Ardbeg has announced Colin Gordon will take over as its new distillery manager come October 1, 2020. He follows in the footsteps of current Distillery Manager Mickey Heads, who will retire after 13 years at the helm
Gordon brings a wealth of Whisky industry experience from his eight years at Diageo. His substantial knowledge of distillery production has been gained through a number of roles at the company, includings a stint as Site Operations Manager at the Port Ellen Maltings, which provides barley to eight of the 10 Islay distilleries. More recently, he was based at the Lagavulin Distillery on Islay as the Distillery Manager.
While Mickey Heads is leaving his post as Distillery Manager, he will continue in his role as Chair of the Ardbeg Committee, the worldwide army of Ardbeg fans.
“I’ve known Colin for a long time and I can’t think of a more worthy successor,” said Heads. “He’s joining a brilliant team whom I know will welcome him warmly and make him feel at home. As I continue as Chair of the Committee – and indeed, as just one of a legion of Ardbeg fans – I look forward to enjoying the fruits of his labours for years to come.”
Pete Nelson, Operations Director, statd, “We’re delighted Colin is joining to lead the team at the Ardbeg Distillery. His knowledge will help take Ardbeg forward and shape the future of the Distillery. We have lots of exciting new expressions in the pipeline and Colin will play a major role in crafting those.”
“Ardbeg is an iconic name in whisky with an immense reputation. I’m absolutely delighted to be joining an experienced team producing such an exceptional dram,” glowed Gordon.
“Ardbeg has built a reputation for producing amazing whiskies with Mickey Heads at the helm. He is a huge name in the industry and will be a very hard act to follow. It’s a privilege to be chosen to take over the reins from him. Islay has been our home for five years and to be given the honour of overseeing the running of Ardbeg is very special indeed. I will do my very best to protect and enhance the reputation of the distillery and ensure it keeps producing the world class spirit of Ardbeg.”
