Did you miss our first installment in the series? Read about Hawaiian bartender Mari Howe!
For the next installment in our series on women leaders in the bar and restaurant industry, we spoke with Elizabeth McCall, who was recently named Master Distiller of Woodford Reserve, the third in the bourbon brand’s 26-year history. McCall is not the first woman to be named to the Master Distiller role, but she is the first for such a major American whiskey brand.
In her new role, McCall will oversee quality and innovation efforts and bring new Woodford Reserve products to market. She will lead the brand’s special, rare bourbon releases while bringing her unique touch and point of view to new whiskies.
Read on for our full Q&A with Elizabeth!
What whiskey trends do you expect to see in 2023?
I see the focus on sustainability remaining in 2023. When I say sustainability, I mean not just environmental practices but also people/industry. We need to focus our agricultural practices to sustainable ones, ensuring that our farmers are utilizing regenerative farming practices such as no till and cover crops. We need to continue to push diversity of our consumers, making sure everyone feels welcome sipping whiskey. Another area of sustainability is to focus on our workforce for the spirits industry. Making sure that young people understand the many different types of jobs available from hospitality, to finance, to chemistry.
What does it mean to you to be named one of the first female master distillers of a major American whiskey brand?
This is truly a tremendous honor and something I am still wrapping my head around. On one hand, I’m in awe of myself and the prestige of the title for my beloved brand Woodford Reserve, and on the other hand, I am just doing my job, something I am passionate about. I feel lucky to be in such a wonderful place.
Can you give us any insight into your future plans for Woodford Reserve? How do you plan to lead the brand forward?
I love the core of Woodford Reserve as it is, so I have no plans to change the character of these expressions; it's all about maintaining that quality. I will be making my own imprint on the Master’s Collection and Distiller Series releases in the many years to come. We currently have the next 10+ years planned out and will continue to add to that list every year. I plan to draw inspiration from history, fun flavor innovation, as well as my current sustainability work in rye and other small grains for future innovation.
Any advice for other women in the industry?
Voice your interests, don’t be afraid to go for a job if you don’t meet all the requirements, say yes even if you don’t know exactly what you are doing, and follow your passions.
What’s your favorite whiskey cocktail at the moment?
We’re getting ready to head into the Kentucky Derby season, which means it's the perfect time to start drinking some classic Mint Juleps and Woodford Spire.
Plan to Attend or Participate in Bar & Restaurant Expo, March 27-29, 2023
To learn about the latest trends, issues and hot topics, and to experience and taste the best products within the bar, restaurant and hospitality industry, plan to attend Bar & Restaurant Expo, March 27-29, 2023 in Las Vegas. Visit BarandRestaurantExpo.com.
To book your sponsorship or exhibit space at Bar & Restaurant Expo, contact:
Veronica Gonnello (for companies A to G) e: [email protected] p: 212-895-8244
Tim Schultz (for companies H to Q) e: [email protected] p: 917-258-8589
Fadi Alsayegh (for companies R to Z) e: [email protected] p: 917-258-5174
Also, be sure to follow Bar & Restaurant on Facebook and Instagram for all the latest industry news and trends.