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Join Bourbon Women Michigan as we welcome the women behind New Riff Distilling for a special tasting and storytelling experience at the iconic Benstein Grille.

Join Mollie Lewis – President, New Riff Distilling and Rawnica Dillingham – Chief Sales Officer, New Riff Distilling for an engaging and intimate experience, featuring a guided tasting, storytelling, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it means to bring innovation and intention to every bottle.

You’ll sip through a thoughtfully curated selection of New Riff whiskeys, dive into each expression’s unique profile, and learn how these women are helping to shape the future of the whiskey world.

This exclusive evening features:

• A New Riff welcome cocktail
• A guided tasting of signature New Riff expressions
• Mollie Lewis, President of New Riff Distilling, sharing the origin, ethos, and evolution of the brand — including how she stepped into her father’s legacy and is helping lead New Riff into its next chapter
• Rawnica Dillingham, Chief Sales Officer, discussing New Riff’s national growth strategy and the cultural power of women-led spirits leadership 
• Snacks, spirited conversation, and audience Q&A

🎟 $40 BW Members | $55 Non-Members | $100 Bundle (includes 1-year BW Membership)

Whether you're a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or just starting your whiskey journey, this is a rare opportunity to connect with the trailblazers behind the bottle.

About New Riff Distilling:

Located in Newport, Kentucky, New Riff is a family-owned, independent distillery grounded in tradition yet unafraid of experimentation. From their bottled-in-bond bourbon and rye to innovative limited releases, New Riff’s commitment to quality and transparency has made them a favorite among modern whiskey lovers.

About Rawnica Dillingham:

Rawnica Dillingham brings over 25 years of experience in beverage alcohol and hospitality to her role as Chief Sales Officer at New Riff Distilling. Her career has focused on strategic growth, customer engagement, and building strong distributor and trade relationships.

Before joining New Riff, she served as Director of Sales and National Director of Consumer Experience at Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, where she led portfolio expansion, national events, and brand partnerships. She also held key roles at Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits, managing brands like Beam Suntory, Campari, and Wild Turkey.

Rawnica is a committed advocate for women and underrepresented voices in the industry. She serves on the Scholarship Committee for Women of the Vine & Spirits, the Education Committee for the USBG, The Mentorship and Education Committee for Bourbon Women and is an Ambassador for CORE.

Outside of work, she enjoys gardening, reading, and exploring classic cocktails. A Cincinnati native, she’s also a wife, mother, and grandmother who values connection, inclusion, and authenticity in all she does.

About Mollie Lewis:

Mollie Lewis became president of New Riff Distilling in March 2024, marking the second generation of family leadership at the independently owned distillery. After serving as sales director for a decade and helping launch the company in 2014 alongside her father and founder, Ken Lewis, Mollie now leads New Riff with a strong focus on community and impact while shaping its next chapter with a fresh perspective and a deep respect for the distillery’s roots.

Born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky, Mollie began her career in the wine and spirits industry after earning her degree from the Culinary Institute of America in Napa Valley. Her experience spans roles as a sommelier, distributor, and international export manager, with time spent in San Francisco and Italy before returning home to help grow New Riff.

As president, she champions the distillery’s mission and vision and serves as its voice in the community, representing New Riff through partnerships, media, and industry associations.Mollie brings her family’s entrepreneurial spirit to the distillery’s decision making, with an eye toward innovation, independence, and making some of the world’s best whiskey.

About the Benstein Grille:

Opened in 2015, Benstein Grille has become a local favorite in Commerce Township, offering a welcoming atmosphere and a menu that blends classic American dishes with modern twists. Known for its attentive service and community feel, it's a spot where locals gather for everything from casual dinners to special occasions. Whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor, Benstein Grille provides a comfortable setting to enjoy good food and great company.