain issues with sourcing glass, the launch has been delayed to 2022. Production of the whisky started in August 2018.
Lochlea’s commercial manager David Ferguson said: “From our first meeting it was clear that John’s values aligned closely with ours as a business. His experience at Laphroaig in growing an iconic global whisky brand over the past 27 years is impressive.
“Having full traceability from growing our own barley through to maturing every drop of our spirit on site is great, but just as important is the team we’re building to develop the brand. John is another fantastic addition and will undoubtedly help us fulfil the ambitious plans we have for Lochlea.”
Lochlea is located on the site of the former home of Scottish poet Robert Burns, who lived there from 1774 to 1784.
The Lowland distillery was built after receiving a £6 million (US$8m) investment, with plans for the site approved in 2015.
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Author: Alice Brooker