Just in her twenties, Francesca Murat manages Mynameiswhisky, an Italy-based Scotch independent bottler and whisky book publisher.

Ask any vintage Scotch expert at a whisky bar (such as Arun from The Swan Song), and they will tell you about the long and vibrant history of Italian whisky bottlers that have profoundly influenced the way whisky is bottled and appreciated today. High standards were set by the likes of Samaroli and Intertrade; known for their legendary bottlings of vintage cask strength Islay malts. Their bottles, cloaked with their seals of approval, have found homes in the cabinets of vintage whisky collectors. With their bottlings becoming increasingly rare and valuable, these liquids are often kept in sealed bottles, opened to be savoured only on rare occasions.

These Italian pioneers have laid a strong foundation and built a proud tradition that combines a deep respect for Scotch and a keen eye for quality. Yet, the whisky world never stands still and it's always exciting to discover a new star on the horizon.

Enter Mynameiswhisky (MNIW), a rising name in the industry that's shaking things up with an enticing mix of independent bottling and whisky collectors’ encyclopaedias. While relatively new, MNIW is turning heads and gaining the attention of whisky lovers in Europe and even in Singapore.

Uniquely run by a father-daughter duo, this bright spark on the Italian whisky circuit is looking to bring a fresh take on an industry that thrives on tradition. At the helm is the confident Francesca Murat, who is taking the industry head-on with her vision and dynamism. She is supported by her father, Simon Murat, a passionate whisky collector and author who has co-published a respected whisky collectors’ reference book – “My Name is Whisky”.

We had the privilege of sitting down with Francesca recently for an in-depth chat. Francesca opened up about the industry figures who inspire her, their approach to cask selection, and how MNIW negotiates the challenges of an independent bottling business.

Francesca also gave us a glimpse into her own life beyond whisky, shedding light on her love of art and technology. We even got a sneak peek into her hopes for MNIW's future, and let's just say, they've got some cool things cooking!

So, grab a drink, get cosy, and join us for an enlightening chat with Francesca of MNIW! 

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Check out / Purchase MNIW The Book: Official Store

“Just as [Schopenhauer’s] Veil of Maya suggests that reality is not as it appears and there is more to uncover, Scotch whisky goes beyond being a simple alcoholic beverage. It carries a rich history, tradition, and craftsmanship that can be discovered through exploration and contemplation.”

[88 Bamboo]: Hi Francesca! Could you tell us a little about yourself, and about your role at MNIW? As a bonus, could you reveal for our readers a secret talent or skill that you have? 😉

[Francesca]: Hello 88 Bamboo readers, it's an honour to share more about myself and Mynameiswhisky. My name is Francesca Murat and I am 22 years old. I was born in Milan, but for the past five months, I've been living in Lugano, Switzerland. I am the co-founder and managing director of Mynameiswhisky. It started as a passion and has turned into an entrepreneurial venture since 2021. Education has always been important to me, and after graduating from high school in human sciences, I enrolled in University to pursue a degree in economics and management. However, building Mynameiswhisky became my top priority, leading me to pause my studies for now. Nevertheless, I continually seek opportunities to learn and develop new skills through various courses and personal growth endeavours.

Growing up, I was taught the values of kindness, respect, and gratitude, and I strive to embody these qualities in my daily life. I believe that dedication, hard work, and unwavering motivation have been instrumental in my personal and professional achievements this far. Embracing life's simple pleasures and approaching every day with curiosity and openness has shaped me into an adventurous and inquisitive individual.

As for hidden talents, does "thinking outside the box" count? I have a deep passion for cooking, which has led me to become an accomplished cook in various styles of cuisine. Exploring different cultures, their unique flavours, and culinary traditions has become a way for me to embrace my wanderlust. It is a source of inspiration that pushes me to experiment with new ingredients and techniques in the kitchen.

Beyond my love for cooking, I have a keen interest in coding and technology, recognising the importance of staying at the forefront of innovation. And when I'm not fully immersed in the world of whisky and entrepreneurship, you'll likely find me riding horses, reading books, connecting with nature, and seeking solace in its beauty.

[88B]: We read that you’re an art enthusiast! Could you tell us who is your favourite artist, and which artwork is your favourite? Are there any similarities to the character of whiskies you like?

[Francesca]: Thank you for this interesting question! Yes, my passion for art runs deep. I find inspiration and fascination in a wide range of artistic expressions, always striving to keep an open mind and connect with the messages conveyed by the artwork. Just as each whisky possesses its own distinctiveness, every piece of art carries its own individuality. When asked about my favourite distillery, I hesitate to give a definitive answer because, like canvases, each whisky stands as a singular creation. While there may be shared elements within the works of an artist or distillery, I prefer to allow myself to be guided by the emotions and sensations they elicit. I follow the magic, so to speak.

However, there are artists whom I greatly admire, and among them is Pollock. His artwork "Enigma" holds a special place in my heart. It may seem unconventional, but I find parallels between the whiskies I appreciate and works like "Enigma." They possess an enigmatic quality, with distinctive characteristics that resonate with me, much like Pollock's creations. 

“Our first bottling was released in 2019 as a tribute to Giorgio D'ambrosio. I consider him to be more like a grandfather to me and he played a significant role in my whisky education.”

[88B]: MNIW is uniquely run by a father-daughter duo by you and your father, Simon – who is well-known for his gorgeous book My name is Whisky (MNIW) published in 2017.

Could you tell us about your journey discovering and working with whisky? Could you also share a memorable experience you’ve had working with your father?

[Francesca]: Whisky has been a part of my life since childhood, thanks to my father Simon's passion for it. He used to take me on trips to Scotland, where I fell in love with the history and the people behind the industry. My first taste of whisky (I was 15 at the time, but don't tell it to anyone!), sealed the deal and made me see the world of whisky in a new light.

In 2017, we released our first project, "A Sky Full of Stars," which allowed us to share our perception of whisky and celebrate the talents and the people in the industry.

Our first bottling was released in 2019 as a tribute to Giorgio D'ambrosio. I consider him to be more like a grandfather to me and he played a significant role in my whisky education.

After the release of our first bottling, we began to think seriously about the possibility of creating a real brand and transforming what started as a hobby into a real business reality. I was a 19-year-old university student studying business and management at the time, and the excitement about this project was so overwhelming that we began developing it straightaway. Finally, in 2021-2022, we launched our debut "Horizon" collection.

This project is like my own child, so it's challenging to capture its essence in a few words. However, what I can share is that for us, whisky represents more than just a beverage. MNIW is not merely a brand; it's a family, my family. In short, I work alongside my father Simon to curate the bottlings, create collections, and manage the behind-the-scenes operations, from overseeing marketing and communication to developing new projects.

As a new venture, there are numerous tasks to undertake and manage. Nonetheless, we approach all these challenges with a sense of joy and amazement, but most importantly, as a family unit.

I have countless cherished memories to share, and I consider myself fortunate to have a father who has always been my closest friend and with whom I still work to this day. Every moment we spend working together is unique and special, and I believe they all deserve to be remembered. My father is an exceptional person; he is eclectic, unabashed, sensitive, knowledgeable, and funny, and I treasure every moment we spend together. 

“Our selection process is rigorous and meticulous. We pay attention to every single detail, testing samples multiple times under different conditions. Often, we personally search for casks to carry out the re-racking process and try our best to keep all stages of the various processes under control, despite the distances and waiting times.”

[88B]: MNIW has now bottled so many amazing whiskies from Mortlach, Clynelish, Ardbeg, Glenrothes, Talisker and even Macallan! Could you tell us more about what it’s like being an independent bottler? How do you decide whether to bottle a particular cask of whisky? What are the challenges?

[Francesca]: Thank you for the lovely compliment. However, I must say that it is not an easy task. Today, the market for Italian bottlers is no longer what it used to be during its golden years. One of the most complex challenges we face is satisfying our customers. As you may know, the cask market is quite complex and expensive, making it difficult to choose the right cask. Nevertheless, we are proud and honoured to have the support of people who help us navigate the challenges facing the industry.

Our selection process is rigorous and meticulous. We pay attention to every single detail, testing samples multiple times under different conditions. Often, we personally search for casks to carry out the re-racking process and try our best to keep all stages of the various processes under control, despite the distances and waiting times.

We bottle what we like and believe is right at that moment, rather than following the market trends. We aim to provide a unique and all-encompassing experience that stimulates multiple senses.

We approach this with great respect for the whisky tradition, and we strive to maintain complete honesty and transparency with our customers. We believe that by providing unique products with exceptional taste and appearance, we can attract like-minded individuals who share our values and vision. This way we can show the best version of ourselves and MNIW.

[88B]: Are there any whiskies (or rum) from other distilleries that you would be keen to bottle? Any plans to bottle a spirit from outside of Scotland?

[Francesca]: The prospects for MNIW are expanding, and we are currently working to broaden our portfolio to cater to a wider range of whisky enthusiasts. Our goal is to offer a diverse selection of expressions that can be appreciated by different types of connoisseurs. We are not ruling out the possibility of dedicating a portion of our work to bottling not only Scotch whisky but also exploring other realms within the whisky world. We are driven by the desire to go beyond, to tell a broader story, and to provide space for other distilleries and new expressions.

We feel a deep need to offer more, to reach out to a wider audience of passionate individuals. Our aim is to create an inclusive environment where everyone can find something that resonates with their unique tastes and preferences. We believe that whisky has the power to unite people, to bridge gaps, and to foster a sense of connection and community.

By expanding our horizons and embracing new possibilities, we can enrich the whisky experience for all. We strive to break free from limitations and conventional boundaries, continuously pushing ourselves to explore uncharted territories and discover hidden gems. Through this journey, we aim to inspire others to embark on their own quests, pursue their passions, and challenge the status quo.

At MNIW, we are not satisfied with the ordinary; we aspire to create extraordinary moments. Our commitment to offering more is rooted in our belief that whisky has the power to transcend borders, cultures, and limitations. It is a catalyst for exploration, storytelling, and a testament to the indomitable human spirit. By sharing our passion and expanding our offerings, we hope to touch the hearts and minds of whisky enthusiasts around the world. 

[88B]: Italy has a long history of Scotch appreciation with many incredibly respected people in the industry. How would you describe Italy’s whisky-drinking culture? And is there anyone from Italian whisky culture that you really admire?

[Francesca]: Italians have been true pioneers in this extraordinary industry, paving the way for whisky enthusiasts worldwide. From Giaccone to Samaroli, from Intertrade to Rino Mainardi with Sestante, from Moon Import and beyond, we have turned our passion into a true revolution in the world of whisky.

These visionaries understood the many facets that whisky could offer, exploring every aspect and offering new and captivating experiences. Their dedication to identifying extraordinary bottlings and their ability to share their knowledge and passion have inspired generations of whisky lovers.

Their commitment to seeking excellence, their perseverance in finding hidden treasures, and their skill in creating unforgettable experiences have shaped the history of whisky. They have been true guardians of the art of whisky, opening new perspectives and arousing the curiosity of anyone who approached this extraordinary beverage.

Moreover, we have been among the most fervent whisky collectors, guided by iconic figures like Begnoni and Sandrin. Their overwhelming passion and commitment to seeking hidden whisky gems have left an indelible mark in the world of whisky collections. Through their collections, Begnoni and Sandrin have created a heritage of sensory and historical experiences that envelops and captivates us. They have been true guardians of whisky, custodians of invaluable treasures that take us on a journey through time and the spirit of these fascinating spirits.

Looking to the future, we are fueled by their inspiration and determination. We will continue to raise the bar, seek new hidden gems, and create unique experiences that surprise and captivate. Our commitment is to share the magic of whisky, ignite the fire of passion, and create an unbreakable bond between the spirit and those who love it. Today, our mission, and that of our colleagues, is and must be to carry forward their innovative and audacious spirit. Continuing to seek new treasures, creating unique sensory experiences, and celebrating the magic of whisky. 

“The Lagavulin ‘Islaga’ provided an unforgettable experience. From the moment the whisky touched our lips, we were instantly transported back in time, reminiscent of the Lagavulin expressions from the late 1980s. Its profile captured the essence of that era perfectly. The richness of flavours, the delicate balance between the elegant peat smoke and the maritime influences, accompanied by hints of fruit and a long, lingering finish, left an indelible impression on our palate…”

[88B]: Your new bottling, a 20+ year old Lagavulin “Islaga” from your new Beyond Collection looks gorgeous! Could you tell us a little about this bottle? What was the inspiration behind the art, and what were your first thoughts when you first tasted it?

[Francesca]: Thank you so much for complimenting our new collection, 'Beyond.' The entire 'Beyond' collection is dedicated to all the courageous souls who dare to believe in their dreams and dare to look beyond limitations. We drew inspiration primarily from two concepts by Carl Jung: the "germ of life" within each of us, and the Veil of Maya by Schopenhauer.

According to Jung, the fulfilment of our being is not solely an intellectual process but is found in taking action in the world. Leaving a trace of ourselves, proof of our existence is how we achieve our purpose and consequently find happiness, personal fulfilment, and the expression of our soul.

We also explored Schopenhauer's concept of the Veil of Maya. The metaphor between the Veil of Maya and Scotch whisky lies in the idea that both invite us to look beyond the surface and explore deeper layers of meaning and experience. Just as the Veil of Maya suggests that reality is not as it appears and there is more to uncover, Scotch whisky goes beyond being a simple alcoholic beverage. It carries a rich history, tradition, and craftsmanship that can be discovered through exploration and contemplation. We wanted to celebrate the whisky pioneers—the individuals who dare to break free from the norm, challenge conventions, and explore uncharted territories. These visionaries refuse to be confined by the veil of conformity and instead choose to embrace their passions and aspirations.

By pushing boundaries and venturing into the unknown, these exceptional individuals have the opportunity to break through the veil that obscures their path. It is through their unwavering determination, relentless pursuit, and unyielding belief in their dreams that they can unravel the hidden treasures of their own potential.

The 'Beyond' collection consists of three releases, two recently launched, namely the Lagavulin "Islaga" and our 23-year-old Springbank, “Maya”. While two releases have been unveiled, we are looking forward to September for the launch of the final release, thus completing the collection. Considering the prestige and excellence of the whiskies in the collection, we have created a concept that not only honours their quality but also pays tribute to the audacity and determination of the pioneers who made this exceptional selection possible. By embracing the concept of going beyond the veil and breaking barriers, we emphasize that the whiskies in the collection represent much more than a simple spirit. They embody the passion, mastery, and tradition behind each drop.

When we first tasted the Lagavulin "Islaga" and the Springbank "Maya," we were truly amazed. The Lagavulin "Islaga" provided an unforgettable experience. From the moment the whisky touched our lips, we were instantly transported back in time, reminiscent of the Lagavulin expressions from the late 1980s. Its profile captured the essence of that era perfectly. The richness of flavours, the delicate balance between the elegant peat smoke and the maritime influences, accompanied by hints of fruit and a long, lingering finish, left an indelible impression on our palates. We knew right away that this bottle had to be a part of our Beyond Collection, as it embodies the pinnacle of exploration, depth, and the true spirit of Islay whiskies.

The Springbank "Maya" is equally enchanting to us. When we first experienced it, we were captivated by its intricate complexity. The interplay of flavours, the harmonious balance, and the depth of character were truly remarkable. It unfolded like a journey, revealing layers of fruity sweetness, subtle spices, and a touch of peat. It was a moment of revelation for all of us.

The Lagavulin "Islaga" and the Springbank "Maya" embody our commitment to selecting exceptional quality and depth whiskies. They invite you to embark on a journey beyond the ordinary, inviting you to discover the hidden stories and complexities that lie within each sip.

[88B]: Before we let you go, if someone was new to Milan, and had one night to spend there, what is the one restaurant and one bar that they must absolutely visit?

[Francesca]: If someone were passing through Milan and had only one evening to spare, there are many places I would recommend, but if I have to narrow it down to one for each category, I would definitely suggest the restaurant "Trippa" for enjoying excellent and authentic Italian cuisine. Here, you can savour delicious and authentic Italian dishes that will satisfy your palate and provide an unforgettable culinary experience.

As for a bar, especially for whisky lovers, I highly recommend making a stop at "2cl," located in the heart of Milan's whisky scene. This establishment offers a wide selection of whiskies from around the world, allowing you to explore and taste different high-quality labels. The welcoming atmosphere and attention to detail make "2cl" an ideal place to appreciate whisky and spend a pleasant evening in Milan.

[88B]: Thanks once again Francesca for doing this interview with us! We’re delighted to learn more about you, the exciting things you are doing at Mynameiswhisky, and have your valuable thoughts on the Italian whisky scene!

Follow Francesca: Instagram

Follow Mynameiswhisky (MNIW): Instagram | Facebook | Official Website  

Check out / Purchase MNIW The Book: Official Store

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