A MALVERN-based whisky expert will be discussing the the famous spirit at Malvern Theatres next week.

Ian Buxton is hosting a talk-cum tasting at the Forum on Friday, September 12, to mark the publication of his latest book, 101 Legendary Whiskies.

Its publication follows the success of his previous books, which include 101 Whiskies to Try Before You Die and 101 World Whiskies to Try Before You Die and Whisky - History, Hints and Tips.

Mr Buxton, of Somers Road, is a former marketing director of Glenmorangie, on of the best-known single malts, and a long-time consultant who has worked with many of the leading distillers.

"I originally come from Scotland and after working in the brewing industry in Weymouth, I went into the whisky trade," he said.

He has written and lectures extensively about whisky, and in 1991, he was elected a Keeper of the Quaich in 1991, the highest honour of the Scotch whisky industry. He moved to Malvern for family reasons

"Whisky is growing more popular now among younger people," he said. "It's something that you can develop an interest in, and the variety of whiskies produced around the world is increasing."

And the interest is reflected in the sales of his books, which have shifted hundreds of thousands of copies and some of which have been translated into French, Chinese, Hungarian and Portuguese.

His latest book explores some of the rarities of the whisky world, such as fabulously expensive limited editions and bottles from distilleries now defunct.

And at his appearance in Malvern Theatres he will be talking about his book, his life and whisky, and hosting a tasting of some of Scotland’s finest drams, accompanied by local cheeses.

Tickets (£28) are available from the theatres box office.