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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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