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Starting at the age of 15 as a cooper at Bowmore Distillery in 1963, Jim has nearly fifty years of experience working in the whisky industry on Islay. Jim is an Ileach ('eelock'), a native of Islay - born and bred. He worked his way up though the company, carrying out all aspects of the distilling procedure, from top to bottom. He married his childhood sweetheart, Barbara, in the church near Bruichladdich, perhaps an omen for the future. Jim became Distillery Manager of Bowmore, including a three years stint as a blender - a highly skilled job for which he had a particular aptitude. He was appointed worldwide Brand Promoter, enthusing on Whisky as globetrotting Ambassador for the Japanese owners - Suntory. Jim has been on numerous tasting panels. He has earned his title of Master Distiller the hard way. Jim has acquired several honorary awards, including 'Industry Leader of the Year' (USA) - the first time it was awarded - and Personality of the Year. He has been awarded the title of Distiller of the Year three times, in 1998, 2000 and again in 2003. As Production Director, Jim has pioneered several new single malt concepts and award winning bottlings. 
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