On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Little Book Chapter 7: In Retrospect Whiskey. This non-age stated whiskey is 118.1 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.

Subscribe to Behind The Pursuit: From Bourbon to Brand We’ve talked for awhile now that as we’ve been bringing people in for tastings and experiences at the distillery, and it has been an amazing time to bring people in, that Kenny and Ryan have lead all those experiences. As fun as that is, it isn’t scalable to the business for that to always take place and we needed people to be an extension of Kenny and Ryan. People who can speak on their behalf, know the product, and can show folks a great time when they visit.  As a fan suggestion to the podcast, today we are going to meet the new additions to the crew: Joe, Sarah, and Tim. There are so many directions we went with this episode, so don’t miss a minute of it.  We hit on: What is everyone’s back story?  How did everyone get into the industry?  What led you to bourbon specifically?  What does it look like to go through the University of Louisville’s Distilled Spirits program? How does Joe feel about being the most advanced Cicerone in Kentucky?  Is there something about the brand, the guys, or the whiskey that surprised you about Pursuit Spirits?  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 was a huge buying frenzy during the pandemic, but where is the secondary market of bourbon headed? We saw a huge boom and that bubble is starting to deflate a bit. Nata Gana originally started as a whiskey-focused Instagram account and worked directly with brands, but has since evolved into a writer covering the entire spirits industry and has also began curating his own sample packs out in the market called Bevridge. As secondary whiskey market values skyrocketed the past decade, iconic bottles like Pappy Van Winkle became difficult to obtain, yet seem poised to stall. Nate gives his opinion on the state of collecting and what allocated bottles are worth the chase and where he sees the bottom falling out. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about present day prohibition on our economy. How did you initially monetize your Instagram account? Are the guidelines changing for how brands have to interact with influencers? When did the transition change from Instagram to bring a writer? What is your philosophy on collecting and holding to sell versus flipping? What is the current state of the secondary market and will it rebound to where it was? Will Pappy Van Winkle sustain its current value? What whiskey category do you think has room to grow in value? Talk about your Bevridge sample packs. Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Michter's Toasted Barrel Finish Rye Whiskey. This non-age stated rye is 108.9 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 December 29th 2023. Marianne Eaves is suing Castle & Key, RD1 Spirits in Lexington has announced plans to build a new location, and a look back on 2023.Show Notes: Anthony Dias Blue, founder of the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, has passed Marianne Eaves is suing Castle & Key Algoma Capital has closed a strategic transaction with Off Hours Bourbon Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company joins the KDA A new lawsuit against the federal ban on at-home distilling Federal tobacco regulators ban Luckee Vape Daniels branded products RD1 Spirits in Lexington has announced plans to build a new location. Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Single Batch Series: Batch 035: Centenary Cask Very Olde St. Nick Winter Maple Look back on our biggest accomplishments this year @mariannebmd @castleandkey @drinkoffhours @lawrenceburgbourbon @rd1spirits @chattwhiskey @preservationdistillery Support this podcast on Patreon

Becoming a global brand ambassador for a major spirits company like Jim Beam involves building close relationships throughout the three-tier distribution system and constantly adapting branding and marketing as consumer tastes evolve. We invited Tim Heuiseler on the show. He's gone from the behind the bar to traveling globe as a Brand Ambassador to preach the gospel of Jim Beam's small batch portfolio. We talk about how their offerings span everything from lower-proof introductory with Basil Hayden to the powerhouse that is Booker's and how to deliver that message consistently. In addition, he takes note of competitor innovations and emerging drink trends so they can launch new marquee expressions like Hardin's Creek to stay ahead of the game. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the length of decanted whiskey. How does one become a global brand ambassador? How much is involved in building relationships in the three tier system? Does the branding strategy change as consumer habits change? At what point does a brand have enough steam and you have to pivot and focus on a certain product? When you go international, how do you change a culture to adopt bourbon when they focus on other spirits? Is Basil Hayden your introductory whiskey for everyone? How do you replicate Fred and Freddie Noe into your own presentation? What does "small batch" mean to Jim Beam? Why get into single malt? When is the next Booker's Rye coming? If you see a competitor coming out with something new how do you report that back? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Jack Daniel's Twice Barreled Special Release Heritage Tennessee Rye. This non-age stated rye is 100 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 December 22nd 2023. There's almost 3 barrels for every 1 person aging in Kentucky, the EU suspends the tariffs on American whiskey, and a new record has been set for unicorn whiskeys.Show Notes: There's almost 3 barrels for every 1 person aging in Kentucky Les Fugate earns Esprit de Corps Award Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails moves production facilities The EU suspends the tariffs on American whiskey The Paddock Bourbon Club opens in Lexington A new record has been set for unicorn whiskeys Lazy K Bar Whiskey with Cole Hauser @kentuckybourbontrail @brownforman @jackdaniels_us @paddockbarlex @lazykbarwhiskey Support this podcast on Patreon

We've all been driving through bourbon country and been amazed at the rickhouses that paint the country side. But what goes into building and engineering those? Buzick Construction has a long family history in the whiskey business, with their family building multiple rickhouses for Jack Daniel's. Today, the average size of a rickhouse is 50,000 barrels, presenting engineering challenges compared to older 20,000 barrel ones in terms of weight load, airflow, and temperature control. We brought their President, Donald Blincoe, and chief engineer, Kevin Aldred, on the show to talk about what goes into building a rickhouse. We talk about different wood types, exterior materials, precise airflow design needs and humidity considerations. We also dive into the costs because a rickhouse run into the millions these days. Overall, Buzick has been the name in construction around Bardstown and has a reputation in these time-honored warehouses. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about food and whiskey pairing Talk about the history of Buzick Construction How many rickhouses did your great grandfather build for Jack Daniel's? Do you have a patent on the ricking system? What's the average size of rickhouse today? How did the engineering change when going from 20,000 to 50,000 barrel rickhouses? Do you have to defend your plans to local governments and municipalities? What options do you have when building such as wood types? What's the usual cost for building a rickhouse? How do you design for airflow? Do you have to go into older buildings and modernize them? What is the preferred exterior material to use now? Does creating a heat controlled warehouse interfere with natural flow? Have there been any crazy requests for rickhouses like a smart rickhouse? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Southern Star Paragon Single Barrel Cask Strength Wheated Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 113.3 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 December 15th 2023. Pursuit Spirits is officially open for public tours, Heaven’s Door joins the Kentucky Distillers Association and Old Forester is releasing the newest 117 series Scotch Cask Finish.Show Notes: TikTok Live Featuring Kevin of Bourbon Notes and Pursuit United Give 270 launches 20/20 Unicorn Matt Porter becomes Master Blender at Barrel King Heaven’s Door Distillery joins KDA Pursuit Spirits is officially open for public tours Old Forester 117 Scotch Cask Finish Milam and Greene White-Tailed Buck Single Barrel Bourbon A. Smith Bowman Distillery Cask Strength Virginia Straight Bourbon Whiskey Empirical x Doritos Nacho Cheese Spirit @pursuitspirits @adhdwhiskey @barrelkingbourbon @heavensdoorwhiskey @oldforster @milamandgreenewhiskey @a.@smithbowman @empiricalph @doritos Support this podcast on Patreon

It's the final Bourbon Community Roundtable of the year it's number 88. In typical fashion we have two topics. First is wondering why there isn't a consumer blowback when a brand gets acquired. It happens all the time in beer when a small craft brand is gobbled up by a large corporation and there is a small piece that dies. In the second half of the show we revisit our 2023 predictions to see who got it right and who got it wrong. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the expiration date of whiskey Why is there never consumer blowback when a bourbon brand get acquired? Let's review our 2023 predictions Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Angel's Envy Cask Strength Straight Rye Whiskey Finished in Sauternes and Toasted Oak Barrels. This finished rye is 114.4 proof and $270 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 8th 2023. Maker's Mark has filled its first Certified Regenified barrel of whisky, Blue Run is back with it's 12 Days of Bourbon series, and Pursuit United Bourbon Batch 11CD.Show Notes: American whiskey is staring down a 50 percent tax when sent to Europe Maker's Mark has filled its first Certified Regenified barrel of whisky Woodford Reserve is creating a sensorial experience at Istanbul International Airport Rabbit Hole Distillery announced the release of Amburana Chattanooga Whiskey is INTRODUCING: THE VAULT SERIES Pursuit United Bourbon Batch 11CD Milam & Greene Whiskey releases The Castle Hill Batch Three Wheel Horse Cigar Blend Bourbon Two limited distillery-only offerings of Very Olde St. Nick whiskeys Samuel Maverick Straight Triticale Whiskey Bottled-In-Bond Puncher’s Chance THE UNIFIED BELT Wilderness Trail Distillery’s 10th Anniversary limited-edition 10-Year-Old Wheated Bourbon Blue Run is back with it's 12 Days of Bourbon series Rebel Small Batch Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Three Chord Bourbon Backstage Series @makersmark @woodfordreserve @rabbithole @chattwhiskey @milamandgreenewhiskey @wheelhorsewhiskey @veryoldestnick @maverickdistilling @wildernesstrail @bluerunspirits @rebelbourbon @threechordbourbon Support this podcast on Patreon

Seagrass, Dovetail, Vantage, these are all names that we immediately associate to Barrell Bourbon. I'm excited to bring back two guests on the show, Joe Beatrice and Tripp Stimson, to talk about hitting their 10 year anniversary. Joe and Tripp reflect on their early vision for the company and how it's evolved from figuring out budgets and spending, learning from early batches, and how their decision to not follow the bourbon playbook of building a brand has been a success for them. We talk about expanding their facilities with a new rickhouse, reading consumer habits and trends, where the company will be next, and even Amburana. It's a fascinating look at the past decade and future vision of this fast-growing brand. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the difference between sourcing and contract distilling? 10 years ago, what was your vision for the company and how has that changed? What was your budget and figuring out where to spend the money? What the early feedback with those initial pitches and sourcing? Has the consumer switched from chasing states to chasing flavor? Did anyone tell you that going with cask strength was a bad idea? What have you learned from Batch 001 and do you feel the product has gotten better over time? How do you look at consumer habits and plan accordingly? Why did you come up with the derived mash bill? What is it about Amburana that you like or that can benefit in your blends? What are your new facilities like? Talk about the Yellowstone rickhouse you purchased? What does the next 10 years look like for you all? Do you feel like like your model is a hard target for an acquisition? @barrellbourbon Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Bardstown Bourbon Company Discovery Series #11. This blend of 6, 10 and 13 year old bourbon is 118.1 proof and $140 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 1st 2023. Potential site for ‘bourbon complex’ hits the market in Shively, the Frazier History Museum is opening a special holiday exhibition Spirited Design featuring Old Forester’s Mid-Century Decanters, and Heaven Hill Distillery announced the release of the Fall 2023 edition of Old Fitzgerald.Show Notes: Owensboro 21 pallets of bourbon that were reported missing have been located Potential site for ‘bourbon complex’ hits the market in Shively The Frazier History Museum is opening a special holiday exhibition called Spirited Design: Old Forester’s Mid-Century Decanters Buzzard’s Roost Repeal Day Event Four Roses bourbon has launched its first-ever consumer advertising campaign The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board warns about fakes Commissioners of the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission reviewed changes to the agency's Chance to Purchase program Heaven Hill Brands announces two company facilities received the EPA’s first-ever ENERGY STAR certification The Kentucky Bourbon Trail received a Gold Traverse for its "Book Now, Bourbon Later" digital marketing campaign Old Forester is releasing the rarest bottle it has ever produced – a decanter to honor the brand’s 150th anniversary Castle & Key Distillery and Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild (KBBG release of The Untold Story of Kentucky Whiskey, Chapter 3 Broken Barrel Whiskey Co. has introduced Honey Smoke Reserva Jack Harlow joined forces with Knob Creek Jack Daniel Distillery introduces Distillery Series Selection #12, a Straight Tennessee Whiskey Finished in Oloroso Sherry Casks Fall 2023 edition of Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey at 8 years old @frazierhistorymuseum @oldforester @buzzardsroostwhiskey @heavenhillbrands @heavenhilldistillery @kentuckybourbontrail @castleandkey @_kbbg_ @brokenbarrelwhiskey @jackharlow @knobcreek @jackdaniels_us Support this podcast on Patreon

We rate bourbons all the time. But we've never really rated things that surround the product and the bourbon culture. In this episode, Ryan, Fred, and myself look at a bunch of subjects and ask whether it's under rated, over rated, or properly rated. From single barrel picks to bourbon-themed weddings, there's a lot to cover. We'll break down whether booker's boxes and wax dipping are gimmicks or genuinely enhance the experience. And what about all those whiskey influencers on YouTube, Instagram and Tiktok - are they spreading valuable knowledge or just hype? We'll also discuss whether tasting notes and bottled-in-bond really mean anything and if the Fred Minnick effect is real. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about taters and hype around allocated products. Under rated? Over Rated? Or Properly Rated? Single Barrel picks A single barrel bottle from a brand Spirit awards Booker's boxes Wax Whiskey YouTube'rs Instagram and TikTok Bourbon tattoos Distillery weddings Bourbon barrel furniture Cooking with bourbon bottled in bond Tasting notes The Fred Minnick Effect Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review King of Kentucky. This 16 year old bourbon is 125.8 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 We’ve been up and running at the distillery for several weeks now. We’ve processed barrels, worked on blends, we’ve had friends and family and Patreon members in to help us iron out the experience that will soon be open to the public. While we recently had Kenny talk with us about the process to getting the distillery open, now we want to talk the fun part: what we have to show everyone.  Join us today as we talk with the guys about what to expect from the soon-to-open bottle your own experience here at Pursuit HQ. We hit on: Will the experience always be led by Kenny and/or Ryan? Will it be a walk up location, or reservation only? What are you wanting guests to be able to experience here that may be unlike other distillery experiences?  How has the experience been shaped with early practice? What have you learned in those first pilot tours? What has been the most common feedback you’ve received so far?  and much more. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at [email protected].

Let's say you want to start a new bourbon brand but you don't have generations of family heritage or an existing legacy to promote. So how do you get consumers to try something new instead of reverting to something like putting horses or barns on the labels? Branding today seems to require more storytelling than focusing just on the whiskey. One modern brand trying to break that mold is Frank August. I invited their CEO and Co-Founder, Johnathan Crocker on the show to talk about navigating this challenge and how they are reinventing branding in a crowded bourbon market without relying on a legacy. They're focused on creating an authentic modern brand that resonates with consumers. It's an interesting case study on building a bourbon brand from scratch in today's industry. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about will the bourbon boom ever end? How did you get tied into whiskey and with Drew at Willett? Why create a new bourbon brand during COVID? How do you see yourself and brand fitting into this industry? What does the name Frank August mean? At what point does it feel like overthinking vs simple strategy? Would a consumer just like to buy a bottle with a horse on it instead of new labels? Does a brand have to speak directly to a specific demographic or can brands adapt? Historical brands like Old Forester and Heaven Hill sourced their whiskey at first so how did they adapt? Can you change the mindset of a whiskey drinker away from the staples like a horse or a barn? Do you have to talk about the story instead of the whiskey? Are any legacy brands that have successfully pivoted to tell a new story? @thefrankaugust Support this podcast on Patreon

On this special edition of Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review the 2023 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. The collection includes: Sazerac Rye 18 Year, Thomas H. Handy, Eagle Rare 17 Year, William Larue Weller, and George T. Stagg. Each bottle has a suggested retail price of $125. 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 17th 2023. There was an attempt to reroute 21 pallets of bourbon from the Glenmore Distillery, Dixon Dedman releases Gem of Kentucky, and Michter’s is dropping a 25 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon.Show Notes: Allied Market Research new report on bourbon growth Owensboro Police Department says there was an attempt to reroute 21 pallets of bourbon from the Glenmore Distillery 10th Anniversary of the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery opened its distillery in Frankfort Lost Lantern opens a tasting room 15 recipients of the American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund grants Conecuh Ridge Distillery is planning for a May 2024 opening KY state lawmakers being pushed for self-distribution Dread River Distilling Co. is releasing Master Series Batch 2 Dixon Dedman proudly presents Gem of Kentucky 291 Colorado Whiskey’s three new limited releases Westward Whiskey Milestone Great Lakes Distillery will be releasing its Still & Oak Black Friday Bourbon Frey Ranch American Single Malt Smoked Whiskey HIRSCH Selected Whiskeys debuts the third edition of The Single Barrel and the second edition of The Single Barrel Double Oak Dickel Bourbon Aged 18 Years Michter’s 25 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon @alliedmarketresearch @evanwilliamsbourbon @jmattingly1845 @lostlantern @westwardwhiskey @greatlakesdistillery @freyranch @michterswhiskey @lostlanternwhiskey @clydemayswhiskey @2xowhiskey @dixon_dedman Support this podcast on Patreon

It's Bourbon Community Roundtable #87 and this one dives into a single topic that has perplexed me over the past few months. It seems that there are only a handful of brands people talk about yet there are over 2000 distilleries across the US. I would like to think the stigma of craft is changing but my newsfeed is always talking about the same select few. What makes us always gravitate to the big 6 or perhaps we should refer to as the big 7 now? Is it accessibility because it's on the shelf or could be on your shelf pending allocation? Is it marketing and the big brands can throw their weight around at the distributor level? Or is Big Bourbon just better than craft? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about mocktails Is big bourbon just better than everything else? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Still Austin Red Corn Bourbon Whiskey. This 4 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.

Subscribe to Behind The Pursuit: From Bourbon to Brand Pursuit United Private Selection is here. We previously talked with Kenny about turning the warehouse into a functioning distillery, but now that we’re up and running it is time to get liquid to lips. On today’s episode both Kenny and Ryan are on discussing what the PUPS program looks like for stores and groups as well as in-person experiences and what you may expect.  We hit on: What was the genesis in how you started thinking about a private selection process? With your model of sourcing for Pursuit United with the different states and mash bills, how did that fold into the PUPS concept?  We initially talked about doing a micro batch program for barrel selection, what were some of the flaws in this system which made you pivot to something different? Will there be offerings for both full barrel selection as well as a bottle-your-own experience?  After your first in-person selection/tasting, did you identify things that you know you’ll need to change or do differently in the future?  and much more. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at [email protected].

The trend of cask finished whiskey is here to stay. It's run rampant over the past few years to the point that every single company has one. But how are barrels sourced? How many times can a barrel be used before it longer gives off those different flavors? To answer these questions and a lot more, I've invited Jessica Ann from H&A Barrel Management on the show. We've had the pleasure of knowing Jessica for many years. She recently got herself into the market of brokering barrels for different cask finishes. Jessica gives us the low-down on wine and exotic oak finishes and how difficult they can be to attain. There's a lot to break down such as types of oak, toast level, and if cooperage reputation has any prestige. With the wide variety available, we're going to see even more trends hit the market soon. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks if Pappy is a NDP. How did you and Fred connect? How many times can a barrel be used for wine aging? Why is French Oak the preferred type for wine? If I need barrels, what do you have readily available? What does STR mean? How are different barrels valued? How many times can those barrels be re-used? In the used barrel market are there cooperages that have more prestige? What are some of the newest barrels people want that aren't common? Do customer's ever request different toast and char levels? How do you properly read a wine barrel? Talk about your barrel leasing program. How do you find out about the various oak species available? @bourboninsider Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Dragon's Milk Origin Bourbon. This 5 year old bourbon is 95 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.

It's This Week in Bourbon for November 11th 2023. A new distillery is coming that is aging barrels in coal mines, Rabbit Hole Distillery announced the release of Seasong, and Buffalo Trace Distillery today announces the release of Eagle Rare 25.Show Notes: A new distillery is coming that is aging barrels in coal mines Rabbit Hole Distillery announced the release of Seasong Hard Truth Distilling Co.  announced the release of Barrel Finished Reserve Wild Turkey has released a new whiskey that combines three generations of Bourbon making. The launch of Generations Proof & Wood Ventures has launched The Cabinet Buffalo Trace Distillery today announces the release of Eagle Rare 25 @rabbithole @hardtruthspirits @wildturkey @proofandwood @buffalotrace @buffalotracedistillery @brotherswrightdistillingco Support this podcast on Patreon

Bourbon and charity go hand-in-hand. There has been millions of dollars raised thanks to donations and the willingness of others to purchase for a good cause. However, doing it legally is not an easy task. I invited Eric Clements and Kenny Rambo of Give 270 on the show to talk about being legit. They started Give270 by raffling rare bourbons in Elizabethtown, Kentucky to raise money for local charities. Their mission is to make participation affordable and fun through bourbon raffles. This model has proven successful, but required getting licensed for charitable gaming. The founders discuss how they transitioned from a 501C3 nonprofit to operating legally, as well as how they source rare bourbons, select beneficiary charities, do real paper raffles, and handle taxes. While rewarding, they note challenges in navigating regulations and finding inventory amidst secondary market demand. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about single barrels not being regulated. Why did you all want to start doing alcohol reform in Elizabethtown, KY? What was the mission behind Give270? Do you feel the success of raffles are because of the secondary market? How did you move from a 501C3 to getting a charitable gaming license? Does the pool get bigger by having a raffle versus an auction? Do you really cut up names on a piece of paper and put them in a tumbler? Has there ever been a situation where you are underwater on a raffle? How do you discover and choose the charities you work with? What are the biggest challenges of trying to do all this the legal way? Are people letting you buy from their private collections? What sort of taxes are involved? Is there anything about the current system you would change? @give270 Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Thirteenth Colony Southern Bourbon. This 4-6 year old bourbon is 95 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.

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 27th 2023. Bardstown Bourbon Company’s new tasting experience is now open in Louisville, Frank August has two new releases, and Knob Creek releases a skillet collaborationShow Notes: The Federal Trade Commission brings Total Wine & More into the Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits investigation Ky ABC threatens Doc Crow’s Southern Smokehouse & Raw Bar Bardstown Bourbon Company’s new tasting experience is now open in Louisville 2023 DtC Report shows more people want craft spirits shipped Flag Hill Distillery Releases New Hampshire’s First 10-Year-Old Bourbon Frank August has two new releases Michael Buble announces the launch of Fraser & Thompson Knob Creek partners with Smithey Ironware The Hardin’s Creek Kentucky Series @@totalwine @@doccrows @@bardstownbourbonco @@flag_hill @@fraserandthompson @@knobcreek @@thefrankaugust Support this podcast on Patreon

Today's guest is no stranger to the show. We've had the privelege of knowing Blake Riber of Seelbach's for many years. However, before he had Seelbach's he was a past guest on episode 007 when he was running one of the premier bourbon blogs on the internet called bourbonr. I wanted to invite Blake on the show to talk about the past few years because building an e-commerce business on bourbon, is no easy task. We talk about legal licensing, his first Purchase orders, and being scrappy by growing into his warehouses. Now he helps kickstart brands' success by giving them an online presence. He finds new customers through content marketing and builds loyalty through customer service. It's a story about passion, knowledge, and a little bit of luck. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) asks if barrel proof will last in the bottle over time Are you going to give us an updated shirtless picture we can use on our website? What opportunity presented itself to go from a blogger to a whiskey e-commerce business? What was some of those early hurdle of getting people to order online? How are you finding new customers? What legal hurdles have been the toughest to overcome? Can you share what your warehousing situation was like versus today? Is it gratifying to look back and think about what's like to help kickstart some brand's success? How do you figure out inventory management and the challenges of doing this on e-commerce versus brick and morter? Were you searching for brands or are brands coming to you now to have that online retail presence? How are you trying to connect the brands and the consumers? How are you building customer loyalty? Can you share your initial investment to get your licenses and first POs to get your first sales? Are you see a trade down with de-premiumization and how consumers are shifting? What does growth look like now? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Rare Hare Lucky Bastard Whiskey. This 30 year old Canadian whiskey is 89 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 October 20th 2023. The Whiskey House announces its operation date, American Whiskey exports could face a 50% tariff soon, and King of Kentucky is returning this year with the release of its sixth edition.Show Notes: The Whiskey House announces its operation date The 10 most-consumed alcoholic drinks in the world Burglars used tractor trailers to steal more than $1.6 million worth of alcohol from Republic National Distributing Company BAXUS has announced the launch of its whiskey and wines marketplace It's Bourbon Night announces the first ever BIG Bourbon Night American Whiskey Exports Could face a 50% tariff soon Pinhook Artist Series No. 3 Double Blended Bourbon Laws Whiskey House Special Finish Series release: Honey Cask Finished Bourbon Barrell Foundation Bourbon Booker’s Batch 2023-03 Mighty Fine Batch New Riff dual release of two 8-year-old whiskeys Woodford Reserve 2023 Master’s Collection release - Sonoma Triple Finish King of Kentucky is returning this year with the release of its sixth edition @rndcusa @baxus.@co @itsbourbonnight @pinhook_bourbon @lawswhiskey @barrellbourbon @newriff @woodfordreserve Support this podcast on Patreon

Is the daily drinker dead? I take this roundtable into the direction of deep thoughts once again. At some point in our bourbon journey, someone has asked you "what's your go to?" and maybe you had an answer, but today you may be uncertain about it. I ask everyone on the roundtable if we're living in the golden age of american whiskey and if they feel there's too many options on the shelf to be living in the bubble of only a few bottles. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about bourbon legislation. Is the daily drinker dead? Are we living in the golden age of American Whiskey? How do you break away from the daily drinker? @breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Elijah Craig Ryder Cup Toasted Barrel Bourbon. This non-age state bourbon is 94 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 October 13th 2023. The Buffalo Trace Antique Collection details have been announced, a new world record has been set for the most bourbon bottles at a bar , and you can spend the night in a bourbon barrelShow Notes: Warehouse H: The Story of Blanton’s Bourbon Prohibition Bourbon Bar at Newberry Bros. Coffee in Newport, Kentucky has set the world record Uncle Nearest will launch a Cognac brand Diageo countersued Sean Combs in New York state Whiskey Riot expands 2024 tour Devils River Whiskey partners with Dave Bautista Catoctin Creek Distilling Company reacquires its interest from Constellation Brands Bourbon Barrel Retreats in Lawrenceburg WIDOW JANE’S THE VAULTS 2023 WOODFORD RESERVE 2023 HOLIDAY BOTTLE Philadelphia Eagles launch Bird Gang Spirits Heaven’s Door Spirits launches “Homesick Blues” Minnesota Wheated Bourbon Never Say Die Rye Whiskey Nelson Brothers Rye Whiskey WhistlePig 12 Rye Whiskey Yellowstone Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Toasted Staves. A Midwinter Night’s Dram Act 11 Milam & Greene Whiskey Free-Tailed Bat Single Barrel Bourbon Blue Run 8-Year-Old Single Barrel The Buffalo Trace Antique Collection @warehousehinfo @newbery_prohibition @unclenearest @diageo @whiskeyriotfestival @devilsrwhiskey @davebautista @catoctincreeks @bourbonbarrelretreats @widowjane @woodfordreserve @heavensdoor @whistlepigwhiskey @yellowstonebourbon @drinkhighwest @milamandgreenewhiskey @bluerunspirits @buffalotrace Support this podcast on Patreon

New Riff has been a brand that many whiskey enthusiasts have followed for many years. I was excited to have Jay Erisman on the show, once again, to talk about his vision for New Riff. Jay came into the industry with no production experience but learned the ropes quickly. Under the guise of Ken Lewis, New Riff put a focus on unique grain experimentation over finishes. Over time, that itch for curiosity has built famous releases based on heirloom grains and a brand new vision for single malt. Through collaborations with farmers and consumers, New Riff has charted its own adventure in the spirits world Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about nosing high proof spirits. Can you tell everyone again about how you got started at The Party Source and New Riff? Do you remember doing private Van Winkle picks? How did Ken Lewis impact today's retail of beverage alcohol? How did you get smart real quick on running a distillery with no background? What brands inspired you to figure out what your whiskey was going to be? Did you make a bet on grain experimentation vs finishes? Have your batches been all luck or have there been some duds? Does New Riff have a higher educated consumer fanbase? Did you all try to embrace the single barrel fad? What's the thought process behind the single malt project? Did you learn anything from the Kentucky regimine of heirloom varieties? @newriff Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Very Olde St. Nick Immaculata. This non-age state bourbon is 118.1 proof and $260 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 There can be a lot of confusion when it comes to the term 'NDP' or Non-Distilling Producer and a producer who makes contract distilling purchases. Both are, in essence, buying whiskey instead of making whiskey, but what other factors are at play to separate these two?  We hit on: What does the sourced market inventory pool generally look like? What is the largest hurdle for brands at the mercy of the sourced market? What does it look like for a brand to use either model long-term? What has it looked like for brands that have started in the sourced market and pivoted to their own distilling or contract distilling? For someone who does rely on contract distillation, are there concerns with expansions, buyouts, brands going in different directions etc. from those who are producing whiskey for them and those implications to your brand?  How do you differentiate your brand from others when so many have access to, essentially, the same base product? and much more. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at [email protected].

At this point, if you've been listening to the show then you know there is a whole world of investor barrels and there is plenty of talk about a bourbon bubble burst and market saturation. For that reason, I've invited Jeremy Dever on the show. I've known Jeremy for a few years and he's a wealth of knowledge and has a pulse on the market. He got his start working with Steve Thompson at Kentucky Artisan Distillery and transitioned to brokering barrels for investors without brands. We discuss barrel values, overproduction issues, and if now is a good time to launch a new brand or if it's too late. It's a reality check for many people because the modern day bourbon glut may have arrived. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about leading a quick bourbon tasting. How did you meet Steve Thompson and get into the spirits business? What was your role at Kentucky Artisan Distillery? At what point did you get into the barrel brokering market? What do investors with barrels do when they don't have brands? What is the benchmark for barrels when figuring out the value? Should investors think about acquiring brands to sell the barrels? Now are investor barrels being held on to wait for higher ages? What are we going to do with overproduction and all the stillage? Is the best time or the worst time to start a bourbon brand? When will see the open barrel market start to level out? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Old Forester 2023 Birthday Bourbon. This 12 year old bourbon is 96 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 September 29th 2023. Buffalo Trace unveils the Prohibition Collection, Wyoming Whiskey has two new releases, and Chattanooga Whiskey releases their Bottled in Bond Vintage Series Fall 2019Show Notes: River Roots Barrel Company opens for business Avalon Spirits has acquired Whiskey Row Bourbon Are you passionate about distillation and looking for a new role? Check out the ADI Job Board Buffalo Trace unveiled the Prohibition Collection Wyoming Whiskey has two new releases FEW Spirits and Alice In Chains announce All Secrets Known Bourbon RY3 Cask Strength Cigar Series Still Austin Whiskey Co. Bottled in Bond spirit: High Rye Bourbon TINCUP Fourteener Bourbon Whiskey Chattanooga Whiskey Bottled in Bond Vintage Series: Fall 2019 @riverrootsbarrelco @buffalotracedistillery @wyomingwhiskey @fewspirits @stillatx @tincupwhiskey @chattwhiskey Support this podcast on Patreon

The bourbon boom has sparked intense interest in America's native spirit, but has also raised complex questions for longtime aficionados and novices alike. With so many new releases and labeling tactics, it can be difficult to discern what defines a quality bourbon. Producers walk a fine line between innovation and tradition, while consumers struggle to separate marketing hype from honest craftsmanship. To help me dive into a bunch of topics I've invited Kris Hart to be on the show. He's the co-creator of The Prideful Goat, an organizer for the Houston Whiskey Social, a contributing member of the Houston Bourbon Society and former guest on the show. We talk about balancing innovation with integrity because that are signs of disenchanting consumers in an increasingly crowded market. We touch on more fun TTB loopholes that I'm sure you will find interesting as well. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about getting the first sample to review. Have you memorized the entire TTB manual? How do you promote education without coming off critical? Do you feel like today's new whiskey connoisseur doesn't know what good bourbon tastes like? Why doesn't Four Roses do more special releases? What happens to experiments that don't make it to market? Is it possible to turn aged whiskey into bourbon? How do we keep companies honest with the labels they are filing to match the whiskey? How far have the rules been bent on bourbon? Do you feel as a producer that you have to put names to your releases for differentiation? Is adding coloring in scotch pretty common? What's on the horizon for the prideful goat? Have we seen more consumer burnout? @whiskypete Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Four Roses 135th Anniversary Limited Edition Small Batch. This blend of 12-25 year old bourbon is 108 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 22nd 2023. Rare Character Finds Itself In A Legal Battle, Buffalo Trace Opens A New Visitor Experience in London, and Russell's Reserve introduces Single Rickhouse Camp Nelson F.Show Notes: Rare Character Finds Itself In A Legal Battle Tennessee Whiskey Trail is a top tourism destination Illva Saronno Holding has purchased a majority of Sagamore Spirit Chris Stapleton and Buffalo Traces will release Traveller Whiskey Buffalo Trace Distillery announces the forthcoming opening of Buffalo Trace Distillery London Medicinal Whiskey Charity is auctioning off a Willett barrel. Lexington is an Official Gateway sponsor to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Rebel Bourbon finished in Cabernet Sauvignon barrels Russell's Reserve Single Rickhouse Camp Nelson F Four Gate Whiskey Company and Kelvin Cooperage 60th anniversary BLACKENED x Rabbit Hole Remus Gatsby Reserve 2023 Edition Basil Hayden Malted Rye @rarecharacterwhiskey @fortunabourbon @sagamorespirit @illvasaronno_holding @chrisstapleton @buffalotracedistillery @rebelbourbon @russellsreservebourbon @fourgatewhiskey @kelvin_cooperage @blackenedamericanwhiskey @rabbithole @kzrabbithole @whiskeyrob @remusbourbon @basilhayden Support this podcast on Patreon

This is another installment of bourbon community roundtable but digging deep into the psychology realm. I posed this question a few weeks ago to our Patreon community to get some initial feedback and I asked them, when is it enough? Not enough of buying bourbon, I'm completely cool with that. But at what point do you have enough of the same thing? It's pretty common to see people talking about and chasing the same bottles. Every day there is a load of comments on every picture of Blanton's or there's a line outside of a store with people waiting for Eagle Rare or Weller. And now we're getting to the point where I'm seeing pictures with nothing except one type of bottle lined up 10 deep on the shelf of the same thing. So if you see an Eagle Rare and you grab it, and you have had it plenty of times, why do you continue to pull it off the shelf instead of thinking "maybe I should put my resources into something different?". When is it enough? Are you looking for value? Are you looking for status? Are you afraid of change? I want to go deep once again to understand more of the bourbon buyer mentality. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about ex-bourbon barrels. When is it enough of the same bottle? Why have 10 of the same thing? Is it all for status? Has your taste changed? @breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review the 2023 Parker’s Heritage Collection. This 10 year old cask strength rye whiskey is 128.8 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.