Ashley Barnes

06/16/2026

Such an amazing collaboration and project!

06/11/2026

Update for The Spirits Group

Life Update:

Building on the strong foundation we created together and 10 years of partnership, we have reached a new stage in our professional journey we’re excited to share.

Ashley will be expanding her independent consulting, blending, and product development work with the goal to create more flexibility for herself and family. As The Blending House continues to grow and expand, Monica will be focused full-time on leading the company as CEO and driving the next phase of growth for the bottling facility. This evolution allows us to each focus on our greatest strengths while continuing to collaborate on the projects and partnerships we’ve built together over the years. Ashley’s expertise remains an important part of The Blending House, where she will continue to provide blending and sensory services, and we remain partners in E.J. Curley & Co. (which we purchased last September!).

This next chapter gives us both the ability to pursue new ideas, support our families, and continue contributing to the spirits industry in meaningful ways. We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together and grateful for the clients, partners, and friends who have been part of the journey. We look forward to continuing to work together in new ways while building on everything we’ve created.

Here’s to growth, evolution, and the next chapter 🥃

05/03/2026

I was blessed to meet Jim many years ago at Four Roses. He was always quick to share his knowledge and thoughts on process and blends, from tasting to marketing, life and all things bourbon. So much I learned from him has influenced me and helped me in accomplishing what I have and those things yet to come. I often cherish the time we get together and don’t often ask to take a picture but I am so glad that I did. He is still out here doing big things and making great bourbon. Cannot wait to see what the future holds and I can only hope to one day have half the impact on someone that he has on me.

03/21/2026

Busy is a relative term. The last few weeks have been nothing short of pure chaos in the best way, well mostly. Nothing ever happens in when it’s convenient. The good ol Flu B hit our house with little man first the week of birthday celebrations starting, followed by big man and then me the following week. Luckily we had been preparing and trying to prevent catching it, so our sick wasn’t quite what little man was. This was the week leading up to a marathon of speaking engagements, dinners, tastings, and bottle signings. I called up post flu and got an immune booster. Flu drains you and I did not have enough time to truly recover. I cannot recommend them enough. Not only was amazing at what she does but always great to catch up with a good friend too. I would not have been able to take the boys to a Lego art exhibit and see their cousin before she moves to another state today had I not called OMH. They will now be part of my regular routine when schedules get busy and and are firing on all cylinders and I need to as well. No one ever hydrates enough but they have so much more than just hydration!

03/16/2026

Beam Conference 2026! Come find me and say hi!

03/13/2026

Excited to present at this years James B. Beam Distilling Co. Conference this year representing The Blending House. This is always such a great time with other industry professionals getting to catch up and share knowledge. Who else is going?

03/11/2026

Finalizing my pairing notes and I am beyond excited for this dinner! Chef TJ is a magician and does wonders with every dish he comes up with! Perfectly pairs with 2 amazing EJ Curley Single Barrels and EJ Curley & Co. Small Batch. You do not want to miss this evening of amazing food and delicious pours. You get to hang out with me too!

Celebrate Women’s History Month with EJ Curley & Co. Master Blender Ashley Barnes!

Enjoy a delectable four-item tasting menu paired with exquisite spirits, savor special food and drinks available for purchase, and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of E.J. Curley and the women shaping the distillery industry.

Take home exclusive keepsakes, shop signature merchandise, and join an exciting giveaway.

🎟️ Grab your tickets now: https://bit.ly/4ul77p8