BESSIE WILLIAMSON
A Woman of Distinction

On Islay, Bessie is a local hero. Far from the spotlight on a remote Scottish island, she seems an unlikely forerunner of women's independence. But she remains a powerful role model, beloved by islanders for her leadership, intellect and gentle humour. To say nothing of her determination to keep the demanding standards of the world's most unforgettable single malt whisky. Local conditions: As a chemistry graduate, Bessie was intrigued by malt whisky. In particular how each distillery creates its own unique style, none etched more individually than Laphroaig. One unique aspect, she noted, was its warehouses, directly on the beach. Another, how peat played a pivotal role in island life. For several days in May everyone, including the distillery manager, stopped work for the cutting of the peat. Studying her craft: Bessie rolled up her sleeves and joined the distillery team. Over the years, she studied every stage of the time-honoured craft of creating single malt whisky.Steeping, turning and smoking the barley. Handling yeast and making the wort. The whole process, from distillation to maturation in oak casks for 10 years and more. A superior student: Bessie turned out to be the most outstanding student Laphroaig could have hoped to employ. Her promotion was steady and deserved. The men of Laphroaig's workforce gave this highly intelligent, efficient young woman their full respect. A new era: In 1946, Ian Hunter the manager who hired her, fell ill and Bessie was appointed the new Keeper of Laphroaig. Ian Hunter died in 1954, the last of a family line of owners of Laphroaig Distillery. So treasured were the skills and traditions of Laphroaig that his will made strict provisions. The Distillery could be inherited only by someone well-suited to maintain its exacting standards and safeguard Laphroaig's unique style. No one else but Bessie met those requirements. One place on earth: As the new owner, Bessie continued the tradition with pride. When she died on May 26th 1982, aged 71, she had only ever worked in one place on earth. But on Islay she is still remembered for her loyalty to tradition. Bessie's dedication ensured that, for a powerful and pungent dram of mouth-watering flavour, not a malt on the island could better Laphroaig. (Map)

Bessie's Island Diary The sweet smoke of a peat fire The water on Islay tastes of whisky The heart of the distillery The long sleep of maturation The traditional malting floor

Copyright & Copy D. Johnston & Co., (Laphroaig), Laphroaig Distillery, Isle of Islay
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