Old Forester names new master taster
kentucky bourbon brand old forester has appointed Louisville native Melissa Rift as its new master taster and brand ambassador.
Rift has taken the reigns from predecessor Jackie Zykan, who left in July to launch Hidden Barn Whiskey.
Rift most recently held a leadership role at Beam Suntory and previously worked as single barrel program director at Bulleit Distilling Co. Her first experiences in the industry, however, were during her time as a Bourbon tour guide.
In her role as master taster and brand ambassador, Rift will be responsible for the continued revitalisation of Old Forester, the only Bourbon to exist before, during and after Prohibition and the founding brand of Brown-Forman.
"Melissa brings a dynamic personality, a devotion to the Bourbon industry and an enthusiasm for the rich heritage of our 152-year-old brand," says Mark Bacon, senior vice president and managing director of super-premium American whiskey at Brown-Forman. "We're thrilled to welcome her to the Brown-Forman family and are excited for her insights to amplify this new chapter in Old Forester's legacy."
Having been born in Louisville, the home of Old Forester, and now residing there with wife Brittany, Rift is keen to bring the brand to a newer, broader audience of consumers, media and bartenders.
"As the country's first bottled Bourbon, Old Forester has such a history – but also an opportunity to usher in a new era for the entire industry," she says. "I'm extremely excited to create a more inclusive Bourbon industry to reflect the changing face of our beloved consumers and represent the Old Forester legacy so many love.”
