Straight Up 615

Cary Ann developed a passion for spirits and whiskey in particular over the last few decades. Working her way from restaurant management into supplier and wholesaler roles, her love of all things brown water inspired the creation of Straight Up 615. Through this outlet, Cary Ann writes about the happenings and trends in the whiskey business from her unique perspective. Cary Ann earned her Certified Specialist of Spirits award from the Society of Wine Educators and is currently a candidate for the Level 3 Award in Spirits from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust. She strives to continue her education, finding opportunities to learn from industry veterans, historians, and ambassadors. As a Stave & Thief Society Executive Bourbon Steward, she focuses on educating enthusiasts and industry members alike. She produced the first virtual version of the Nashville Whiskey Festival in 2020, curates bespoke events with industry superstars, created the Taste of Tennessee festival to highlight the state’s distillers and craft brewers, produced a documentary, Straight Up Kentucky Bourbon, produces and moderates panels and seminars, provides consultation, writes a monthly column in The Whiskey Wash, and regularly participates in barrel selections and sensory training. Cary Ann has developed close relationships with distillers and distilleries across the country. She is also a regular cast member on the award-winning podcast, Sips, Suds, & Smokes, where everything good in life is worth discussing. No matter the activity, Cary Ann is always Straight Up.