Meet Simon Brooking of Laphroaig

Simon Brooking never lacks for a good word when it comes to Scotch. “Whisky is pleasure, whisky is comfort, whisky is friendship.” ……for Simon, whisky is home. Born in Scotland and educated in the United States, Simon’s connection to his ancestral home is expressed from afar every day as he shares the stories of the spirit and, most importantly, the people behind Scotch.

A well-known expert on Scotch whisky, Simon has worked for many of the leading Scotch distilleries, learning the art and science of distilling from the world’s foremost master distillers and blenders.

It could be the hundreds of events he has hosted, the thousands of tastings he has poured, or his time on the stage that makes Simon one of the foremost voices in the world of Scotch whisky. But it takes more than the ability to spin a yarn and charm a crowd that has awarded Simon recognition as an Icon of Whisky multiple times over, it takes a true love of the liquid. For the last 28 years, Simon has seen himself as a student of whisky, even if he’s the expert teaching the masterclass. He believes that whisky is more than barley and water and that distilling the precious bier into spirit is an intricate art, the nuances of which take a lifetime to learn. He’s also quick to point out that there is a Scotch for everyone, and that this often misunderstood spirit is more than just your dad’s drink. From someone taking their first sip to the veteran bartender, Simon knows just what narrative thread to pull to inspire people’s passion for whisky.

Simon’s love of Scotland’s Highlands and Islands has paved the way to his present position as the Suntory Global Scotch Ambassador for Laphroaig, The Ardmore, Bowmore, Auchentoshan and Glen Garioch Single Malt Scotch whiskies.

Purchase a bottle of Laphroaig Islay Single Malt Scotch FWGS Single Cask at the on-site Fine Wine & Good Spirits and have your bottle signed by Brand Ambassador Simon Brooking.

Simon will be chatting with guests and signing bottles, with optional personalization, during the event from 6-10 p.m. Event ticket and bottle purchase are required to participate. Inventory is limited. While supplies last.