Colin Gordon named as new Ardbeg distillery production manager

In October of this year, Mickey Heads, Ardbeg's Distillery Manager will retire after 13 years at the helm - leaving big boots (as well as casks) to fill at the Islay distillery.

Now Ardbeg is happy to announce the appointment of Mickey's successor - Colin Gordon - who is joining as Distillery Production Manager. Colin will report into Pete Nelson, Operations Director.

Colin brings a wealth of whisky industry experience from his eight years at Diageo. His substantial knowledge of distillery production has been gained through a number of roles at the company. These include a stint as Site Operations Manager at the Port Ellen Maltings, which provides barley to eight of the 10 Islay distilleries. More recently, Colin was based at the Lagavulin Distillery on Islay as the Distillery Manager.

Colin is joining on 1 October 2020. Meanwhile, although Mickey Heads is leaving his post as Distillery Manager, he has agreed to continue in his role as Chair of the Ardbeg Committee, the worldwide army of Ardbeg fans.

Pete Nelson, Operations Director, said: "We're delighted Colin is joining to lead the team at the Ardbeg Distillery. His knowledge will help take Ardbeg forward and shape the future of the distillery. We have lots of exciting new expressions in the pipeline and Colin will play a major role in crafting those."

Mickey Heads said: "I've known Colin for a long time and I can't think of a more worthy successor. He's joining a brilliant team whom I know will welcome him warmly and make him feel at home. As I continue as Chair of the Committee – and indeed, as just one of a legion of Ardbeg fans - I look forward to enjoying the fruits of his labours for years to come."

Colin Gordon said: "Ardbeg is an iconic name in whisky with an immense reputation. I'm absolutely delighted to be joining an experienced team producing such an exceptional dram.

"Ardbeg has built a reputation for producing amazing whiskies with Mickey Heads at the helm. He is a huge name in the industry and will be a very hard act to follow. It's a privilege to be chosen to take over the reins from him. Islay has been our home for five years and to be given the honour of overseeing the running of Ardbeg is very special indeed. I will do my very best to protect and enhance the reputation of the distillery and ensure it keeps producing the world-class spirit of Ardbeg."