Considered the greatest whisky maker of his generation, Richard Paterson is admired across the globe for his artistry, passion and flair when it comes to whisky making.
Richard Paterson is widely regarded as the greatest whisky maker of his generation, celebrated globally for his artistry, passion, and flair. With over 50 years in the industry—most of it with The Dalmore—he has been the driving creative force behind the distillery, continuing the rich legacy of the Mackenzie family.
A true pioneer, Paterson’s deep expertise and rare understanding of cask maturation have redefined the category of super luxury single malts. He elevated multi-cask aging to new heights, leading to landmark creations like The Dalmore King Alexander III—the world’s first single malt finished in six different casks.
Joining Whyte & Mackay, The Dalmore’s parent company, in 1970, he became Master Blender at just 26. Decades later, he remains custodian of some of Scotland’s oldest and rarest whisky stocks.
Known as “The Nose,” Paterson once had his sense of smell insured for $2.5 million—a testament to his extraordinary skill and legacy in whisky making.
