Brown-Forman today announced the certification of Jackie Zykan as master taster of Old Forester Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky. The company also announced that Tom Vernon has been named Woodford Reserve global brand ambassador.

Zykan since 2015 has served as spokesperson for Old Forester in the role of master bourbon specialist. She brings “vast knowledge in the whisky category” from a decade behind the bar and a background in biology and chemistry, the company says.

“Jackie has made tremendous contributions since joining the brand in 2015 and we know she will bring continued success and growth to Old Forester for many years to come,” says Old Forester president Campbell Brown. 

Vernon first joined Brown-Forman in 2012 as part of the bartender education team before accepting the role of American whiskey ambassador for a variety of brands in the U.K. Tom assumes responsibility for accelerating the Woodford Reserve business and brand goals, the company says, through leading the development, training and activation of the brand advocacy program on a global level.

“Tom brings exceptional knowledge and talents in the bourbon portfolio to our team,” says Woodford Reserve global brand director Mark Bacon. “I am excited to see bartender engagement with Woodford Reserve expand with Tom’s guidance and leadership.”