OPINION • 7 Paul Miles, SWMS managing director


PEARLS OF WISDOM


As the Society prepares to celebrate its pearl anniversary, marking 30 years since its formation in 1983, managing director Paul Miles shares his thoughts on what makes it special and what the future might hold


R


eflecting on 30 years of the Scotch Malt Whi s ky


Society, two particular achievements stand out for me. First, the fact the Society was born at all, at a time when malt whisky was unappreciated and hard to come by. Second, its success in keeping hold of that spirit of fun, adventure and curiosity that originally drove Pip Hills and his friends to buy their first cask. It was a visionary idea, but I doubt anyone


in that room on Scotland Street would have predicted what the Society would become; a hugely diverse, international group of friends, with the largest selection of single cask, single malt whiskies anywhere on earth. This more than anything is the spirit that has defined us over the years. We are a private members’ club, but we are passionately and resolutely inclusive. Love of great whisky transcends social and cultural barriers; it brings people together, allowing them to talk and learn more about each other through that common


Love of great


whisky transcends social and cultural barriers; it brings people together, allowing them to talk and learn more about each other


interest and passion. In the context of whisky consumption globally, we remain a relatively tiny organisation, though I like to think we punch above our weight. Even putting aside the awards and critical plaudits our bottlings receive, the


whisky world is now full of people with a deep personal connection to the Society, either as former staff or long- standing members. Listening to those


people, I am reassured the Society continues to be a force for good in people’s perceptions of malt whisky. But what of the next 30 years? I am convinced


the interest people have in malt whisky will continue to flourish, at home and across the world. It remains a unique spirit, fiercely proud of its authenticity and heritage, and it appeals to people of all backgrounds. As for the Society itself it is, perhaps, ironic


that a club born out of tradition and authenticity should have benefitted so much from new technology. From our iconic bottles and labels, to new ways of communicating with members – including our website, various social media and Unfiltered on the iPad – technology is helping us bring the Society to more people in more places than ever before. As has always been the case, the members


themsleves determine what the Society is and what it will become. To this end, we are determined to carry on


giving members what they look for; new experiences, a sense of adventure, knowledge, entertaining events, the chance to meet new people (and old friends) and, above all, exceptional whisky. I look forward to meeting and talking with many of you in the decades still to come.


WORLD VIEW THE SOCIETY BRANCHES


We asked some of the Society’s international branches what it means to them. Here’s what they had to say…


“The Society provides our members with the opportunity to mix with people they may not ordinarily meet and to experience our pairings of unique single malts with a variety of dishes at interesting venues. It ensures the single malt journey is an amazing sensory experience in a very personable environment.” Odette McMahon, South Africa


“Over the past 20 years since our launch in the US in 1993, the only thing that has been as impressive as the whiskies has been the delightful people we have come to know as members.”


Alan Shayne, USA


“Geographically, Australia is a long way from Scotland’s shores, but the Society goes a long way to bringing the two countries closer together!”


Andrew Derbidge, Australia


“The Society to us means celebrating whisky the way it deserves to be celebrated - straight out of the cask and in the good company of friends and fellow members of the Society.”


Ina Kraan, Switzerland


“We continue to love everything about the Society: the creativity, the fearlessness, the confidence, the SMWS people, the enthusiasm, our members and their growing camaraderie, and last but not least, the whiskies. Now if you’ll excuse us, we need a dram...or two.”


Kelly and Rob Carpenter, Canada


THE SCOTCH MALT WHISKY SOCIETY


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