In celebration of International Women’s Day, the Spirit of Speyside is proud to spotlight the incredible women shaping the Spirit of Speyside Whisky School's 2025 programme. With a strong female presence across its leadership, committee and expert speakers, the Whisky School continues to champion diversity in the Scotch whisky industry.
Ann Miller, widely known as The Dram Queen, chairs the Whisky School Committee, bringing decades of experience and a passion for education to the role. A respected figure in the industry, Ann will open the 2025 school with a lecture on Speyside’s contribution to Scotch whisky, sharing her deep knowledge of the region’s rich distilling heritage.
Joining the committee this year are two new members, Helen Foord and Stephanie Murray, who bring fresh perspectives and expertise. Helen’s background in communications and marketing adds valuable insight, while Stephanie, who will lead a tasting session of the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival Awards Finalists, brings her hands-on experience as a whisky judge and expert.
The 2025 programme also features leading women in whisky delivering key lectures. Diane Stuart from Edrington will guide delegates through An Introduction to Sensory Appreciation and How to Taste, providing hands-on experience in whisky tasting and evaluation. Rhiann Ferguson, Blender at John Dewar & Sons, will explore The creation of single malts and blended Scotch whiskies, offering insights into the delicate art of blending, alongside tasting samples.
Speaking about the importance of highlighting female voices in whisky, Committee Chair Ann Miller said:
“The whisky industry has historically been male-dominated, but we are seeing more talented women shaping its future. The Whisky School is a space where passion, knowledge and craft come together, and I’m proud to see so many inspiring women leading the way this year. It’s vital that we continue to champion diversity in whisky, ensuring the next generation feels welcome and represented.”
The Spirit of Speyside Whisky School offers an immersive four-day experience, covering the full spectrum of whisky-making, from barley and malting to fermentation, distillation, maturation and blending, alongside guided tastings and technical distillery visits. With experts from across the industry, including a significant representation of women in leadership and educational roles, the school provides a welcoming and inclusive environment for all whisky enthusiasts and professionals.
The 2025 Whisky School takes place from 27th to 30th April in Elgin, Speyside, as part of the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival. Limited places remaining, secure your spot today: https://tikt.link/whiskyschool25
