The Ben Buckler Whisky Company has appointed Kristy Bloomfield as CEO and co-founder, bringing senior leadership experience from Lyre’s Spirit Co and Sullivans Cove Distillery as the business plans for a major expansion.
The Ben Buckler originated from media personality Larry Emdur’s desire to create his own whisky for his 60th birthday, a bucket list goal. The whisky is named after Sydney suburb Ben Buckler, where Emdur grew up, and combines ex tawny port and bourbon barrels to create a single malt whisky that is described as having an approachable sweetness, smooth depth and savoury character.
Source: The Ben Buckler
“I originally just wanted to make 60 bottles of whisky for 60 mates for my 60th birthday,” said Emdur.
“It was never supposed to become a business – it was genuinely just a fun thing to do with friends. Then suddenly people started asking where they could buy it, venues wanted to stock it and before we knew it, this little side project had completely taken on a life of its own.”
Initially launched to the public in mid-2024 and produced in collaboration with Corowa Distilling Company, The Ben Buckler has since established itself within the premium whisky category, securing Gold medals across global spirits competitions.
“The momentum behind The Ben Buckler has honestly been incredible. People have connected with it because it feels authentic and ‘seriously’ unpretentious. We’re very proud that something which started so organically has now become a genuinely respected Australian whisky brand,” said Emdur.
“Kristy is an exceptional operator with a phenomenal track record building global brands. She understands premium consumer businesses at the very highest level and knows how to scale brands internationally while still protecting what makes them special. Bringing her into the business is a huge moment for us.”
Bloomfield will lead the expansion, having previous experience growing Australian brands to tackle international markets as global chief marketing officer at non-alcoholic spirits brand Lyre’s Spirit Co, and most recently as chief marketing officer at Sullivans Cove Distillery.
The brand has already secured national distribution through Paramount Liquor and ALM Connect, alongside premium placements across leading venues in Sydney and Melbourne and retail ranging including Heinemann Duty Free, where initial allocations sold out rapidly.
The next phase of growth is also on the horizon, with plans to conduct a capital raise, broaden domestic distribution, strengthen export opportunities, and establish a broader presence across premium hospitality and retail channels.
Bloomfield said The Ben Buckler’s appeal lies in the rare authenticity behind the brand.
“What Larry has created is incredibly genuine. The Ben Buckler doesn’t feel manufactured or overly corporate,” she said.
“It began with a brilliant narrative and a real passion for creating something to build connection and sociability between mates. That authenticity is incredibly powerful, particularly in today’s premium spirits landscape, the Ben Buckler story is one that resonates.
“The brand already has exceptional foundations – from the product itself to the consumer engagement around it. The opportunity now is to scale that thoughtfully and strategically both within Australia and internationally. The Ben Buckler will recruit the next generation into the whisky category, becoming one of Australia’s most aspirational brands.”
