Sixteen Heaven Hill team members recently had the opportunity to attend the annual three-day James B. Beam Institute Industry Conference in Lexington, Kentucky. The conference included a wide range of presenters discussing various subjects, from sustainability and fermentation to hospitality, technology, marketing, and beyond. These sessions offered valuable insights for those in the spirits industry, providing a wealth of knowledge and learning opportunities.

Quality Supervisor, Abby Long, had the opportunity to present two important research papers: Toward Industrial Cooker Operation Monitoring with Raman Spectroscopy and Whiskey Maturation in Changing Climates: Four Years of Data. Abby’s presentation was nothing short of exceptional, and we are beyond proud of how she represented Heaven Hill. The positive feedback from both her peers and industry professionals was a direct reflection of the passion and effort she poured into her research. It was clear that she wasn’t just sharing her findings—she was elevating Heaven Hill’s presence in the industry. Abby’s success is a powerful reminder of the incredible team we have, and we’re thrilled to see her grow even more in the future.

“It was an amazing experience to see Abby talk about the maturation process while the Heaven Hill team was watching and there to cheer her on.” – Private Barrel Selection Specialist, Sylvia Hans

The conference offered valuable insights and new ideas from other distilleries, sparking inspiration for future work. It reinforced the idea that “a rising tide lifts all boats”—even in a competitive industry, sharing knowledge benefits everyone. The experience encouraged a focus on ongoing research and education, fostering new ideas and approaches for growth and innovation. In addition to Abby’s impactful research presentation, Director of Environment & Sustainability, Rachel Nally, moderated a session on energy efficiency, while Co-President, Kate Latts, participated in a leadership panel with top industry figures.

Beyond the presentations, the conference allowed our Heaven Hill employees to connect and strengthen relationships across departments. They had the opportunity to spend time together, sharing meals and experiences, which deepened bonds within the team and created a sense of community.

The conference was a proud moment for Heaven Hill. It provided valuable opportunities for learning, growth, and recognition, and was a reminder of the strength of the Heaven Hill team. Let’s continue to make an impact in our work and look ahead with confidence as we shape the future of the spirits industry!