The Keepers of the Quaich recently welcomed Jackie Matai, Co-Founder, Aspri Spirits Pvt Ltd, as a Keeper of the Quaich by virtue of his personal contribution and commitment to Scotch whisky. The Society also inducted 41 other members as Keepers of the Quaich and four Masters of the Quaich from 17 countries. Masters are those who, since being inducted as a Keeper over ten years ago, have made an exceptional contribution to Scotch whisky and to the Keepers.
The Keepers of the Quaich met at the Blair Castle, the ancient home of the Earls and Dukes of Antholl, and the spiritual home of the Keepers of the Quaich in Scotland. The Grand Master of the Keepers, Paul Walsh, CEO, Diageo plc, presided over the ceremony and banquet. Richard Peck, Secretary, Royal Warrant Holders Association, was the Guest of Honour and speaker of the ceremony. Others present at the ceremony were The Earl of Dalhousie, Viscount and Viscountess Thurso and Lord and Lady Macfarlane, The Lord Bruce; Mc Culloch, Chairman of Muculloh Unique Hotels; and Peter Lederer, Chairman of Gleneagles Hotel and Board Member of the Scotch Whisky Experience.
Matai said, “It is a privilege and an honour to be inducted as Keepers of the Quaich and to be recognised for the contribution towards the development and progress of Scotch whisky in India. My efforts will continue to serve the Scotch whisky industry in the years to come and I hope that I will be able to motivate more individuals to work towards the development of Scotch whisky.” 16 countries were represented at the occasion.
The Society was founded to represent the Scotch whisky industry worldwide, and promotes the goodwill of the industry and honours those who have made a significant contribution to it. In order to maintain the exclusivity of The Keepers, the Society includes only a limited number of new Keepers each year, and only in Scotland. There are now 2,172 Keepers of the Quaich and 154 Masters of the Quaich worldwide. Members of the Society come from 86 countries.