The Last Sipper with Dhavall Gandhi
Dhavall Gandhi draws inspiration for his work from regular trips to Japan
The whiskymaker and artistic director known for his pioneering work with The Macallan and The Lakes Distillery, tells Gordon Thomson about his life in drams
Home is...
Wherever my family is.
My first dram
The first whisky I tasted was a sip of Johnnie Walker Black from my dad’s glass, when I was about 10-years old. Back then, most of the states in India were dry, including ours, but at the weekends we’d drive across into Silvassa where my parents and grandparents were allowed to drink. Us kids would be running around as the adults enjoyed a drink before dinner, and I remember dipping my finger into my dad’s glass and having a sip of JW Black.
The first whisky I ever ordered myself was a Black & White, at a famous wildlife lodge called Kabini in southern India. I must have been 18, and my cousin and I were sitting at the bar feeling very grown up.
KANOBLANC’s Dragon in Clouds
My all-time favourite whiskies
Right now, I’m finalising my selection of a 60-year-old single malt Scotch for my recently unveiled KANDOBLANC piece, Dragon in Clouds. It’s humbling to taste something older than yourself – there’s a quiet power in that, something deeply moving. Other than that, I love Fuji Single Grain Whisky, and Hibiki 17 Year Old, which is my go-to dram. It really changed my perception of what whisky can be. It has such a unique complexity and layering of flavours.
The best whisky bar in the world is…
There are many, but one that stays with me is The Mash Tun in Tokyo. Toru Suzuki’s knowledge is incredible – you end up in the most unexpected rabbit holes.
Where I get away from it all
Swimming, walking, or firing up my motorcycle, a Moto Guzzi V-twin – depending on the mood – each helps quiet the mind and bring a sense of clarity. I travel extensively, and long flights give me space to think and let ideas take shape. When I get the chance, I love to bomb up through Glencoe on my motorbike. It’s a temperamental but characterful bike, a bit like a good whisky.
My culture fix
I’ve always felt a deep personal connection to Japan – its aesthetics, philosophy, and quiet sense of beauty. After work trips, I often stay on to explore – visiting artisans or simply spending time in places where art and culture are still deeply woven into daily life. It’s become a way to reset, reconnect, and return with a renewed creative energy. A favourite place is the Ryoanji temple in Kyoto, one of the most peaceful zen gardens I’ve ever seen.
Most underrated whisky
Single grain whiskies – they’re often dismissed, yet some deliver elegance, finesse, and texture that rival single malts. They deserve more attention. If I had to pick one? Well, Compass Box Hedonism was way ahead of its time when it was launched.
My go-to whisky cocktail
A Penicillin – but my way. Compass Box Asyla at the core, with a touch of Nikka Yoichi for the smoke.
Whisky in five words
A medium for creative expression.
My Last Sipper
Water – returning to the most elemental form. Memory, stillness, and everything that came before.
Learn more about KANDOBLANC @kandoblanc and Dhavall Gandhi at @dhavall_gandhi
