Becoming the first female leader in your field positions you as an innovator. However, achieving this feat in the spirits industry elevates you to an even more significant role: a guiding light for all the other women in whiskey production who look up to you. This is true for Lexie Phillips, who was appointed assistant distiller in early 2020 and has firmly established herself as a knowledgeable figure in the world of Jack Daniel’s.
Every bottle of Jack Daniel’s originates from Lynchburg, Tennessee, and the production numbers are staggering. Last year, the brand shipped 126,000,000 liters of whiskey to 170 nations. Phillips holds the distinction of being the first female to lead in the distillery’s 150-year legacy.
While pursuing her degree in agribusiness—because, as she explains to SUCCESS, the planet relies heavily on agriculture—Phillips enrolled in a course titled Chemistry and Wine. “We explored the entire process: utilizing yeast, transforming sugars into alcohol, and that’s where my passion for the craft ignited. This also reignited my thoughts about Jack Daniel’s,” she reminisces.
Discover how Phillips transitioned from acquiring knowledge about the craft to overseeing its production.
SUCCESS: It’s safe to assume you’re not the first in your family to join Jack Daniel’s.
Lexie Phillips: I come from a lineage of four generations. It started with my great-grandfather back in the 1940s and has flowed through the family since. My great-aunt worked in the bottling department and was instrumental in helping me start my journey here. After working in bottling, I moved to quality control, where I interacted with several former whiskey makers. One woman, Jessica Hartline, played a significant role in motivating me to take a position in the stillhouse. She told me, “Lexie, this work is demanding and dirty. You need a good mechanical mindset. It suits you perfectly.”
You recognized that was your desired destination, but what steps did you take to get there?
LP: In 2014, I had my first significant interview. I found myself in a room filled with human resources personnel, distillery managers, and the master distiller. I stated, “I’m all dressed up for you today, but you should know I’m a jeans-and-T-shirt type of person. I’m capable of working on John Deere lawn mowers without needing a tutorial. I’m comfortable changing my own oil.” My manager later said that was the moment they realized I was suited for the stillhouse. That had been my aspiration all along. I became the sixth woman to work in whiskey production as a distillery operator at Jack Daniel’s. While some may consider it a boys’ club, that’s far from the truth. The work is physically demanding, and not many women are inclined to pursue it.
Next came your appointment as Jack Daniel’s first female distiller. That must feel incredible.
LP: When I began this role in 2020, part of the world was in lockdown. It was an unusual time to step into this position. However, at a local concert, one of our tour guides approached me and said, “I’m so proud of everything you’re achieving for women at Jack Daniel’s.” That’s when the reality hit me that I actually am the first woman in this role. I felt ecstatic. That joy continues to resonate with me. It’s genuinely humbling to be viewed as a pioneer for those who will follow in my footsteps. I certainly won’t be the last.
What are some of your responsibilities as assistant distiller?
LP: I serve as a brand ambassador, traveling to share insights about whiskey production. Plus, I still spend considerable time in the stillhouse, which is where my true passion lies.
Without delving deeply into the specifics of Jack Daniel’s production, can you provide a basic overview?
LP: Each bottle begins with the raw materials. Our mash bill comprises 80% corn, 12% malted barley, and 8% rye. We ensure that our grains are of the highest quality. Next comes the water. All the water used in conjunction with these grains is sourced from our cave spring hollow, which draws 800 gallons every minute from deep underground. Moreover, our yeast strain can be traced back to the days of prohibition.
So the ingredients are grains, spring water, and yeast. Is that what makes it Jack Daniel’s?
LP: Not just yet. After we combine those ingredients, fermentation occurs, which is where the spirit begins its life. We allow for fermentation to take place over three to seven days, followed by distillation in 100% copper stills, ensuring a cleaner spirit that retains natural sulfurs present during fermentation. We distill to 140 proof before filtering through 10 feet of sugar maple charcoal.
When does the whiskey you’ve crafted enter the barrels for aging?
LP: First, we construct the barrels. Ours undergo toasting and charring. The toasting process heats the oak, allowing many wood sugars to break down. Once we have prepared the barrels, we fill them and place them in the barrelhouse, where they will reside for the duration of their aging process.
It’s evident that considerable effort goes into each barrel of Jack Daniel’s, and this isn’t a small-batch operation.
LP: The distillery spans approximately 3,000 acres, with around 300 of those dedicated to the main distillery and cave spring. Our daily output can vary, but we have a maximum capacity of filling 2,500 barrels in a single day.
Reflecting on your achievements since starting in the bottling division, is there a particular aspect you’re most proud of within Jack Daniel’s history?
LP: A standout moment for me was when my husband—who also works at Jack Daniel’s—and I collaborated on a Distillery Series. This is our experimental line available solely in Tennessee. About a year ago, we each had a bottle bearing our names. Both bottles contained rye whiskey, but they were finished in different barrel types—mine in a high-toast oak barrel, while his was in a high-toast maple barrel. This whole experience truly showcased the familial spirit of Jack Daniel’s.
Are there additional ways the company acknowledges your leadership?
LP: We host an event known as Women of the Grapes and Grain, gathering women from Brown Forman who have similar roles to mine. During this event, we discuss the mentors who have supported us, those we’ve guided, and our career journeys. Each of us brings a unique story. None of us expected to find ourselves in leadership positions within the spirits industry.
While serving as a brand ambassador, you must meet countless Jack Daniel’s enthusiasts. What lessons have you learned that resonate with you?
LP: My favorite aspect of engaging with consumers is hearing how Jack Daniel’s has impacted their lives. Stories like, “I bonded with my spouse over a Jack Daniel’s,” or “I have a Jack Daniel’s tattoo,” or “I cherished moments with my grandpa while sipping Jack Daniel’s on the porch.” These narratives send shivers down my spine. In our small town where we produce whiskey, it’s easy to lose sight of the broader impact. There’s significantly more to Jack Daniel’s than just the whiskey itself, and these shared stories highlight that depth.
