Jake is joined by Gerard Garland, Whiskey Ambassador for Irish Distillers and Method + Madness Irish Whiskey.  They discuss the explosive growth of Irish Whiskey as it competes globally in the Whiskey World.  Irish Whiskey is experiencing a rebirth as is evident by its growth and popularity.  We were excited to have the opportunity to branch out and try  some of the recent releases from Method and Madness. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out our BourbonLens.com to read our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and details on our upcoming single barrel picks. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens (Image Credit: Method and Madness Irish Whiskey) About Method and Madness: Inspired by spirits that go beyond the bounds of tradition, Method and Madness Irish whiskey has been hatched from the minds of the Masters and Apprentices of Midleton Distillery.  Innovation is nothing new to Midleton, but the Method and Madness micro distillery has provided the copper canvas for experimentation to run free. The whiskeys coming from this distillers’ playground provide a new taste inspired by Irish whiskey history. The range includes Method and Madness Single Grain Irish Whiskey finished in Virgin Spanish Oak, Method and Madness Single Malt Irish Whiskey finished in French Limousin Oak, Method and Madness Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey aged in French Chestnut and Method and Madness Irish Micro Distilled Gin with Black Lemon and Irish Gorse Flower.  Always innovating, the Masters and Apprentices explore different mashbills and wood types resulting in new and unusual limited-edition releases including the Method and Madness Japanese Trilogy, Method and Madness Oats and Malt and Method and Madness Rye and Malt. For more information, please visit Method And Madness Whiskey and follow them on Instagram @methodandmadness & Facebook @MethodandMadness.

Our guest today is Drew Hannush, who is helping us kick off our coverage of Irish Whiskey for St. Patrick’s Day.  Drew is an author, podcaster, world traveler, and incredible storyteller.  Drew Hannush is the author of the best selling book "Whiskey Lore's Travel Guide to Experiencing Kentucky Bourbon” and his latest book, “Whiskey Lore’s Travel Guide to Experiencing Irish Whiskey”. He also hosts two whiskey podcasts, Whiskey Lore - The Stories & Whiskey Lore - The Interviews.  Drew has traveled extensively throughout Scotland, Ireland, and the United States touring distilleries, picking up stories, and helping inspire travelers and whiskey lovers through his social media posts, book, and whisk(e)y tasting experiences. He uses his knowledge and authoritative voice to empower others.  We are excited to chat about Irish Whiskey and his travels in Ireland with Drew in this episode and we hope you enjoy too. Drew understands that the way to bring history alive is to humanize it through entertaining stories. His Whiskey Lore Podcast takes the wonderful legends and myths gathered from distilleries around the globe and transports the listener behind the label of their favorite spirits. From telling the story of Shackleton's whisky through master blender Richard Paterson to the historic rising of Four Roses, told through the memories of brand ambassador Al Young, Drew reveals the stories that bring you closer to your favorite whisk(e)y.   Find out more about Drew and Whiskey Lore on his website.  You can grab copies of his books here: "Whiskey Lore's Travel Guide to Experiencing Kentucky Bourbon”  “Whiskey Lore’s Travel Guide to Experiencing Irish Whiskey”   Irish Whiskey in the News: Purchase Drew’s latest book: “Whiskey Lore’s Travel Guide to Experiencing Irish Whiskey” The State of Irish Whiskey - Daily SevenFifty  Drew's Book featured in Irish News Irish Whiskey Tourism Soared in 2022 Irish whiskey market size to grow by USD 1.54 billion from 2021 to 2026: A descriptive analysis of customer landscape, vendor assessment, and market dynamics - Technavio Whiskey Tourism in Ireland Increased By 425 Percent Last Year | VinePair Brands Report 2023: Irish Whiskey - Drinks International - The global choice for drinks buyers The History of Irish Whiskey Irish Distillers Files NFT Patent To Launch Virtual Bars – Jameson In Metaverse ‘I only see good things at the moment’ – Irish Whiskey Association chair James Doherty on a booming | Business Post Amid an Irish Whiskey Renaissance, the World’s Oldest Licensed Whiskey Distillery Comes of Age | VinePair Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out our BourbonLens.com to read our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and details on our upcoming single barrel picks. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens  

We’re joined by the Founders of Lucky Seven Spirits, a spirits brand inspired by the Hollywood of old.  It’s name and packaging is an homage to the film world, including Hollywood’s Stage 7 (known as Lucky Seven). The stage gained its name because three Warner Bros. best picture winners — The Life of Emile Zola, My Fair Lady and Casablanca — and 10 best picture nominees were shot here.  We taste through two expressions of Lucky Seven, including The Frenchman and Holiday Toast.  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out our BourbonLens.com to read our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and details on our upcoming single barrel picks. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens   About Lucky 7 Spirits: Lucky 7 Spirits brings together a complex mix of qualities; each flavor highlighting our unique tone of voice. We are classy, confident and curious. We always tip our hats, invite the outsider to join our table and embrace the notion that life is a precious gift. We are quirky, fun and relaxed yet we know our stuff, inside and out. We are professionals, connoisseurs, fanatics, friends and ultimately family. We love good bourbon, good people and good times. Co-founders Michael Lahalih and John Pals have been best friends since their college years and share a common bond of bourbon and cinema. In fact, the Lucky 7 namesake is derived from the infamous Stage 7 in Hollywood, CA, where some of the greatest movies in cinema history were filmed. The warehouse-sized stage produced so many award-winning films that the industry started calling it “Lucky Stage 7.” Be it luck, or be it magic (or maybe a bit of both) – finding a bourbon as delicious as Lucky 7, well… that’s worth celebrating. We are but Curators of Fine Spirits, carefully sourcing and then meticulously blending only the rarest bourbons. Nothing is going in to a bottle of Lucky 7 unless it is of the finest spirits you could find. And it is with great pride that Michael and John offer these unique, limited-edition releases. Cheers! For more info on Lucky 7 Spirits, visit their website.

Our guest this week is Craig Bridger of Whyte & Mackay. Craig brings us an impressive lineup of The Dalmore Single Malt Scotch Whiskies, including their 12 Year, USA-Exclusive 14 Year, Port Wood Reserve, and an exquisite and rare 18 Year Single Malt. Our US listeners should definitely keep their eyes out for the 14 Year.  The 14 Year joins The Dalmore Principal Collection, exclusively in the USA. Master Whisky Maker Gregg Glass led its development, the first expression to be finished in hand-selected, rare Pedro Ximénez casks from the House of Gonzalez Byass. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out our BourbonLens.com to read our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and details on our upcoming single barrel picks. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens   About The Dalmore: Founded by Sir Alexander Matheson, entrepreneur and international businessman, The Dalmore was born with a different purpose: to create a sumptuous single malt whisky unlike any other. Today, The Dalmore continues down that path as pioneers of exquisite cask curation, resulting in a whisky of legendary depth. The Dalmore seeks to continue an age old heritage that treasures the sanctity of the cask. Their spirit is finessed in exceptional casks, hand selected by Master Whisky Maker, Gregg Glass and Master Distiller, Richard Paterson, sourced from the world’s finest bodegas and exclusive wineries. The Dalmore’s Highland Distillery is located along spectacular Scottish coastline, on the shores of the Cromarty Firth. Guests can tour to discover their exceptional Single Malt whisky that they have made since 1839. About Whyte & Mackay: Founded Glasgow in 1844. Glasgow continues to be home to our international headquarters today. We are award-winning whisky makers celebrating 175 years of heritage. We proudly produce exceptional whiskies at our five distilleries across Scotland, that are celebrated around the world. Our award-winning portfolio of brands includes four internationally recognised Single Malt Scotch Whiskies: The Dalmore, Jura, Fettercairn and Tamnavulin.  Our premium whisky portfolio includes our namesake Whyte & Mackay Blended Whisky, alongside John Barr Blended Whisky, Claymore Blended Whisky and Glayva Liqueur. In recent years, the Whyte & Mackay portfolio has and continues to enjoy significant growth and investment. In 2016, we welcomed the reborn Tamnavulin Single Malt Whisky to the portfolio. The following year, we honoured our relationship with Sir Ernest Shackleton, launching a contemporary whisky that bears his name. In 2018, Woodsman Whisky and Wildcat Gin joined the portfolio as modern contemporary spirits. 2018 saw further investment in our Single Malt Whisky portfolio, with the launch of a repositioned Fettercairn and Jura in 2018. Our success across 175 years is built on our continued entrepreneurial spirit. That is as true today, as it was in 1844. It is reflected in our people across our business, all around the world. It is at the heart of the exceptional whisky we produce.   The Dalmore in the News: TheDalmore.com Follow Craig on Instagram  The Dalmore 14 Year Single Malt Scotch Whisky Review - Paste There are Only Three Bottles of The Dalmore Luminary No. 1 Single Malt Scotch Available – Robb Report The Dalmore unveils two vintage whiskies - The Spirits Business https://whiskeyraiders.com/scotch/dalmore-14-year-old-single-malt-us-only/ The Dalmore: 100 years of elegant shots | Philstar.com 

Bourbon Lens is excited to play host to a roundtable discussion featuring three organizations aimed at making bourbon accessible for all.  We are joined by the Founders of Bourbon Women, Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild, and BIG Bourbon Club.  Join us as we discuss some important topics as we seek to pull back the red velvet rope of the Bourbon Industry to ensure everyone feels welcome sharing a pour of America’s Native Spirit.   About the Panelists: Peggy Noe Stevens - Founder of Bourbon Women Association Peggy is a woman of many firsts. She founded PNSA and The Bourbon Women Association. She is the first woman in the world to receive the title of Master Bourbon Taster. Formerly of Brown-Forman, Peggy was their Global Event Planner for iconic brands such as Woodford Reserve. She brings her decades of experiential marketing and professional presence development to PNSA designing and building brand architecture for places and people. In 2019 Peggy was inducted into the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame by the Kentucky Distillers Association and in 2020 she was inducted into the Whisky Magazine Hall of Fame. To follow Peggy, check out:  PeggyNoeStevens.com. Robert Beatty - Founder of Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild Robert Beatty is the founder of KBBG and a local Lexingtonian entrepreneur. During a summer 2018 tour that Mr. Beatty conducted to three distilleries and a museum in Bardstown KY, the conversation arose about African American and multicultural influence in the industry pre-prohibition. Through many conversations with industry gurus, history buffs and other bourbon societies, the decision was made to form an organization that will educate minority consumers about the spirit and properly acknowledge all of the ethnic groups that contributed to the robust industry it is today. For more info on the KBBG, head to the Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild website.    Steve Higdon - Founder of BIG Bourbon Club Steve is the Founder of BIG Bourbon Club, which was created as a spinoff his wildly successful TikTok account, Uncle Steve (@60secondbourbonreview) | TikTok.  According to BIG Bourbon Club, the club will serve as your passport to the world of bourbon. The club seeks to expand the universe of bourbon lovers by giving access to bourbon how to’s,  history, the personalities, barrel picks, distillery tours, tastings, and much more. Through their app, they have created the first virtual Bourbon Club where you can access everything, regardless of where you live.  They aim to bring the world of bourbon to EVERYONE.  EVERYONE is welcome. Bourbon should not be exclusive. For more info on Steve, his explosive growth on TikTok, and BIG Bourbon, check out this feature on VinePair.com: ‘Uncle’ Steve Higdon: The Boomer Taking Over Bourbon TikTok.  Diversity and Inclusion in Bourbon Media  Coverage: Distilling.com - The Story of Black Distilling Is Being Written Now These Women Distillers Are Rising With the American Whiskey Boom - The New York Times 5 Female Disruptors Shaping the State of Bourbon in Kentucky  Old Forester bourbon names first openly gay master taster | Lexington Herald Leader How liquor brands are shrugging off the family-run ethos to better diversify their workforces | Fortune  America’s Largest Distillers Are Losing Their Top Talent, as the ‘Great Resignation’ Hits Bourbon | VinePair The Wine Industry Pledged to Improve Diversity, Equity and Inclusivity. Has Anything Changed? Black-owned wine and spirits makers you should know about | Fortune Women in Whiskey Talk Inclusivity and Representation in the Industry Six ways the drinks industry can support racial diversity - The Spirits Business Northside Distilling Co. to release bourbon whiskey for the visually impaired How the Cofounders of Taste Select Repeat Are Making Whiskey Culture More Inclusive This Christmas whiskey ad about trans acceptance is warming hearts around the world - LGBTQ Nation 

Our guest this week is Victoria Eady Butler, Master Blender for Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey. Victoria had a rather unconventional path to the whiskey world, but her story is a great one and we were excited to have this opportunity. She’s honoring the legacy of her Great-Great-Grandfather in her role as the Master Blender of one of the top trending brands in American Whiskey. Uncle Nearest honors the world's first-known African American master distiller, Nearest Green. It was the first spirits brand in the world to be named after a Black American. Their portfolio is the Most Awarded Bourbon and American Whiskey of 2019, 2020 & 2021.  We were excited to feature Uncle Nearest and Victoria in this week’s episode.  We hope you enjoy!  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out our BourbonLens.com to read our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and details on our upcoming single barrel picks. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens   About Victoria Eady Butler: Victoria Eady Butler is a relatively new face in the spirits world, but whiskey is in her blood. The Great-Great-Granddaughter of Nearest Green. African-American master distiller on record, Butler is the Master Blender of the award-winning Unce Nearest Premium Whiskey. Victoria oversees the blending process of Uncle Nearest whiskeys as well as the selection of all 1820 Single Barrels. Butler also serves as a member of Uncle Nearests executive team and oversees the Nearest Green Foundation, a 501(s)(3) non-profit organization that provides scholarships to Nearest Green's descendants that is funded, in part, by the sales of Uncle Nearest whiskey.  Butler blended the very first batch of 1884 Small Batch Whiskey, which launched in July 2019, and was appointed Master Blender in November 2019 after the immense success of the first two batches. Since then, Butler has taken many courses to hone her skills, including becoming an Executive Bourbon Steward through Stave & Thief Society in Louisville, KY, the first bourbon certification program recognized by the bourbon industry.  Prior to joining the Uncle Nearest team in March 2019, Butler worked as an Analytical Manager with the Regional Organized Crime Information Center in Nashville, which she joined upon graduating Middle Tennessee State University with a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice. Butler had just retired from a more than 30-year tenure when Fawn Weaver, Co-Founder and CEO of Uncle Nearest, approached her about becoming involved in the Uncle Nearest brand. The opportunity to carry on her family legacy first-hand and to help to concrete Nearest's name in history was one that she couldn't pass up.  Butler is a mother, grandmother and a Tennessee native, currently residing in Murfreesboro, TN located just 20 miles up the road from the current Nearest Green Distillery. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with friends and family and volunteering with several non-profit organizations. She's also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. Coverage of Uncle Nearest: The Top Trending American Whiskeys of 2022 per ‘Drinks International’  Uncle Nearest Is Shaking Up the Spirits Realm - The Manual Uncle Nearest's Eady Butler Becomes First to Win Back to Back Master Blender of Year Awards - Fred Minnick Uncle Nearest and Jack Daniel's Partner to Support Black Distillers | VinePair How Fawn Weaver Created Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey From Hidden History All-female leadership team guides Uncle Nearest whiskey to historic growth WineMag.com - 5 Questions with Victoria Eady Butler of Uncle Nearest Q&A: Uncle Nearest whiskey blender to visit Columbus Uncle Nearest hits $100m in sales - The Spirits Business Uncle Nearest Releases New Rye Whiskey – Robb Report Black-Owned, Award Winning Whiskey Brand 'Uncle Nearest' Tops Esteemed Inc. 5000 List Uncle Nearest Rye - Story by David Levine for Malt Review

Our guest is Morgan Hancock, Founder of Bourbon with Heart, Kentucky's first and only arts-focused bourbon charity.  Bourbon with Heart is hosting the Inaugural "Barrels of Heart" bourbon barrel art exhibit at the Frazier History Museum in Louisville, Kentucky. The Exhibit began on February 1, 2023 and runs through April. Visit Bourbon with Heart on Social Media to vote for your favorite barrel; the winning barrel artist will receive a $1,000 cash prize plus an additional $1,000 donated to their favorite charity. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out our BourbonLens.com to read our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and details on our upcoming single barrel picks. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens Bourbon with Heart just announced that they raised $63,000.  According to Morgan Hancock and the Charity, the event has raised $63,000 that will go towards the Bourbon with Heart (501c3) mission of raising awareness surrounding our local art community, providing better access to first-class arts experiences regardless of age, race, class, gender, or ability -and raising funds for other local non-profits.  Over the next couple of months, Bourbon with Heart will share individual testimonies from the artists, sponsors, and community members on how their experience with Bourbon with Heart, this exhibit, and the funds raised have positively impacted their lives.  About the “Barrels of Heart” Event: The Inaugural "Barrels of Heart" bourbon barrel art exhibit is located in Louisville, Kentucky. The exhibit opened at Frazier Kentucky History Museum starting in February 2023. It features twenty custom-painted bourbon barrels decorated by local artists & sponsored by your favorite bourbon brands and local companies.  Bourbon with Heart's (501c3)  mission is to leverage the influence and popularity of Bourbon to raise funds for local charities while also providing a first-class arts experience for Kentuckians regardless of age, race, class, gender, or ability.  Whether it’s dance, design, music, photography, theatre, or crafting a delicious bourbon blend, Bourbon with Heart deeply appreciates art in all its various forms. We believe art, like a good glass of bourbon, brings people together and encourages self-expression. With a strong desire to see the arts culture in Kentucky continue to thrive (and grow), Bourbon with Heart is distilling ART right into the heART of its mission. Bourbon with HeART in the News: Bourbon with Heart Frazier History Museum  Bourbon with Heart to raise funds for local charities  "Barrel of Heart" Art Exhibit at the Frazier Museum Opening Feb. 2 | whas11.com  Bourbon with Heart: How one woman is tapping Kentucky's bourbon boom to emphasize culture Bourbon with Heart uses the popularity of bourbon to raise money for local charities - Louisville Business First Bourbon With Heart Louisville Alum: How ADHD Pushed Me to be an Entrepreneur Distilling Art | Inspiring Lives Magazine

Colin Spoelman is our guest this week and he is the Co-Founder of NYC’s Kings County Distillery.  We discuss how Colin grew a tiny distillery into New York City’s oldest and most respected craft whiskey distillery.  Colin has a unique approach to his whiskey craft and isn’t afraid to ruffle a few feathers to make great whiskey and gain respect amongst the world’s largest, and even smallest, distilleries.  Find out what makes Kings County whiskey stand out in the crowd by downloading this week’s episode. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out our BourbonLens.com to read our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and details on our upcoming single barrel picks. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens   About Colin Spoelman: Colin is Co-Founder and Head Distiller at Kings County, New York City’s premier craft whiskey distillery and has written The Guide to Urban Moonshining and Dead Distillers about American whiskey. He grew up in the moonshine (not the bourbon) part of Kentucky and graduated from Yale University. About Kings County Distillery: KINGS COUNTY DISTILLERY is New York City's oldest, largest, and premier whiskey distillery. Founded in 2010, Kings County makes handmade bourbon, rye, and other whiskeys out of the 123-year-old Paymaster Building in the Brooklyn Navy Yard. We use New York grain and traditional distilling equipment to make whiskeys that have been praised by the New York Times, Wine & Spirits Magazine, and Whisky Advocate and is recognized as one of the preeminent craft distilleries in the United States, having been named Distillery of the Year in 2016 from the American Distilling Institute.  Recent Press Release from Sept. 13, 2022: BROOKLYN, N.Y.- Kings County Distillery, New York City's premier craft distillery, is releasing a new flagship whiskey in wide-release, a blended bourbon made from house-distilled straight whiskeys. The resulting whiskey is bright, complex and approachable—a multi-occasion whiskey for neat sipping or mixing. With a suggested price of $54.99, Kings County's Blended Bourbon will be its most accessible aged spirit and arrives in a striking new blue label, one which clearly differentiates this spirit from Kings County's established bourbon, rye, and single malt whiskeys. "As we have done with moonshine and bottled-in-bond, making a blended bourbon is a way of asking whiskey drinkers to reconsider an overlooked category of spirit," said Co-Founder and Distiller Colin Spoelman. "Blended whiskey is most often associated with crowd-pleasing scotch or Canadian whiskies. We used the all-but-forgotten category of blended bourbon to create the American analog to these reliable and endlessly versatile spirits. Composed entirely of in-house, pot-distilled straight bourbon, straight corn whiskey, straight rye whiskey, and malt whiskey, our Blended Bourbon makes for a sippable, lower proof bourbon, suitable for nearly any application calling for an approachable American whiskey. In the interest of providing the drinker with the highest level of transparency and elevating a category historically associated with intentionally vague labeling practices, we list the exact blend composition on every bottle." By law, blended bourbon must use 51% straight bourbon, but the open-ended definition allows the Kings County's blending team to use the full breadth of our mature inventory to craft a complex and purposeful flavor profile within the lineup. With this added flexibility, Blended Bourbon can become a volume leader in Kings County's portfolio, joining an existing line of superlative aged whiskeys. Kings County's spirits have been widely accepted and appreciated, but with supply of aged whiskey growing short across the spectrum of American whiskey, Kings County aims to lead the market with a superior all-purpose two-year-old spirit. With notes of honey, caramel, and rye pepper, this is a flexible whiskey, and one that shows what can be achieved through the use of quality organic ingredients, careful distilling, and creative blending. It also presents a spirit suitable for mixing, creating a new audience for the brand. Kings County Blended Bourbon will be available throughout New York State starting on September 14th with national rollout to follow, visit www.kingscountydistillery.com for more information. With the new entry-level aged whiskey will come a reduction in pricing on Kings County's unaged spirits. "While many distillers are raising prices, we are making our whiskeys more affordable and accessible," said Spoelman. "We want to be the distiller that meets the moment for our customers and fans." Kings County Distillery Online and in the Media: Kings County Distillery  Kings County Distillery (@KingsCoWhiskey) / Twitter Kings County Distillery Guide to Urban Moonshining  Dead Distillers: A History of the Upstarts and Outlaws Who Made American Spirits  ‘Hazmat’ Whiskey Is Gaining Popularity, but What’s the Pleasure in Drinking Something So Strong?  Why the Irish Whiskey Association Is Beefing With a Brooklyn Distillery Kings County Distillery: the oldest in New York, founded in 2010  US distiller calls IWA claim 'ridiculous' - The Spirits Business Tasting Six Whiskeys From NYC's Kings County Distillery - Paste  Kings County Distillery New York - Sip in Brooklyn Navy Yard In American Whiskey, Is Heritage Everything? | VinePair

Our guest this week is David Coors, of the iconic Coors Brewing family.  David is leading the Next Generation of Beverages for Molson Coors and he joins us to discuss their Five Trail Whiskey lineup.  Find out what inspired David to explore the whiskey world and how he convinced his brewing family to get into spirits. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out our BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and details on our upcoming single barrel picks. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens Five Trail Blended American Whiskey, the first full-strength spirit from the iconic Molson Coors Beverage Company, announces the release of its limited Batch 002 blend. Bottled at 95 proof, the new expression is sold for an SRP of $59.99 and is currently available in markets within Colorado, Georgia, Kentucky, Nevada, New York, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin. Supporting the evolution of Molson Coors as a beverage company, Five Trail debuted in September 2021 with Batch 001 – an intentional blend of 4-Year Colorado single malt, 4-Year Kentucky four grain bourbon, 4-Year Indiana wheated bourbon and 13-Year Kentucky bourbon, cut to proof with pure Rocky Mountain Water. It was bottled in partnership with Bardstown Bourbon Company and received numerous accolades and awards, including Double Gold at the 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, Platinum Best of Class in the SIP Awards and Double Platinum in the 2022 Ascot Awards. The Batch 002 blend is also bottled in partnership with Bardstown Bourbon Company but replaces the 4-Year Colorado single malt with 6-Year and the 13-Year Kentucky bourbon with 12-Year. The result is a golden amber whiskey with an aroma of sweet caramel, pecans, and biscuit with hints of wood sugar, caramel, apple, white cherry, smoke, ginger, and allspice on the palate. The finish is easy going and lingering with notes of oak, ginger, and nutty balance. “The response to Five Trail has been overwhelming,” said David Coors, Vice President of Next Generation Beverages at Molson Coors. “Our team really loved the flavor profile we came up with for the inaugural release and wanted to keep Batch 002 in this same vein. Batch 002 is an homage to our debut expression, but with a few nuances stemming from the thoughtfully selected mixture of age statements, creating a complex and layered flavor profile. I hope whiskey drinkers and spirits enthusiasts will enjoy this release as much as the first, if not more so.” Along with Batch 002, Five Trail also launched the below expressions, available in limited quantities within the brand’s eight distribution markets: Barrel Proof: Barrel Proof takes the Batch 002 blend and bottles it at 119 proof. A whiff unlocks aromas of cinnamon brioche, milk chocolate, ginger, caramel apple, and vanilla pudding. A sip features notes of caramel, marshmallow, and candied dates, with ginger, cinnamon, and black pepper on the end, finishing with caramel, ginger, oak tannin, and campfire smoke. Cask Finish Series: Bottled at 95 proof, it’s crafted from a blend of 4-Year Indiana wheated bourbon, 4-Year Kentucky four grain bourbon, 4-Year Colorado single malt and 7-year Indiana rye. The whiskeys are rested in Imperial Porter Barrels from the AC Golden Brewing Company in Golden, Colorado and cut to proof with Rocky Mountain Water. It features notes of biscuit, roasted nuts, and caramel on the nose with hints of toffee, vanilla pudding, apple, candied date, almond, oak, black tea, and cinnamon crumb cake on the palate. Expect a finish of nuts, delicate ginger, and cinnamon. Small Batch Blend: The Small Batch is blended from a base of 4-Year Indiana wheated bourbon, 4-Year Kentucky four grain bourbon, and 8-Year Colorado single malt whiskey with 17-Year Tennessee whiskey. Honey amber in color, there are notes of warm baked bread, slight citrus, ginger, white pepper, and cardamom on the nose with honeyed granola, creamy vanilla, orange marmalade, oak, and honeysuckle with a bit of paprika on the palate. The finish is warm and powerful ginger and oak melded with embers of smoky overlay. It’s bottled at 95 proof. “We’re thrilled to continue Five Trail’s journey with these new expressions,” said Kim Fox, Marketing Manager – Wine & Spirits. “Whether you’re a whiskey novice looking for a flavorful bottle or a whiskey connoisseur looking to expand your cask strength collection, we truly have something to satisfy everyone. We’re excited to keep experimenting and expanding our footprint in whiskey and beyond.” About Five Trail Blended American Whiskey Five Trail marries Colorado provenance with the innovative distillation techniques of pioneering distillers in Kentucky and Indiana to produce this golden amber whiskey, using Coors malt from their brewhouse and the purest water in America, straight from the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. Five Trail is founded in an Unbroken Spirit, spanning a journey that started 150 years ago, with trials, tribulations and an enduring frontier spirit. Five Trail is forged on the expertise, knowledge, and innovative frontier spirit of five generations of the Coors legacy.  For More Information: https://www.fivetrail.com  About David Coors, Vice President, Next Generation Beverages A fifth generation of the Coors family, brewing and beverages are part of David Coors’ blood. He began his career at MillerCoors serving as the Area Sales Manager, before working his way up to Associate Innovations Brand Manager. From there, he joined the Molson Coors brand, holding positions as the country Development Manager, General Manager Australasia and Global Senior Director Craft and Retail. In 2018, he was named President of AC Golden Brewing Company before heading up the Next Generation Beverages Division as the Vice President. Under his leadership, the company launched its first full-strength spirit, Five Trail Blended American Whiskey.  In addition to his brewing accolades, Mr. Coors serves on a number of community and civic boards, including The Yuengling Company LLC, the board of Truss CBD USA LLC, Mario St. George Boiardi Foundation, Committee Members for the Young Guns Coors Western Art Exhibit, and Visit Denver. Mr. Coors holds a Masters of Business Administration and Masters of Engineering Management from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. Additionally, he holds a Bachelor of Science in Operations Research and Industrial Engineering from Cornell University College of Engineering. Online & In the News: Five Trail Whiskey  Molson Coors Will Release Its Second Five Trail Whiskey - Thrillist Coors' Five Trail Whiskey Expands to Canada, Panama Introducing Molson Coors’ Five Trail Batch 002 | Brewbound

We sit down with James Doherty, Founder of Sliabh Liag Distillers (pronounced “sleeve league”) to discuss their portfolio of Silkie Irish Whiskey which recently launched in the United States. We discuss the unique features of Irish Whiskey as well as the various offerings from Sliabh Liag. Find out what makes their whiskies stand out in a market that is seeing explosive growth for Irish Whiskey.  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow whiskey lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out our BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and details on our upcoming single barrel picks. Cheers, Scott and Jake Bourbon Lens   About Sliabh Liag Distillers Bringing the almost-forgotten smoky style of Irish whiskey back into the consciousness and repertoire of discerning premium spirits drinkers is the collection of Silkie whiskeys. Each blended to an exacting standard by Sliabh Liag Distillers founder, James Doherty, the core range of three whiskies – The Legendary Silkie, The Legendary Dark Silkie and Midnight Silkie – take drinkers on a journey through the rich, surprising rewards of whiskies with a varying degree of smoky character. James’s childhood holidays in Donegal nurtured a love for the folk tales of the Sliabh Liag peninsula and more importantly a dream for the future possibilities of reclaiming Donegal’s distilling heritage; this is the driving passion behind James and Moira Doherty’s return to Donegal to establish Sliabh Liag Distillers. The Silkie range – named after the mermaids who would come ashore, shedding their seal- like coat to become beautiful dark haired maidens and steal the hearts of local fishermen – is the first product launched by the business. Founder of Sliabh Liag Distillers, James Doherty, says the inspiration for the collection of Silkie whiskeys comes from memories of those early years in Donegal: “In the mornings, I would head down to the kitchen, where beside the stove, grandad’s pipe would be sitting from the night before. Grandad was a wonderful man, tall, strong, hard-working, and generous, with a mischievous twinkle in his eye. Eleven-year-old me would tug on his pipe and I can viscerally remember the sweet tobacco, smoky and ashy aroma. It seemed to compliment the smell of the stove, the peat and my gran’s baking. Although it’s a morning moment, the whiskey is the taste of the night before”. Once he has this taste in his mind’s eye, the sense of place for James is richer than the lighter Irish whiskey style prevalent today. His aim is to create a style that harks back to a richer era in Irish whiskey, pre-prohibition, and for which Donegal’s distillers were famed. James continued: “I look for balance in the structure of that taste in the whiskeys available to me. One building block of Dark Silkie is intense sweetness - Grain Whiskey virgin oak provides a rounded sweetness, caramel toffee; it feels rich, luxurious, generous, and safe, and captures the innocence of that version of me. It also brings a degree of tannin to the whiskey. Another is smoky, ashy; triple distilled peated malt provides the pipe aromas, an earthy smoky note that we can get to play off the sweetness of the grain. Accents include aromatic dryness. To balance the intense sweet grain I choose the aromatic freshness of a double distilled single malt in sherry, more estery and zesty to cut into the sweetness in the final blend, all of which creates a maritime herbal quality that is almost salty”. For more information on Silkie Irish Whiskeys visit www.silkiewhiskey.com and for Sliabh Liag Distillers, visit www.sliabhliagdistillers.com. Follow us on Instagram at @SilkieWhiskeyAmericas.  

Jake and Scott catch up with Colin Blake, Director of Spirits Education at Moonshine University, after becoming two of the newest Executive Bourbon Stewards. Stave and Thief Society, which is part of Moonshine University, is the first bourbon certification program recognized by the bourbon industry and the only to be recognized by the Kentucky Distillers Association as its "Official Bourbon Education Course." The Executive Bourbon Steward Certification is a day-long, intensive training to strengthen your understanding of the technical side of bourbon production, its history and relationship to other whiskeys, and the variety of aromas and flavors found in different expressions of bourbon. For those of our listeners who are unable to attend this class in Louisville Kentucky, Moonshine University recently launched an online Executive Certification which is helping people around the world to now become Executive Bourbon Stewards.  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out our BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and details on our upcoming single barrel picks. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens   About Moonshine University: Moonshine University®, located in Louisville Kentucky was created to bring together specialists from every facet of the distilling and spirits industries under one roof to provide education, training, R & D, and support for industry professionals, established companies, and those entering the business. With a faculty of over 50 of the industry's recognized experts, we provide the opportunity to learn from the best of the best, from distillers and marketers of the world's most successful brands to owners and operators of working craft distilleries. Moonshine University® is located on a beverage campus that houses a fully-equipped distillery, state-of-art classroom, production facility with bottling line, extensive sensory library, and 24,000 square foot beverage innovation laboratory. Our proximity to industry supplier and manufacturing facilities allows us to incorporate "field trips" into our curriculum. As the exclusive educational member of the Kentucky Distillers' Association, Moonshine University® has the full breadth and depth of its support. KDA members produce nearly all of the major brands and many of the well-known craft brands in the United States. It is with these resources that we are able to offer such an in-depth training and business education for the distilling industry. About Stave & Thief Society: Stave & Thief Society was founded in 2014, and is the first bourbon certification program recognized by the bourbon industry and the only to be recognized by the Kentucky Distillers Association as its "Official Bourbon Education Course." The programs were developed by professional distilling and spirits educators and advised by a panel of experts in the bourbon and hospitality industries to provide a premium, standardized bourbon education that is accessible and holds real value. About Colin Blake | Director of Spirits Education Colin joined the Moonshine University team in 2012 as its Director of Spirits Education. As a researcher and writer of spirits and cocktails with a background in film production and comedy, Colin is known for delivering expertly curated courses with an entertaining presentation. He is also the proud co-creator of the Stave & Thief Society. When he isn’t teaching, Colin is busy producing custom educational experiences for craft distillers and large spirits brands, alike. Executive Bourbon Steward Course Overview: Spend a day at our hands-on learning center and have the time of your life as you attain a real working knowledge of bourbon and bourbon production. Designed for industry professionals and bourbon enthusiasts alike, this day-long workshop offers state-of-the-art classroom training, hands-on distilling, and advanced sensory training, along with plenty of bourbon to enjoy throughout the day (for educational purposes, of course). You’ll gain a strengthened understanding of the technical side of bourbon production, its history and relationship to other whiskeys, and the variety of aromas and flavors found in different expressions, giving you all the tools you need to build creative flights and guide your own engaging sensory experiences. In addition to joining the 2,500+ Bourbon Stewards from around the world who have graduated our program, you’ll also gain the ability to speak with knowledge and confidence when sharing your appreciation for Kentucky’s signature spirit. Key concepts covered: Whiskey classification, including what makes bourbon unique The science of bourbon distillation and aging An overview of bourbon production practices and equipment The history of America’s national spirit Sensory and aroma training How to educate consumers in a friendly and engaging way Tips on how to build and conduct bourbon tastings Included with your purchase: The Bourbon Steward handbook A 36-piece bourbon sensory training kit A crossed thieves lapel pin (upon course completion) A special Stave and Thief Society challenge coin (upon course completion)

Jake travels to Bardstown for an early look (and taste) of Bardstown Bourbon Company’s first estate-distilled collection of whiskey releases; The Origin Series.  These whiskies release later this week and we had the opportunity to be among the first to try each of the 3 releases. If you’ve followed the Bourbon Lens for a while, you know that we have anticipated these whiskies for many years.  We discuss the new lineup with Dan Callaway and Brandon Smith from BBCo. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, whiskey news, and details on our upcoming single barrel picks. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens   Bourbon Lens Coverage of Bardstown Bourbon Co.: New! Bardstown Bourbon Company Origin Series Coming Soon!  Bardstown Bourbon Company’s Latest Collaboration Focuses On The Barrel Bardstown Bourbon Company: The Penultimate Fusion Series Bardstown Bourbon Company: is Fercullen Their Best Collaboration? Bardstown Bourbon Co. to Release Final Expressions in Fusion Series 191: Inside the Vintage Whiskey Library at Bardstown Bourbon Company Bardstown Bourbon Reimagines Château de Laubade Collaboration with Second Release Finding Gold at The Bar: Bardstown Bourbon Company: Muscat Mistelle Collaboration 42: Bardstown Bourbon Co.'s Dan Callaway 31: Discover Bardstown Bourbon Company   About the Bardstown Bourbon Co. Origin Series: New core product collection features Straight Bourbon, Bottled-in-Bond and Rye whiskies distilled and aged at the brand’s Bardstown homeplace.  Six years after their first whiskey was distilled, Bardstown Bourbon Company, one of the largest and most sophisticated distilleries in the country, will release its first estate-distilled collection of whiskies in early 2023. The Origin Series introduces consumers to the modern brand’s core product line through three distinct 6-year-old whiskies: Origin Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Origin Bottled-in-Bond and Origin Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey.  The full series, all of which has been distilled, aged and bottled at Bardstown Bourbon Co., will be distributed to retailers in 24 states, at the distillery gift shop, and via a number of online retailers. “The Origin Series is the first opportunity to taste an expression that is 100 percent our whiskey,” said Dan Callaway, VP of Product Development for Bardstown Bourbon Co. “We’ve put years of patience into this bottle, waiting six years until we felt it was truly ready to share with the world. The full technical capabilities of our distillery are on display with these three bespoke products.”  Origin Series Bourbon is a 6-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This 36 percent high-rye mash bill showcases the best of classic bourbon with a burst of rye spice. A balanced blend of apricot, orange blossom, and mint rests on caramel, nutmeg, and rich oak unfolds on the nose. On the palate, waves of cinnamon and vanilla lead to a bold, signature lasting finish. Origin Series Bourbon is presented at 96 proof (48 percent ABV) for a suggested price of $44.99. Wheated Bottled-in-Bond presents the best locally sourced corn and wheat grains in this 6-year-old straight bourbon whiskey. This bourbon features 20 percent wheat in the mashbill, creating a beautifully balanced modern expression.  Baked peach with cream meets cocoa with hints of lemon on the nose. An indulgent, smooth mouthfeel of stone fruit and toffee leads to an alluring and enduring finish. Origin Series Bottled-in-Bond is presented at 100 proof (50% ABV) for a suggested price of $49.99. Kentucky Straight Rye is finished in custom barrels comprised of alternating toasted American oak and toasted cherry wood staves. This finishing process creates a wholly unique flavor unlike anything seen in the rye category. Ripe cherry resonates through toasted oak, highlighted by white flower, dill, and cinnamon. A rich, round mouthfeel bursts with fruit flavor leading to a one-of-a-kind sublime finish. Origin Series Kentucky Straight Rye is presented at 96 proof (48% ABV) for a suggested price of $69.99.  In addition to the three core products, the launch of the Origin Series will include for the first time, a single barrel program for Bardstown Bourbon Co. A limited number of Origin Series Bourbon single barrels will be available annually for purchase by the barrel to on- and off-premise retailers. Each retailer will be able to hand-select their unique single barrel on-site at Bardstown Bourbon Co.   Origin Series Bourbon: Mashbill: 60 percent corn, 36 percent rye, 4 percent malted barley Proof:     96 proof (48% ABV) SRP:     $44.99   Origin Series Bottled-in-Bond: Mashbill: 68 percent corn, 20 percent wheat, 12 percent malted barley Proof:     100 proof (50% ABV) Price:     $49.99   Origin Series Kentucky Straight Rye: Mashbill:  95 percent rye, 5 percent malted barley Proof:     96 proof (48% ABV) Price:     $69.99   Since 2016, Bardstown Bourbon Co. has grown from a 600,000 proof gallon per year distillery to the 7th largest in America, custom distilling and bottling more than 7 million proof gallons per year. In this time, when many would release un-aged spirits, the brand has instead become known for its boundary-defying approach to bourbon blending, pulling from both old and newer stock, a variety of mashbills and origins to create single-release products. Founded in the spirit of bringing transparency to an industry often cloaked in secrecy and lore, Bardstown Bourbon Co. has established itself through not only custom distillation but also unprecedented collaboration with a number of spirits brands.  About Bardstown Bourbon Company: Founded in 2014 by Peter Loftin in the heart of Bourbon Country on 100 acres of active farmland, Bardstown Bourbon Company, 1500 Parkway Drive, Bardstown, Ky., is one of the country’s most modern and technically advanced whiskey distilleries. Celebrating the art of making high-quality, authentic bourbons, the innovative distillery produces custom rye, whiskey and bourbon for prominent brands including Jefferson’s, Blue Run, Belle Meade and many others through its one-of-a-kind collaborative distilling program. Bardstown Bourbon Company honors tradition and drives innovation with their exceptional destination experience for visitors, offering the only full-service restaurant located within a distillery on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, The Kitchen and Bar at Bardstown Bourbon Company.

We are exploring American Single Malt again this week and tasting a lineup from Colkegan from Santa Fe Spirits in New Mexico. We’re joined by Colin Keegan, one of the pillars in the American Single Malt Whiskey community.  Colin talks about his path to making spirits in the Southwestern United States, the difficulties in growing a craft brand, and his commitment to crafting the best single malt whiskey in America.  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out our freshly redesigned website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, whiskey news, and details on our upcoming single barrel picks. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About Santa Fe Spirits: Santa Fe Spirits was founded by Colin Keegan in 2010 with the goal of becoming the Southwest’s pre-eminent artisan distillery. With products ranging from silver whisky to barrel-aged apple brandy to Colkegan Single Malt Whiskey, Santa Fe Spirits is a relatively small distillery proud to be producing exceptional spirits designed to capture and accentuate the essence of the Southwest.    About Colin Keegan: Colin started Santa Fe Spirits in 2010 with the goal of making the highest quality handcrafted spirits. As he and his wife Suzette live in an apple orchard in Tesuque he had ‘experimented’ with making brandy from the fall crop since 2002. On putting together a business plan he realized that apple brandy alone would not be a sustainable business model, so he formulated a plan of a range of spirits, and sold to multiple markets, with a major focus on American whiskies. The business began with whiskey, apple brandy, and one assistant in the distillery. Over the last twelve years the company has been through many changes. It has been through many expansions and is now on the 4th which will double the facility size. SFS continually adds more products to our portfolio. We have grown from just Colin to eight fulltime and four part-time team members. We now distribute to 11 states across the US and export to Germany, Australia and Japan. ​We have received national awards for all our spirits, but are always looking to improve on all we do. Our next few years will be focused on extending our whiskey market. ​Colin really believes in the craft distilling industry and is a strong advocate for craft distilleries. He was a founding member and has been a board member of the American Craft Distillers Association (ACSA) for 5 years. He also served a 2-year position as their treasurer.  Colin was the founder of the New Mexico Distillers Guild (NMDG) in 2015 and served as its president for three years. He grew the organization from three founders to 20 members. As a founding member of the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission (ASMWC), Colin truly believes American Single Malt Whiskies are really coming into being and will see great growth over the next few years.  As a board member of the Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce, Colin is a big contributor to the local community and small business. He served as Board President in 2016.

We’re joined by Filmland Spirits Founder and CEO Troy Bolotnick. Filmland Spirits has just released 3 new whiskies to market and are seeking to tell a story with every bottle.  Inspired by decade’s past B–Movies, their bottlings are sure to catch your attention on the shelf.  Each release is a homage to Hollywood, film-making, and wild storylines.  Visit FilmlandSpirits.com to grab yourself a bottle for your next movie night. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out our freshly redesigned website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, whiskey news, and details on our upcoming single barrel picks. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens

Our guest this week is David Souza, the Founder and Distiller for Corbin Cash Distillery in California.  We discuss the farm-to-glass approach of the Distillery and what drives David to produce craft whiskey in the San Joaquin Valley where his family has been farming for decades.  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out our freshly redesigned website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, whiskey news, and details on our upcoming single barrel picks. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens

Our guest this week is Matt Hofman of Westland Distillery.  Matt is the Co-Founder and Master Distiller of Westland Distillery in Seattle, Washington. Matt has passion for exceptional whiskies that reflect the region where they were made. He has received a General Certificate in Distilling from the Institute of Brewing and Distilling in London, as well as a Postgraduate Diploma in Distilling from the International Center for Brewing and Distilling at Heriot-Watt University. Matt’s work in American single malt whiskey has been praised by business and trade organizations alike, including being named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list in 2016 and receiving the 2018 American Master Distiller of the Year award by Whisky Magazine. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out our freshly redesigned website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, whiskey news, and details on our upcoming single barrel picks. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About Westland Distillery: Founded in 2010 and acquired by Remy-Cointreau in 2017, Seattle’s Westland Distillery brings a new and uniquely American voice to the world of single malt whiskey by exploring possibilities that have been ignored for generations. Along the way, Westland has been recognized as the country’s leading producer of American Single Malt Whiskey and founded the formal establishment of the emerging American Single Malt Whiskey category by starting the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission. While the distillery uses the same basic ingredients and processes used for centuries by traditional Old World single malt producers, it doesn’t simply seek to replicate the results of its Scottish predecessors. Instead, Westland works to create whiskies that reflect the distinct qualities of its time, place and culture in the Pacific Northwest. All of Westland’s expressions are distilled at the Seattle distillery from 100% malted barley and fermented with a unique Belgian Saison brewer’s yeast before maturing in one of a variety of cask types, including new American oak, ex-Bourbon, ex-Sherry, and Garry Oak, to name a few.   Coverage and Praise for Westland Distillery: Episode 63: Westland American Single Malt Whiskey - Bourbon Lens Westland Distillery  American Single Malt May Soon Be an Official Designation | Wine Enthusiast Westland Distillery Celebrates 8th Annual Peat Week - Bourbon Lens  What an Official American Single Malt Category Means for the Future of Whiskey in the U.S. | VinePair TTB announces proposed American Single Malt standards Follow Matt Hofmann (@matthewhofmann) on Instagram American Single Malt Whiskey Commission

Our guest this week is Nelson Eddy, historian for Jack Daniel’s Distillery. Nelson has represented the Jack Daniel’s brand for more than 34 years and learned the history and lore surrounding the brand working for its very first marketing director, Mr. Art Hancock.  In 1988, Eddy helped introduce the first new whiskey from the Jack Daniel Distillery in more than a century – Gentleman Jack Tennessee Whiskey.  He has since crafted numerous brand communications for Jack Daniel’s, including a book, touring show, countless videos and films. As the Jack Daniel Historian, he has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, NPR, Atlantic Magazine, CNBC, the History Channel and the National Geographic Channel.  For his work, he has won numerous regional and national Addy Awards, the New York Art Director’s Andy Award and the One Show Pencil.  He holds a master’s degree in English from Middle Tennessee State University with an emphasis in the study of the Beat Generation.   Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out our freshly redesigned website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, whiskey news, and details on our upcoming single barrel picks. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens   Bourbon Lens Coverage of Jack Daniel’s: Jack Daniel’s Limited Edition Toasted Pecan Tennessee Whiskey Jack Daniel's Never Resting On Their Laurels With Newest Release - Bourbon Lens Sweet or Savory? What Happens When You Toast Maple Barrels - Bourbon Lens Jack Daniel’s Innovates with Rye Whiskey and Not Bourbon? Jack Daniel's Pursues Innovation With Latest Release - Bourbon Lens 174: Jack Daniel's Launches New Bottled in Bond Whiskies - Bourbon Lens

Our guest this week is Robert Haynes, former bartender at Chicago’s Violet Hour and the creator of Sunday's Finest Gold Fashioned. Robert is looking to reimagine the “ready to drink” cocktail to put an elevated spin on the Old Fashioned.  In fact, Sunday’s Finest is re-defining this iconic cocktail using some of  the best ingredients on the planet, including Afghan Saffron and Tahitian Vanilla. This is the 2nd release of the Gold Fashioned and features a blend of bourbon and rye composed of a 15 year bourbon, an 8 year bourbon, and a 5 year rye.  We discuss the origin story of the brand and what may be in store for future releases from Sunday’s Finest.  The Gold Fashioned might make the perfect bottle to bring along to your holiday parties this year; save yourself some time at the mini-bar and pour your friends an elevated Old Fashioned instead.   Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out our freshly redesigned website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, whiskey news, and details on our upcoming single barrel picks. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About Sunday’s Finest & Gold Fashioned We've created the world's first luxury RTD cocktail: the Gold Fashioned. It's impeccably sourced with split base whiskeys, our house-made saffron bitters blend, an orange atomizer and runs $150/btl. Last year's blend (5k bottles) sold out and Esquire dubbed it 2021's best bottled cocktail. We're running it back (mid Oct) with a 15y bourbon to up the ante. We believe premium bottled cocktails are here to stay and we'd love the opportunity to chat with you about bringing this conversation and our story to your audience. If you're intrigued, keep reading.  The 2022 blend of the Gold Fashioned cocktail was just released in mid October and can be purchased online. Last year's inaugural offering caused quite a stir. Crafted by former The Violet Hour bartender, Robert Haynes and made with 8yr Bourbon, 5 yr Rye, and Saffron bitters each bottle came complete with a beautiful gift box and a revolutionary orange zest atomizer.  At $150 per bottle, it was the first true luxury RTD to hit the market and a total game changer for the space. Each ingredient in the house-made Bitters blend is of the absolute highest quality and sourced from the country of origin: We're talking Afghan Saffron, Grade A Tahitian Vanilla, Single Estate Ecuadorian Cacao, Seville Orange Peel, Wild Harvest Gentian from the French Alps. Another thing that really sets this one apart is the Orange Zest atomizer.  No other RTD engages all of the senses. Finishing the cocktail with a spritz of fresh orange aromatics puts it on par with any cocktail from even the finest of cocktail bars. Just like last year, this will be a limited release - 3000 bottles - we expect it to move quickly.  Links: Sunday’s Finest Gold Fashioned  Why Sunday's Finest Gold Fashioned Cocktail Costs $150 A Bottle 

We’re celebrating our 200th episode of Bourbon Lens this week. And we couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate than with The Last Drop Distillers. Last Drop recently released their rare, ultra premium blend of Kentucky Straight Whiskies. Our guests today are Rebecca Jago, managing director of The Last Drop Distillers, and Drew Mayville, Sazerac Master Blender and founding member of The Last Drop Assembly. Find out more about this ultra-exclusive release which retails for $3,999 in this week’s episode. You can read our full tasting notes here in our recent review on BourbonLens.com. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out our freshly redesigned website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, whiskey news, and details on our upcoming single barrel picks. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens   Press Release from September 22, 2022:  The Last Drop Distillers of London continues its quest for curating and creating the world’s rarest and most remarkable spirits with the release of its second Signature Blend: Release No 28: The Last Drop Signature Blend of Kentucky Straight Whiskeys. Created by Sazerac Master Blender Drew Mayville, a founding member of The Last Drop Assembly’s panel of spirits industry experts, this bespoke spirit comprises a blend of vintage straight bourbon and rye whiskeys. Impossible to replicate, 1,458 bottles will be released worldwide and available in the U.S. as of October 2022 at a suggested retail price of $3,999 (750ml/121.4 proof). Since becoming Sazerac’s Master Blender in 2004, Drew has cultivated a dream of creating an ultra-rare whiskey for the most discerning of connoisseurs. To achieve this, he began preserving extremely small quantities of his favorite whiskeys at Buffalo Trace Distillery to fulfill this vision. He was confident that using his lifetime of expertise, knowledge and his masterful palate, combined with the incredible liquids available to him, he could make a unique and unparalleled blend. To bring his vision for The Last Drop to life Drew blended vintage whiskeys that he had been saving since he joined the Buffalo Trace Distillery team. He tasted more than 40 different vintage bourbon and rye whiskeys, creating multiple combinations of these spirits before arriving at the final masterpiece that bears his signature. Bottled at 121.4 proof, Drew left this high-proof blend uncut and unfiltered to maximize its flavor and complexity. The resulting liquid is a celebration of the art of blending, allowing the individual components to shine while creating a majestic whole that is truly remarkable and impossible to replicate. Drew uses the analogy of an orchestra to explain his intention: “As a master blender, I wholeheartedly believe that one can take individual components that are already exceptional to create an extraordinarily-beautiful end product,” says Drew. “As with music, a clarinet can be beautiful in its own right. However, when you combine it with other instruments in an orchestra you create a symphony – a masterpiece. This blend fully epitomizes this notion, and it’s been a dream come true to create this truly one-of-a-kind spirit for my friends at The Last Drop.” Drew’s Blend follows The Last Drop Distillers first Signature Blend: a 50 Year Old Blended Scotch Whisky created by Master Blender Colin J.P. Scott. Released in July 2021, this was the brand’s first foray into the creation, as well as curation, of extraordinary spirits by the talented members of The Last Drop Assembly. “It has been a wonderfully exciting experience to work with my friend, colleague and inspiration, Drew Mayville, to create this phenomenal blend,” says Rebecca Jago, managing director, The Last Drop Distillers. “The creation of The Assembly in 2020 was one of The Last Drop’s proudest achievements: to see the visions of such stellar icons of the industry come to life in a Last Drop bottle is, for me, a dream come true.”  Drew Mayville’s Tasting Notes: COLOR: A rich, golden amber hue speaks of the wood, the age and the maturation these whiskeys have been through. The high proof can be seen in the long legs which linger on the glass. NOSE: This reminds me of walking into one of Buffalo Trace’s most famous warehouses, built all those years ago: the atmosphere, the history and the provenance – it packs an evocative punch. Deep, dark fruit, figs, and dates on the nose, some raisins, and an aromatic spiciness, with citrus zest. There is some spiciness from the straight rye, and a creamy, vanilla from the bourbons, yielding a complex and layered flavor. PALATE: To begin with, there are dark fruits, candy and orange peel upfront. From there, we begin a journey through a veritable spice merchant’s storeroom, and into a saddle room full of worn leather and wax. The ages of the whiskeys in this blend, and the magnificent impact of the American oak are here in perfect balance with the individual elements of the blend. A crescendo of rich and raw spiciness transitions across your palate: that balance is pure magic. CONCLUSIONS: The spiciness is challenging the dark fruit, the chocolate notes, and the sweet vanilla. This is the balance and sophistication that arises only rarely when the tangy spice of the rye and the creamy chocolate of the bourbon whiskeys - combined with the sublime influence of the oak - all collide in perfect harmony. Each bottle of The Last Drop Signature Blend of Kentucky Straight Whiskeys is individually numbered and bears Drew’s physical signature. As with all recent Last Drop bottlings, it is artfully-contained in a bespoke bottle that suspends mid-air in an oak frame, held within in a signature green leather case alongside a 50ml miniature for private enjoyment, certificate of bottling and pocket-sized tasting book. About Drew Mayville, Sazerac Master Blender: Drew Mayville has more 40 years of experience with some of the largest companies in the beverage alcohol industry. Drew joined Sazerac (at its Buffalo Trace Distillery location) in 2004 as the Master Blender and Director of Quality. The vast breadth of his experience comes from almost 23 years of experience with Seagram’s, where Drew was the last Master Blender to serve under the Seagram dynasty. At Sazerac, Drew has worked hands on with all the award-winning products produced at Buffalo Trace in addition to the other highly acclaimed spirit categories of the company. Drew is active in overseeing a number of award-winning products produced at various locations for Sazerac, and promoting and educating the public on some of the world’s finest spirits. His passion is not only to make the finest quality products but also to delight and excite the consumer with his work. About Rebecca Jago: Rebecca Jago is the only daughter of Tom Jago, co-founder of The Last Drop Distillers, and legend of the drinks industry. She grew up in London with her parents and three brothers, learning about wine, beer and spirits (and Baileys!) almost by osmosis. Following a degree in linguistics and a career in the design industry, Rebecca joined The Last Drop in 2014 to work alongside her father and his co-founder James Espey. She is now the Managing Director, leading the team as they bring the wonders of The Last Drop bottles to customers around the world. Rebecca is in her element sharing the stories of The Last Drop discoveries and her passion for the business with friends new and old. She has two grown up children: her daughter has the distinction of having our intuitive decanter, Phoebe, named after her. Rebecca’s favourite of our releases (so far) is the 1925 Grande Champagne Cognac: in her own words “as well as being a truly delicious cognac, with a remarkable story to tell, it has the added significance of having been distilled the year my father was born, and bottled the year he died: a fitting testament to a wonderful man.” About The Last Drop Distillers: The Last Drop Distillers was founded in 2008 by two icons of the spirits industry, Tom Jago and James Espey with over 80 years of experience between them. Their aim was to curate the world’s most remarkable spirits by finding treasures across aged spirit categories and sharing them with those who seek the genuinely extraordinary. In 2016, The Last Drop was acquired by the Sazerac Company, one of America’s oldest private, family-owned, distillers. Rebecca continues to lead The Last Drop as Managing Director. To date, The Last Drop Distillers has released just 28 limited bottlings across Scotch Whisky, Cognac, Bourbon and Rum and Japanese Whisky, comprising fewer than 12,000 bottles. Seeking nothing less than exceptional in the spirits they curate, the company’s unwavering commitment is to the quality of the liquid and the pleasure of sharing the treasures they uncover. For more information about The Last Drop visit https://www.lastdropdistillers.com and @lastdropdistillers. For more information about Sazerac visit https://www.sazerac.com. About The Last Drop Assembly: Drew Mayville is one of the six founding members of The Assembly, formed by The Last Drop in 2020. The Assembly is a carefully selected panel of experts drawn from across the spirits industry, each a renowned world-leader in their own category. The inspiration for The Assembly arose from The Last Drop’s passion for sharing: not just the delights of exceptional spirits, but also the knowledge, ideas, expertise and creativity that sit at the heart of the industry. This cross-category forum, unique in the world of spirits, encourages the exchange of knowledge and experience from different industry fields, bringing fresh ideas and new thinking to help inspire and drive The Last Drop’s pursuit of the extraordinary.  The Assembly members also include: Colin Scott, Master Blender for The Last Drop, Richard Seale, Master Distiller & Blender, Foursquare Rum, Louise McGuane, Owner & Bonder, JJ Corry Irish Whiskey, Michael D’Souza, Master Distiller & Blender, Paul John Whisky and Denis Lahouratate, Cellar Master, Domaine de Sazerac, Cognac.  Online & In the News: Last Drop Distillers Exploring The World Of Rare Spirits With The Last Drop Distillers  The Last Drop Releases Some Of The World’s Rarest Whiskies The Last Drop Distillers Launches New American Whiskey Blend – Robb Report The Last Drop Distillers Introduces Release No. 28 - BevNET.com The Last Drop Distillers: a brand history - The Spirits Business  

It’s the return of our “Salute to Service” Veteran’s Day podcast. This week, we are saluting the service of our guest, Arch Watkins, and his partner, Mark McLaughlin, from Old Line Spirits.  Old Line Spirits is based in Maryland and has had a gritty story of building a top class American Single Malt distillery.   We hope you enjoy this episode and toast to Veterans this week!  If you are looking for a Veteran-Owned distillery to support, may we suggest Old Line? Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out our freshly redesigned website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, whiskey news, and details on our upcoming single barrel picks. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About Old Line Spirits: Mark McLaughlin and Arch Watkins met in the Navy flying EA-6B Prowlers, ended up stationed in the same reserve squadron in Baltimore, and embarked on civilian careers after retiring from the Navy. But when you’ve spent decades flying off aircraft carriers and being stationed all over the world, a desk job isn’t enough. The solution? Whiskey. American Single Malt, to be exact. In 2015, they connected with the owners of Golden Distillery, two Vietnam vets looking to pass the torch. Their tutelage and equipment was the start of Old Line Spirits. McLaughlin and Watkins opened Old Line Spirits in 2017 with plenty of distillery space, a courtyard bar and The Ready Room, Maryland’s first full beer, wine and spirits cocktail bar in a distillery. They produce American Single Malt whiskeys and aged Caribbean rums. Their Sherry Cask Finish ASMW was just named the Best American Single Malt and awarded double platinum in the Ascot Awards. McLaughlin and Watkins are also actively involved in the campaign to get the TTB to standardize a definition for the American Single Malt category. For more info on Old Line Spirits, visit their website: Old Line Spirits 

Our guests this week are Steven Grasse and Aaron Goldfarb who are set to release their latest book: Brand Mysticism. The book releases on November 8th and is a must read for anyone looking to add creativity to their life and brand.  This isn't your typical "booze book" and definitely will raise some eyebrows in the marketing world, but Steven Grasse doesn't mind that one bit.  His portfolio speaks for itself; he's created some of the biggest brands including Hendrick's Gin and Sailor Jerry Rum and helped bring new life to some of the world's best brands including Guinness and Miller High Life.  Steven Grasse is an authority on building an authentic, enduring, and deeply beloved (viral) brands.  And Aaron Goldfarb, he's the novelist, author, and journalist responsible for wrangling all these ideas and creativity into one cohesive book.  Bourbon Lens has followed Aaron's work for a long while and were honored to pick his brain for this episode.  A huge thank you to Steven, Aaron, and Punch Media for making this episode happen.  We hope you enjoy it and grab a copy of the book for yourself! Pre-order or purchase your copy of the book via Amazon or buy wherever you find books locally.  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out our freshly redesigned website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, whiskey news, and details on our upcoming single barrel picks. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Len About the Book: BRAND MYSTICISM: CULTIVATE CREATIVITY AND INTOXICATE YOUR AUDIENCE Written By Steven Grasse & Aaron Goldfarb;Illustrated by Ron Short  From the marketing mastermind behind countless iconic booze brands comes an irreverent and wide-ranging treatise on building and maintaining a standout brand in business and life: BRAND MYSTICISM. Steven Grasse made a name for himself as not only an offbeat distillery owner but also the brains behind beloved brands like Hendrick’s Gin and Sailor Jerry Rum and the guy who made cheap-beer-standbys like Narragansett and Miller High Life cool again. Through his work in advertising and marketing, Grasse has changed the game in the booze world and become an authority on building an authentic, enduring, and deeply beloved brand. Food & Wine has called him “the punk-rock prince of small-batch spirits.” “Think of me as the Ben Franklin of hooch, the Thomas Edison of booze. Or just think of me as a crazy middle-aged man who is going to tell you some really funny sometimes slightly fucked-up stories that will hopefully make you laugh and maybe realize there’s quite a bit of merit to having fun trolling people doing art for art’s sake, simply trying shit and not really giving a rat’s ass,” said Steven Grasse. “You might wonder how I became such a Big Cheese in the world of booze. I sometimes wonder the same thing, and while everything you read in my new book is true, it is also total bullshit.”  So how did he do it? Through irreverent tips (why being a troll can be so vital), case studies (when marketing cigarettes taught him about virality) and magical ingredients (who knew beaver anus would change his fortunes), BRAND MYSTICISM guides you through the steps it takes to channel your own entrepreneurial spirit into a business, a creative practice, or a life that breaks with tradition to achieve the remarkable.   About the Authors:  Steven Grasse is an entrepreneur equally influenced by punk rock and New England transcendentalism. Steven has created some of the most outrageous booze brands of the twenty-first century: Hendrick's Gin, Sailor Jerry Rum, Art in the Age Craft Spirits—all seemingly out of thin air. He is the part-owner and creative mastermind behind Narragansett beer, and his agency, Quaker City Mercantile, has brought similar success to beer icons Pilsner Urquell, Guinness, and, most recently, Miller High Life. His first distillery, Tamworth Distilling & Mercantile, opened in 2015 and gained international press and awards within its first year. Steven is also the author of The Cocktail Workshop, Colonial Spirits: A Toast to Our Drunken History, The Good Reverend's Guide to Infused Spirits, and Evil Empire. He lives and works in Philadelphia.  Aaron Goldfarb is a novelist, author, and journalist, who frequently writes about the spirits industry and drinking culture for Esquire, Playboy, PUNCH, and VinePair. His two most recent books are Hacking Whiskey: Smoking, Blending, Fat-Washing, and Other Whiskey Experiments and Gather Around Cocktails: Drinks to Celebrate Usual and Unusual Holidays. His 2018 VinePair article on Grasse, “How Do You Make a Booze Brand Go Viral?,” fittingly, went viral itself and has since been shared online hundreds of thousands of times. Press and ‘In The News’: Purchase your copy of the book via Amazon Meet Steven Grasse | Quaker City Mercantile Steven Grasse | Official Publisher Page | Simon & Schuster How Do You Make a Booze Brand Go Viral? The Master of Craft Explains | VinePair  20 New Cocktail and Spirits Books to Read in Fall and Winter 2022 Brand Mysticism: Cultivate Creativity and Intoxicate Your Audience New Hampshire Distillery Makes Whiskey Out of Invasive Crabs | Smart News| Smithsonian Magazine Invasive Green Crabs Turned Into Whiskey By Tamworth Distilling Worldwise: Gin Distiller Steven Grasse’s Favorite Things in Philadelphia & Beyond | Barron's Art in the Age: Ex-Ad Man Steven Grasse’s Wonderfully Weird Spirits How Guinness Became a Global Powerhouse | Wine Enthusiast These New England distilleries are among the best in America, according to USA Today readers Sacred Profane: The Anti-Hype Brewery in Biddeford, Maine | PUNCH 13 New Ecommerce Books for Fall 2022 Check out Aaron’s Work: Hacking Whiskey: Smoking, Blending, Fat Washing, and Other Whiskey Experiments: Goldfarb, Aaron: 9780999661246: Amazon.com  How Do You Make a Booze Brand Go Viral? The Master of Craft Explains | VinePair  How the ‘Cigar Batch’ Became a Bourbon Industry Sensation | VinePair The Most Famous (and Infamous) Moments in Modern Bourbon Collecting | VinePair How Heaven Hill Bounced Back From Disaster to Become One of the Most Successful Bourbon Brands in America | VinePair Wilderness Trail and the Rise of Whiskey's Fermentation Fever | PUNCH Your Guide to Bourbon Whiskey Terms | PUNCH Bourbon Thrives in a Post-Pappy Era | PUNCH

We’re joined by the founders of American Mash & Grain, CEO Devin Ershow & COO Chase Langdon. Devin and Chase have created a website documentary project to highlight the American Craft Whiskey movement, regularly giving full featured reviews and telling the stories of the best craft whiskey distilleries.  The next progression for their project is marrying some of their favorite featured distilleries into a unique blend of American Whiskey.  Their first volume features 4 varied whiskies that they meld together for “Borrowed Page Volume 1”.    Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out our freshly redesigned website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, whiskey news, and details on our upcoming single barrel picks. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens   About American Mash & Grain  American Mash & Grainbrings together four unique styles and producers to redefine American Whiskey. Borrowed Page Volume 1 is the first release in a limited release series. A partnership between American Mash & Grain and the craft whiskey distilleries we’ve featured on our site. Each volume will be different from the last, weaving the tale of a uniquely American collaboration, a blending of culture, craft, and passion that honors its makers and hopes to move the story of American Whiskey forward. “For so long American whiskey has been thought of as one thing. There are a growing number of craft producers in the U.S. that are working hard to challenge this convention and establish their own local identity of American Whiskey.” - Devin Ershow, CEO American Mash & Grain “American whiskey is as diverse in thought, expression and approach as America itself. We wanted to create a product that highlighted some of the many pioneers, leaders and innovators working hard to redefine American made whiskey.” - Chase Langdon, COO American Mash & Grain Volume 1 is a blend of bourbon, rye and single malt whiskey. 34% Watershed Distillery, Columbus, OH (Straight Bourbon) “The passion Devin and Chase put into this project shows through in their whiskey. Borrowed Page is an authentic collection of spirits and people that have come together to create something special. We are excited about this partnership and are certain these bottles will sell out quickly!” - Greg Lehman, Founder/CEO Watershed Distillery 32% Wigle Whiskey, Pittsburgh, PA (Pennsylvania Straight Rye) "We are so thrilled to partner up with American Mash & Grain. Our Blender, Taylor Bostock, picked one of our favorite Rye barrels from our barrelhouse for this blend to represent Pennsylvania Monongahela Rye. Devin and Chase have brought together some of the most innovative and dedicated craft spirit makers in the US to create a blend that captures the best flavors of this moment in craft distilling. We are so proud to be a part of the Borrowed Page project," - Alexander Grelli, Co-Founder and Owner Wigle Whiskey. 24% Spirits of French Lick, West Baden Springs, IN (Lee Sinclair Bourbon) “American Mash and Grain have been great supporters of Spirits of French lick and craft distilling in general. When we heard they wanted to focus on making a blended whiskey using craft spirits it went without saying that we wanted to be as much a part of that project as we possibly could be. The American craft whiskey movement has become in recent years a true talking point in regards to quality, unique flavors, and the expansion of the American whiskey experience. Using these unique profiles to produce a blended whiskey and present it to an expanded audience that may not be familiar with each independent contributor is a great way to create new customers interested in exploring what once was fringe but is now re-writing what American whiskey distilling can be. It was our distinct pleasure to include a unique 62 gallon, Number 2 char barrel, of our Lee W. Sinclair Bourbon to the project.” - Alan Bishop, Head Distillery Spirits of French Lick 10% Whiskey Del Bac, Tucson, AZ (Mesquite Smoked Single Malt) “We love what the team at American Mash & Grain is doing with the Borrowed Page project and are honored to be included. History is being made right now in American whiskey as we and other incredible distilleries across the country are crafting American single malts with our own stamps of place and terroir. It’s an exciting time for both whiskey makers and drinkers.” -Stephen and Amanda Paul, Co-founders of Whiskey Del Bac. - Stephen Paul, Co-Founder/President Hamilton Distillers Group/Whiskey Del Bac Tasting Notes: Butterscotch, Maple Syrup, Tobacco, Cinnamon, Mesquite BBQ Smoke. More Notes: Borrowed Page American Whiskey exclusively sold on the American Mash & Grain website (mashngrain.myshopify.com) for $75 (exclusive of tax and shipping) American Mash & Grain launched on July 4th, 2020 with the purpose of elevating the profile of the American craft whiskey movement. The blend was created in collaboration with Anne Dimmick. Sourcing as a concept is not a new idea, but so much of it is hidden behind NDAs. We are opting for hyper transparency, featuring our distillery partners on the front of the label. “American Whiskey" is currently stigmatized as “cheap” or “poorly made.” We want todestigmatize American Whiskey. "American Whiskey“ is a catch all for any American whiskey that doesn’t meet the guidelines for standardized whiskies like bourbon or rye. With "American Single Malt" on the precipice of becoming a standardized category, "American Whiskey" is the last bastion of unbridled innovation and experimentation. Links: American Mash & Grain Bourbon Lens Review of Mash and Grain Borrowed Page Volume 1 Purchase a Bottle Here

We’re joined by the “International Man of Whisky”, Nate Gana.  He’s the man behind Bevridge, a carefully curated whisky experience that ships straight to your door, and currently has over 125K followers on his Instagram.  We discuss his views in the world of whisky and the growth of American Single Malt as well as the international impact of Bourbon. About Nate Gana:Nate is the Founder of @NateGana on Instagram (formerly known as @SingleMaltDaily), a platform of over 130K+ followers, as well as a writer who consistently writes for Food and Wine Magazine, Forbes, Bloomberg and Men’s Journal.  Nate is a San Francisco World Spirits Competition Judge and an Aspen Food and Wine Panelist.  He is also the Co-Founder of Bevridge; Bevridge brings together curated tasting experiences, compelling on-demand content, and opportunities to engage with industry experts. Nate Gana in the News and Online: Nate Gana (@nategana) • Instagram photos and videos Single Malt Daily Bevridge.co Whisky Hunting: 20 Rare and Incredibly Hard-to-Find Whiskies Worth the Investment Single Malt Daily's Nate Gana Breaks Down The World Of Whisk(e)y Investing Nate Gana - Food & Wine 10 Best Whiskies to Start Your Collection 9 Best Bourbons to Start Your Collection Nate Gana’s Profile | Freelance Journalist | Muck Rack How whisky became a smart investment: millennial Asian collectors are bidding big for rare single malts from Macallan, Suntory, Talisker and Laphroaig

Our guest today is Tim Pitts, the Senior District Manager for Kentucky and Tennessee for William Grant & Sons Inc.  Working in the land of Kentucky Bourbon and Tennessee Whiskey, Tim is up for the challenge of bringing some of the world’s best Scotch Whisky to consumers in the area.  William Grant & Sons is an independent, family owned premium spirits company. Their core lineup includes some of the most well-known brands in spirits: Glenfiddich, Grant's, The Balvenie, Tullamore D.E.W., Drambuie, Hendrick's Gin, Sailor Jerry Rum and Monkey Shoulder.  Editor’s Note:  Please excuse the brief audio issue with our guest’s audio during 1:17 - 2:50 Timestamp.  The audio returns to normal for the remainder of the episode. About William Grant & Sons: William Grant & Sons is an independent, family owned premium spirits company.  When our founder William Grant established our company in 1887, he had a vision to make the best dram in the valley, and that vision stands true today as we build brands that are loved the world over. These include our eight core brands: Glenfiddich, Grant's, The Balvenie, Tullamore D.E.W., Drambuie, Hendrick's Gin, Sailor Jerry Rum and Monkey Shoulder.  We have distilling and bottling operations in Scotland, Ireland, Iceland, India, the US and Mexico and a team of over 2,600 people at 48 global locations.  We consistently win the industry’s top accolades, which are testament to the quality of our liquid, our dedication to our craft and the talent of our people.  One hundred and thirty four years on, we are leaders in the international spirits industry and have ambitious plans for growth to ensure our business is sustainable for the long term.  William Grant was a true pioneer. He worked with a close-knit team of talented and passionate people to create a legacy that endures and their spirit is very much at the heart of our culture today. Learn more on their website: http://www.williamgrant.com  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out our freshly redesigned website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, whiskey news, and details on our upcoming single barrel picks. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens   William Grant & Sons In The News: William Grant lifts profit despite supply chain woes | Scotland | The Times William Grant & Sons launches Glenfiddich Perpetual Collection Thirstie Launches William Grant & Sons First U.S. Branded E-Commerce Sites With The Balvenie And Glenfiddich Online Shops Glenfiddich-maker William Grant & Sons sees sales rebound but warns of 'challenges and unrest' | The Scotsman William Grant & Sons sees turnover and profit increase - DRAM Scotland William Grant & Sons Hendrick's Neptunia Gin - Product Launch - Just Drinks William Grant & Sons bolsters travel retail team

It is the Finale Episode of “Off Hours with Bourbon Lens”. And, to celebrate the Finale, we are releasing our Single Barrel Selection of Off Hours Bourbon.  This is an extremely limited release of less than 100 bottles.  We couldn't think of a better way to cap off this successful podcast mini-series run.  If you've enjoyed this content, do us a big favor and pick yourself up a bottle to share with your friends and family in your 'Off Hours'.   Bottles are available online and shipped to your door, check out the full tasting notes and product listing here:  SharedPour.com Off Hours x Bourbon Lens Single Barrel Selection This week’s episode features Seth Benhaim, founder of Broken Barrel Whiskey. Broken Barrel and Bourbon Lens have collaborated on several podcasts and even our very own whiskey over the last 4 years and we were excited to sit down with him for this episode. Don't miss your chance to purchase your own bottle via SharedPour.com.  This episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Find the time and the moments in between. Find them with us in the Off Hours. Find out more about Off Hours Bourbon on their website. This has been another production of Bourbon Lens LLC.  Thank you for your continued support. Scott & JakeBourbon Lens

We're wrapping up our coverage of the 2022 Kentucky Bourbon Festival and Bourbon Heritage Month with some live recordings on-site at the Festival.  We’re joined by some great brands and distilleries like Kentucky Peerless, O.H. Ingram, Broken Barrel, RD1 Spirits, Old Steelhouse Distillery, and Bardstown Bourbon Co. Don’t miss out on the 2023 Kentucky Bourbon Festival, sign up for their newsletter via KyBourbonFestival.com.  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out our freshly redesigned website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, whiskey news, and details on our upcoming single barrel picks. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens

Wrapping up Bourbon Heritage Month at Limestone Branch Distillery in Lebanon, KY.  We’re joined by Steve Beam, Master Distiller, to chat about his latest Limited Edition release of Yellowstone Bourbon and the Master Distiller Road Tour schedule.  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens Links: Courier Journal Feature on Limestone Branch Distillery 87: Yellowstone Bourbon and Limestone Branch Limestone Branch Distillery Limestone Branch Distillery Announces 2022 Yellowstone Limited Edition Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey - BevNET.com Limestone Branch Distillery Launches Yellowstone Family Recipe - BevNET.com

We are joined by Marcus Niemann to discuss his involvement in Kentucky To The World, a non-profit which celebrates the accomplishments of Kentuckians across the globe.  Kentucky To The World is having a major fundraiser to cap off Bourbon Heritage Month and we want you to grab a ticket to support a great cause and have the opportunity to win some rare bourbon.  Full details on the campaign can  be found below, but how about a chance to win a Four Roses 2017 Limited Edition 50th Anniversary Small Batch Bourbon (frequently referred to as the “Al Young Bottle”).  The Grand Prize pack is worth over $7,000 and only 500 tickets will be sold. Bourbon Lens has donated two bottles from our Lux Row Barrel Picks, single barrels of Rebel Wheated Bourbon and Ezra Brooks which will be released this fall. Don’t miss this opportunity; and talk about great odds! Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens Learn more about the "Best of Bourbon Raffle 2"  Don’t miss your chance to win rare bourbon expressions during our celebration of #BourbonHeritageMonth on Tuesday, Sept. 27, from 6 to 8 pm during our Bourbon Social at The Local Seltzery prior to the live prize drawing at 7:30 pm. Our second bourbon collection grand prize features a standout selection of six unique expressions from iconic Kentucky bourbon brands.  Additional prizes include Misc Goods Co. Black Ceramic Flask with two decks of KTW Illustrated Playing Cards and Lux Row Distiller’s Collection Rebel Bourbon Bottles with tasting glass set.  To enter to win one of our prizes, purchase your tickets for $50 each at the link in bio now through Sept. 27th. Visit www.kentuckytotheworld.org/raffle-rules for official rules and regulations. Open to the general public, ticket purchasers and the person named on a ticket must be at least 21 years of age at the time of purchase and reside in Kentucky. Offer void where prohibited by law. License # EXE-0002505. This event is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Instagram. Learn more about the Best of Bourbon Raffle 2 

Recording inside the Vintage Whiskey Library at Bardstown Bourbon Co., we sit down with Head Distiller Nick Smith. Enjoy this week’s podcast as we talk about Bardstown’s “coming of age” whiskies (own distillate) that will release in the very near future and their blending and Collaboration Series of whiskies.  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens

We’re back for Episode 11 of “Off Hours with Bourbon Lens” featuring Jackie Zykan with Hidden Barn Whiskey and two-time former guest of Bourbon Lens Podcast. This episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Find the time and the moments in between. Find them with us in the Off Hours. Find out more about Off Hours Bourbon on their website. This has been another production of Bourbon Lens LLC.  Thank you for your continued support. Scott & JakeBourbon Lens

Jake and Scott are kicking off Bourbon Heritage Month with some of the bourbons they'll be seeking to add to their shelves. Which bourbon releases are you most excited for this month? Any exciting new or limited releases you can’t wait to find? Let us know by sending us a message on social media or via our website.  And happy hunting!! Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens

We’re talking Texas Whiskey with Balcones Distilling.  Balcones is located in Waco Texas and is known as the producer of “The Original Texas Whisky”.  We’re excited to discuss what makes Texas unique; it’s definitely more than its hot weather too.  We’re joined by Gabe RiCharde, the Director of Spirits at Balcones Distilling, where he has worked for nearly six years. Gabe has had a hand in many of the unique whiskies coming out of Waco, including one of the wildest whiskies we’ve tried in a long time; Big Baby, a Bottled in Bond, 5 year Corn Whisky, aged entirely in tequila casks.  We also discuss Balcones' Pot Still Bourbon, a great kickoff to Bourbon Heritage Month.   Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens     About Balcones: Born and bred in Waco, Texas, Balcones Distilling is an award-winning distillery that marries centuries of distilling tradition with the bold, original flavors of Texas. Synonymous with quality and innovation in the whisky industry, Balcones is known for emphasizing high-quality ingredients and drawing authentic influences from all over Texas. To date, the distillery has earned over 550 national and international tasting awards and accolades for their whiskies and spirits. In 2008, Balcones was nothing more than an idea driven by a passion to create something original and authentic, right here in the Heart of Texas. It all started in an old welding shop under a bridge in Waco. For the next year, we replaced the roofing, knocked out walls, laid brick, cut pipes, installed copper pot stills from Portugal, and shoehorned a whisky distillery inside that quaint building. Proud of what we had accomplished on our own, we began distilling in 2009.   Links:   Balcones Distilling  Bourbon Lens Review of Balcones "Big Baby" Tequila Cask Corn Whisky  Balcones Distilling: The Barrel Nerds - American Whiskey Magazine 142: What is Driving the Texas Whiskey Boom? - Bourbon Lens Industry reacts to American single malt whiskey designation proposal Bourbon Lens Instagram - Balcones Big Baby Review Balcones Distilling and ZZ Top’s Tres Hombres Whisky Returns to Shelves - BevNET.com Waco's Balcones Distilling Is Rightly Proud Of Its Lineage. | Central Track All 8 Balcones Whiskies, Blind Tasted And Ranked Why American Single Malt Is The Whiskey Industry’s New Frontier

We’re back for Episode 10 of “Off Hours with Bourbon Lens” featuring Sam Montgomery, National Brand Ambassador for Bardstown Bourbon Company. Find out what keeps Sam motivated and how she finds time to relax between her travels and her daily efforts to elevate Bardstown Bourbon Co and her craft cocktail game. This episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Find the time and the moments in between. Find them with us in the Off Hours. Find out more about Off Hours Bourbon on their website. This has been another production of Bourbon Lens LLC.  Thank you for your continued support. Jake & ScottBourbon Lens

Jake sits down with one of his favorite brands to talk with High West Distillery’s Brendan Coyle.  Brendon, Master Distiller, talks about High West’s evolving core lineup and limited release schedule.  What makes High West Whiskey unique and why does it have a cult-like following?  Grab yourself a bottle of High West next time you see it on a shelf and find out!  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens     About High West: High West Distillery was founded in 2006 by David Perkins and his wife, Jane. David, a former biochemist, was inspired to open his own distillery after seeing the parallels between the fermentation and distilling process and his own work in biochemistry during a trip to a whiskey distillery in Kentucky. In 2004, David and his family relocated to Park City, Utah to begin their new venture, where they began distilling in 2007. They chose Park City because of David’s love of the Old West and Utah’s little-known whiskey history. High West began with humble roots, opening a small, 250-gallon still and Saloon in an historic livery stable and garage. What was once a small operation in downtown Park City has grown to be an internationally-recognized, award winning brand. Links:   High West Whiskey 82: High West Whiskey - Bourbon Lens 98: A Midwinter Night's Dram by High West Whiskey - Bourbon Lens High West American Single Malt 2021 Review - Bourbon Lens Park City’s High West Distillery pledges $1M to western land preservation  High West Master Distiller Explains Blending Sourced and Own-Made Whiskey - Whisky Advocate Interview: Head To The Rockies For High West Distillery Whiskey Inspiration Interview: High West Master Distiller Brendan Coyle on The Future of American Single Malt Whiskey – COOL HUNTING® How High West Is Made | Huckberry High West, a Utah distillery, proudly drags the whiskey industry’s dirty little secret out of the shadows — Quartz

We’re back for Episode 9 of “Off Hours with Bourbon Lens” featuring David Mandell, the man behind many projects in the heart of Bourbon Country; Bardstown Kentucky.  David is co-founder of Bardstown Bourbon Co. and is currently with Stoli Group/Kentucky Owl and is the Chairman of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival. Jake sits down with David to find out how he turns off his business mind and finds time for himself. This episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Find the time and the moments in between. Find them with us in the Off Hours. Find out more about Off Hours Bourbon on their website. This has been another production of Bourbon Lens LLC.  Thank you for your continued support. Scott & JakeBourbon Lens   About David Mandell: David Mandell is the co-founder and former President & CEO of The Bardstown Bourbon Company, (“BBCo”). At BBCo, Mandell created, launched, and managed the company’s Napa-valley bourbon distillery destination experience in Bardstown, Kentucky. Mandell led the development and operation of what is now one of the largest and most sophisticated whiskey distilleries in the United States. Producing custom rye, whiskey and bourbon for prominent brands including Jefferson’s, High West, Belle Meade, Hirsch and many others through its one-of-a-kind Collaborative Distilling Program. Mandell was also responsible for the development and launch of the Company’s bourbon brands, full-scale restaurant and bar, and visitors center. During his tenure at BBCo, Mandell served on the Board of the Kentucky Distillers Association, the Bourbon Capital Community Alliance, and currently serves on the Kentucky Bourbon Festival Board of Directors. Mandell is a shareholder of BBCo.

Our guest this week is Bobby DeMars, founder and CEO of Blind Barrels. Bobby developed Blind Barrels as a quarterly blind tasting experience that ships straight to your door. Blind Barrels is an exploration of the craft whiskey scene of America and we were excited to test our palates. Blind tastings remove any “label bias” that whiskey drinkers may encounter when tasting their whiskies and we’ve found that blind tasting is one of the best ways to get serious about learning whiskey.  Sign up for a one off box, or save some extra cash by signing up for a year’s subscription of 4 unique tasting lineups. Check them out at BlindBarrels.com. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About Blind Barrels: Blind Barrels was born to disrupt the whiskey industry, by showcasing American craft whiskey that don’t make their way to liquor store shelves due to distribution limitations. Our blind tastings are all about discovery, education, removing brand bias, and supporting smaller distillers who are making some amazing, innovative, and delicious products. Every quarter (March, June, September, and December), a premium tasting box will ship to Blind Barrels members, which includes four 50 mL samples, labeled Samples A, B, C, and D. The box will also include an introduction to the club, a tasting table, and a QR Code and link to learn what spirits are in each sample - distillery, mash, abv, tasting notes, distillery back story. If a member discovers a new whiskey they wish to add to their cabinet or share with their friends, shipping discounts are available for full bottle purchases in our Bottle Shop. Members will have access to rare offerings from Craft distilleries, including rare and limited selections from American craft distilleries. About Bobby DeMars: Bobby DeMars is the Founder & CEO of Blind Barrels - a blind whiskey tasting subscription that is disrupting the industry’s current distribution model by showcasing American craft distilleries, ones which rarely get the shelf space they deserve. The recent quarantine brought about blind whiskey tastings with friends, and DeMars saw an opportunity for a startup unlike any other in the alcohol industry. These blind tastings are all about discovery, education, removing brand bias, and, of course, supporting smaller distillers that are making some amazing handmade products. Each quarter, subscribers get to test their senses by tasting and discovering hard-to-try-or-find craft whiskey brands - ones that deserve to be discovered. A former USC football player (1997-2001), DeMars is an award-winning filmmaker whose documentary, "The Business of Amateurs" (2016), took on the NCAA’s exploitation of college athletes and the prevalence of brain trauma inherent to college football. He is on the oversight committee for the National College Players Association (NCPA). Both the film and the NCPA have been instrumental in passing laws for college athlete rights, including the Supreme Court ruling in 2021 that opened the door for college athletes to make money from their Name Image Likeness (NIL).

Our guest is Bruce Joseph, Master Distiller of Old Potrero Straight Rye Whiskey for Hotaling & Co.  Bruce previously appeared back in Episode 74 (circa June 2020), but he’s back with his unique malted rye whiskey and it is now bearing a higher age statement and some killer new packaging.  The malted rye mashbill is pot distilled in San Francisco and admittedly is one of the most unique whiskies we’ve tried during this podcast’s history. If you want to flex your palate and see what else is out there in craft whiskey, we highly recommend you find a bottle of Old Potrero’s 6 year aged stated Straight Rye Whiskey.   Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens   From their June 2022 Press Release: Hotaling & Co. is proud to announce the relaunch of the legendary whiskey brand, Old Potrero Straight Rye Whiskey, credited as the first American Craft Whiskey to hit the market since prohibition. The Old Potrero relaunch will feature new packaging and bottle design geared towards today’s contemporary whiskey drinker, who appreciates an excellent dram with an iconic heritage and a modern-day appeal. Originally created by Fritz Maytag, the beverage visionary and founder of Hotaling & Co., (formerly Anchor Distilling Co.), Old Potrero Rye Whiskey is a bold homage to the original artisanal whiskies of America, a testament to the power of the pioneering spirit and the celebrated return of pot-distilled whiskey in the United States. Since 1994, the whiskey has been distilled in small copper pot stills at the San Francisco-based distillery, and in 2010 was passed down to current Master Distiller, Bruce Joseph, who has worked alongside Fritz since the first barrels were laid in the early 90’s. “We are thrilled to usher Old Potrero into a new era,” says Master Distiller, Bruce Joseph. "With the same bold liquid within, Old Potrero’s new packaging and bottle embody the boldness of its home-base, San Francisco. A city that’s resilient, creative and richly historic, just like Old Potrero.” The new packaging redesign, created by design agency Stranger & Stranger, features a dark wooden top with a natural cork stopper stamped with Old Potrero branding for a premium craft feel. The bottle’s perforated edges and ticket-style copy holding devices connect back to the historic cable cars of San Francisco. And the new label features the same copper pot still used at the distillery since its inception as well as one of the world’s most celebrated and iconic sights – The Golden Gate Bridge. The font, Fog City Gothic, is used throughout the label as a nod to the type used on signage seen throughout San Francisco. “The bottle’s design was inspired by the juxtaposition of San Francisco’s architecture, between the past and the present,” says Luis Rivas Ball, Senior Brand Lead American Whiskeys at Hotaling and Co. “From the perforated edges and ticket-style holding devices that connect back to the cable cars to the copper pot still and Golden Gate Bridge in the logo, Old Potrero is a true representation of San Francisco.” Although the brand is launching a bold and eye-catching new design, what’s inside will remain unchanged – the same award winning 100% malted rye whiskey, now aged longer for added smoothness and complexity. Highlights on the Old Potrero Straight Rye Whiskey 6 years-old and the Old Potrero Old Single Barrel 100% Malted Rye Whiskey are as follows: Old Potrero Straight Rye Whiskey 6-Year-Old (SRP $64.99) marked the official return of pot distilled rye whiskey to the US. Distilled from a 100% malted rye mash bill in the same copper post still since the 1990’s, the liquid is then matured in new, charred, 24-month air dried, extra-fine grain, American white oak barrels for a minimum of six years. Tasting notes include brown sugar, black cherry, spice, and maple with a nutty finish, satisfying the enthusiast’ desire for bolder flavors and higher strength whiskeys. The Old Potrero Single Barrel Rye Whiskey (SRP $89.99) is aged in extra fine grain American Oak. The wood is air dried for 24 months and the barrels are fully toasted and charred by hand over an oak fire. The mash of 100% malted rye is fermented for four days and then double distilled in traditional copper pot whiskey stills. This expression is slated to debut in later 2022. About Old Potrero Old Potrero Rye Whiskey is a testament to the power of the pioneering spirit and the celebrated return of pot- distilled whiskey in the United States. Created by Fritz Maytag, the same beverage visionary who sparked the craft beer movement with his purchase of Anchor Brewing in 1965 and the founder of the original Anchor Distilling Co., now Hotaling & Co., Old Potrero is credited as the first American craft whiskey to hit the market since Prohibition. It is distilled in a small copper pot still at the Hotaling & Co. Distillery on San Francisco’s Potrero Hill Farm from a mash of 100% rye malt, with rye being the grain of choice for America’s first distillers. About Hotaling & Co. Hotaling & Co., the leading San Francisco importer & distiller, offers the finest curated portfolio of premium artisanal spirits including Luxardo Liqueurs, Nikka Whisky, Kavalan Whisky, HINE Cognac, Denizen Rum, and HIRSCH Selected Whiskeys. Hotaling & Co., originally named Anchor Distilling Company, was established in 1993 and is credited with releasing America’s first craft whiskey (Old Potrero) and American craft gin (Junipero Gin) after Prohibition. In 2010, Anchor Distilling Company was sold to a business partnership that included Tony Foglio and London's oldest wine and spirit merchant, Berry Bros. & Rudd and began expanding to incorporate a collection of super-premium artisanal spirits imported from around the world. In 2017, Anchor Distilling became Hotaling &Co. The new name is a nod to one of Anchor Distilling’s most beloved small batch whiskies (Old Potrero Hotaling’s Whiskey) and to the San Francisco legend A.P. Hotaling, who came out West during the Gold Rush and quickly became one of the most reputable spirits dealers in the country. Today, Hotaling & Co. celebrates exciting growth and achievements, marking its 26th year of distilling and its 10th year of commercially uniting artisan distillers from around the world and sharing their stories to discerning consumers.  For more details about Old Potrero please visit OldPotrero.com or HotalingandCo.com.

We’re back for Episode 8 of “Off Hours with Bourbon Lens” featuring Marcus Niemann, the future Director of Quality and R&D at Michter's Distillery and former guest of our Behind the Scenes at Four Roses Episode way back on Episode 39.  Marcus is a long-time friend of Jake's who is passionate about philanthropy, bike riding, fatherhood, and fermentation. This episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Find the time and the moments in between. Find them with us in the Off Hours. Find out more about Off Hours Bourbon on their website. This has been another production of Bourbon Lens LLC.  Thank you for your continued support. Scott & JakeBourbon Lens

Putting a wine-maker’s spin on blending bourbon and rye, Sean Joseph’s utilizes his background as a Wine Sommelier to blend yearly vintages of Pinhook.  We discuss the Pinhook approach to blending and the work behind the horse racing-inspired branding.  It’s clear that there is a lot more to this whiskey than colorful wax.  Have you tried Pinhook Whiskies before?  Let us know your thoughts by dropping us a line on social media. About Pinhook: The standard approach to American whiskey uses blending and a fixed proof to replicate an established flavor profile batch after batch. Breaking with this tradition, Pinhook treats each set of barrels as a new vintage, shaped by the natural variations in the ingredients and the elements. Working in small batches, we craft each vintage to express the best whiskey rather than the same whiskey, and set the proof to optimize the unique attributes of that group of barrels. To differentiate these expressions from each other and to help identify the same expression across multiple vintages, we have developed a visual language, inspired by jockeys’ silks. Click Here to learn more about  what each component signifies. About Sean Josephs: Sean Josephs is a founder of Pinhook and the Master Blender, a role in which he directs Castle & Key in the distillation of Pinhook's custom mashbills and blends and proofs every Pinhook vintage. Sean's background is as an award-winning restaurateur, certified sommelier and nationally-acclaimed whiskey and cocktail expert. After cutting his teeth at Chanterelle and Per Se in New York City, Sean opened three American Whiskey bars and restaurants: Char No. 4 and Maysville in New York and Kenton's in New Orleans. The food and bar programs have been recognized by publications ranging from Esquire to the Wall Street Journal. Sean has appeared on the New York Times’ wine and spirits tasting panel on several occasions, has authored articles on bourbon, and is frequently quoted as a whiskey and cocktail authority. Sean is a graduate of the Colorado College.

We’re back for Episode 7 of “Off Hours with Bourbon Lens” featuring Michael Paladini, co-founder of Penelope Bourbon. This episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Find the time and the moments in between. Find them with us in the Off Hours. Find out more about Off Hours Bourbon on their website. This has been another production of Bourbon Lens LLC.  Thank you for your continued support. Scott & JakeBourbon Lens

Rare, old whiskies are the subject of today's podcast as we sit down with Preservation Distillery in Bardstown Kentucky.  Jake tastes through a flight of Preservation whiskies, including Rare Perfection, Very Olde St. Nick, and Wattie Boone & Sons. Our guest today is Jake Feldhuse who tells the brand's history, story, and a little bit about what might be in store for the distillery. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens

We’re back for Episode 6 of “Off Hours with Bourbon Lens” featuring David DeFazio, Co-Founder of Wyoming Whiskey and avid outdoorsman. This episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Find the time and the moments in between. Find them with us in the Off Hours. Find out more about Off Hours Bourbon on their website. This has been another production of Bourbon Lens LLC.  Thank you for your continued support. Scott & JakeBourbon Lens

Year 2 of the revamped Kentucky Bourbon Festival is just 2 months away. “Whiskey Only. Only In Bardstown.” is the tagline for the 2022 edition of the Festival. One of Kentucky's biggest events that celebrates its native spirit is returning for 2022, and tickets are on sale. The 31st Kentucky Bourbon Festival will be held Sept. 16 through Sept. 18 in Bardstown. Hear from Festival President Randy Prasse as he discusses last year’s event as well as what the future holds for the Festival.  Buy your tickets today as you don’t want to miss this event.  Premium and Specialty Event tickets go on sale August 1 at 11am EDT.  Here are the details on the ticket packages still available: 3 x Day 'Bourbon Taster' $125.00 + shipping fee Friday, Saturday, Sunday Admission Sampling from all participating distillery booths throughout the weekend 'Wee' Glencairn KBF-branded nosing and tasting glass - one glass per guest Ability to purchase bottles from the distillery booths AND exclusive KBF Single Barrel bottles from the KBF Bottle Shop Access to distillery booths, educational sessions, musical entertainment, food trucks, and exhibits 1 x Day 'Sunday Sampler' $75.00 + shipping fee Sunday Only Admission Sampling from all participating distillery booths throughout the weekend 'Wee' Glencairn KBF-branded nosing and tasting glass - one glass per guest Ability to purchase bottles from the distillery booths AND exclusive KBF Single Barrel bottles from the KBF Bottle Shop Access to distillery booths, educational sessions, musical entertainment, food trucks, and exhibits Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens

We’re back with Episode 5 of “Off Hours with Bourbon Lens” featuring Ashley and Colby Frey, Founders of Frey Ranch Distillery in Fallon Nevada. This episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Find the time and the moments in between. Find them with us in the Off Hours. Find out more about Off Hours Bourbon on their website. This has been another production of Bourbon Lens LLC.  Thank you for your continued support. Scott & JakeBourbon Lens

We are catching up with Old Elk’s Master Distiller, Greg Metze, since his last appearance back in Episode 101.  Old Elk Distillery is continuing to grow, expand its limited release portfolio , and experiment with blends and finishes. We taste their Master’s Blend Series offerings, Four Grain Bourbon and Double Wheat. Find out what’s going on in Fort Collins Colorado in this week’s episode of Bourbon Lens.  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   e are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens   About Greg Metze Greg Metze, Master Distiller at Old Elk Distillery, has four decades of distilling experience, starting at the Joseph E. Seagram & Sons Distillery located in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, in 1978. He is considered one of the spirits industry’s premier master distillers and has had a hand in crafting many of the whiskies on the shelf today. Greg’s connection to Old Elk traces back to the distillery’s inception. He was master distiller at MGP Ingredients when Old Elk Distillery asked him, in 2013, to create the signature mash bill for Old Elk Blended Straight Bourbon Whiskey that would bring to life the vision of Old Elk’s founder, Curt Richardson. With an unrestricted approach, Greg’s direction helped develop a custom mashbill with four times more malted barley than the conventional recipe. After spending most of his career at Seagram & Sons (which later became LDI and then MGP Ingredients), Greg was offered the Master Distiller position at Old Elk. He joined Old Elk Distillery in 2016, marking the first time he has ever worked exclusively for one brand.   Greg and head distiller Kate Douglas developed Old Elk’s proprietary Slow CutTM proofing process, where the liquid is proofed down over an extended period of time instead of the traditional 24-48 hours. This results in less heat created during the proofing process, and thus a smoother tasting bourbon. All Old Elk whiskies, including this wheat whiskey, go through the Slow Cut™  proofing process. While Greg quietly earned fame among whiskey enthusiasts as the master distiller behind many popular sourced whiskey brands, he now has a distillery and a legacy brand to call “home.”

We’re back with Episode 4 of “Off Hours with Bourbon Lens” featuring John Wadell, Single Barrel Curator for Kentucky Peerless Distilling and Founder of The Stave & Bean Coffee Co. This episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Find the time and the moments in between. Find them with us in the Off Hours. Find out more about Off Hours Bourbon on their website. Follow John on Instagram @bourbon_colonel86. Learn more about Kentucky Peerless and The Stave & Bean Coffee Co. on their websites. This has been another production of Bourbon Lens LLC.  Thank you for your continued support.  For exclusive opportunities and content, be sure to support our Patreon. Scott & JakeBourbon Lens

Are you looking to plan your next weekend trip?  Check out all Louisville has to offer in this "Travel To-Do List" episode of Bourbon Lens. Jake discusses ideas for your next bourbon-centric trip to Kentucky. You are guaranteed to find some places you’ll love in this episode. Be sure to let us know your favorite tourist destinations in Louisville. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow  us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.  And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens   Image Credit:  Louisville Tourism, GoToLouisville.com

Episode 3 of “Off Hours with Bourbon Lens” features a long-time supporter of Bourbon Lens; Bob Cutler from Novio's Bistro in Bangor Maine.  We are honored to have the support of Bob and his team at Novio's Bistro over the years and it's our privilege to have Bob as one of our guests on this podcast mini-series. As always, this episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Find the time and the moments in between. Find them with us in the Off Hours. Find out more about Off Hours Bourbon on their website. This has been another production of Bourbon Lens LLC.  Thank you for your continued support. Scott & Jake Bourbon Lens