Daniel Davis
Women in Whiskey: Breaking Barriers and Driving Innovation
The Rise of Women in the Whiskey Industry
The whiskey industry, once dominated by men, is witnessing a transformative shift as women take on leadership roles and make significant contributions to the craft. From master distillers to blenders and innovators, women are leaving an indelible mark on the world of whiskey.
Bourbon Women Association: Empowering Women in Brown Water
In 2011, industry veteran Peggy Noe Stevens founded the Bourbon Women Association (BWA), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing female involvement in the bourbon industry. The BWA hosts events, provides mentorship, and advocates for women in the field, dispelling myths and showcasing their passion for whiskey.
Innovation and Risk-Taking: Women’s Unique Contributions
Women are not only consuming more whiskey but also playing a vital role in its creation. According to Stevens, women bring innate qualities to whiskey making, such as patience, care, and a willingness to take risks. This has led to innovative approaches and the development of new and exciting whiskey expressions.
High Wire Distilling Co.: A Case Study in Women’s Impact
High Wire Distilling Co. in Charleston, South Carolina, exemplifies the impact women are having on the industry. Co-founded by Ann Marshall, High Wire’s devotion to local ingredients and Marshall’s instrumental role in creating Jimmy Red bourbon demonstrate the unique contributions women make to whiskey making.
Uncle Nearest: Honoring a Legacy and Breaking Barriers
Victoria Eady Butler, master blender at Uncle Nearest, carries on the legacy of her great-great-grandfather, Nathan “Nearest” Green, the first known Black master distiller. Uncle Nearest was founded in 2017 to honor Green’s contributions and to inspire future generations of diverse whiskey makers.
Challenges and Progress: The Road to Inclusion
Despite the strides made, the whiskey industry still faces challenges in terms of inclusivity. Marianne Eaves, Kentucky’s first female master distiller since Prohibition, acknowledges the need for further progress. The Nearest & Jack Advancement Initiative, a partnership with Jack Daniel’s, provides training and resources to support people of color in the industry.
Elizabeth McCall: A Trailblazing Master Distiller
Elizabeth McCall, the first female master distiller at Woodford Reserve, believes the pace of progress is accelerating. She emphasizes the strategic thinking and multitasking abilities that women bring to leadership roles in the industry.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for Women in Whiskey
The rise of women in whiskey is a testament to their passion, talent, and determination. From the Bourbon Women Association to innovative distilleries like High Wire and Uncle Nearest, women are breaking barriers, driving innovation, and shaping the future of the industry. As the guardrails come down, the future holds endless possibilities for women in whiskey.
