In honor of Women’s History Month Stave & Slide would like to shine a spotlight on just a handful of some of the incredible women who have helped blaze the bourbon trail.  Creating opportunities for future generations of women, empowering others, and making so many positive contributions to this spirit we all love so much.  Thank you, ladies, Cheers to you!

 The Women of Bourbon  

  Bourbon, often associated with rugged masculinity and old-world tradition, has historically been perceived as a male-dominated industry. However, a growing number of talented and visionary women are making their mark on the world of bourbon, challenging stereotypes, and shaping the future of the industry. From master distillers and blenders to brand ambassadors and entrepreneurs, women are playing a crucial role in every aspect of bourbon production, from grain to glass.

  In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in the bourbon industry, with more women assuming leadership roles and making their voices heard. Female master distillers are leading the charge in crafting innovative and award-winning bourbons, showcasing that talent and expertise know no gender.

 Marianne Eaves: Forbidden/Bardstown Bourbon Co.

  Marianne Eaves made history in 2015 when she became the first female master distiller in Kentucky since Prohibition. With a background in chemical engineering and a passion for whiskey, Eaves has quickly risen through the ranks to become one of the most respected figures in the bourbon industry. As the former master distiller at startup Castle & Key Distillery, she oversaw every aspect of the production process, from grain to bottle, ensuring that each batch of bourbon met her exacting standards of quality and craftsmanship.  Today she’s bringing her own small-batch bourbon to the market named Forbidden, a name all too reminiscent of a time not that long ago where state law prevented a woman from working as a master distiller.  Marianne Eaves is widening that gap between the past and present and blazing a new bourbon trail for women to follow in her footsteps.

 Joyce and Autumn Nethery:  Jeptha Creed

  Joyce Nethery and her daughter, Autumn, are a dynamic mother-daughter duo making waves in the world of bourbon. Joyce, a chemical engineer, farmer, and high school teacher with a deep respect for tradition and a commitment to sustainability, opened Jeptha Creed in 2016 and oversees the production of small-batch bourbons made from locally sourced grains. Her dedication to quality and craftsmanship has earned Jeptha Creed Distillery numerous accolades and a devoted following of bourbon enthusiasts. Autumn, meanwhile, serves as the marketing director, bringing a fresh perspective and creative vision to the distillery.  After studying abroad for a year in Scotland with some of the greatest distillers in the world she returned home to her roots completing her education at the University of Kentucky and eventually teaming up with her mother Joyce as one of the youngest distillery owners in the country. Together, they are preserving tradition while also embracing innovation, creating award-winning bourbons that reflect their shared values and commitment to excellence.

 Victoria Eady Butler: Uncle Nearest

  Victoria Eady Butler is a name synonymous with excellence and tradition in the bourbon industry. As the eighth generation of her family to be involved in whiskey-making, Butler carries on a rich legacy that spans over 200 years. As Master Blender at Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, Butler is responsible for overseeing the blending process and ensuring that each bottle of whiskey meets the brand's exacting standards of quality and consistency. Drawing on her family's centuries-old tradition of whiskey-making, Butler brings a keen palate and a deep understanding of the aging process to her role, resulting in award-winning whiskeys that pay homage to her family's heritage.

  Allisa Henley: Sazerac

  Allisa Henley, Distiller and General Manager at Sazerac’s Tennessee Whiskey Distillery, brings a unique blend of expertise and creativity to her role, overseeing the distilling and overall operations for one of the most iconic whiskey brands. With a keen palate and a deep understanding of flavor profiles, she meticulously crafts each blend, ensuring that every bottle meets the highest standards of quality and excellence. Henley's journey in whiskey began almost two decades ago at Cascade Hollow where George Dickel is made.  It was there where she worked her way up from building the distilleries visitor program to learning everything about distilling to eventually earning a promotion to distiller.  That journey paved the way for her current leadership role at Sazerac.  Henley’s perseverance, hard work and innovation is helping to shape the future of women in whiskey for generations to come.

 Educators and Advocates: Women Spreading the Bourbon Gospel

  As bourbon continues to enjoy a resurgence in popularity, women are playing an increasingly important role as educators and advocates for the spirit. Brand ambassadors, authors and educators are sharing their passion for bourbon with audiences around the world, hosting tastings, seminars, and events that celebrate the rich history and heritage of the spirit.

 Peggy Noe Stevens: Brand Ambassador & Founder of the Bourbon Women Association

  Peggy Noe Stevens is a true pioneer in the world of bourbon, renowned as the first female master bourbon taster, a seasoned brand ambassador formerly at Brown-Forman and then Woodford Reserve and an all-around rock star in the bourbon community. With a career spanning over three decades, Stevens has dedicated herself to educating and inspiring audiences around the globe about the art and science of bourbon-making.

  Stevens' journey began in the heart of bourbon country, where she developed a deep appreciation for the spirit's rich history and complex flavors. Armed with a keen palate and a passion for storytelling, she embarked on a mission to share her love of bourbon with the world.

  During her career as a brand ambassador for Woodford Reserve, Stevens traveled extensively, hosting tastings, seminars, and events that showcased the craftsmanship and tradition behind the iconic brand. Stevens is also a respected author and educator, having penned several books on bourbon and hospitality. Through her writing and speaking engagements, she continues to champion the bourbon industry and inspire others to explore the rich tapestry of flavors and aromas found in every bottle of bourbon.  During the 1990’s Steven’s partnered with the Kentucky Distillers’ Association along with two other women at competing distilleries to create the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.  In 2011 she founded the Bourbon Women’s Association and in 2019 she was inducted into the Kentucky Distillers’ Association Hall of Fame.  Today Stevens serves as President of Peggy Noe Stevens & Associates (PNSA), which is her personally founded marketing company.  If there was a Mount Rushmore of Women in Bourbon, Peggy Noe Stevens would be the first one on it.

 Susan Reigler:  Food Critic, Author, Past President Bourbon Women Association & Bourbon Steward

  Susan Reigler's contributions to Bourbon history cannot be understated. As a renowned author and whiskey expert, Reigler has dedicated her career to studying and promoting the rich heritage of Bourbon. Her extensive knowledge and passion for the subject have made her a respected authority in the industry.

  Reigler's impact can be seen through her numerous books and articles on Bourbon. Her in-depth research and compelling writing style have helped educate countless individuals about the history and craftsmanship behind this iconic American spirit. She has brought Bourbon to life through her vivid storytelling and meticulous attention to detail.

  Beyond her writing, Reigler has also been instrumental in fostering a deeper appreciation for Bourbon through her involvement in tasting events, speaking engagements, and industry conferences. Her ability to engage and captivate audiences has made her a sought-after speaker and presenter.

  Reigler's contributions go beyond just sharing knowledge about Bourbon. She has also played a key role in preserving and protecting the bourbon industry's legacy. Her work with organizations such as the Bourbon Women Association and the Kentucky Bourbon Festival has been instrumental in promoting the industry and ensuring its continued success.

  In recognition of her significant contributions, Reigler has received numerous accolades and awards. She has been honored with the prestigious "Keeper of the Quaich" distinction; a recognition bestowed upon individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the Scotch whisky industry.  Susan Reigler has left an indelible mark on bourbon history. Her work has deepened our understanding of this beloved spirit, ensured its rich heritage is preserved, and inspired a new generation of bourbon enthusiasts.  She holds a prominent place next to Peggy Noe Stevens on the Mount Rushmore of Women in Bourbon.

Entrepreneurs and Innovators

  In addition to their roles in production and promotion, women are also making their mark as entrepreneurs and innovators in the bourbon industry. Female-owned distilleries, such as Rabbit Hole in Louisville, KY co-owned by Heather Bass, Frey Ranch Distillery in Nevada, co-founded by Ashley Frey, Uncle Nearest Distillery in TN, owned by Fawn Weaver, Catoctin Creek Distilling in VA co-founded by Becky Harris and Spirits of French Lick in Indiana owned by Kim Doty, are pushing boundaries and challenging conventions with their unique approaches to whiskey-making, proving that diversity and creativity are essential ingredients for success in the world of bourbon.

  As more women enter the bourbon industry and rise to positions of leadership and influence, they are inspiring future generations of whiskey enthusiasts, especially women to follow in their footsteps. By breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes, women in bourbon are paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse industry that celebrates talent, creativity, and passion above all else.

And so we raise our glasses to toast the women of the bourbon industry! And let us not only celebrate their achievements and contributions but also recognize the ongoing work needed to achieve equal representation in an industry that while historically male dominated in both perception and reality, has clearly been heavily impacted and influenced by women in every possible way.  From distilling and blending to advocacy and entrepreneurship, women are playing an integral role in shaping the past, present, and future of bourbon, proving that when it comes to crafting excellence, gender knows no bounds. Here's to the women of bourbon – may their spirits continue to inspire and empower us all.