91-Year-Old Meallmore Resident Wins National Whisky Label Competition

At Meallmore, we know that life doesn't slow down with age - in fact, for many of our residents, it's just getting started. This year, our annual Father's Day whisky tradition has taken on new meaning, as 91-year-old John Picken of Leven Beach Care Home in Fife became the winner of our national whisky label competition, with his Whisky being named "Leven Sunrise".

John's hand-painted design, inspired by a sunrise over the Leven promenade, now proudly features on Meallmore's limited-edition whisky - a special bottling that was available in all Meallmore Elderly care homes across Scotland for residents and families to enjoy together this Father's Day.

John's Creative Journey

John, who will be turning 92 this August, has lived at Leven Beach since 2017. Known throughout the home for his sense of humour and artistic flair, he was inspired to paint his winning masterpiece by a photo taken by Activity Coordinator, Vickie Dodds, on her way to work.

"She handed it to me with instructions," John chuckled. "By the end of her shift, I handed her back the finished painting."

That painting - a vibrant sunrise over the water - was entered into the Meallmore-wide whisky label design competition. It stood out among more than 30 entries submitted by residents, colleagues and families across our homes. Over 500 votes later, John was crowned the winner.

"I'm amazed," he said. "I've come a long way from a wee boy when I got into trouble for painting our pet Great Dane green!"

More Than Just a Label

This is Meallmore's third year producing a Father's Day whisky in partnership with A. D. Rattray, the independent Scotch whisky bottler with over 150 years of experience. But this year, it feels more personal than ever.

The label, adapted from John's painting, was carefully transformed into packaging that retains the integrity and beauty of his original artwork. It's more than branding - it's a celebration of creativity, ageing with confidence, and what can be achieved with encouragement and community.

"I dedicate this painting to my dear wife Margaret, who had the patience to support and encourage me over the years, and to my best buddy Vickie, who warned me not to paint a ship," John added with a smile. "It means the world to me."

For the Joy of Sharing

The whisky was shared across Meallmore homes during Father's Day celebrations, offering a chance for residents and families to raise a glass to the men in their lives - and to the talent in their midst.

"I may not be great at a lot of things," John admitted, "but I knew I was a genius at art."

John's passion for community extends beyond the bottle. He’s now hoping to raise funds for Guide Dogs for the Blind by producing prints of his winning design.

"I have a fondness for animals - particularly dogs," he explained. "I'd love to sell prints to support a good cause."

Life at Leven Beach

When asked what he enjoys most about life at Leven Beach, John was clear:

"Together with my extended family (Leven Beach Team), we all have a blast." Thanks to all their dedication, my life is never dull - in fact, it's full of activities, action and fun. Painting, baking, singing, dancing, remote control cars, canal boat trips, barbecues, you name it. It would be easier to list the things I haven't done!" Most of all," he said, "I've been able to reflect joyously through my photo albums, sharing my adventures with my friends and much-loved family. I can't wait for the next chapter to begin."

A. D. Rattray's Role

The whisky itself was specially selected and bottled by A. D. Rattray, who crafted the Highland Single Malt Scotch from spirit matured for over six years in oak casks. Bottled at 40% abv, this limited edition celebrates not just fathers, but the richness of community and care.

Art, Ageing and the Power of Participation

This year's competition was designed to involve the wider Meallmore community in something joyful and meaningful. From art sessions and entries to online voting and final selection, the project has sparked connection, pride and creativity across generations.

At Meallmore, our homes are not just places to live - they are places to grow. John’s story is a reminder that when we empower older adults to participate, to share, and to create, extraordinary things happen.

So this following from this Father's Day, whether you're in one of our homes or raising a dram elsewhere - join us in celebrating John, his remarkable achievement, and the creativity that lives in all of us.

Slàinte mhath!

Here are some of our residents from our other Meallmore homes raising a toast in celebration of this fantastic creation.