Forty Creek master blender Bill Ashburn to retire
Campari Group has announced that Bill Ashburn, master blender at Forty Creek Distillery, will retire at the end of December 2025.
Described as a central figure in the Canadian distillery’s legacy, Ashburn is set to retire after 38 years in the whisky industry.
Ashburn commented: “For me, the pleasure of making whisky is in trying to push the boundaries, trying to do things differently and trying to find new flavours and expressions. I’ve been fortunate enough to do that with the team at Forty Creek.
“Whisky will always be a passion of mine, but I’m excited to begin a new chapter focused on family and my work as a breeder and trainer of wire fox terriers.”
Ashburn has been a key figure in the distillery’s evolution, joining the Ontario-based Forty Creek in 1987, then known as Reider Distillery.
Throughout his career, Ashburn has sought to position Canadian whisky and Forty Creek as front-runners in the industry.
His contributions to the brand’s portfolio include Forty Creek’s inaugural whisky, Barrel Select, in 2000, limited edition blend Double Barrel, and Confederation Oak.
Ashburn’s final release as master blender will be unveiled later this year.
Doug Costantini, general manager at Campari Canada, said: “Bill’s legacy is woven into every bottle we produce. His dedication, innovation, and mentorship have left an indelible mark on our team and the Canadian whisky industry at large. We are deeply grateful for his contributions and look forward to carrying on the time-honoured traditions of craftsmanship, quality and innovation that he established within our walls.”
Campari Group has yet to announce a successor for Ashburn as the master blender of Forty Creek.
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