Billy Leighton has been at the heart of the Irish whiskey industry for more than 40 years. As Master Blender Emeritus at Irish Distillers’ Midleton Distillery, he continues to influence the legacy of brands such as Redbreast, Powers, and Jameson. Over his career, Billy has become synonymous with quality, consistency, and innovation in Irish whiskey, guiding it through a period of extraordinary global growth.

Interestingly, Billy’s journey into whiskey began not through distilling but through finance. By chance, he joined Irish Distillers’ finance department — and quickly fell under the spell of the craft, the people, and the potential of whiskey. That unlikely start ignited a lifelong passion that would see him rise to one of the most revered positions in the industry.

Who or what inspired your journey into spirits?

Finance was the inspiration, as it happened to be my way into the whiskey industry — and the passion soon followed.

Your favourite UK bar to enjoy a drink (outside of your workplace)

Swift Soho.

About Swift Soho: Located in the heart of Soho, Swift is a multi-award-winning cocktail bar known for its dual personality — a bright, bustling ground-floor aperitivo bar and a moodier, whisky-focused basement. Loved by industry professionals and cocktail enthusiasts alike, Swift is celebrated for its hospitality, creativity, and extensive whiskey selection.

Swift Soho: Located in the heart of Soho

Your favourite UK spirits shop (off-trade, not your own venue)

The Whisky Exchange.

About The Whisky Exchange: The Whisky Exchange is the UK’s leading retailer for whisky and premium spirits. With rare single malts, exclusive bottlings, and a global range of spirits, it offers both collectors and enthusiasts an unparalleled shopping experience — and has become a benchmark for fine spirits retail.

Your go-to spirits brand?

Redbreast.

A spirits category or type you think is underrated?

Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey.

A spirits trend you’re excited about for 2026?

Low-alcohol options and the growing popularity of RTDs.

For distilleries thinking of entering, what makes the London Spirits Competition stand out?

A great way to benchmark your product in its category — the judging panel evaluates quality, value, and packaging, giving you a complete picture of how your spirit stands in the market.

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One piece of advice you’d give to distilleries entering the London Spirits Competition

Be fair to your product when deciding on what to enter — choose the expression that best showcases your brand at its peak.

Having your spirits judged by Billy Leighton, Master Blender Emeritus at Irish Distillers, means placing your product in front of one of the most influential figures in Irish whiskey. His approval signals to global distributors, collectors, and whiskey lovers that your spirit stands shoulder to shoulder with the very best in the world.

Also Read:
Meet the Judges: Emma Walker, Master Blender at Diageo
Meet the Judges: Michele Lombardi, Head of Bars at Four Seasons London Tower Bridge
Meet the Judges: Oscar Angeloni, Bar Manager at The Connaught Bar