My Name Is Whisky

My Name Is Whisky (MNIW) is not a traditional distillery but an independent bottler and whisky lifestyle brand that approaches Scotch through storytelling, design and careful curation. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Lamone, Switzerland, the company began as a publishing venture before evolving into a curator of rare, cask-strength single malts. Under the guidance of founder Paul Simon Murat and, since 2021, his daughter Francesca, MNIW has developed a reputation for selecting distinctive casks and presenting whisky as both a cultural artefact and a sensory experience.

History and evolution

The project began with a book. In 2017, Murat published *My Name is Whisky: A Sky Full of Stars*, a comprehensive volume exploring whisky culture through interviews with collectors and industry figures, including Italian whisky authority Giorgio d’Ambrosio. The publication established the brand’s core philosophy: whisky is not merely a drink but a narrative shaped by people, places and time.

In 2019, MNIW bottled its first independent expression – a single cask Mortlach created as an homage to d’Ambrosio. This marked the company’s transition from publishing into independent bottling and consultancy services for collectors. Subsequent bottlings formed structured series such as the Capsule Collection and the Signature line, reinforcing its identity as a curator of rare and expressive whiskies.

The company’s growing reputation was further supported when The Old Barrelhouse became the exclusive importer of the brand, highlighting increasing international interest in its selections.

The role of an independent bottler

Unlike distilleries that produce spirit, independent bottlers source mature casks from established Scottish distilleries and bottle them under their own label. MNIW focuses on single cask selections so that each bottling reflects a unique maturation journey. Whiskies are presented at cask strength, preserving their natural intensity and texture, and the company frequently prioritises spirits aged over 18 years. Limited outturns enhance individuality and appeal to collectors as well as drinkers seeking distinctive expressions.

Cask selection and maturation influence

While distillation takes place at Scottish distilleries, maturation in oak casks (also in Scotland) defines the whisky’s final character. American oak can lend vanilla, caramel and gentle spice, while sherry-seasoned casks often contribute dried fruit richness, nuttiness and deeper sweetness. Extended ageing encourages integration and complexity, softening the spirit while adding layers of flavour.

By selecting distinctive casks and bottling at natural strength, MNIW preserves texture, aroma and flavour intensity, offering drinkers an unfiltered view of the spirit’s evolution.

Aesthetic and cultural identity

MNIW blends whisky with art, literature and design. Bottles are frequently presented in hand-crafted wooden cases accompanied by booklets and certificates that explain the story behind each bottling. This approach positions whisky as a cultural object rather than simply a drink.

The brand’s philosophy emphasises accessibility and storytelling. Whisky is intended to be shared, understood and enjoyed without the constraints of traditional stereotypes.

Distinctive characteristics

Several elements distinguish My Name Is Whisky. Each bottling is accompanied by a narrative that connects the spirit to people, history and craft. The curatorial approach allows the brand to highlight the individuality of maturation and distillery character. Thoughtful presentation elevates the bottles into collectible objects, while a contemporary cultural perspective bridges tradition with modern whisky appreciation.

Collections and bottlings

MNIW organises its whiskies into curated series. The Capsule Collection comprises small, highly limited bottlings that showcase distinctive casks and maturation styles. The Signature series reflects the brand’s core curatorial philosophy and balance of flavour. Special and tribute editions occasionally honour figures or milestones within whisky culture.

Flavour profile and sensory character

Because each bottling is drawn from a unique cask, flavour profiles vary widely. Mature single malts selected by MNIW often display deep gold to rich amber hues, reflecting extended oak ageing.

On the nose, expect dried fruits, polished wood, honey and warm spice supported by subtle oak tannins. The palate is typically concentrated and layered, revealing toffee sweetness, dark chocolate richness and stewed fruit notes, supported by the full, oily texture characteristic of cask-strength whisky. The finish is long and warming, with lingering sweetness, oak spice and evolving complexity.

How to enjoy these whiskies

Cask-strength single malts reward a slower pace of exploration. A few drops of water can open the aromas, while a tulip-shaped glass helps concentrate the nose. Allowing the whisky to rest briefly in the glass encourages further development. These mature expressions pair well with dark chocolate or aged cheeses, though they are equally satisfying when savoured on their own.

A modern perspective on whisky culture

My Name Is Whisky occupies a distinctive space within the whisky world. It merges publishing, design and independent bottling to present Scotch whisky as a cultural narrative shaped by time, craft and human experience.

For drinkers seeking individuality, maturity and a deeper story behind the liquid in the glass, MNIW offers more than a dram. It provides context, artistry and a thoughtful way to engage with whisky.