When your job title is “Head of Whisky Outreach,” it’s not just work—it’s a way of life. Ewan Morgan, born in Dufftown, Scotland, the so-called Malt Whisky Capital of the World, knows this better than anyone. With a family legacy steeped in whisky production, Morgan’s journey through the world of Scotch has been nothing short of extraordinary.
A Legacy of Whisky
Morgan’s roots in whisky run deep. His father worked as the maltings manager at Tamdhu Distillery, while his grandfather brewed at Cardhu Distillery. Morgan himself began as a maltman before rising to become one of the industry’s most respected experts. Now, as Diageo’s Head of Whisky Outreach and National Luxury Ambassador, he manages an enviable collection of rare Scotch casks.
His career has taken him around the globe, but Scotland remains his heartland. This year, Morgan visited the country seven times, often making stops at its most iconic distilleries.
A Historic Revival: Port Ellen Distillery
One of Morgan’s most cherished moments in 2024 was attending the reopening of Port Ellen Distillery on the Isle of Islay. The distillery had been shuttered since 1983, but its recent revival brought joy to whisky enthusiasts worldwide.
“Watching the first casks being filled, alongside workers who were there when it closed, was unforgettable,” Morgan shared. “Port Ellen is an icon, and its reopening felt like a sleeping giant coming back to life.”
The Isle of Islay, renowned for its peated whiskies, holds a special place in Morgan’s heart. He lived there in his younger years and witnessed firsthand how locals revered the distillery’s legacy.
Festive Favorites for the Holidays
For the holiday season, Morgan recommends Johnnie Walker Ice Chalet, a limited-edition release with a silky texture and notes of sea-salted vanilla. “It’s perfect for après-ski,” he says.
On the single malt front, Morgan is particularly excited about the Oban 10-Year-Old Coastal Orchard, part of the 2024 Special Releases Collection. Finished in charred American oak barrels seasoned with Oloroso sherry, it features notes of baked apple and sea breeze.
Where Does Morgan Drink in Scotland?
With his extensive travels, Morgan has developed a list of favorite spots across Scotland:
- Dufftown: Known as the Malt Whisky Capital of the World, this town holds personal and professional significance for Morgan.
- Isle of Islay: A pilgrimage site for whisky lovers, Islay’s distilleries are renowned for their smoky, peated expressions.
- Edinburgh’s whisky bars: Perfect for exploring new releases and rare finds.
Whisky Beyond the Glass
For Morgan, whisky is more than a drink—it’s an art, a science, and a connection to history. Whether he’s overseeing rare casks or revisiting the places where his journey began, Morgan’s passion for Scotch whisky continues to inspire.
