Author: Cary Ann

Named “The First Lady of Tennessee Whiskey,” Cary Ann developed an interest in whiskey as soon as she was legally able to indulge. Working her way from behind a bar into supplier and wholesaler roles, her passion for all things brown water inspired her to create Straight Up 615 in 2014. Through this outlet, Cary Ann discusses the happenings and trends in the whiskey business from her unique perspective. Cary Ann earned her Certified Specialist of Spirits award from the Society of Wine Educators and pursued the Level 3 Award in Spirits from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust. She strives to continue her education, finding opportunities to learn from industry veterans, historians, and ambassadors. As a Stave & Thief Society Executive Bourbon Steward, she focuses on educating enthusiasts and industry members alike. With the Nashville Whiskey Festival, she produced the first Corkdorks Whiskey U in 2019, a series of educational seminars including the first-ever Tennessee Distillers Panel, and created a sold-out virtual version of the festival in 2020. Cary Ann curates bespoke events with industry superstars, created the Taste of Tennessee festival to highlight the state’s distillers and craft brewers, produced the award-winning documentary, Straight Up Kentucky Bourbon, regularly produces and moderates panels, events, and seminars to shine a light on women in the industry, provides consultation, and regularly participates in barrel selections and sensory training. Cary Ann has developed close relationships with distillers and distilleries across the country. She is also a regular cast member on the multi-award-winning, James Beard-nominated podcast, Sips, Suds, & Smokes. No matter the activity, Cary Ann is never watered down and always Straight Up!