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Glenfiddich emerged onto the global stage over 100 years ago, earning both critical relevance and commercial success in the drinks business. As with any industry that continues to grow, more and more questions have arisen not just about what the product is, but who is behind it and what they stand for. Enter: Glenfiddich’s ‘Where Next? Women in Whisky’ campaign. Designed to celebrate independence and individuality in the industry, the age-old whisky brand is turning their attention to empowering women in the industry – and, in particular, the female bartenders of Dubai.
While the alcohol industry has been historically male-led, that imbalance is thankfully changing. Over the last few years, an increase in woman-helmed restaurants and bars across the UAE have helped close the field’s gender gap. Leading the charge in Dubai are five women: Nikolina Gutovic, Oleksandra Ponomarova, Vanessa El-Sayed, Laura Duka, and Iris Ruano, whose meticulously crafted cocktails reflect the unique characteristics of each Glenfiddich expression.
Ahead, the five female bartenders who are part of this rising tide, reflect on what it’s like to work in the spirits industry as a minority, the story behind their very-own handcrafted Glenfiddich cocktail, and what it means to embody Maverick spirit.
Iris Ruano – Bar Manager, Sushi Samba
“It’s important for women to know that there is a place for them in the whisky industry. Yes, it might be harder, but it’s worth it. Women are making a name for themselves in whisky, and it’s a beautiful thing to see.”
Laura Duca – Beverage Manager, Royal Atlantis
“The choice of beverage is a personal preference, and it should not be linked to gender. Everybody should feel comfortable ordering their preferred drink. The beauty of our job is the ability to provide that comfort.”
Nikolina Gutovic – Bar Manager, Hendricks Bar
“We are working hard to make sure that in the future, these preconceptions don’t exist. We’re not just bartenders; we’re ambassadors for the industry. And we have a responsibility to break down these stereotypes.”
Oleksandra Ponomarova – Beverage Manager, Hayatt Centric Jumeriah
“The whisky industry is no longer a male-dominated field. Women are not just consumers, but also creators, innovators, and industry leaders.”
Vanessa El Sayed – Senior Bartender, Mayabay
“For me, there are no gender-specific drinks. There are just good drinks and not so good drinks.”She’s keen to share her passion with others, encouraging them to “learn, taste, and develop their palate.”
Discover the different cocktails of Glenfiddich’s 12, 15, and 18-year-old editions across the UAE.
