Influential Women to Follow in the Bourbon & Spirits Industry

To celebrate International Women's Day this year, we’re raising a toast to women in the bourbon and spirits industry who are making history. Here are some of the most influential women who are breaking barriers in this male-dominated industry. 

Fawn Weaver -  @unclenearest

When owner Fawn Weaver discovered the story of Jack Daniel’s first master distiller Nathan "Nearest" Green, she was touched by the story and intrigued to learn more. Partnering with Green's great-great-granddaughter, Victoria Butler, the two created Uncle Nearest, a distillery to honor his life. Weaver has worked to combat the negativity and stereotypes that come with being a part of the few Black women in the room. Together, the pair set their goals on cementing the legacy of the first-known African American master distiller, and she is doing just that. 

Jill Keuhler  -@freelandspirits 

Inspired by her grandmother to set her sights high, Jill Keuhler was taught the importance of hard work. Based in Portland, OR, Freeland Spirits is one of the few female-owned and run distilleries in history founded by Keuhler. Celebrating the women of the craft, Freeland Spirits distilled their first bottle of Gin in 2017 with the mission of supporting women and minorities. Keuhler has since introduced bourbon in the company’s line-up and prides the company on being the only distillery globally that uses a heated and wet distillation process. 

Jill Burns and Kelly Gasink, - @austincocktails

Owned by sisters Jill Burns and Kelly Gasink, Austin Cocktails was inspired by their family's "cocktail time" traditions. The two value friends and family, which is at the company's core and is reflected as a high value. Working with a small budget, the duo cultivated a strong following, gaining attention from celebrities Camila McConaughey and Felicity Huffman. Austin Cocktails hopes to continue expanding to new states and give back to the breast cancer community as it has affected their family members.

Lizzie & Melanie Asher - @macchu_pisco 

Melanie Asher alongside her sister Lizzie Asher launched premium pisco brand Macchu Pisco in 2006. Their goal was to introduce American drinkers to the delights abroad in the southern hemisphere. Since Pisco comes from Peru and Chile, the sisters wanted to craft an entirely new experience. Mixologists have expressed that Macchu Pisco harnesses excellent complexity. Acting as master distiller, blender, and founder Asher is upending a male-dominated industry while breaking cultural barriers. 

Cheers to these women who continue to break barriers. Tag us @ipgancey and let us know the women you are celebrating for International Women’s Day. 

Jasmine Riggs