James Mackay is one of the world’s foremost rare whisky and fine spirits specialists, with a 30 year career spanning both independent consultancy as well as positions with industry leaders, most recently with a nine-year stint as Global Private Client Director and Head of Rare & Exceptional Spirits for Diageo PLC, the world’s largest producer of single malt Scotch whisky.
During his tenure at Diageo he developed ‘Casks of Distinction’ into the industry’s most successful private cask programme, overseeing the company’s relations with HNWI collectors and family offices globally.
Using his industry knowledge and contact network, James helps his clients to build, value, curate and care for their collections of rare whisky and other fine spirits. He is especially well placed to source and advise on private whisky cask acquisition for his clients, who tend to find them of particular use in their entertainment, gifting and philanthropic activities.
Through his connections in Scotland and the whisky industry, James can also open doors for clients to access exclusive lifestyle clubs and experiences, normally open only to industry-insiders.
James is based in Edinburgh, Scotland, and travels extensively in Asia, Middle-East and Americas to meet with his clients. As a recognized and awarded industry figure, he has written articles and given interviews published by titles including Financial Times, BBC, The Week, and Robb Report.
Leading global expert in rare and collectible whisky, with 30+ years in the industry.
Specialist in single cask Scotch whisky, including identification, evaluation, and cask selection.
Creator and developer of Diageo’s Casks of Distinction, the industry’s most successful private cask programme.
Deep experience advising HNWI whisky collectors and managing luxury whisky portfolios.
Strategic advisor on whisky investment, acquisitions, and market positioning.
Active industry figure through the Worshipful Company of Distillers and major rare whisky charity auctions.
Oxford University (1993) – Philosophy & Experimental Psychology (BA and MA)
Wine & Spirits Education Trust (WSET) Level 3 with Distinction (2001)
‘Keeper of the Quaich’ (2022): A lifetime honour recognising outstanding contributions to the Scotch Whisky Industry
Spears 500 Top Recommended Whisky Adviser
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