Dr Barrie has more than 27 years’ experience in the industry and is currently the master blender for Brown-Forman’s scotch whisky portfolio including The GlenDronach, BenRiach and Glenglassaugh. 

The Keepers of the Quaich is an international society established by the scotch whisky industry to celebrate the commitment of those who produce and promote the spirit.

Last year Dr Barrie was the first female scotch whisky master blender to receive an Honorary Doctorate and be inducted into Whisky Magazine’s ‘Hall of Fame’.

Dr Barrie studied chemistry at the University of Edinburgh and begun as a research scientist at the Scotch Whisky Research Institute. She then moved into production at The Glenmorangie Company, becoming master blender in 2003.

During this time she also managed the stocks for the Scotch Malt Whisky Society, before moving to Morrison Bowmore Distillers with Bowmore, Auchentoshan and Glen Garioch, working latterly with Laphroaig and Ardmore.

Dr Barrie was then appointed master blender at Brown Forman in 2017 and on the night of the ceremony, she said: “Being inducted as a Keeper of the Quaich is a very proud moment in my career.

“The society brings together those leading the way in scotch whisky from all corners of the world, and to be part of this highly revered body is an honour, as we continue to push boundaries in perfecting our magnificent spirit.

“My ambition has always been to unlock the secrets of scotch whisky making and provenance, to develop and nurture richness of character and celebrate it with the world; it’s an honour to be recognised for this and to be in such esteemed company.”