Cyndi Smith - Fierce & Kind Spirits
Jessie Birschbach - The SOMM Journal



While headlines may celebrate a “new wave” of women in whiskey, the truth is: women have always been part of the story. From pioneering distillers and bootleggers to modern-day founders, blenders, and innovators, women have shaped the whiskey world for centuries—even if their contributions haven’t always made the label.
In this bold, insightful panel, meet the women carrying that legacy forward—building brands, crafting spirits, and leading companies that are redefining what whiskey looks, tastes, and sounds like in today’s market. The conversation will dive into the artistry and business of whiskey, the pressures of building in a competitive space, and the value of inclusive leadership in an evolving industry.
This is a conversation about craft, legacy, and the unapologetic power of showing up, generation after generation.
17550 Bernardo Oaks Drive
San Diego, CA 92128
United States
Gain insight into how female founders and distillers approach brand-building, flavor development, and consumer connection in a crowded spirits marketplace.
Identify leadership strategies that foster equity, creativity, and resilience in both entrepreneurial and corporate spirits environments.