Across the global drinks landscape, a remarkable wave of innovation is being led by women who redefine what it means to create, curate, and inspire. Their influence reaches far beyond the bar, the vineyard, or the distillery. They are visionaries and innovators, shaping how the world tastes and experiences its favorite spirits. In 2025, these seven women in the Drinks Industry stand at the forefront of progress, proving that creativity, resilience, and craftsmanship have no boundaries.
Stephanie Macleod – The Guardian of Time
In Scotland, Stephanie Macleod, Master Blender at Dewar’s, continues to redefine the art of maturation. Her approach to blending is rooted in patience, precision, and science. She oversees every cask with an eye for harmony, proving that technical mastery and intuition can coexist beautifully. Under her leadership, Dewar’s has become a benchmark for quality, winning international acclaim for its innovative aging techniques. Stephanie’s work reminds the industry that true craftsmanship begins with respect for both history and time.
Joy Spence – The Voice of Jamaican Rum
Few names command the same reverence in rum as Joy Spence, Master Blender at Appleton Estate. For over four decades, she has been the creative heart behind some of the world’s most celebrated rums. Her deep understanding of chemistry and flavor transformed Jamaica’s rum into a global symbol of excellence. Joy’s influence extends beyond her blends; she represents authentic Caribbean heritage and the strength of women leading with purpose. Her legacy continues to inspire new generations of distillers across the world.
Victoria Eady Butler – The Legacy Keeper
In Tennessee, Victoria Eady Butler, great-great-granddaughter of the legendary Nearest Green, carries forward one of the most important stories in American whiskey. As Master Blender at Uncle Nearest, she honors her ancestor’s pioneering role in the birth of Tennessee whiskey while building her own path of excellence. Her blends combine tradition, identity, and emotion, creating spirits that celebrate community and progress. Victoria’s presence in the drinks industry is both a tribute and a transformation, keeping one of whiskey’s most powerful legacies alive.
Rachel Barrie – The Architect of Flavor
Known as The First Lady of Scotch, Rachel Barrie has built her reputation on innovation and authenticity in the drinks industry. As Master Blender for The GlenDronach, BenRiach, and Glenglassaugh, she bridges heritage with experimentation, bringing new life to traditional Scotch through wood science and creative cask selection. Rachel’s vision has elevated her whiskies into global favorites while setting new standards for balance and complexity. Her leadership reflects how scientific curiosity and artistic intuition can coexist in perfect harmony.
Hannah Lanfear – The Educator of Modern Mixology
A London-based educator, writer, and bartender, Hannah Lanfear has become a defining voice in mixology education. Through her platform, The Mixing Class, she trains professionals worldwide, shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future behind the bar. Her focus on knowledge, equality, and mentorship has made her a force for cultural change within the industry. Hannah’s influence proves that education is the most powerful tool for progress in modern hospitality.
Erin Kelleher – The Innovator of Sustainability
From California’s wine country to international spirits collaborations, Erin Kelleher has become a champion of green innovation at the top of the drinks industry. As a consultant and distiller, she integrates sustainable technology and circular production models into modern distilleries. Her work emphasizes renewable energy, waste reduction, and water efficiency, showing that environmental care and great taste are inseparable. Erin stands at the intersection of science and sustainability, leading the drinks industry toward a cleaner, more responsible future.
Monica Berg – The Visionary of Global Bar Culture
Oslo-born Monica Berg, co-owner of Tayēr + Elementary in London, is one of the most respected voices in contemporary bartending. Her creative philosophy celebrates collaboration, seasonality, and emotion, shaping a new global approach to bar culture. Monica co-founded P(our), a non-profit organization fostering community and dialogue within the drinks world. Her impact extends far beyond the counter; she represents the next generation of inclusive and intelligent leadership, redefining hospitality worldwide.
Where Barlist Meets the Future
These seven women represent more than success stories. They embody a global movement that values artistry, equality, and authenticity. Barlist celebrates its achievements as part of its mission to honor those who elevate the drinks world through innovation and passion. Each story is a reminder that progress is most powerful when it is shared- from still to bar, and from one generation to the next.
The evolution of the drinks industry is being written by many hands, and in 2025, women continue to guide its most exciting chapters. Their influence transforms tradition into momentum and creativity into legacy. For every future maker, mixer, or master blender, these names serve as a beacon of what dedication, intelligence, and vision can achieve.
