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Elizabeth McCall named master distiller of Woodford Reserve

07 February 2023 By Jessica Mason

Brown-Forman has named Elizabeth McCall as the new master distiller for its Woodford Reserve Bourbon brand.

Speaking to the drinks business, McCall said: “I am overwhelmed by the tremendous outpouring of love and support from family, friends, and colleagues. This is a major role to step into. Chris Morris is a legend in the industry and someone I have looked up to and will continue to look to for guidance and support. I am honored to carry on the legacy he started with this exquisite brand, Woodford Reserve.”

McCall, who succeeds former master distiller Chris Morris who will assume the role of master distiller emeritus, has been training for the role for over a decade.

In her newly-appointed position, McCall will oversee quality and innovation efforts and bring new Woodford Reserve products to market as well as lead the brand’s special, rare Bourbon releases, including the Master’s Collection and Distillery Series.

Morris added: “I am proud of and confident in Elizabeth’s ability to maintain the award-winning flavour profile of the Woodford Reserve family into the next generation. Her inquisitive nature bodes well for those who have come to expect innovative flavour concepts from our Master’s Collection and Distillery Series offerings. The future couldn’t be more promising for Woodford Reserve.”

McCall joined Brown-Forman in 2009 as a member of the Research & Development department and began her career setting up tasting panels to ensure quality and consistency with the company’s products. She is the second generation of her family to work in the spirits industry – following her mother’s footsteps – after earning her master’s degree from the University of Louisville.

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