Bourbon Women, in collaboration with the Bourbon Women Foundation, has revealed the launch of the inaugural WOW (Women of Whiskey) Awards.
A gathering of prominent women and advocates in the industry is scheduled for the Bourbon Women SIPosium on August 25, 2023. This event aims to recognize and applaud the remarkable achievements of women who are shaping the whiskey industry.
The groundbreaking WOW Awards distinguish the visionary women who stand out as leaders in their field, fostering connections and fostering a sense of community within the whiskey realm. Moreover, these awards spotlight individuals who uplift and empower women and underrepresented individuals within their teams.
Brands, companies, and individuals have the opportunity to nominate accomplished women in various award categories. Nominations are currently being accepted on the official WOW awards page: bourbonwomen.org/wow-women-of-whiskey-awards.
A distinguished panel comprising industry experts will undertake the task of selecting the winners. In its inaugural edition, the WOW Awards will honor women in 10 distinct categories, with intentions to expand the range of awards in subsequent editions. The categories for the 2023 edition encompass:
Master Distiller/Production Manager of the Year
Master Blender of the Year
Woman-Owned Brand of the Year
Brand Ambassador of the Year
Spirits Writer of the Year
Spirits Influencer/Podcaster of the Year
Bartender of the Year
Spirits Diversity Program of the Year
Mike Keyes Champion of the Year
Legacy Achievement Award
Throughout the meticulous selection process, a pair of finalists will be meticulously chosen for each of the categories. These accomplished finalists will be welcomed as esteemed guests of Bourbon Women during the WOW Awards. To further commemorate the occasion, companies nominating these remarkable women, as well as industry professionals and enthusiasts, will receive an exclusive invitation to secure seats or tables at the evening dinner event on Friday.
Heather Wibbels, the Managing Director of Bourbon Women, underscores the organization's unwavering commitment to elevating women within the whiskey and hospitality landscape. She emphasizes, "This awards initiative serves as a spotlight on those trailblazing women who are at the forefront, not only uplifting fellow women in the industry but also fostering dynamic and effective teams that drive transformation within the realm of whiskey."
For comprehensive details regarding the awards and to put forward nominations for individuals who embody the specified criteria, please visit the dedicated Bourbon Women/WOW Awards website.
As an innovator in supporting female bourbon enthusiasts, Bourbon Women proudly stands as the pioneering female spirits consumer group in the nation.
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.
