A sip of Enlightenment: A newbie’s journey

Here I am, the VP of Consumer Relations and I have to admit: There was a time – not so long ago – when I wouldn’t have dreamed of drinking any sort of whiskey, let alone enjoying bourbon whiskey. But over time, and perhaps with a little encouragement from our founder and my sister, Dawn, I’ve found that each sip is more than just a drink; it’s an experience that brings so much nuance, culture, and history to the forefront of my palate.

With its distinct taste – sometimes rich and smoky with hints of caramel and spice and other times smooth and silky with notes of cherry and almond, bourbon captures your attention from the first drop. There’s something truly captivating about the way it lingers on your tongue, leaving behind layers of flavor waiting to be discovered.

Now I’ll admit, I was a little intimidated when I first started this journey. Bourbon has a reputation for being a strong and masculine drink, which I understand now to be completely unfounded.  Diving into its complexity has felt like stepping into a new chapter of personal enlightenment and I realize how much it reminds me not just of strong men but strong women. There has been a kind of magic in trying something unfamiliar, allowing it to expand my world in ways I didn’t expect and now I find myself enjoying bourbon on the rocks in addition to many sorts of cocktails. As a newbie I have of course been exploring some of the more traditional bourbon cocktails like the old fashioned, Manhattan, and sazerac cocktail but also experimenting with new recipes.    Exploring bourbon has been an opportunity to appreciate the craftsmanship behind each bottle and what flavors they bring to the table. And, as I’ve learned, it’s about more than just the spirit—it’s about the stories, traditions, and communities it represents.

What makes this journey even more special is seeing the rise of women and black owned whiskey brands in an industry that hasn’t always reflected the diverse faces of its consumers. Representation matters, and I’m so proud to be a part of a company that is breaking barriers and adding their voice to the legacy of craft bourbon. I’ve witnessed first-hand how our story is resonating, and knowing I’m working for a pioneer in this space makes the journey and this experience even richer.

Bourbon, to me, is no longer just a drink—it’s a celebration of diversity, craftsmanship, and the boldness to explore new things. Whether you're sipping neat, on the rocks, or in a bourbon cocktail, I invite you to join me in appreciating not just the taste of bourbon, but the communities and stories it uplifts. Cheers to the journey and to making space for all of us in every corner of the world—even in the spirits we drink.