The Demeter Collection: Celebrating Women in Whisky
In a groundbreaking move, the world witnessed the first-ever whisky auction dedicated to honoring the remarkable achievements of women in the whisky industry. Hosted online by the renowned Whisky Auctioneer platform in collaboration with the OurWhisky Foundation, this auction aimed to not only offer whisky enthusiasts the chance to acquire rare bottles but also to support a noble cause.
Named after the Greek goddess of grain, The Demeter Collection showcased a meticulously curated selection of unique releases, each one intricately crafted and inspired by the industry’s most talented women. Joe Wilson, the head curator and spirits specialist at Whisky Auctioneer, emphasized the importance of diversity in an industry historically lacking in this aspect.
The OurWhisky Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering professional women in whisky globally, has been at the forefront of advocating for inclusivity and diversity within the industry. Their groundbreaking global survey highlighted the prevalence of unconscious bias and micro-aggressions faced by women in whisky, shedding light on the need for change.
Becky Paskin, the founder of the OurWhisky Foundation, drew parallels between the lesser-known Greek goddess Demeter and the foundation’s mission. Through the Demeter Collection, the aim was to honor the grain goddess and share the untold stories of women in whisky, all while raising essential funds to support and empower future generations of women in the industry.
The auction, featuring 18 exclusive lots, including rare blends and commemorative bottlings, concluded successfully, with all proceeds, including buyer’s fees, being donated to the OurWhisky Foundation. Notable highlights included a 31-year-old blend from House of Hazelwood, The Loch Lomond Sonata Collection, and a special release by The Lakes Distillery crafted by whisky maker Sarah Burgess.
Moving forward, the Demeter Collection will be a biennial event, with all proceeds continuing to support the OurWhisky Foundation’s initiatives in championing women in whisky.
Empowering Women, One Dram at a Time
The whisky industry’s journey towards inclusivity and gender equality took a significant step forward with the groundbreaking auction dedicated to celebrating women’s contributions. As the industry continues to evolve, initiatives like The Demeter Collection serve as a beacon of hope, inspiring future generations of talent and fostering a more diverse and inclusive whisky landscape.
Looking Ahead: A Toast to Diversity
With the success of the inaugural auction, the future looks bright for women in whisky. The industry’s commitment to recognizing and empowering women not only enriches the narrative but also paves the way for a more inclusive and vibrant whisky community.
