What was your first experience with Scotch? Was it an enjoyable one?
It was definitely enjoyable! I'd first tasted it from my Dad's liquor cabinet when I was in my early twenties. At the time, I don't think I completely understood what I was having, but I knew I loved it.

When and how did you decide to become a Brand Ambassador?
Well, my career actually started in journalism. Through my work I started learning about rare and interesting single malts, and was assigned to interview Charles MacLean, who is one of the most famous whisky authors. After that, I was pretty much hooked, and spent lots of time learning as much as I could about Scotch. Ultimately, I just fell into my Brand Ambassador position; I knew I loved The Macallan and just kept on knocking on their door until finally they gave me the job. I guess you could say my tenacity paid off.

When you are not drinking Scotch, what is your drink of choice?
I really love wines--I love learning about them, and a lot of my friends are in the wine business. Some of my favorites are Silver Oak, The Stash, Cakebread, and Kistler. Also Rosemont Estate--I've been drinking it since college. I also love trying different beers from all over the world.

If you weren't a brand ambassador, what career path do you think you would have followed?
I would probably still be a journalist. Or a banker--I did that for three years as well. But you know, nothing goes down quite so smooth as The Macallan Brand Ambassador role.

What exactly is a Brand Ambassador?
The Macallan Brand Ambassador is a representation of the Scotland distillery, a face and authority on the brand, its history, its expressions, and all things Macallan.

What does the term "single malt" mean?
To be simple: a single malt whisky is a whisky that comes from one distillery.

If you were going to mix your Scotch with something, what do you prefer?
Honestly, I prefer not to mix it with anything. Some people like their Scotch with ice, or a splash of water, but I like it neat.

What are some of your favorite foods to pair with Scotch?
The Macallan Fine Oak 15 is really amazing with anything zesty or that includes citrus--chicken or salads or anything like that. The Macallan Sherry Oak 18 is perfect for a steak and potatoes kind of meal, and I often drink Cask Strength with dark chocolate.

The age of Scotch drinkers is becoming younger. Why do you think that is?
I think that the style of drinking whisky has changed--it's no longer just for men in arm chairs with cigars and Bentleys and fireplaces. In particular, The Macallan Fine Oak range changed the audience for whiskies-- women are more attracted to it, and I think it's because they're looking for something more sophisticated than clear spirits.

In my travels, I've found that younger people are eager to learn about Scotch and experiment with it. They are intrigued by The Macallan;s rich history and heritage.

The Macallan actually just launched a limited Scotch series called The Masters of Photography Collection this January in LA. The collection is made up of special bottlings of The Macallan Fine Oak 30 Years Old that are actually unique works of art, featuring individual Polaroids shot by fashion photographer Rankin. Since these bottles combine Scotch with cutting-edge art, it's been extremely popular with this younger set of Scotch drinkers.

What trends have you been observing in the Scotch world?
People are also more inquisitive--they're interested in understanding the differences between whiskies, what makes them special, where they come from, etc. I've particularly noticed a stronger interest on single malts.