Award-winning mixologist and author Molly Wellmann is joining the brand as its new Master Taster.
Wellmann, named “Best Bartender / Owner in the Nation” by a leading on-premise spirits media outlet, will contribute to batching and single barrel selections while building on the tasting profile established by Master Blender Emeritus Jackie Zykan.
Continuing Hidden Barn’s Tradition and Growth
Royce Neeley, president and master distiller at Neeley Family Distillery, emphasized the significance of Wellmann’s role. “Jackie got us into a great place with the creation of a style and profile that myself, Bekah Neeley and the Team at Neeley Family Distillery will continue to replicate and build upon,” said Neeley. “The addition of Molly provides a valuable outside tasting perspective, as well as on-premise consumption knowledge, and cocktail crafting expertise from one of the most respected mixologists in the industry. As Hidden Barn moves into its 20th state for distribution, Molly’s knowledge in these areas will be invaluable to help us build brand sales.”
Public Engagement and Expansion Plans
Wellmann will be actively involved with fans and customers at Neeley Family Distillery in Northern Kentucky, participating in bottle signings, tastings, and possibly even bartending. She will also travel to key markets as Hidden Barn expands distribution, sharing her expertise and bourbon history storytelling with consumers.
Wellmann Brings Historic Perspective to Hidden Barn
Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Wellmann stated, “I’m excited to join the team at Hidden Barn, having known Royce and Bekah Neeley and Jackie Zykan for years. One of the things that drew me to working with the Neeley team is Royce’s ‘old school’ distillation techniques, using pot still distillation with his family’s mash recipe they’ve used for generations. Like Royce, I’ve immersed myself in the history of old whiskey, as I’ve used that knowledge in crafting cocktails and curating historically accurate cocktail menus. It seems like the perfect pairing for us to share our love of historic distillation to help Hidden Barn Bourbon expand even further.”
About Molly Wellmann
Based in Cincinnati, Wellmann is a self-taught mixologist with a deep focus on classic cocktails and American whiskey. She is the former owner of several notable bars, including Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar, and currently operates Molly Wellmann Consulting & Entertainment. Wellmann has contributed to publications such as Bourbon+ Magazine, judged major spirits competitions, and frequently speaks at industry events, including Moonshine University. She is also an Executive Bourbon Steward and the author of “Handcrafted Cocktails.”
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