Alexander Murray is a well-known independent bottling company based in California, but it is actually the brainchild of a Scotsman named Steve Lipp. Steve has a deep passion for Scotch whisky and a wealth of knowledge about the industry, which led him to establish Alexander Murray in 2004. Since then, the company has gained a reputation for sourcing and bottling exceptional single malt whiskies from various distilleries in Scotland.
One of the unique aspects of Alexander Murray is their commitment to transparency and traceability. Steve personally travels to Scotland to select casks of whisky from distilleries all across the country. He meticulously examines each cask, considering factors such as the distillery's history, the aging process, and the overall quality of the whisky. This hands-on approach ensures that only the finest whiskies make it into Alexander Murray's bottlings.
When it comes to the actual production process, Alexander Murray does not have a distillery of its own. Instead, they work closely with a network of distilleries in Scotland to source their whiskies. This allows them to access a wide variety of styles and flavors, ranging from the light and floral expressions of the Highlands to the rich and peaty drams of Islay.
Once the whiskies are selected, they are carefully transported to California for bottling. Alexander Murray takes great care in ensuring that the integrity of the whisky is preserved throughout the entire process. The whiskies are typically bottled at their natural cask strength or at a higher proof to showcase their true character and flavors.
In addition to their commitment to quality, Alexander Murray also places a strong emphasis on affordability. They believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience and enjoy premium Scotch whiskies without breaking the bank. This philosophy is reflected in their pricing, making their bottlings accessible to a wide range of whisky enthusiasts.
I had the pleasure of attending a tasting event hosted by Alexander Murray, where Steve himself presented a range of their whiskies. It was truly a memorable experience as Steve's passion and knowledge shone through in his storytelling and his genuine excitement for each whisky he poured. He shared anecdotes about the distilleries, the people behind the production, and the unique characteristics of each expression. It was evident that he had a deep connection to the whiskies he selected, and his enthusiasm was infectious.
Alexander Murray Scotch whiskies are made by Steve Lipp, a Scotsman with a deep passion for the industry. He personally selects casks from various distilleries in Scotland, ensuring only the finest whiskies make it into their bottlings. The whiskies are then transported to California for careful bottling, maintaining the integrity of the spirit. Alexander Murray's commitment to quality, transparency, and affordability sets them apart in the world of independent bottlers, making their whiskies highly sought after by enthusiasts around the globe.