Poured With Purpose: How Laura Bonner Turned a Family Legacy into The Muff Liquor Company’s Global Spirit

Muff, Donegal—A name that once raised eyebrows now raises glasses in 34 U.S. states and across the globe. But for Laura Bonner, founder of The Muff Liquor Company, this wasn't about shock value. It was about legacy. It was about laughter. And it was about crafting premium Irish spirits that are unapologetically authentic.

From Grandpa’s Still to the World Stage

Laura Bonner didn’t come from the liquor industry. She came from story. From the peat-scented tales of her grandfather, a potato farmer in the village of Muff, who distilled his own liquor.That origin inspired more than a recipe. It sparked a vision: to elevate Irish spirits while anchoring them in heritage.

“I was inspired by my grandfather’s spirit—both literally and figuratively,” Laura says. “While creating something new and daring, I wanted to respect that tradition.”

In 2017, Laura took a calculated risk in a male-dominated industry where heritage is often a family name and not a female founder's dream. She turned the cheeky Muff name into a global conversation starter, complete with award-winning potato-based vodka, gin, and peated Irish whiskey.

What Makes Muff Matter

The Muff Liquor Company stands apart not just for its craftsmanship but for its character. Bonner infused her brand with humor, high standards, and a deep Donegal soul. From its award-winning gin and vodka to a cult-followed social media presence, the brand walks the line between premium and playful.

“We’re serious about our craft — but we don’t take ourselves too seriously,” Laura laughs.“ That’s what makes us approachable, memorable, and loved.”

The company now boasts custom bottling, private label projects, and a new brand home in Muff itself — a nod to where it all began.

Building Through Chaos: Grit Distilled into Growth

Laura’s journey hasn’t been smooth — Brexit, Hong Kong protests, COVID-19 supply chain shocks.But each storm revealed her signature strength: grace under pressure.

“We were hit on all fronts — logistics, funding, awareness, expansion. But giving up was never an option,” she says.“Each challenge just made me double down on why I started.”

From raising capital to scaling U.S. distribution, she navigated complexity without compromising identity. It wasn’t just about weathering storms — it was about bottling resilience.

Advice for Entrepreneurs: Begin Before You’re Ready

Laura doesn’t sugarcoat the journey. She encourages others, especially women, to begin even when scared.“You underestimate your strength,” she says. “Fail is just a First Attempt In Learning. Don’t wait for perfect — just start.”

Her message is clear: courage isn’t the absence of fear. It’s pouring your soul into the bottle, anyway.

Beyond the Brand: A Legacy in Every Pour

Laura Bonner hasn’t just built a liquor company — she’s uncorked a movement grounded in humour, hustle, and heritage.

From Donegal to New York, she’s distilled stories into spirits, setbacks into strategy, and legacy into lifestyle.

In every bottle of Muff, there’s more than vodka or gin. There’s laughter. There’s courage. And there’s a reminder that bold beginnings can build global legacies — one pour at a time.

Website: www.themuffliquorcompany.com

Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-m-bonner-88021215/