MEMBER PROFILE
The bonding agent
Simon Dedman has been a dedicated member of The Scotch Malt Whisky Society since the 1990s. From his love for whisky passed down from his father to his adventures across distilleries, we delve into his passion for the Society, his unique whisky room in Portugal and how whisky has become a catalyst for lasting friendships, as Mhairi Mitchell finds out
A whisky lover’s journey is a tapestry woven with passion, exploration and the magic of shared experiences. Simon Dedman, a member of The Scotch Malt Whisky Society since the 1990s, embodies this spirit with unwavering enthusiasm.
Simon’s love for whisky traces its roots back to his father’s fondness for the golden spirit. While his father may not have been an SMWS member, his passion ignited Simon’s curiosity and set him on a path to delve deeper into the world of whisky. Eager to explore further, Simon joined the Society during the 1990s. Although the exact date eludes him, his commitment to and love for the SMWS are the hallmarks of a devoted whisky enthusiast.
With dual bases in the Algarve, Portugal, and West Yorkshire, UK, Simon finds himself immersed in two distinct whisky cultures. In Portugal, the whisky scene is undergoing an exciting evolution. Bars are expanding their whisky collections, offering a diverse range of options for both seasoned connoisseurs and budding enthusiasts alike. Additionally, cocktail bars are embracing whisky-based libations, adding a creative twist to the traditional art of whisky enjoyment. Simon notes with delight that even a Portuguese whisky company, with its Woodwork single malt series from Venakki distillery near Lisbon, has entered the scene.
ABOVE: Lagg distillery on Arran, part of Simon’s epic distillery tour
ABOVE: another typical day on a tour of Scottish distilleries
These developments speak to the growing popularity of whisky in Portugal, and Simon finds himself at the heart of this captivating journey. The allure of the Algarve, with its stunning landscapes and warm climate, is one reason he chose to make it his home. The opportunity to bask in the vibrant whisky scene while enjoying the splendours of Portugal’s culture and lifestyle was an irresistible draw.
Yet Simon’s whisky odyssey extends far beyond his Portuguese home. In May, he embarked on an extraordinary distilleries tour, immersing himself in the very heart of whisky production.
His travels took him through Scotland’s scenic landscapes, indulging in the vistas of picturesque distilleries. Simon recalls standing atop Damian Riley Smith’s roof at Rothes Glen, watching the sun’s descent, accompanied by a bottle of Caol Ila distillery’s 1988 cask strength Connoisseurs Choice.
Simon’s adventure continued with scenic flights over Jura and Islay, then onto Talisker distillery on the Isle of Skye. These experiences paint a portrait of a whisky lover in his element, exploring, savouring and expanding his whisky horizons.
ABOVE: All set for a tasting event organised by Simon for friends
As an ardent SMWS member, Simon’s appreciation for the Society goes beyond the borders of Scotland. The ability to savour and discover unique whiskies from around the world resonates deeply with him. The SMWS opens doors to rare and extraordinary flavours, allowing him and his friends to embark on taste adventures that may not otherwise have been possible. This infatuation with the Society led Simon to fulfil a lifelong dream in his new Portuguese home – to create a whisky room housing more than 600 bottles, with more than 400 sourced from the SMWS.
Here, he can retreat and unwind, surrounded by the depth and breadth of whisky’s soul-stirring elixirs, paired with the comforting embrace of a fine cigar. But for Simon, whisky is more than just a drink—it’s a catalyst for friendship. “You can enjoy drinking whisky at home with friends but anywhere in the world I have been from China to California from Alaska to Cuba, whisky always starts a conversation,” he says.
Whisky has a unique ability to bring people together, transcending geographical boundaries and sparking conversations. Simon fondly recalls an evening in a New York bar where his choice of whisky led to a chance encounter with a couple planning their pilgrimage to Scotland. Whisky became the bridge that connected them, reminding us that its magic lies not just within the glass but in the connections it forges.
ABOVE AND BELOW: Simon has taken his passion for whisky and the SMWS to new levels