Family-owned and fiercely independent, Heaven Hill Distillery has been crafting some of America’s most iconic whiskeys for 90 years. Among them is Elijah Craig—often credited as the “Father of Bourbon”—a bold, complex, and award-winning spirit that embodies the best of Kentucky tradition.
Leading the charge for Elijah Craig across the Asia-Pacific region is Grant Shearon. With over 30 years of experience as a bartender and whiskey educator, Grant now represents Heaven Hill. He brings a storyteller’s flair, a deep respect for craft, and a clear mission: to make Elijah Craig your go-to bourbon, behind the bar and in every glass.
Tell us a bit about your background. What first sparked your interest in whiskey, and what led you to take on the role with Elijah Craig?
My whiskey journey began behind the bar in London in the early ’90s, where I was captivated by the depth and heritage of American whiskey. A trip to Tennessee in 1996 sealed the deal—what started as a casual curiosity quickly turned into a full-blown passion. Since then, I’ve spent years visiting distilleries across Tennessee and Kentucky, both personally and professionally, constantly deepening my appreciation for the craft.
After moving to Australia in 2011, I naturally gravitated toward brand advocacy, driven by a love for storytelling and sharing meaningful drinking experiences. I spent over 13 years with Brown-Forman, building brands and relationships across the region.
When the opportunity to represent Elijah Craig across APAC came up, it felt like destiny. This is a brand with real soul—steeped in tradition, yet alive with innovation. Representing Heaven Hill, a proud, third-generation family-owned company that has thrived for 90 years, is an honour. It’s more than whiskey; it’s a legacy I’m proud to carry forward.
Elijah Craig is often called the ‘Father of Bourbon.’ How do you bring that legacy to life across the APAC region?
With Elijah Craig and Heaven Hill, legacy isn’t a tagline—it’s the foundation. We’re talking real history, real family, and an unbroken tradition of doing things the right way. That authenticity resonates deeply, especially with hospitality professionals who care about what’s in the bottle and the story behind it.
I bring that legacy to life by spotlighting our grain-to-glass philosophy and the craftsmanship that drives everything we do. From sourcing to barreling to bottling, it’s all done with obsessive attention to quality. When I speak about Elijah Craig, it’s tradition without compromise—and that’s powerful.
And it’s not just talk. Heaven Hill was recently named Most Awarded U.S. Distillery at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. That recognition reinforces what we already know: we’re setting the standard.
What’s your go-to way of introducing someone to Elijah Craig—whether they’re new to bourbon or a seasoned aficionado?
For those new to bourbon, I always recommend Elijah Craig Small Batch—neat or with a splash of water. It’s approachable yet full of character: smooth, rich, and inviting, with just enough complexity to surprise even seasoned whiskey lovers. It’s a bourbon that speaks for itself and often sparks a deeper appreciation for the full range.
We’re especially excited to introduce a new Small Batch recipe into the Australian market—crafted with the same care, tradition, and quality our fans expect, now at a more accessible price point. It’s our way of opening the door wider, inviting more people into the Elijah Craig family without compromising on craftsmanship.
For those ready to explore further, Barrel Proof and Toasted Barrel are standout expressions. Bold, nuanced, and unapologetically flavourful, they showcase the full spectrum of what Elijah Craig offers—from layered spice to rich oak and subtle sweetness. And for those looking to branch out, our “Kentucky Style” Straight Rye reveals yet another side of the Elijah Craig story.
Bourbon should spark a conversation—and Elijah Craig is the perfect opener. Whether enjoyed neat, over ice, in a timeless Old Fashioned, or paired with your favourite mixer, there’s an expression for every palate and occasion. It’s not just a bourbon—it’s a journey, and everyone’s invited.
How does Elijah Craig fit into today’s cocktail culture? Any standout bars or drinks in APAC using it in unique ways?
Elijah Craig is built for today’s cocktail culture—versatile, expressive, and full of character. Its high-rye mash bill provides a bold, spicy backbone that holds up beautifully in classics like the Old Fashioned, Whiskey Sour, and Boulevardier, while also lending itself to modern riffs and regional flair.
Across APAC, I’ve seen some brilliant, boundary-pushing serves: smoked Old Fashioneds in Seoul, bourbon highballs with Japanese yuzu in Tokyo, and Elijah Craig woven into tea-based or tropical creations in Bangkok. The level of creativity and respect for the spirit in this region is world-class.
That spirit of innovation—rooted in tradition—is what fuels the launch of our new Small Batch in Australia. Crafted with the same commitment to quality and flavour, it embodies our mission to evolve without compromise and offer exceptional whiskey at an accessible price point.
It’s a reflection of 90 years of Heaven Hill excellence. As we prepare to celebrate our 90th anniversary this December, we’re reminded that longevity in this industry isn’t luck—it’s legacy. We’re one of the few remaining historic, family-owned distilleries still thriving today. Always honouring the past, but boldly embracing the future.
Looking ahead, what can the trade expect from Elijah Craig in APAC? Any big plans or releases we should be watching for?
Momentum is building quickly for Elijah Craig in APAC. We’re investing in the region with bartender education, immersive tastings, and strategic partnerships that elevate how people experience our whiskey.
There are some exciting limited releases and collaborations coming later this year—some of which I can’t reveal just yet, but they’ll be worth the wait. Expect bold flavours, compelling stories, and standout whiskey moments.
Our mission is simple: to make Elijah Craig not just known, but loved across APAC. Whether you’re behind the bar or at it, we’re here to educate, inspire, and celebrate bourbon with the people shaping its future.
Elijah Craig is available via Amber Beverage.
Can’t wait to Y’ALL soon—cheers,
Grant.
Contact: IG @grantshearon // [email protected]
