In honour of St. Brigid’s Day, a celebration that pays homage to Ireland’s rich heritage and the strength of its women, we are thrilled to present our Women in Whiskey feature. This spotlight showcases the remarkable achievements of women who have made significant contributions to the whiskey industry. From pioneering distillers to innovative blenders, these trailblazers are not only shaping the landscape of whiskey but are also inspiring a new generation of women to follow in their footsteps.
As we delve into the stories of Jennifer Nickerson, Louise McGuane, and Alex Thomas, we celebrate their dedication, passion, and the transformative impact they have had on this age-old craft. Join us in raising a glass to these extraordinary women who embody the spirit of St. Brigid through their creativity, resilience, and commitment to excellence in whiskey.
Women in Whiskey No.1: Jennifer Nickerson
The first woman we want to highlight for our Women in Whiskey feature is Jennifer Nickerson. Jennifer is the co-founder and director of Tipperary Boutique Distillery, a family-owned business that has been recognised for it’s range of premium Single Malt and Single Pot Still Whiskey. Jennifer has been instrumental in developing the Distillery’s brand and product offering.
Jennifer’s background is deeply rooted in farming and agriculture. Her family owns Ballindoney Farm in County Tipperary, where they have been an integral part of the local community for generations. This connection to the land and cultivation has always played a key role in Tipperary Boutique Distillery’s mission to create whiskey that reflects their natural surrounds.
Growing on this mission, Jennifer has made significant strides in the whiskey industry by emphasising sustainability and quality. The distillery sources its barley from the family farm and uses water from natural sources in the Tipperary Hills. This ensures the whiskey is a true reflection of it’s environment. Her commitment to sustainability and local sourcing has allowed Tipperary Boutique Distillery to stand out in the competition whiskey market.
Thanks to Jennifer’s Leadership, the distillery has received numerous accolades and continues to grow it’s presence is both Ireland and internationally. Her dedication to quality and innovation makers her an influential figure to other amazing women in whiskey.
Women in Whiskey No.2: Louise McGuane
The next trailblazer in our Women in Whiskey feature is Louise McGuane. Louise is know in the whiskey industry for reviving the tradition of whiskey bonding in Ireland. As the founder of J.J Corry Irish Whiskey, Louise has successfully revitalised the the age old tradition of sourcing and aging whiskey from various distilleries to create unique blends.
Louise’s background began in her home county of Clare, where she developed an early appreciation of the craftsmanship in whiskey creation. Her career initially took her into the world of international spirit marketing, where she gained invaluable experience working with some of the most renowned brands globally. Her experience allowed her to develop a deep understanding of both the business and the creative sides of the whiskey industry.
Louise founded J.J Corry Irish Whiskey in 20215 with the mission to revitalise the lost craft of whiskey bonding. This practice has previously all but disappeared from Ireland by the mid-20th century. She paid honor to the heritage and tradition she sought to revive by naming the company after a local whiskey bonder from the 19th century.
Louise’s company operates from her family’s farm in County Clare, where she matures and blends whiskeys to create distinct and personalised expressions. Irishmalts has worked previously with J.J Corry to create The Christmas Blend and Cyber Monday. Louise’s artisanal approach allowed us to offer a distinct and personalised expression to our customers.
Under Louise’s leadership, J.J. Corry has garned attention and accolades for it’s unique offerings. She has been the key player in the renewed interest in whiskey bonding in Ireland. She has paved the way other women in whiskey, showing that tradition and innovation can blend to create something truly special. Her work has not only enriched the whiskey industry but has inspired a new generation of whiskey makers and enthusiasts.
Women in Whiskey No.3: Alex Thomas
The third and final remarkable woman in our Women in Whiskey feature is Alex Thomas. Renowned for her expertise and innovation, Alex Thomas has made significant contributions to the whiskey industry as a Master Blender. Her role has been pivotal in creating some of the most sought-after whiskeys in the world.
Alex’s journey into the world of whiskey began with her deep appreciation for the flavour, aroma and complexities of Irish Whiskey. She began her career at Bushmills Distillery, where her talent for developing flavours became quickly evident. Over the years, Alex honed her craft, and developed a unique ability to balance tradition and modern techniques.
Alex’s skill and in depth knowledge allowed her to become a Master Blender at Bushmills Distillery. Her responsibilities include ensure the consistence and quality of the offerings. Her skill in blending has resulted in a wide range of award-winning products. These products have been celebrated for their depth of flavour and interesting character. Alex’s expertise is rooted in her meticulous attention to detail and her intuitive sense of flavour profiles. These skills have allowed her to create whiskeys which are both timeless and innovative.
Beyond her technical expertise, Alex Thomas is also known for her mentorship and leadership within the women in whiskey community. She has been a key player in encouraging more women to pursue careers in the whiskey industry, pushing for an environment of inclusivity and diversity. Her influence has grown beyond the walls of the distillery, as she frequently takes part in industry events and panels, sharing her knowledge and passion for whiskey with a broader audience.
In summary, Alex Thomas is a trailblazer whose contributions to the whiskey industry have been both profound and influential to other women in Whiskey. Her work as a Master Blender not only enriches the world of whiskey but also inspires future generations of women in whiskey to pursue their passions with creativity and confidence.
As we conclude our Women in Whiskey feature, we raise a glass in honor of Jennifer Nickerson, Louise McGuane, and Alex Thomas. These remarkable women, through their innovation, dedication, and passion, are not only shaping the future of the whiskey industry but are also inspiring countless others to follow in their footsteps. Their stories are a testament to the enduring spirit and creativity that women bring to this age-old craft, echoing the legacy of St. Brigid herself. May their achievements continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations, creating a more inclusive and dynamic world of whiskey. Here’s to celebrating the past, present, and future of women in whiskey. Sláinte!