Bourbon Women has just announced the finalists for their inaugural WOW (Women of Whiskey) Awards. The ceremony is set to take place on Friday, August 16, 2024, during the Bourbon Women SIPosium. This event is dedicated to celebrating women who have made significant contributions to the whiskey industry.
The WOW Awards are designed to recognize women who have shown leadership and created opportunities for community and connection within the whiskey world. Bourbon Women, the first female whiskey consumer group in the U.S., is proud to present these awards as part of their ongoing mission to honor the achievements of women in spirits.
Here are the finalists for each category:
Brand Ambassador of the Year:
- Avalon Oona Hass, Catoctin Creek Distilling
- Creola Dickerson, New Riff Distilling
Spirits Diversity Program of the Year:
- Camp Runamok
- STEPUP
Bartender of the Year:
- Amie Ward, Camp Runamok
- Megan Ford, Jeptha Creed Distillery
Spirits Writer of the Year:
- Maggie Kimberl, American Whiskey Magazine
- Shelley Sackier, Reservoir Distillery
Master Blender of the Year:
- Ashley Barnes, The Blending House and The Spirits Group
- Nancy Fraley, Nosing Services
Spirits Influencer/Podcaster of the Year:
- Kerry Moynahan, Barrel Room Chronicles
- Stephanie Burt, The Southern Fork
Master Distiller/Production Manager of the Year:
- Joyce Nethery, Jeptha Creed Distillery
- Marlene K. Holmes, Milam & Greene Whiskey
Mike Keyes Ally of the Year:
- Deborah Brenner, Women of the Vine and Spirits
- Dr. Janice Fernheimer, University of Kentucky
Woman-Owned Brand of the Year:
- Jeptha Creed
- Whiskey Sisters Supply
Legacy Achievement Award:
- Erica Fields, Fields Kentucky Spirit
- Margie A. S. Lehrman, American Craft Spirits Association
Peggy Noe Stevens Trailblazer Award:
- Ms. Elmer Lucille Allen
Finalists were nominated by their companies, peers, and communities. Heather Wibbels, managing director of Bourbon Women, stated, “The WOW Awards honor influential women who are redefining the whiskey industry through their innovation, leadership, and perseverance. These finalists exemplify the spirit of excellence and serve as powerful role models, motivating women everywhere to pursue and succeed in the world of whiskey.”
The finalists will be guests of Bourbon Women at the WOW Awards ceremony during the SIPosium Conference, which will host over 400 women. Industry supporters and bourbon enthusiasts are invited to join Bourbon Women in celebrating these remarkable finalists.
About Bourbon Women
Bourbon Women is a pioneering organization that plays a pivotal role in promoting and supporting women's involvement and appreciation in the world of bourbon and spirits. Founded in 2011 by Peggy Noe Stevens, Bourbon Women has become a significant force in the spirits industry, creating a platform for women to connect, learn, and celebrate their shared passion for bourbon.
The organization aims to provide women with opportunities to expand their knowledge about bourbon, engage with industry experts, and foster connections within the spirits community. Through events, tastings, educational sessions, and networking gatherings, Bourbon Women offers a supportive environment where women can explore the diverse facets of the spirits world.
One of the notable aspects of Bourbon Women is its commitment to educating its members about the art and science of distillation, the history of bourbon, and the nuances of tasting. By organizing tastings, workshops, and visits to distilleries, the organization empowers its members with insights that enhance their appreciation and understanding of bourbon.
Bourbon Women also emphasizes the importance of women's voices in the spirits industry and works to elevate women's roles in various aspects of the field, including production, marketing, hospitality, and leadership. The organization celebrates the achievements of women within the industry and provides a platform for them to share their expertise and experiences.
With chapters and events across the United States, Bourbon Women offers a vibrant and inclusive community for women from all walks of life who share a passion for bourbon and spirits. It provides a welcoming space for both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts to come together, learn, and enjoy the rich culture and heritage of bourbon.
Overall, Bourbon Women has made significant strides in promoting gender diversity and inclusion in the traditionally male-dominated world of spirits. Through its educational initiatives, networking opportunities, and advocacy efforts, the organization continues to contribute to the growth and evolution of the spirits industry while empowering women to become informed and active participants in the bourbon community.
