For Stuart Fear, being honoured as a Keeper of the Quaich is a defining moment in his whisky journey, which began far from Scottish shores, during his university days in Taiwan.
A passion for attending whisky tastings and events led to writing a blog, sharing his experiences, and attracting local attention. A prominent Taiwanese whisky influencer
recommended him for a brand ambassador role with Chivas Brothers, which led to his
current position with Brown-Forman.
Fear represents The Glendronach, a distillery highly regarded for its time-honoured
commitment to sherry cask maturation. “The Glendronach doesn’t need a ‘Sherry Cask Edition’,” he explains.
“Every drop we’ve made since 1826 has been aged exclusively in Spanish sherry oak, long
before it was fashionable. “That’s what gives our whisky its rich, robust character—berries, Seville oranges, and a long, luxurious finish.”
What do you find most rewarding about introducing Scotch to novices and aficionados alike?
Whisky can reach deep and leave a lasting impression. Some whiskies make you go ‘wow’, others bring a smile, and a few might even surprise you. For novices, the first time they taste a flavour beyond just the whisky is when they truly understand it. My job is to bridge the distillery’s history and craft with each guest, sparking a passion for the spirit I love most.
What is the biggest misconception about Scotch?
That you must drink it neat. As with eating steak, no one should dictate how you should
enjoy your whisky. Add ice if it’s hot. If you want it refreshing, add soda, or even make it a cocktail. However, to taste a whisky for the first time, start neat, then add a drop of water. This lets the flavours open up over time.
How do sherry cask-matured whiskies like The Glendronach appeal to different Asian markets?
Using the same methods we have followed for nearly 200 years, The Glendronach has set a global standard in whisky production. Many brands have embraced sherry cask maturation, but The Glendronach proudly calls itself a sherry cask connoisseur, having mastered the technique since 1826.
Asia, in particular, is mad for sherry cask whisky, a passion that has driven many distilleries to release exclusive sherry cask editions specifically for this market. The Glendronach doesn’t need this distinction. While others may be experimenting, we’ve been refining this craft for generations.
How do you see whisky making evolving?
There is innovation throughout the industry: barley varieties, yeasts, distillation methods, cask types, blending methods. The whisky industry has the ability to adapt and constantly evolve to keep old fans excited and to attract the new generation.
Our previous innovations were the introduction of peated malt to create a unique Highland smoke aroma, and the use of port wine casks to add an extra layer of fruit… There are some exciting new expressions to come in the near future.
