“Mother of Bourbon” Tells the Forgotten Story of Whiskey Pioneer Mary Dowling
Mary Dowling Whiskey Company has announced the release of Mother of Bourbon: The Greatest American Whiskey Story Never Told, a new historical fiction novel published by Post Hill Press. The book tells the remarkable story of Mary Dowling, a pioneering woman in the whiskey industry who overcame significant challenges in the male-dominated world of pre-Prohibition bourbon. Co-authored by novelist Eric Goodman and bourbon maker Kaveh Zamanian, the novel is now available online through Amazon and Barnes & Noble, as well as at Carmichael’s Bookstore in Louisville, Kentucky.
A Story of Defiance, Legacy, and Innovation
The novel draws from the real-life experiences of Mary Dowling, who succeeded in an industry and era that often excluded women. “Mary Dowling was a true original — a woman who challenged convention and shaped the course of American whiskey,” said Kaveh Zamanian, co-author and founder of Mary Dowling Whiskey Company. “With Mother of Bourbon, we’re not just honoring her, we’re giving her the place in history she always deserved.”
Authors Blend Bourbon History with Narrative Storytelling
Eric Goodman, known for his work in historical fiction, partnered with Zamanian to turn fragments of Mary Dowling’s history into a compelling narrative. The book chronicles Dowling’s life as she faces personal tragedy, systemic discrimination, and the legal restrictions of Prohibition. The novel also aims to contextualize Dowling’s influence on American whiskey through a fictional lens grounded in historical research.
Industry Voices Praise the Novel’s Contribution to Bourbon History
The book has received praise from whiskey writers and historians alike. Maggie Kimberl of American Whiskey Magazine called the book “a voice to one of Kentucky bourbon’s nearly forgotten bourbon barons.” Clay Risen, author of American Whiskey, Bourbon & Rye, stated that the book “gives her the spotlight she deserves.” Other endorsements came from Susan Reigler and Fred Minnick, both of whom highlighted the novel’s ability to entertain while educating readers about an overlooked chapter in whiskey history.
Extending the Brand’s Mission Through Storytelling
Mary Dowling Whiskey Company has positioned the novel as a continuation of its mission to honor its namesake’s legacy. According to the company, both the book and its spirits aim to “shine a light on her remarkable story” and celebrate the bold spirit that defines Mary Dowling’s legacy. The company views storytelling as a powerful way to reinforce its brand identity and cultural relevance within the bourbon industry.
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