Today Chivas Brothers, the Scotch whisky business of Pernod Ricard, announces that Kevin Balmforth will succeed Sandy Hyslop as Master Blender.
Sandy retires after more than 40 years at the forefront of Scotch whisky, having shaped some of the world’s most popular and acclaimed blends. He will continue to support the business as Master Blender Emeritus, ensuring a seamless transition for the team he has shaped over decades. In his new role, Sandy will continue to support Chivas Brothers’ most prestige whiskies and represent its brands around the world.
“It’s been a real honour and a privilege to contribute to the quality, innovation and heritage of Chivas Brothers alongside my team,” says Sandy. “For me, the joy of whisky making lies in pushing boundaries – uncovering new flavours and expressions that invite new audiences in, whilst staying true to Scotch’s legacy. Whisky has an incredible ability to bring people together, creating shared moments and connections across generations. Passing on the craft of blending is part of that same tradition. It has been the passion of a lifetime to teach and develop my team to continue that work. It is with great pride and confidence that I pass this privilege onto Kevin, who I have worked with for 20 years.”
Sandy joined the industry in 1983 at Stewart & Son of Dundee, where his meticulous palate quickly set him apart. For 42 years, Hyslop has been the creative force behind iconic brands including Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal, Royal Salute and a wide portfolio of single malt whiskies, ensuring their signature character remains consistent across decades, while nurturing a culture of precision, passion and mentorship within his team.
He’s built an unparalleled knowledge of the business’ whiskies, establishing himself as one of the most highly respected figures in the industry. On top of ensuring the quality and continuity of all Chivas Brothers whisky brands, Sandy has driven innovation during his tenure as Master Blender and among his many prestigious achievements, he has been instrumental in developing iconic products such as Royal Salute’s Polo and Fashion expressions, the Chivas Regal Extra Range, The Glenlivet Caribbean Reserve, Ballantine’s 7 years old and many more.
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Brian MacAulay, Production Director at Chivas Brothers: “Sandy’s legacy is distilled into every bottle he’s touched. His passion, attention to detail and generosity as a mentor have shaped our blending philosophy and left an enduring mark on the industry. We’re grateful for his continued guidance and expertise, celebrating this moment as an evolution as we welcome Kevin as Master Blender. Together with his exceptional team, Kevin will continue to push the boundaries of taste and craftsmanship, carrying forward the same creativity and mastery as his predecessors before him.”
Under Sandy’s leadership the blending team has grown, with each member upholding the meticulous standards and artistry that define Chivas Brothers’ whiskies. His legacy is in the strong team he leaves behind, including new Master Blender, Kevin Balmforth. Having been with the company for 25 years, Kevin has helped shape some of the business’s most recognisable whiskies.
Kevin Balmforth said: “It’s an incredible honour to follow in Sandy’s footsteps as Chivas Brothers’ Master Blender. I’ve had the privilege of learning from one of the industry’s true masters, and I’m committed to building on his legacy by exploring new dimensions of flavour while staying true to the heritage that makes our whiskies so distinctive.”
