Q&A With George Grant, Glenfarclas

By Kurt Maitland

Those who know me know that I’ve been a fan of Glenfarclas for years. It was one of the first distilleries I ever visited in Scotland, and for me it is the epitome of what a Scottish distillery should be. Picturesque, well-run, and possessing a range without any substandard releases. They’ve managed to maintain the quality of their whiskies throughout and are a great Scotch for a beginner or a seasoned whisky veteran. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting George Grant of Glenfarclas several times, and this last time he took a moment to answer a few questions.

KM: For those in the know, Glenfarclas is widely considered to be one of world’s best whiskies. How would describe Glenfarclas to a newcomer to the world of Scotch?

GG: Glenfarclas is a fantastic all-round whisky with an amazing, body, palate and balance.

KM: I’ve always known you to be a well-traveled man, as likely to be a festival in Asia as you are to be at an event in the UK. In your opinion, what, if anything, has changed in the Asian markets in regards to Scotch whisky?

GG: The Asian market has changed in the more understanding of English, more well-travelled Chinese, better world understanding of international goods. Scotch whisky still has a very long way to go as imported spirits still only make up less than 0.5% of total spirits consumed in China

KM: With much of the Scotch industry expanding production and revamping their ranges, what do you see as the challenges for distilleries such as Glenfarclas in the future?

GG: Challenges are finding good partners in sales staff, and partners as in distributors. Planning is the biggest thing we have to do prepare for. Any changes required have to be planned for sometimes decades in advance.

KM: With increased production worldwide, what are your thoughts/concerns re the possibility of another “Whisky Lake,” like the crash of the 1970s and ’80s?

GG: If you can find the Glenfarclas loch please tell me where it is!

KM: With Glenfarclas having been in your family for 6 generations, what do you think makes Glenfarclas special in the whisk(e)y world?

GG: Exactly that, we are family-owned, we have family values. We do things our way.

KM: Do you have a Glenfarclas release that is your personal favorite?

GG: Glenfarclas Family Cask 1959, distilled on 25th December.

KM: Do you have favorite whiskies that aren’t Scotch and if so what are they?

GG: 12 year old Weller.