THE Isle of Mull can lay claim to one of the world’s youngest distillery managers after 27-year-old Cara Gilbert took the reins at Tobermory Distillery.
Cara, originally from Clackmannanshire, graduated Heriot Watt University with a degree in biological science in 2017, before completing a diploma and master’s degree in brewing and distilling. She then worked at William Grant & Sons’ Tullamore Distillery in Ireland, before relocating to Islay to become process lead at Distell’s Bunnahabhain distillery.
She joined Tobermory – which is also owned by Distell – earlier this year, becoming assistant manager shortly afterwards. As distillery manager she will oversee the production of more than a million litres of whisky and gin every year, working with master distiller Brendan McCarron.
“It’s an honour to be given the opportunity take on this role, helping to etch the next chapter for such a historic distillery,” said Cara.
“In my head, I always knew I wanted to be in a managerial position before I was 30 and a combination of hard work, seizing every opportunity thrown my way and learning from the best has made this vision a reality.
“I’ve worked with so many inspirational people over the last five years and have joined an incredible team.
“Being able to create unbelievable malts, a range of island inspired gin and our more peated Ledaig brand means no two days will ever be the same – with the added benefits of living and working on this gorgeous island.
“It’s been an incredible journey, but I know the best is yet to come.”
McCarron said Cara is “going to do amazing things”.
