Women lead in whiskey as more female drinkers and distillers reshape the industry

A growing number of women are moving into distilling, blending and brand ownership in a traditionally male-dominated whiskey world, and organizations and industry figures say more women are also drinking whiskey. The article highlights individuals such as Meghan Ireland, now chief blender at WhistlePig, and notes efforts to change imagery and support for women in the field.

Meghan Ireland found a pathway from chemical engineering to whiskey after reading about a female chemical engineer who became a master distiller. She is now the chief blender for Vermont-based WhistlePig. The story is part of a broader trend of more women launching brands and taking technical and leadership roles in an industry long seen as male-dominated. Advocates and organizations are working to support women and change the images attached to women and whiskey. Key facts: - Meghan Ireland moved from chemical engineering to become chief blender at WhistlePig, as reported. - The article reports an increase in women starting whiskey brands and taking roles in distilling and blending. - Some women in the industry still encounter doubt from colleagues or consumers about whether they like whiskey. - Becky Paskin and the OurWhiskey Foundation are cited as promoting and supporting women in the whiskey business and addressing imagery issues. - Historians and experts note women have long been involved in distilling, with reference to historical figures such as Maria Hebraea. Summary: The presence of women in technical and leadership roles in whiskey is described as increasing, and organizations are working to change industry images and provide support. The article presents individual examples and reported observations but does not specify a formal next step. Undetermined at this time.