E: What are some of your responsibilities?
A: La Maison du Whisky thrives on craftsmanship and the stories behind the brands we represent. For 70 years globally and 20 years in Asia-Pacific, we have identified and nurtured producers early. As Managing Director for LMDW APAC, I translate this philosophy across 12 diverse markets from our Singapore headquarters. My 14-year journey here has involved developing cult names like Caroni and Chichibu, alongside innovators such as Kavalan and Nikka Whisky. This curatorial discipline ensures our portfolio, spanning heritage houses like Gordon & MacPhail to modern icons like Hampden Rum, remains a benchmark for quality and education in the region.
E: What does a typical day look like for you?
A: My days are largely unglamorous. While many people only see the tastings and events, my role focuses on planning, forecasting, and regional decisions that shape how brands move across different markets. It is the less visible work of aligning people and priorities. A typical day alternates between cross-market strategy calls and time spent with teams in bars to see how decisions translate in real life. This anniversary period provides perspective. Celebrating 20 years in Asia-Pacific reminds me that strong brands are built through consistency and patience, long before they reach the spotlight.
E: Who has been the most influential figure in your career to date?
A: Our CEO, Thierry Benitah. He was among the first to introduce Japanese whiskies to the European market in the early 2000s, reviving Nikka From The Barrel when it was phasing out. This expression has since become one of the most globally recognised whiskies, celebrating its 40th anniversary just last year. This demonstrated a willingness to early commitment, staying patient when results weren’t immediate, and recognition for market potential. That same conviction was also the driving force behind the launch of our online store, whisky.fr, in the 1990s, long before e-commerce was an obvious or proven channel for fine spirits. His long-term view, instincts, and patience in growing ideas are values that I carry to our approach to building brands across markets today.
E: What’s one really special thing about LMDW’s products, especially in the APAC region?
A: Our portfolio is defined by a curatorial lens built over decades. In Singapore, we are recognised for our strength in independent bottlings, including Signatory Vintage and Gordon & MacPhail. Globally, this is expressed through our annual catalogue of handpicked single casks. This commitment to discovery is also why we champion Whisky Live Singapore, now in its 15th year. It serves as a vital platform where enthusiasts engage directly with the people behind the brands, such as Nikka’s Chief Blender Hiromi Ozaki, ensuring the craftsmanship behind every bottle is truly understood and appreciated.
Exquisite Taste Volume 50
La Maison du Whisky
W: whisky.sg
