It's Bourbon Community Roundtable #93 and this time we're talking about vintage labels. We've seen a resurgence of them over the past few years and there are more coming out from big distillers and smaller lesser known brands. I wanted to ask if there is any value in doing this before focusing on something more modern. There is a feeling of nostalgia but it also made me think about movie reboots and if all the good ideas are taken. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about used barrels with rye whiskey. What value is there in reviving old labels? NDPs or small craft producers taking something from a family lineage NDP or craft just to have a story azerac doing the Pre-Pro bottle labels Big names like Beam now doing 16yr OGD Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Frey Ranch Single Grain Series 100% Wheat Whiskey. This 3 year old whiskey is 100 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 April 26th 2024. Master Distiller Alex Castle will be leaving Old Dominick, the bourbon spirits market size to rise up to US$12 billion by 2030, The WoodWork Collective and David Jennings announce Raconteur Rye.Show Notes: Master Distiller Alex Castle will be leaving Old Dominick Give 270 has a new giveaway Three Chord Bourbon x Allman Brothers Band Shelter Distilling expands to Montrose, Colorado ourbon Spirits Market Size to Rise up to US$12 Billion by 2030 A ransomware attack on a Swedish logistics company London Marathon runner tasted a different glass of wine each mile of the race. Garrison Brothers Lady Bird J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery Combat Infantry Badge (CIB) Bourbon Bulleit 12-Year-Old Rye Whiskey Derby City Gaming and Hotel “Thoroughbred Collection” New Riff Silver Grove Bourbon and Silver Grove Rye Basil Hayden Subtle Smoke LuxRow Blood Oath Pact 10 Chattanooga Whiskey Founder’s 12th Anniversary Blend Two Souls Spirits Spring 2024 release The WoodWork Collective and David Jennings Raconteur Rye @olddominick @give270 @threechordbourbon @shelterdistilling @garrisonbros @jmattingly1845 @bulleit @newriff @basilhayden @luxrowdistillers @chattwhiskey @rarebird101 Support this podcast on Patreon

This is a question that has plagued me for quite some time and it was inspired by my wife. Ryan and I continuously evaluate brands as we compare what works and what doesn't when it comes to consumers. We get caught in this trap of continually pivoting as we see other brands catch fire because of a bottle design or some element. So my wife asked me, Kenny, are you are whiskey company or a marketing company? It caught me off guard and I really had to think about the broader landscape so I wanted to make an episode where we talk about what it takes to be a whiskey company versus a marketing company. There's probably a lot of brands out there that think of themselves as a whiskey company but in reality they are a marketing company. Here's the thing, there's no wrong answer. Marketing plays a crucial role in whiskey and it could be the marketing that's in your face through point of sale, it could be bottle shapes, or even the lack of marketing to keep the mystique alive. I thoroughly enjoyed this conversation and it probably requires us to hit this topic again in the future if you send us your feedback. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about Maker's Mark and their role in bourbon resurgence. Where do you spend your first initial investment? Does the liquid even matter? Does having special distillation, heirloom grains, or anything else really matter? Can a big distiller be considered a marketing company? When a big distiller creates the same label with different colors and proofs, is that about the whiskey? How do you transition from being a marketing company to a whiskey company? Does it matter if you're getting it from one source like everyone else? Do you need to cater to the neophytes or the mass consumer market? If Fred Minnick starts a brand would you put your money in marketing or the whiskey? Can you be a whiskey company if you are using MGP? Is a lack of marketing considered marketing? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review High N' Wicked Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey. This 5 year old whiskey is 98.2 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 April 19th 2024. Maker's Mark, Ed Lee, and Messermeister come out with a knife collaboration, Bourbon Women announces the 2024 SIP Scholarship Program, and Keeneland Race Course and Maker’s Mark launch Greats of the Gate.Show Notes: Woodford Reserve Distillery has unfairly influenced a 2022 unionization vote Maker's Mark, Ed Lee, and Messermeister come out with a knife collaboration Bargo 459 joins The Kentucky Distillers’ Association Bourbon Women is pleased to announce the 2024 SIP Scholarship Program Hard Truth Distilling Co. to break ground on its third rackhouse Old Line Spirits 51 Rye Whiskey Keeneland Race Course and Maker’s Mark launch Greats of the Gate @woodfordreserve @makersmark @chefedwardlee @messer_meister @bourbonwomen @hardtruthspirits @oldlinespirits @keeneland Support this podcast on Patreon

Whenever you get into a hobby that involved enthusiasts and collecting, there are trends that begin to appear. Allocations, raffles, lotteries, fakes, these are things that become common. One of those hobbies that has quite a few parallels is sneakers. Matt Kusek is a certified whiskey enthusiasts as a write for Malt Review but he's also the host of the Swoosh Life podcast that focuses on sneaker heads. He joins the show to give us an insight into how the shoe game and bourbon have so many similarities that, in Matt's words, sneakers are 20 years ahead of bourbon. We dive into the types of collectors, brands, sales, allocation, and so much more. If sneakers are really 20 years ahead of bourbon, who knows what the next few years has in store for us. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about Buffalo Trace expansion. What's the similarity between Jordan's and bourbon releases? Are there raffles, lotteries, or hunts for sneakers? Who is the distributor and how do they own the retail store? If Nike is number one, who would they be compared to and who's the next biggest? Mom and pop stores vs chains and how are they getting pushed out of the market? What about saving and storing vs wearing or drinking? Is it Jordan and then everyone else? What is the Heaven Hill or Weller of sneakers? Are there people that only collect one type of shoe? Bourbon hits all walks of life or does the sneaker enthusiasts hit all walks of life? Are there sneakers that don't need marketing? Do you look differently at people who are rookies and buy stuff just because they want every color? Are there any value brands that hold up over time? Are there some LTOs that flop? Are replicas or fakes a big problem? Has the market gone down because everything became a limited edition? Was Blue Run able to sneakerize the industry in your opinion? @mattkusek Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Jack Daniel's 12 Year Batch 2 Tennessee Whiskey. This 12 year old whiskey is 107 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 April 12th 2024. Derby season is abuzz in Louisville with lots of events, Jeff Hopmayer joins the board for Staghorn, and 18 new whiskey releases.Show Notes: A21 Wine & Spirits has agreed to purchase the Noble Oak American Whiskey brand from Edrington Slow Pass Bourbon Co. LLC is considering opening a $70 million distillery in Springfield, Ky Three limited-time Derby experiences for booking on Buzzard's Roost The Woodford Reserve $1,000 and $5,000 Mint Julep cups charity program Staghorn has appointed Brindiamo Group founder Jeff Hopmayer to serve on the advisory board Chef Edward Lee recently released a cookbook called Bourbon Land Michter’s 10 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon 2XO The Kiawah Blend High n’ Wicked cask strength rye and bourbon High West Bourye Jim Gaffigan launches Fathertime Bourbon Ezra Brooks 99 Port Wine Cask Finish Ole Smoky Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey Booker’s Springfield Batch BHAKTA 2014 Bourbon A. Overholt Chicken Cock Double Oak Single Barrel BLACKENED Whiskey 2024 edition of Rye the Lighting Savage & Cooke Distillery Howling Mob Bourbon Whiskey and Bloody Butcher Bourbon Whiskey Still Austin Ruby Red Port Barrel Finished Straight Rye Whiskey Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond 25th Anniversary Edition Orphan Barrel Indigo’s Hour Straight Bourbon Whiskey Milam & Greene Whiskey 2024 Wildlife Collection: Mockingbird Single Barrel Bourbon @nobleoak @buzzardsroostwhiskey @woodfordreserve @brindiamogroup @chefedwardlee @michterswhiskey @2xowhiskey @dixon_dedman @highnwicked @drinkhighwest @jimgaffigan @fathertimebourbon @ezrabrooksbourbon @olesmokey @bhaktaspirits @chickencockwhiskey @blackenedamericanwhiskey @savageandcooke @stillatx @heavenhilldistillery @milamandgreenewhiskey Support this podcast on Patreon

You hear us talk about dusty bourbon on the show too often. We keep beating that dead horse because it's a chance to drink history and have a completely different whiskey than what's in the bottle today. Vintage spirits are on the rise and have gone from an underground enthusiast crowd into the mainstream. Aaron Goldfarb is a distinguished author and he joins the show to talk about his new book titled Dusty Booze. This books has a storyline with finding a dusty goldmine but goes into the story of decanters, minis, and the hunt for rare bottles. It's now available on Amazon and lots of different outlets. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about bourbon with malted barely with the highest secondary grain. What made you want to write a book on vintage whiskey? What were some of those iconic decanters that were made? What was the story you saw form out of the glut era? Did you ever talk to store owners and ask why they would sit on inventory for this long? Why did decanters become so popular or unpopular? What makes a dusty spirit different from today's current releases? Did anyone come up with a better term other than dusty funk? Why was there a bigger market for minis back in the day? Talk about the storyline and how Kevin came across this goldmine and any legal implications. How many bar owners did you talk to about running a business on vintage spirits? What do you think has to be considered vintage? Was there any information in the book that teaches you how to date code vintage whiskey? Is there a chance that any store is left with any dusty bottles? Do you need dusty cocktail ingredients? @aarongoldfarb Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Heaven Hill Heritage Collection 18 Year. This 18 year old bourbon is 120 proof and $300 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.

Subscribe to Behind The Pursuit: From Bourbon to Brand Stemming from the episode of the Bourbon Pursuit podcast with John Foster of Ragged Branch, today's episode comes from a few listeners of the show, Todd and David, as Kenny discusses the process of choosing distributors specifically for Pursuit Spirits. We touch on topics such as the three-tier distribution system, the role of distributors in the industry, and the challenges of market launches and incentives. We also share experiences with different distributors and the importance of building relationships in the industry. Kenny discusses the challenges of managing skew sprawl and UPCs in the bourbon industry. He explains how Pursuit Spirits aims to strike a balance between batch uniqueness and consumer familiarity. He also shares advice for those starting in the industry, emphasizing the importance of education and consulting. He explores different distribution models and the goals brands may have, whether it's long-term brand building or rapid expansion... but where is Pursuit in all of this? We hit on: Choosing the right distributor being crucial for a brand's success in the spirits industry. The three-tier distribution system presenting both challenges and opportunities for brands. Market launches, market support, and building relationships with distributors and retailers. Different distributors strengths and capabilities, and the importance of finding the right one for each market. Brand consideration of their goals and a distribution model that aligns with their long-term plans, whether it's slow brand building or rapid expansion. Pursuit Spirits' own business model. and much more. Be sure to visit pursuitspirits.com and click on Visit Us to book a tasting or barrel selection experience. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at [email protected].

The past few weeks there have been lots of speculation about non distilling producers, or known as NDPs, being able to survive. The market has shifted and there are images of sourced brands that have prices slashed on shelves along with others having their facilities up for sale. This makes us wonder what is in store for the remainder of the year. We talk about what makes NDPs special and how every big distillery was also a NDP at one point as well. There's also a message coming directly from Barrell Bourbon about their current listings. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about hot sauce and bourbon. What will happen to NDPs in 2024? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Chattanooga Whiskey White Port Cask Finished. This 5 year old whiskey is 95 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 March 29th 2024. A new service is launching dubbed the Kentucky Bourbon Retreat, Hard Truth Distilling Co. announced the introduction of Farmer’s Reserve, and Woodford Reserve drops a $15,000 bottle for the 150th Kentucky Derby.Show Notes: A new service is launching dubbed the Kentucky Bourbon Retreat Indiana has new liquor laws West Virginia's legislature has approved a bill that would allow individuals to distill Better Business Bureau warns of scam bourbon retail sites and social media accounts 50 Cent has filed a $6 million embezzlement case against Beam Suntory A vintage Perone beer can has sold for an astounding $62,830 Hard Truth Distilling Co. Farmer’s Reserve 15 STARS First West Bourbon Woodford Reserve 150th Kentucky Derby @50cent @barrelglobal @hardtruthspirits @woodfordreserve Support this podcast on Patreon

Understanding how the bourbon geek thinks has been something that has dumbfounded us for years. We talk about it all the time on roundtables and other episodes where we try to guess why consumers purchase in certain ways. And for the longest time, you all have asked why don't we get someone on the show that can talk about the psychology of a bourbon drinker. Well, ask and you shall receive. In this very special episode, Jim White, the Founder and President of Reality Check consulting who has a background in bourbon advertising and psychology joins the show to talk about how people think and how brands can develop a story. This episode will dive into the psychology of scarcity, pricing, limited editions, repeat purchases, and so much more. During different segments you're going to come away realizing a reason why you chase and hunt bottles as well. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about enforcement of bottled in bond. Can you give a background about Reality Check Consulting? What research methods do you use to get consumer feedback? What things in our psychology trigger us to look at certain brands? How does a brand like Weller go from zero to hero in such a short time? Why should brands create limited edition offerings from a psychology perspective? Is there another type of consumer that just isn't worried about status? How does a brand focused on volume market differently? Why would someone purchase the same bottle over and over again? Do other categories have fans that want their own hobby to fail? Is brand loyalty dead? How do you attract a customer to look beyond what's safe? Does FOMO play a big role? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Broken Barrel Honey Smoke Reserva American Whiskey. This 6 year old whiskey is 110 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 March 22nd 2024. MGP is getting ready to battle two cities in court, more partnerships in golf are coming from Elijah Craig and Blade & Bow, and Rabbit Hole released the newest member of its Distillery Series, Heretofore.Show Notes: MGP is getting ready to battle two cities in court Thieves got away with bourbon that was inside a parked truck Bespoken Spirits new headquarters in Lexington, Kentucky Flying Ace announced an educational scholarship program with Folds of Honor Barmen 1873 Bourbon is rolling out its first-ever celebrity partnership with Lainey Wilson Blade and Bow Kentucky partners with golf champion Wyndham Clark Elijah Craig welcomes the 2024 PGA Championship Jack & Ginger Ale Knob Creek collaborates on a limited release with LL Cool J Penelope Rio is set to arrive on shelves in March Maker’s Mark has now launched the London edition of its Wood Finishing City Series Rabbit Hole Distillery released the newest member of its Distillery Series “Heretofore“ @bespokenspirits @flyingacespirits @foldsofhonor @barmen1873 @bladeandbowwhiskey @elijahcraig @jackdaniels_us @knobcreek @peneoplebourbon @makersmark @rabbithole @raekwon @llcoolj Support this podcast on Patreon

Before there were Instagram and TikTok influencers, YouTubers, and even podcasters, there were writers. I'm not talking about bloggers. But esteemed authors and journalists who dug into a story and took it to magazines and other trade publications. The times have changed, our attention spans have gotten much shorter, and now running a story is much different. To help gives more insight into whiskey journalism we've invited Maggie Kimberl back on the show. She's the Content Editor of American Whiskey Magazine and writes some of the most intriguing stories in bourbon today. We all evaluate how access to distilleries have gotten harder through PR firms and how there may be a dilution of valuable content and talent because the barrier to entry is much lower through social media. It's not all doom and gloom though. We are now in a time when there is more to talk about than ever in bourbon. There is going to be no shortage of new stories with the boom of so many new distilleries and entrants into the market. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the lobbying groups for whiskey and bourbon. How small was the community in whiskey journalism? Has the access to the distillers and the people changed over the years? How many more events are there now? At what point in time did you start seeing a shift happen from deep articles vs click bait? If writing isn't a means to have a successful career did judging whiskey awards feel like a next step? What are the types of stories in magazines that people really latch on to and engage? Do stories on bourbon tourism do well? Do you see a problem with short-form content and those content creators? Do big brands even need bourbon media any longer? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Widow Jane Paradigm Rye. This non-age stated rye is 93 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 15th 2024. A brewer in Ohio is suing the federal government saying he should be able to distil as a hobby, Chattanooga is releasing DISCOVER EXPERIMENTAL BATCH 037: ANCIENT WHEAT!, and Limestone Branch Distillery has announced the second release in its Yellowstone Special Finishes Collection: Yellowstone Rum Cask FinishShow Notes: Should the government be able to stop you from making whiskey? Buzzard’s Roost Ambuzzador Rebel 100 6-Year Bourbon Chattanooga is releasing Discover Experimental Batch 037: Ancient Wheat Yellowstone Rum Cask Finish @buzzardsroostwhiskey @chattwhiskey @rebelbourbon @yellowstonebourbon Support this podcast on Patreon

The platform of this podcast was to help connect listeners to the brands they see on the store shelves. As time has gone on, sometimes we discover there really isn't much substance to a brand. But today's guest is the very opposite. I found myself enthralled with our guests history in the culinary world and what he's doing to make his whiskey be one that many can appreciate from the liquid to the blending. Sean Josephs is the Co-Founder & Master Blender behind Pinhook. You know all those bottles with race horses on the label and different colored wax. Sean talks about getting his start in restaurants, grinding it out, and eventually working at some of the world's premier establishments and becoming such a decorated wine sommelier that he would be considered famous by those standards. Consider me a bit star struck by the time this episode is over. Then he finds a new passion in bourbon and opens up one of the first ever whiskey bars in Brooklyn and eventually left to start Pinkhook bourbon. Sean's passion comes through and we learn the secret decoder ring to knowing more about all his Pinhook bottles and what's in store for the future. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about adding water to high proof whiskey. What's your background and how did you get into bourbon? As a somm, do you remember the most epic wine? Was starting a whiskey bar in 2008 in Brooklyn a bold move? Were barrel selections becoming popular for restaurants in 2016? What made you want to stop doing bars and restaurants and start the whiskey brand? Can you explain the packaging and colors and how they work? What makes your whiskey special and what are you doing there? How long do you think you'll have enough whiskey to keep your projects going? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review New Riff Bohemian Wheat Bourbon. This 8 year old bourbon is 117.9 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 8th 2024. National Buzzard's Day is a thing, Old Forester releases High Angel's Share, and Pursuit Spirits finally releases their long awaited United Double Oaked Bourbon.Show Notes: March 15 is National Buzzards Day Ohio Liquor Goes Irish Old Forester High Angels’ Share Milam & Greene 2024 Wildlife Collection, the Golden Eagle Single Barrel Bourbon New Riff Distilling 8-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Woodford Reserve 2024 commemorative Derby bottle 15 STARS First West Rye Whiskey and 8&15 YO Private Stock Fine Aged Bourbon The Perfect Fifth 14-year-old American Whiskey Michter’s US*1 Barrel Strength Kentucky Straight Rye Peerless Toasted Bourbon - Batch 1 @buzzardsroostwhiskey @ohioliquor @oldforester @milamandgreenewhiskey @newriff @woodfordreserve @15starsbourbon @michterswhiskey @kentuckypeerless @theperfectfifth @bourbon_colonel86 Support this podcast on Patreon

Is the bourbon boom really over? Some people think it may. Fred Minnick recently touched on this subject and people began talking about their ideas and buying habits. We wanted to tackle that by touching on publicly traded companies, heresay from our own experience, and if we truly think craft and NDPs are in trouble. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about international market not working. Publicly traded companies like Diego and Brown Forman. Consumers buying mainstays. Retailers are cautious about new brands. International markets. Economic impacts Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Fireside Hazmat Proof Bourbon. This 6 year old bourbon is 141.2 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 March 1st 2024. Brown‑Forman Corporation has sold its Jack Daniel Cooperage to Independent Stave Company, Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America say that premiumization is dead, and Lost Lantern releases their Spring 2024 collection.Show Notes: Brown‑Forman Corporation has sold its Jack Daniel Cooperage The Ripken Experience Maker's Mark labels for inspirational woman Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey has opened a whiskey lodge in Aspen Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America say that premiumization is dead Justins’ has sued Kentucky ABC Kentucky lawmakers are moving to close loopholes in the Vintage Distilled Spirits law FC Dallas partnership with Campari America Kentucky Bourbon Festival ticket sale dates Jaywalk Straight Rye Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing City Series Singapore Edition Lost Lantern Spring 2024 collection Evan Williams Single Barrel Bourbon with a commemorative 52nd Edition Gold Pegasus Pin Still Austin Whiskey Co Bottled in Bond Straight Rye Whiskey Total Eclipse Kentucky Straight Bourbon McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams and Garrison Bros Whiskey Pecan & Pralines @jackdaniels_us @brownforman @makersmark @stranahans @fcdallas @campariusa @wildturkey @longbranchbourbon @kybourbonfest @lostlanternwhiskey @evanwilliamsbourbon @ewbourbonexperience @stillatx @caseyjonesdistillery @garrisonbros @mcconnellsicecreams Support this podcast on Patreon

The barrel is a magical component to the creation of bourbon and nearly 95% of all bourbon goes into white oak. But what's the problem with this? Bourbon can only be used in a charred barrel once. After that, it needs to find a new home. Now that may sound wasteful but the bourbon market is only a very small contributor to the current white oak problem. To help us better understand about forestry and the white oak supply I've invited Daana Baxley from the Nature Conservancy in Kentucky to join the show. She gives some great insight into the current state of white oak trees and what is currently being done to protect our forests. I've never known what it takes to manage forests and this episode will give you an insight into grading and how invasive species of trees continue to decline the white oak population. But more so, Daana gives us some insight if we will ever experience a white oak shortage in the future and what we can do to help protect it. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about running out of old bourbon. What took you on a path to nature preservation? How are you able to achieve your mission without using scare tactics? Why is Appalachia so important? What does "protection" mean in the sense of a nature conservancy? What is the current status of the white oak species? What is the proper way to manage these forests? What does high grading mean? How has ash or maple impacted the population? How many years into the future are we looking at when we will see a big white oak problem? Is the bourbon industry a problem or is there another industry to blame? Do bourbon drinkers even care if there is sustainability practices happening? Do other industries join in conversation practices like the white oak initiative? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Jack Daniel's Distillery Series #12 Tennessee Whiskey Finished in Oloroso Sherry Casks. This non-age stated whiskey is 90 proof and $42 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.

Subscribe to Behind The Pursuit: From Bourbon to Brand On today’s show we discuss the topic of innovation in the bourbon industry and explore the different ways brands differentiate their products. We question whether there is anything left to innovate and the reasons consumers are drawn to finished whiskeys. The conversation touches on the marketing strategies of brands and the perception of American finished whiskeys compared to other products such as Scotch whisky. We also discuss the potential for future innovations and trends in the industry. We hit on: The bourbon industry has seen a proliferation of finished whiskeys as a way for brands to differentiate their products. Consumers are drawn to finished whiskeys because they are marketed as unique and innovative. Do you think brands see these as products missing in the market, or is it a way to grab new consumers? There is still room for innovation in the use of different types of oak and wood influences in bourbon production. The perception and marketing of finished whiskeys differ between bourbon and Scotch whisky. Future innovations in the industry may involve exploring new flavors and blending techniques. and much more. Be sure to visit pursuitspirits.com and click on Visit Us to book a tasting or barrel selection experience. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at [email protected].

There's a few things we talk about from time to time on the show. Sometimes it's RTDs, sometimes it's tequlia, and one spirit that seems to make it's way into more conversations is American Single Malt whiskey. However, I told myself that if we're going to talk about American Single Malt whiskey then we need a person that can really go indepth. What better person than Steve Hawley who is the President of the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission. Steve joins the show to talk about his background starting Westland Distillery and then formed the commission. We talk about the growth of the category, production methods, exports, and it's current journey to being recognized by the rest of the world. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the effect of climate change. How did you get into the whiskey business? If barley grows so well then why isn't there a history of it? What is the importance of trying to make American Single Malt an approved category? How did you become the president of the commission? How have case sales grown from 2010 till today? Is the SMWC analogous to DISCUS or KDA? What is the proposed definition of American Single Malt and what's the current status of it? What rules were valid versus ones that seemed really weird? Why do people prefer pot still for single malt production? When a heritage brand creates a single malt like Jim Beam and Heaven Hill, does this hurt or help? Are American Single Malt producers starting to look at exports instead of domestic education? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Hemingway Rye Signature Edition. This non-age stated rye is 102 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 February 16th 2024. Bulleit and Redemption whiskey brands are back at it in court, MGP is suing the city of Williamstown, Kentucky, and Woodford Reserve has released its annual limited-edition, high-proof expression Woodford Reserve Batch Proof.Show Notes: Woodford Reserve teams up with Sergio Hudson and Anifa Mvuemb for fashion Bulleit and Redemption whiskey brand are back at it in court Staghorn has named Lisa Wicker as the first Master Distiller MGP is suing the city of Williamstown, Kentucky Woodford Reserve Batch Proof Bulleit American Single Malt High n’ Wicked Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey Chattanooga Whiskey Barrel Finishing Series: White Port Cask Finished Gin & Juice By Dre and Snoop @woodfordreserve @bulleit @redemptionwhiskey @chattwhiskey @drdre @snoopdogg Support this podcast on Patreon

Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, we finally see the re-emergence of Ed Bley. Ed has been a previous guest on the podcast that was from way back in 2018. So if you just started listening to Bourbon Pursuit, then you probably have no idea of the impact Ed had on the bourbon world during that time. Ed went into hiding and went on a mission to bring some new whiskey to the world and he's now back presenting his new line called Old Stubborn. We talk about his background in blending and the journey he took from working at Cork N Bottle, picking barrels, and being a big influence in the larger bourbon community to losing hope on building a distillery and then quickly pivoting to find whiskey that wasn't available on the open market. This is one of the most anticipated interviews for many of you long-time listeners so enjoy this episode with Ed Bley. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about sustainability and new oak barrels. What is your background and what were you doing on the retail side? How often do you reject barrels during a barrel selection? Can you give some background on Old Baldy? Why would you want to leave a comfortable position to do your own thing? Why would you want to start a distillery versus sourcing barrels? How did you search for whiskey to use? Why did you call the whiskey Old Stubborn? Is there a reason why you put the word "old" on your bottles? Can you talk about how you ended up on the bottle? What went into this first release? How did the conversations start to acquire your whiskey stocks? Is this high price a sustainable business model? What does your product strategy look like? What is your plan for distribution and expansion? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Heart of Mystic Bourbon. This 3 year old bourbon is 114.6 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 February 9th 2024. 2023 Bourbon Economic Impact Study is out, Bardstown Bourbon Company introduces the “House of Bardstown," and Heaven Hill releases Heritage Collection 18-Year-Old Bourbon.Show Notes: 2023 Bourbon Economnic Impact Study is out. Bardstown Bourbon Company introduces the “House of Bardstown" Old Forester named Caleb Trigo as Assistant Master Distiller Distilled Living is an Official Sponsor of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Bourbon Strong 50-4-50 charity raffle Distilled in Washington, A History new book Will the Apple Vision Pro change the drinks industry forever? The Fielder’s Choice Collection Four Gate Triple Oak Puncher’s Chance THE UNIFIED BELT Jack Daniel's Batch 2 of its 12-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey and Batch 3 of its 10-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey Path of Totality Bourbon Whiskey Elijah Craig Barrel Proof A124 Penelope Bourbon Tokaji Cask Finish Kentucky Old Fashioned Bourbon Barrel Ale Heaven Hill releases Heritage Collection 18-Year-Old Bourbon @bardstownbourbonco @oldforester @distilledliving @give270 @jriegerco @fourgatewhiskey @puncherschancebourbon @jackdaniels_us @haynerdistilling @elijahcraig @penelopebourbon @heavenhilldistillery @heavenhillbrands @alltechbrews Support this podcast on Patreon

Whether it's 2 or 12 years old, the age statement on a bottle seems to be an attractor to many. But as we start diving more into our bourbon journey we start realizing that age is just a number. I've had some really great bourbons at 4 years old and some really great at 14. With all that being said, at what point should you proudly display that age statement on the bottle? In this roundtable, we dive into this topic and look at the history of age statements and when we started paying attention to them. There's also brands that have a lot of success without an age statement like Maker's Mark and most of the Buffalo Trace portfolio. And now that the modern bourbon consumer has been accustom to seeing age statements, would you pass on a bottle just because it said 4 years old on it? Show Notes: bove the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about people hating Buffalo Trace products. When Does An Age Statement Matter? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Nelson Brothers Rye. This non-age stated rye is 92.5 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.

It's This Week in Bourbon for February 2nd 2024. Eijah Craig returns as the Official Bourbon of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, Southern Glazer’s is being sued by online platform Provi, and Buzzard’s Roost introduces their American Whiskey.Show Notes: ReserveBar partners with delivery.com Old Forester featured in Argylle Southern Glazer’s is being sued by online platform Provi Elijah Craig is the Official Bourbon of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am Buzzard’s Roost introduces their American Whiskey @reservebarspirits @oldforester @deliverdotcom @oldforester @elijahcraig @buzzardsroostwhiskey Support this podcast on Patreon

We're all too familiar with the barrel and it's impact on whiskey but what about it's life after whiskey? Actually, there's quite a lot. These barrels can be used for aging other spirits, beer, furniture, bbq smoking chips, the list is endless. But did you ever stop to think how those used barrels go from one man's trash to another man's treasure? Well, there's one company that has made a name for themselves and that's Midwest Barrel Company. Ben and Jessica Loseke join the show to talk about how Ben got into the used barrel business and the economics behind it. If you ever find yourself glued to an episode of Storage Wars or Pawn Stars, you'll love to hear how Ben stumbled into used barrels and everything else he tried to flip in the process. Today, Midwest Barrel Company is brokering tons of used bourbon barrels and talks about how he develops his sales pipeline and acquires new customers. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about price and quality opinions. How did you discover a business in used barrels? Do you remember for you first big score? Did you ever get in legal trouble buying and flipping stuff? What year did you buy your first barrels? How many empty barrels can you fit on a full truck? Who were your main customers? How did you figure out how to scale this business? How hard was it to let go of certain aspects of the business? How do you find new suppliers and new customers? Is this considered commodity trading? Is this a cutthroat industry where you are overbidding others? How fast can you turn around a barrel once you receive it? What are you doing when you steam a barrel? What other things are people making with barrels? How do you know what your pipeline looks like for sales and purchasing? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Old Man Winter Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 109.8 proof and $160 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 26th 2024. Craft Spirits Data Project has released is 2023 data, New Riff Distilling announces a master distiller, and Green River Distilling will release its highly anticipated Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey.Show Notes: Craft Spirits Data Project has released is 2023 data New Riff has named a master distiller Diageo has lost its appeal to dismiss a lawsuit Lexington beams messages to outer space Green River Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey Multifarious and Purple Karma Pinnacle from Patty Green Whiskey Distillers Nelson Brothers Maple Cask Finish Woodford Reserve Double Double Oaked Bourbon @newriff @woodfordreserve @greenriverdistillingco @nelsonsgreenbrier Support this podcast on Patreon

Cracking the can on a warm day sounds like something out of commercial. Over the past year we talked about the RTD or ready-to-drink category beginning to explode because of High Noon and now major bourbon brands are moving into the ready-to-drink space since the canned cocktails' accessibility, lower alcohol content, and mixability make them an appealing gateway for newcomers while still leveraging whiskey's premium status. Though launching requires significant investment, the potential for brand awareness and category growth is alluring. In this episode, Ryan, Fred, and Kenny sip on 5 different bourbon-based RTDs and give our theories on canned cocktail popularity, health concerns, ingredients, and where the category could expect to go. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the best rickhouse in the industry. Drinking Jim Beam Highball Why do brands decide to get into the RTD category? Drinking Jack Daniel's Honey Lemonade How important is sugar content in the RTD? Can RTDs be a gateway to more bourbon drinkers? Is it better to have brand recognition before starting a RTD? Drinking Home School Blood Orange Manhattan Is it too expensive to get into the RTD game? What is the shelf life of a RTD? How do you define a RTD? Drinking CANVAS Bourbon Lemon Spice Is Bourbon Cream a RTD? Do prefer carbonation or no carbonation? Drinking Thomas Ashborn Classic Old Fashion Does it matter what kind of bourbon you put into it? Where is this category going to go? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Ironroot Harbinger Tribarrel Blend Bourbon. This bourbon is 132.8 proof and $86 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 19th 2024. Uber is shuttering alcohol delivery service Drizly, Woodford Reserve has partnered with award-winning gourmet chocolate brand for Valentines Day, and Old Forester® announces the newest release in its Whiskey Row Series 1924.Show Notes: Woodford Reserve partners with Compartés for Valentines Day RD1 Spirits has unveiled plans for its $4.8 million brand destination Uber Technologies is shuttering alcohol delivery service Drizly The States That Drink the Most Alcohol in America Diageo and Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs have settled their legal disputes Staghorn is opening its first distillery, Garrard County Distilling Co. Old Forester 1924 Garrison Brothers 2024 Guadalupe six-year-old Rabble Rouser Bottled-in-Bond Rye Whisky from Catoctin Creek @woodfordreserve @rd1spirits @compartes @vinepair @oldforester @garrisonbros @catoctincreek Support this podcast on Patreon

Now that we have our own bourbon with Pursuit Spirits, we're learning first hand how distributors can make or break your brand. There's a huge learning curve to understanding the lingo and just being able to communicate on the same page. But this can be maddening if you choose the wrong distributor that doesn't give you any attention and let's your brand go stale. We invited Johnny Foster to come back on the show to give us insights on how to work best with distributors. Johnny was a guest back on Episode 227 when he was a part of Smooth Ambler but now he's at Ragged Branch and leads their sales and distribution. He gives the pros and cons of selecting large versus boutique distributors, how to spend smartly on incentives, and targeted marketing funds. Ultimately though, motivating partners comes down to building authentic relationships through regular visits and communication. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the export market. What are you doing today at Ragged Branch? How do you motivate distributors without losing your damn mind? How do you tell a story and justify a higher price tag versus the big 6 staples? What can smaller distillers do to appeal to distributors? How do you guide people on choosing a distributor that is big or small? How do you spend money with a distributor through incentives and programs? What does it cost to get in-store displays? What dollar amount per case do you put towards programming? What makes a company look attractive for acquisition? What are successful methods for marketing and getting product off the shelf? Where do you put focus on chains vs independent stores? How do you protect yourself from contracts? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Heaven's Door Bootleg Volume V Bourbon. This 18-year-old bourbon is 114 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 12th 2024. A new bourbon documentary comes out today called Bourbon Blaze, Rebel Bourbon has signed a sponsorship agreement with Richard Childress Racing, and Templeton Whiskey Unveils their Templeton Straight Bourbon.Show Notes: Spec's had their massive drop. So camping is alive and well. Bourbon Blaze: The Night That Tested America’s Spirit Banks Festival demonstrates its commitment to community impact Artisanal Spirits Company (ASC), owner of the Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS), has acquired US-based independent bottler Single Cask Nation Middle West Spirits has completed a new world-class distillery in Columbus, Ohio Rebel Bourbon has signed a sponsorship agreement with Richard Childress Racing Traveller Whiskey Templeton Straight Bourbon @specs1962 @bourbononthebanks @singlecasknation @middlewestspirits @rebelbourbon @templetondistillery Support this podcast on Patreon

This is the first roundtable of 2024 and, as usual, we want to pack it with our best 2024 predictions of the year. Some may seem obvious, some may seem way out of left field, and some are even dreary. Yet, the current landscape of bourbon has changed so we're in for another wild ride in 2024! Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about drinking too much water. Our 2024 Predictions. Sorry, no spoilers. Support this podcast on Patreon