By now, I’m pretty sure you’re aware that March is Women’s History Month. Just in case this is news to you, go ahead and search #WomensHistoryMonth or #InternationalWomensDay and you’ll discover a slew of women who are doing some amazing stuff. Today, however, I want to highlight a few women who are pioneering the liquor industry.
It’s no secret that the world of bartending/mixology/spirits is a largely male-dominated one. However, many would be surprised to learn that there are lots of women who are leading the pack and their contributions are slowly reshaping the face of our industry. So, in honor of Women’s History Month, I’d like to salute a few women who have made their mark in the world of libations.
Ada "Coley" Coleman
Ada “Coley” Coleman is one of the pioneering female bartenders. Coleman was the head bartender at the American Bar in the Savoy and served libations to the likes of Mark Twain and the Prince of Whales. Coleman is widely recognized as being the creator of the Hanky Panky cocktail. More about Coleman.
Whiskey-loving Women
I’m a proud card-carrying member of the whiskey appreciation club and I love that there has been a surge of women joining us. According to Fred Minnick, author of Whiskey Women, women represent 37% of whiskey drinkers in the U.S. NPR recently did a great piece on women and whiskey. Read the full article here.
Alba Huerta
The cocktail renaissance is alive and well in Houston and Alba Huerta is at the forefront. Her cocktail bar, Julep is a bourbon-lovers paradise topped off with Southern charm. In her recent Eater interview, Huerta shares her insights gained from her 20-year long career. She also discusses her point of view on being a female bartender. Read the full article here.
Shatbhi Basu
Noted as the first female bartender in India, Shatbhi Basu has paved the way for women across the country. It’s amazing to think that it’s only been eight years since the courts overturned an archaic law banning women from becoming bartenders in India. Basu is literally building the foundation for women to build sustainable careers in bartending in India. Talk about being an innovator. More about Basu.
Ylva Binder
I had the pleasure of meeting Ylva Binder last year during the Pink Your Drink competition in NYC. Binder is one of the few women who produces liquor. As the founder of Rhuby Liqueur, Binder has developed a unique rhubarb liqueur that not only tastes good, but does good. Since its inception, Rhuby has been a major support of breast cancer awareness around the globe. To learn more about Binder and Pink Your Drink, visit Rhuby's site.
Do you know of any libation ladies who you'd like to recognize? If so, tweet me @LPLibations #LibationLadies.