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EXPERIENCES & CURATION
Charles MacLean, a recipient of the MBE in 2021 for his contributions to Scotch whisky, holds the esteemed title of Master of the Quaich. With his extensive knowledge and expertise, he is widely recognized as a preeminent global authority on the subject. Having authored 19 books on whisky, including his renowned work "Malt Whisky" published in 1997, he is hailed by the BBC as the esteemed figure in the realm of whisky writers. Additionally, he made his silver screen debut in Ken Loach's 2012 film "The Angel's Share."
Charlie takes great pleasure in welcoming our guests for whisky tastings or distillery tours, regardless of their level of expertise or passion for whisky. He ensures that each individual's whisky experience aligns perfectly with their preferences, whether they seek a lighthearted and enjoyable time or a deep exploration of the diverse and intricate world of Scotland's beloved national drink. Charlie's unparalleled knowledge of the industry's history and heritage, as well as its colorful personalities, sets him apart. Moreover, his warm and engaging personality makes him exceptional company for any whisky enthusiast.
The proper drinking of Scotch whisky is more than indulgence:
it is a toast to civilization, a tribute to the continuity of culture, a manifesto of man’s determination to use the resources of nature to refresh mind and body and enjoy to the full the senses with which he has been endowed.” - David Daiches
With a constantly increasing number of malt and grain distilleries, currently exceeding 130, Scotland stands as a thriving hub for the whisky industry. This growth is fuelled by the global demand for Scotch whisky, which has solidified its position as one of the United Kingdom's premier exports. Among the diverse range of distilleries found in Scotland, one can discover renowned establishments owned by industry giants, as well as exciting newcomers known as the "new wave" of distilleries. Notable among these is Ardnamurchan, Scotland's most westerly mainland distillery, led by Alex Bruce in the role of Managing Director.
Scotland's distilleries are categorised into five renowned whisky regions: Highland, Speyside, Islay, Lowland, and Campbeltown, each with its own distinctive style and flavor profile. Every distillery holds a unique character, resulting in a wide array of whisky offerings. At MacLean and Bruce, under the expert guidance of Charles MacLean and our extensive network of connections throughout Scotland, we have the privilege of accessing all of these distilleries. This allows us to curate private and unforgettable experiences for our guests who join us on whisky journeys across Scotland.
At MacLean & Bruce, we take great pride in our extensive network across Scotland, enabling us to offer unparalleled support in selecting and curating casks from distilleries throughout all whisky regions. Our directors, Charles MacLean and Victoria Bruce, bring invaluable experience and strong industry connections. Vikki’s decade with Adelphi Distillery, including her key role in establishing their Ardnamurchan distillery, further strengthens her expertise. Additionally, our family estate’s storage and bottling facilities in Fife add to her comprehensive knowledge.
With our team’s deep expertise, passion for whisky, and robust industry ties, we guide clients through the intricate world of whisky casks, crafting truly unique whisky experiences.
With the launch of our MacLean & Bruce independent bottling series, we now offer a fully tailored service to meet our clients' preferences. Alongside Charlie, we assist with every step of the process—selecting, nosing, tasting, purchasing, bottling, and exporting—based on specific requirements. Whether for personal enjoyment, gifting, or commemorating special occasions, we create personalized bottles and help source rare and aged whiskies from both renowned distilleries and emerging producers.
Our approach is flexible and entirely customized to each client's needs, ensuring a bespoke whisky experience that exceeds expectations.
We pride ourselves on bringing together all the essential elements to create an unforgettable whisky experience: unrivalled access, extensive knowledge and expertise, the ability to access and select exceptional casks and bottles, and the logistical support and connections to make it all come together seamlessly.
For those seeking an immersive journey, we offer the opportunity to explore whisky in its homeland, Scotland.
Engage with the spirit, immerse yourself in its natural milieu, and have a truly enjoyable and educational experience. Elevate your experience, by allowing us to include the finest of culinary experiences which showcase the incredible food and breathtaking destinations that Scotland has to offer.
We extend a warm invitation for you to join us on a bespoke whisky journey where we will create an exceptional whisky experience that exceeds your expectations.
Owning a cask of Scotch whisky is an exciting and potentially rewarding journey, offering a unique connection to Scotland’s rich whisky heritage. However, navigating the process requires careful consideration and expertise.
At MacLean & Bruce, we provide expert guidance every step of the way, ensuring that you make informed decisions and safeguard your investment. From selecting the right cask to understanding the nuances of storage, maturation, and eventual bottling, we are here to make the process seamless and enjoyable.
Trust us to help you explore this extraordinary opportunity with confidence and clarity, ensuring your whisky experience is as rewarding as it is memorable.
