We put a call-out to the women in Australian distilling to give us an insight into who they are, and why they chose this industry, here’s some of their responses!
CARLIE DYER
Blender & Distiller at Starward, VIC
HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN IN THE INDUSTRY?
4-7 years
WHAT SPARKED YOUR INTEREST IN THE INDUSTRY?
"I started my journey in the wine industry in 2011 and the blossoming craft spirits industry in 2018 really appealed to me and lured me in!"
YOUR MOST PROUD MOMENTS IN THE INDUSTRY?
"When Starward launched into the USA in 2019 I was featured in the New York Times. That’s pretty neat! I’m also proud of how well we have done in the San Francisco Spirits awards in 2022 & 2023, as a Blender I hold our whiskies pretty close to heart."
WHAT HAVE YOU FOUND TO BE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES IN THE INDUSTRY?
"The lack of female representation has been a challenge. There are many misconceptions around women & whisky and as much as we are moving away from this it's still there to some degree. In saying that, female and non binary presence is definitely expanding and in my time within the industry I've seen exponential growth in whisky becoming a more inclusive and diverse drink, which we really champion at Starward. Whisky is for everyone!"
WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE THAT KNOWS NOTHING ABOUT AUSSIE CRAFT SPIRITS?
"Australia has over 300 distilleries making top quality spirits that have won best of their category in the world. Find out what’s near you and go check them out and support and buy local!"
WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT YOU WOULD WANT TO TELL YOUR YOUNGER SELF?
"That my future would lie in spirits instead of Audio engineering! That would have saved me a bit of time and money with studies haha."
WHAT IS YOUR PARTY TRICK?
"I can play guitar, drums and sing and also do the worm/caterpillar. Not at the same time unfortunately."
WHO HAS INSPIRED YOU THE MOST IN YOUR CAREER SO FAR?
"Rachel Barrie master blender of GlenDronach, BenRiach and Glenglassaugh. She’s a legend and genius, I hope my resume looks as good as hers in the future."
ANYTHING ELSE THAT YOU WANT US TO KNOW?
"I love the platform and promotion that Women of Australian distilling do. It’s so empowering and impactful and I hope I can inspire more women to join the industry!"