Meet the American Bringing Bourbon to France

Ashley Donahey Two Worlds Whiskey

When I was in Washington DC in August 2017 to speak about my book to a group of women in the food and wine industry, I met a woman whom I sensed from the moment we spoke that she was serious about making a change. And not some slight modification to her lifestyle or career but a total overhaul. I also knew, it was likely I’d see her again but the next time would be in France.

That’s exactly what happened: Ashley Donahey was still employed by the State Department when she attended my event and spoke to me about considering a big move to pursue an MBA with a specialty in wine & spirits. I was intrigued and blown away by her family ties to France. Later that year, I met with her in Paris as she settled in to reprise her role as a student and begin a new adventure.

I spoke to Ashley about that process, her fascinating and historical connection to France, her new brand Two Worlds Whiskey, and most importantly, what sparked her love of bourbon whiskey.

To what do you attribute the pull France has had on your life?

I grew up in a very…

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