ONE of Scotch whisky’s most well-known faces has been recognised for his services to the industry in the Queen’s birthday honours list.
Writer and ambassador Charles MacLean has been awarded an MBE in the latest honours for his services to Scotch whisky, UK exports and charity.
A world-renowned authority on Scotch whisky, MacLean has been writing about the spirit for over 40 years. During this time he has authored more than 18 books on the subject and hosted events to promote the spirit in countries across the world. He is a master of the Quaich and last year create a charity blended malt along with sons Ewan, Jamie and Lachlan. The three brothers became the youngest trio to ever row the Atlantic in January of last year.
“It is a tremendous honour to be recognised by The Queen for a career dedicated to a personal passion – Scotch whisky,” he said.
“It has been and continues to be a joy to write on this special subject, and when I turned in my first article in 1981, I could not have imagined the events that would unfold over the next four decades.
“This honour is one of my proudest moments, and it has been a challenge to keep it a secret from my nearest and dearest, but I am very much looking forward to celebrating with them where more than a few whiskies will likely be enjoyed.
“After being there to welcome my sons in Antigua after their 35-day charity row across the Atlantic, I can’t say this is my proudest moment – but it’s certainly up there!”
