Lorne Mackillop is the heir to the chief of the Mackillop Clan, which was all but wiped out by the English in the aftermath of the battle of Culloden in 1745 during the Jabobite Rebellion. Tradition has it, two teenage boys survived the massacre, ensuring the continuation of the Mackillop Clan to this day. For some centuries earlier, the Mackillops were hereditary captains of the personal guard to the Kings of Scotland, and consequently the family motto is 'Non Dormit Qui Custodit' which is Latin for: (He Who Guards Does Not Sleep).

After seven years' extensive training in wines and spirits, Lorne Mackillop became a member of the Institute of Masters of Wine in London in 1984, and, at that time, was the youngest person to be accepted as a Master of Wine. The Institute presides over the most demanding examinations in wines and spirits in the world and, since its foundation in 1953, only a few members worldwide have passed these examinations and been considered worthy of this prestigious qualification. His comprehensive knowledge of whisky is reflected in the quality of "Mackillop's Choice".

"Only those whisky casks I have approved after careful selection are chosen to bear my family's name." - Lorne Mackillop