New historical fiction novel chronicles the untold story of a trailblazing woman who defied Prohibition, shattered expectations and changed whiskey forever
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (April 29, 2025) – Mary Dowling Whiskey Company, an award-winning bourbon brand on a mission to restore the lost legacy of Mary Dowling, today announced the release of its new historical fiction novel, “Mother of Bourbon: The Greatest American Whiskey Story Never Told” (Post Hill Press). A collaborative project between co-authors Eric Goodman and Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame whiskey maker Kaveh Zamanian, “Mother of Bourbon” takes readers through the outrageously inspiring life of bourbon’s most successful and influential woman distiller in the male-dominated world of pre-Prohibition bourbon: Mary Dowling. "Mother of Bourbon" is now available for purchase on Amazon and Barnes & Noble just in time for Mother’s Day.
“Mary Dowling was a true original — a woman who challenged convention and shaped the course of American whiskey,” said Kaveh Zamanian, co-author and founder of Mary Dowling Whiskey Company. “Bringing her to life on the page has been one of the most meaningful projects of my career. With ‘Mother of Bourbon,’ we’re not just honoring her, we’re giving her the place in history she always deserved and I’m excited for readers to be part of that journey.”
“Mother of Bourbon” is the never-before-told story of a pioneering and visionary woman who achieved success in a system designed to suppress her, and against a government that strived to repress her. Mary’s courage and determination are the hallmarks that live on today in Mary Dowling Whiskey Company, as extraordinary and distinctive as the woman whose name it bears. Through "Mother of Bourbon" and every bottle, Mary Dowling Whiskey Company carries forward her legacy — shining a light on her remarkable story and crafting bold, game-changing spirits in her honor.
What others are saying about “Mother of Bourbon:”
“Kaveh Zamanian and Eric Goodman took the scraps of her legacy and wove them into an historical fiction based on her life, giving a voice to one of Kentucky bourbon’s nearly forgotten bourbon barons.”
—Maggie Kimberl, content editor, American Whiskey Magazine
“’Mother of Bourbon’ not only gives her the spotlight she deserves, but it does so with intelligence and grace. Whether you love whiskey or just want a good yarn about a life well lived, this book is for you.”
—Clay Risen, author, “American Whiskey, Bourbon & Rye: A Guide to the Nation’s Favorite Spirit and Bourbon: The Story of Kentucky Whiskey”
“Unsung bourbon distiller—and force of nature—Mary Dowling overcame family tragedy, discrimination and Prohibition, to achieve extraordinary success. Her story comes to life in this page-turning novel.”
—Susan Reigler, author, “Kentucky Bourbon: The Essential Guide to the American Spirit”
“From love to business, this bourbon soap opera is a must read, will keep you entertained, and make you question everything you thought you knew about America’s Spirit.”
—Fred Minnick, author, “Bourbon: The Rise, Fall and Rebirth of an American Whiskey;” “Bourbon Curious;” and “Whiskey Women: The Untold Story of How Women Saved Bourbon, Scotch and Irish Whiskey”
“Mother of Bourbon: The Greatest Whiskey Story Never Told” (Post Hill Press) by Eric Goodman and Kaveh Zamanian is available for purchase now on Amazon and Barnes & Noble ($30) and locally in Louisville at Carmichael’s Bookstore. For more information, visit marydowling.com.
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About Mary Dowling Whiskey Company Mary Dowling Whiskey Company is an award-winning bourbon brand on a mission to restore the legacy of Mary Dowling to its rightful place in American hearts, minds and glasses. Celebrating her pioneering spirit, the brand offers three exquisite whiskeys bearing her name:
- Winter Wheat ($54.99) offers a soft, elegant finish for those seeking a smooth and mellow experience. Gold winner at the World Whiskies Awards 2025.
- Tequila Barrel ($75) introduces an adventurous twist, merging the boldness of whiskey with the vibrant notes of tequila. Silver at SF World Spirits Competition 2024 and Platinum at ASCOT Awards 2024.
- Double Oak Barrel ($130) delivers a rich, layered complexity through an innovative aging process. Gold at SF World Spirits Competition 2024 and Gold at ASCOT Awards 2024.
Mary Dowling Whiskey Company was founded in 2023 by Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame Whiskey Maker, Kaveh Zamanian. To learn more, visit marydowling.com.
About Kaveh Zamanian
Kaveh Zamanian is a clinical psychologist and psychoanalyst turned master whiskey maker. He fell in love with a Kentucky girl, moved to Louisville and decided to take a leap with her down the rabbit hole of bourbon, following his long-standing passion for fine spirits. He is the founder of Rabbit Hole and Mary Dowling Whiskey Companies and serves as the Chief Whiskey Officer for Pernod-Ricard, the second largest spirit company in the world. In recognition of his achievements, in 2022, he was inducted to the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame, cementing his place among industry pioneers and visionaries. He resides with his wife (Kentucky girl) and children in Louisville, Kentucky.
About Eric Goodman
Eric Goodman is the author of seven previous novels, including “Curveball” (2024). Educated at Yale and Stanford, Goodman lives in Sonoma County and Mecklenburg, New York. For many years, he directed the creative writing program at Miami University (Ohio). His previous novels have been named Indies Finalist for General Fiction and Silver Book of the Year for Gay/Lesbian Fiction. He likes his whiskey neat.
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