Lodestar Whiskey, a women-founded and led spirit, introduced its first expression: a blend of Straight High Rye Bourbon and American Single Malt Whiskey.

Lodestar Whiskey is co-founded by cousins and entertainment industry veterans Anna Axster and Wendelin von Schroder, who had long wanted to create an inclusive and approachable whiskey. When their careers took a serendipitous turn and the entertainment industry stalled in the pandemic, they knew there was no better time to follow their passion and create Lodestar Whiskey.

From the outset, Axster and von Schroder sought to create community – it was what they loved most about their decade spent working together in music and film. Having acquired a taste for whiskey through their travels, Axster and von Schroder crafted their own high-quality and approachable spirit, which embodies the laid-back California lifestyle where Lodestar is based, and the universal truth that life’s special moments are always better when shared.

“Building community is one of our guiding principles,” Axster said in a news release. “As we began developing the brand, it was important to us that our whiskey is approachable, with a uniquely delicious flavor you can enjoy neat or in a cocktail. We wanted it to be inclusive and inviting to those who are new to the whiskey community while also satisfying the palates of those who enjoy whiskey regularly. Lodestar invites everyone to the party.”

“At Lodestar our golden rule is simple: bring joy to the journey and invite your friends,” von Schroder said. “We love kicking back with our favorite people, a good spirit in hand. It’s all about connecting and a sense of belonging. We hope that however people choose to gather, that their good times are made extra special with Lodestar.”

Lodestar Whiskey is a blend of Straight High Rye Bourbon and American Single Malt. By creating this unconventional blend, Lodestar Whiskey is versatile enough for a cocktail, while also delicious simply neat, or on the rocks.

The first-ever whiskey to be backed by Diageo’s Distill Ventures award-winning Pre-Accelerator program, Lodestar Whiskey is offered in 750ml packaging at 90 proof for a suggested retail price of $45 and is now available in select retail locations across California and e-commerce retail.

For more information, including cocktail recipe ideas and to find local retailers, visit www.lodestarwhiskey.com.