The Australian chapter of the Keepers of the Quaich united this month for the first time since 2019 to celebrate the Scotch whisky category’s success.

The event, themed ‘United By Nature,’ brought together industry leaders, Scotch whisky houses and society members to connect, celebrate, collaborate and inspire the future of Scotch whisky in Australia.

Founded in 1988 by dedicated Scotch Whisky distillers, the Keepers of the Quaich is an exclusive international society that exists to educate, celebrate and grow the Scotch whisky category globally.

Originating in Scotland, the organisation has expanded to include 10 international chapters, covering the US, the Nordics, Denmark, Germany, India, Turkey, the UAE, Brazil, and South Africa.

Represented in more than 100 countries, the society has inducted over 3000 Keepers in its lifetime, including honorary members such as His Royal Highness King Charles and Ronald Reagan. In Australia, notable members include John Howard and Lindsay Fox.

Held at the beautifully transformed Linseed House at The Grounds of Alexandria, the ‘United By Nature’ event featured an immersive Scottish experience. The evening began with a warm welcome from William Grant & Sons Managing Director Australia New Zealand Colin Rochester (above), who is Chair of The Keepers of the Quaich Australia & New Zealand.

The Quaich, a traditional Scottish drinking vessel, was ceremoniously bagpiped in, setting a reverent tone for the evening.

Guests were treated to an exceptional selection of whiskies from six leading Scotch Whisky producers, including a one-off bottling of Glenfarclas 25yo Single Cask, crafted exclusively for the event, Laphroaig 25yo, Macallan Rare Cask, Johnnie Walker Blue Label, The Balvenie 16 Year Old French Oak Pineau Cask, Glenlivet 18yo, and The Glendronach 18yo.

Each dram was expertly paired with a sensory food experience, curated by Chef Paul McGrath, Group Executive Chef of The Grounds of Alexandria.

The venue was adorned with large format projections showcasing the richness and unique flora of the Scottish landscape. Through storytelling, sight, scent, touch, and taste, guests explored each brand’s whisky in a series of unique and crafted moments, highlighting the journey of water, grain, and wood – the three ingredients that unite all Scotch Whisky.

Left to Right: Jordan Gogos, Fashion Designer; Samantha Blanchon, Senior Brand Manager, Luxury Whisky – William Grant & Sons; Ross Blainey, Brand Ambassador, Glenfiddich – William Grant & Sons; Louise Cantillon, British Consul General & Deputy Trade Commissioner Asia Pacific; Colin Rochester., MD AUS & NZ, William Grant & Sons, and Chair of The Keepers of the Quaich AUS & NZ

The event was attended by Australian members of the Keepers of the Quaich, representatives from six leading global Scotch Whisky houses, and key industry figures, including Louise Cantillon, British Consul General & Deputy Trade Commissioner Asia Pacific and Ticky Fullerton, CEO of the Australia British Chamber of Commerce.

The evening also attracted notable special guests such as multidisciplinary artist and designer Jordan Gogos and acclaimed chef Lennox Hastie, owner of the renowned Firedoor restaurant. These influential figures, along with media representatives and other industry leaders, came together to celebrate the evening in style.

Rochester, Managing Director of William Grant & Sons Australia and a Master Keeper, has been a recognised leader in the Australian market for over 30 years. As Chair of the Keepers Chapter in Australia and New Zealand, and Vice Chair of Spirits & Cocktails Australia, he has promoted the industry’s interests with unwavering enthusiasm. Under his leadership, William Grant & Sons Australia has tripled in size over the past nine years.

“Uniting as Keepers of the Quaich in Australia was a truly special moment, and it was an honour to see such a diverse group of passionate individuals and industry leaders come together to celebrate our shared love for Scotch Whisky,” he said.

“The evening was a testament to the enduring legacy and vibrant future of Scotch Whisky in Australia. The unique experiences and the spirit of collaboration on display made this night one to remember, and I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve achieved together.”

Rochester told Drinks Digest that given the positive response to the event he was confident that the industry would gather again every few years.

“It was a great success and a real celebration of Scotch whisky and its contribution to the overall Australian spirits industry. Competition in the drinks industry is always fierce, so when the great Scotch Whisky houses come together with a common goal to share brand stories and brand heritage, for the good of the category – it’s a great thing to be part of!”

The ‘United By Nature’ event was created and managed by Yakusan Brand Experience Group, with drinks and cocktail service by Fever-Tree.