Get ready to pour a little extra pride into your glass—these women-owned whiskey brands are shaking up the spirits world in bold, delicious ways. Whether you’re sipping on something new or celebrating the entrepreneurs behind the bottle, these brands are a must-watch (and must-taste) in 2025.
Freeland Spirits (Portland, OR)
Freeland is a love letter to women, whiskey, and sustainability. Founded by Jill Kuehler and build with a strong team of women,, every bottle celebrates community and creativity with a Pacific Northwest twist.
Why You’ll Love It: Their small-batch whiskey is as bold as their mission—pour one out for female empowerment!
Forbidden Whiskey Co. (Frankfort, KY)
They may be called Forbidden, but trust us—this whiskey deserves to be on every shelf. Blended and selected by the first Master Distiller in Kentucky sine Prohibition, their innovative approach honors the roots of bourbon while pushing the boundaries of what it can be.
Why You’ll Love It: Tradition with a rebellious edge.
Southern Distilling Company (Statesville, NC)
Vienna Disher Dickson, a long time supporter of Bourbon Women and BW Branch Ambassador for North Carolina, is blending history and innovation at Southern Distilling. Rooted in North Carolina heritage, this brand brings a Southern charm to every sip. Their focus on the local community and growing as a source of contract spirits shows that North Carolina’s spirited history is long and delicious.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s history in a glass, with a modern twist.
Milam & Greene Whiskey (Blanco, TX)
Heather Greene is a whiskey whisperer. Known for crafting some of the most flavorful blends in Texas, Her role as ceo, coupled with Marlene Holmes, their master distiller, means that every glass explores what it means to be whiskey and develops the Texas terroir. Milam & Greene is the perfect example of mastery meeting passion.
Why You’ll Love It: Big, bold, Texas-style flavor
Silverback Distillery (Afton, VA)
Christine Riggleman doesn’t just break the mold—she creates new ones. Known for rich, award-winning bourbons, Silverback is all about fierce flavors and fearless women.
Why You’ll Love It: Award-winning spirits that pack a punch.
Brenne Whiskey (France)
Allison Parc is rewriting the whiskey rulebook with single malt made in the heart of France. Yes, you read that right—whiskey with French flair.
Why You’ll Love It: Think croissants, but for your whiskey collection.
Jeptha Creed Distillery (Shelbyville, KY)
Joyce and Autumn Nethery are redefining bourbon by bringing heirloom grains into the mix. This mother-daughter duo proves bourbon-making is in their DNA.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s like a family recipe—but boozy.
Catoctin Creek Distillery (Purcellville, VA)
Run by Becky Harris, Catoctin Creek is serving up organic spirits with heart. Known for their Rye Whiskey, this Virginia gem is a toast to sustainability and quality. They dive deep in supporting their local home base and uplifting the entire American Craft Distilling community with their attention to education, includes and sustainability.
Why You’ll Love It: Good for your palate and the planet.
Boston Harbor Distillery (Boston, MA)
Founder Rhonda Kallman brings a Boston edge to her whiskey lineup, with bold flavors and a focus on craftsmanship.
Why You’ll Love It: Whiskey with a side of grit and greatness.
Buzzard’s Roost (Louisville, KY)
Buzzard’s Roost takes finishing techniques to a whole new level. Their unique approach creates nuanced, unforgettable whiskeys. They were one of the first brands to dive deep into secondary finishing the toasted barrels and their expertise shows in every sip.
Why You’ll Love It: Big flavors, bold moves, unforgettable pours.
Crooked Water Spirits (Minneapolis, MN)
Heather Manley’s Crooked Water is all about elevating everyday whiskey moments. From bourbon to unique blends, this brand makes sipping an adventure.
Why You’ll Love It: Perfect for both the novice and the aficionado.
Two Women-Owned Brands that are Bourbon-Adjacent to Know
Pappy & Co. (Louisville, KY)
Not a distillery, but a must-have for bourbon lovers. Pappy & Co creates bourbon-inspired goodies, from cocktail kits to lifestyle products, perfect for gifting or treating yourself.
Why You’ll Love It: Bourbon-flavored everything—yes, please!
Arteatables (Louisville, KY)
Kelly Ramsey’s incredible culinary skills as the world’s first bourbon steward chocolatier makes every chocolate truffle she crafts match to the beauty of its bourbon. Known for creating custom chocolate truffles for the top bourbon and whiskey brands in the world, her shop is a must visit for every bourbon lover in Louisville.
Why You’ll Love it: Bourbon and chocolate are a delicious combination, but her chocolates are next level pairings.
Cheers to Women Shaking Up the Whiskey World
These brands are proof that women are leading the way in the whiskey industry with innovation, passion, and a whole lot of flavor. Supporting them means more than just a great drink—it’s about celebrating the women who make every sip special.
So, pour yourself a glass, try something new, and raise a toast to these incredible women-owned whiskey brands. Cheers!