What does it take to build some of the world’s most recognisable drinks brands?

In this episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, Glen Palmer has the absolute pleasure of interviewing an absolute legend in the sprits industry James Espey OBE—he is one of the most influential figures the global spirits industry has ever produced.

Over a career spanning more than five decades, James has helped shape iconic brands including Baileys, Malibu, Johnnie Walker Blue Label, Chivas Regal 18, and The Classic Malts. He’s also the founder of the prestigious Keepers of the Quaich, recognising outstanding contributions to Scotch whisky worldwide.

This isn’t just a conversation about whisky.

It’s a masterclass in leadership, marketing, entrepreneurship and building brands that stand the test of time.

In this episode we discuss:

🥃 How some of the world’s biggest spirits brands were created

🚀 Why great brands are built over years, not months

🤝 James’ philosophy of leadership and teamwork

📈 The biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make when growing a business

🌍 How Scotch whisky became a truly global product

🏆 The story behind the Keepers of the Quaich

💡 The importance of patience, vision and long-term thinking

Whether you’re passionate about whisky, building a business or simply love hearing stories from industry legends, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Connect with James Espey

🌐 James Espey OBE: https://www.jamesespey.com

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-espey-obe-42309ba/

🏅 Keepers of the Quaich: https://www.keepersofthequaich.co.uk

Free Whisky Investing Guide

If you’d like to learn how whisky casks can become part of a long-term investment portfolio, download my free guide:

🥃 https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free

The Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast brings you conversations with distillers, founders, investors and industry pioneers from around the world, uncovering the people, stories and strategies behind some of the greatest spirits ever created.

If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a review and share it with someone who loves great stories and great spirits. 🥃🍻