Leadership change as Cardrona marks 10 years

As Cardrona Distillery marks its 10th birthday it has announced that founder and managing director Desiree Reid is leaving the business to take up a new role with International Beverage in Scotland.

International Beverage bought Cardrona Distillery in 2023 and Reid is now moving into the role of Global Sales Director to focus on driving global growth for all International Beverage brands.

Henry Caulton, Cardrona Distillery Chief Financial Officer since 2022, will take over from Reid, moving into the role of Acting Managing Director. Caulton is a fully qualified Chartered Accountant and in a statement announcing the change, Cardrona Distillery says that he brings extensive strategic and financial experience to guide the next decade of growth.

Henry Caulton - Acting Managing Director, Cardrona Distillery

It says that his leadership has been instrumental in securing Cardrona Distillery's long-term future with International Beverage, positioning Cardrona alongside some of the world's most respected spirits brands.

"Desiree founded Cardrona Distillery with the dream of creating a single malt whisky that would stand tall on the world stage. In only a decade, she has achieved that and more,” says Caulton. “I’m honoured to be taking the reins from such an inspiring founder and look forward to the next decade as we continue to bring a touch of Cardrona magic to the world.”

Sarah Elsom, Master Distiller, now has full responsibility for all production and operations.

To mark its 10th anniversary, Cardrona Distillery will host a private celebration, bringing together private cask owners from around the world.

In 2026, Cardrona Distillery will release its first 10-year-old single malt whisky, and will start an expansion project that includes new whisky warehousing, cellar door and restaurant at the Distillery in Cardrona Valley.