Whiskey Women: Women Saving Bourbon, Scotch, and Irish Whiskey

Shortly after her graduation from the University of Glasgow in 1934, Elizabeth "Bessie" Williamson began her career as a temporary secretary at the Laphroaig Distillery on the Scottish island Islay. Instead of simply performing administrative duties, Williamson actively engaged in the tasting room with her male colleagues, studying the distillation process and impressing them with her extensive knowledge of Scottish whisky.

Following the passing of the owner of Laphroaig, Williamson took over the esteemed company and consequently became the spokesperson for the entire Scotch whisky industry in America. Through her impressive interactions with clients and her unwavering passion as the trade ambassador of the Scotch Whisky Association, she swiftly gained recognition and admiration within the industry.

In the book "Whiskey Women," the remarkable stories of the women who played a pivotal role in establishing and shaping the spirits industry are narrated. This includes the ancient beer brewers and distillers from Mesopotamia, as well as the fearless bootleggers during the Prohibition era in America.

Throughout history, women have actively participated in the distillation, marketing, and ownership of major spirits companies, such as Bushmills, Johnnie Walker, and Maker's Mark. Williamson, along with many other influential women, has significantly contributed to the development of Scotch, bourbon, and Irish whiskey. However, their contributions have largely remained untold, until now.

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