For some, creating and founding a business can be a daunting task. However, Desiree Reid, managing director at Cardrona Distillery, knew owning a business was her fate. Since childhood, Reid had a deep-seated desire to design and produce something that would end up in people’s hands. After exploring options ranging from saffron farming to fresh-water crayfish, Reid settled on the art behind making great whisky.
With a background in being a self-made farmer and a governor to Fonterra, Reid was highly knowledgeable about what it takes to own and operate a business, helped by her first-class degree in business from Massey University.
Before opening Cardrona Distillery, Reid reflected on the several mentors she had when developing her business idea. Reputable whisky connoisseurs Richard and Richard Forsyth of Rothes in Scotland are credited with the success of Reid’s Distillery.
“They took me under their wing and were generous with their time guiding me through the process of building a Single Malt distillery,” explained Reid. “This family care deeply about the whisky industry as a whole, both small and large.”
Reid also named the late David Pickerell, who approached him after a distillery lecture and formed a connection, as an essential inspiration. From there, Reid found solace in Pickerell’s advice regarding the foundation of Cardrona Distillery.
Being a businesswoman and entrepreneur, Desiree Reid discussed the importance of valuing your skills and what unique opportunities they will bring.
So far, Cadrona Distillery has won two categories at the World Whisky Awards and has been shortlisted for the upcoming World’s Best Single Malt Whisky. Whisky Magazine holds these highly prestigious awards, demonstrating Cardrona Distillery’s quality.
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