Whisky School day five, graduation day

The culmination of our studies and work all week long came together on graduation day.  We wrote our test, took it up as a group and our marks were revealed to us.  Our class all passed.  We were the second graduating class of 2013.  I graduated from Whisky School on my 45th birthday.

My friend Doug Ratz, did all the initial research for the school, arranged for the travel, and I got to come along for the ride.  It was a once in a lifetime chance to be able to take a trip and have an opportunity like this!  Doug and I have been getting into mischief (sic) for almost 30 years now, and this was just one more life event that we have been able to share together.

It was an honour and a privilege to be at Springbank Distillery for the week.  Gavin McLachlan is to be commended for the professionalism of his staff.  Frank McHardy made the learning fun.  His vast experiences in the distillery world was imparted to us, and for this opportunity I shall be forever grateful.

My classmates during the week were Doug Ratz, Carina Mian and Alex Mermillod.  As a group, we bonded very quickly, developed a great sense of camaraderie and established some inside jokes!  Watch out Campbeltown,  the 10 year reunion tour is already in the works 🙂

I would be remiss if I did not also thank my family.  In part, this trip was a birthday present from them to me, and it brought a dream of a lifetime to being, the chance to finally visit Scotland.

My grad picture.