The Balvenie partners with Michel Roux Jr

Single malt Scotch The Balvenie has collaborated with Le Gavroche chef Michel Roux Jr on a short film series that highlights the importance of craftsmanship.

Michel Roux Jr with knife maker Will Ferraby

“The Craftsmen’s Dinner” project saw Roux Jr visit five craftsmen and women who are experts in their field, from a salmon smoker and a knife maker to an English sparkling winemaker, to distill the true meaning of craftsmanship.

The six-part series will go live on YouTube in fortnightly installments running from March to May culminating in a dinner whipped up by Roux Jr for each of his subjects using the five products created by the show’s stars.

“I have tremendous respect for people who dedicate the years required to mastering and perfecting their trade, so it was a fantastic experience to work with The Balvenie on this project, and to meet such talented individuals,” said Roux Jr.

The films reveal the obsessive passion needed to become a master in your craft. Sheffield-based Will Ferraby spends days crafting his prized knives, which are so sharp that they slice a tomato in two when dropped from a height.

Meanwhile, eccentric salmon smoker Ole Hansen plays piano music to his produce as he believes it adds flavour and depth to the taste of the fish.

“Celebrating exceptional craftsmanship is at the heart of everything we do for The Balvenie, so it’s a privilege to work with Michel Roux Jr and these six individuals who capture the heart of our brand ethos,” said The Balvenie’s senior brand manager Jonny Cornthwaite.

The films, produced by Rogan Productions, shot by director of photography Robert Hollingworth and directed by Ed McGown, will be released at on YouTube from 15 March to 24 May. For a sneak peek, see the trailer below. Last year The Balvenie partnered with American chef Anthony Bourdain on a similar project exploring the art of craftsmanship.