Changing of the Guard at Chivas Brothers: Sandy Hyslop Steps Down

Friday, 12 December 2025 at 07:01

Chivas Brothers, part of Pernod Ricard, has announced a changing of the guard just before year’s end. Master Blender Sandy Hyslop is stepping down and will be immediately succeeded by an industry familiar: Kevin Balmforth.

FAQ

Who is Sandy Hyslop?
The (former) Master Blender of Chivas Brothers.

What kind of whisky does Chivas make?
Among others, Chivas Regal blended Scotch whisky.

Where can you buy Chivas whisky?
At quality liquor stores, and sometimes in supermarkets.

After more than 42 years in Scotch whisky, it’s time for Sandy Hyslop to lay down his tools. The Chivas Master Blender is calling it a day and leaving Chivas Brothers.

Hyslop began his career in 1983 at Stewart & Son of Dundee and grew into one of the defining figures in blended Scotch. Over his long tenure, he led the development and quality of Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal, and Royal Salute, among others.

His innovations include several successful ranges such as Royal Salute Polo and Fashion Edition, the Chivas Regal Extra Range, The Glenlivet Caribbean Reserve, and Ballantine’s 7 Years Old. His work is known for marrying tradition with innovation, with a strong focus on flavor development and approachability.

Hyslop is handing over the baton to Kevin Balmforth, with whom he has worked for years.

'It has been the passion of a lifetime to teach and develop my team to continue that work. It is with great pride and confidence that I pass this privilege onto Kevin, who I have worked with for 20 years.'

- Sandy Hyslop

A familiar face as Chivas’ new Master Blender

Hyslop’s role has been immediately filled by another well-known figure in the whisky world. Kevin Balmforth, formerly a blender at Chivas, steps up as Master Blender.

With Balmforth at the helm, Chivas gains a leader with 25 years of experience inside the company. Having worked alongside Hyslop for two decades, he will carry forward Hyslop’s style and philosophy.

'It’s an incredible honour to follow in Sandy’s footsteps as Chivas Brothers’ master blender. I’ve had the privilege of learning from one of the industry’s true masters, and I’m committed to building on his legacy by exploring new dimensions of flavour while staying true to the heritage that makes our whiskies so distinctive.'

- Kevin Balmforth

Hyslop isn’t going far

When you’ve spent half your life in whisky, you don’t disappear overnight. That’s true for Sandy Hyslop as well. He will remain active as Master Blender Emeritus—which essentially means he’s retired, but still involved from the sidelines.

Discover more whisky news here.