The bourbon industry has this fascinating thing where “The Big Six” can hold such a monopoly of the industry - regardless of price category, and regardless of consumer profile. Is there room for other players to continue to penetrate the market, and how do they break the standard “value” scale that is so often set by Big Bourbon?  We hit on: What draws a consumer to Big Bourbon over a similar cost smaller brand? How does the consumer deal with a value scale that is constantly changing? Do the flavor profiles of smaller brands hit the flavor profiles of the larger brands? and much more. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at podcast@pursuitspirits.com.

Here we are again with another Bourbon Community Roundtable. This one started off pretty tame, but towards the end we start digging deep so here is what's on the menu for this one. A few weeks ago, it was announced that Penelope would be acquired by MGP, but notably its subsidiary Luxco for $215M. We all know this is a great move for the brand, but I posed a question to the group that intrigued me and that is if we will see more MGP brands be purchased as a result? I also follow it up with other powerhouse contract distillers and if we can see them copycat this acquisition in hopes of taking a brand to a new level. That quickly transitioned into the idea that brands can come out of nowhere. One of the most famous, or infamous, brands of all time was Ezra Brooks. A brand that was created out of thin air. Since consumers know more now than they ever have before, could we see another Ezra Brooks emerge in our lifetime? That tends to go into a few different directions but I won't ruin the fun for you. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about if you could only drink one bourbon. Will Penelope's acquisition lead to MGP buying more brands to build their portfolio? Consumers are as smart as ever, so could a phantom brand like Ezra Brooks work today? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Still Austin The Artist Straight Rye Whiskey. This 2 year old rye is 99.6 proof and $50 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for May 26th 2023. Airbnb predicts a busy summer for Louisville as its top trending U.S. destination, Virginia ABC lottery chose multiple BTAC winners and fans aren't happy, and Rabbit Hole’s launches TennielShow Notes: Update on Forbidden that it actually uses Castle & Key barrels RTD cocktails see more stratospheric growth Amazon is launching a way for drinkers to buy alcohol with a simple swipe of their hand Airbnb summer picks Louisville as its top trending U.S. destination Virginia ABC lottery chose multiple BTAC winners and fans aren't happy Ireland will become the world's first country to label alcoholic drinks with comprehensive health warnings Brother’s Bond introduces two new expressions, Brother’s Bond American Blended Rye and Brother’s Bond Cask Strength Steph Curry announced the launch of Gentleman’s Cut Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Rabbit Hole’s launches Tenniel @forbiddenbourbon @airbnb @abc_va @brothersbondbourbon @rabbithole Support this podcast on Patreon

How many distillery tours have you been on? 2? 5? Maybe 20? Well, you can't even touch our guest today. Drew Hannush is the author of multiple books including Experiencing Kentucky Bourbon, Experiencing Irish Whiskey, and new one coming soon on Tennessee. He has his own whiskey podcast called Whiskey Lore but, he has also visited over 250 distilleries across the world. That's a ton of miles traveled. We dig into his passion and why he continues to visit distilleries and even re-visit some. Then we discuss how he doesn't get fatigued because sometimes it's a lot of the same process and story told over and over again. Then we dive into some hidden gems across Kentucky and even talk about the boom of craft distilleries and if he plans on hitting every single one. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about barrel shortage. What got you into the deep-dive of whiskey? How do you not get fatigued listening to a similar story every time? Did you find out where the name bourbon came from? What stands out when visiting Kentucky distilleries? How are some distilleries rewarding drivers versus those who are traveling to try a bunch of whiskey? How are you approaching all the different whiskeys with an open mind? How many brands outside of American Whiskey are sourcing whiskey? What keeps you interested to keep going back and revisiting distilleries? What are the hidden gems that people don't know about? Now that all these craft distilleries are popping up across the US is the goal to hit them all? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Hirsch The Cask Strength Bourbon Finished in Cognac Casks. This 7 year old finished bourbon is 127 proof and $200 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for May 19th 2023. Justins' House of Bourbon has had all charges in Washington DC dropped, Log Still Distillery launches their own single barrel program, and Jim beam enters the American Single Malt Category with Clermont Steep.Show Notes: The Michelin Guide US has named Basil Hayden its official American whiskey partner Justins' House of Bourbon has had all charges in Washington DC dropped Log Still Distillery launches their own single barrel program Frankfort, KY offers bourbon incentives for remote workers to relocate Ezra Brooks 99 Straight Rye Whiskey and a newly reformulated Ezra Brooks Bourbon Cream The Jack Daniel Distillery introduces Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Barrel Proof Rye Whiskey Kentucky Senator Bourbon is set to unveil its fourth release Marianne Eaves introduces Forbidden Jim beam enters the American Single Malt Category with Clermont Steep @basilhayden @houseofbourbonlou @houseofbourbonlex @logstilldistillery @ezrabrooksbourbon @jackdaniels_us @mariannebmd @jimbeamofficial Support this podcast on Patreon

The dream of owning a bourbon bar. That sounds pretty awesome doesn't it? In this episode, we get to hear Watch Hill Proper's journey. Joshua Howes and Tommy Craggs join the show to talk about the initial concept of the bar and the challenges they faced not coming from a restaurant background. We dive into the finer details of the business such as staff training, retainment, and revenue between food and beverage. But for us whiskey geeks, we talk about building a collection of unicorns that are proudly on display but also available by the pour. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about why Maker's Mark doesn't use age statements. How did you get into bourbon and what's your bourbon journey? Did you know what the concept of the bar was going to be before you started? What challenges did you face since you don't come from a restaurant background? How did you come to the design and the feel of the space? What percentage of your revenue is food vs beverage? How did you procure the unicorns in the collection? How do you train the staff on how to be knowledgable on all the whiskeys? What was your business plan and how many drinks you have to sell to keep the doors open? Can you talk about how membership communication backfired? How did the name Watch Hill Proper come to be? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Chicken Cock Double Oak Whiskey. This 8 year old whiskey is 92 proof and $100 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for May 12th 2023. MGP and Luxco will acquire Penelope Bourbon for up to $215M, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof moves to variable age stated releases, and Mark Brown will step down as CEO and president of Sazerac in July.Show Notes: MGP and Luxco will acquire Penelope Bourbon for up to $215M B.R. Distilling Company now offers tours at the distillery Elijah Craig Barrel Proof moves to variable age stated releases Wenzel Whiskey has acquired assets and an inventory of aged spirits from Ghost Coast Distillery Mark Brown will step down as CEO and president of Sazerac in July Scientists Have Discovered the Perfect Amount of Water to Add to Your Whiskey HIRSCH Selected Whiskeys announces The Single Barrel Double Oak Chattanooga Whiskey announced Experimental Batch 031: Red, White and Blue Grist @penelopebourbon @bluenotebourbon @elijahcraig @wenzel_whiskeyhirschwhiskey @chattwhiskey Support this podcast on Patreon

Where did it all go wrong? Or maybe it's not even wrong, but secondary cask finished bourbons seems to all the rage. What used to be a means of innovation has turned into a chase to find the most exotic woods and multi-cask finishes to keep fans asking, what's next? In this episode, Ryan, Fred, and myself dive into the history of cask finishes and question whether double oaked bourbons are still considered pure bourbon. We wonder why don't consumers ask more questions to hold companies responsible about the finishing processes and potential quality drops. Lastly, I drop a bomb about SKU sprawl and what will happen when larger companies create more finishes that will squeeze out shelf space for smaller brands. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about buying dusty bourbon What's your fascination with Liquid Death? Where did cask finishes really begin? How can you trust what a brand does with their whiskey behind the scenes? Why don't consumers question the process? Are double oaked bourbons still considered pure bourbon? Is it the producer or the consumer problem because there is a chase for the next thing? Is barrel finishing the only way to differentiate yourself from other brands? Is the quality going to drop soon because of the distillate being used? What happens when companies with large stocks create more SKUs and take over more shelf space? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Kentucky Owl Bourbon Batch 12. This non-age stated bourbon is 115.8 proof and $400 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for May 5th 2023. New Riff Distilling has announced the dual release of two new heirloom grain bourbons, Buffalo Trace Distillery is thrilled to release Buffalo Trace Experimental Peated Bourbon, and Blue Run Spirits announces its first ever Single Barrel Rye WhiskeyShow Notes: Bardstown Bourbon Co. kicks off their summer patio concert series Diesel Cigars and Rabbit Hole are marking their third collaboration New Riff Distilling has announced the dual release of two new heirloom grain bourbons American Mash & Grain releases Borrowed Page Volume 2 Chattanooga Whiskey releases Founder’s 11th Anniversary Blend Buffalo Trace Distillery releases Buffalo Trace Experimental Peated Bourbon Blue Run Spirits announces its first ever Single Barrel Rye Whiskey @bardstownbourbonco @rabbithole @dieselcigars @newriff @mashngrain @chattwhiskey @buffalotracedistillery @bluerunspirits @thatoneduderyan Support this podcast on Patreon

We've got two juicy topics to tackle so here's what we've got. Last year we saw the release of Russell's Reserve Single Rickhouse limited edition offering. That sparked a Vine Pair article that asked if single rickhouse bottlings will be the next big thing? I wanted to challenge that a bit and figure out if we really think there are varied flavor profiles based on rickhouses or are they cherry-picking barrels to make another marketing angle. In the second half of the show we discuss the current state of single barrels. They are flooded on shelves across the nation and they aren't selling like they used to. How will this get fixed or is this a side-effect of the COVID buying frenzy? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about entry proof. Are single rickhouse bottlings going to be the next big thing? Do different rickhouses provide different flavor profiles or is this a marketing angle? How will we fix the abundance of single barrel offerings on the shelves across the nation? Is this a side effect of the covid buying frenzy? @breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Bernheim Barrel Proof Original Wheat Whiskey Batch A223. This 7-9 year old wheat whiskey is 118.8 proof and $65 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for April 28th 2023. Heaven’s Door Spirits plans to open a new distillery in Pleasureville, Kentucky, Buzzard’s Roost Sipping Whiskeys announces the opening of the Buzzard’s Roost Whiskey Row Experience in downtown Louisville, and Barrell Craft Spirits will add Rye to its already expansive Private Release offerings.Show Notes: Heaven’s Door Spirits plans to open a new distillery in Pleasureville, Kentucky DISCUS backs 2 bills in California and Maine The Mexican navy has seized almost 10 tons of liquid methamphetamine hidden in 11,520 bottles of tequila O.H. Ingram River Aged has doubled its operations and moved to a larger facility in Columbus, KY. Buzzard’s Roost Sipping Whiskeys announces the opening of the Buzzard’s Roost Whiskey Row Experience in downtown Louisville Buffalo Trace releases in its Old Charter Oak collection, Spanish Oak Bourbon Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery has announced the return of the Nelson Brothers Honey Cask Finish Southern Distilling Company launches Hunting Creek Straight Rye Jack Daniel’s commemorates its partnership with McLaren Racing Blood Oath Pact 9 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in Oloroso Sherry casks Barrell Craft Spirits® (BCS) will add Rye to its already expansive Private Release offerings @heavensdoorwhiskey @distilledspiritscouncil @ingramwhiskey @buzzardsroostwhiskey @buffalotracedistillery @nelsonsgreenbrier @southerndistilling @jackdaniels_us @luxrowdistillers @barrellbourbon Support this podcast on Patreon

How much influence does the barrel have on the whiskey you drink? If you talk to a lot of people in the industry you will get a rough estimate of 70% or more flavor gets extracted from the barrel. We've had a few coopers on the show to talk about process, and even today's guest was back on Episode 346. We were so amazed at some of his research we wanted him to come back on the show to talk about more mind blowing stave science. Andrew Wiehebrink is the Director of Spirits Research and Innovation for Independent Stave Company. That means he leads up all the cool advancements on where barrel trends are heading. We talk about the current barrel shortage and if toasted products are the reason to blame, where the future of oak alternatives are heading, and why there is a trend of distilleries moving tog Char 1 vs Char 4. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about warming up your palate. Can you give us a refreshed on how you got into whiskey? How is ISC looking at the current barrel shortage crisis? Is wood growth a problem in getting new barrels? Is there a labor shortage in cooperages? How much has toasted barrels lead to a barrel shortage? Can you explain the seasoning process once again and how that effects the overall flavor? Are you all experimenting with oak alternatives? Why does French Oak have more peaks and valleys for the maturation process? Maker's really pioneered the custom staves but is anyone else doing anything to that level? Why is there a trend of moving towards Char 1 vs Char 4? Does your research show an optimal time of the year to pull barrels? Is there a trend of using smoked barrels? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review New Riff Malted Rye Whiskey. This 6 year old rye whiskey is 100 proof and $60 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for April 21st 2023. The city of Bardstown fights back and stops new distillery construction, Old Elk Distillery announced its 2023 Single Barrel Program, and Booker’s Bourbon is releasing the first batch of the 2023 Collection.Show Notes: The city of Bardstown fights back and stops new distillery construction The Woodford Reserve $1,000 Mint Julep Woodford Reserve is creating a sensorial experience at John F. Kennedy’s Internal Airport Global bourbon market value cap by Allied Market Research Sotheby's has sold a five-bottle set of American whiskeys from closed distilleries for US$187,245 Old Elk Distillery announced its 2023 Single Barrel Program Jefferson's Bourbon launches the Marian McLain and Entrepreneurial Fund with Shark Tank's Barbara Corcoran Bardstown Bourbon Company will release its latest in the Collaborative Series with Foursquare Barbados Rum barrels Milam & Greene Whiskey is proud to unveil Bobcat Single Barrel Bourbon American rapper Nelly has entered the spirits industry with the launch of a moonshine brand, called MoShine RD1 Spirits announces two new line extensions Dixon Dedman releases The Innkeeper’s Blend 15 STARS releases Triple Cask and First West Rye Sagamore Spirit's national release of its Orange Crush Craft Canned Cocktail Booker’s Bourbon first batch of the 2023 called Charlie’s Batch Furman University launched a straight bourbon whiskey, named FU All The Time @woodfordreserve @alliedmarketresearch @sothebys @oldelkbourbon @jeffersonsbourbon @barbaracorcoran @bardstownbourbonco @milamandgreenewhiskey @nelly @rd1spirits @dixon_dedman @15starsbourbon @sagamorespirit @furmanuniversity Support this podcast on Patreon

If you google for anything BBQ related on YouTube, I can guarantee you will see a video pop-up of our guest. Matt Pittman is the founder of Meat Church, he's one of the most well-known BBQ personalities in the industry. But Matt wasn't always talking about brisket and ribs with his infamous Holy Cow rub, that was his passion project. In this episode we talk about his career and what it took to make a pivot from a comfy position in IT to going all-in with Meat Church. But this isn't all about BBQ. Matt is turning his sights into another discovered passion, bourbon. He discusses how is eyes were opened during a bottle share and with the help of the Dallas Bourbon Club, he is starting to build out his very own collection. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about tasting mats. Where did you grow up and how did you get into tech? Did you have any pit master idols or people you looked up to? Were you accepted by people in the industry or did they just look at you as a YouTuber? Why did you choose to not open a restaurant? Did the product or the media and education come first? What was the tipping point when you could leave your career to chase after BBQ? What tactics did you use to grow the business when you went full time? How did the idea of cooking classes start? Where did the name Meat Church come from? At what point did bourbon start making an influence on you? Bourbon producers have generations of distillers, does that exist in BBQ as well? Who bestowed upon you the title of pit master? @meatchurch Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Heaven Hill Heritage Collection 20-Year-Old Corn Whiskey. This 20 year old corn whiskey is 115 proof and $290 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for April 14th 2023. Campari Group plans to add a second distillery at its Wild Turkey campus in Lawrenceburg, Sotheby's unveiled The Rare American Whiskey Selection , and Father Jim Sichko marks the 10-year anniversary of the election of Pope Francis with a rare release of 10-year Willet.Show Notes: Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has begun an antitrust investigation into Southern Glazer's Wine and Spirits Heaven’s Door plans to open The Last Refuge, a whiskey bar and live music venue, in downtown Louisville Campari Group plans to add a second distillery at its Wild Turkey campus in Lawrenceburg Castle & Key 502 is officially opening within the Fall City Market in the Omni Hotel Edrington has increased its shareholding in the Wyoming Whiskey brand Bourbon with HeART announces Bowtied Together Give 270 has announced the kickoff of its latest series of charity whiskey raffles Sotheby's unveiled The Rare American Whiskey Selection The two Virginia men won't face any active jail time Jennifer Lopez has launched her own line of ready-to-drink bottled cocktails a new app called The Kentucky Hug The Dancing Goat Distillery releases a 21-year-old light whiskey Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company releases the Ten x Ten Small Batch Rye Whiskey Knob Creek Rye brings back a 7 year age statement Wilderness Trail releases a 7 year rye Maker’s Mark Keeneland commemorative bottles Proof & Wood Ventures launched The Globe Father Jim Sichko marks the 10-year anniversary of the election of Pope Francis with a rare release of 10-year Willet @heavensdoorwhiskey @wildturkey @castleandkey @wyomingwhiskey @bourbonwithheart @give270 @sothebys @jlo @dancinggoatdistillery @lawrenceburgbourbon @knobcreek @wildernesstraildistillery @makersmark @proofandwood @jimsichko Support this podcast on Patreon

Master Taster. It just sounds like a really cool job. But what does it take to become a Master Taster? Old Forester is a brand that has a history of hiring people for this role and their newest is Melissa Rift. Ryan and I have had the pleasure of getting to know Melissa over the years but it was in different roles she held in the industry. Yet, thanks to notifications on indeed.com, she was able to apply and land this role. We talk about her history and career in the industry and then we dive into the position and what it takes to be a Master Taster. We also dive into consumer demand and where she sees trends changing over time. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about water contamination. What is your background and how you got into the industry? How do you stay invigorated when you have to give the same tour over and over again? Do you feel tours are an entry point into the industry? Tell the story of the stolen catalytic converters How involved were you with quality control and single barrels at Bulliet? How did you find out about the Master Taster position after Jackie left? What were the pre-requisites for this position? Did you feel confident going into this role or was it scary when it became real? When the press release was announced it highlighted your personal life being openly gay. Was this your idea? Did you taste through all product offerings so you can pick them all out? Do you think consumers will change their opinion on proof? Do you have some ideas on how you will change things to meet consumer demand? How does your wife feel about the amount of travel that will now be involved? @oldfomastertaster Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Old Forester King Ranch Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 105 proof and $70 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

Having a variety of SKUs or choices in a brand’s portfolio is a great thing, right? You can reach a multitude of customers with multiple entry points or stepping blocks for them to learn more about you. However, the biggest challenges folks don’t really see come after the product development: continuously communicating with distributors why a new SKU should be carried, shelf space competition, ongoing marketing material about the new SKUs. The behind-the-scenes work can really add up, and is it worth it? Today, we dive in to the topic of expanding the portfolio.  We hit on: Is there a life cycle or cadence to how long to carry a set of SKUs before adding new ones?  Does having too many SKUs dilute the attention for your core products?  Are there certain SKU expansions that are necessary to reach more mass consumption?  How has the reception been in markets since the release of Oak Collection? Do distributors give you more attention because you have more products in your lineup?  and much more. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at podcast@pursuitspirits.com. Subscribe to Behind the Pursuit on: Apple Podcasts Spotify iHeartRadio Amazon Music Google Podcasts

It's everyone's monthly favorite, the bourbon community roundtable where we invite some of the brightest minds in bourbon media to come on and go deep on some topics. And up first is the story that keeps on giving. Earlier this year Sazerac came out of the gate putting a $38.6M lawsuit in front of Republic National Distributing Company (known as RNDC). Now here we are a few weeks later and we get RNDC's response where they are countersuing for Sazerac's attempts at undermining the three-tier system and claiming over $10M in damages. In the second half of the show we dig into the increase of counterfeit bourbon bottles on the market and these bottles aren't even super rare. We're talking Four Roses Single Barrels and Weller Full Proof. Should distilleries step up and have more tamper-proof seals or is this a buyer beware type of situation? We've said it a million times on the show before, if you want to help combat the spread of these fakes, throw away your bottles by putting sharpie on the label or even go as far as breaking them. Don't be that person selling empties on eBay. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about single barrel programs. What impact will the Sazerac/RNDC lawsuit have on the bourbon industry? When will we see more anti-counterfeit seals? Who is responsible for preventing counterfeits? @breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength Bourbon #2. This 10 year old bourbon is 144.5 proof and $100 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 31st 2023. Elijah Craig is the Official Bourbon and whiskey supplier of the PGA, Chicken Cock Whiskey has released a Double Oak Kentucky Whiskey, Rock Town introduces the Column Still Collection.Show Notes: Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) urges Congress to legalize cannabis at the federal level Regenified Certification to Star Hill Farm New York wine and spirits shop owners traveled to Albany, New York to challenge Amazon Elijah Craig is the “Official Bourbon” and whiskey supplier of the PGA Traverse City Whiskey Co unveiled The Finishing Series Coors Whiskey Co. has unveiled Barmen 1873 Bourbon Rock Town introduces the Column Still Collection Chicken Cock Whiskey has released a Double Oak Kentucky Whiskey @starhillprovisions @makersmark @elijahcraig @tcwhiskey @coorswhiskeyco @rocktowndistill @chickencockwhiskey Support this podcast on Patreon

If you've listened to our show long enough you would know that it's Kenny versus Fred and Ryan when it comes to coffee. Kenny isn't not much of a coffee drinker but those guys can't live without. But I'm sure there are lots of other coffee and bourbon drinkers out there and you see things like "barrel aged" coffee and immediately gravitate towards it. I mean, how could you not? We should be barrel-aging everything! But there are more correlations between coffee and bourbon that I never knew of so that's why we invited Brian Beyke on the show. He's the Director of Coffee for Quills in Louisville and has been all-in on coffee and bourbon for a long time. In this episode, we scratch an itch to ask all the questions about coffee that we've always wanted to know such as the difference in beans from small versus large scale producers, the "rare" coffee scene, buzzwords to watch out for, and Brian gives us the low-down if barrel-aging is a gimmick. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about palette fatigue. How did you find your path into coffee? Do you need to spit coffee while tasting? What notes in coffee are you looking for when tasting? Is there a three-tier system with coffee? What's the difference in the beans that you get versus the big name brands? Is there a "rare" coffee scene? What are the buzzwords in coffee that you need to watch out for? If bourbon is synonymous to Kentucky then what is the coffee equivalent? What's the professional consensus of Keurig? Does roasting line up with toasting or charring of barrels? What's best method for barrel-aging coffee? How do you adapt the coffee for a cold brew or nitro? Is there a secondary market for rare coffee? Is the coffee flavor wheel different than the bourbon flavor wheel? @abandoncoffee @abandonbourbon Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Old Elk 2022 Infinity Blend Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 114.1 proof and $150 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 17th 2023. RNDC fights back against the Sazerac lawsuit. Blue Run Spirits today revealed the first look at its planned whiskey distillery and headquarters in Georgetown, Kentucky.Pinhook Bourbon has debuted their Vertical Series Rye 7-Year.Show Notes: RNDC fights back against the Sazerac lawsuit Fermenting Change has launched outlining the various ways Three-Tier System harms the alcohol industry direct-to-consumer shipping become a reality in Illinois at ShipMySpirits.org Coors Light introduced Coors-icles Pernod Ricard has buys majority stake in Skrewball Blue Run Spirits today revealed the first look at its planned whiskey distillery New Riff Distilling will begin a US$3 million renovation of its public areas Lux Row Distillers announce Rebel 100 Straight Rye Whiskey Wolves announces its first-ever American Single Malt whiskeys Ragged Branch Distillery announces a special bourbon celebrating the fiftieth anniversary of Secretariat's Triple Crown win Pinhook Bourbon has debuted their Vertical Series Rye 7-Year @rndcusa @shipmyspirits @buffalotracedistillery @coorslight @skrewballwhiskey @pernodricard @bluerunspirits @newriff @luxrowdistillers @raggedbranch @pinhook_bourbon Support this podcast on Patreon

Bourbon's rise in popularity has been a monumental shift in consumer behavior, but the reality is that it could all come crashing down really quick. Ryan, Fred, and Kenny spend some time on this episode and think about what are those threats to bourbon? We all have ideas on why it became so popular but what are those outside influences that we have no control over? Fred gives a brief history on the bourbon glut era and that starts spurring other ideas that could hurt bourbon's popularity such as overzealous health advocates, new spirits on the rise, government taxes, or the next generation of consumers? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about heritage brands. Is there an issue with grains, raw material, and barrel shortages? How has the lack of staffing in the service industry impacted bourbon? What caused the first glut and what can we do to prevent that? Did tariffs make an impact on bourbon or was it not really hindered? Are health reports becoming a scare tactic to reduce alcohol consumption? Is there any spirits that could be the next rise of vodka and kill whiskey? Could taxes be a big burden on stifling bourbon? Could the next generation just not like bourbon and kill it off? What happens if bourbon producers have too much greed or there is consumer fatigue? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Jack Daniel’s Twice Barreled American Single Malt. This non-age stated single malt is 105.7 proof and $70 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 17th 2023. Kentucky lawmakers passed House Bill 5 phasing out a state tax on aging bourbon barrels. Jack Daniel's announced the release of its new 12-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey along with Batch 2 of its 10-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey. This month, Green River will introduce two brand new expressions.Show Notes: New bottle tracking app called Whiskey Shelf Humble Baron, home to the world's longest bar, opening at Nearest Green Chattanooga Whiskey named Tiana Saul as Head Distiller Ship my Spirits coalition calls for spirits shipping laws in New York Data shows how much people are spending while intoxicated Kentucky lawmakers passed House Bill 5 phasing out a state tax on aging bourbon barrels ChatGPT has passed the Master Sommelier theory examinations Jack Daniel's announced the release of its new 12-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey along with Batch 2 of its 10-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey Puncher’s Chance The UNDISPUTED New Bhakta 2013 Bourbon finished in Armagnac casks Four Gate Whiskey Company announced the very limited Majestic Wood series Jim Beam has launched Kentucky Coolers Green River will introduce two brand new expressions @unclenearest @chattwhiskey @shipmyspirits @jackdaniels_us @puncherschancebourbon @bhaktaspirits @fourgatewhiskey @jimbeamofficial @greenriverdistillingco Support this podcast on Patreon

The stock market and the bourbon market share one thing in common. They are both impossible to time. If you get in at the right time, maybe you don't have to wait tens of years to make a return on your investment, but if you're too late then you could see a decline. However, in bourbon, there seems to be one person that has time working in his favor, and that's Dixon Dedman. We invite Dixon to come on the show for a third appearance to talk about a few things because it seems like his timing is always perfect. He sold Kentucky Owl to Stoli after being on the market a short period of time, but now that he is officially done with Kentucky Owl we ask him about how he feels and what he learned through the process. After leaving Stoli, he worked with The Brindiamo Group, who we also had on the podcast back on episode 182, and he worked for them for a short period of time where he got an inside glimpse into brand and investment consulting. And now, he's launching his own brand called 2XO which is perfect in this current climate when bourbon is hot and double barreling might be even hotter. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about rubbing whiskey on your hands to nose. Are you still making fried chicken on the weekends? Do you have any regrets after selling Kentucky Owl to Stoli? What did you take away and learn from working with Stoli? How did your relationship with Brindiamo begin? How many barrels are there on the open market where people are flipping them? What profiles or types of bourbon do you like to work with? Is 2XO and Kentucky Owl going to be similar or different? Is there a healthy pipeline of barrels to continue building the brand? @dixon_dedman Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Bardstown Bourbon Company Origin Series Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon. This 6 year old wheated bourbon is 100 proof and $50 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 10th 2023. The whiskey fungus at Jack Daniel's makes national headlines. A leaked document from Amazon show's they are trying to change liquor laws. Laws Whiskey House announced the 2023 release of their Bottled in Bond Four Grain Bourbon.Show Notes: The whiskey fungus at Jack Daniel's makes national headlines A German brewery is set to release the world's first 'complete' beer in powdered form A leaked document from Amazon show's they are trying to change liquor laws Bourbon:30 from Kentucky Bourbon Fest is available on YouTube Laws Whiskey House announced the 2023 release of their Bottled in Bond Four Grain Bourbon Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey has unveiled its second annual release of Diamond Peak Former Rutgers football player recently launched LeGrand Whiskey @jackdaniels_us @brownforman @lawswhiskey @stranahans @ericlegrand52 Support this podcast on Patreon

This episode is another Bourbon Pursuit milestone. It's episode 400! Well, it's technically number 668 if we include Whiskey Quickie and This Week in Bourbon, but let's not get into the details. On this Bourbon Community Roundtable we cover two topics in depth. First is the news blitz of the whiskey fungus articles focused on Jack Daniel's. If you've driven past any distillery in the past 100 or so year, you would have seen this everywhere. It also pops up in the news every year, but why is it just now making national headlines? I also ask the group if there is anything the distilleries can do to get in front of this to avoid any negative PR. The second half of the show dives into House Bill 5 that attacks the Kentucky Ad Valorem tax, in which Kentucky is the only state that taxes barrels aging and resting. We look at what this means for citizens that benefit from the tax and if we feel distilleries are already taxed enough. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about teeth staining. Why is the whiskey fungus just now making national news even though it's been around for years? What can distilleries do to make sure this argument of bad PR doesn't happen next year? What could the distilleries provide to residents to make them more comfortable? What do you think of the Ad Valorem tax on aging barrels? What would the removal of the tax mean for citizens? @breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Doc Holliday 8 Year Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey from the World Whiskey Society. This 8 year old bourbon is 131 proof and $134 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 3rd 2023. Washtucky is suing Wilderness trail for failing to make contract barrels. Acker Wines has agreed to pay a maximum fine for selling counterfeit bottles. Two new Kentucky Derby bottles are being released.Show Notes: March 3rd 1897 is when the The Bottled-in-Bond Act changed the bourbon world forever Washtucky is suing Wilderness trail for failing to make contract barrels Statement from Kentucky’s Bourbon Industry on House Bill 5 The St. Louis Bourbon Society will host the 2nd Annual Bourbon and Brews Festival on June 10th Yellowstone will donate $250,000 to National Parks Conservation Association Acker Wines has agreed to pay a maximum fine for selling counterfeit bottles Evan Williams Single Barrel Bourbon with a commemorative 51st Edition Gold Pegasus Pin sealed in teal wax Woodford Reserve will release its 2023 commemorative Derby bottle @wildernesstraildistillery @stlbourbonsociety @yellowstonebourbon @ackerwines @evanwilliamsbourbon @woodordreserve Support this podcast on Patreon

Love it or hate it, spirit competitions are here to stay. They have such an important impact on marketing and can put a small shimmer of light on a new and upcoming brand, or it changes the course and turns a brand such as Henry McKenna into an unobtainable. In this episode, Fred Minnick and Kenny Coleman talk about multiple facets of spirits competitions because we have now lived it. We're both enthusiasts like you so we care what bourbons come out on top, Fred has been a judge forever and now has his own competition called the ASCOTs, and we have our own brand with Pursuit United that has been entered and done favorably in many competitions. Fred and I analyze all these angle about talk about the "pay to play" scenario and how people are selected to be judges along with the best way to enter a competition as a brand owner. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the meaning of allocation. Fred, how long have you been a part of spirit competitions? Why weren't media members typically invited to be judges? Why is this considered "pay to play"? Why is there so much confusion based on what category to submit when it's straight bourbon vs small batch? Why would a bourbon society enter a spirits competition? What makes someone worthy enough to be a judge at a competition? Should you put batch numbers on your competition entry or just the brand? Why does MGP always perform well in competitions? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Old Fitzgerald Fall 2022 Edition. This 19 year old bourbon is 100 proof and $240 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for February 24th 2023. Tourism at distilleries is bigger than ever. Old Forester launches its inaugural Sleepeasy. Michter’s Distillery will begin releasing its 10 Year Kentucky Straight BourbonShow Notes: HB 2200 will modernize Texas laws to provide fair treatment for spirits-based ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails Tourism at distilleries is bigger than ever Old Forester launches its inaugural Sleepeasy Lost Lantern announces the release of their ninth single cask collection Michter’s Distillery will begin releasing its 10 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon @oldforester @lostlanternwhiskey @michterswhiskey Support this podcast on Patreon

Wild Turkey is one of the premier bourbon brands. We've had the pleasure of having all the Russell's on the show in previous years and it's always heartwarming to have any member of this family on to share stories. It's fun to hear the generational changes and how bourbon has developed. We had Bruce Russell on the show for the first time in 2019 on episode 199 with his cousin, JoAnn Street, but this time Bruce joins the show to talk about his journey in these last few years. Bruce has shown tremendous growth in a short period of time and we get to know more about him and how his time as a global brand ambassador really immersed him into the company and the culture. We ask Bruce about the current whiskey market and how he is carrying on a legacy and how he thinks he will leave his everlasting stamp on Wild Turkey. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about oxidation in the bottle. Did you know as a child you were going to get into whiskey? How is it different for you all being the face of the brand but not the owners of it? When you started as a global brand ambassador was that a way to get an immersive learning experience? Did Jimmy or Eddie ever tell you about being on the road before bourbon was cool? What have you seen change since you started in 2011? Why do you keep changing your packaging? What international markets is Wild Turkey getting entrenched into? Have you thought about how you are going to put your own stamp on the Wild Turkey brand? If you have ideas to implement, how do you go through your creative process? Do you think the market is ready for blending to start making more traction? Why do you keep making me hammer out bungs during single barrel picks? @russellsryeguy Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review the 16th Edition of the Parker's Heritage Collection. This 13 and 15 year old bourbon blend is 132.2 proof and $175 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for February 17h 2023. Sazerac responds to the raid on Justin’s House of Bourbon. Oregon officials get fired over allocating Pappy to themselves. Yellowstone launches its own American Single Malt Whiskey.Show Notes: Sazerac responds to the raid on Justin’s House of Bourbon Oregon officials get fired over allocating Pappy to themselves Bluegrass Distillers will build a new US$8 million distillery Buffalo Trace Distillery's new still house has officially been commissioned Sunday sales of distilled spirits has been passed in the Mississippi House Yellowstone launches its own American Single Malt Whiskey Barrell Craft Spirits has launched Barrell Bourbon Batch 34 Bluebird Distilling and country music star Jordan Davis collaborate on Bluebird Days Straight American Whiskey Woodford Reserve announces the winter 2022 Master’s Collection release - Historic Barrel Entry @houseofbourbonlex @houseofbourbonlou @houseofbourbonky @woodfordreserve @bluegrassdistillers @buffalotracedistillery @yellowstonebourbon @barrellbourbon @bluebirddistilling @jordandavisofficial Support this podcast on Patreon

Most people get into bourbon because we enjoy it. There is a story behind every bottle and that captivates us. But then there are times we get our hands on a bottle and start thinking twice before opening it. The secondary market for scotch has been around a while but bourbon is relatively new in comparison. There has been an increase of rare bourbons hitting high dollars at auctions and even more auction houses are starting to become legal. In this episode, Ryan, Fred, and Kenny analyze the bourbon market and give our opinions on why whiskey isn't just for drinking anymore. We also gaze into our crystal ball and try to guess on some brands that have potential future value and then we talk about moving on from flipping bottles to flipping barrels. Show Notes: Is whiskey really made for drinking and not collecting? Why is the value of the current whiskey market starting to decline? Is there a lack of marketing to get people into more higher end bottles? What are we drinking now that could be valuable in the future? People have moved on from bottles to starting to own barrels, is that a safe investment? Do you need to worry about the source of the barrels if you're buying on the open market? For real, this is not financial advice. Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Wolves Rye Whiskey & Hop Flavored Whiskey Batch No. 1. This non-age stated whiskey is 103 proof and $145 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for February 10th 2023. Woodford Reserve Names A New Master Distiller. Blue Run Innovates The Private Barrel Program. Heaven Hill Releases A 20-year Corn Whiskey.Show Notes: Kentucky Bourbon Trail eclipsed two million visits California has introduced a bill that allows spirits-based RTDs to be sold in more retailers Shortbarrel announced the acquisition of the famous Old Fourth Distillery Woodford Reserve named Elizabeth McCall as Master Distiller Blue Run puts a new spin on the launch of their private barrel program Heaven Hill Heritage Collection 20-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Corn Whiskey The first national Barrel Proof expression of Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey A release known as Blanton’s Char No. 4 2022 Limited Edition is popping up @kentuckybourbontrail @shortbarrelwhiskey @oldfourthdistillery @woodfordreserve @heavenhillbrands @heavenhilldistillery @bluerunspirits Support this podcast on Patreon

This is BCR #77 and its always a fan favorite so here's what we have tonight. Like bad hair and skinny jeans, trends come and go. But the same thing happens in the bourbon world. I pose a question to the group, if we see any trends fading. We start talking about stickers and barrel picks, but there are more we see happening. In the next section of the show, I ask everyone if the in-store buying experience is changing. There have been a lot of partnerships and acquisitions by Drizly, GoPuff, ReserveBar, and even Seelbachs. Are online and on-demand outlets such as these making consumers less likely to try new things? In the last part of the show, it's a question from Brian and he wants to know are there just too many bourbon festivals? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) cigars. What bourbon trends are fading? Will Drizly/GoPuff/Seelbachs/ReserveBar kill the in-store experience? How can brands get people to try new things when many people will choose what's comfortable? Are there too many bourbon festivals? It seems like every festival is now BLANK + Bourbon. @breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Chicken Cock Chanticleer Cognac Barrel Finish Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 112 proof and $500 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for January 27th 2023. Fireball drinkers are suing Sazerac for misleading labels. Drizly and GoPuff announce a new partnership to provide immediate, on-demand delivery of drinks. Sagamore Spirit releases of its limited-edition Reserve Series 8-Year-Old Rye Whiskey.Show Notes: Fireball drinkers are suing Sazerac for misleading labels CeeLo Green joins forces with the Black-owned Victor George Spirits Grain & Barrel Spirits has announced a multi-year partnership with PGA TOUR Pro Golfer Kevin Kisner Elijah Craig announced a new multi-year partnership with sports broadcaster Amanda Balionis Renner Drizly and GoPuff announce a new partnership to provide immediate, on-demand delivery of drinks Midway University’s online MBA in Tourism and Event Management program A new Israeli bourbon called Dew of B’Dolah by Thinkers Distillery Chattanooga Whiskey announced Silver Oak Cabernet Cask Finished and Batch XXIX: Centenary Cask Boondocks 18 Year Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey Sagamore Spirit releases of its limited-edition Reserve Series 8-Year-Old Rye Whiskey @fireballwhiskey @ceelogreen @vgvodka @chickencockwhiskey @kevin_kisner @elijahcraig @balionisrenner @drizlyinc @gopuff @midwayuniv @thinkers.@distillery @chattwhiskey @sagamorespirit Support this podcast on Patreon

There seems to be a growing trend in the whiskey world and that is when you start seeing the accustom faces you know and trust in a brand leave to go and start their own venture. Can you blame them? There is more opportunity to own a piece of the pie. But could we see a growing problem where we see those brands struggle to take off? To help dive into this conversation we invite Jason Callori of the Mash and Drum on the show. We kick off the show to learn more about Jason and how he built one of the largest whiskey YouTube channels. Then we talk about Master Distillers and other faces leaving their respected brands and what motivates such a move. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks the frustration of secondary prices and not finding bottles How did you get into bourbon? What channels influenced you to start your own channel? What wins, content or production value? Did you ever have a sensation of burnout? Who are some of the favorite guests that you have had on the show? Are you master distillers and faces of the brand leaving for more money? Has the Master Distiller title been diluted? How fair is it for blenders to be criticized when they only have access to what's on the open market vs what they had at their disposal at a previous company? If you have a small brand and one batch bombs, how long can you rely on your reputation? Will a whiskey geek give someone a second chance? If someone is leaving from being a face of a brand, how long should they wait until they announce they are starting a new brand? @the_mash_and_drum Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Remus Repeal Reserve VI 2022. This non-age stated bourbon is 100 proof and $100 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for January 27th 2023. Traverse City Whiskey Co. has officially broke ground on a $20M distillery. Old Elk Distillery launches its first Rye Whiskey finished in Barbados Rum Casks. Michter’s Distillery will begin shipping the 2022 Edition of its Celebration Sour Mash.Show Notes: Elijah Craig Bourbon and AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am announced a multi-year partnership A new bill introduced to the Ohio Senate would allow Ohioans to make moonshine Bourbon with HeART is launching Barrels of HeART Buffalo Trace Distillery is offering one lucky bourbon lover the trip of a lifetime ReserveBar launched its new website Get Stocked Traverse City Whiskey Co. has officially broke ground on a $20M distillery Old Elk Distillery launches its first Rye Whiskey finished in Barbados Rum Casks Hercules Mulligan Eyr & Rye, a limited-edition Irish-American Manhattan Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company. ’L.B.Co.’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon “One Cask Series” Heaven’s Door Spirits releases Bootleg Series Vol. IV, an 11-Year-Old Wheated Bourbon finished in Islay Scotch Casks Michter’s Distillery will begin shipping the 2022 Edition of its Celebration Sour Mash @elijahcraig @bourbonwithheart @buffalotracedistillery @reservebar @tcwhiskey @oldelkbourbon @herculesmulligancompany @lawrenceburgbourbon @heavensdoorwhiskey @michterswhiskey Support this podcast on Patreon

You listen to this show because you want to be a better educated bourbon consumer. Or maybe you just went off the deep-end and started buying too many bottles and now you're on the hunt for the next great bottle. Either way, I'm glad you're here. But there are all sorts of new opportunities that foster deeper knowledge with some of the premier distilleries in Kentucky, most notably, in Bardstown. Sam Lacy joins the show to talk about everything from the Bourbon Capital Community Alliance. It's an initiative from the city of Bardstown to bring in-depth and tailored educational experiences to distilleries around Bardstown along with their brand new Brindiamo Penthouse that can provide a 101-level primer for people before they hit the distilleries. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks bottles as an investment How did you get into bourbon? Why was there an initiative to form an alliance? How many partner distilleries are a part of the alliance? Is the Bourbon Capital Guild a private bourbon society? What are the distilleries asking of the city to help promote bourbon tourism? Is the Bourbon Capital Academy a proprietary education course that anyone can take? What is the Brindiamo Penthouse? How often are the courses being offered at the partner distilleries? How much does a custom distillery course cost? @bourboncapitalguild @bourboncapitalacademy @brindiamogroup Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Brothers of the Leaf Bourbon Finished in Toasted French Oak. This non-age stated bourbon is 115.4 proof and $90 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for January 20th 2023. Sazerac is suing Republic National Distributing Company in excess of $86M. Kentucky ABC seized undisclosed amounts of bourbon from Justins’ House of Bourbon. Woodford Reserve releases its Double Double Oaked Bourbon for 2023.Show Notes: Sazerac is suing Republic National Distributing Company in excess of $86M Kentucky ABC seized undisclosed amounts of bourbon from Justins’ House of Bourbon Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) implements a price increase of 4% on more than 3,500 brands Playboy Spirits has raised more than US$13 million in funding Greg Hughes, Beam Suntory chief growth and brands officer, talks RTD growth Woodford Reserve releases its Double Double Oaked Bourbon for 2023 Mystic Farm & Distillery announces the launch of Mystic Galactic, a bourbon whiskey aged for one year in space @houseofbourbonlex @houseofbourbonlou @houseofbourbonky @playboy @woodfordreserve @mysticfarmdistillery Support this podcast on Patreon

If you think there is a lot of bourbon on the shelf now, wait just a few more years. The news over the past year has been flooded with a couple million upwards to a billion dollars in capital investments from everyone in the bourbon industry. When the news dropped that Heaven Hill was going to open a new $135M distillery that will produce 150,000 barrels a year, in addition to their existing Bernheim distillery that already produces 1,500 a day, many of us scratched our heads and thought, "who is going to drink all this whiskey?". That's when I reached out to Heaven Hill and invited Susan Wahl to come on the show. She has a long, 20 plus year history working in the whiskey portfolio at Heaven Hill. She's literally seen it all. We talk about what drove the decision to build a second distillery, the threats, and how they are planning for everything in the supply chain, including barrels and labor. We also talk about data trends and where they see the international market heading. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks when barrel proof became common. What were your whiskey initiatives and marketing plan for bourbon in the early days? How did you take Evan Williams into one of the largest whiskey brands? What trends or data have you learned from the visitor center? What factors did you take into account when thinking that you need another $135M distillery that can produce 150k barrels a year? How much of your sales is domestic vs international? What threats did you see about potentially not building another distillery? Did the removal of European tariffs have an impact on your forecast? Did barrels or other supply chain factors play an important role in your forecast? What data helps you push pass the fears of a 20-year lifecycle on trends? How have you worked with the city to build new warehouses? Does Bardstown have the workforce to take care of the labor requirements? What makes you bullish about tourism for bourbon? @heavenhilldistillery Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Uncle Nearest Uncut/Unfiltered Rye Whiskey. This non-age stated uncut rye whiskey is 119.7 proof and $150 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for January 13th 2023. Barrell Craft Spirits purchases a historic rickhouse in Shively, Kentucky. The Bourbon Capital Alliance has announced the establishment of the Brindiamo Penthouse. A New Bourbon release called '78 Legends featuring a 50 year old bourbon.Show Notes: The bourbon capital alliance has announced the establishment of the Brindiamo Penthouse Neuroscientists have created a new category of non-alcoholic ‘spirit’ designed to mimic the feel-good effects of alcohol President Joe Biden pardoned a man who was convicted 60 years ago for a single instance of selling whiskey without a tax stamp Barrell Craft Spirits purchases a historic rickhouse in Shively, Kentucky Stanford University has released a study about distilleries and appearing authentic Four Roses and OSMO Salt release Toasted Vanilla Bourbon Salt Kentucky Owl has announced the release of its Batch #12 Bourbon Larceny and Elijah Craig Barrel Proof A123 are released A New Bourbon release called '78 Legends featuring a 50 year old bourbon @barrellbourbon @joebiden @bourboncapitalguild @bourboncapitalacademy @stanford @fourrosesbourbon @osmosalt @kentuckyowl Support this podcast on Patreon

It's Bourbon Community Roundtable #76 and this is one I'm excited to talk about because as you're well aware, building a brand requires choosing the right distribution partners. The big shake up of the past few weeks is that Sazerac is pulling out of Republic National Distributing Company in favor of smaller, more mid-tier, and beer focused distributors in around 30 different states. So, we want to ask the roundtable a few questions. First, what would motivate Sazerac to break up this long-standing relationship? If you are a distributor that got selected, what problems are you going to experience. And lastly, as a consumer are we going to see any change like finding Pappy on the shelf at MSRP. Spoiler alert... the answer is no. Since it's the first roundtable of 2023, we all put in our predictions and see what the future holds for bourbon this year. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about dry January. Sazerac is leaving RNDC. What does this mean for Sazerac? Sazerac goes with mid-tier distributors. How do distirbutors adapt and what happens to other brands? Does Sazerac leaving RNDC mean anything for the end consumer? What are your 2023 predictions? @breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Frey Ranch Single Barrel Rye. This non-age stated rye is 131.8 proof and $100 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for January 6th 2023. Lisa Wicker takes on the new role as CEO & Master Distiller of Lyons Brewing & Distilling Co. A new record was set at auction for Pappy Van Winkle. Hard Truth Distillery Co. announced the 2022 Hard Truth Master Distiller’s Reserve Collection.Show Notes: Lisa Wicker takes on the new role as CEO & Master Distiller of Lyons Brewing & Distilling Co The partnership between Matthew McConaughey and Wild Turkey has ended Sazerac is moving away from Republic National Distributing Company A new record was set at auction for Pappy Van Winkle Wilderness Trail set to double its bottling production Hard Truth Distillery Co. announced the 2022 Hard Truth Master Distiller’s Reserve Collection @lbwicker @alltechinc @wildturkey @officiallymcconaughey @sothebys @wildernesstraildistillery @hardtruthspirits Support this podcast on Patreon

If you listen to our Friday show called This Week in Bourbon, you would hear us talking about tequila being the next rising spirit. I mean, who doesn't like a good margarita? Much like bourbon, there is a lot to know about what goes into making the spirit. To help explain all that, we've invited Alfonso Esquivias, the Founder and Owner of Drinks with Fonz. Alfonso sent Ryan and I 12 different tequilas to sample them as we go through to know more about them. It was a lot of tequila but I promise you that I have a much deeper appreciation for tequila after this. Alfonso talks about the laws to be called a tequila and we dive into the process of harvesting agave and distilling it. We then tackle the touchy subject of how many tequilas on the market are full of additives like sugar and how you shouldn't trust many celebrity brands as well. Listen closely to the brands we talk about during the show so you know which ones are additive-free and legit. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the popularity of Buffalo Trace How did you get into spirits in general? What restrictions are in place to be called a tequila? Can you describe an agave plant? Can you explain the differences between blanco, reposado, and anejo? In bourbon you will never see anyone claim they like un-aged bourbon but why is that with tequila? How do you know which brands have additives? What are all tequilas in the 80-90 proof range? What is the typical proof off the still? Who is the MGP of tequila? So what makes something like Jose Cuervo mass-market or bottom shelf? Is saying "using tequila as a mixer" considered blasphemy? Does a particular agave field have different effect on the flavor like grapes with wine? How do you know when an agave plant is ready for harvesting? Does price point increase when proof increases? Do all celebrity tequilas have additives or are considered crap? @drinks.@with.@fonz Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Hirsch "The Bivouac" Kentucky Bourbon. Yes, we still didn't pronounce it right. This non-age stated bourbon is 100 proof and $55 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

Hey everyone, we're back again with a double header episode where you get to know more about Ryan and I. This is a long episode because we both have our own dedicated episodes on Behind The Pursuit. In the first half you will hear Episode 19 with Ryan. You will get to hear about his morning rituals and the businesses he runs and manages outside of bourbon. The second half of the show in Episode 20 with me and talks about my career progression and how I take a very data-centric and analytical approach to everything we are doing with Pursuit Spirits. Remember, if you like these episodes, then search for Behind The Pursuit on your podcast player and hit subscribe. It's a fantastic way to hear more about the inside of the industry and we talk about building a brand, glass shortages, distribution hurdles, and so much more. Subscribe to Behind the Pursuit on: Apple Podcasts Spotify iHeartRadio Amazon Music Google Podcasts

If you've been around bourbon long enough, then you know the name JW Dant. That's because the Dant name is equivalent to bourbon royalty as it is steeped in history. But there is another Dant that is wanting to bring his family name back into the distilling business and that's JW Dant, or better known as Wally Dant from Log Still Distillery. Wally joins the show to talk about his upbringing and how some early career choices he made early on put him in the fortunate position to revive life into Gesthamane Kentucky where he is building his own legacy in the bourbon business. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the American single malt category Was there ever a moment where you realized bourbon was a part of your DNA? What have you discovered about understanding about your heritage? Who was the last person, in your family tree, to work at a distillery? What was your focus of study at Purdue? How did you progress in your career and businesses that you sold? How do you transition from selling your business to figuring out what to do next? When did you decide to make the investment from sourcing Tennessee whiskey to breaking ground on a distillery? What was the inspiration for putting a focus on rebuilding the community in Gethsemane? Did the lawsuit with Heaven Hill over your name come into play early on? What does 5th district mean on your Monk's Road label? What's your plan on having your whiskey be different than anyone else's? @logstilldistillery @jwwallydant Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review King of Kentucky 18 Year. This 18 year old bourbon is 130.3 proof and $350 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

Hey everyone, at the end of the year we typically like to post some episodes that aren't our normal types and end up being fun. However, this past year we launched a second podcast called Behind The Pursuit. This new podcast releases every 2 weeks that covers topics of sourcing, forecasting, brand loyalty, raw materials, work/life balance, and more. This is a creative outlet for us to talk to you all about what it takes to build a bourbon brand. This is episode 22 of Behind The Pursuit where we talk about our journeys visiting multiple states and brand loyalty. Do bourbon geeks have brand loyalty? And how do you build brand loyalty to a general consumer? Make sure you subscribe to Behind The Pursuit on your podcast player and hit subscribe to listen to more of these episodes.  Subscribe to Behind the Pursuit on: Apple Podcasts Spotify iHeartRadio Amazon Music Google Podcasts

For the longest time, celebrities have been getting into the spirits industry. It first started off as being a spokesperson and putting a recognizable face to a brand. Now, many celebrities are coming out with their own bottles, and bourbon is no exception. In this episode, we look at many of the celebrity bourbon brands that have emerged over the past few years and analyze them. Does a celebrity care about the quality of the whiskey? Are they just in it for an added revenue stream? Are there any good ones? But we ultimately want to know if celebrities will help bourbon or hurt bourbon. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about his favorite 4th grain used in American Whiskey Do distilleries need a celebrity spokesperson anymore? If a celebrity comes out with a young bourbon does that hurt the category? Are celebrities just getting into it for another revenue stream? Should be skeptical of having a celebrity attached to a bourbon distillery? If a celebrity bourbon brand blows up, will unassuming people think that's what bourbon is supposed to taste like? Is there an example of any celebrity bourbon that is actually really good or high quality? What are the good things that come from having a celebrity whiskey? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review the inaugural release of the Heaven’s Door Decade Series. This 10 year old bourbon is 100 proof and $100 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for December 16th 2022. Pernod Ricard will invest $250 million for a state-of-the-art distillery for Jefferson’s. Willett will invest nearly $93 million for the construction of a new distillery. Booker's Bourbon has released its fourth and final batch of the 2022 collection.Show Notes: An update on BOTLD Buffalo Trace rolled out its 8M barrel on December 15th Pernod Ricard will invest $250 million for a state-of-the-art distillery for Jefferson’s Willett will invest nearly $93 million for the construction of a new distillery A holiday raffle where tickets can be purchased by visiting give270.org All Nations Distillery is the newest member of the KDA DISCUS is granted $1.12M to promote whiskey exports Chattanooga Whiskey introduces BATCH 028: CACAO INFUSED 117 Series: Old Forester Extra Extra Old Booker's Bourbon has released its fourth and final batch of the 2022 collection @botldpa @buffalotracedistillery @jeffersonsbourbon @willettdistillery @give270 @distilledspiritscouncil @chattwhiskey @oldforester @jimbeamofficial Support this podcast on Patreon

Its Bourbon Community Roundtable #75 and in this episode we focus on one major topic and then end the show looking back at this year in bourbon. Last week, the team at Breaking bourbon came out with an article called Does Bourbon Have A Small Brand Problem. It was a fascinating article because it talks about many of the interesting things we see about craft brands. Are people only interested interested in heritage brands? Is there a big knowledge gap? Is this a problem because of the unfair playing field with the three tier system? Are there too many choices or do brands just lack hype? In the last part of the show, I revisit all of our 2022 predictions to see who got it right and who got it wrong. Show Notes: Does bourbon have a small brand problem? Are small brands at an inherit disadvantage? Do brands need a level of hype to survive? Is there a lack of trust or knowledge? What was your 2022 prediction and did you get it right? @breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Jack Daniel’s Distillery Series Tennessee Rye Finished in High Toast Maple Barrels. This non-age stated rye is 101 proof and $42 MSRP for 375ml. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for December 9th 2022. Single Barrel Select moves to a new points-based system. Bardstown Bourbon Company announces it's Origin Series. Pursuit Spirits debuts the Oak Collection.Show Notes: BOTLD is a new way for Pennsylvanians to discover spirits Single Barrel Select moves to a new points based system Brindiamo Group has a new rick house located on the grounds of Log Still Distillery UK Assistant Professor Tyler Barzee has created bourbon shrooms to help with stillage Hayner Distilling announced a new whiskey experience called Whiskey Webcam American Craft Spirits Association (ACSA) and Park Street presented highlights from the 2022 Craft Spirits Data Project Wyoming Whiskey releases a 10 Year Anniversary Edition Straight Bourbon Whiskey Broken Barrel Whiskey Co. has collaborated with Los Angeles Distillery (LAD) on Broken Barrel’s first distillery Collaboration Collection Barrell Craft Spirits has announced Barrell Bourbon New Year 2023 A. Smith Bowman Distillery unveils A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength Bourbon Batch #2 The Macallan has extended its Red Collection with the release of a 77-year-old bottling Vermont distillery WhistlePig Whiskey unveiled its latest limited-edition whiskey: 10-year-old PiggyBank Rye Bardstown Bourbon Company Announces it's Origin Series Pursuit Spirits debuts the Oak Collection @botldpa @buffalotracedistillery @brindiamogroup @logstilldistillery @haynerdistilling @craftspiritsus @wyomingwhiskey @brokenbarrelwhiskey @losangelesdistillery @barrellbourbon @a.@smithbowman @the_macallan @whistlepigwhiskey @bardstownbourbonco @pursuitspirits Support this podcast on Patreon

The idea of owning a liquor store sounds great, doesn't it? It sounds like you get to play around with booze all day and you never have to worry about allocation ever again because you get to keep all the Pappy and Blanton's for yourself. That couldn't be further from the truth. It's a business that relies on margin to keep the doors open. And when those doors are open, you don't really know what can happen next. Tony Konja is the owner of Keg N Bottle. We've talked about Keg N Bottle a few times because that's our partner store for our barrel selections. But the real reason we have Tony on the show is talk about a deeper subject of the retail liquor business and that is theft. No matter what you get into, you have to assume there are terrible humans out there that will take advantage of any situation. Tony gives us an introspective look into how he combats theft from brick and mortar locations as well as online retail and how this business has even had him being held a gun point saying his last prayer. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the end of the bourbon boom Can you share your background and how you got into owning a liquor store? Do you remember about theft at the grocery store? Can you describe the setup in your store with walls of liquor? Is there a magic formula for knowing the amount of theft to account for? What measures do you take to minimize theft? What products typically have a higher theft rate? Have you ever been held at gun point? Is there a bourbon stolen pretty regularly? How do you thwart illegitimate activity with online orders? Is there a reason to keep stores open later than 10pm? Can you talk about how private barrel picks can get stolen in California? How do you deal with customers that say they never received a package from a carrier? @kegnbottleusa Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review The Last Drop Release No. 28. This non-age stated whiskey is 121.4 proof and $4,000 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for December 2nd 2022. Kentucky Distillers’ Association is seeking proposals to refresh branding assets for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Blue Run Spirits announces its final whiskey release of the year with the Blue Run Winter Solstice Collection. Heaven Hill Distillery announced the 16th edition of the Parker’s Heritage CollectionShow Notes: Bourbon & Benevolence Charity Auction & Bourbon by Kentucky’s Original Black Bourbon Enthusiasts (KOBBE) Kentucky Distillers’ Association is seeking proposals to refresh branding assets for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Still Austin Whiskey Co introduces “The Artist,” a 100% Straight Rye Whiskey from Texas grains Blue Run Spirits announces its final whiskey release of the year with the Blue Run Winter Solstice Collection Heaven Hill Distillery announced the 16th edition of the Parker’s Heritage Collection @502kobbe @kentuckybourbontrail @stillatx @bluerunspirits @heavenhilldistillery Support this podcast on Patreon

Our guest today carved a path that may seem unlikely, but in the end, seems almost fitting. Jason Brauner joined us back on Episode 057 where he talked about building the first bourbon focused restaurant in Louisville, which you all know as Bourbon's Bistro. That concept has stood the test of time and now people from all over flock to his restaurant for dinner and drinks. One particular patron of his is Andrew Wiehebrink of Independant Stave Company, who was on episode 346 talking about stave science. They began talking and came up with some proprietary barrels that will enhance a whiskey based on its original profile whether it was nutty, sweet, or floral. And that's how Buzzard's Roost bourbon was born. You will get to hear more about this journey and their process and how Jason is also moving into a brick and mortar location on West Main Street in the heart of downtown Louisville. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about combining barrels together because of angel's share Give us a refresher about how you got into bourbon When did you start collecting dusties? Do you remember your biggest dusty score? Were you one of the original restaurants that did barrel picks? What was the motivation behind Buzzard's Roost? Do you remember the first phone call when you wanted to start the brand? How did you decide what type of whiskey to use? How many proprietary barrels do you have? How do you categorize the whiskey to go into different finishing barrels? How does your blending process change when you go from 3 to 40 barrels? Are you continuing with MGP or going to work with other distilleries? When is your location in downtown Louisville going to open? Did moving from a restaurant to brand owner feel like a natural progression? What was the origin of the name Buzzard's Roost? @buzzardsroostwhiskey @bourbonsbistro Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review the Michter's Toasted Sour Mash Whiskey 2022 Release. This non-age stated whiskey is 86 proof and $100 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for November 25th 2022. Pursuit Spirits raises $8M for future whiskey purchases. Jack Daniel’s takes a dog toy manufacturer to the Supreme Court. Old Elk Distillery is proud to announce the second annual release of Master Distiller Greg Metze’s Infinity Blend Series.Show Notes: Pursuit Spirits has financed $8 million in future bourbon and rye whiskey barrel purchases American Rye: A Guide to the Nation’s First Spirit by Clay Risen Jack Daniel’s takes a dog toy manufacturer to the Supreme Court Frank August announces two expressions: the first single barrel releases and ‘Case Study’ series Rabbit Hole re-releasing Raceking Founder’s Collection Jack Daniel Distillery introduces Distillery Series selection #10 WhistlePig PiggyBack Legends Series: Brothers Osborne Barrel Hidden Barn Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Series Two Two new Stellum Black specialty blends Old Elk Distillery is proud to announce the second annual release of Master Distiller Greg Metze’s Infinity Blend Series @pursuitspirits @risenc @jackdaniels_us @thefrankaugust @rabbithole @whistlepigwhiskey @brothersosborne @hidden_barn @stellumspirits @oldelkbourbon Support this podcast on Patreon

Sherry, port, honey, sauternes, french, tokaji, toasted, and so much more. The world of cask finishing has exploded. It's what many consider to be the current wave of innovation for today's bourbon market. I mean, is there a bourbon brand that hasn't done a secondary cask finishing yet? However, this world is still a bit like the wild west. Companies are dumping bourbon into casks, there's stave additions, and there are other oak alternatives. So how do you know if your port finished bourbon is actually finished instead of blended? Unless there is a level of transparency, it's really hard to know. That's why Lee Tatum and Cody Ewars of Innerstave are joining the show. They give a history of how Innerstave had traditionally been used in wine for ages and now there is a desire for their products to be used with bourbon. We discuss what makes their oak finishing products different and how they can replicate a process time and time again versus pressing your luck on a barrel that came over from another country on a container ship. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about aging rye vs wheated bourbons Lee, what did you invent as part of the innovation team at Brown Forman? Cody did you see journalism on the decline? What did you mean when you thought that the wine space needed to change? Can you give a background of Innerstave? Can you explain what these oak alternatives are? How would someone go about using your product? How have we not seen bourbon aged on a pirate ship yet? Is this repeatable and consistent vs cask finishing? What does the menu look like for types of oak alternatives? @innerstave Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review the 2022 Old Forester Birthday Bourbon. This 11 year old bourbon is 96 proof and $150 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for November 18th 2022. Redemption loses its lawsuit with Diageo and must change bottles. Sagamore spirit releases their own 5 year bottled in bond. Kentucky Owl and Barrell Bourbon are both releasing $500 bottles Show Notes: Bardstown Bourbon Co will have a new experience in downtown Louisville Pernod Ricard has invested US$22 million to install its first RTD canning line Redemption has been forced to stop bottles after it failed to get Diageo’s injunction order thrown out Nearest Green Distillery has announced that it will add three permanent expressions Sagamore Spirit has released its second annual Sagamore Spirit Bottled in Bond Straight Rye Whiskey Hemingway Rye Whiskey First Edition with the release of the inaugural 972 bottles Blue Run Spirits announces Blue Run Emerald Rye Whiskey Puncher’s Chance announces its oldest whiskey to date with the release of Puncher’s Chance Bourbon: THE LEFT CROSS Stoli Group announces Kentucky Owl Batch #12 and Kentucky Owl Mardi Gras XO Cask Limited Edition Barrell Craft Spirits Announces BCS Gold Label Dovetail @bardstownbourbonco @pernodricard @redemptionwhiskey @diageo @builleit @unclenearest @sagamorespirit @bluerunspirits @puncherschancebourbon @kentuckyowl @barrellbourbon Support this podcast on Patreon

It's Bourbon Community Roundtable #74 and here are the topics we chose for today's show. American Single Malts. The media is a buzz talking about them and traditional heritage distilleries are starting to release some in small numbers. Is this a trend that we need to pay attention to? It's safe to say that over half the bottles on the shelf are sourced product. Has sourcing been embraced finally? Or do people not care and don't know? Every year we will see Wild Turkey pictures flood social media on Thanksgiving. What should you bring to your Thanksgiving get togethers? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about Beam decanters. American Single Malts have their own designation and legal wording. Is this a trend worth watching for us bourbon geeks? It's safe to say that over half the bottles on the shelf are sourced product. Has sourcing been embraced finally? Or do people not care and don't know? Every year we will see Wild Turkey pictures flood social media on Thanksgiving. What should you bring to your Thanksgiving get togethers? @breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Knob Creek 18 Year. This 18 year old bourbon is 100 proof and $170 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for November 11th 2022. Western Kentucky Distilling Co. announced a $30 million Distillery in Beaver Dam, Kentucky. Kroger’s third annual Ultimate Bourbon Auction to End Hunger has started. Heaven Hill Distillery announced the Fall 2022 edition of Old Fitzgerald 19 YR.Show Notes: Wilderness Trail update from Shane Baker Diageo announced it has acquired Balcones Distilling Western Kentucky Distilling Co. announced a $30 million Distillery in Beaver Dam, Kentucky Longbranch teamed up with Walden Retreats to bring a bourbon-centric, luxury ranch-style stay Jack Daniel’s has again been named the most valuable spirits brand in the world New TTB Director Stepping Up on Enforcement Kroger’s third annual Ultimate Bourbon Auction to End Hunger has started Teamsters Local 651 is leading the effort to organize Woodford Reserve IRS and the TTB raided the offices of Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits in California Castle & Key announces The Untold Story of Kentucky Whiskey, Chapter 2 in partnership with The Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild Broken Barrel Whiskey Co introduces Americana Jack Daniel’s Twice Barreled Special Release American Single Malt Finished in Oloroso Sherry Casks Dixon Dedman releases 2XO The Phoenix Blend Maker's Mark introduces Wood Finishing Series – the City Series Heaven Hill Distillery announced the Fall 2022 edition of Old Fitzgerald 19 YR @wildernesstraildistillery @balconesdistilling @longbranchbourbon @officiallymcconaughey @jackdaniels_us @krogerco @krogerchrispicks @sgwinespirits @castleandkey @_kbbg_ @brokenbarrelwhiskey @dixon_dedman @2xowhiskey @makersmark @heavenhilldistillery Support this podcast on Patreon

Our typical guests range from Master Distillers to other industry experts and pundits, but on the rare occasion I find a guest that breaks our norm and gives another view into the world of bourbon. Andy Baxter and Kyle Jahnke make up the folk music duo Penny & Sparrow. Their original appearance on the show was on Episode 228 where we got to know the guys and their love of bourbon. This time I caught them on their post-pandemic tour through Louisville and had them do their first ever Pursuit Series barrel selection. We talk about lyrical inspiration and video games and I lead them through five whiskey samples as they narrow down their choice. Without giving too much of it away, if you are interested in a bottle from this selection it's available on Seelbachs.com for a limited time until it's sold out. It is a single barrel after all! Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about why bourbon is called bourbon How did your project go with Oak and Eden? Do you get a good mix of bourbon and rye in the green room before a show? Talk about Need You on your latest album Do you record a riff or write down a lyric and then find a match between the two? Why did you choose to use claymation for your Cheyenne music video? Did you take the pandemic as a time to reconnect with music or decompress? How does video game soundtracks inspire you? What's the best video game console ever created? How do you narrow down a barrel selection? @pennyandsparrow Support this podcast on Patreon

On this special edition of Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review the 2022 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. The collection includes: Sazerac Rye 18 Year, Eagle Rare 17 Year, Thomas H. Handy, William Larue Weller, and George T. Stagg. Each bottle has a suggested retail price of $99. What's our favorite this year? Watch to find out. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for November 4th 2022. Campari Group has agreed to acquire a 70% stake in Kentucky-based Wilderness Trail Distillery for $420 million. Old Forester and King Ranch are releasing a limited-edition whisky called Old Forester King Ranch Edition. Lux Row Distillers announced the newest variant in the Ezra Brooks brand family: Old Ezra 7-Year Straight Rye Whiskey.Show Notes: Campari Group has agreed to acquire a 70% stake in Kentucky-based Wilderness Trail Distillery for US$420 million Jane Bowie and Denny Potter are announcing a new distillery in Washington County, Kentucky Pol Roger Portfolio is acquiring Leiper’s Fork Distillery Old Forester and King Ranch are releasing a limited-edition whisky called Old Forester King Ranch Edition The return of the George Dickel x Leopold Bros Collaboration Blend Log Still Distillery is introducing Monk’s Road Wheated Bourbon Wyoming Whiskey announces this year’s annual and limited release offerings of Barrel Strength Bourbon, Outryder Straight American Whiskey and Single Barrel Angel's Envy is releasing their annual cask strength edition Booker’s Bourbon Releases Third Batch of 2022 Collection "Kentucky Tea" HIRSCH Selected Whiskeys announces The Cask Strength Finished in Cognac Barrels Lux Row Distillers announces Old Ezra 7-Year Straight Rye Whiskey @campariofficial @wildernesstraildistillery @lfdistillery @oldforester @kingranchinc @georgedickel @leopoldbros @logstilldistillery @monksroad @wyomingwhiskey @angelsenvy @hirschwhiskey @luxrowdistillers Support this podcast on Patreon

Starting a brand is no easy task. There will be a lot of fails before you ever see your first success and there's a lot to the industry that have to be taken into account from a regulatory aspect, supply chain, sales, and distribution. Mike Paladini and Danny Polise from Penelope Bourbon join the show to talk about how a wild idea to start a whiskey company grew into one of the hottest new brands on the market. They traveled to MGP after reading an article about how that craft whiskey you like is actually from a factory in Indiana. From there it's been a roller coaster of emotions and now they are working on new projects to reach more bourbon enthusiasts. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the aging climate of Texas Can you talk about your wildest high school party that you threw? What started you down the path of drinking bourbon? Are more people in New Jersey finding bourbon and becoming drinkers? What were you doing before Penelope? What made you want to quit your day jobs and pursue a whiskey career? What research did you do for starting a brand and sourcing? Talk about that first day at MGP? Did MGP help you with creating your proprietary blend? Were you trying to maintain consistency or try different blends? How are you figuring out how to scale the business with bottles in 29 states and 4 countries? Are you finding it harder to buy directly from MGP with the explosion? Why go into the light whiskey category? Do you have any finished whiskey horror stories? @penelopebourbon Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C922. This 12 year old bourbon is 124.8 proof and $70 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 28th 2022. Master Distiller Lisa Wicker is leaving Widow Jane. The National Association of Wine Retailers is taking another shipping case to the Supreme Court. The details have finally been released for this year's Buffalo Trace Antique CollectionShow Notes: Whiskey Thief Distilling Co joins The Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour B. H. James Distillers announces the opening date in Adairville, Kentucky The FTC has ordered Drizly to destroy unnecessary data Skrewball's social media posts have violated the DISCUS Code The Bourbon Barrel Taxation Task Force is looking to remove barrel aging taxes Frazier Museum announced Bourbon Limited, an online Bourbon subscription membership service Widow Jane announces that Master Distiller Lisa Wicker will leave the company The National Association of Wine Retailers is taking another shipping case to the Supreme Court Jackson Purchase Distillery will increase its distilling operation investment nearly $26 million Kings of Leon has partnered with Willett to launch Kiamichi Whiskey Chattanooga Whiskey releases Experimental Batch 027: Moscatel + Sauternes Barrel Finished Penelope Bourbon announces the limited-release of Valencia The details have finally been released for this year's Buffalo Trace Antique Collection @whiskeythiefdistilling @drizlyinc @skrewballwhiskey @frazierhistorymuseum @widowjane @lbwicker @kingsofleon @willettdistillery @chattwhiskey @penelopebourbon @buffalotracedistillery Support this podcast on Patreon

It's quite apparent that cask finished bourbons are continuing to push the envelope. Every company and producer is utilizing different barrels to create new flavors and new SKUs. We sit down to analyze secondary cask finished bourbons from a legal and producer perspective. Why isn't there legal wording for recharging barrels? What are the various wine types that create better taste profiles? Is finishing a whiskey an excuse for covering up bad barrels? Can brands hide behind a whiskey speciality and do consumers even care? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about today's market growth and the bourbon boom From a judging standpoint, should secondary cask finished bourbons not be in the bourbon category? Do most consumers know Angel's Envy is not a bourbon or do they even care? Is there a label sprawl problem with every brand coming out with different finishes? What are the best types of barrels to finish a bourbon? What are the differences between the types of barrels used for various wine types? Is finishing a whiskey an excuse for covering up bad barrels? What level of risk can you take with finishing whiskey that could turn our terrible? Should there be a definition of recharging a barrel? Does age of the whiskey matter when secondary finishing? Should producers try to disclose the winery where the barrels are sourced? Do you ever get bourbon fatigue and feel like changing things up with a finished whiskey? Are barrel finishes added-value and should charge more per bottle? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Russell’s Reserve Single Rickhouse. This 10 year old bourbon is 112.4 proof and $250 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 21st 2022. Old Forester announced that Melissa Rift has been named Master Taster. New Riff debuts two new malted whiskeys. Blue Run announces  a biannual series of “micro batch” whiskeys.Show Notes: Fred Minnick To Host Blind Bourbon Live In Washington D.C. For The Uso On November 10 Wolverine and Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery unveils the Wolverine 1000 Mile x Old Rip Van Winkle Cap-Toe Batch III boot Old Forester announces Melissa Rift has been named Brand Ambassador/Master Taster Arcane Distilling introduces its second flagship whiskey, Arcane Imperial New Riff debuts the Maltster T50 Crystal Malt Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey and Aroostook Malted Rye Whiskey Michter's 20 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon The Garrison Brothers Cowboy Bourbon 2022 release Alberta Premium announces the Alberta Premium Cask Strength Rye Blue Run Flight Series is a six-whiskey micro batch collection Chicken Cock Whiskey has released Chicken Cock Chanticleer Ross & Squibb releases Remus Gatsby Reserve Old Dominick launches Straight Tennessee Whiskey Wyoming Whiskey announces 1872 9-year-old straight bourbon whiskey Dr Pepper Bourbon Flavored Fansville Reserve Arby's and BrainBrew announce Arby’s Smoked Bourbon @fredminnick @theuso @wolverine @oldforester @newriff @michterswhiskey @garrisonbros @albertadistillers @bluerunspirits @chickencockwhiskey @olddominick @wyomingwhiskey @drpepper @arbys @brainbrewwhiskey Support this podcast on Patreon

It's another month and another Bourbon Community Roundtable and we've got a great list of topics in #73. The first is stickers. I know, it seems like we talk about them all the time but now it's gotten serious. A Louisville bourbon club and liquor store chain was sued by Bob Baffert for almost $70k over a sticker, and yes, they paid up. So now, have we gone too far with stickers? Every year it seems like there are a few acquisitions that happen. Recently, we've seen Heaven Hill acquire Samson & Surrey, Pritzker buy Bardstown Bourbon, and last year MGP purchased LuxCo. These were all strategically different plays. So what do we think makes a good acquisition target in today's market? Following on that last question, those were all very high dollar buys. Is this a trend that we will see continue or is there a chance that smaller brands on the upswing could be gobbled up? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about storing bottles. Bob Baffert sued a Louisville liquor retailer for almost $70k over a sticker. Have we gone too far with stickers? What do we think makes a good acquisition target in today's market? Is there a chance that smaller brands on the upswing could be gobbled up? @breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This 17 year old bourbon is 100 proof and $185 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 14th 2022. Evergreen Liquors gets sued $50k over a Bob Baffert sticker. The nation's only bourbon boat tour is expanding. Britain’s first bourbon caller Never Say Die makes its debut.Show Notes: Liquor Store Gets Sued $50k Over Bob Baffert Sticker Brown Forman purchases the Diplomático Rum brand The nations only bourbon boat tour is expanding Black Button Distilling has broken ground on a new US$5 million distillery Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Bourbon Raffle Jack Daniel Distillery introduces the latest expressions in its Distillery Series Brown-Forman has unveiled a Jack Daniel’s American Single Malt Whiskey Company Distilling re-releases its Cask Strength Bourbon Sierra Nevada releases Colonel E.H. Taylor Bourbon Barrel-Aged Bigfoot Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish Britain’s first bourbon called Never Say Die makes its debut @coxs_evergreen_liquors @brownforman @diplomaticorum @blackbuttondistilling @houseofbourbonky @jackdaniels @company_distilling @sierranevada @basilhayden Support this podcast on Patreon

We all have our favorite people and brands we follow on social media. I hope it's Bourbon Pursuit, but there are a lot of people that get categorized as influencers on every platform like Instagram and TikTok but every brand also needs to be on social media. Since alcohol is a heavily regulated product, there are ton of rules in place to keep the industry compliant. And for the most part, many are breaking these rules on a daily basis and could potentially face legal action from government bodies like the FTC. To help get us all more educated on the subject, we're joined by Nichole Shustack who's the Counsel at McDermott Will & Emery law firm. I ask Nichole a bunch of questions about the things I see on social media everyday when it comes to influencers getting free bottles, disclosing brand connections, bourbon charity raffles, and the legal implications that follow. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about wine for the american whiskey drinker How did you get into the legal space with alcohol? Do you scroll through TikTok and say "that's not compliant!"? Are there government regulations involved with social media and alcohol promotion? How are brands breaking the rules of social media promotion without knowing? If a bottle was sent to an influencer, can an influencer or brand get fined from the FTC without disclosing it? Who is going to come after influencers if they don't disclose their relationships or free bottles? What is the maturity level or different social media platforms? Does a whiskey influencer need to be cautious about having children, pets, or Santa Claus in their posts? Is it legal for influencers or companies to give away alcohol as a part of a promotion to gain followers? What are the legal implications for people that hold bourbon charity raffles? @mcdermott_law Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Old Potrero Straight Rye Whiskey. This 6 year old whiskey is 97 proof and $65 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 7th 2022. Widow Jane Distillery announces The Vaults 2022. Knob Creek officially announces Knob Creek 18 Year Old. Buffalo Trace Distillery is announcing the upcoming annual release of all six Van Winkle whiskey expressionsShow Notes: Casey Jones Distillery creates a square still to accompany a $1.9M expansion Berlin Packaging acquires Discoglass The Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CABVI) is partnering with Northside Distilling Co. to release Braille Bourbon Whiskey Widow Jane Distillery announces The Vaults 2022 Knob Creek officially announces Knob Creek 18 Year Old Buffalo Trace Distillery announces the upcoming annual release of all six Van Winkle whiskey expressions @caseyjonesdistillery @berlinpackaging @northsidedistillingco @widow_jane @knobcreek @buffalotrace @buffalotracedistillery @jvanwinkle7 Support this podcast on Patreon

We're not in the business of consulting to brands or distilleries, but a few months ago we asked you to submit your questions about brand building to give our honest feedback and advice. In this episode we take questions from entrepreneurs that are looking to start their own brand and what types of spirits to offer based on their location and our thoughts on unconventional grains like oats, buckwheat, and rice. We also analyze labels. How important is it see stuff like "rare", "super premium", "hand crafted", or "non chill filtered" on the label? Lastly, as a brand begins to scale or potentially halts growth when is it the right time to add a new state for distribution? If you want to ask us a question about brand consultation, nothing related to the distillation process because we're not chemical engineers, shoot us a message to info@bourbonpursuit.com and we may read your question next time we record a show like this. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) asks about falisfying information about bourbon history From Alen: As a craft distillery, would you recommend to start with a product that is popular on local level or to focus on already established type of spirit? From Alen: I'm also very dedicated to the bottle and label design. I'm planning to have my custom bottle and label that I designed by myself. Is that right way? What is your thought on additional text on a label such as "non-chill filtered", "rare", "hand crafted" and is it distracting? From Nick: What’s your opinion on the potential of whiskies made from unconventional grains such as oat, sorghum, buckwheat, etc? How does a new brand analyze when it's time to add a new state in which to sell? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Rare Hare 1953 Bourbon finished in an XXO Cognac cask. This 17 year old bourbon is 111 proof and $589 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for September 30th 2022. The number of bourbon barrels in Kentucky reached a record and so have the taxes. Barrell Craft Spirits is releasing their 2022 Gray Label Bourbon. Wild Turkey Master's Keep Unforgotten, the newest release in the annual limited-edition series. Show Notes: CarbonBetter announced the certification of the world’s first carbon-negative bourbon distilled by Fierce Whiskers Distillery Diageo is not renewing its membership with the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States Evan Williams Bourbon Experience will introduce Square 6 High-Rye Rye Whiskey Sotheby’s in London, bidding opened on The Macallan The Reach 81 Years Old single malt The number of Bourbon barrels in Kentucky reached a new record and so have the taxes Chattanooga Whiskey announced the next release of their Bottled in Bond Series: Fall 2018 Vintage FEW Spirits introduces today FEW Rye Whiskey Bottled-In-Bond Uncle Nearest to release first ever rye whiskey High West Releases A Midwinter Night’s Dram Act 10 and Encore Barrell Craft Spirits is releasing their 2022 Gray Label Bourbon Wild Turkey Master's Keep Unforgotten, the newest release in the annual limited-edition series @carbonbetter @fiercewhiskers @diageo @evanwilliamsbourbon @sothebys @themacallan @chattwhiskey @fewspirits @unclenearest @drinkhighwest @barrellbourbon @wildturkey Support this podcast on Patreon

You may remember back on Episode 334 we talked about the engineering that goes into a distillery, but we forgot to start off with a key component, and that's the architecture. A quick google search for distillery architects will lead you to one place, Joseph, & Joseph + Bravura. This architecture firm is synonymous with creating the most iconic distillery and visitor center experiences across Kentucky. They got their start by designing Four Roses back in 1909 and have since then been the lead architects on places like Old Forester in downtown Louisville, Bardstown Bourbon Co, Michter's, LuxRow, Angel's Envy and so many more. We're joined by Cash Moter and Eric Huelsman who are both partners in the firm. We discuss the history of the firm and then we dive into what it takes to architect a distillery. Where to start and how do you design around constraints. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) ask what would happen if prohibition never happened How did you all become the premier place to go for architecting distilleries? How did the two firms come together? What other focuses did Joseph and Joseph have when bourbon was slow? Would you rather rehab something old or have a blank canvas? How does a conversation start about where to begin the process of architecting a distillery? How do you determine placement and arranging the tasting bar vs the still vs the bathrooms? How much influence does the customer have vs creative ideas you all have? What are some bad architectural ideas that haven't seen the light of day? Who's idea was it to start building rickhouse walls out of glass? What constraints do you typically have to work with? What was your initial reaction to the bourbon pyramids? How do you blend in old world and new world architecture? Do you have all the blueprints from the early 1900s for some distilleries? Do you envision being the one stop for having a distillery architect team? Can you have an AirBNB inside of a distillery? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Castle & Key Bourbon. This 4 year old bourbon is 98 proof and $50 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for September 23rd 2022. Former VA ABC employee pleads guilty on embezzling information regarding bourbon releases. Bardstown Bourbon Co retires the Fusion series. Maker's Mark releases the barrel rotation wood finishing seriesShow Notes: Beam Suntory will produce more bourbon while cutting back on its greenhouse-gas emissions Former VA ABC employee pleads guilt on embezzling information regarding bourbon releases Bluegrass Bottling will construct a new 50,000 square foot bottling facility Bardstown Bourbon Co retires the Fusion series Castle & Key's new experience, Walk the Ruins Mini Spirits Bottles Are On The Chopping Block In Massachusetts And Rhode Island Makers Mark releases the barrel rotation wood finishing series O.H. Ingram announced the second-ever release of its Flagship Bourbon HIRSCH announces The Bivouac Kentucky Straight Bourbon Redwood Empire Whiskey announced the release of Batch No. 002 Woodford Reserve releases Honey Barrel Finish Redemption Sur Lee Straight Rye Whiskey Chicken Cock Whiskey will release 15 barrels of limited-release Private Cask Blade and Bow has re-released its highly sought-after 22-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Historic whiskey brand Fortuna Bourbon is set to re-enter the market The Last Drop announces Release No 28: The Last Drop Signature Blend of Kentucky Straight Whiskeys @beamsuntory @jimbeamofficial @abc_va @blugrass_bottling @bardstownbourbonco @castleandkey @makersmark @ingramwhiskey @hirschwhiskey @woodfordreserve @redemptionwhiskey @chickencockwhiskey @bladeandbowwhiskey @fortunabourbon @lastdropdistillers @redwoodempirewhiskey Support this podcast on Patreon

There are new investments made into multi-million dollar distilleries every week it seems. There are more brands and product extensions popping up everyday. Yet, there's a shortage of barrels that are putting a strain on existing production. But when all this evens out and everything gets produced as planned, are we going to see an overproduction and what could be the result? Russell's Reserve is coming out with their new limited edition Single Rickhouse line extension. Sure, it features barrels that are selected from the former Camp Nelson C, but does it warrant a price tag of $250? Lastly, we look at the announcement of Angel's Envy hiring Owen Martin to be their next Master Distiller. Angel's Envy hasn't had a Master Distiller since the passing of Lincoln Henderson in 2013 who co-founded the brand. Is this an attempt to fill a void that is missing after Wes Henderson announced his retirement? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about who might be the next Dave Pickerell. There are more brands and product extensions popping up every day. This is a side effect of the boom but what will happen when everything evens out, production goes as planned, and then we see an overproduction? Russell’s Reserve has debuted an all-new, annual limited-edition collection: Russell’s Reserve Single Rickhouse. However, the price tag is $250. Is this deserving of that premium price tag? Angel's Envy hasn't had a Master Distiller since the passing of Lincoln Henderson in 2013 who co-founded the brand. Is this an attempt to fill a void that is missing after Wes Henderson announced his retirement? @breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Chicken Cock Island Rooster Rye. This non-age stated bourbon is 95 proof and $200 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for September 16th 2022. Angel's Envy announced that Owen Martin will be joining the company as Master Distiller. Independent Stave Company has agreed to purchase two stave mill facilities from Brown-Forman. Diageo has been granted an injunction to stop the sale of Redemption whiskey after it was found to dilute the Bulleit trademark.Show Notes: Four Roses Distillery has appointed Abby Martinie as its new national brand ambassador and mixologist Angel's Envy and the University of Louisville Athletic Association open the Angel’s Envy Bourbon Club Angel's Envy announced that Owen Martin will be joining the company as Master Distiller Independent Stave Company has agreed to purchase two stave mill facilities from Brown-Forman Diageo has been granted an injunction to stop the sale of Redemption whiskey after it was found to dilute the Bulleit trademark Jack Daniel’s and McLaren Racing announced today a multi-year partnership Lost Lantern announces their Fall 2022 collection Cascade Hollow Distilling Co. announces George Dickel Bottled in Bond Fall 2008, Aged 13 Years Kings County Distillery is releasing a new flagship blended bourbon Creek Water and American Rapper, Yelawolf, announce a limited edition 18-Year-Old Rye Whiskey called Sometimes Y Woodinville Whiskey will release its Special Limited Release Woodinville Moscatel Finished Straight Bourbon in 23 markets Log Still Distillery has released a new Tennessee whiskey product line called Rattle & Snap @fourrosesbourbon @angelsenvy @independentstavecompany @brownforman @bulleit @bulleitwhiskey @diageo @redemptionwhiskey @jackdaniels_us @lostlanternwhiskey @kingscountydistillery @creekwaterwhiskey @yelawolf @woodinvillewhiskeyco @logstilldistillery Support this podcast on Patreon

Whiskey is an amazing product. It's a testament of blending science and nature to create something that didn't exist naturally. And during that process from grain to bottle, you can manipulate a multitude of variables to create a brand new type of whiskey or some flavor nuance that hasn't been discovered. TX Whiskey is a growing brand and they have some strong pedigree of people working to shape their whiskey profile. We're joined by Ale Ochoa who is their whiskey scientist. She analyzes, studies, and makes suggestions on what to do with finished whiskey at TX but also has an influence during every step of the process. We talk about how she landed her dream job after college at TX what how she is learning about particular barrel placements in the warehouses and finishes. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks cocktail culture of the spirits industry Was there ever an influence of whiskey in your family? What was it about whiskey that made you focus your college studies on it? Did you choose the title of Whiskey Scientist? Have you had any discoveries or big takeaways with aging in Texas? Does the fermentation process have a different effect in Texas? Can you talk about the wood and cooperage you're using? How are you determining when to pull sample lots? Do you have a hypothesis of what will happen to barrels and oak aging in different locations? Why did you decided to get into the finished barrel category? So what barrel finishes did not work? Are you blending both of your warehouse locations together or keeping them separate? @txwhiskey Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review O.K.I. Reserve Blended Bourbon Whiskey. This 3-10 year old bourbon is 100 proof and $80 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for September 9th 2022. Pursuit Spirits announces a thirteen-city road trip tour. Adam Herz, the whiskey investigator, found another faker based in Omaha. Bardstown Bourbon Co. will release another Collaborative Series with leading French Armagnac house Chateau de LaubadeShow Notes: Pursuit Spirits Announces a thirteen-city road trip tour St. Louis Bourbon Festival on October 21st 2022 The Nelson Distillery warehouse has been demolished in Louisville Wilderness Trail announces Barrel picks offered to Family Tree members New Riff Distilling extends distribution to DC, MD, and DE Speyside Bourbon Cooperage will opens its first Pennsylvania facility Adam Herz, the whiskey investigator, found another faker based in Omaha Nebraska Legislators tackle the bourbon barrel tax Filmland Spirits announces its world premiere Stoli Group releases the Kentucky Owl Takumi Edition Wenzel Whiskey marks its debut Bardstown Bourbon Co. releases Chateau de Laubade Collaborative Series @pursuitspirits @stlbourbonsociety @wildernesstraildistillery @newriff @speysidecooperage @filmlandspirits @kentuckyowl @wenzel_whiskey @bardstownbourbonco Support this podcast on Patreon

Every few years there is a technology that will revolutionize society. I've personally grown up with the invention of social media when you had to have a university email address to sign up for facebook. Social media trends shift over time. Twitter came on strong by cramming as much information as possible into 140 characters, sharing images wasn't new but filters is what took Instagram to new heights. But now short form video with TikTok is the new craze. I've been a fan of this platform but I wanted to invite Logan and Mac Hanes of Basement Rickhouse on the show because they are one of my favorite bourbon TikTok accounts. There's no shortage of people doing whiskey reviews or top 10s on TikTok but Logan and Mac will speak to this audience because their key to success is story telling with bourbon history. We talk about their account and success but we also touch on why this is no longer a platform for dancing teenager, but it's time that brands need to start paying attention to TikTok. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about gift ideas What was your bourbon journey like that got you to this point? As a Buffalo Trace tour guide, how do you keep learning new information? How did you train yourself be on the tasting panel at Buffalo Trace? Why did you make TikTok your platform of choice? Why do we not see more brands try TikTok? What have you found that helps videos go a bit viral? Are you diving into more bourbon history to create your content? How often do distilleries ask you to not share a TikTok? @basementrickhouse Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Frank August Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 100 proof and $70 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for September 2nd 2022. Denny Potter and Jane Bowie both leave Maker's Mark at the same time. Blue Run Spirits will invest almost US$51 million into building a 35,000-square-foot distillery in Georgetown KY. Russell’s Reserve announces the debut of Russell’s Reserve Single RickhouseShow Notes: Modelo is celebrating college football fans by giving them the chance to win a $100,000 “salary” prize The global cannabis drinks market is set to grow by a value of $8.3 billion in 2032 The Frazier History Museum is launching an online bourbon subscription membership Denny Potter and Jane Bowie both leave Maker's Mark at the same time Fresh Bourbon Distilling Co. announces the opening of their bourbon and cocktail tasting experience Brown-Forman Corporation reported financial results for its first quarter of fiscal 2023 Buffalo Trace increases whiskey making at the distillery of 50 percent Blue Run Spirits will invest almost US$51 million into building a new distillery Whistlepig has launched its Piggyback 100 Proof Bourbon The Louisville Orchestra, in partnership with Woodford Reserve, “A Spectacle for the Senses” is a full-orchestral concert Russell’s Reserve announces the debut of Russell’s Reserve Single Rickhouse @modelo @makersmark @dppotterjanetthomasbowie @freshbourbon @brownforman @jackdaniels_us @woodfordreserve @buffalotracedistillery @bluerunspirits @whistlepigwhiskey @russellsreservebourbon @louisvilleorchestra Support this podcast on Patreon

It's only been in the past 10 years that we have seen bourbon go through true innovation. Barrel finishes and blending different distillates weren't as common as they are now. Barrell Craft Spirits has been a pioneer in this space. In this episode we're joined by Will Schragis the Chief Product Innovation Officer for Barrel Craft Sprits. Will has been around since the beginning of Barrell and he tells how they approach innovating new products and the stories behind some of their most highly acclaimed and in-demand product extensions like Dovetail and Seagrass. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about blending subpar whiskey What were the early days like trying to establish the Barrell Bourbon brand? How do you deal with UPC code sprawl? What challenges do you experience with this business model of doing so many unique things? How do you scale Seagrass from a finishing standpoint? How do you determine what factors go into process innovation? Does constant customer education play a role with innovation? How can American whiskey move beyond blend being a dirty word? How can you be transparent when barrels need to be reconditioned? Do the micro-blends serve as a training ground for new products? Why has there not been a specifically toasted product yet? Can you explain why $500 gold label demanded the price? Was Stellum a way to introduce a lower price tag into the line? @barrellbourbon Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Hardin’s Creek Colonel James B. Beam Whiskey. This 2 year old bourbon is 108 proof and $80 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for August 26th 2022. The Kentucky Bourbon Benefit raises $1.4M. Freddie Noe has released the sixth chapter in his acclaimed Little Book Whiskey series, “To The Finish.” Four Roses Distillery has announced its 2022 Limited Edition Small Batch Bourbon.Show Notes: The Kentucky Bourbon Benefit raises $1.4M Woodford Reserve is creating a sensory experience at Charles De Gaulle Airport in Paris, France The Macallan partners with luxury automotive Bentley Motors in new release Buffalo Trace Distillery announces the Buffalo Trace Bourbon Heritage Month Collection Kentucky’s Original Black Bourbon Enthusiasts are bringing back their 5th Annual Bourbon & Benevolence Tasting & Charity Auction Campari Group buys a 15% minority stake in Howler Head Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey has been ranked among the top 1,000 companies honored on the 2022 Inc. 5000 list Louisville Bourbon Transit Co releases the fifth batch of Bedtime Bourbon Freddie Noe has released the sixth chapter in his acclaimed Little Book Whiskey series, “To The Finish.” Michter’s Distillery will release its US*1 Toasted Barrel Sour Mash Whiskey Shirakawa 1958 Single Malt, believed to be ‘the world’s rarest Japanese whisky’, will be distributed worldwide Barrell Craft Spirits will introduce Barrell Vantage Four Roses to releases 16-year-old OESV barrels Four Roses Distillery has announced its 2022 Limited Edition Small Batch Bourbon @woodfordreserve @the_macallan @bentleymotors @buffalotracedistillery @buffalotrace @502kobbe @campariofficial @campariusa @howlerheadwhiskey @uncleanearest @beamgeneration8 @michterswhiskey @barrellbourbon @fourrosesbourbon Support this podcast on Patreon

It’s Bourbon Community Roundtable #71 where we are joined by the likes of all of our friends to talk about some hot topics in the recent bourbon news. Up first, we discuss lotteries vs lines. Now that Old Forester and Four Roses have announced they are no longer going to sell their limited birthday bourbon and small batch editions in the gift shop to local Kentuckians from people camping out, it has moved to a nationwide sweepstakes where anyone can enter. So, is this the beginning of the end for waiting in lines for bourbon? The Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame is inducting six new people. There is criteria to make it, but what criteria would we consider to be in our hall of fame? Lastly, we look at an old topic which is what is the cheapest bottle you need to own? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about whiskey for medicinal purposes Is Waiting in Line Dead? What's the criteria for the Bourbon Hall of Fame? What is the cheapest bottle worth having? @oldforester @fourrosesbourbon @kentuckybourbontrail @breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Jack Daniel’s Small Batch Coy Hill. This non-age stated whiskey is 153.2 proof and $55 MSRP (375mL). Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for August 19th 2022. The Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame will induct six new individuals.King of Kentucky packs two new 15 and 18year old releases. Old Forester Birthday Bourbon Allocation Goes Into A National SweepstakesShow Notes: Rally is selling 2,000 shares at $7 each for a six-bottle collection of Pappy Van Winkle Beam Suntory has double-digit net sales growth for the first half of 2022 Wigle Whiskey sells to the owner of the Pittsburgh Pirates Hard Seltzer and RTD shares increase in 2022 from IWSR The Scottish government will review if the angels’ share has health and environmental impacts The Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame will induct six new individuals Ross & Squibb Distillery announce Remus Repeal Reserve Series VI Straight Bourbon Whiskey King of Kentucky packs two new 15 and 18 year old releases @rally @jdflicker @robbreport @beamsuntory @wiglewhiskey @brownforman @kentuckybourbontrail Support this podcast on Patreon

Some people will say we are currently experiencing a bourbon shortage. However, if you go to your local store you will see it's quite the opposite. There are walls of bourbon and with so many labels it's hard to know where everything comes from. To help dig through this topic I've invited Chad & Sara from It's Bourbon Night to join the show. We talk about how they met and how they've grown their YouTube channel into one of the premier places on the internet to get informative opinions on the latest whiskey releases as well as the favorite amongst many YouTubers, lists and top 10s. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about opening bottles prior to purchase for allocated bottles When did you start your YouTube channel? Do you remember your first video? Are there some videos that never get published? Have you figured out the formula to get the mosts views possible? How have you been able to combat the negative comments that come on the internet? Have you had to pivot on how you create content and find new audiences? Have you started to see an overcrowding of brands on the market? Is there such a thing as a "bad run" of MGP barrels? Will MGP still be the go-to source in 5 or 10 years? When production catches up, how do you determine who get space on the shelf? What will hurt the bourbon market the most? Are celebrity whiskey brands going to overcrowd the market? Will we start seeing labels begin to fail? @itsbourbonnight Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Ben Holladay Bottled-In-Bond Bourbon. This 6 year old bourbon is 100 proof and $60 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for August 5th 2022. An Israeli distillery makes country’s first Kentucky bourbon-style whiskey. Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board members are investigated after buying leftover Pappy lottery bottles. Goose Island Bourbon County Stout announces 7 variants for this year's release.Show Notes: Revival Vintage Bottle Shop to Open New Location This Fall at North by Hotel Covington High West announced its Protect the West initiative and Campfire Release Maker’s Mark is honoring its co-founder, Marjorie Samuels, with the opening of a special permanent vestibule 11 American Whiskey Trends in 2022 from Beverage Dynamics Magazine The World’s 10 Most Valuable Spirits Brands (2022) Caskshare is set to launch The Big Lie aimed at Trump Breckenridge Distillery and the Denver Broncos announced two new limited-edition Mile High Bourbon Blends Old Overholt Straight Rye Whiskey will increase to a four-year age statement Antheum Studios and Tennessee Legend Distillery present Assassin’s Creed Straight Bourbon Whiskey @revivalvintagespirits @drinkhighwest @makersmark @beveragedynamics @caskshare @breckdistillary @broncos @old_overholt_official @jimbeam @beamsuntory @antheumstudios Support this podcast on Patreon

Every brand finds their path. Some will talk about their grains sourced right on their farm. Some will rely on a historical figure from decades ago. But for Rabbit Hole, it's been about being a modern brand. Kaveh Zamanian makes his return to the show to talk about how the brand has changed in the few years since we had him on last. We discuss how their brand and liquid has evolved, how they are reaching into new demographics, his take on their new series of high end innovations and collaborations and a past time favorite of all of ours, dusty hunting. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about being Fred Minnick Why don't you go by Doctor Z? Did you originally intend the distillery to be built for Fred to have a 24-hour fermentation sleepover? Is the location of the distillery challenged by location since it's in a popular location? What are you doing to keep up with demand? Are you positioning yourself as a modern brand? Has the consumer mindset changed over the past few years now that the brand has grown? How do you collect your demographic data? What approach are you taking that you have such a high female consumer-base? How were you able to create no market confusion with your expressions? Why do you have a fascination with malting? Can you tell from the malting process that something will work or do you have to see it all the way through? What makes your 10 year blend and the 16 year french oak release special? What does the Founder's Collection mean to you as this was introduced? How did you get hooked up with Starlino? Are there barriers to entry as you grow and expand into international markets? Are bartenders or stores the best way to spend your resources for getting to market? How has your dusty hunting collection going? Are you trying to recreate some of your favorite dusties? @rabbithole @kzrabbithole Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Buzzard's Roost Cigar Rye. This non-age stated rye is 105 proof and $75 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for August 5th 2022. An Israeli distillery makes country’s first Kentucky bourbon-style whiskey. Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board members are investigated after buying leftover Pappy lottery bottles. Goose Island Bourbon County Stout announces 7 variants for this year's release.Show Notes: The silent auction for Eastern Kentucky flood victims starts Aug 11th An Israeli distillery makes country’s first Kentucky bourbon-style whiskey Jim Beam has revealed plans to invest more than US$400 million to expand the Booker Noe Distillery TTB proposes to include “American single malt whisky” as a distinctive product of the United States Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board members are investigated after buying leftover Pappy lottery bottles Buzzard’s Roost Whiskey is celebrating its third anniversary with a pair of new bourbon releases Lux Row announced Daviess County Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Lightly Toasted American Oak Barrels American Mash & Grain releases Borrowed Page Volume 1 Barrell Craft Spirits releases BCS Gray Label Dovetail Goose Island Bourbon County Stout announces 7 variants for this year's release @fredminnick @jimbeam @buzardsroostwhiskey @daveisscountybourbon @barrellbourbon @gooseisland @mashngrain Support this podcast on Patreon

You've probably heard of the legendary Stitzel-Weller distillery. Getting a taste of whiskey created by this famous place is nearly impossible for the average person. But, there is one opportunity that remains where you can get just a hint at the greatness. Doug Kragel joins the show to give us the history and in-depth breakdown of Blade & Bow. As a brand educator he knows all about the products in the Diageo portfolio and we try and dig into more about the identity of these whiskeys. And to make everyone jealous, we even get to drink the limited 22 year old release. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about distribution markups How did you get into a role of an ambassador or brand educator? What was the George Dickel brand like when you started? How do you determine criteria for an accelerator program? Why was Blade & Bow created? How does a partnership form to get whiskey to make this brand without revealing sources? What's the difference between fractional blending vs solera? Is there a team or a single master blender? What if I challenged you and said are there really 20 year old barrels being dumped in the blend? Why only have a small still at Stitzel-Weller and not try to recreate the magic it once had? Why have partnership with Garden & Gun at the distillery? What is the next phase of growth for Blade & Bow? What does a membership to the Five Keys Club get you? Why do a 22 Year Blade & Bow vs another Orphan Barrel? Will we ever see Bulleit distilled whiskey go into Blade & Bow? @bladeandbowwhiskey @stitzelwellerdistillery Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Blue Run Reflection 1. This non-age stated bourbon is 95 proof and $90 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for July 29th 2022. A Task force is being formed to investigate and possibly lower taxes imposed on Kentucky bourbon. Spirit of Gallo has invested in Horse Soldier Bourbon.Four Gate drops 4 new releasesShow Notes: A Task force is being formed to investigate and possibly lower taxes imposed on Kentucky bourbon Castle & Key now has an AirBNB A free resource for learning called “Bourbon School” on YouTube by Henrik Brandt Spirit of Gallo has invested in Horse Soldier Bourbon 21c Museum Hotel’s original Louisville location is an official, top-level Barrel sponsor of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Old Louisville Whiskey is coming to Kentucky in early August ASW Distillery is releasing Fiddler Chin Music that commemorates the Atlanta Braves’ 2021 Championship run 291 Colorado Whiskey and Master Blender Marianne Eaves collaborate on 291 “E” Eaves Release Four Gate Whiskey Company has announced four new releases @horsesoldierbourbon @castleandkey @the_bourbon_nerd @21clouisville @21clexington @21chotels @oldlouisvillewhiskeyco @aswdistillery @braves @distillery291 @mariannebmd @fourgatewhiskey Support this podcast on Patreon

The roundtable is our monthly show where we look at new and interesting angles for the bourbon ecosystem. Marketing plays a big role in whiskey. There always needs to be a story that sells the brand. Last week, an article in VinePair sparked the question as to whether or not you need heritage for American whiskey. How important is it to have a deep lineage to bourbon and is that necessary for customer appeal? In the second half of the show, we break down finished bourbons and why in the past few years have we seen a big surge and what makes that attractive to more consumers. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the history of barrel proof bourbon. Does heritage matter in American whiskey? Why are we attracted to finished bourbons? @vinepair @bourbonr @breakingbourbon @sippn_corn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Rossville Union 2022 Barrel Proof. This 7 year rye is 117.2 proof and $70 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for July 22nd 2022. Bourbon Women SIPosium details are in and tickets are available. Herz tracks down a counterfeiter who sold bottles through Unicorn Auctions. Limestone Branch Distillery announces the 2022 Yellowstone Limited Edition. Show Notes: Update on Heaven Hill from an enthusiast who saw line cheating Buffalo Trace plans to add a new tourism and dining destination The Catholic Education Foundation's inaugural online bourbon raffle raised $105,000 The Bourbon Women's annual SIPosium Conference August 25 to 28, 2022 Adam Herz busts a Wisconsin man who sold over $18k in counterfeit bourbons via Unicorn Auctions Timberwolf Whiskey is launched and caters to outdoors enthusiasts Brother’s Bond launches its first limited-release, Brother’s Bond Original Cask Strength Bourbon Arcane Distilling introduces its flagship whiskey, Arcane Alpha A team of four friends and founders announce the release of Hidden Barn Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Limestone Branch Distillery announces the 2022 Yellowstone Limited Edition @bourbonwomen @unicornchicago @heavenhilldistillery @buffalotracedistillery @brothersbondbourbon @arcane_nyc @hidden_barn @yellowstonebourbon @limestonebranch Support this podcast on Patreon

There's not many people in the bourbon industry that have a story like our guest. Bo Garrett wanted a better life than working in the coal mines of eastern Kentucky. He picked up a guitar and left for Lexington, Kentucky to be discovered. He met some key people that would change his life forever and spent over 20 years together on the road as the lead guitarist for Montgomery Gentry while being sponsored by Jim Beam. After the tragic passing of Troy Montgomery, it sent Bo to a dark place and he needed something. After a fateful run-in with Jimmy Russell while having dinner with Fred Noe, he started giving tours at Wild Turkey and discovered a new passion and became one of their esteemed Brand Builders. After you hear this story, you will see that Bo is the literal rockstar of the bourbon world. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about proofing based on taste or most money Did you have a family history in moonshining? When did you start getting into playing guitar? What genre did you first start with? What did the music career really take off? What was your best and worst tour experience? Do you miss life on the road and touring? What is your guitar of choice? Do you still keep in touch with everyone in the band? How did Booker Beam and Montgomery Gentry come together? Do you look back on your days on the road and wish you hunted more? What made you want to be a tour guide at Wild Turkey when you weren't touring? How are you finding historical information and pictures to share on social media? Are you digging up more history on Jimmy Russell as you spend time with him? What else are you doing as a Brand Builder at Wild Turkey? @wildturkey @montgomerygentry Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Basil Hayden Subtle Smoke. This non-age stated bourbon is 80 proof and $50 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for July 15th 2022. Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience is currently in the process of changing their special releases. Bardstown Bourbon Company releases Discovery #8 and Discovery #9. Heaven’s Door Spirits announces the inaugural release of its Decade Series.Show Notes: A global shortage of bourbon has led to a lack of cheap RTDs in New Zealand Securities Commissioner in Texas dismissed a cease and desist order against Whiskey & Wealth Club Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience is currently in the process of changing their special releases An ABC investigation led to four felony indictments against two men sharing Virginia ABC liquor store information Copper & Kings has launched a new tour and bourbon Bardstown Bourbon Company releases Discovery #8 and Discovery #9 Barrell Bourbon Batch 033 is announced Heaven’s Door Spirits announces the inaugural release of its Decade Series Woodford Reserve releases its annual limited-edition Batch Proof. Second Booker’s Bourbon batch of its 2022 collection is here, “The Lumberyard Batch.” Support this podcast on Patreon

We all come from different backgrounds, yet we all find a passion in bourbon. One of the most intriguing stories I have ever been introduced to is from our guest today, Caroline Paulus. Her first love and her area of study is archeology. She had no idea that coming to Kentucky from Wisconsin on a dig would lead her into a new career in bourbon. She is fascinated with the history of whiskey and that has made her become one of the leading authorities when it comes to analyzing dusties. As the whiskey historian at Justin's House of Bourbon and senior editor for The Bourbon Review, she tells her story about falling into this line of work and some stories about running one of the best stores dedicated to bourbon in Kentucky. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about distilling presence during World War II Was whiskey ever a thing in your household or did you discover it later in life? Why do people from Wisconsin ruin an old fashioned? What was your original archeology digs in Kentucky focused on? How do you make the jump from being an archeologists to getting into bourbon? How are you now after losing your senses to COVID? Who taught you to get comfortable tasting whiskey? At what point do you become a whiskey historian? Have you been able to spot fake dusties? What's the most popular item sold at Justin's House of Bourbon? Can you try to hand sell me a dusty bourbon? @houseofbourbonlex @houseofbourbonky @houseofbourbonlou @bourbonreview @misswhiskeyhistorian Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Blood Oath Pact 8. This non-age stated bourbon is 98.6 proof and $120 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for July 8th 2022. Bardstown Bourbon Company has entered into an agreement to acquire Green River Spirits Company. Jackie Zykan announces her next venture called Hidden Barn. Russell's Reserve 13 is now an annual release with the next one coming soon.Show Notes: Bardstown Bourbon Company has entered into an agreement to acquire Green River Spirits Company Jackie Zykan announces her next venture called Hidden Barn Malcolm Jenkins joins as a Board Member and Investor of New Liberty Distillery Pernod Ricard is creating a dedicated business unit called The American Whiskey Collective New Riff Distilling broke ground on a 40,000 barrel warehouse Disney unveils $5000 drink on new cruise CULPER BRO’S 355 is a new bourbon for the UK market Old Forester Distilling Co. announcesThe 117 Series – Whiskey Row Fire Silver Screen Bottling and Alan Jackson release Silverbelly Russell's Reserve 13 is now an annual release with the next one coming soon Diageo and The Vita Coco Company announce a new series of Captain Morgan RTDs @bardstownbourbonco @jackiezykan @malcolmjenkins @pernodricard @newriff @disneycruisline @oldforester @officialalanjackson @russellsreservebourbon @vitacoco Support this podcast on Patreon

Smooth Ambler made a name for themselves with Old Scout. It was before the big craze of higher-aged sourced MGP when it was relatively easy to find. But, all good things come to an end and now they had to figure out how to keep that business sustainable. John Little, Founder of Smooth Ambler, joins the show once again to talk about why transparently sourcing whiskey was a critical component of the business. John feels they made plenty of mistakes early on and are trying to recapture the glory Old Scout once had. We dive into the economics of the sourced market of increased costs and what the future holds for their own distilled whiskey. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the best introduction to bourbon flights How hard was it to take a step back from being involved with every facet of the business? Why did sourcing whiskey never leave your business? Did the market dictate Old Scout's trajectory? Why not shut down the still and go all-in on sourced product? Did you ever think about putting Old Scout to the side once your distilled product was ready? What future modeling did you use to figure out when to put down new make or just purchase aged inventory? What was the reaction when Old Scout went off the market and back on? Why was transparency so important when it came to telling the Old Scout story? Besides capital, what initial challenges do you have sourcing whiskey? How much better have you gotten at projecting pipeline and future growth? Aged stock has increased significantly, so how are you handling this? As barrel prices increase are you absorbing costs or planning on passing on those costs? @smoothambler Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Blade and Bow 22 Year Bourbon. This 22 year old bourbon is 92 proof and $450 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for July 1st 2022. Catoctin Creek Distilling Co. and heavy metal rock band legends GWAR are back for the second annual release. Jack Daniel introduces Small Batch Special Release Coy Hill High Proof in 375ml bottles. Stellum Spirits introduces Stellum Black specialty blends.Show Notes: Scotch Whiskey exports gave the UK $175 per second in 2021 Researchers released a report on the economic impact Texas distillers made Limestone Branch Distillery has donated $25,000 to aid floods impacting Yellowstone National Park Five new laws passed for licensees and applicants of Virginia Catoctin Creek Distilling Co. and GWAR are back for the second annual release Hotaling & Co. relaunches Old Potrero Straight Rye Whiskey Redbreast has unveiled Kentucky Oak as the first release in its new American Oak series High West Distillery has launched the 2022 edition of its Spring Rendezvous Rye Jack Daniel introduces Small Batch Special Release Coy Hill High Proof Stellum Spirits introduces Stellum Black specialty blends @limestonebranch @yellowstonenp @abc_va @catoctincreek @gwar @hotalingandco @redbreastwhiskeyus @drinkhighwest @jackdaniels_us @stellumspirits Support this podcast on Patreon

I know you've missed it, but the roundtable is back for another big show talking about spicy topics. The big news of Jackie Zykan leaving Old Forester made waves in the bourbon world. Is she a replaceable asset to Brown-Forman and what happens with the 117 series? King's County and the Irish Whiskey Association are in a battle over the use of "irish-style" whiskey on the label. Who should give an inch here? Would we be up in arms if someone outside the US used "bourbon-style" on their label? And there's always more sticker talk but this time we go over the use of copyright and trademarks on different distilleries bottles. Show Notes: Jackie Zykan is leaving Old Forester. What do we think will happen to the brand? Is she replaceable? King's County and the Irish Whiskey Association are in a battle. King's County created an "irish-style" whiskey and the IWA sent a cease and desist. What would we think if a distillery in Ireland created a "bourbon-style" whiskey and put that on the label? Stickers are going less than subtle now. In the case of copyright issues, should distilleries start caring more? @bourbonr @breakingbourbon @sippn_corn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Yellowstone Family Recipe. This 6 year old bourbon is 100 proof and $70 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for June 24th 2022. Master Taster Jackie Zykan steps away from Old Forester. King’s County Distillery has been served a cease-and-desist letter by the Irish Whiskey Association. Bardstown Bourbon Company’s newest Collaborative Series with Plantation Rum Show Notes: Master Taster Jackie Zykan steps away from Old Forester Sought-after American whiskies at Whisky Hammer’s The Spirit of America Whiskey Auction TTB Approved 177.7K Products L12M through May 2022 Registration is open for the 2022 American Distilling Institute Craft Spirits Conference & Expo Augusta Distillery has broken ground on a $23 million distillery Absolut Company has partnered with Blue Ocean Closures to develop a natural fiber-based cap King’s County Distillery has been served a cease-and-desist letter by the Irish Whiskey Association Lugh Gill Distillery in Ireland announces its acquisition by the Sazerac Company Bardstown Bourbon Company’s newest Collaborative Series with Plantation Rum Coal Pick Distillery out of Drakesboro, Kentucky has released their first wheated bourbon Wyoming Whiskey announces its limited edition Powder River straight bourbon whiskey FEW Spirits releases Motor Oil Whiskey collab with Black Rebel Motorcycle Club Tamworth Distilling is making its whiskey from an unusual ingredient, the green crab @jackiezykan @brownforman @whiskyhammer @americandistilling @augustakydistillery @absolutus @kingscountydistillery @bardstownbourbonco @plantation.@rum @wyomingwhiskey @fewspirits @brmcofficial @tamworth_distilling Support this podcast on Patreon

Toasted barrels are all the rage right now, but why? Do they taste better than the regular bourbon counterparts? Or has the consumer shifted their taste profile? In this episode, the Bourbon Pursuit team sits down and blind tastes our way through four samples and we ponder on many questions in the toasted category. Where did it start? Do different mashbills effect the outcome? and Where should the line be drawn on what's acceptable? We examine this and a lot more as we also pick our favorite in the lineup. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about dusty bourbon taste We blind Woodford Reserve Double Oak, Elijah Craig Toasted, Michter's Toasted Barrel, and Wild Turkey One Where did we see the first ever release of toasted barrels? Do different mashbills effect a toasted release? Why aren't toasted barrel releases transparent with the time spent in the barrel? Why did Woodford make their toasted Double Oaka line extension while others are limited editions? Why you think double oak finishing will explode because of young bourbon? Will toasted barrels be a mainstay or a trend? How does barrel entry proof effect the toasted barrel? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Kentucky Owl Bourbon St. Patrick’s Edition. This non-age stated bourbon is 100 proof and $135 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for June 17th 2022. Pursuit United has been crowned “Best Bourbon” at the 2022 John Barleycorn Awards. Is bourbon losing popularity to tequila and mezcal? WhistlePig has launched two new bottled-in-bond whiskeys.Show Notes: Pursuit United has been crowned “Best Bourbon” at the 2022 John Barleycorn Awards for Spring Is bourbon losing popularity to tequila and mezcal? Brindiamo Group released a new video series called "The Business of Bourbon" Ezra Brooks 99 and Rebel 100 brands will be available in 1.75L bottles Pennsylvania may get rid of government-ran liquor sales Nine distilleries have joined forces to create the Sonoma County Distillery Pass Michigan Craft Distillers Association announced the Michigan Distilled Festival Boundary Oak Distillery announces a $4 million expansion The annual Kentucky Bourbon Affair fantasy camp won’t happen in September 2022 Hella Cocktail Co. announced a $5 million investment from Uncle Nearest Dream Theater guitarist John Petrucci unveiled Rock the Barrel 2 O’Shaughnessy Distilling Co. has launched Keeper’s Heart Bourbon + Irish Goodwood Brewing + Spirits is releasing a collaboration with Three Chord Bourbon Frank August 100 Proof Small Batch Bourbon has been announced Brown-Forman Corporation and The Coca-Cola Company announced Jack & Coke RTD Nevada Distilling has a new product called Smoke Wagon Uncut The Younger WhistlePig has launched two new bottled-in-bond whiskeys @pursuitspirits @ezrabrooksbourbon @jackdaniels_us @brindiamogroup @rebelbourbon @sonomacounty @mispirits @boundaryoakdistillery @ky_bourbonaffair @hellacocktailco @johnpetrucciofficial @ironsmoke @odistillingco @goodwoodbrewing @threechordbourbon @thefrankaugust @brownforman @cocacola @smokewagonwhiskey @whistlepigwhiskey Support this podcast on Patreon

If you saw a market that was a sinking ship, would you jump on board? That was bourbon 25 years ago when clear spirits were winning. Trey Zoeller joins the show once again to reflect on the past 25 years. We dive into what it was like trying to break into a community that didn't want newcomers and the hurdles that came along with it. Not to mention, how he could get great barrels of bourbon for a steal because no one wanted them. Lastly, we talk about the lightbulb moment of Ocean that has truly become his signature on the industry and if we will ever see Jefferson's Space Aged. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about looking for flavors on white dog You were 28 years old when you started Jefferson's in 1997, tell us about that time. How did you know that there was a bunch of aged whiskey sitting around to buy? What was is like trying to sell whiskey between 1997 and 2002? Did you ever think about closing up shop and quit selling whiskey? Were you welcome to whiskey festivals? Why did Brown Forman and Heaven Hill send you a cease and desist? What hurdles did you have with sourcing early on and how did you get ahead of it? How did you handle the call when it came to buying the 17yr Stitzel-Weller barrels? When did you realize you were running out of 17yr barrels and you had to do something different? Tell us the background on Ocean and the lightbulb moment At any given time, how many barrels do you have at sea or on river? How many voyages are you up to now? When can we expect Jefferson's Space Aged? @jeffersonsbourbon Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Jack Daniel’s Triple Mash. This non-age stated whiskey is 100 proof and $33 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for June 10th 2022. Heaven Hill broke ground on a $135 million distillery called Heaven Hill Springs Distillery, Wilderness Trail announces the release of first 8-year bourbon, Playboy is releasing their first bourbon called Rare Hare 1953 Anniversary EditionShow Notes: Heaven Hill broke ground on a $135 million distillery called Heaven Hill Springs Distillery Four Roses Bourbon will investing $23M in new warehouses Bulleit vs Redemption Rye lawsuit gets a verdict Maker’s® 46 announces partnership with flavor company Spiceology Edible QR codes could authenticate whiskey Booker’s Batch 2022-01 released called “Ronnie’s Batch” Frey Ranch Distillery releases a limited-edition Single Barrel Rye Wyoming Whiskey announces release of limited edition National Parks No. 2 Cascade Moon 15 Year Old Barrel Proof Woodford Reserve releases new Distillery Series bottle, Toasted Oak Oat Grain Playboy releases Rare Hare 1953 Anniversary Edition @heavenhilldistillery @bulleit @bulleitwhiskey @fourrosesbourbon @makersmark @freyranchdistillery @wyomingwhiskey @cascadehollowdistillingco @woodfordreserve @playboy Support this podcast on Patreon

Many of us have a passion for bourbon but I'm not sure we think to ourselves, "I want to run my own liquor store." Our guest today took that leap. Luke Castle makes his return to the show but not to talk about being a bourbon enthusiast but to talk about his new endeavor taking ownership of Ace Spirits, it's a retail shop in Minnesota who you may have heard about from a prior guest when we talked about moving volume with shipping. Luke puts it out there for those wanting to learn about the business and answers the questions many of us want to know as bourbon consumers such as distributors, barrel picks, allocation, and figuring out what determines a best customer. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about XYZ You were back on Episode 166, but tell folks how you got into bourbon. What made you want to leap into the business after being an enthusiast? What did you want to change to make it your version of Ace Spirits? What's the currently landscape for direct to consumer in Minnesota? What would direct to consumer mean to you as a retailer if it opened up or shut down completely? Are you starting to see the decrease of allocated barrel picks happen? What are the new brands people are getting excited about? Do you prefer a small or large distributer to buy from? Do distributors and brand reps just show up randomly to try and push stuff? What do you find the most challenging aspect of owning a liquor store that you didn't know about? What is your method for selling allocated bourbon? Are you figuring out your best customers through a rewards program? What is your method for growth to find new customers? @acespirits Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Sunday's Finest Gold Fashioned. This non-age stated ready to drink cocktail is 84.4 proof and $150 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for June 3rd 2022. The TTB proposes removing all standard bottle sizes for spirits, A new Guinness Book of World Records has been set for the largest bottle of whisky ever sold, J. Rieger & Co. recently released its first bottled-in-bond straight bourbon whiskey.Show Notes: TTB proposes removing all standard bottle sizes for spirits Frazier Museum in downtown Louisville is bringing back Michter's Speakeasy New Guinness Book of World Records has been set for the largest bottle of whisky ever sold - The Intrepid Tarnished Truth launched new barrel pick experience Mashed "The Simple Hack That Will Take Cheap Bourbon To The Next Level" Next Century Spirits has launched Bear Fight American Single Malt Whiskey Victor George Spirits launches Fort Mosé 1738 Chattanooga Whiskey releases their Bottled in Bond Vintage Series: Spring 2018 Vintage J. Rieger & Co. releases its first bottled-in-bond straight bourbon whiskey @frazierhistorymuseum @usmacallan @the_macallan @tarnishedtruth @mashedfood @thisismashed @nextcenturyspirits @vgvodka @chattwhiskey @jriegerco Support this podcast on Patreon

We are skipping the roundtable this month because of Memorial Day timing so I wanted to bring another great session that we had at our Whiskey From Home event. I'm joined by David Jennings of RareBird101, Caroline Paulus of The Bourbon Review and Justin's House of Bourbon, and Pops from Bourbon & Banter as we talk about the secret to finding great bourbon, but at the same time, what are the fatal flaws people make when hunting. This was streamed to over 50k people and if you want to watch all the replays just head over to whiskeyfromhome.com. Show Notes: What is the current state of affair for hunting limited edition bourbons? Is this a good time to be hunting rare bourbon? Are single barrel selections today's unicorn? Does it take good friends and connections? What are good options on how you can find really good whiskey today? Are you looking for off-profile or something that will sell for single barrels? What are the cardinal sins of hunting bourbon? @rarebird101 @houseofbourbonlex @houseofbourbonlou @misswhiskeyhistorian @bourbonbanter Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Westward American Single Malt Cask Strength Whiskey. This non-age stated whiskey is 125 proof and $100 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for May 27th 2022. Spotify accidentally advertises Wild Turkey on every podcast in a bad way, Jim Beam launches Hardin's Creek, and Dixon Dedman announces his highly anticipated next creation 2XO.Show Notes: Spotify accidentally advertises Wild Turkey on every podcast and it backfires in a bad way Jim Beam announces the global launch of Welcome Sessions with Muse Florida Craft Spirits Association launches The Florida Distillery Trail Jim Beam is launching a new line extension called Hardin's Creek Barrell Craft Spirits will introduce BCS Gold Label Seagrass Balcones Distilling announces Big Baby 2022 Cedar Ridge Distillery is set to release a commemorative label on its Iowa Bourbon Milam & Greene Whiskey second release of The Castle Hill Series Straight Bourbon Whiskey Sagamore Spirit announces the national launch of its ready-to-drink canned craft cocktails Smooth Ambler is launching Founders’ Cask Strength Series Bourbon Rabbit Hole presents Nevallier Founder's Collection Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in French Oak Dixon Dedman announces his highly anticipated next creation, 2XO Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey @wildturkey @spotify @jimbeamofficial @floridacraftspirits @barrellbourbon @balconesdistilling @cedarridgeiowa @milamandgreenewhiskey @sagamorespirit @rabbithole @dixon_dedman Support this podcast on Patreon

Gone are the days of paying for billboards, newspaper, and bench ads and bus stop. Everyone has the capability to access a world of information right in the palm of their hand. If you're like me, you're checking your email 50 times a day and getting hit with notifications across multiple social platforms and other apps that demand your attention. But as a bourbon brand, how do you capitalize on the digital space? Brandon Smith joins the show to talk about how he is building a digital strategy at Bardstown Bourbon Co. We talk about how to gather data and develop A/B testing to figure out which digital ads work. But we also talk about platforms and influencer engagement to encompass the realm of digital trends. So if you are a bourbon brand, here's your chance to take a few notes. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about why rye whiskey labels are green Talk about your introduction into whiskey and led you into growing a popular instagram account @thedailydram Did you take on a big career change to get into bourbon? What was Bardstown Bourbon Co's vision for a digital strategy? How do you create a story for your brand if you're a new entrant into the market? How are you turn a story into a digital asset? How did you examine the data to determine who is tied to your brand? What have you found to be successful as engaging content? How do you decide how to follow a trend? How long do you have to react to a trend before it becomes stale? Is there more value in someone else creating content vs being done by the brand? Where do you place your bets with influencers based on followers? How do you measure success for a digital campaign? @bardstownbourbonco Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Dexter Three Wood Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This non-age stated bourbon is 100.6 proof and $50 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

**EXCLUSIVE** It's This Week in Bourbon for May 20th 2022. Evan Williams Single Barrel is being removed nationally and we've got an exclusive with Heaven Hill spokesperson, Josh Hafer, Freddie Noe has been given the title of 8th generation Master Distiller, $150k in stolen bourbon has been recovered and thieves have been arrested. Show Notes: **EXCLUSIVE** Evan Williams Single Barrel is being removed from national markets, made KY-only release. Joined by Heaven Hill spokesperson Josh Hafer Freddie Noe has been given the title of 8th generation master distiller Celebrate National Bourbon Day in the Bourbon Capital of the World June 9-12, 2022 Angel’s Envy $8.2M Expansion Evan Williams Bourbon announced the 2022 class of veterans selected as American-Made Heroes Beverage Information & Insight Group on Whiskey Growth Elijah Craig's new multi-year partnership with PGA TOUR golfer, Talor Gooch $150k in stolen bourbon has been recovered and thieves have been arrested Lost Lantern releases 7 single barrels Budverse Legends: Dwyane Wade x Budweiser Zero Edition NFTs @evanwilliamsbourbon @heavenhill @kybourbonfest @beamgeneration8 @jimbeamofficial @angelsenvy @elijahcraig @lostlanternwhiskey @budweiser Support this podcast on Patreon

We get lots of random emails. Most of the time it's recommendations for visiting kentucky, but if you are going to come just make sure you check out our Yelp list for of our recommendations. But every once in a while we get questions where people need our advice. This could be from brands or just individuals out there wanting to break into the industry. So I thought, how great would it be to have an episode where we give free consultation advice? In this episode we give our advice on sourcing, blending, and social media strategies. So stay tuned as you get to hear the Bourbon Pursuit team answer your questions about the whiskey business. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about experimenting with stainless steel barrels and staves Phil Brandon of Rocktown: I've been distilling for 12 years, and won major awards for my bourbon, and sell all we make. Should I buy more stills to expand production or source new make from Kentucky distilleries? Jason Miller: I am looking at blending, and creating a business based on blending. What are some of the beginning steps in this process? @BarrelProofMarketing : What advice would you give to a new brand on how to build a social media following? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Puncher's Chance The D12tance Bourbon. This 12 year old bourbon is 96 proof and $120 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for May 13th 2022. Kentucky Bourbon Festival Tickets Go on sale, Longbranch and McConaughey launch the Wonder What If Campaign, Goose Island Bourbon County Stout Enters the NFT space.Show Notes: Kentucky Bourbon Festival Tickets are now on sale Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits has signed a four-year distribution agreement with Beam Suntory California Senate Bill 620 makes big changes to DTC language North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission cracks down on illegal shipments Liberty Pole Spirits will build a new distillery campus Longbranch and McConaughey launch the Wonder What If Campaign Maria Pearman CPA has written a new book called Distillery Finance Chicken Cock's new limited-edition release of Island Rooster Rum Barrel Rye. Traverse City Whiskey Co. announces American Lakeside Peach Whiskey Balcones Distilling and ZZ Top re-release Tres Hombres Westward Whiskey releases Westward American Single Malt Elements: High Desert to Klamath Basin Brad Paisley launches American Highway Reserve Route 2 Goose Island Bourbon County Stout Enters the NFT space @kybourbonfest @kybourbonfestival @visitbardstown @sgwinespirits @beamsuntory @libertypolespirits @longbranchbourbon @officialmcconaughey @chickencockwhiskey @tcwhiskey @balconesdistilling @westwardwhiskey @bradpaisley @americanhighwayreserve @gooseisland Support this podcast on Patreon

When you think of Coors, you are probably like me and you get the image of the silver bullet and the cold blue mountains on the side of the can. Or perhaps you know Molson-Coors as one of the top beverage brands in the world. But you most certainly didn't think of Coors as a whiskey company, until now. David Coors joins the show to talk about the family business and going from a just beer company into a full beverage enterprise. David has a deep connection with whiskey that spans back to his childhood and he is spearheading the next phase of company expansion by releasing their first ever collaboration whiskey, along with Bardstown Bourbon Co, called Five Trail. Listen to David's story and how Coors is learning what it's like to get into the whiskey business. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about answering questions on industry news vs people's thoughts Talk about your involvement with the family business and when you got into it How has Molson-Coors grown over the recent decade? At what point did you realize your name carries weight? When did Coors diversify away from Banquet into other beers? Why did your dad try to kill Blue Moon? What internships did you have at the brewery? What made Coors Banquet go to the stubby bottle? Was Cobra Kai a paid placement or organic? What lessons is failed marketing that you can apply to today? Did you have a hand in the seltzer craze hit? So what made you want to dive into whiskey? Did you have to sell your dad on venturing into whiskey? How did you figure out what kind of whiskey to do? Can you scale and sustain the malt part of the blend? How did you come to your proof point? What are those hard lessons you've learned by entering the whiskey business? Can your R&D team figure out how to make the barrel hoops blue when it's ready? Do you yourselves going even further into the whiskey category? What trends in the beverage alcohol space do you see happening? What is your cannabis strategy? @fivetrail @molsoncoors Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Hard Truth Sweet Mash Rye Whiskey. This non-age stated rye is 115.2 proof and $70 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for May 6th 2022. A new state of the art $72M contract distillation facility will be built in Elizabethtown, KY, Buffalo Trace is fighting backlash from local residents of Peak's Mill as bourbon warehouse expansion begins, and Jack Daniel's introduces Jack Daniel’s Bonded Tennessee Whiskey and Jack Daniel’s Triple Mash Blended Straight WhiskeyShow Notes: David Mandell and John Hargrove are building a new state of the art 72M contract distillation facility will be built in Elizabethtown, KY Casey Jones Distillery will expand operations with a $1.9 million project New proposals to establish a standard of identity for American Single Malt Whiskey Buffalo Trace is fighting backlash from local residents of Peak's Mill as bourbon warehouse expansion begins Shake Shack has unveiled its latest partnership, and it's with Maker's Mark “The Real Housewives of New York City,” Bluestone Manor Bourbon Blackened American Whiskey has announced the release of Rye the Lightning Jeptha Creed Distillery is Re-Releases 90% Bloody Butcher Corn Straight Bourbon Whiskey New Riff Sherry Finish 100% Malted Rye Whiskey, Barrel Proof and Without Chill Filtration and aged for at least six years Blue Run Spirits announces Blue Run “Reflection I” Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Jack Daniel's introduces Jack Daniel’s Bonded Tennessee Whiskey and Jack Daniel’s Triple Mash Blended Straight Whiskey @mandelldavid @johnny.@whiskey @caseyjonesdistillery @buffalotracedistillery @shakeshack @makersmark @bluestonemanor_bourbon @blackenedamericanwhiskey @jepthacreed @newriff @bluerunspirits @jackdaniels_us Support this podcast on Patreon

A few weeks ago on TWiB we talked about Barton 1792 closing the doors for tours indefinitely, but now we get to speculate. Was this because Sazerac feels they can't make it stand up to the current standard people expect of tours? Or was it a way to put all their eggs into turning the distillery into a workhorse for it brands? The Virginia ABC moved to a new randomized system for their allocated bourbon releases. We examine what they got right and what they got wrong. Lastly, we know people are starting to build their own bourbon bars, but what's something you need for your bar that is not bourbon? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about bourbon on social media What do we feel motivated Sazerac to stop offering tours at Barton 1792? What did the Virginia ABC get right and wrong with the new randomized allocated bourbon drops? What is one bar essential you need that isn't bourbon? @bourbonr @breakingbourbon @sippn_corn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Heaven's Door Bootleg Volume 3. This 13 year old bourbon is 121.2 proof and $545 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for April 29th 2022. Heaven Hill will build a new $135M distillery in Bardstown, the American Craft Spirits Association elects an all female board of directors, and Chattanooga Whiskey announces its Founder’s 10th Anniversary Blend.Show Notes: Heaven Hill will build a new $135M distillery in Bardstown American Craft Spirits Association elects an all female board of directors Horse Soldier Bourbon will open a smart-casual dining and cocktail restaurant in Somerset KY The Kentucky Turtle Derby returns this year on the first Saturday in May Aaron Goldfarb of Vinepair tracked down an artists who uses Van Winkle bottles as a canvas RStreet reveals new data on underage drinking not correlated to direct to consumer shipments Amazon introduces "Just Walk Out" technology for wine stores Green River Distilling Co. has announced a partnership with the Ohio River Foundation Bulleit Frontier Whiskey has met its goal of planting one million trees by 2025 Popular clothing brand Troll Co. has launched its first bourbon, Five Nine Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Woodford Reserve introduces its first-ever ‘Derby In A Box’ PATRÓN Tequila and John Geiger, have teamed up to launch limited-edition GF-01 sneakers @heavenhilldistillery @craftspiritsus @horsesoldierbourbon @woodfordreserve @aarongoldfarb @vinepair @greenriverdistilling @bulleit @bulleitwhiskey @trollcoclothing @patron @johngeiger_ Support this podcast on Patreon

Have you heard us talk about shipping bourbon on the show before? Of course you have. Heck, I know I sound like a broken record as we try to become more stewards for reform in this space by talking about it almost every week. But this time you get to hear from an Expert. Alex Koral is the Regulatory General Counsel for Sovos ShipCompliant, a pioneer in the space of alcohol beverage delivery and making sure companies stay compliant since every state is different. We ask why wine gets a lot more slack than spirits when it comes to shipping and what is keeping that back. We also get his opinion on the supreme court rulings over the past few years as it relates to the commerce clause and why change is so reluctant and slow. As you can guess, there's a lot of red tape and lobbyists involved but the good news is that we are seeing incremental positive change. And Alex gives us a few tips on what we can all do to make change happen at our local level. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about how long a bourbon can last in a small jar How did you get into the world of spirits shipping? Was the three tier system implemented after prohibition? What is working in the current three-tier model that should be kept? What does SOVOS and ShipCompliant do for producers? Why does wine get a pass when it comes to these laws? What percentage of sales does a winery do with direct to consumer? Why do distributors and wine industry players not want to have spirit shipping equality? Do you find it interesting that conservative states that want an open and free market like TX and TN but still hang on to these archaic ideas? Are states that don't want shipping getting lobbied too much? Why didn't the TN Supreme Court case have a wider and quicker effect for domestic shipping? How disruptive could Amazon be to all this? How are these law proposals being presented to decision makers? Is the law of mandating selling through a distributor stifling growth? @shipcompliant Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Blue Run High Rye Bourbon (Fall 2021). This non-age stated bourbon is 111 proof and $90 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for April 22nd 2022. The Virginia ABC moves to a new randomized and confusing system for allocated bourbon, Independent Stave Company to open $30 million mill in Arkansas, and Orphan Barrel announces the release of Fable & Folly. Show Notes: The rumor mill says that Evan Williams single barrel is being pulled off shelves and will be KY exclusive Breaking Bourbon talked about the whiskey tax The Virginia ABC moves to a new randomized and confusing system for allocated bourbon Independent Stave Company to open $30 million mill in Arkansas American Airlines reinstates drinks on airlines San Diego State University student David Elizondo launches First Light coffee whiskey 15 STARS makes its debut on the whiskey market this month Kentucky Senator’s third Bourbon offering, the John G. Carlisle Release, is hitting shelves this summer Orphan Barrel Whiskey Distilling Co. introduces Fable & Folly Finest Quality Whiskey Aged 14 Years @evanwilliamsbourbon @heavenhill @breakingbourbon @abc_va @independanystavecompany @americanair @sandiegostateuniversity @15starsbourbon @kentuckysenatorbourbon @orphanbarrel Support this podcast on Patreon

There's nothing better than getting a fan of the show back on the program... but that fan also happens to be a master distiller at one of the most recognizable names in the kentucky distilling industry. Danny Kahn join us once again to talk about a few topics that we're all interested in hearing about. We cover the 1792 barrel program, then we take a hard left turn talking about yeast for a bit, so if you love the science behind bourbon, make sure to pay attention. and we end up going through a tasting and talking about the 2022 release of Thomas S Moore, the brand Danny is in charge of releasing every year using extra aged barrel finishes. And when we say extra aged, we're not talking aged for 6 months in an additional cask, we're talking years! Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks taking a break from bourbon for a couple months How many barrels are allocated to the 1792 barrel program? How many barrels are going towards private label partners? If you can't meet demand, how much more do you need to produce? Are you still using the same yeast from the 60's? Is it intentional to pick a yeast based on the flavor it will produce? What is the percentage impact of yeast on flavor? Tell us a bit of history of Thomas S Moore? Where in the ricks are these barrels resting? What kind of sherry casks were you using in this release? What barrels are next? @barton1792 Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Chicken Cock Cotton Club Canadian Rye Whiskey. This 20 year old rye is 100 proof and $500 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for April 15th 2022. Eboni Major, former blender at Bulleit is now suing Diageo, Barton 1792 Distillery suspends all tours, and Sweetens Cove launches Kennessee.Show Notes: San Francisco World Spirits Competition Results are in. Here's what I discovered Eboni Major, former blender at Bulleit is now suing Diageo Bardstown Bourbon Company announces a $28.7 million investment Bourbon At Belmont, a bourbon tasting event and Kentucky Derby celebration Mashed, conducted a survey and asked which brand of bourbon was the worst The most universally-loved smell in the world Bourbon was the star performer at Hart's Auction of Finest & Rarest Spirits Augusta Distillery LLC is expanding its operations in Bracken County New Book: DOCTORS AND DISTILLERS: The Remarkable Medicinal History of Beer, Wine, Spirits, and Cocktails The Woodford Reserve $1,000 Mint Julep Barton 1792 Distillery suspends all tours WhistlePig Whiskey and Barstool Sports have teamed up to launch the new single barrel Legends Series Wilderness Trail yellow label wheated Bourbon now is a small batch instead of a single barrel Sweetens Cove launches Kennessee Old Elk Distillery will release of two more expressions of Master Distiller Greg Metze’s Master’s Blend Series: Old Elk Four Grain and Old Elk Double Wheat Ross & Squibb Distillery announced the launch of Rossville Union 2022 Barrel Proof Blood Oath Pact 8 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in Calvados casks Laws Whiskey House recently announced the 2022 releases of their Bottled in Bond Four Grain Bourbon AND San Luis Valley Rye KURVBALL, The Original Barbecue Whiskey Absolut is extending the festival experience into the metaverse with Absolut.Land @majorinwhiskey @diageo @bardstownbourbonco @mashedfood @augustakydistillery @woodfordreserve @barton1792 @whistlepigwhiskey @wildernesstraildistillery @sweetenscovespirits @oldelkbourbon @bloodoathbourbon @luxrowdistillers @lawswhiskey @absolutvodka @barstoolsports Support this podcast on Patreon

You can't run away from it... NFTs have now become the buzzword of 2022. Non-fungible tokens, or better known as NFTs was a prediction of mine at the end of 2021 but moreso looking into 2023. I didn't really think they would catch on this quickly and be adopted by so many in the whiskey industry. Now we are seeing the largest brands dip their toes into the water but do you understand what all this means? Zach Weakland is not only a brewer and a distiller but he's also been dabbling in crypto for a few years and now runs a site called LiquidCraft.io. We talk at the very lowest level about what is a NFT and how that relates to bottle sales and trading. And the biggest reason we can see as to why NFTs and bourbon make sense from an allocated bourbon perspective is that it may just legitimize the secondary market. We dive more into experience-based NFTs that are useful for distilleries and what could happen if this scales to tens or hundreds of thousands of bottles that go into a NFT marketplace. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks military vets entering the spirits world Talk first about how you get into the spirits space and then intro crypto Did you have a still in your backyard which is how you learned how to distill? What products do you offer and where are your distributed? Does wormwood actually make you hallucinate or is that fiction? Why did you want to start accepting crypto for your business? Explain at the most simple level, what is a NFT? Does it replace the dollar bill? If I own a NFT do I have the rights to sell it or can I sell it over and over again? How are you taking these NFT concepts and applying it to bourbon? If I buy a NFT that connects to a bottle how is it actually connected? Does the NFT follow the bottle? Can I still trade the NFT after the bottle has been consumed? Does this legitimize the secondary market? What happens if I own 1000 NFTs of bottles, when does this become a storage issue? What if I buy the NFT and I don't turn it in for 10 years? Then do you lose on storage fees? Can I create NFTs for existing bottles or collections? How can experiences be tied to bourbon-based NFTs? Could every bottle from every distillery be minted with a NFT? @craft_liquid Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Woodinville Moscatel Finished Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 100 proof and $70 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

I'm diving into our archives and presenting one of the amazing sessions that we held back in May of 2020 at the first and only Whiskey From Home event. Many people asked if another Whiskey From Home event would ever happen... and I thought long and hard about what it took to make this happen. Whiskey From Home had over 15k people stream it live during the height of COVID and, to be honest, it was a true sense of accomplishment. It was the first large scale virtual whiskey event and it was a true collaboration effort from everyone involved. Here we are a few years later and everyone wants to get back to being in person so that's why WFH was sort of a one and done. However, I want to share with you a session by Brian Haara, you know him as Sipp'n Corn on the roundtable and our resident law expert, as he dives into why E.H. Taylor Despised George T Stagg and more bourbon stories from his book, Bourbon Justice. If you're a bourbon geek like me, you will love this session. You can also watch this and all other sessions that are available on our YouTube page. Show Notes: Get Bourbon Justice on all book store locations! @sippn_corn Support this podcast on Patreon

It's Bourbon Community Roundtable #67 and this time it's all about limited editions. New records are being set for bottles at auction and many of us are thinking twice about opening up bottles. Red Hook went for $47k. The 5L bottle of OFC 1982 went for $60k. With so many LTEs, how do you determine what will make a bottle valuable in the future? Our friends over at Breaking Bourbon had a good email last week that talked about holiday bottles. Kentucky Owl recently released their St. Patrick's Day expression, Barrell Bourbon has New Year, Smokewagon has done a halloween, and Maker's Mark has one for almost everything. Are these gimmicks or are holiday bottles here to stay? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about glassware and books. How do you determine what will make a bottle valuable in the future? Are holiday bottles a gimmick or are they here to stay? @bourbonr @breakingbourbon @sippn_corn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Wyoming Whiskey Small Batch Bourbon. This 5 year old bourbon is 88 proof and $40 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for April 1st 2022. Three of the nation’s leading trade associations create ShipMySpirits coalition, Belle Meade Bourbon is being discontinued, and another Wild Turkey 101 bottle change is coming.Show Notes: KY Senate passes House Bill 500 and has now been signed into law by the governor TTB reminds us that advertising regulations prohibit any health-related statement Stone Brewing won its trademark battle against MillerCoors The World Whisky Awards have been handed out Diageo has sold its Windsor blended Scotch whisky brand Flaviar creates a consultancy and creative studio named The Beverage Bureau New Book: Make it a Double, From Wretched to Wondrous: Tales of One Woman’s Lifelong Discovery of Whisky New Book: The Little Book of Whiskey Cocktails Stave And Thief society now has expanded it's online courses Three of the nation’s leading trade associations create ShipMySpirits coalition Belle Meade Bourbon Is Being Discontinued A$AP Rocky announced his new Canadian whiskey, Mercer + Prince Stoli releases The Wiseman Straight Rye Limestone Branch Distillery is launching Yellowstone Family Recipe Bardstown Bourbon Company releases two new bottlings from their Fusion and Discovery expressions Castle & Key releases their second small batch bourbon Chattanooga is releasing the Founder 10th Anniversary blend Basil Hayden® Subtle Smoke is announced Another year and another Wild Turkey 101 bottle change @stonebrewing @diageo @flaviar_com @craftspiritsus @americandistilling @distilledspiritscouncil @asaprocky @mercerprince @kentuckyowl @stoli @yellowstonebourbon @limestonebranch @bardstownbourbonco @castleandkey @chattwhiskey @basilhayden @wildturkey Support this podcast on Patreon

Welcome back to Part 2 of my interview with Kathleen DiBenedetto. In part 1, Kathleen shared some of her greatest memories with Booker as she learned the business inside and out from him. In part 2, Kathleen talks about her own successes in the industry from going on the road and leading the bourbon tastings herself to eventually have her own batch of Booker's named after her. Kathleen oversaw the brands of Booker's, Baker's, and Knob Creek for many years and we talk about how marketing strategies changed when you enter the digital revolution. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks steel and flasks. Were you there when Booker's began introducing different batch numbers? Do remember when you received a phone call to come create your own batch of Booker's? When you started building brands can you talk about those early marketing tactics? When you were on the road, was there ever a moment of shock? Were you confident when you led your first tastings on the road? Were you still taking care of the Booker's, Baker's, and Knob Creek brands when you get into the digital revolution? What are the next brands people should be looking at? @jimbeamofficial @knobcreek @knobcreekbourbon Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review WH McBrayer Kentucky Straight Bourbon. This 4 year old bourbon is 103.6 proof and $100 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 25th 2022. American whiskey tariffs finally come to an end, Sotheby's broke a new record for American Whiskey at auction fetching US$1.63 million, and Michter’s will be waiting until 2023 to release its 10 Year Bourbon.Show Notes: A fake organization has been passing itself off as the genuine Diageo American whiskey tariffs finally come to an end Woodford Reserve announces a partnership with Formé Millinery Co Ohio's has a "Keeper of a Place" law Ohio man accused of stealing a bottle of bourbon during the assault on the U.S. Capitol Building Michigan has secured more than $100,000 in fines against illegal alcohol shippers Buffalo Trace raises US$280,000 for charity in NFT auction for OFC bottles Sotheby's broke a new record for American Whiskey at auction fetching US$1.63 million What can I purchase here in Kentucky that I cannot find at home? by Veach Michter’s Distillery will be waiting until 2023 to release its 10 Year Bourbon Old Dominick and the Overton Park 9 release a 7-year-old single barrel wheat whiskey Barton 1792 releases the 2022 versions of Thomas S. Moore Heineken launched its first, brand new, virtual beer: Heineken Silver @diageo @diageo_na @woodfordreserve @buffalotrace @buffalotracedistillery @sothebys @blockbar.@eth @michterswhiskey @olddominick @barton1792 @heineken Support this podcast on Patreon

This episode was never intended to be a two-parter. Once I sat down with our guest, I couldn't bring myself to hit the stop button because I wanted to keep hearing the stories she had to tell. Kathleen DiBenedetto is the Sr. Director, Premium Seed Brands but has had a near 30 year career span at Beam Suntory. And one of her first jobs was working alongside Booker Noe. She traveled the country with Booker and learned what it took to market and find audiences for this premium uncut and unfiltered small batch whiskey. She helped the brands of Booker's, Knob Creek, and Bakers grow from its infant stage, this is before Booker's even had a box, to what we all see today. Kathleen shares her fondest memories of working with Booker and the Noe family and how that set her down a path to be inducted into the Bourbon Hall of Fame and also have her own Booker's Batch named after her. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the current whiskey shortage. You've spent 30 years at Beam. What did you do when you first came into the company? How did the interview process go with Booker Noe? How did you build on-site tastings with consumers? Booker didn't like fancy packaging but do you find it weird now that Basil Hayden is upscale packaging? Do you remember what time the Booker's box was introduced? Where was Baker's fitting into the portfolio at this time? Can you recall the price points and how you competed with clear spirits? What was Booker's first impression of Blanton's? Were you there when Booker's began introducing different batch numbers? @jimbeamofficial @knobcreek @knobcreekbourbon Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Michter's Toasted Barrel Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 91.4 proof and $100 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 18th 2022. Bourbon and Straight American whiskeys hit a new high for cases sold for the first time in over 40 years, House Bill 500 passes the Kentucky House, and Castle & Key is releasing their first ever small batch bourbon.Show Notes: Diageo, Brown-Forman and Edrington have suspended sales in Russia The United States will ban imports of Russian alcohol and seafood Bourbon and Straight American whiskeys surpassed 27 million 9-liter cases domestically in 2021 for the first time in over 40 years Kirin will invest about $870M in its healthcare and pharmaceutical businesses over the next three years The whisky market is worth more than US$10 billion in the US on-trade Kentucky Bourbon Festival announces inaugural Bourbon Capital BBQ Challenge & Distillery Invitational with the Kansas City Barbeque Society House Bill 500 passed the Kentucky House and moves on to the Senate Brown-Forman introduces ‘Up or Over’ bottled cocktails Alberta Distillers Ltd announce the introduction of their signature core expression to the U.S. for the first time RD1 Spirits is releasing an exclusive Citrus Bowl edition of Wm. Tarr Kentucky Whiskey Blackwood Distilling Co. has announced the arrival of Blackwood Toasted Bourbon Castle & Key Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey is being released @brownforman @diageo @diageo_na @edringtonamericas @kybourbonfest @albertadistillers @albertapremium @rd1spirits @blackwooddistillingco @castleandkey Support this podcast on Patreon

Many of you are listening to this show and you're starting to build your collection of bourbon. I was in your same shoes years ago and I would come home from the liquor store every week with a new bottle when I wasn't even 10% done with the bottle I bought the previous week. That same process goes on, you learn about limited editions, the hunt really begins, the credit card points really start rolling in, and before you know it you have a bunker of bourbon. I'm joined by Mark Rucker of The Bourbon Life to talk about bunkering and when can there ever be enough. We talk about the upper limits of purchasing, bottle prices, and folks who purchase just for the investment purpose. There's more topics that we dive into such as tactics used by marketing teams to always drive limited releases and how some brands are creating confusion to consumers. But the question remains, will we ever need to stop bunkering bourbon? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about whiskey gift giving. How many bottles do you have in your collection? Can you expense your bourbon purchases as business expenses? At what point do you say you have enough single barrel selections of a certain brand? Is it harder to open the last bottle from a barrel pick you were on? Marriages are supposed to be a 50/50 relationship. Does your better half buy you bottles? Is there something in us that says "is there ever enough to stop"? Is there an upper limit such as maxing out your bar? Is there a problem with people who just want to collect to eventually sell? Do the vast majority of distilleries need to slow down on limited releases? Should people be going crazy for Russell's Reserve 13 year? Does creating more colors of Weller continually feed the animal? What brand does a good job of having a lot of labels but doesn't create confusion? Is this strategy seen as a disservice to the consumer? @thebourbonlife Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review OH Ingram Flagship Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 100 proof and $100 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 11th 2022. House Bill 500 Passes to legitimize the KY barrels selection process, Buffalo Trace OFC 1982 is being released in a 6L bottle in the first ever NFT auction, and Heaven Hill Releases TWO 17 year old bourbons.Show Notes: Pritzker Private Capital acquires Bardstown Bourbon Company House Bill 500 passes to provide clarity in the process of selecting private barrels at Kentucky distilleries Global alcoholic beverage e-commerce market is forecast to reach US$30.5 billion by 203 Maker’s Mark unveils a new Maker’s Mark 46 bottle and design Chris Stapleton releases his own EH Taylor barrel selection to raise funds for charity An incendiary World War II bomb was found on the Buffalo Trace property Brown-Forman Corporation reported financial results for its third quarter The Evan Williams American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund application is now open Bulleit enters the RTD space with Bulleit Crafted Cocktails Chattanooga Whiskey’s 2022 Single Barrel picks will be broadly distributed as a mix-pack Rod & Hammer’s SLO Stills whiskey that’s Cut With The Pacific RTD Jack Daniel’s Canned Cocktails series are ready to hit shelves nationwide The second batch of Blue Run High Rye Bourbon is being released Michter’s US*1 Barrel Strength Rye is set to be released Barrell Bourbon is releasing Batch 032 Buffalo Trace OFC 1982 is being released in a 6L bottle in the first ever NFT auction Spring 2022 edition of Old Fitzgerald will be 17 years old Heaven Hill Heritage Collection 17-Year-Old Barrel Proof new line McCormick & Co. Inc. is launching Old Bay vodka @bardstownbourbonco @makersmark @ehtaylorbourbon @buffalotrace @buffalotracedistillery @chrisstapleton @brownforman @evanwillamsbourbon @bulleit @chattwhiskey @slostills @jackdaniels_us @bluerunspirits @michterswhiskey @barrellbourbon @heavenhilldistillery @oldbay_seasoning @mcclintockdistilling Support this podcast on Patreon

It's Bourbon Community Roundtable #66 and here's what we have on the topic list for today! Pritzker Private Capital Acquires Bardstown Bourbon Company. What does that mean for the pioneer of hospitality in Bardstown? As bourbon capital spending increases and barrel shortage is on the horizon, can cooperages keep up? Raw materials, shipping, and cost to market is increasing. Beam has already announced price hikes to its premium bourbon brands like Booker's and Knob Creek. How long should bourbon companies keep absorbing these costs and should we expect prices to go up across the board? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about blind tastings. Pritzker Private Capital Acquires Bardstown Bourbon Company. What does that mean for the pioneer of hospitality in Bardstown? As bourbon capital spending increases and barrel shortage is on the horizon, can cooperages keep up? Raw materials, shipping, and cost to market is increasing. How long should bourbon companies keep absorbing these costs and should we expect prices to go up? @bourbonr @breakingbourbon @sippn_corn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Elvis Tiger Man Whiskey from Grain and Barrel Spirits. This 2.5 year old whiskey is 90 proof and $50 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 4th 2022. Russian-made alcohol is the latest target in the growing backlash, Kentucky Cooperage announces a $4.1M expansion, and Woodford Reserve releases their 2022 Kentucky Derby bottleShow Notes: Russian-made alcohol is the latest target in the growing backlash MGP Ingredients Reports Record Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2021 Results Kentucky Cooperage announces a $4.1M expansion Buzzard’s Roost Whiskey and Americana singer/songwriter Ryan Necci announce their collaboration Diageo has invested $110 million in expanding their Diageo Lincolnway RTD facility Nine distilleries have formed the Texas Whiskey Trail Bourbon barrels travel the Rimrocker Trail from Swamp Fox Distillery Berkshire Mountain Distillers recently released three new whiskeys distilled from beer Copperworks American Single Malt Whiskey announces Release 041 Woodford Reserve releases their 2022 Kentucky Derby bottle Sagamore Spirit releases their Reserve Series Rum Cask Finish Rye Whiskey @independentstavecompany @buzzardsroostwhiskey @buffalogospel @diageo @diageo_na @texaswhiskeytrail @swampfoxspirits @berkshiremtdist @copperworksdist @woodfordreserve @kentuckyderby @sagamorespirit Support this podcast on Patreon

We're always looking for veterans of the bourbon industry to bring on the show to talk about their story and career growth. Tawnie Gootee has been at Heaven Hill for nearly 30 years and has done it all. I mean, they used to have to rotate workers to give tours when a small group of people would show up. But Tawnie has excelled in her career and worked with Mike Sonne and other Heaven Hill elites to become one of the most respected palates in the industry and she gives us the low down on the quality control process at Heaven Hill. This episode is also very significant because this year marks the 25th anniversary of the 1996 fire at Heaven Hill. Tawnie remembers the first phone calls and what it was like in the days following the aftermath. It's a true testament to how the bourbon industry really works together. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the taste of bourbon. Tell us a little bit about your background and how you ended up at Heaven Hill. What was the tour experience like 30 years ago? How did you hone your tasting skills? What happens when you find a barrel that's not acceptable? Explain what reading the tank means. How often do you get complaints? How long do you keep samples? Talk about cork taint. What's your high end inspection? Talk about the process of creating limited edition products. Can you tell us about the fire of 1996? @heavenhilldistillery Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C921. This 12 year old bourbon is 120.2 proof and $70 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for Febuary 25th 2022. MGP has begun a $12 million barrel warehouse expansion, Beam Suntory's global net sales were up and the company is looking at raising prices, and Old Forester releases the third installment of The 117 Series – 1910 Extra OldShow Notes: Beer companies are poised for steep price hikes of barley due to the Russia-Ukraine crisis MGP announced it has begun a $12 million barrel warehouse expansion Freeland Spirits is set to collaborate with the new Bourbon Women Foundation Beam Suntory's global net sales were up and the company is looking at raising prices Wild Turkey delivered 10.9% growth last year, boosted by international markets TX® Whiskey launches a new campaign starring award-winning actor and producer, Scoot McNairy Party Horses announced today Maker's Mark® will be its official bourbon partner for 2022 /r/dcwhiskey reddit theorizes that Virginia ABC stores are leaking information to specific individuals Old Forester releases the third installment of The 117 Series – 1910 Extra Old The Kentucky Derby Festival Evan Williams Single Barrel Bourbon is released Crown Royal releases a new limited edition Whisky Lemonade RTD Lost Ash Ridge Farm in Waddy KY, has unveiled Southern Sweet Kentucky Bourbon flavored sausage @mgpingredientscollab @freelandspirits @bourbonwomen @beamsuntory @wildturkey @txwhiskey @makersmark @partyhorses @oldforester @evanwilliamsbourbon @kyderbyfestival @crownroyal Support this podcast on Patreon

Every few months we find a guest that scratches that itch when we want to get into the science of bourbon, and today we're talking about wood. Everyone has a different answer when it comes to the question of "how much influence does the barrel have on the whiskey?". Is it 20%? 90%? 70%? Our guest today is going to help us get closer to finding that magic number. Andrew Wiehebrink is the Director of Spirit Research and Innovation at Independent Stave Company and his job is to get real deep and nerdy into wood and the millions of permutations you can have that affects the taste of your whiskey. We ask all the questions you want to know about the effects of char levels, toasting, stave seasoning, and storage on a hypothetical and scientific level. His role at ISC has him working on multi-year experiments with wood varietals and aging conditions to see what hasn't been discovered yet. He has worked directly with Maker's Mark to create the finishing staves used in their private barrel program and we try to figure out why they would even consider getting rid of the mocha stave. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about union strikes. Talk about your background and journey Why seek out wood science vs mechanical engineering with distillation? What was oak R&D like 5 years ago? What was the wine industry doing to start making the bourbon industry look at alternatives to just Char 4? What made Char 3 or 4 the gold standard? What's the highest char level you've tested? Was there any bookkeeping to see what barrel experimentation has been done through ISC's history? What are your key metrics you're trying to hit? Flavor? Faster aging? When you start an experiment do you have a hypothesis or just wait for data? Any experiments when it comes to sustainability? Any experiments with the same oak grown in different locations? What is the average age of a harvested oak tree? How does stave seasoning play a role in this process? Talk about the process of figuring out the stave profiles at Maker's Mark What do you think about them getting rid of the mocha stave? Do you have a special day set aside for tasting experiments? Is it easier to work with Maker's Mark because they have a more consistent product? When you use a toasted barrel once, is its lifespan over? Can you name one experiment that was a mistake? Do you feel that consumers take the barrel for granted? Say I have bad distillate, what barrels can you suggest? Has a customer ever asked you for something so off-the-wall that you had to decline them? Are mizunara cask trends here to stay? @independantstavecompany Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review The Wiseman from Kentucky Owl. This non-age stated bourbon is 90.8 proof and $60 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for Febuary 18th 2022. Two new pieces of legislature have been introduced to save barrel picks, Louisville Slugger Museum is getting into bourbon tourism, and Portland's Eastside Distilling will release its first ever Maraschino Cherry Whiskey.Show Notes: Icons of American Whiskey Awards Apax Funds has acquired a controlling stake in Ole Smoky Distillery The International Journal of Drug Policy suggests that "alcohol may fall down the policy agenda" Two new pieces of legislature have been introduced to save barrel picks The company who operates Louisville Slugger is opening Barrels and Billets Eastside Distilling will release a Luxardo Maraschino Cherry Whiskey @americanwhiskeymag @olesmokey @fredminnick @slugger_museum @sluggernation @barrelsandbillets @eastsidedistilling @luxardousa @luxardoofficial Support this podcast on Patreon

Refills, counterfeits, and bogus bourbon. It's the unfortunate reality that we live in right now. Only until very recently have we seen distilleries start taking a more aggressive approach thwarting some of these efforts. But there is one individual who has stepped up to be known as THE person in the community when it comes to hunting down scammers and that's Adam Herz. Adam calls himself a whiskey watchdog and got into the habit of tracking down fakes a few years ago. He works with a team of people to find where bottles, foils, and sales originated to bring justice to the bourbon world. Adam has been featured on Inside Edition and was responsible for tracking down employees at Buffalo Trace who were involved a counterfeit ring at one point. He gives us some insight into his process and even some red flags to look for when you are wanting to buy a highly desirable bottle. Here's another fun fact about Adam, he is the creator of the American Pie film series. What bourbon would you pair with apple pie? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about dusty bottle ages. When did you see the rise of counterfeit bottles start making their way to market? Can you talk about your old hunting days? What does FOAF'ing mean? Can you give some insight and history into creating the American Pie series? Now that you're an adult, what bourbon would you pair with apple pie? How did you find a need in the market for someone to validate bottles? What drives you to be "the person" who uncovers these stories? How do you start gathering evidence and then presenting the facts? Are you keeping a database of Pappy bottles sold on eBay? What are some red flags when people are looking for fakes? Is it easier to fake a new or older bottle? Have you ever thought about involving law enforcement? Talk about how you broke up a Pappy Van Winkle counterfeit ring that led back to an employee at Buffalo Trace Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Monk's Road Bourbon from Log Still Distillery. This 6 year old bourbon is 100 proof and $80 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for Febuary 11th 2022. The TTB has published part 2 of it's modernization plan for labels, The US Treasury releases it's report on "PROMOTING COMPETITION IN THE ECONOMY" and it's big news for booze, Green River launches its flagship Green River Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.Show Notes: BIG GOVERNMENT RELATED EPISODE Bill to privatize Mississippi wine, spirits distribution passes Mississippi House Distilled Spirits Council annual economic briefing spirits sales volumes are up 12% and legislative wins The TTB has published part 2 of it's modernization plan for labels and it means changes for bourbon Frazier History Museum's Unfiltered Truth Collection Blue Run Spirits announceS the hiring of Shaylyn Gammon as its first Whiskey Director Puncher’s Chance® Bourbon is now the official spirits partner of The Professional Fighters League The US Treasury releases it's report on "PROMOTING COMPETITION IN THE ECONOMY" and it's big news for booze Custom Fireball-inspired tattoo designs to cover your inked regrets Ten to One and Uncle Nearest collaborate on a new rum release American punk rock band Beartooth recently released a rye whiskey Hercules Mulligan Rum & Rye Watershed Eaves Cask Strength Bourbon Angel's Envy is releasing another cellar collection Bardstown Bourbon Company’s new release in partnership with Founders Brewing Green River launches its flagship Green River Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey @distilledspiritscouncil @frazierhistorymuseum @bluerunspirits @puncherschancebourbon @fireballwhisky @tentoonerum @uncleanearest @beartoothband @watersheddistillery @eavesblind @mariannebmd @angelsenvy @bardstownbourbonco @greenriverdistillingco Support this podcast on Patreon

It's Bourbon Community Roundtable #65 and here's what we have on the topic list for today! Heaven Hill acquires Samson & Surrey, but what is the motive and what does that mean for brands like FEW and Widow Jane? Wes Henderson announced his retirement from Angel's Envy. Fred Noe is retiring soon. Then Eddie will likely retire when Jimmy isn't around. So what happens when the face of a brand leaves? There has been a huge surge of updates to distilleries in the past year. So now what is your top place to recommend visitors when they visit Kentucky? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about regaining your sense of taste and smell after being sick. Heaven Hill Acquisitions. What does this mean and who could be next? Wes Henderson announced his retirement from Angel's Envy. So what happens when the face of a brand leaves? There has been a huge surge of updates to distilleries in the past year. So now what is the top place you recommend visitors going to on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail? Thanks to @bourbonr and @breakingbourbon for joining. @bourbonr @breakingbourbon @sippn_corn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Widow Jane Lucky Thirteen. This 13 year old bourbon is 93 proof and $100 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for Febuary 4th 2022. Heaven Hill Acquires Widow Jane and FEW Spirits, Bulleit Doesn't Have Enough Bottles, Rabbit Hole Unveils Starlino Rye WhiskeyShow Notes: Apologies from me for not knowing how to pronounce Islay Heaven Hill has acquires Widow Jane and FEW Spirits Wes Henderson is retiring from Angel's Envy Kentucky Bourbon Trail releases tourism numbers for 2021 Nearest & Jack Advancement Initiative Business Incubation Program Diageo said demand is depleting stocks of Crown Royal, Lagavulin, and Don Julio Wine-searchers top searched bourbons of 2021 Do Spirits Need to Be Sustainable to Sell? A bracelet that tells you when you're drinking too much alcohol Woodford Reserve announces release of Double Double Oaked Uncle Nearest releases its own distilled whiskey Rabbit Hole unveiled the Distillery Series, Starlino rye whiskey Kentucky Owl announces the St. Patrick’s Limited Edition Pepsi and Boston Beer Company announce Hard Mountain Dew Baja Blast A lesson on yeast from Dr. Pat Heist. @heavenhillbrands @widow_jane @fewspirits @weshendersonky @angelsenvy @kentuckybourbontrail @unclenearest @jackdaniels_us @crownroyal @lagavulinwhisky @donjuliotequila @winesearcher @sevenfiftydaily @woodfordreserve @rabbithole @kentuckyowl @dr_pat_heist @pepsi @mountaindew @hardmountaindew Support this podcast on Patreon

The contributions of African Americans in the distilling industry has largely gone unnoticed and unrecognized for a long period of time. The story of Uncle Nearest put mainstream media attention and a spotlight on the issue. But there is one person who spends her time on capturing stories and diving into distillery archives to discover more African American influence on whiskey. Erin Wiggins Gilliam is an Associate Professor Of History at Kentucky State University and she sits down with me to talk about some of her findings. She gives an amazing amount of insight into record keeping that documented how slaves that knew how to distill were quite valuable. Erin also spends her time interviewing older generations of people who worked at distilleries in Kentucky and nearby states to document the culture and the roles African Americans held at distilleries through recent periods of time. She is always on the hunt for the next great story so if you have a relative or a family connection, reach out to Erin so she can continue her quest. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about family members buying bottles. How do you keep on losing so many AirPods? What led you into academia? What got you into spirits? Was Buffalo Trace the first distillery to let you come see their archives? Can you talk about some of your findings about African American influence at Buffalo Trace? Can you share one of your stories interviewing from interviewing and documenting people? What was one awful story that really sticks out? How far back can you go with oral history? How did enslaved Africans bring the skill of farming and barreling? Describe the feeling you get when you discover a document? What's the end goal when you gather all the information you can? What is an example of something you read of African American history at a distillery? Is there a certain individual that had a very interesting story? Since you're a tequila person is there any African American involvement you've discovered with tequila? @dr_eringil @_kbbg_ Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review New Holland Beer Barrel Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 80 proof and $35 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for January 28th 2022. Malted Barley Shortage Hits Bourbon Distilleries, Law Makers Push Privatization of Liquor Sales, Chattanooga Whiskey Release Islay Scotch Cask FinishShow Notes: Kentucky bourbon report from the KDA shows the highs of economic impact and lows of tax burden Mississippi and Pennsylvania lawmakers are pushing towards privatization of liquor sales The US and UK are negotiating tariffs imposed on American Whiskey There is a new malted barley shortage hitting bourbon distilleries Maker’s Mark has earned B Corporation Certification Pat's Whiskey Auction netted over $4.5M in sales Buffalo Trace Distillery set a new visitation record Elijah Craig Bourbon is partnering with PGA TOUR professional golfer Max Homa Ian Stirsman has been named the first master distiller at Ross and Squibb Distillery Old Forester is offering the public one day of free admission to Louisville's Roots 101 African-American Museum in collaboration with KOBBE Conecuh Ridge Distillery breaks ground in Troy, AL to produce Clyde May’s Alabama Whiskey, Bourbon and Rye C.S. McCullough's in Johnson City TN will let you bring in bourbon while you get your hair cut Puncher’s Chance has its first-ever limited release offering, The D12TANCE Buzzard’s Roost Whiskey announces Toasted French Oak Bourbon Chattanooga Whiskey announces their release of Islay Scotch Cask Finish The GlenDronach today unveiled the limited release of its first-ever 50-Year-Old Single Malt @kentuckybourbontrail @makersmark @whiskyauctioneer @buffalotrace @buffalotraceditillery @elijahcraig @rossvilleunion @oldforester @kobbe @clydemayswhiskey @puncherschancebourbon @buzzardsroostwhiskey @chattwhiskey @glendronach @glendronach_us @rbwhiskymaker Support this podcast on Patreon

Bourbon and whiskey runs deep in Central Kentucky, but so did one of the largest marijuana manufacturing and trade rings in history. Cornbread Mafia tells the story of how of how Johnny Boone, Bobby Joe Shoemaker, and many others created one of the most highly sophisticated marijuana trades that ran right through Bardstown, KY, the heart of bourbon country. Jim Higdon is the author of the book and he joins the show talk about how this cultural phenomenon really had a very big tie back to the whiskey industry during prohibition. Many got into the illegal distilling business because that's what they knew how to do and was the only means of providing for their families. We talk more about the bourbon connection and how that eventually turned into marijuana territory which opened the door to elaborate plans to evade law enforcement and even had the DEA swarming with helicopters around Bardstown. This story has also put Jim on the path for being an advocate of legalization and he's even started his own CBD gummy business called Cornbread Hemp. If you enjoy stories like these, I would highly recommend reading or listening on Audible to The Cornbread Mafia. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about infinity bottles. Moonshining was really how this all got started George Remus was a real gangster and had a big role into bootlegging as well. Talk about the history of Basil Hayden. Why was Central KY known as the "Ft. Lauderdale of KY"? Talk about the outlaw side of your family. How important was L&N Railroad to bourbon at the time? Was Lebanon affected by The Temperance Movement? I read during prohibition people were using stills that can produce 1000 gallons a day. Give a background of Johnny Boone and Bobby Joe Shoemaker. Why were they smuggling marijuana from Belize? Talk about one of the biggest marijuana busts. In your research, did you find any fighting between government agencies? Was there any violence involved with The Cornbread Mafia? There was a common thread of "no one talks". How did you feel about how the media portrayed The Cornbread Mafia? What was it like being indicted to find Johnny Boone and almost go to jail? Today, would someone be sentenced to 20 years in prison for marijuana? Talk about your new venture of Cornbred Hemp. Why isn't Cornbread Mafia a movie? @jimhigdon Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Very Olde St. Nick The OG. This 17 year old bourbon from Preservation Distillery is 108.3 proof and $600 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for January 121st 2022. Mellow Moments Cuts Back on Birthday Gifts. Japan now recognizes "Bourbon" and "Tennessee Whiskey" as distinctive products of the United States. Buffalo Trace launches their first NFT with 6L bottlesShow Notes: University of Louisville basketball fan drained a 96' putt for a Pappy 23 Mellow Moments Cuts Back on Birthday Gifts California passes SB620 to allow craft distilleries to ship direct to consumer Launch of a new Columbus Distillery Trail Virginia Del. Nick Freitas calls for abolishing Virginia ABC stores The Party Source is opening a new in-house bourbon bar this year Japan now recognizes "Bourbon" and "Tennessee Whiskey" as distinctive products of the United States George Remus has developed the Limited-Release Remus Repeal Reserve Collector’s Box Set Barrell announces BCS Gray Label Seagrass which features 100% Canadian rye whisky aged for 16 years Buffalo Trace launches their first NFT with 6L bottles @universityoflouisville @fourrosesbourbon @experiencecolumbus @thepartysourcenky @distilledspiritscouncil @georgeremusbourbon @barrellbourbon @buffalotracedistillery @buffalotrace Support this podcast on Patreon

Rye whiskey production had a historic past in the northeastern states, especially Pennsylvania and Maryland. And now Sagamore Spirit based in Baltimore is bringing rye whiskey back. Ryan and I traveled to record this interview with their CEO, Brian Tracey, and their Director of Operations, Ryan Norwood. We uncover Brian's unique past of how a phone call with Kevin Plank, the CEO of Under Armour, would take him from running a backpacking and kayaking company in Flagstaff Arizona to building a new distillery from the ground up. One of Brian's tasks was to find a distiller and that led to a few conversations with Ryan Norwood, a young guy who was really into yeast and beers. Sagamore had a longstanding relationship with MGP but now they have their own Maryland rye distillate and we talk about how they shaped and revitalized the Maryland rye category. Show Notes: Brian talk about how you go from ski bum to whiskey CEO? How did you cross paths with Under Armour CEO, Kevin Plank, and him ask you to become CEO? What did you know about the distilling business before starting? What did Kevin like about the distilling business? What was the initial vision? After you were convinced to start, who was the first call you made? When did Ryan Norwood come into the picture for distilling? Walk us through the differences be between brewing and distilling. What was is like working with Larry Ebersold to develop your Maryland style rye? Why do distilleries go with 95/5 rye? What was the process of figuring out how to scale and go beyond a 500 gallon pot still? Why only distill rye whiskey when bourbon is so popular? What does it mean to you when articles begin coming out without any affiliation to Under Armour? As a CEO, what are you trying to empower your people with? What was it about going down the path of finished whiskeys? Do you have any horror stories from working with barrel brokers on used barrels? Here's how we all came together to collaborate on Pursuit United Rye. @sagamorespirit @sagamorewhiskeybrian @smilesdavisjr Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Maker’s Mark FAE-02 2021. This non-age stated bourbon is 109.1 proof and $60 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for January 14th 2022. Bulleit retained its position as the bestselling American whiskey in the World's Best Bars. Are Basil Hayden And Old Grand-Dad The Same? UFC's Dustin Poirier is launching Rare Stash Bourbon.Show Notes: Bulleit retained its position as the bestselling American whiskey in the World's Best Bars The Kentucky Bourbon Benefit presents a $3.4 million check to Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear Hennessy will join a big trend by launching its first NFTs No science supports a belief that taking a month off drinking is good for your liver PBR posted a since-deleted tweet that read "Not drinking this January? Try eating a**." Ireland’s government imposes a minimum unit price on alcoholic beverage Are Basil Hayden And Old Grand-Dad The Same? From Chuck Cowdery Limestone Branch Distiller debuts the Yellowstone Select Landmark Edition Bottle series UFC lightweight champion Dustin "The Diamond" Poirier is launching Rare Stash Bourbon Coca-Cola and Constellation Brands are releasing a lemon-flavored canned cocktail known as Fresca Mixed @bulliet @bullietwhiskey @bourboncrusade @fredminnick @kentuckybourbontrail @hennessy @blockbar.@eth @pabstblueribbon @basilhayden @limestonebranch @yellowstonebourbon @dustinpoirier @cocacola @frescausa @constellationbrands Support this podcast on Patreon

We're back with Bourbon Community Roundtable #64 and here's the topics! Sazerac implemented NFC tags in this year's Thomas H. Handy. Is this the boost the bourbon market needed? Is this setting up bourbon for more of a collectible market? But who should be watching and take the next step. I got into a scuffle on TikTok because someone said "what non-allocated bourbons are you hunting for this year?". Which I replied, that's not really a hunt. How do you define hunting? Lastly, let's hear some 2022 predictions! Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about how to attend Whiskey events without getting intoxicated. Sazerac implemented NFC tags in this year's Thomas H. Handy. Is this the boost the bourbon market needed? Is this setting up bourbon for more of a collectible market? How soon will others start following? I got into a scuffle on TikTok because someone said "what non-allocated bourbons are you hunting for this year?". Which I replied, that's not really a hunt. How do you define hunting? Let's hear some 2022 predictions! Thanks to @bourbonr, @breakingbourbon, and @sippn_corn for joining. @bourbonr @breakingbourbon @sippn_corn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Watershed Bourbon Finished in Apple Brandy Barrels (Batch 002). This 6 year old finished bourbon is 120.8 proof and $90 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for January 7th 2022. Beverage Dynamics Gives 11 American Whiskey Trends To Watch in 2022. Tennessee ABC arrests someone for trying selling Pappy Van Winkle through a Facebook trade. WhistlePig launches a non-alcoholic whiskey called PiggyBack Devil’s Slide Show Notes: Beverage Dynamics' 11 American Whiskey Trends in 2022 Tennessee ABC arrests someone for trying selling Pappy Van Winkle through a Facebook trade Drizly’s non-alcoholic ‘spirits’ sales soar 290% in 2021 Dry January’ Is Coming, But Are Shoppers Really Shying Away? Bourbon Pursuit Discord members raised $6,200 to help wildfire support to those in Superior, CO Rev. Jim Sichko auctioned off an OFC 1995 and a basketball blessed by Pope Francis WhistlePig Whiskey has launched a limited-edition, non-alcoholic whiskey called PiggyBack Devil’s Slide OH Ingram announced the release of its fourth expression, Ingram River Aged Straight Bourbon Whiskey @tennesseeABC @whistlepigwhiskey @ingramwhiskey Support this podcast on Patreon

When I got a text message that said "Hey, do you want to have Brad Paisley on your show?" I couldn't resist jumping at the chance. Everyone knows Brad as the country music legend, but we got to sit down and discover bourbon enthusiast Brad. He once was known as a sober star, but bourbon has has permanently cemented a place in his life. We talk about how he first began appreciating bourbon and how that led him to start his own brand called American Highway. We discuss the brand, it's origin, and future, but stick around till the end and you will hear some epic bourbon hunting stories. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the glass shortage. You used to not drink alcohol, is that still true? How did the whiskey brand come about? Was the bourbon at least a year old before it went on the road? Was it tempting to want to test out a barrel on the road? How did you find out about Bardstown Bourbon Company? What were your early challenges with the truck on tour? Did people connect the dots when they saw your rolling rickhouse? What did you learn about blending? What would you say to someone who was hesitant about buying a celebrity brand? Are you going to put tour numbers on the label to differentiate batches? Any good bourbon hunting stories? Is there a charitable aspect to the brand? @bradpaisley @americanhighwayreserve Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Blue Run Spirits Golden Rye. This non-age stated rye is 95 proof and $100 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for December 31st 2021. Looking back at 2021 Direct To Consumer Shipping Wins and Losses. 7 Drinks Trends to Watch in 2022. Heaven Hill announces changes to their morning bottle releases Show Notes: Looking back at 2021 Direct To Consumer Shipping Wins and Losses Research shows highly fit women and men are more likely to consume alcohol than unfit individuals VinePair releases 7 Drinks Trends to Watch in 2022 White Oak Initiative report shows oak trees aren’t growing at a sustainable rate Journeyman Distillery releases Last Feather Rye Cask Strength Heaven Hill announces changes to their morning bottle releases Ndlovu Gin Original is a gin infused with... elephant dung @sovoscompliance @vinepair @journeymandistillery @heavenhilldistillery Support this podcast on Patreon

It's no secret that we're big fans of Finger Lakes Distilling since it's one of the crucial components in Pursuit United. A few months ago, we booked some flights and took our recording gear to upstate New York. We sat down with their president, owner, and former distiller Brian McKenzie. We talk about his journey into whiskey and some of the challenges he faced as a craft distiller. We cover the unique aspects of being a craft distiller with a column still, their incredibly low barrel entry proof, and their infamous wheated bourbon. Show Partners: Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com. Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more. Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com. You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now. Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com. Total Wine and More is wonderland for wine, spirits, and beer lovers! Explore more in store or online at TotalWine.com. Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about how much wood we consume from drinking bourbon. What's changed since the last time you were on the show? Tell us about your journey in whiskey. Who were your first phone calls to get started in this industry? Peat or no peat? Tell us about your wheated bourbon. What challenges did you face at the beginning being a craft distiller? Talk about your experimentations. Since the wheat is so popular, why not just focus on that? What's more fun, finishing or experimenting with mashbills. Tell us about your Master Distiller. Did you have any issues when starting the distillery? Why do craft distillers prefer certain stills? What other spirits are you creating? Talk about your seasoning process and why your barrels look so old after only 4 years. What kind of barrels are you using? Do you think the low entry proof contributes to having better tasting whiskey at a younger age? Where does the big bold fruitiness flavor come from in your bourbon? Tell us about your older aged bourbon that's coming out. Does lower entry proof have an impact on taxes? What has your distillery done for the local community? Do you get visitors from all over? What are you forecasting for your distillery? @flxdistilling Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Michter’s 2021 10 Year Single Barrel Rye. This 10 year old rye is 92.8 proof and $170 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com. DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for December 24th 2021. The Kentucky Bourbon Benefit has raised over $3M for Tornado relief. The Heaven Hill vs Log Still court battle for the Dant name has come to an end after 9 months. Let's talk a little more about United Rye since it's now only available on store shelves Show Notes: Bourbon Pursuit fundraiser has raised $20,587 for Team Western KY Tornado Relief, Bellewood & Brooklawn, and Hand-in-Hand Ministries The Kentucky Bourbon Benefit has raised over $3M for Tornado relief Carr’s Steakhouse that once stood in downtown Mayfield have donated 14 bottles to The Kentucky Bourbon Benefit Halls Chophouse Charleston is offering Buffalo Trace 1995 O.F.C. bourbon to benefit tornado relief The Heaven Hill vs Log Still court battle for the Dant name has come to an end after 9 months IWSR expects e-commerce sales are expected to reach more than US $42 billion by 2025 The Top 10 states for American Whiskey Sales Texas State Securities Board has issued an emergency cease and desist order to Whiskey & Wealth Club United Rye is sold out on Seelbachs but is only available on shelves now Doghouse has released a chili bacon flavored vodka @kentuckybourbontrail @carrssteakhouse @hallschophouse @heavenhilldistillery @logstilldistillery @doghousedistillery Support this podcast on Patreon

Every year we try to do something different for Christmas that's not really focused around bourbon. I'm sure you spend a lot of time talking about bourbon with your "bourbon friends", but it is always interesting to learn more about them on a personal level. This year we decided to bring back some fun ice breaker questions so you can get to know a little more about us. We hope you enjoy and from the entire Bourbon Pursuit team, happy holidays! Show Partners: Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com. Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more. Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com. You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now. Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com. Total Wine and More is wonderland for wine, spirits, and beer lovers! Explore more in store or online at TotalWine.com. Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com. Show Notes: What's the best cheeseburger? What’s the best meal you know how to cook? Candy, chocolate, or popcorn at the movies? What was your first job? What was the most physically exhausting job you ever had? What's your favorite casino game? What’s one part of the world you still really want to see or experience? What's your best bourbon shopping experience of the year? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Peg Leg Porker Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 90 proof and $40 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com. DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for December 17th 2021. The Kentucky Bourbon Benefit will take place to support Kentucky Tornado relief. Buffalo Trace adds NFC chips to Thomas H. Handy foils. A. Smith Bowman is releasing a 15 year rum finished bourbon. Show Notes: The Kentucky Bourbon Benefit will feature exclusive private barrels, rare bottles, and more to support Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Breckenridge Distillery has been acquired by cannabis company Tilray for $10.92M Brown Forman, Diageo, and Beam Suntory have pledge reach net-zero carbon emission Small Producers Are Slow Proofing Their Whiskey Should you invest is a whiskey funds? Gross annual rate of return of 17% Maker’s Mark “Whisky Flights” will pay for your baggage fees Alabama's Golden Ticket Lottery Buffalo Trace adds NFC chips to THH foils Jim Beam drops a Bourbon Cream plus the brand’s first board game in a new holiday kit Crown Royal is launching an 18 year old release in connection with grillz maker Scotty ATL General Manager and Distiller Nicole Austin has unveiled Cascade Moon 13 Year Old Rye A. Smith Bowman Distillery announces a 15year old rum finished bourbon @kentuckybourbontrail @bourboncrusade @breckdistillery @fredminnick @tilray @brownforman @diageo @nancylfraley @forbes @makersmark @aldotcomnews @jimbeamofficial @crownroyal @cascadehollowdistillingco @a.@smithbowman Support this podcast on Patreon

It's another jam packed Bourbon Community Roundtable as we discuss the latest trending topics of the past few weeks. One of the greatest pieces of whiskey news is that tariffs are being eliminated. This will open up international commerce once again for bourbon and we take a stab at some theories on what moves we expect distilleries to make in 2022. There are always bottle releases that get all the attention, but after a solid year of bourbon releases we give our takes on some bottles that should have gotten more attention. Lastly, the market is the market and we all know that stores are beginning to price their prized bottles close to secondary. If you've been a long-time customer of that retailer, are you going to switch stores or start paying higher prices? Show Partners: Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com. Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more. Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com. You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now. Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com. Total Wine and More is wonderland for wine, spirits, and beer lovers! Explore more in store or online at TotalWine.com. Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about MRE bourbon pairings. Now that tariffs have been revoked, what moves do we expect distilleries to make next in 2022? Do you think the EU can make it more appealing to sell American Whiskey there vs. keeping it in the US? Is there a bottle release that happened this year that you feel should get more attention? If your favorite retailer had to start selling their allocations at secondary prices, would you find another store to purchase from? Thanks to @bourbonr, @breakingbourbon, and @sippn_corn for joining. @bourbonr @breakingbourbon @sippn_corn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Off Hours Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 95 proof and $45 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com. DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for Decmber 10 2021. Four Roses opens a new and newly renovated 15,000-square-foot visitor center. According to new research by IWSR, we’re slowly but surely becoming a nation of craft spirits drinkers. Stellum™ Black: a limited-release premium expression is announced Show Notes: Four Roses cuts the ribbon on the new visitor center at the Lawrenceburg facility Rye whiskey isn't an American Creation. From Lew Bryson over at The Daily Beast IWSR Drinks Market Analysis, we’re slowly but surely becoming a nation of craft spirits drinkers Park Street Companies and American Craft Spirits Association (ACSA) release the fifth annual Craft Spirits Data Project American Distilling Institute has now opened the call for proposals The DISCUS was granted $1.12M to promote American spirits exports in 2022 Bardstown Bourbon Company's “World’s Top Whiskey Taster” takes place December 11, 2021 Wilderness Trail Distillery plans to increase its production to 80,000 barrels a year Total Wine & More saw its revenue grow to more than $5 billion in 2020 Old Forester Distilling Co holds nationwide lottery for President's Choice Stellum launches Stellum Black Bourbon and Stellum Black Rye Wilderness Trail’s first ever four-grain Bourbon whiskey will have a pink label Chicken Cock Cotton Club 20 year Canadian Rye Whiskey Heaven’s Door Whiskey announced the Bootleg Series Vol III Booker’s Batch 2021-04 Noe Strangers Batch Barefoot Wine and Oreo have come together to create a cookie-flavored red blend @fourrosesbourbon @thedailybeast @theiwsr @parkstreetcompanies @craftspiritsus @americandistilling @distilledspiritscouncil @wildernesstraildistillery @totalwine @oldforester @stellumspirits @chickencockwhiskey @heavensdoorwhiskey @barefootwine @oreo Support this podcast on Patreon

What happens when you bring 5 of the top distilleries together and have them each provide two of their best barrels? You get the Bardstown Collection. Jim Beam, Heaven Hill, Log Still, Preservation, and Bardstown Bourbon Company have come together along with the tourism side of Visit Bardstown to release 5 special edition bottles that will benefit the community of Bardstown. All proceeds will go to the Main Street Association, Hospitality, and First Responders. These exclusive expressions have a unified packaging featuring Bardstown imagery and the only difference is a small label with each brand logo at the bottom of the bottle. In this episode, we're joined by Freddie Noe, Conor O'Driscoll, Lynne Dant, and Steve Nally to talk about the process of making this collection. These bottles will be released at each distillery starting on January 13th and the cost will range $159 - $249 per bottle. Get ready to collect the whole set! Visit BardstownCollection.com for more details and specific release times. Show Partners: Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com. Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more. Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com. You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now. Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com. Total Wine and More is wonderland for wine, spirits, and beer lovers! Explore more in store or online at TotalWine.com. Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about your palate being off. Tell us about your role in this project. What was the process like for choosing the barrels for this project? What does this project mean for Bardstown? Talk about the charity aspect of this project. When are these bottles being released? Why aren't more distilleries getting together to do these kinds of projects? What does this project mean to you? @jimbeamofficial @heavenhilldistillery @bardstownbourbonco @logstilldistillery @preservationdistillery Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Basil Hayden Toast. This non-age stated bourbon is 80 proof and $50 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com. DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for Decmber 3rd 2021. Here's the headlines for this week: Over the last 10 years, as it relates to counterfeit alcohol, a WHAS11 story found no arrests have ever been made. Four new distilleries have been added to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour. Barrell Craft Spirits is releasing their Gold Label Bourbon Show Notes: The first-ever Craft Whiskey Expo at Sea will take place next spring on Celebrity Cruises Four new distilleries have been added to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour Kentucky’s Original Black Bourbon Enthusiasts, KOBBE, announces the 4th annual Bourbon & Benevolence Charity Tasting & Auction Ball Corp is lifting the minimum number of cans certain producers must order and saying it will raise prices UPROXX came out with a new article called The 50 Best Bourbon Whiskeys Of 2021 Buffalo Trace is inviting everyone to come see the Distillery lighted with thousands of holiday lights Wildsam is releasing a new title in its Pursuits series, Kentucky Bourbon Country Widow Jane Distillery announces today the release of The Vaults 2021 High West is releasing High Country Single Malt TX announced the launch of TX Whiskey Canned Cocktails Scottie Pippen is debuting a bourbon barrel-aged tea Woodford Reserve announces Five-Malt Stouted Mash Barrell Craft Spirits announces New Year Bourbon 2022 and Gold Label Bourbon @celebritycruises @kentuckybourbontrail @502kobbe @ballcorporation @uproxxlife @uproxx @bufalotrace @wildsam @widow_jane @drinkhighwest @txwhiskey @scottiepippen @woodfordreserve @barrellbourbon Support this podcast on Patreon

When we typically talk about building a distillery, we usually think of things like stills, mash tanks, and where to store all the grain. But building a distillery is no different than building a house. To make all that stuff work, you need electricity, plumbing, and pumps... lots and lots and lots of pumps. Before you even begin breaking ground or rehabbing an old abandoned distillery, a lot of this needs to be planned out. This is one topic that we've never covered on the podcast and that's how the heck do you actually build a working distillery? We invited Nick Morgan and Ronnie Flerlage to be on the show. They are mechanical engineers from Shrout Tate Wilson Consulting Engineers and have experience on how to design and build a distillery from the ground up. They specialize in being a one stop shop that will guide you through the entire process of making sure you have all the guts needed to turn on the lights, but also specialize in working with companies like Vendome to create the best still and distillation equipment to meet your needs. Show Partners: Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com. Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more. Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com. You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now. Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com. Total Wine and More is wonderland for wine, spirits, and beer lovers! Explore more in store or online at TotalWine.com. Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about if bourbon goes bad. When did you realize you had an interest for how distilleries work? Tell us about your background. What did you do for Vendome? Tell us about the still designing process. Do you prefer designing column or pot stills? Where do you start when building a distillery? Where do you use water for cooling? How do you know how much power you need? Where do you put stillage? Who do you usually work with at a distillery? What happens after you break ground? What has advanced in distillery design? Talk about fermentation tanks. What's a standard pump? Do you think past sanitation processes had an impact on the flavor of dusty bourbon? How do you know how big a doubler needs to be? What is a tailbox? What do you need for fire safety in a distillery? @stwengineers Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review a Nashville Barrel Company Single Barrel. This 5 year old bourbon is 115.5 proof and $75 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com. DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for November 26th 2021. Here's the headlines for this week: Pursuit United Rye has been bottled and is coming soon. A semi-truck of Jack Daniel's overturned in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Frey Ranch Distillery announces their single grain series. Show Notes: Pursuit United Rye has been bottled! Clay Risen has a new 4 part book Bourbon: The Story of Kentucky Whiskey Ocado Group adds Yellowstone and Ezra Brooks A semi-truck overturned in Murfreesboro, Tennessee carrying an estimated $400,000 worth of Jack Daniel’s liquidcraft.io launches their first NFT called Dragons & Bourbon Series Fred Minnick is hosting a bourbon tasting in New York City on December 8th in partnership with Michters Brother's Bond Bourbon has donated $50,000 to Kiss The Ground T-Pain has a new cocktail book called Can I Mix You A Drink: 50 Cocktails from My Life & Career Jimmy Russell of Wild Turkey celebrated his 87th birthday last weekend Jefferson’s Bourbon has debuted Ocean Voyage 24 called "Ship's Log" Conecuh Brands is introducing four new expressions under its Clyde May’s Whiskey label Frey Ranch Distillery launches their “Single Grain Series” Blue Run Spirits has new releases for the 2021 holiday season Four Gate Whiskey Company announces Rye DownUnder The LEE Initiative and Maker’s Mark launch the second-annual limited-edition “CommUNITY Batch” Lost Lantern is releasing three limited-edition single casks Wolves Whiskey is partnering with Willett Distillery to launch The Rye Project, Volume One, Batch One Field Rye Whiskey, created in collaboration with the Field Museum, will become available for purchase at O’Hare International Airport Peerless is releasing for their second time, rye whiskey aged in absinthe barrels @pursuitspirits @risenc @ocadouk @yelowstonebourbon @ezrabrooksbourbon @jackdaniels_us @craft_liquid @fredminnick @brothersbondbourbon @tpain @wildturkey @jeffersonsbourbon @clydemayswhiskey @freyranchdistillery @fourgatewhiskey @chefedwardlee @leeinitiative @makersmark @lostlanternwhiskey @willettdistillery @kentuckypeerless Support this podcast on Patreon

Now I have to admit, I remember the first time I heard of Blue Run Spirits and I had my reservations. Who were these guys with some 13 year old sourced product, a Nike shoe designer creating the packaging, the likes of Jim Rutledge putting his name to it, and they are charging over $150 a bottle!? A lot of those reservations began to disappear after I tasted their bourbon. It was really good. And then, the awards started piling up. Blue Run Spirits has been on a sprint more-so than run after launching in 2020. I'm joined by Mike Montgomery and Tim Sparapani, both co-founders of Blue Run, to talk about this journey and how they hit a turning point when people couldn't stop talking about their products. We talk about working with Jim Rutledge, moving from high aged to younger whiskeys, and how they are meeting a new demand in the market. Show Partners: Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com. Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more. Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com. You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now. Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com. Total Wine and More is wonderland for wine, spirits, and beer lovers! Explore more in store or online at TotalWine.com. Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the secondary market. How did your whiskey journey begin? Where did your two worlds collide? Why bourbon? Tell us how you went about sourcing your product. How many barrels were your buying in the beginning? Tell us about your packaging. How did you land on the butterfly? How was it working with Jim Rutledge? What was the turning point? Are you concerned about selling younger aged products? Talk about your pricing strategy. What are you working on at Bardstown Bourbon Company? @bluerunspirits Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Blue Note Crossroads. This non-age stated bourbon is 100 proof and $40 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com. DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for November 19th 2021. Here's the headlines for this week: Buffalo Trace announced that it will be dropping the word “Jr.” from Stagg Jr. Drizly shares the data collected for gift-giving whiskeys. Old Elk Infinity Blend is the best blend created by Master Distiller Greg Metze. Show Notes: Buffalo Trace announced that it will be dropping the word “Jr.” from its highly sought-after Stagg Jr. brand. TTB Approved 179.6K Products in the last 12 months through October 2021. Californian winemakers are venturing into other premium beverages. Jack Daniel Distillery donates $100,000 to Armed Services YMCA (ASYMCA) for “Operation Ride Home”. Chris Nolan recieved "ESPRIT DE CORPS" award from the KDA Copperworks Distilling Co. is crowdfunding for a new expansion. Drizly shares the data collected for gift-giving whiskeys. Drizly has announced a collaboration with 7-Eleven. Sonoma-Cutrer and Woodford Reserve announce a $50,000 joint donation to No Kid Hungry. A new study comes out that says drinking above the age of 70 is good for heart health. New Holland Spirits of Holland, MI will release Zeppelin Bend 10yr. Castle & Key Distillery is officially launching a series of Restoration Rye Single Barrels. Treaty Oak Ghost Hill Texas Bourbon No. 1767 is set to be released. Heaven’s Door has collaborated with MGM Resorts on an exclusive limited-edition bourbon, 777 Blend. Maverick Whiskey is releasing its limited-edition Samuel Maverick Barrel Proof Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Old Elk Distillery recently unveiled a new limited edition expression, the Old Elk Infinity Blend. @kentuckybourbontrail @buffalotracedistillery @jackdaniels_us @copperworksdist @drizlyinc @woodfordreserve @sonomacutrer @newhollandspirits @castleandkey @treatyoak @maverickwhiskey @oldelkbourbon @heavensdoorwhiskey Support this podcast on Patreon

We've taken a bit of a hiatus, but we're back and we've got two topics that are hot. A few months ago, Buffalo Trace announced there would be no George T. Stagg in the 2021 release of the Antique Collection. Many theories arose such as holding it back on purpose to create a media frenzy or potentially having a new brand come from it. However, Buffalo Trace has gone on record saying it didn't reach the standard they come to expect from it. We'll analyze this from both sides. In the second half of the show, we'll look at the sheer volume of brands that are built on MGP and how some have hype and some are still finding their way. Show Partners: Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com. Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more. Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com. You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now. Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com. Total Wine and More is wonderland for wine, spirits, and beer lovers! Explore more in store or online at TotalWine.com. Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about bourbon advertising. BTAC was missing George T. Stagg this year, what are your thoughts on this? Do you think they are holding the bourbon back for another purpose? Does it feel like a PR stunt? What do you gain by going to the NY Times? Did any of the BTAC bottles not live up to the hype? Why do some MGP brands have more hype than others? How sustainable are the higher priced MGP bourbons? Is it hard to stay excited about MGP based brands? Thanks to @bourbonr, @breakingbourbon, and @sippn_corn for joining. @bourbonr @breakingbourbon @sippn_corn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Rabbit Hole Raceking Founder’s Collection. This non-age stated bourbon is 109.2 proof and $295 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com. DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 12th 2021. Here's the headlines for this week. DC Police Officers Ship Jack Daniels and didn't know it was illegal. Sagamore Spirit releases their first 4-Year-Old 100-Proof Bottled in Bond Maryland Distilled Straight Rye Whiskey. Baker's Bourbon introduces Baker's Exclusive Selection. Show Notes: Is the whisky bubble set to burst? A Distillery worker at the Girvan distillery in Ayrshire was fired for urinating next to casks. The DC police ship Jack Daniels and didn't know it was illegal. Kentucky Mountain Moonshine Distillery is the newest KDA member. The Kroger 2021 Ultimate Bourbon Auction to End Hunger will end on 11/21 https://ultimatebourbonauction.com/ Coack K was gifted a bottle of Pappy 23 from the other 3 head coaches of the Champions Classic. ReserveBar has reached an agreement to acquire Minibar Delivery. Filibuster Distillery has agreed to pay a $700,000 penalty. Evan Williams Bourbon announced winners for the American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund grants. Brad Paisley launches “American Highway” Bourbon. Sagamore Spirit releases their 4-Year-Old 100-Proof Bottled in Bond Maryland Distilled Straight Rye Whiskey. Blue Note Bourbon officially launches Blue Note Crossroads. Baker's Bourbon introduces Baker's Exclusive Selection. Grisly’s Cosmic Black is a new RTD that's bourbon and cola. Buzzard’s Roost Whiskey has debuted its first Bourbon. Treaty Oak Distilling announced a partnership with Whisky Meyers to create their first collaboration. Turkey Tom bourbon arrives just in time for the holidays. Why not. Arby's is introducing 2 new french-fry flavored vodkas. @kentuckybourbontrail @heavenhilldistillery @jackdaniels_us @jimbeamofficial @krogerco @krogerchrispicks @reservebarspirits @minibardelivery @dukembb @filibusterdistillery @evanwilliamsbourbon @bradpaisley @sagamorespirit @bluenotebourbon @buzzardsroostwhiskey @treatyoak @whiskeymyers @arbys Support this podcast on Patreon

Smoke Wagon felt as if it came on to the bourbon scene like it was fired out of a cannon. In the past 2 years, they have become one of the most highly sought after brands. However, the story of Smoke Wagon began over a decade ago. Aaron Chepenik started in the bar scene in LA that expanded into Vegas, but he got burnt out with the late nights and partying. That led him and his investor friend to start a vodka business which eventually opened the door to bourbon. Aaron had dreams of distilling his own whiskey, but quickly had to face reality when he realized that the equipment he purchased to distill whiskey couldn't scale after a visit to a little distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana. When he was at MGP, he ended up buying as much aged product as he could and had the foresight to begin putting down new fill barrels as well. As fate (or government restrictions) would have it, he couldn't release his first bourbon for almost 4 years after. He's built a cult-like following with his overly transparent personality on Instagram which makes him even more genuine to us bourbon enthusiasts. Show Partners: Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com. Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more. Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com. You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now. Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com. Total Wine and More is wonderland for wine, spirits, and beer lovers! Explore more in store or online at TotalWine.com. Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about future bourbon history. Where did you first hear about Smoke Wagon? Tell us about your background. When did you get your first taste of whiskey? Why did you start a bar in LA? Tell us about your vodka business. How did you decide to get into the bourbon business? How is Smoke Wagon different than other MGP brands? Take us through the design of the bottle. Tell us about the stolen barrel. Where can someone get one of your hats? @smokewagonbourbon @aaron_from_nvdistilling Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Jack Daniel's 10 Year Old. This 10 year whiskey is 97 proof and $70 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com. DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 8th 2021. Here's the headlines for this week. After 3 long years, the US and EU have agreed to remove retaliatory tariffs on bourbon exports. Kroger's ultimate bourbon auction will begin on 11/10 with some unicorns up for bids. Castle & Key and the Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild collaborate on a new extension called The Untold Story of Kentucky Whiskey. Show Notes: The U.S. and the E.U. have agreed to remove retaliatory tariffs on Kentucky Bourbon and American Whiskey. 25% tariffs in place in the UK because of Brexit. Lux Row Distillers will undergo a $4 million expansion beginning in November. The Idaho State Liquor Division has new rules in place for selling rare bourbons. The Kroger 2021 Ultimate Bourbon Auction to End Hunger begin on November 10. Visit https://ultimatebourbonauction.com Castle & Key announced a new line extension called The Untold Story of Kentucky Whiskey, Chapter 1 in partnership with The Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild (KBBG). Tamworth Distilling has unveiled a roasted turkey-flavored whiskey, Bird Of Courage. Wyoming Whiskey is releasing the fifth expression of its signature Outryder Straight American Whiskey. Old Charter Oak French Oak is the latest release from Buffalo Trace Distillery. All the Cookies Bourbon from Old Dominick is being rereleased. Jack Daniel’s has announced the release of its 2021 Single Barrel Special Release, Coy Hill High Proof. The 1st Straight Rosen Rye Whiskey made in the United States in over 50 years has officially been bottled by Stoll & Wolfe Distillery. Woodford Reserve announces the release of its annual holiday bottle. ZZ Top and Texas-based Balcones Distilling are collaborating on a new whiskey titled Tres Hombres. New Belgium Brewing and Four Roses Bourbon announced the 2021 release of Oakspire Bourbon Barrel Ale. Barrell Craft Spirits is releasing their 'BCS Gray Label' which are finished barrels of 24-year-old Canadian whiskey. @krogerchrispicks @luxrowdistillers @castleandkey @tamworth_distilling @wyomingwhiskey @buffalotrace @olddominick @jackdaniels_us @stollandwolfewhiskey @woodfordreserve @balconesdistilling @zztop @newbelgium @fourrosesbourbon @barrellbourbon Support this podcast on Patreon

I've witnessed first hand the progression of bourbon over the past 6 years since this podcast began. It went from learning about new releases and hunting for them with relative ease to 72 hour campouts for bottles that used to be on the shelves. However, my time in bourbon doesn't match that of our guest's. Steve Ury, better known as Sku, is one of the original bloggers in bourbon before there were YouTubers and podcasters. He has backed off blogging, but still stays up to date with everything happening in bourbon and takes notice of how brands are changing. He's cynical about brands and the changing consumer, but that doesn't stop him from talking about every TTB label approval. Steve has also found a new home in brandy and we discuss how long it will take before Instagramers and podcasters ruin that too. Show Partners: Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com. Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more. Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com. You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now. Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com. Total Wine and More is wonderland for wine, spirits, and beer lovers! Explore more in store or online at TotalWine.com. Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about distilleries that have made the greatest impact on bourbon. How did you get into bourbon? Tell us about your blog and the time before the bourbon boom. When did you get more cynical about bourbon? When did you see the change where distilleries constantly had special releases? Were dusties big early on? Do you think vintage whiskey is overpriced? Do you blame people or brands more for the bourbon culture today? Do you still look at the TTB daily? Tell us about your journey into brandy. How long before the podcasters and Instagramers ruin brandy?

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Little Book Chapter 5 "The Invitation". This 2, 3, 5 and 15 year old blended bourbon is 116.8 proof and $125 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com. DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 29th 2021. Here's the headlines for this week. Union workers agree to a new Heaven Hill contract. DISCUS files a 66 page report on trade and export disputes. Blue Run Spirits launches their first high rye bourbon.Show Notes: Union workers vote to accept a new contract with Heaven Hill distillery. The Kentucky Distillers’ Association welcomes Three Boys Farm Distillery and Coal Pick Distillery. Interbrand names Jack Daniel's the most valuable spirit brand in the world. What's next for American whiskey? Single-barrel whiskey offerings on Drizly has expanded by 12 percent in 2021. NFT Tied to Rare Whiskey Cask Auctions for $2.3M. Owens Corning introduced \"Bourbon\" as the 2022 Shingle Color of the Year. The Kitchen Table restaurant coming to Jim Beam DISCUS submitted a detailed report (66 pages to be exact) to the United States Trade Representative identifying key foreign trade barriers impeding U.S. distilled spirits exports. 2021 edition of Brooklyn Black Ops, a collaboration from Kentucky-based Four Roses Distillery and New York’s Brooklyn Brewery. Jeptha Creed is releasing their first Bottled-In-Bond Rye Bourbon. Blue Run Kentucky Straight High Rye Bourbon Whiskey is now available. HIRSCH announces the debut of its Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Michter's 20 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon will mark the first release since 2019. @kentuckybourbontrail @heavenhilldistillery @brownforman @jackdaniels_us @drizly @owenscorningroofing @jimbeamofficial @distilledspiritscouncil @brooklynbrewery @fourrosesbourbon @bluerunspirits @jepthacreed @michterswhiskey @hirschwhiskey Support this podcast on Patreon

Starting a distillery is no easy task and figuring out how to bank roll it is even harder. Do you tie up all your money into equipment and wait a few years and hope the whiskey is good or is it smarter to supplement that with some sourced product? But beyond that, how do you scale, distribute, and sell? Scott Schiller from Thoroughbred Spirits Group has launched 30 distillers, designed over 50 brands, and facilitated 3 successful exits. He joins the show to talk about everything I just mentioned, but Scott also has a fascinating family history with spirits where he learned how to distill with his grandfather at an iconic Chicago tavern called Bucket O Suds. Show Partners: Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com. Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more. Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com. You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now. Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com. Savor every drop of summer at Total Wine & More! You’re sure to find cool prices in-store or online at TotalWine.com. Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about QR codes. How did you get into this industry? What company did your family start in Chicago? What is Bucket O Suds? Tell us about the distillery. Talk about one of your early successes. How do you approach the conversations with clients about scaling? Do you see a lot of NDPs that previously bottled older whiskey and now can't get it? Are a lot of people starting to scramble because there isn't as much access to aged whiskey? How do you advise someone on distribution? Do you ever have to tell clients sourcing might not work for them? How do you start conversations with potential clients ? Talk about bottle pricing.

On this special edition of Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review the 2021 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. The collection includes: Eagle Rare 17 Year, William Larue Weller, Thomas H. Handy, and Sazerac Rye 18 Year. Each bottle has a suggested retail price of $99. What's our favorite this year? Watch to find out. Cheers! Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com. DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 22nd 2021. Here's the headlines for this week. Heaven Hill will start hiring permanent replacement workers. The Kentucky Distillers Association welcomes two more members. New Riff launches Red Turkey Wheat bourbon Show Notes: Heaven Hill said it will start hiring permanent replacement workers for bottling and warehouse operations. Brown-Forman is committing to 100% renewable electricity by 2030. The Kentucky Distillers’ Association announced that Augusta Distillery and RD1 Spirits are joining. Supreme Court Declines to Review 8th Circuit Ruling for Missouri on Retail Shipping Case TTB put out an article that Federal law strictly prohibits individuals from producing distilled spirits at home. New Hampshire House Bill 416 is about production of liquor for Personal or Family Use. Brother’s Bond has purchased regeneratively farmed grain. Molson Coors Beverage Company has released of its first-ever whiskey, Five Trail Blended American Whiskey. Alberta Premium Cask Strength Rye 2021 release is returning to U.S. Wyoming Whiskey’s Single Barrel Bourbon is available once again. Bookers \"Bardstown Batch\" is the 3rd release of 2021. WhistlePig has revealed the eighth edition of The Boss Hog: LapuLapu’s Pacific. New Riff announces limited release Red Turkey Wheated Kentucky Straight Bourbon @kentuckybourbontrail @heavenhilldistillery @brownforman @brothersbondbourbon @molsoncoors @albertadistillers @wyomingwhiskey @jimbeamofficial @whistlepigwhiskey @newriff Support this podcast on Patreon

I read a meme one time that as soon as a man enters his 30s, there are two hobbies he picks up. It's whiskey and smoking meats. Well, I'm guilty for it and I know Ryan and Fred are too. There's nothing better than starting the fire in your grill and preparing for the long night ahead making sure your brisket is done. I know when I started cooking on my grill, I went to the resource where you go to learn everything on internet and that's YouTube. Immediately, I was hooked on the channel called How To BBQ Right. I learned the 10 different ways to cook ribs, game day burgers, and even a delicious pot roast from our guest today, Malcom Reed. Malcom has made a name for himself in the BBQ competition circuit and has turned it into one of the largest BBQ places on the internet. You can find him on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok and more talking how to BBQ crazy good meals. Malcom joins us to talk not only about BBQ, Wagyu steaks, dry rub vs sauce, but he's also a big bourbon fan and you can catch him drinking Buffalo Trace or EH Taylor frequently on his channels. Don't forget to to subscribe to his podcast called, you guessed it, How to BBQ Right. Show Partners: Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com. Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more. Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com. You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now. Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com. Savor every drop of summer at Total Wine & More! You’re sure to find cool prices in-store or online at TotalWine.com. Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about working for distributors. How did your passion for BBQ grow into a business? How did you get into BBQ competitions? Are there rivalries in the BBQ community? Were you nervous when you first started putting out content? How did you get into bourbon? What bourbon pairs well with specific meats? Do you prefer dry rub or sauce? Do you ever get tired of cooking at home and prefer to go out? Are Costco prime steaks as good as other butcher shops? What do you think about wagyu beef? What is your favorite way to cook tomahawk steaks? What do you think about health organizations encouraging society to eat less meat? You are stranded on an island and can only pick one cooking apparatus, what do you choose? How do you chose what grill to use? What do you think about Blackstone griddles? What BBQ pit is your go to? Do you like to turbo cook or low and slow? Is using a pellet grill cheating? What's your go to bourbon cocktail? @howtobbqright

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Blackened x Willett Straight Rye Finished in Madeira Casks. This non-age stated rye is 109.6 proof and $140 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com. DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. 

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 15th 2021. Here's the headlines for this week. Elijah Craig is having its second annual Old Fashioned Week. Breaking Bourbon takes over the BTAC Release map. Angel's Envy announces their limited edition cask strength release Show Notes: Elijah Craig recently announced its second annual Old Fashioned Week, posts will be automatically entered into the Old Fashioned Week Sweepstakes when tagging @elijahcraig. The TTB approved 180K Products over the last 12 months through September 2021 Woodford Reserve is celebrating 25 years Saddlestone Distillery has joined the KDA Distilled Spirits Council of the United States says luxury market is growing Breaking Bourbon carries the torch of owning the BTAC release map New fakes in the secondary market now targeted towards dusties Widow Jane Distillery announced that Decadence, finished in maple barrels, will return to retail shelves. Restoration Rye 2021 Batch 2 and Batch 3 can be purchased at Castle & Key Distillery Angel’s Envy announces its 2021 limited edition cask strength Jos A Magnus has new 6 new Cigar Blend batches coming out Old Elk Distillery out of Colorado is now going into cask finished variants Lost Lantern has 3 new releases coming up Elijah Craig has unveiled its latest Barrel Proof bourbon, C921 TX Whiskey announces the launch of TX Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Cognac Casks Whisper Creek Spiked Coffee cocktails coming from Pennington Oak & Eden Whiskey has announced a new chapter of its celebrity collaboration product, called the Anthro Series @kentuckybourbontrail @oakandeden @penningtondistillingco @txwhiskey @lostlanternwhiskey @oldelkbourbon @josamagnus @breakingbourbon @woodfordreserve @pennyandsparrow Support this podcast on Patreon

It's the final episode in our 4 part series of "Is Bourbon Broken?" based on the Bourbon and Banter blog series. We've looked at the consumer, secondary market, distribution and retail, but this time we are looking back at the consumer from a different angle by evaluating purchasing trends. The market is changing and now there are craft distillers, younger age statements, and NDPs with price tags 10x the cost of what the original producer charges. So what continues to drive this behavior? Show Partners: Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com. Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more. Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com. You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now. Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com. Savor every drop of summer at Total Wine & More! You’re sure to find cool prices in-store or online at TotalWine.com. Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about pour spouts. Are we seeing an overabundance of options on the market? Why are consumers drawn towards brands that are selling younger MGP? Are consumers being manipulated? As bourbon enthusiasts, why are we compelled to try new products even though they might not actually be new? Why is bourbon so polarizing? Is there a reason that more distilleries or NDPs shouldn't be putting out new products at a higher price point? As the bourbon pie grows larger, will there be more room for super premium bourbons that hit that $300+ price point?

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review King of Kentucky 2021. This 14 year old bourbon is 130 proof and $250 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com. DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 8th 2021. Here's the headlines for this week. MGP gets a somewhat rebrand to Ross & Squibb Distillery, Stoli hires David Mandell to lead KY Owl construction, and Buffalo Trace releases the details for the 2021 Antique Collection, but there's a big hitter missing this year. Show Notes: MGP gets a pseudo-rebrand to Ross & Squibb Distillery Shout out to @barrelproofmarketing for the inight on brand confusion ADI has released two new books targeted for distillers Vinepair gives a history lesson in Blanton’s toppers Kentucky now has over 10,000,000 barrels of bourbon aging Stoli hires David Mandell to lead the KY Owl Distillery and Park contruction JustDrinks.com predicts drink trends to come in the next few months Diego has opened the first carbon neutral facility in Lebanon, KY Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board puts limits of bourbon purchases Good Deeds releases their first malt whiskey Daylight Wine and Spirits releases Ammunition Straight Bourbon whiskey Westward Whiskey introduces their barrel strength expression Redemption rye has a new ex-cognax cask release Peg Leg Porker releases Pitmaster Reserve 15 year Kentucky Peerless releases their double oak Woodford Reserve releases Chocolate Malt Whisper High West unveils Midwinter Night’s Dram Act 9 Sazerac is releasing is second edition of Mister Sam 2021 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection is missing George T. Stagg @mandelldavid @kentuckyowl @diageo @kentuckybourbontrail @westwardwhiskey @redemptionwhiskey @peglegporker @kentuckypeerless @woodfordreserve @drinkhighwest Support this podcast on Patreon.

Welcome back to Part 3 on our series of "Is Bourbon Broken?" as we analyze the multi-part blog series from Bourbon & Banter. This episode is one that many have been waiting for as we evaluate the variable that is completely out of our control as a consumer and that's distribution and retail. We've challenged this system multiple times and I'm not sure if we'll ever figure out the correct answer, but how do we make sure it's always working in favor of the consumer? How should distributors reward stores differently? What does the future of commerce look like? And should distributors and retailers be wary of the digital age? Show Partners: Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com. Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more. Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com. You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now. Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com. Savor every drop of summer at Total Wine & More! You’re sure to find cool prices in-store or online at TotalWine.com. Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about celebrity whiskey. Each state has its own laws on distribution, is this presenting a lot of challenges for the industry? How do you reward stores without making them take on a bunch of inventory in order to get allocated items? Do you feel that wholesalers and elected representatives are working for the benefit of the consumers? Do you think that it's fair that retailers own the product and can charge whatever they want? At the end of the day, everyone is still making their margin so why do retailers choose to mark it up? Why don't more retailers push back on distributors? Should distributors and retailers be scared about the future? Should we move to a system where highly desirable releases only happen through a distillery website? 

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch 2021. This 12-16 year old bourbon is 114.2 proof and $150 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com. DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. 

Last week, we kicked off the series of analyzing Bourbon & Banter's article on "Is Bourbon Broken?" and this next installment looks at the secondary market. The prices of bourbon have been growing immensely and who knows if the prices will ever drop. Will there ever be an end in sight for consumers buying on the secondary or should companies adjust their prices accordingly? We tackle all this and more. Show Partners: Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com. Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more. Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com. You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now. Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com. Savor every drop of summer at Total Wine & More! You’re sure to find cool prices in-store or online at TotalWine.com. Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about mixing bourbon. Are people forced to buy special bottles on the secondary market these days? Is it foolish to buy bottles for so much more than retail? How can you deter bottle flipping? Is there anything distilleries can do to prevent flipping on the secondary market? At what point will we hit the price ceiling? Is it ethical for distillers to look at pricing on the secondary market to make business decisions? Are auctions setting the secondary prices of bottles? How do auctions get a pass unlike the secondary market? Are current pricing strategies fair to the consumer?

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review a Stagg Jr. Single Barrel pick from the Dallas Bourbon Club. This non-age stated bourbon is 134.4 proof. Let us know what you think. Cheers! Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com. DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

Welcome to the first part in a series of "Is Bourbon Broken?" where we take an in-depth look at a multi-part blog series from Bourbon and Banter. In these four episodes, we are going to look at the consumer, the secondary market, retailers and distributors, and then wrap it up once again evaluating the consumer. In this first part, we take a long hard look at the consumer. Are every day bourbon drinkers the ones to blame? What compels people to stand in line for Blanton's? But ultimately, what can we all do as bourbon enthusiasts to educate the broader mass market? Show Partners: Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com. Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more. Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com. You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now. Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com. Savor every drop of summer at Total Wine & More! You’re sure to find cool prices in-store or online at TotalWine.com. Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about bourbon containers. What has helped grow bourbon to where it is today? Is Fred Minnick to blame? Why are people still standing in line for Blanton's? Limited releases vs. every day shelf items. How do we educate consumers? What were your thoughts on Facebook groups in the early days? What do you find exciting when doing tastings? Is chasing bottles with specific dates or batches part of the problem? What advice would you give to everyday consumers?

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Booker's Tagalong Batch 2021-02. This 6 year 5 month old bourbon is 127.9 proof and $90 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com. DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

Last week, White Dog Trading became the newest member of the Kentucky Distillers' Association. This is the first time a bourbon broker that helps clients source whiskey has become a member. How does White Dog benefit from joining and vice-versa? Union strikes are not uncommon in bourbon. We've seen them happen plenty of times over the past few decades. We will touch on the latest strike to hit the bourbon market. We wrap up the show by talking about who is doing the best at bourbon marketing. Show Partners: Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com. Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more. Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com. You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now. Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com. Savor every drop of summer at Total Wine & More! You’re sure to find cool prices in-store or online at TotalWine.com. Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about forests and barrels. Above the Char Link on White Oak Regeneration: https://www.srs.fs.usda.gov/compass/2020/05/12/white-oak-regeneration-in-canopy-gaps/ White Dog joins the KDA making it the first broker to join. What are your thoughts on brokers joining the KDA? Are there any downsides? Heaven Hill union goes on strike. What impacts do unions have on the bourbon industry? Who's the best at bourbon marketing? Thanks to @bourbonr, @breakingbourbon, and @sippn_corn for joining.

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Hunt & Gather 15 Year Canadian Whisky. This 15 year old Canadian whisky is 121 proof and $70 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com. DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

Back on episode 128, we had Jacob Call on to talk about OZ Tyler. Back then, it was all about TerrePURE and making overnight bourbon. Jacob joins the show again to talk about overcoming the perception that OZ Tyler left behind since it's now been rebranded back to the original name of the site, Green River Distilling. Jacob and the team at Green River have been doing traditional barrel aging since the very beginning and we feel they are producing some of the best bourbon at a young age, to the point where we are seeing contract brands such as Bradshaw Bourbon emerge.  Show Partners: Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com. Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more. Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com. You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now. Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com. Savor every drop of summer at Total Wine & More! You’re sure to find cool prices in-store or online at TotalWine.com. Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about future dusty bourbon. What was it like growing up with family in the whiskey business? Tell us about the history of the Green River project. Talk about the transition from the OZ Tyler name to Green River. Did you draw inspiration for the packaging from historic packaging? What is going to be your flagship offering? Are you using the TerrePURE process? Tell us about the Yellow Banks whiskey. How did you determine your mash bill? Are you doing a lot of experimentation? Talk about your warehouses. How many cases per year will Yellow Banks be? What are the differences between your brands and the contract brands? Are you guiding the brands that are contracting with Green River? Was it hard to sell off barrels early on to fund the business? What do you think will happen to this bourbon when it ages to 6-7 years? What should be changed in the bourbon world? Have you thought about doing a private barrel pick program? Support this Podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Chattanooga Whiskey Bottled In Bond. This 4 year old bourbon is 100 proof and $50 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com. DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

Cigars... they are one of the best ways to enjoy a nice glass of bourbon. The flavors and aromas all become enhanced into a better overall experience. We talked about cigars and bourbon back on episode 129 with Jeremy and Jake from Jake's Cigar Lounge, but this time we're joined by Ibis Lu. She's a Cigar Sommelier and Certified Bourbon Steward, but also operates the Instagram account @Cigarlover12. She's probably been smoking cigars for longer than me and you combined. We talk about aging cigars, fake cubans, and the overhyped barrel aged cigars. Show Partners: Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com. Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more. Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com. You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now. Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com. Savor every drop of summer at Total Wine & More! You’re sure to find cool prices in-store or online at TotalWine.com. Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about age statements. What got you into cigars? When did you have your first cigar? Talk about the history of cigars in Cuba. Are there are a lot of fake Cuban cigars? What cigar do you recommend for pairing with bourbon? How many cigars do you smoke a day? Do you take tasting notes on cigars? How do you get rid of the cigar taste in your mouth? How do they age cigars? What are your thoughts on barrel aged cigars? What is a good amount to spend on a humidor? Tell us about your journey in bourbon. Is the cigar community like the bourbon community? Do you prefer pairing cigars with bourbon or Scotch?

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Smooth Ambler Contradiction Rye. This non-age stated rye is 105 proof and $40 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com. DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. 

Back on Episode 295, the roundtable discussed when does craft whiskey stop becoming craft whiskey. Well, the internet is full of opinions and we heard every last one of them. Many of whom said, "Why don't you get some real craft distillers on the show and ask them?" Well, we took your advice and did just that. We're joined by Becky Harris of Catoctin Creek and Alan Bishop from Spirits of French Lick to talk about what craft means to them. We also discuss their thoughts on sourcing and how they overcome the craft stigma to set themselves apart from the rest. Show Partners: Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com. Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more. Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com. You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now. Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com. Savor every drop of summer at Total Wine & More! You’re sure to find cool prices in-store or online at TotalWine.com. Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the influence of social media for brands. What got you into whiskey? What does craft mean to you? How do we get past the craft stigma? What are the positives of being in craft whiskey? How do you feel about the sourced whiskey game? Has the popularity of bourbon helped your business? Talk about your experience over the past year. @catoctincreek, @spiritsoffrenchlick Support this Podcast on Patreon  

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Walker's Cay Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 90 proof and $37 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Maker's Mark RC6. This is Maker's Mark's first national limited release. It's non-age stated, 108.2 proof, and $60 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: This whiskey in this review was purchased by Bourbon Pursuit for reviewing. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's the 60th Bourbon Community Roundtable where we've got 3 topics of recent news to cover. Beam Suntory is launching new subscription models for Little Book and Maker's Mark which makes us wonder if this trend will continue for most major distilleries. Fall release season is around the corner so Jordan from Breaking Bourbon picks out 5 releases to discuss. Lastly, George Dickel has released a bourbon, which is the same recipe as their Tennessee Whiskey, why would they do that? Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about climate and the aging process. Bourbon Subscriptions 5 Limited Releases to Watch Dickel releases bourbon. Thanks to Blake (@bourbonr @drinkseelbachs), Jordan from Breaking Bourbon (@breakingbourbon), and Brian (@sippn_corn) for joining in another lively discussion. Support this Podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Old Forester 2021 Birthday Bourbon. This 12 year old bourbon is 104 proof and $130 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon

So what is a dusty bourbon? Well... it's just an old bourbon. The idea was that these were bottles that used to sit on the shelves and collect dust. Now a days, these are rare gems and lots of bourbon hunters go crazy looking for them. Unfortunately, the days of finding a 1980s Old Grand Dad on the shelf are long gone, but we sit down and analyze what makes a dusty a dusty. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about yeast. What's the allure of dusties? What makes dusties different? Are there any dusities you should stay away from? Let's discuss bourbon hunting? What do you consider a dusty? What's your best dusty score?  What are your thoughts on decanters? Support this Podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Taconic Mizunara Cask Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 107 proof and $90 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon

About twice a year we have a guest on the show that just amazes us with the science behind bourbon. Stuart Williams is a professor that directs the microfluidic systems laboratory at the University of Louisville. He discovered that when bourbon begins evaporating, it creates a web that resembles constellations in the dark sky. Stuart was able to document his findings and show how bourbons that come from the same distillery create similar webs. Pictures speak louder than words so make sure you check out his website at WhiskeyWebs.org to see the stunning representations. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about sourced whiskey. How did you become so passionate about this research? Tell us about fluid dynamics. What is a whiskey web? Talk about filtration. Is it good to have more colloids vs. less? Tell us about the physics of evaporation. What proof were you testing at? Will 3 different bottles of the same whiskey have the same pattern? Which bourbon didn't show a web? What other things could you test with this research? Could you use the whiskey web to determine taste? WhiskeyWebs.org Support this Podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Bespoken Spirits Rye Whiskey. This rapid aged rye whiskey is 100 proof and $40 MSRP (375mL). Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon

We’ve had the opportunity to interview lots of great people from Michter's such as their Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson, President Joseph Magliocco, and their former Master Distiller Pam Heilmann. When Pam retired in April of 2019, Dan McKee stepped in. Dan worked alongside Pam at Jim Beam for many years and has a wealth of industry knowledge. We talk about selecting barrels for the 20 and 25 year old releases and learn more about what goes into their everyday products. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about local store relationships. What's the funniest animal you've owned as a pet? Are there ever any bad barrels when selecting Michter's 20 and 25? What is your process for choosing older releases? How did you train your palate to pick these releases? What was it like working at Jim Beam? What can you tell us about your yeast? Talk about the distillery. Do you have specific protocols for picking barrels from certain places in the warehouse? How big are the batches? Is it easier to blend smaller batches? What was the transition like to Master Distiller? Do you overlap job tasks with Andrea? Are you a morning taster? What variations do you see in barrel proof? Does lower entry proof age well? What about the heat cycled warehouses? Talk about the toasted barrel craze. Any professional goals for 2021? @michterswhiskey, @michtersmasterdistiller Support this Podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Dubliner Irish Whiskey. This 3 year old whiskey is 80 proof and $30 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon

On this Bourbon Community Roundtable, we do an in-depth analysis of The Bourbon King, two episodes from the Netflix series Heist. Now I have to warn you, if you haven't seen it yet this is full of spoilers. If you plan on watching it, go watch it and then come back and listen. On the 2nd half of the episode, we talk about the new executive order coming straight from the Whitehouse that is going to put a microscope on the alcohol industry and look at unfair trade practices when it comes to distribution and competition. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about tasting notes. Breaking down Netflix's Heist featuring Pappygate, the story of Gilbert “Toby” Curtsinger, an employee at Buffalo Trace that stole hundreds of thousands of dollars of Pappy Van Winkle. Do you think Buffalo Trace let them film on property? Who is Moonshine Mike? How do you steal a barrel and where do you hide it? What are your thoughts on the sheriff sensing it was an inside job right away? Do you think the sheriff was media hungry? What do you think of the sentencing? How was his wife not aware? How will the executive order on promoting competition in the American economy impact distributors and distribution? Thanks to @bourbonr, @breakingbourbon, and @sippn_corn for joining. Support this Podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Three Chord Strange Collaboration Batch 1. This 2-6 year old finished bourbon is 99 proof and $45 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon

$1000 bottles, store price gouging, and bots taking bottles. These are some of the most annoying trends with bourbon releases. The team gets together and analyzes what we're seeing in the current environment and air some grievances, but we always try to find a silver lining on what we see as some positive trends as well. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about limited edition bottles. What do you think of the press releases? Would you rather see special whiskey in limited edition bottles? What do you think about price gouging at the store level? How should liquor stores handle limited releases? What is annoying about limited releases? Any advantages to online releases? Support this Podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Bradshaw Bourbon. This 2 year old bourbon is 103.8 proof and $40 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon

We talk about barrel picks all the time on the show and we do 40-50 barrels selections per year with our private barrel program. But instead of hearing us talk about it, let's hear some stories from the people that live and breathe it every day. We're joined by Macaulay Minton of Wilderness Trail and John Wadell of Peerless Distilling. Both of these guys run the barrel select programs for each distillery. We get to know more about the programs and the dos and don'ts of going on a barrel pick. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about his dental routine. How did you get into bourbon and working on single barrel programs? Is there a certain percentage you are allowed to allocate to private barrels? What do you like and not like about other barrel picks? How do remote picks work? Are remote picks harder than in person? Are there some people that are hard to please with picks? What gets you blacklisted? What are things you shouldn't do on a pick? What do you think of stickers? What is the most positive thing that has happened for you working in a private barrel program? @thebourbonswami, @wildernesstraildistillery, @sir_jwadell, @kentuckypeerless Support this Podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Heaven's Door Redbreast Master Blenders Edition. This 10 year old finished bourbon is 100 proof and $100 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon

Lisa Wicker should be a household name to any bourbon enthusiast. You will get to learn about her pedigree of industry and blending experience in this episode. Before ever meeting Lisa, people in the industry would tell me she had one of the best palates. She has been involved with lots of brands from the very beginning and played a critical role to their future success. Now, she leads Widow Jane and gives us some tricks on her blending techniques. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about bottle modifications. What is the craziest fashion trend you've ever worn? How did you get into working in whiskey? How did you end up at Widow Jane? Was it a big change moving from the Mid West to NYC? Who is Widow Jane? What is the history of the brand? Do you store barrels in the mine? Why do you use the mineral water for proofing? How do you decide which distillate goes into each product? Do you enjoy the challenge of putting a unique spin on a sourced whiskey? Do you have a whiskey blending playlist? @widow_jane @lbwicker Support this Podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Still Austin Cask Strength. This 2 year old bourbon is 118 proof and $65 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon

As bourbon grows with popularity, so do the prices. The roundtable comes together to discuss how to price bourbon and if there is a good formula that can make everyone happy. There are lots of new sourced brands on the market, and more and more investors coming in every week to buy barrels, what will the sourced market look like in a few years? Lastly, we examine the business side of the industry and we try to figure out who is more important, the master distiller or the salesperson? Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about private barrel picks. How should you appropriately price bourbon? What's the future of the sourced whiskey market? Who's more important, the master distiller or the salesperson? Support this Podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Michter's 10 Year Bourbon 2021 Release. This 10 year old bourbon is 94.4 proof and $150 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon

Back in 2018 when we launched Pursuit Series single barrels, we didn't know where we were headed. We just knew it was fun to select barrels and get them out there. Little did we know, we would be heading down a path that would create a blend that just won Runner-Up in the first ever Ascot Awards. Pursuit United is a culmination of over a year of work by partnering with distilleries to create a bourbon that would appeal to the mass market of educated bourbon consumers, like you. In this episode, Fred asks Kenny and Ryan the questions on what it took to get here and what the future entails. Pursuit United will be available once again starting in July of 2021 on @drinkseelbachs and on retail shelves across KY, TN, TX, GA, IL, and CO. Stay tuned for more updates by following @pursuitspirits, including the anticipated release of Pursuit United Rye. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about pairing bourbon with food. Talk about the packaging. How did you come up with your blend? Tell us about each of the components. What were the challenges when creating this product? What did you think about the feedback? How do you feel about the negative feedback? When is the next release? @pursuitspirits Support this Podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Daviess County Straight Bourbon Finished in French Oak Casks. This non-age stated bourbon is 96 proof and $47 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon

The name Ingram may ring some bells. If you are in the tech space, you may have heard of Ingram Micro. If you are in logistics you may know Ingram Barge Company. If you are in the Nashville area, the name Ingram is well known for philanthropy. And now, Ingram is taking on bourbon. We're joined by Hank Ingram, the founder of Ingram River Aged Whiskey. The concept is pretty simple. Take a bunch of barges they own, put a bunch of bourbon barrels on it, and let them age in a floating warehouse. Hank tells us more about his family, what led him to start this company, and the legal hurdles you face when you are trying to store thousands of gallons of bourbon on a river. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about dusties. What was your favorite video game growing up? Tell us about your family history. How did you go from tow boating to bourbon? How did you raise capital? Talk about your floating rickhouse. What were the initial barrels that convinced you the bourbon changed on the river? Can you explain the vessels? What makes the barge unique to the aging process? Did you ever work on a barge? Does the barge have to stay stationary? What's the strangest thing your family has had to move on a barge? Do you envision having more barges aging whiskey in the future? Have you thought about aging barrels for other brands on the river? Where do you source from? How did you decide who to partner with? What have been your biggest hurdles? @IngramWhiskey Support this Podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Elijah Craig Barrel Proof A121. This 12 year old bourbon is 123.6 proof and $70 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. @elijahcraig Support this Podcast on Patreon

Bernie Lubbers is one of the great treasures of the modern whiskey era. A few years ago, he gave us a deep dive on Bottled in Bond in episode 89, but now he's back and we're talking Mellow Corn, Parker's Heritage selections, and where the market is headed with pricing bourbon on the shelf. Stay tuned until the end for a performance of Whiskey, Honey, and Loving. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about flasks. Has Bottled in Bond changed since the last time you were on the show? How many bourbons are Bottled in Bond? Do you still love Bottled in Bond? Talk about corn whiskey. Tell us about the process for selecting Parker's. Where do you think we are going with pricing in bourbon? Do you get any pushback from retailers about having allocated items in your gift shop? What are your thoughts on private barrel picks? Talk about the Black Velvet acquisition. @BernieLubbers Support this Podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Michter's Barrel Strength Kentucky Rye Whiskey. This non-age stated rye is 110.8 proof and $100 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. @michterswhiskey Support this Podcast on Patreon

Today's roundtable tackles a new topic that took most of us by surprise. About 3 weeks ago, when I was doing a label approval for our Four Roses barrels, I was given an additional contract to sign that was called a non-mutilation agreement. Basically stating that we agree to not add any stickers, wax, or anything that alters the package. Will other distilleries follow suit? What happens if someone breaks the contract? We give our opinions on that plus, if we think blends are going to become the new single barrels. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about what smooth means. Four Roses bans stickers for private barrels. Is this good or bad? Do you think other distilleries will start banning stickers? How do you enforce the ban? Does the ban violate freedom of speech? How can you set your pick apart from other picks? Are blends the new single barrels? Thanks to @bourbonr, @breakingbourbon, and @sippn_corn for joining. Support this Podcast on Patreon