Wizards of Whisky : John Campbell

“John Campbell started off his whisky career in the warehouse of Laphroaig stencilling numbers on the whisky barrels. He would stick his hand up till he basically got an opportunity to be a part of every process in the making of whisky. 5 years later in 1999 he became the assistant distiller. 2006 January was when he made his mark and became the Master Distiller at Laphroaig and had been there for the next 20 plus years of his career. He was responsible for overseeing the production of Laphroaig’s world-renowned single malt whisky, which is known for its distinctive smoky, peaty flavour.

Under Campbell’s leadership, Laphroaig continued to produce high-quality, award-winning whiskies, and the distillery became a popular destination for whisky enthusiasts from around the world. Campbell is also known for his outgoing personality and his willingness to share his knowledge and passion for whisky with others.

In addition to his work at Laphroaig, Campbell has also been involved in the Islay Festival of Malt and Music, an annual event that celebrates the island’s whisky and culture. He has also been recognised for his contributions to the whisky industry, receiving the Icons of Whisky Scotland award for Distillery Manager of the Year in 2017.

John Campbell has now moved on from Laphroaig and is currently the Production Director and Master Blender at Lochlea Distillery. (Credits – thewhiskywash.com, wordsofwhisky.com)

A true wizard of whisky in our books for the exquisite liquids he has created and for sharing his knowledge and passion with whisky enthusiasts around the world.”