In March 2024, coinciding with Women’s History Month, Whisky Auctioneer is set to host an auction dedicated to women in the whisky industry.
The auction, which will be the first of its kind in the world, is in collaboration with OurWhisky Foundation. The foundation is a non-profit dedicated to supporting and recognizing the achievements of women in the whisky sector. Historically, the whisky industry has been a male-dominated area.
The Demeter Collection
On offer in this special auction is The Demeter Collection: a curated set of rare scotch whiskies that have been crafted by (or inspired by) women. As such, the collection includes bottlings such as the Laphroaig 25 Year Old: The Bessie Williamson Story, the Nc’nean Aon 17-302, and the GlenDronach 30 Year Old Single Cask. Women who are celebrated in these whiskies include Bessie Williamson, Annabel Thomas, and Rachel Barrie.
The Demeter Collection is named after the ancient Greek goddess, Demeter, who was the goddess of the harvest and agriculture. Presiding over crops and grains, Demeter would have stewardship over the very ingredients needed to distill whisky: barley and grains.
OurWhisky Foundation Supports Women In Whisky
Proceeds from the sale, including Whisky Auctioneer’s buyer’s fees, will be donated to the OurWhisky Foundation. As such, the funds will support their important work in bolstering the success of women in the whisky industry. The foundation’s initiatives include a mentorship program and the opportunity for women to work with big industry brands to create a more inclusive atmosphere for future workers.
Of the upcoming auction Joe Wilson, Head Curator and Spirits Specialist at Whisky Auctioneer, said “[h]istorically, our industry has lacked diversity, and that’s something we’re determined to change. To that end, we have been delighted to witness the incredible achievements of The OurWhisky Foundation and are thrilled to host this auction and shine a spotlight on the stories of women within our industry.”
Becky Paskin, founder of the OurWhisky Association, added “[t]hrough the Demeter Collection we want to honour the grain goddess and tell the untold stories of women in whisky, while raising much-needed funds to enable the OurWhisky Foundation to support, recognise and empower future generations of women in the industry.”
The auction will run from March 29th to April 8th, 2024 on the Whisky Auctioneer website. You can register to take part in the auction here.
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