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

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Bardstown Bourbon Company Discovery Series #11. This blend of 6, 10 and 13 year old bourbon is 118.1 proof and $140 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

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

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

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review King of Kentucky. This 16 year old bourbon is 125.8 proof and $300 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

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

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

On this special edition of Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review the 2023 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. The collection includes: Sazerac Rye 18 Year, Thomas H. Handy, Eagle Rare 17 Year, William Larue Weller, and George T. Stagg. Each bottle has a suggested retail price of $125. What's our favorite this year? Watch to find out. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for November 17th 2023. There was an attempt to reroute 21 pallets of bourbon from the Glenmore Distillery, Dixon Dedman releases Gem of Kentucky, and Michter’s is dropping a 25 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon.Show Notes: Allied Market Research new report on bourbon growth Owensboro Police Department says there was an attempt to reroute 21 pallets of bourbon from the Glenmore Distillery 10th Anniversary of the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery opened its distillery in Frankfort Lost Lantern opens a tasting room 15 recipients of the American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund grants Conecuh Ridge Distillery is planning for a May 2024 opening KY state lawmakers being pushed for self-distribution Dread River Distilling Co. is releasing Master Series Batch 2 Dixon Dedman proudly presents Gem of Kentucky 291 Colorado Whiskey’s three new limited releases Westward Whiskey Milestone Great Lakes Distillery will be releasing its Still & Oak Black Friday Bourbon Frey Ranch American Single Malt Smoked Whiskey HIRSCH Selected Whiskeys debuts the third edition of The Single Barrel and the second edition of The Single Barrel Double Oak Dickel Bourbon Aged 18 Years Michter’s 25 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon @alliedmarketresearch @evanwilliamsbourbon @jmattingly1845 @lostlantern @westwardwhiskey @greatlakesdistillery @freyranch @michterswhiskey @lostlanternwhiskey @clydemayswhiskey @2xowhiskey @dixon_dedman Support this podcast on Patreon

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

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Still Austin Red Corn Bourbon Whiskey. This 4 year old bourbon is 100 proof and $80 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

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

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

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Dragon's Milk Origin Bourbon. This 5 year old bourbon is 95 proof and $45 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

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

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

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Thirteenth Colony Southern Bourbon. This 4-6 year old bourbon is 95 proof and $45 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

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

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

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Rare Hare Lucky Bastard Whiskey. This 30 year old Canadian whiskey is 89 proof and $600 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

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

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

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Elijah Craig Ryder Cup Toasted Barrel Bourbon. This non-age state bourbon is 94 proof and $100 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

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

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

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Very Olde St. Nick Immaculata. This non-age state bourbon is 118.1 proof and $260 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

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

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

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Old Forester 2023 Birthday Bourbon. This 12 year old bourbon is 96 proof and $170 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

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

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

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Four Roses 135th Anniversary Limited Edition Small Batch. This blend of 12-25 year old bourbon is 108 proof and $200 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

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

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

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review the 2023 Parker’s Heritage Collection. This 10 year old cask strength rye whiskey is 128.8 proof and $185 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for September 15th 2023. Kentucky Owl gets a new Master Blender, Pursuit Spirits is unveiling the Pursuit United Private Select (PUPS) program, and more bourbon releases than you can handle.Show Notes: Southern Distilling Company partnership agreement with the Carolina Panthers The Supreme Court of New York has denied Diageo’s motion to dismiss the lawsuit by Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Maureen Robinson has taken over blending duties from John Rhea for Kentucky Owl The Speed Art Museum unveiled a stunning lineup for its Art of Bourbon Pursuit Spirits is unveiling the Pursuit United Private Select (PUPS) program Jack Daniel’s Bonded Rye Whiskey Buzzard’s Roost 6 - Year Old Single Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon Blade and Bow 22-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Copper & Kings Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Lost Lantern Fall 2023 Single Cask Collection 2XO American Oak and The Tribute Blend Joe Montana announced a new partnership with The Gold Bar Spirits Company Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Single Batch Series: Batch 033: Triple Peat Hardin’s Creek Boston Blue Run Spirits Reflection II Barrell Bourbon Cask Finish Series Barrell Craft Spirits' 10th Anniversary Bourbon Bardstown Bourbon Company Collaborative Series finished in Goose Island Bourbon County Brand Stout barrels @southerndistilling @kentuckyowl @speedartmuseum @pursuitspirits @jackdaniels_us @buzzardsroostwhiskey @bladeandbowwhiskey @copperandkings @lostlanternwhiskey @2xowhiskey @joemontana @goldbarwhiskey @chattwhiskey @bluerunspirits @barrellbourbon @bardstownbourbonco @gooseisland Support this podcast on Patreon

The bourbon landscape has evolved dramatically over the past century, shaped by changing tastes, technologies, and regulations. In the 1970s and 80s, barrel proof options were limited due to higher taxes on high-proof spirits. Bourbon trends have ebbed and flowed, with favorites like maple finishes and honey cask maturation rising and falling in popularity. As innovation marches on, questions remain about what's next. Ryan, Fred, and myself discuss the nuanced offerings like cigar blends and amburana barrel-aged bourbons and if they will be fleeting fads or establish themselves as mainstays and if rye whiskeys and light whiskies already peaked in popularity. While some trends fade fast, broader consumer excitement for bourbons finished in unique barrels suggests the underlying whiskey geek curiosity for new flavors won't disappear anytime soon. However, core classic bourbon may regain flourish with consumers. With so many aging experiments underway, it's impossible to predict exactly how tastes will evolve. But one thing is clear - the bourbon landscape will continue its dynamic change. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the same bottle of bourbon tasting different. Why wasn't there barrel proof options in the 70's and 80s? Was bourbon taxed differently in the past? Were there bourbon trends back in the 40s and 50s? What does the lifecycle look like for finished whiskeys? Will the honey cask finish trend continue? Will whiskey geeks go back to drinking normal bourbon or is the everyday bourbon dead? When do trends become mainstays? What will happen to cigar blends? Will Amburana barrels experience a quick death? Will maple finish continue to be used? Will American Single Malt have a long life? Have we seen the end of light whiskey? Has rye whiskey peaked? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Wilderness Trail 8 Year Wheated Bourbon. This 8 year old finished bourbon is 100 proof and $89 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for September 8th 2023. A $1M bottle of bourbon goes up for auction, Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company has announced a multi-million-dollar distillery, and Pursuit Spirits unleashes batch 8CD.Show Notes: Wenzel Whiskey joins the The Kentucky Distillers’ Association A $1M bottle of bourbon goes up for auction from Frigg N’ Digg N’ Antiques in Bowling Green Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company has announced a multi-million-dollar distillery project Holy City Brewing and Lewis Barbecue are partnering up to host the first annual MashFest Exposing counterfeit techniques using Top Swaps Filmland Spirits announces Town at the End of Tomorrow and Ryes of the Robots Extended Cut Barrell Craft Spirits launches a gift box containing 100ml samples of its core Barrell products Pursuit Spirits releases batch 8CD @wenzel_whiskey @lawrenceburgbourbon @holycitybrewing @filmlandspirits @barrellbourbon @pursuitspirits Support this podcast on Patreon

At some point you will find yourself going to a bourbon festival. And rightly you should. It's where people like us gather to try new things and meet a like-minded community. On today's show, I've invited Diane Strong of Bourbon on the Banks and Drew Chostner of the St. Louis Bourbon Festival to come on the show to talk about throwing a bourbon festival that isn't always the same. The goal is to make this a truly engaging event for bourbon lovers by bringing together an exciting mix of upstart distilleries and big brands for tastings. We talk about including educational seminars and the overall format. But then we dive into the nitty gritty of things like city permitting, access to water, and how to calculate ticket prices for attendees. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about operations after a master distiller leaves. What was your bourbon journey like? Was the reason for the festival to cash flow other projects? What are you trying to do to make your festival different than anything else? What types or permits do you need? Has the ABC ever showed up to one of your events? What approach do you take to get brands to sponsor the festival? Do you see attendees start venturing toward the startups vs the traditional distilleries? How do you make sure the distilleries are engaged with attendees? How do you promote responsibility? Why would you want to include educational seminars? How do you determine ticket prices for attendees? @stlbourbonsociety @bourbononthebanks Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Traverse City Port Barrel Finish Bourbon. This 5 year old finished bourbon is 100 proof and $70 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for September 1st 2023. The Koetter Group and The Spirits Group announce The Blending House, we have all the announcements for Four Roses, Old Forester, Parker's Heritage and more, and even a few food collabs that will have you shaking your head. Show Notes: The Koetter Group and The Spirits Group collaborate on The Blending House Algoma Capital launches $100M credit fund for the bourbon business B.H. James Distillers joins the Kentucky Distillers’ Association Survey released about harassment with women in whisky Shaun White and High West collaborate Budget airlines serving top shelf whiskey Old Forester’s Birthday Bourbon Rossville Union Bottled in Bond Straight Rye Whiskey Michter’s Distillery will be releasing its US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish Rye Westward x Ken's Artisan Sourdough Whiskey - 2023 Vintage Blend Blue Run Spirits  announced Trifecta Little Book Chapter 7: "In Retrospect." Wilderness Trail is releasing an 8YR wheated bourbon Four Roses Bourbon announces it will launch its 135th Anniversary Limited Edition Small Batch Good Girls star Matthew Lillard and more launch Find Familiar Spirits Old Dominick will be releasing a series of Small Batch Bourbons Remus Repeal Reserve Series VII Straight Bourbon Whiskey Parker’s Heritage Collection Eggo Waffles and Sugarlands Distilling Co Dunkin’ Donuts is planning to launch a range of alcoholic ‘spiked’ iced teas and coffees KFC and Dead Man’s Fingers release a spiced rum @thekoettergroup @thespiritsgroup @burtonjameswhiskey @beckypaskin @shaunwhite @drinkhighwest @allegiant @oldforester @rossvilleunion @michterswhiskey @westwardwhiskey @kensartisan @bluerunspirits @beamgeneration8 @wildernesstraildistillery @fourrosesbourbon @matthewlillard @olddominick @remusbourbon @eggo_us @sugarlandshine @dunkin @kfc Support this podcast on Patreon

After an impactful career at Brown-Forman, Marianne Eaves was ready for a new challenge which led her to join an exciting startup at Castle & Key. She departed ways with Castle & Key and focused on brand consulting but now her current focus is their new Forbidden release. I invited Marianne to come on the show to talk about her new projects. If you may recall from a previous This Week in Bourbon, we were confused about Forbidden because the press release left many questions unanswered. She takes the hot seat and provides some context and clarity around the name and even the price. We also talk about some malting and other distillation stuff as well because Fred is enamored with it. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about refreshing bourbon cocktails. What have you been up to the past few years? Why would you leave Brown Forman to go to a startup? How has social media influenced who you are? What are the challenges that women face in the industry? How do you maintain confidence through criticism? Why not get away from marketing being female-focused to just being a peer? What blending projects do you currently have going on? Why was the Forbidden press release so confusing? What year did you start distilling at Bardstown Bourbon Company? How did you all come up with the price point since it's so high? What did you do to distill at Bardstown Bourbon Co when there is a whole team there? @mariannebmd @eavesblind @forbiddenbourbon Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Michter's 10 Year Old Single Barrel Bourbon #23A0276 (2023). This 10 year old bourbon is 94.4 proof and $185 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

Subscribe to Behind The Pursuit: From Bourbon to Brand Ryan is back from Redneck Riviera and his mind is burning wondering how or if whiskey brands can break into a lifestyle brand like we’ve seen brands like Yeti, High Noon, Stanley, etc. Is there still a place today for newer brands to break into that, or has Jack Daniels taken the only spot there is? We hit on: How do brands today make people feel? Is Pappy simply a status symbol, or a lifestyle?  Does accessibility of a product come in to play to whether or not a brand could become a lifestyle brand? What pushes the current brands into a lifestyle? Does the effect of premiumization stunt the ability to be a lifestyle brand, or catapult it?  and much more. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at [email protected].

Today's Roundtable will take a deeper look into a trend I've been noticing and trying to figure out why, as influencers and a community, people keep talking about bottom shelf bourbon like it's something special. If you are in this hobby, most of us would give it a C rating and consider anything in the sub $20 or $25 category as average. Why do we keep doing this? Who are we trying to convince to drink these bourbons? The people that listen to this show, pay attention to blogs or YouTube'rs, or take whiskey seriously probably aren't buying $20 bottles and don't drink just average whiskey. I feel it's time to elevate the discussion and kill the bottom shelf promotion. If they aren't average bourbons, then let's figure out why and talk about criteria to be considered average. If it is a game of dollars, then is it a race to the bottom for the big 6 and why should this audience care if it's just average whiskey? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about his parents. Why do we keep promoting bottom shelf bourbons? Who are we trying to convince to drink these bourbons? What makes an average whiskey? Should this audience care if it's just average whiskey? @breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Barrel Proof Rye. This non-age stated rye is 137.3 proof and $65 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for August 18th 2023. Elijah Craig release of its Toasted Barrel finished in European Toasted Oak Barrels. Pernod launches the Mary Dowling Whiskey Company, and Maker’s Mark brings out the double digit age statement with Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged Bourbon.Show Notes: Ukraine’s included Bacardi in the list of “Official sponsors of War” Woodson Bourbon Whiskey announced a partnership with the Las Vegas Raiders and Allegiant Stadium Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery completes its renovation at the Marathon Village whiskey distillery Buffalo Wild Wings is introducing Bulleit Bourbon BBQ sauce Elijah Craig is releases Limited-Edition Toasted Barrel finished in European Toasted Oak Barrels for the 2023 Ryder Cup Graham McTavish has launched a new company called McTavish Spirits Pernod launches the Mary Dowling Whiskey Company WhistlePig FarmStock Beyond Bonded announced a wheat whiskey Jack Daniel’s Twice Barreled Special Release Heritage Barrel Rye The return of Baker’s 13 Year Old Single Barrel Bourbon Wolves announces a limited allocation of Lot Two Garrison Brothers Distillery releases the Laguna Madre 2023 Heaven Hill releases the Spring 2023 edition of Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Maker’s Mark debuts Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged Bourbon Jefferson's releases Jefferson’s Tropics Aged in Humidity @bacardi @woodsonwhiskey @nelsongreenbrier @bwwings @bulleit @elijahcraig @grahammctavish @pernodricard @marydowlingwhiskey @whistlepigwhiskey @jackdaniels_us, @wolveswhiskeyca @garrisonbros @heavenhilldistillery @makersmark @jeffersonsbourbon Support this podcast on Patreon