Diageo Reserve has appointed mixologist and award-winning singer and songwriter Andy Huntley as the new GB Brand Ambassador for its blended malt Scotch whisky, Copper Dog.
Originally from South Wales, Andy joins the Diageo Reserve team in the UK with 18 years’ experience in the bar and music industry. Andy first fell in love with the world of hospitality when he began his career as a barback in Australia. Before joining Diageo, Andy also worked as an Account Development Manager for Bacardi Brown-Forman Brands where he led a portfolio of premium and luxury brands creating bespoke events for the on-trade. He then went on to oversee the premium on-trade accounts for William Grant & Sons where he trained alongside some of the industries greats. Most recently, Andy was the whisky and music ambassador for single grain whisky 808 where he created a training and advocacy platform for the UK on-trade, which saw him bring whisky and music together to inspire bartenders nationwide.
As an accomplished musician, Andy has collaborated and shared stages with highly established and talented musicians. As GB Brand Ambassador for Copper Dog whisky, Andy will help bring together these two intrinsically linked industries using his extensive knowledge of both scenes. Adam’s new role will entail raising brand awareness for the liquid by hosting tastings, music events and brand activations.
Founded by bar and nightclub tycoon, Piers Adam, Copper Dog is a blend of eight fine Speyside single malts and can be enjoyed neat, with water, mixed with cola or in a cocktail. The inspiration behind the creation of the whisky comes from the Craigellachie Hotel located in the heart of Speyside. The once run-down hotel was purchased by Piers in 2014 and has now been restored back to its former glory.
The Copper Dog name comes from an old device made from copper tubing with a penny soldered to one end and cork in the other, which was used by distillery workers to smuggle whisky home in the 19th century. It is also the name of the bar at the Craigellachie Hotel which was frequented by local distillery workers who shared tales about their copper dogs and smuggling and where many years later, the idea for this unique whisky was born. The simple, bold honesty of the Copper Dog brand is also mirrored on-pack in the unique whisky dipper and dog emblems, designed by famed British illustrator Hugo Guinness, to grace every bottle.
On his appointment Andy commented: “I’m thrilled about my appointment as Brand Ambassador for Copper Dog whisky. I’m a big fan, I love the versatility of the liquid and it’s a huge privilege for me to be at the forefront of a brand that has such a unique backstory, so much character and that is pushing boundaries and supporting both the bar and the music industry like it is. I can’t wait to begin my journey in the role.”
Richard Larkin, Europe Incubation, Prestige and GB Reserve Director adds: “We are delighted to have Andy join the team. His incredible knowledge and passion for whisky as well as unique music history makes him perfect for the Copper Dog brand and will really help us drive the product in the on-trade and bring to life the brand personality and what the product represents.”