As Master Blender at Diageo, Emma Walker holds one of the most influential roles in Scotch whisky today. She began her journey with Diageo in 2008 and for more than a decade has been part of the elite team of just 12 whisky makers entrusted with shaping the future of Johnnie Walker. With a scientific background and deep production expertise, Emma has cultivated an encyclopaedic knowledge of whisky production, maturation, and blending.

Her career has spanned every stage of whisky making — from fermentation and distillation through to the intricacies of maturation — giving her a holistic understanding of how flavour develops and evolves over time. Today, she leads the Whisky Specialist team in Menstrie, Scotland, overseeing access to more than 10 million casks of maturing Scotch whisky drawn from distilleries across the four corners of Scotland.

Emma’s approach combines rigorous scientific precision with a passion for storytelling through flavour, ensuring every blend maintains the heritage of Scotch while meeting the demands of modern drinkers.

Q&A with Emma Walker

Who or what inspired your journey into spirits?

I fell into the world of whisky in 2008 — my inspirations are the amazing people in Scotland making whisky, and the great bartenders who serve it!

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

I’ll stay close to home — Bittersweet and Nauticus in Leith, Edinburgh.

Bittersweet in Leith is a lively Italian-inspired aperitivo bar and restaurant, founded by brothers Fabrizio and Simone, that blends inventive cocktails with street-food-style small plates. Known for house-made creations like mead wine, kombucha, and espresso martinis alongside pistachio arancini and tiramisu, it has quickly become a neighbourhood favourite for its warm hospitality and vibrant food-and-drink pairings.

Source: Nauticus

Nauticus, also in Leith, pays homage to Scotland’s spirits and maritime heritage, with 90% of its menu sourced from Scottish producers. Ranked among the UK’s Top 50 Cocktail Bars, it’s celebrated for imaginative serves like the “Porridge Colada” and a stylish, nautical-themed interior that reflects Leith’s seafaring past, making it a true showcase of Scotland’s modern cocktail culture.

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

Royal Mile Whiskies.

Royal Mile Whiskies is one of Scotland’s most iconic whisky retailers, renowned for its extensive selection of Scotch and international spirits. Founded in 1991 and based in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, the shop has become a destination for whisky lovers from around the world. Its shelves are lined with everything from collectible single malts and rare bottlings to affordable everyday drams, with knowledgeable staff guiding both seasoned connoisseurs and curious newcomers. 

The shop’s reputation for expertise and passion makes it a fitting favourite for a master blender like Emma Walker.

Your go-to spirits brand?

Johnnie Walker.

A spirits category or type you think is underrated?

Scotch whisky!

A spirits trend you’re excited about for 2026?

Flavour and sustainability.

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

It’s great to hear the feedback on spirits from bartenders and buyers — it gives an insight into our consumers.

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

Do it!

Having your spirits judged by Emma Walker means placing them in front of one of the world’s leading whisky makers — someone whose blends define Scotch on the global stage. Her approval signals to distilleries, buyers, and consumers alike that your spirit embodies excellence, innovation, and authenticity.

Get your spirits judged by Emma Walker at the 2026 London Spirits Competition.

Also Read:
The Art of Blending: Emma Walker on What Makes a Great Whisky
Emma Walker, First Female Master Blender of Johnnie Walker Joins London Spirits Competition as Judge
Johnnie Walker Blue Label: Adam Hussein Reveals Whisky's Hidden Stories