Tutored tastings & bespoke whisky experiences

Welcome to the Dram Queen, Master of the Quaich, offering Scotch Whisky Expertise

Ann Miller, the Dram Queen, offers entertaining and informative independent whisky expertise based in Speyside, in the north east of Scotland.

During her career as an International Brand Ambassador in the Scotch whisky industry for over 30 years, mainly with Chivas Brothers, Ann travelled the world. She was responsible for communicating about a wide range of whisky brands as well as delivering in depth and bespoke training for guests from many countries.

Ann’s contribution to the Scotch Whisky industry was recognised when she was made a Keeper of the Quaich, an honour only bestowed on those who are recognised to have made a significant impact on the world of Scotch whisky.

At the recent Banquet, Ann was privileged to be one of a select few of the Keepers to be elevated to the prestigious title of Master of the Quaich, a position of considerable honour within the Society which reflects both an exceptional service to the Scotch Whisky industry and continued support of it. Only people who inducted as a Keeper over 10 years previously are eligible to be a Master and like becoming a Keeper, you cannot apply but have to be invited. Here is a link to more details and images of the Banquet  https://www.keepersofthequaich.co.uk/

Now independent, Ann continues to share her extensive knowledge of Scotch whisky, of Speyside and of Scotland, and to deliver inspiring and entertaining tastings, courses, and experiences.

An acknowledged expert, Ann was one of the first women to be an International Brand Ambassador and now offers entertaining and informative tailor-made, personalised whisky experiences, including tastings, and shares her passion, knowledge and behind the scenes expertise.

Throughout her career, in Scotland and around the world, Ann was responsible for managing and delivering in-depth and bespoke training for guests from many countries for the company’s wide range of single malt and premium blended whisky brands. Today her enthusiasm for Scotch whisky remains as important to her as ever, but she is free to extend her passion and behind-the-scenes insights beyond Speyside to an enthusiasm for all Scotch whiskies.

“We all thoroughly enjoyed the tasting! Everyone agrees it was the highlight of the trip!”

What does the Dram Queen offer?

Ann’s bespoke and inspiring courses and tastings, help people enjoy whisky even more! Her independent Scotch whisky experiences allow her to continue to share her enthusiasm and expertise.

Ann distils what is so special about all aspects of Scotch whisky for novices and experts alike. The experiences she offers can include tasting tutorials with a selection of samples, events pairing whisky and food as well as in-depth courses lasting from half a day to several.

Ann is always happy to add value to other events. A Blue Badge Guide for Scotland, she welcomes requests for bespoke itineraries for individuals and groups focussing on all aspects of Scotch whisky.

Why?

Ann’s Scotch whisky experiences are fun, informative, and entertaining.

With her wealth of knowledge and clear explanations, Ann will demystify the often-puzzling language sometimes used by whisky enthusiasts.

Fancy a quiz to see who can really tell their dram from their draff? Ann’s knowledge of the history of Scotland and many aspects of Scotland’s iconic spirit, mean she can organise a light-hearted quiz or competition for you and your companions.

Where?

Events can take place wherever it is convenient.

Ann is happy to welcome you to the Dram Room which she has created on the family farm in the heart of Speyside’s malt whisky country. There up to a dozen guests can enjoy entertaining and informative events tailored to their own interests. She is equally happy to arrange whisky experiences at your place of work, or in conjunction with your accommodation.

How?

Ann offers a range of Scotch whisky experiences.

These include an introduction to Scotch whisky to put this fascinating topic into context which are “illustrated” with up to six samples. Course content is tailored to your interests or can follow a theme like age, region, cask style, etc.

Please get in touch to discuss what you would like Ann to include in your own experience.

Ann continues to be an active supporter of the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival which she helped to create over 20 years ago. In 2007 she was honoured to be appointed one of the Festival’s Lifetime Ambassadors. Until recently Ann served as one of its volunteer Directors and she now chairs the Committee which runs the Festival’s Whisky School in partnership with the Headmaster, Alan Winchester.

Before moving to Speyside, Ann put Edinburgh’s Scotch Whisky Experience [formerly the Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre] on the map in the centre of the capital where it continues to be the gateway to discovering Scotch whisky.