Two Scotch-whisky-making titans were recognised for their contributions to the industry at an annual international spirits competition in London.
But one of them said he was devastated to have missed out on the awards dinner in London after a technical fault left his plane grounded on Islay.
Jim McEwan, a master distiller at Bruichladdich on Islay, was honoured with a lifetime achievement award by the panel at the International Spirits Challenge (ISC).
Mr McEwan, who is retiring later this month after 52 years in the industry, said yesterday he was overwhelmed by the news of the award, and thanked one of his friends for accepting the prize in his absence.
He said: “I am absolutely gutted to have missed the ISC awards dinner in London on Wednesday. This was due to the plane from Islay having technical issues which meant that I missed the connection that meant I could have joined you all.”
He also thanked his fellow directors at Bruichladdich for giving him the freedom to “follow the distiller’s muse in extraordinary directions”.
Glenmorangie’s Bill Lumsden picked up the special recognition award for a master distiller and blender at Wednesday’s ceremony, held at the Honorable Artillery Company.
Mr Lumsden has worked for Glenmorangie, which is based in Tain, Ross-shire, since 1995.
He also makes whisky for the Ardbeg Distillery on Islay.
The chair of the ISC’s panel, Christian Davis, editor of Drinks International magazine, said Mr Lumsden was the outstanding choice for the prize because of his innovative approach to his work.
Mr Davis said: “Bill Lumsden is known for his innovation, particularly in the field of wood management and the imaginative way he utilises cask finishes to bring fresh concepts – and fresh tastes – to single malt Scotch whisky.”
Mr Lumsden, who has a PhD in biochemistry, said: “It’s a great honour to be recognised in this way by the ISC and encourages me to continue to innovate.
“I believe this award is testament to the hard work and dedication demonstrated by all at the Glenmorangie and Ardbeg Distilleries.
“Year on year, we experiment and innovate to create world-class whiskies that will delight and surprise our two whiskies following.”
Mr Lumsden adds the prize to his outstanding contribution to the Industry award, which was presented at the International Wine and Spirit Competition in 2010.