Tell us about your background
Born and educated in Glasgow, I graduated in 1992 from the University of Strathclyde with a BSc Hons (2:1) in Food Science. After working for AG Barr as a Quality Technologist for 9 months after graduating, I then joined Strathclyde in the Centre for Food Quality, led by Dr John R Piggott, where I worked for 4 years. We studied the chemical and sensory attributes of different foods and drinks: Wine, rum, cheese, soft drinks and Scotch whisky. It was Scotch whisky that really grabbed my attention, and although I loved academia, writing papers and doing a bit of teaching, it was Scotch whisky that fascinated me, and I realised that the Whisky Industry was where I wanted to be.
Why did you choose Strathclyde?
I was interested in science and food and realised that Strathclyde had the perfect course for me. I was determined to have a degree that would lead to useful employment!
Where are you now?
Stephanie has been named Master Blender of the Year six times!
I applied for a Quality role at John Dewar & Sons Ltd (Bacardi’s Scotch whisky company) in 1998, and rapidly worked my way to leading the laboratory and setting up the company’s first sensory panel. My role expanded and I began to also lead the Spirit Preparation team. Then in 2003, I was asked if I would like to train to be the Master Blender, to succeed the current blender when he retired. I was overjoyed, and agreed almost at once. In 2006 I took on the role, the 7th Master Blender and the first woman in the company’s long history since 1846. I’m now the Director of Blending, Scotch Whisky at Bacardi – I’m based in our headquarters in Glasgow, but I travel quite a bit around the world.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
I was fortunate to know what I wanted to do early on in my career - thanks to Strathclyde. There have been a few highlights in my 26 year career with Bacardi, but the most recent was being made a Company Director in 2023, but the most satisfying aspects of my career have always involved building teams – seeing people grow is so rewarding.
What are your ambitions for the future?
As the first female Master Blender for Dewar’s, I’m determined not to be the last and so I want to ensure that my team of Blenders, inventory and casks specialist remain as diverse as possible, to ensure that our Scotch whiskies are enjoyed and talked about by the next generation of whisky appreciators.
