Keeping the distillery running and producing the spirit is an integral part of Archie Duncan's role as Distiller. In this Meet Our Team blog, we discover how Archie became the newest member of our distilling team.
What made you decide to work at The Cairn?
To have this opportunity on my doorstep, having grown up in nearby Glenlivet, to further my distilling career and work in a beautiful location almost seemed too good to be true!
I joined the distillery team of Mhairi, Wayne and Ali not long after they had the first spirit run and hit the ground running. Previously I worked at a very small, manual distillery in Speyside, so The Cairn couldn't be more opposite! I've been able to learn and grow so much already in a short time and with the team all focused on the same goal, it's been easy to fit in and make myself at home.
The Cairn is an inspirational place - what has it encouraged you to do?
Since joining The Cairn I have learned so much. This has inspired me to broaden my horizons, travel to new places and has motivated me to keep learning and growing my knowledge. Being able to be part of something from (very nearly) the beginning and shaping the future of both the company and of The Cairn whiskies is an opportunity very rarely found.
What is your favourite whisky from The Cairn?
My favourite dram from the CRN57° range is the 12 years old, I prefer this lighter, sweeter style with chocolate and orange notes - hopefully the single malts of the future follow suit!
What do you like to do in your own time?
When I'm not at work, you'll likely find me on the farm. Like Wayne, I grew up in and around farms so am always helping my friends with their cows and sheep. Living in Glenlivet means I have easy access to the bike trails there to burn off some energy, and I also play rugby for Moray Rugby Club.
