The Keepers of the Quaich
The Keepers of the Quaich is an exclusive, international association of people who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, passion and commitment to the development and promotion of the Scotch whisky industry worldwide. The association was established on the initiative of leading entities and people from the industry to support and promote the Scotch whisky industry. With Keepers of the Quaich, the industry joined forces to build a powerful, united community. Currently, the association has almost 3,000 members from over 100 countries around the world.
The Keepers of the Quaich have their own coat of arms and their own copyrighted tartan. Its pattern dates back to the 17th century and is based on the colours: blue, golden and brown, symbolising respectively: water, barley and peat, i.e. the most important ingredients of Scotch whisky.
A prestigious association of merits for the Scotch whisky industry
The Keepers of the Quaich association recognises the outstanding achievements of those who work for the whisky industry through their commitment to industry development and educational activities. Keeper of the Quaich cannot be claimed - it will only be awarded on a special invitation in recognition of your contribution to the industry.
A few elected members of the association are invited each year to receive the extremely rare and respected privilege of Master of the Quaich. To receive it, you must have been a member of the association for at least 10 years and have been actively working for the Scotch whisky industry in a visible manner.
Banquet at Blair Castle
Twice a year, The Keepers of the Quaich meet for a formal banquet at Blair Castle in Pertshire, the historic home of the Duke of Atholl. The prince is the chief of the Murray clan and the commander of the Atholl Highlanders, the only legal private army in Europe. Atholl Highlanders form a guard of honor for visitors.
The meeting is attended by members and patrons supporting the association. During the ceremony, the titles "Keeper of the Quaich" and "Master of the Quaich" are awarded to new people who have been recognised for their contribution to the development and popularisation of the Scotch whisky industry.
In a closed ceremony, each new Keeper of the Quaich swears to uphold the spirit and goals of the society by keeping his right hand on a huge silver quaich. The ceremony ends with a sumptuous, traditional dinner: with whisky, haggis and bagpipes.
Krzysztof Maruszewski – Keeper of the Quaich
In 2016, Krzysztof Maruszewski, CEO of Stilnovisti, was awarded the title of Keeper of the Quaich in recognition of his merits and contribution to the development of the Scottish whisky industry. During the ceremony at Blair Castle, he received an honorable mention among the most important figures in the Scotch whisky industry.
