A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Finding something to celebrate over the last few years hasn't always been easy. Disaster bingo went from being a silly online meme to an all too real worldwide phenomenon. Yet even when you think people are about to break, more often than not, that's when we see the best of us stand up.

It was that idea which prompted us to begin honoring an individual distiller with the Artisan Spirit of the Year Award. This is not my award to give. Instead the recipient is selected by a committee of distilling peers. During the first two years a committee of industry professionals recognized first, Nicole Austin, and then in the subsequent year, Chris Montana. Proving the point of the award both Nicole and Chris agreed to help be members of this year's committee along with five other team members.

I won't spoil it here, but be assured that who they chose to honor was both unsurprising, and a curveball at the same time.

Aside from honoring the distillers that make this industry special I also never want to skip out on a chance to thank each one of you, our readers. For almost a decade now (upcoming anniversary issue tease) we have dedicated ourselves to serving the distilling industry. And every day we are humbled by the kind words, honest feedback, and massive support we receive. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

With greatest appreciation,

Brian Christensen

(509) 944-5919 /// brian@artisanspiritmag.com /// PO Box 31494, Spokane, WA 99223