Proprietor Michael F. Fraser Milne is from the Strathspey/Strathbogie area of Scotland and has been involved with whisky in some way for most of his life. Prior to moving to New Zealand, Michael lived and grew-up in the largest whisky producing area in the world, as did his father, mother, great uncles and other family members. An ambition to own his own specialty whisky outlet is now realised! Michael's knowledge and experience with whisky is extremely extensive, he takes much pleasure in sharing his passion with others.
In 2008 Michael had two mile stones in his whisky miles bag, one he was made a “Keeper of the Quaich” and in 2009 he visited his 77th whisky distillery, needless to say several of these MANY times! Does he need to visit more? Silly question really!
Whisky Galore (H. L. Milne Ltd) is privately owned by Michael & Stella Fraser Milne. Michael & Stella are also ably assisted by their oldest daughter, Siona C. Collier.
Siona has now been working full time at Whisky Galore for 6 years. Other than being brought up with Whisky, Siona has spent her fair share of time in Scotland attending various whisky festivals, going to distilleries and building up her extensive knowledge of the amber liquid. The most recent event for Siona is the birth of her and Matthew’s daughter Bonnie Isa Collier the newest member of the Whisky Galore Family.
Andy Watson Mercer Brown to give him his full title joined us in 2007 and is originally from Dundee, Scotland. Andy is ex Print trade, however has long had a discerning taste for indulging in and learning the finer points of great whiskies. Andy can not only advise you which bottle has the best quality label, but can more importantly advise you which whisky, or whiskies, are the best for your requirements.
To help out while Siona is busy with Bonnie, Stephen L. Le Petit has joined the WG team, Stephen is one of our “fans” who has now become a team member, he has “encyclopedic” knowledge of whisky and a great nose; quite a find.
Stella is a school teacher, however, she is the brains of Whisky Galore and has like a lot of the fairer sex a great nose. When not educating the nations young, she helps in the shop, rains in Michael from getting totally carried away with his purchases and also imbibes in some rather fine drams.
The Annual Whisky Galore Golf Open
To coincide with the British Golf Open at St. Andrews, we're holding our very popular golf open in store & online.
We have been meticulously hoovering the green which is once again in front of the Rare & Collectable cupboard, with a slight lean towards the big bottle of Chivas Regal on the left.
Pick up any whisky during the month of July and sink your putt (par 3), and you'll go in to the draw to win either:
1st place: Vouchers for 2 people to play 18 holes of golf at the Pegasus Golf Course (40 range balls and an electric cart included)
2nd place: 1 bottle of Dalmore 15
3rd place: 1 bottle of Dalmore 12
You can still participate if you're not in Christchurch by simply letting us know which distillery is closest to the St. Andrews golf course when you place an order with us (online or phone). Is it:
A) Cooley Distillery, Ireland
B) Ardbeg, Islay
C) Daftmill, Lowlands
D) Tullibardine, Highlands
Whisky Galore in Australia
As of March this year we have launched the Australian arm of Whisky Galore, www.whiskygalore.com.au
Early days yet however have a look and let us (Australia) know what you think!
- We are able to select, or help you choose a cask for your own bottling
- We are able to supply whisky with your own label from casks of high quality
- Michael Fraser Milne is also available to do corporate whisky tastings to suit your requirements
- Please contact us for more information
Shop Opening Hours
Monday-Thursday: 10:00am to 5:30pm
Friday: 10:00am to 6:00pm
Saturday: 10:00am to 3:00pm
Sunday: CLOSED
Whisky Galore
797 Colombo Street
Christchurch 8013, New Zealand
Tel: +64 (3) 377 6824
Fax: +64 (3) 377 6804
Email: info@whiskygalore.co.nz