Honoured: David Stewart.

The longest serving Malt Master in the Scotch whisky industry has been recognised with an MBE [Member of the British Empire] in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours list.

The Balvenie’s Malt Master, David Stewart, was acknowledged for services to the Scotch whisky industry after nearly 54 years in it. Stewart introduced some pioneering techniques that have had a major impact on Scotch whisky, especially single malts.

According to Balvenie owner, independent family-owned distiller William Grant & Sons, he is renowned for “ground-breaking work particularly around ‘cask finishes’ for The Balvenie and has developed a number of award-winning whiskies”.

In October, WGS recognised Stewart’s services with the launch of the first of five exclusive DCS whisky sets dedicated to the malt master – including a travel retail exclusive. The initial set retails for more than $40,000.

ONE OF ONLY 12 MALT MASTERS

Stewart is one of only 12 malt masters in the Scotch whisky industry, a small band of master craftsmen – and he is the longest-serving of them.

Stella David, outgoing Chief Executive of WGS, comments: “David’s innovative approach and total dedication to his craft, coupled with his modest, unassuming manner have made him one of the best loved and respected craftsmen in the business. This honour is testament to the fact that David is one of the greatest master blenders of a generation. Not that he would ever admit it himself.”