Chivas Brothers, the Scotch whisky arm of Pernod Ricard, has announced that Kevin Balmforth will be appointed as its new master blender. Balmforth succeeds Sandy Hyslop, who is retiring from the role after a career spanning more than 40 years in the Scotch whisky industry.
Hyslop will become master blender emeritus from January 2026, continuing to support Chivas Brothers and its whiskies and brands.
He commented: "It's been a real honour and a privilege to contribute to the quality, innovation and heritage of Chivas Brothers alongside my team. For me, the joy of whisky making lies in pushing boundaries — uncovering new flavours and expressions that invite new audiences in, whilst staying true to Scotch’s legacy. Whisky has an incredible ability to bring people together, creating shared moments and connections across generations. Passing on the craft of blending is part of that same tradition.
"It has been the passion of a lifetime to teach and develop my team to continue that work. It is with great pride and confidence that I pass this privilege onto Kevin, who I have worked with for 20 years."
Hyslop began his career in the Scotch whisky industry in 1983 with Stewart & Son of Dundee, a whisky blender that has been owned by Chivas Brothers since 2005. Over his decades with the company, he has been a driving force behind brands including Ballantine's, Chivas Regal, and Royal Salute, developing some of the brands' most iconic expressions.
Brian MacAulay, production director at Chivas Brothers, said: "Sandy’s legacy is distilled into every bottle he’s touched. His passion, attention to detail and generosity as a mentor have shaped our blending philosophy and left an enduring mark on the industry. We're grateful for his continued guidance and expertise, celebrating this moment as an evolution as we welcome Kevin as master blender."
Balmforth has worked with Chivas Brothers for 25 years. He has been appointed master blender from his current role as blending manager. He commented: "It’s an incredible honour to follow in Sandy’s footsteps as Chivas Brothers’ master blender. I’ve had the privilege of learning from one of the industry’s true masters, and I’m committed to building on his legacy by exploring new dimensions of flavour while staying true to the heritage that makes our whiskies so distinctive."
