In the lead-up to International Women’s Day on March 8, a significant event marked a moment of pride for the whiskey community, particularly in the United States. Marlene Holmes, the master distiller of Milam & Greene Whiskey based in Texas, was inducted into Whisky Magazine’s prestigious Hall of Fame. This accolade is especially noteworthy as Holmes is one of the first American women and currently the sole female distiller in the U.S. to achieve such recognition. This honor is not merely a personal milestone; it underscores her indelible contributions to an industry that has traditionally been dominated by men.
Holmes joins an elite circle of under 100 other whiskey visionaries who have shaped the contemporary spirits landscape. Icons like Elmer T. Lee of Buffalo Trace, Jimmy Russell of Wild Turkey, and Parker Beam of Heaven Hill have paved the way for aspiring distillers, and now Marlene’s name graces their ranks. Her induction into the Hall of Fame highlights not only her mastery of distilling but also her profound legacy in the whiskey world.
Holmes embarked on her whiskey journey in 1990, working at Jim Beam in Kentucky. Under the mentorship of Booker Noe—an illustrious figure credited with the resurgence of small-batch bourbon—she honed her craft, learning the nuances of whiskey production and taking on the daunting task of managing over 1,400 barrels a day. This experience laid a solid foundation for her future endeavors, yet after nearly three decades, Holmes made a monumental decision: she relocated to Blanco, Texas, to bring her expertise to Milam & Greene Whiskey.
In Texas, Holmes quickly distinguished herself as the most knowledgeable whiskey maker in the state, steering Milam & Greene to national acclaim. The distillery has since garnered awards, including a Double Gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition for their Straight Rye Whiskey Finished in Port Wine Casks, a testament to Holmes’s exceptional craftsmanship. Her recognition didn’t stop there; she was crowned Master Distiller of the Year at the 2024 Women of Whiskey Awards, celebrating her trailblazing efforts in the craft.
Marlene’s approach to distilling goes beyond conventional methods, seeking to redefine whiskey-making for a new generation. “To be recognized alongside global leaders in whiskey-making is truly an honor beyond words,” Holmes remarked, reflecting on her groundbreaking achievements. Her humility shines through, as she humorously acknowledges her graying hair as another earned badge of honor, symbolizing her dedication and journey in an often unforgiving industry.
Milam & Greene, co-founded by Texas entrepreneur Marsha Milam and CEO Heather Greene, is a woman-led distillery that champions innovation. Greene, a pioneer in her own right as the first woman on Scotland’s Scotch Malt Whisky Society tasting panel, recognizes that Holmes’s accomplishments transcend the brand. “Marlene’s win isn’t just for Milam & Greene; it’s for a new generation of Bourbon fans seeking a whiskey that shatters expectations,” Greene states. This sentiment highlights an essential shift within the whiskey community, where diversity and innovation are becoming the new normal.
Holmes’s induction into the Whisky Magazine Hall of Fame at the 2025 World Whiskies Awards marks a milestone not just for her, but also for the entire Texas whiskey landscape. As founder Marsha Milam points out, “Her influence reaches far beyond distilling,” suggesting that Holmes’s legacy will inspire countless others to enter the field and challenge long-standing perceptions about who can make whiskey and where it can come from.
Texas Hill Country, known for its scenic beauty, is now emerging as a vibrant hub for whiskey innovation, thanks in large part to the efforts of distillers like Holmes. Her passion, dedication, and skill are influencing a reimagining of traditional whiskey-making practices, paving the way for future generations to explore, create, and enjoy this beloved spirit. As the whiskey world evolves, Marlene Holmes stands as a beacon of progress, showcasing the profound impact of women in an industry ripe for transformation.