Tracie Franklin is making waves in the spirits industry as the liquid curator of Edmond’s Honor, a premium bourbon whiskey that honors the significant yet overlooked legacy of Edmond Albius. Albius, a botanist from Bourbon Island, changed the vanilla production landscape by developing a hand-pollination technique that allowed the crop to flourish in Madagascar, making it the world’s leading vanilla producer.

Despite Albius’ colossal impact, his contributions remained largely unrecognized until Pronghorn decided to bring his story to light through bourbon. Franklin emphasizes that the aim is not only to celebrate Albius but also to highlight other untold stories within the spirits industry.

Franklin’s culinary journey began in her childhood, influenced by her diverse background as an Air Force brat with Southern heritage. After studying theater at Cal State Fullerton and performing internationally with Disney Live, she discovered her love for whiskey in New York, where she found it to be the only spirit compatible with her singing career.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Franklin pursued her passion for distillation through the Nearest & Jack Advancement Initiative, gaining valuable experience in production and learning from industry experts. When Pronghorn approached her to create a bourbon that celebrated Albius, it felt like fate.

Edmond’s Honor utilizes a dual-aging process, starting with a high-corn mash aged in American oak and finished in French oak cognac casks infused with Madagascar vanilla. At 43% ABV, the bourbon offers a complex yet approachable flavor profile, featuring aromas of orange blossom, brown sugar, and toasted oak, leading into notes of bourbon vanilla and baking spice, finishing smoothly with lingering vanilla.

Franklin also aims to redefine perceptions of flavored bourbon. By creating the title of "liquid curator," she highlights her vision of crafting bourbons that feel natural in daily life—ideal for both cocktails and sipping neat. Edmond’s Honor has already gained recognition with awards like “Best in Class” at the Las Vegas Global Spirits Awards.

The bourbon’s packaging reflects Albius’ legacy, featuring cloche-shaped bottles with botanical etchings that symbolize the importance of his work. The tagline “a story in every pour” reinforces the aim to connect drinkers to the nearly forgotten story of Albius, with QR codes linking to his complete narrative.

Franklin’s journey is a testament to the potential for inclusivity and historical recognition within the spirits industry. Edmond’s Honor is available across several U.S. states with plans for wider distribution, aiming to ensure that important stories, like that of Edmond Albius, continue to be told.

For more information about Edmond’s Honor, visit their website.