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Rod Stewart honoured by whisky society
Tonight, rockstar and whisky brand owner Sir Rod Stewart will be honoured by the Keepers of the Quaich at a ceremony held in Blair Castle, Perthshire.
The singer-song writer, known for hits such as Maggie May and Sailing only got into the Scotch whisky business last year with the launch of Wolfie’s Whisky, a blended whisky that is distilled, blended and bottled at Loch Lomond distillery in Alexandria, Scotland.
However, despite being a relative newcomer to the drinks industry, the 79-year-old Grammy and Brit Award winner has now got another achievement to add to his list, as this evening he will be named an Honorary Keeper of the Quaich at the 68th Keepers of the Quaich Autumn 2024 Banquet.
The Keepers of the Quaich takes its name from a traditional Scottish drinking vessel (which can be used for whisky, though they are generally more for decorative purposes than practical). Twice a year, the society holds an induction ceremony at Blair Castle, parts of which date back to the mid-13th century, to recognise those who have played a role in the promotion of Scotch whisky.
Formed in 1988 at the behest of the likes of Ballantine’s, Justerini & Brooks, Chivas Brothers, Edrington and United Distillers, the Keepers of the Quaich has previously honoured the likes of US President Ronald Reagan and the then-Prince of Wales, now King Charles III. According to the organisation, there are 3,093 enrolled Keepers (most of whom work in the industry) and 261 enrolled Masters across more than 100 countries.
This time, it’s Rod the Mod’s turn. Though born in London, beyond his new whisky venture, Stewart is certainly proud of his Scottish roots, often donning a kilt on Hogmanay, and he is known to be a big Celtic FC fan.
“Sir Rod is one of the greatest ambassadors for Scotland and we are honoured he has accepted our invitation to attend the banquet and to be inducted as an Honorary Keeper of the Quaich,” said a spokesperson for the organisation.
Stewart was similarly excited, telling the Sunday Mail: “I am absolutely over the moon to receive this award – it’s an honour and a privilege which I don’t take lightly. Thank you to the Keepers Of The Quaich. Slàinte Mhath.”
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