It's This Week in Bourbon for August 11th 2023. Molson Coors Beverage Company will acquire Blue Run Spirits, Marussia Beverages acquires Watershed Distillery, and Maker's Mark puts out a 10 year teaser.Show Notes: Molson Coors Beverage Company will acquire Blue Run Spirits Heaven Hill Brands and Log Still Distilling have finalized a mutually agreeable resolution Ross and Squibb Distillery announce enhancements to its barrel programs for 2023 Marussia Beverages acquires Watershed Distillery UK cut the ribbon on the James B Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits Hemingway Whiskey Company announced the debut of its core expression Hemingway Rye Whiskey Signature Edition James B. Beam Distilling Co. is launching the second installment  called Hardin’s Creek Frankfort Widow Jane Distillery is launching Paradigm Rye Still Austin Whiskey Co. announced the release of Cask Strength Rye Whiskey Goose Island has unveiled the 2023 lineup of their annual Bourbon County Stout series Maker's Mark put out a new teaser...Something old is something new @coorswhiskeyco @dcoors @bluerunspirits @heavenhilldistillery @logstilldistillery @watersheddistillery @universityofky @beamdistilling @hemingwaywhiskeys @widowjane @stillatx @gooseisland @makersmark Support this podcast on Patreon

Every once in a while you run across a brand that has captured lightening in a bottle. For me, I see that as Old Carter. Mark and Sherri Carter join the show to talk about their extensive background in the wine industry, but how bourbon eventually captured his interest and became a new passion. Though he knew how to build a highly-rated wine brand, entering the bourbon world brought fresh challenges. Mark and Sherri connected with Dixon Dedman and launched Kentucky Owl until it sold. After the sale, they stayed focused on super premium bourbons to target whiskey aficionados. If a barrel didn't suit their ideal flavor profile, they would put it back in the rick rather than compromise quality. But it's not a complete story without a bit of legal trouble and the Carter name has been no stranger to lawsuits so stick around to hear that one. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about infinity blends You had a big background in wine but when did bourbon come into your life? Did you know how to build a wine brand and what attributes to a 100 point wine? How did you end up getting connected with Dixon Dedman? How do you compete in the wine world? What happens when you have a bad vintage? After Kentucky Owl sold to Stoli, when did you want to start your own brand? Why did you continue going with the super premium route? If a barrel doesn't fit your profile and blend, what do you do with it? What was your marketing approach and how did you capture the whiskey geek? What's your sweet spot for your releases and how you choose your whiskeys? How many times have you been sued with the Carter name? @oldcarterwhiskeyco @oldsherricarter @markcarter52 Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Whiskey JYPSI Legacy Batch 001 The Journey. This non-age stated whiskey is 115 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 August 4th 2023. Heaven Hill fills its 10 millionth barrel, the Charlois Group acquires Kelvin Cooperage, and The House of Suntory announces the launch of Legent Yamazaki Cask Finish Blend.Show Notes: Heaven Hill fills its 10 millionth barrel The Charlois Group acquires Kelvin Cooperage Woodford Reserve and Joshua Kissi release The Spirits of Style Maker's Mark launched a new global brand campaign Make Your Mark Barrels & Billets joins the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Pennyroyal Barrel Company locates a bourbon incubator Lycoming College and Four Birds Distilling Co. are looking to speed up the process of aging bourbon From the TTB - Can individuals produce distilled spirits at home with a small still? Jack Daniel introduces Distillery Series selection #11, a Tennessee Whiskey finished in añejo tequila barrels Barrell Craft Spirits (BCS) launched Barrell Bourbon Batch 035 and Rye Batch 004 The House of Suntory announces the launch of Legent Yamazaki Cask Finish Blend @heavenhilldistillery @groupecharlois @kelvin_cooperage @woodfordreserve @joshuakissi @makersmark @barrelsandbillets @pennyroyalbarrelco @lycomingcollege @fourbirdsdistilling @jackdaniels_us @barrellbourbon @legentbourbon @suntorywhisky @beamsuntory @houseofsuntory_uk Support this podcast on Patreon

You might be wondering if we've hit peak bourbon. Bottles are everywhere and people are flocking to Kentucky in droves trying to get a Napa Valley kind of experience. Sean Higgins joins the show once again to talk about the growth of tourism, and he should know. He started Mint Julep Tours back in 2008 after noticing a gap in tourism offerings surrounding the bourbon trail. At the time, Kentucky was not yet booming in tourism like it is today. Fast forward to 2023, and bourbon tourism has exploded, with Kentucky now being a hot spot and destination as it tops the AirBNB travel charts every week. Sean shares how his business has adapted and grown through the bourbon boom, what the pandemic did for tourism in the state. We also touch on the changing demographic of visitors and innovation he sees within the sector. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about dusty bourbon What was the background of Mint Julep tours? What state is now the highest for visiting the bourbon trail? Have you seen an increase in bachelor and bachelorette parties? Do you see smaller or larger groups trending? What did COVID do to your business? Are we back to pre-COVID tourism numbers or higher? What's the demographic of people coming to visit now? Have you established the relationships at distilleries so spots are reserved? What innovation have you noticed in the tourism sector? Have we even hit mainstream yet for bourbon tourism? @mintjulepexperiences Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Dancing Goat Distillery #003 A Quirky & Humble Blend Whiskey. This 7 year old whiskey is 105.5 proof and $60 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for July 28th 2023. Pursuit Spirits will open new visitor experience located on Whiskey Row, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour welcomes four new distilleries , and Milam & Greene Whiskey is unveiling the third release in the Wildlife Collection.Show Notes: Pursuit Spirits will open new visitor experience located on Whiskey Row The Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour  welcomes four new distilleries TPSA, BAT, WSWT, and TDSA enact new Texas Distillery laws The classic Casio G-Shock 5600 series gets a bourbon look Ross & Squibb Distillery announce Remus Highest Rye Straight Bourbon Whiskey Milam & Greene Whiskey is unveiling the third release in the Wildlife Collection, Rattlesnake Single Barrel Bourbon @pursuitspirits @casio_us @milamandgreenwhiskey @rossandsquibb Support this podcast on Patreon

It's everyone's favorite, Bourbon Community Roundtable, and this is the 83rd edition. This episode gets, we'll say passionate at times because this is tackling the craze of finishes. The first topic is the seemingly abundance of "cigar" blend or batch bourbons. Why is this so attractive? Can't anything be called a cigar blend? I thought the whole point of a good cigar and a good bourbon is because they already naturally pair well. That of course spins into some amburana talk and you know how that ends up. In the second half of the show, I turn my attention to the major distilleries who are putting out finishes as limited or special releases. These distilleries have an abundance of really good bourbon, so why play the game of finished when you can rely on something like a special release with a double digit age statement? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) having a whiskey trust. What does "cigar blend" really mean? Who here likes amburana? Why do the major distilleries release finished bourbon when they have a bunch of really good inventory? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Bluebird Days Whiskey. This 6 1/2 year old whiskey is 86 proof and $50 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for July 21st 2023. Buzzard’s Roost wants you to name their new still, MGP Ingredients will close its GNS distillery in Kansas, and Green River will release its first publicly available Green River Full Proof Single Barrel.Show Notes: Buzzard’s Roost wants you to name their new still Wu-Tang Clan's RZA has partnered with Scotch whisky Ballantine’s Chivas Brothers has made its carbon-reducing technology available to everyone Kentucky Distillers’ Association announced Southern Kentucky Distillery as the newest member MGP Ingredients will close its GNS distillery in Kansas Tennessee Attorney General filed a lawsuit against six online liquor stores accused of illegally selling booze from out-of-state Marvel uses Pappy 23 in it's latest series and fans are chasing after it 291 Colorado Whiskey announces the release of 291 Colorado Whiskey Batch 12 15 STARS expands its whiskey portfolio with the limited release of Platinum expression Lux Row Distillers introduces Lux Row Four Grain Double Single Barrel Bourbon Old Forester announces the newest release in its 117 series – Bottled in Bond Uncle Nearest will begin distribution of its Single Barrel Whiskey and kickoff Single Barrel Showdown: America's Choice Green River Distilling Co. will release Green River Full Proof Single Barrel Log Still Distillery announces the second release of Fifth District Series Heaven's Door announces the addition of “Ascension” Kentucky Straight Bourbon @buzzardsroostwhiskey @wutangclan @rza @ballantines @chivasbrothersscotch @marvel @distillery291 @15starsbourbon @luxrowdistillers @oldforester @unclenearest @greenriverdistilling @logstilldistillery @heavensdoorwhiskey Support this podcast on Patreon

If you've been to Kentucky, then you've probably stopped at one of the many Liquor Barn locations. It's been a cornerstone for bourbon buyers such as myself for many years. But now Liquor Barn has been acquired by GoPuff and we get a chance to sit down with Brad Williams, the Sr Category Manager for American Whiskey of GoPuff Brands, to talk about what it's like to manage American Whiskey brands and barrel picks across geographies for the brand family of Liquor Barn, BevMo, and 400 other regional locations. Needless to say, it's a lot of whiskey math and choosing barrels to go in the right markets. Brad gives us insight into keeping customers excited, what happens when a barrel pick flops, and where he sees buying trends happening. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about preference of small batch over single barrles Why is your title so long and what does it encompass? How did GoPuff start? How did competition in the market make you change strategies? Since GoPuff is across many states, does allocation go across states? How are you able to devote your time to the mass amount of single barrels selected? With your leverage can you make distilleries do special things that no one else can do? What happens when a barrel pick flops? How do you keep customers excited about more barrel picks? Do you try to have the largest bourbon selection across the state? What bourbon buying trends are you seeing? How do you deal with the haters that don't like your barrel picks? What's your criteria on judging whiskey for different markets? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Blackened x Wes Henderson Bourbon Finished in White Port Wine Casks. This 6 year old finished bourbon is 116.2 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 July 14th 2023. Sazerac wins a no contest lawsuit for miniature gift sets of Weller, Evan Williams Bourbon Experience has a new experience called Bourbon Bootcamp, and New Riff Distilling is announcing its Sour Mash Single Malt ProjectShow Notes: Liberty Pole Spirits opens their Whiskey Campus Sazerac wins a no contest lawsuit for miniature gift sets of Weller Jackie Zykan launches Oduoak Evan Williams Bourbon Experience has a new experience called Bourbon Bootcamp Preservation Distillery launches Very Olde St. Nick Immaculata Limestone Branch Distillery announces 2023 release of Yellowstone Limited Edition Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey New Riff Distilling is announcing its Sour Mash Single Malt project @libertypolespirits @jackiezykan @oduoak @evanwilliamsbourbon @preservationdistillery @limestonebranch @yellowstonebourbon @newriff Support this podcast on Patreon

What attracts you to a brand? It's that unexplainable underpinning called Brand Mysticism. I'm joined by author, Aaron Goldfarb and brand icon builder Steve Grasse to talk about this very subject they happened to publish a book on called Brand Mysticism. Steve has a lot of feathers in his cap such as being the brains behind Hendrix gin and Sailor Jerry rum. These aren't typical brands like we see in bourbon but this book is how to brand almost anything. It's a teaser into figuring out how to transform an idea into a brand, evolve an existing brand, and even some of the best lessons to take away in the book. Plus, we even dive into the brand mysticism behind Pappy Van Winkle. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about other spirits to be curious about Give an update to your backgrounds and how you got into spirits How do you transform an idea, such as a tshirt, into a brand? Can you just make up a brand today without a deep story? Do we need celebrities in the alcohol industry? What was the basis of the book? How do you constantly evolve a brand and adapt to lifestyle changes? What are some of those great lessons you've learned from Steve? How does Pappy fall into Brand Mysticism? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Yellowstone American Single Malt Whiskey. This 4 year old whiskey is 108 proof and $55 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for July 7th 2023. 2 Kentucky Peerless Employees Leave to start Eastern Light Distilling, A new partnership between Woodford Reserve and Emirates, and Wild Turkey announces the release of Master’s Keep Voyage. Show Notes: 2 Kentucky Peerless Employees Leave to start Eastern Light Distilling a new partnership between Woodford Reserve and Emirates Speyside Bourbon Cooperage invests $7.5M Social Hour Bourbon Smash made with Dickel Bourbon Wild Turkey announces the release of Master’s Keep Voyage @kentuckypeerless @caleb_kilburn @woodfordreserve @emirates @speysidecooperage @socialhourcocktails @gergedickel @wildturkey @appletonrumuk Support this podcast on Patreon

Back on episode 397 we talked about whiskey being an investment but now we are reevaluating the current landscape and if collectible whiskey, namely bourbon, is on the decline. We consider changes in the bourbon market, including the increased interest from the high net worth community. There is a nostalgia for the past when information about whiskey was more accessible but we recognize that changes are happening. After all, there is the other notion about the legality of selling alcohol without a license and the penalties of investing in whiskey. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about celebrity whiskey Discussion on the decreasing pool of people buying rare bottles Scotch Drinkers Switch to Bourbon Due to High Prices New Buyers in the Bourbon Market High Net Worth Community's Bourbon Value Proposition High-end Whiskeys: Investment Potential and NFTs Selling Rare Bottles and the Investment Game Sean Brock, Bourbon and Bigfoot Bourbon's Future with Newbies and the Economy Pandemic Impact on Bourbon Market and the Glass Case Buying from the Glass Case The Investment Value of Glass Case Bourbons The Future of Whiskey as an Investment The Value of Rare Bottles as an Investment The Future of Rare Bottles as an Investment: Branding and Market Trends Effects of Interest Rates on Banking and Real Estate Industries Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series 2023 BEP Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 110.7 proof and $70 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for June 30th 2023. Premiumization is now losing steam, The Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame will induct eight new people, Booker’s Bourbon is releasing the second batch of the 2023 Collection called Apprentice Batch.Show Notes: Diageo has now severed ties with Sean Diddy Combs Casey Jones Distillery has entered into its first contract as a bourbon producer for B. H. James Distillers The premiumization trend is now losing steam The Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame will induct eight new people Hudson Whiskey introduces New York Straight Bourbon Whiskey 5 Year Old New collaboration between Ireland’s Clonakilty Distillery and Texas’ Garrison Brothers Distillery Booker’s Bourbon is releasing the second batch of the 2023 Collection called Apprentice Batch Whiskey Myers launches Uncle Chicken’s Sippin’ Whiskey Playboy Spirits’ Rare Hare presents Lucky Bastard Still Austin Whiskey Co. launches Bottled in Bond @diageo @caseyjonesdistillery @bhjamesdistillers @garrisonbros @hudsonwhiskey @clonakiltydistillery @whiskeymyers @playboy @stillatx Support this podcast on Patreon

It's another great episode of The Bourbon Community Roundtable and this is the 82nd edition. Over the past few weeks Jack Daniel's has made its case against a dog toy manufacturer all the way to the Supreme Court. There's no better time than the present to have Brian Harra of Sipp'n Corn break it down into what this means for parody law and for anyone else trying to infringe on a trademark. Then we dive in with our first topic with expensive bottles of bourbon. I'm not talking secondary, I'm talking like $500 bottles. The idea came to me when I saw lots of people dismissing the new Daniel Weller release because it's 11 years old and only 4 proof points higher than Weller 12, but Buffalo Trace is putting a price tag that is 900% higher. Does bourbon need $500 bottles? In the second half we look at distillery tasting kits. Four Roses recently announced theirs and people are already getting amped up for it. However, many distilleries have done this in the past and failed. Has the time come when we could see this trend start to take off? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about what distillery could overtake Buffalo Trace's Antique Collection. Talk about the Jack Daniel's case against the dog toy manufacturer. Does bourbon need $500 bottles? Do you think distillery tasting kits will take off? Why have tasting kits failed in the past? @breakingbourbon @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Jefferson's Marian McLain Whiskey. This non-age stated whiskey is 102 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.

It's This Week in Bourbon for June 23rd 2023. A new bill has been introduced that will refund duties and taxes to export bourbon, Four Roses will sell a limited supply of 10 recipe tasting kits, and Heaven's Door releases their next Decade Series.Show Notes: Brown-Forman sells Finladia Vodka to Coca-Cola HBC for $220M and exits Vodka completely. A new bill has been introduced that will refund duties and taxes to export bourbon five new bourbon-centric stops have been added to The B-Line Four roses will sell a limited supply of 10 recipe tasting kits Heaven's Door unveiled its Decade Series Rye release Frey Ranch Distillery announced Frey Ranch Farm Strength Uncut Bourbon @brownforman @_the_b_line_ @cocacola @fourrosesbourbon @heavensdoorwhiskey @freyranchdistillery Support this podcast on Patreon

If you're looking for a bourbon that has been crafted by arguably the best distiller of wheated bourbon and blended by the most respected nose in the industry, then you're looking for Wyoming Whiskey. The story of how Wyoming Whiskey got started is fascinating and that's why I invited David DeFazio, one of the original Co-Founders, to come on the show and share how an idea of starting a winery turned into a distillery that failed on their first release, crawled its way back to greatness. David shares the story of buying a Vendome still but not having a distiller and took Steve Nally, the man responsible for decades of wheated bourbon production at Maker's Mark and now serving as the Master Distiller at Bardstown bourbon Company, out of retirement to be the person who would set them up for amazing whiskey for years to come. But, that's not all, David and his team also got Nancy Fraley to come in and be the person who would take their releases to the next level. Plus, stick around to the end to hear about some rye distillation fun. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about stonefruit What got you into whiskey and how did you carve your path in this industry? What did you want to come away with when you visited the Kentucky Bourbon Festival trying to start this business? What did you think Wyoming could offer to the whiskey landscape? How did you get connected to Steve Nally? When you started did you feel there was going to be a demand for bourbon? Did you tell Steve Nally what kind of bourbon to create? What's the climate like for aging? Where did the relationship with Nancy Fraley start? What was your sales plan? How did you win people back when you failed in your first release? Did Edrington try to make things super luxury after the acquisition? Was there a reason that the backstory and founders haven't been on the forefront of the brand story? @wyomingwhiskey Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review New Riff Yellow Leaming Bourbon. This 5 year old bourbon is 100 proof and $56 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for June 16th 2023. The U.S. Supreme Court sides with Jack Daniel's in the dog toy dispute, a new whiskey documentary is now available called "Fire, Water & Grain: The Story of Empire Rye", and Buffalo Trace launches Daniel Weller, an experimental line exploring different strains of wheat.Show Notes: Ken Lewis of New Riff has announced his upcoming retirement The U.S. Supreme Court sides with Jack Daniel's in the dog toy dispute Virginia law to keep traditional soft drinks separate from crossover beverages on store shelves A new whiskey documentary is now available called "Fire, Water & Grain: The Story of Empire Rye" Research from Yale University suggests that drinking in moderation might be a life-saver Rabbit Hole presents Dareringer Founder’s Collection Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in PX Sherry Casks Heaven Hill announced the launch of Square 6 Wheated Bourbon Buffalo Trace launches Daniel Weller, an experimental line exploring different strains of wheat Fireball Dragon Reserve, limited-edition bourbon barrel-aged whisky from Fireball @newriff @jackdaniels_us @empirerye @thebalasbrothers @rabbithole @heavenhilldistillery @bufalotracedistillery @fireballwhisky Support this podcast on Patreon

What goes hand-in-hand with bourbon? That's law and taxes. Over the past few years we have seen incredible changes to Kentucky's bourbon laws when it comes to vintage spirits, the three-tier system, and the bourbon barrel tax being removed. All of these are done in an effort to make Kentucky's signature industry thrive. There's been one person behind the scenes with all of this, and that is Chad McCoy. Chad is a Former Kentucky State Representative that took care of Bardstown and wanted to see change happen. He dives into how he got into politics and he gives us an idea how many lobbyists there are vying for attention. It's a fantastic episode that covers the political landscape and how it's really hard to make everyone from producers, distributors, and consumers equally happy. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about bottled-in-bond rye. Where did you grow up and how did you get into politics? At what point did bourbon law become more of a focus? How often would you be hit up by lobbyists? How does a lobbyist influence your decisions? Who presented the vintage spirits law bill and what was the motivation behind it? Is a laser code from a prior year considered vintage? Can you talk about the bill that bypassed distributors so distilleries to can sell bottles at a gift shop? Why are trade bodies against NDPs? Why did you want to get rid of the bourbon barrel tax? How can consumers make a change? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Wolves Lot One Single Malt Whiskey. This 7 year old single malt is 110 proof and $290 MSRP (correction). 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 Jue 9th 2023. Virginia liquor officials said they're taking steps to automate the random lottery process, the third annual release of Russell's Reserve 13-Year-Old Bourbon , and the launch of Hardin’s Creek The Kentucky Series, 3 different 17-year-old Bourbons.Show Notes: Virginia liquor officials said they're taking steps to automate the random lottery process Two comedians who named their Scotch whisky after their on-screen characters have won a trademark dispute against Jack Daniel’s Sean "Diddy" Combs sues Diageo Sean 'Diddy' Combs has launched Diddy Direct Barrel Global announces the launch of its new barrel ownership service Independent Stave Company has purchased 8,016 forested acres near Somerset KY Mystic Galactic Bourbon has announced the selection of an orbiter vendor The release of Bib & Tucker Double Char Bourbon Dancing Goat Presents series, “Quirky & Humble.” Bardstown Bourbon Company will soon release Discovery Series #10 That Boutique-y Whisky Company is shining a light on American whiskey in its latest collection Woodford Reserve has released Woodford Reserve Batch Proof Third annual release of Russell's Reserve 13-Year-Old Bourbon Launch of Hardin’s Creek The Kentucky Series, 3 different 17-year-old Bourbons @barrelglobal @independentstavecompany @mysticfarmdistillery @bibandtuckerbourbon @dancinggoatdistillery @bardstownbourbonco @boutiqueywhisky @woodfordreserve @russellsreservebourbon @hardinscreek Support this podcast on Patreon

You hear Ryan and I talk about RTDs or Ready To Drink canned cocktails on This Week in Bourbon all the time and here's the reason why. Most of us got our start into bourbon by mixing it with coke or ginger ale. The modern day drinker is finding their path through cocktails. And now that the seltzer craze has hit, getting your first taste of bourbon through a RTD can be the new gateway. There is one company based in Louisville that has been the go-to company for every drinks company across the country for creating flavored whiskeys, energy drinks, and even RTDs, and that's Flavorman. Brad Nichols and Jordan Plappert from Flavorman join the show as we get a deep-dive into how flavors are developed and how do we begin creating a bourbon-based RTD. It's a fascinating show about conception of ideas, how we can keep sugar volume in check, and how big your pocket book needs to be to get started. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about growing older and your senses. How did you progress into the drinks business? What's the general overview of Flavorman? How do you create or discover new flavors? Where do you start when creating a spirit-based RTD? What does conception look like for a bourbon-based RTD? What difference goes into creating a RTD vs a flavored whiskey? Can explain the difference in the type of can used based on the metal or material? Why are whiskey based RTDs higher in alcohol versus seltzer based? Is malt based cheaper versus spirit based? How do you reduce sugar volume for those that are health conscious? How do you choose a product that is ready to pour in a bottle versus in a can? How do you stabilize an ingredient so it doesn't separate and the shelf life? What can you offer to customers to get products on shelves sooner? What's the initial cost to just start the conversation? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Old Forester Bourbon 117 Series Warehouse H. This non-age stated bourbon is 98 proof and $60 MSRP (375ml). Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

The bourbon industry has this fascinating thing where “The Big Six” can hold such a monopoly of the industry - regardless of price category, and regardless of consumer profile. Is there room for other players to continue to penetrate the market, and how do they break the standard “value” scale that is so often set by Big Bourbon?  We hit on: What draws a consumer to Big Bourbon over a similar cost smaller brand? How does the consumer deal with a value scale that is constantly changing? Do the flavor profiles of smaller brands hit the flavor profiles of the larger brands? and much more. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at [email protected].

Here we are again with another Bourbon Community Roundtable. This one started off pretty tame, but towards the end we start digging deep so here is what's on the menu for this one. A few weeks ago, it was announced that Penelope would be acquired by MGP, but notably its subsidiary Luxco for $215M. We all know this is a great move for the brand, but I posed a question to the group that intrigued me and that is if we will see more MGP brands be purchased as a result? I also follow it up with other powerhouse contract distillers and if we can see them copycat this acquisition in hopes of taking a brand to a new level. That quickly transitioned into the idea that brands can come out of nowhere. One of the most famous, or infamous, brands of all time was Ezra Brooks. A brand that was created out of thin air. Since consumers know more now than they ever have before, could we see another Ezra Brooks emerge in our lifetime? That tends to go into a few different directions but I won't ruin the fun for you. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about if you could only drink one bourbon. Will Penelope's acquisition lead to MGP buying more brands to build their portfolio? Consumers are as smart as ever, so could a phantom brand like Ezra Brooks work today? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Still Austin The Artist Straight Rye Whiskey. This 2 year old rye is 99.6 proof and $50 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for May 26th 2023. Airbnb predicts a busy summer for Louisville as its top trending U.S. destination, Virginia ABC lottery chose multiple BTAC winners and fans aren't happy, and Rabbit Hole’s launches TennielShow Notes: Update on Forbidden that it actually uses Castle & Key barrels RTD cocktails see more stratospheric growth Amazon is launching a way for drinkers to buy alcohol with a simple swipe of their hand Airbnb summer picks Louisville as its top trending U.S. destination Virginia ABC lottery chose multiple BTAC winners and fans aren't happy Ireland will become the world's first country to label alcoholic drinks with comprehensive health warnings Brother’s Bond introduces two new expressions, Brother’s Bond American Blended Rye and Brother’s Bond Cask Strength Steph Curry announced the launch of Gentleman’s Cut Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Rabbit Hole’s launches Tenniel @forbiddenbourbon @airbnb @abc_va @brothersbondbourbon @rabbithole Support this podcast on Patreon

How many distillery tours have you been on? 2? 5? Maybe 20? Well, you can't even touch our guest today. Drew Hannush is the author of multiple books including Experiencing Kentucky Bourbon, Experiencing Irish Whiskey, and new one coming soon on Tennessee. He has his own whiskey podcast called Whiskey Lore but, he has also visited over 250 distilleries across the world. That's a ton of miles traveled. We dig into his passion and why he continues to visit distilleries and even re-visit some. Then we discuss how he doesn't get fatigued because sometimes it's a lot of the same process and story told over and over again. Then we dive into some hidden gems across Kentucky and even talk about the boom of craft distilleries and if he plans on hitting every single one. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about barrel shortage. What got you into the deep-dive of whiskey? How do you not get fatigued listening to a similar story every time? Did you find out where the name bourbon came from? What stands out when visiting Kentucky distilleries? How are some distilleries rewarding drivers versus those who are traveling to try a bunch of whiskey? How are you approaching all the different whiskeys with an open mind? How many brands outside of American Whiskey are sourcing whiskey? What keeps you interested to keep going back and revisiting distilleries? What are the hidden gems that people don't know about? Now that all these craft distilleries are popping up across the US is the goal to hit them all? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Hirsch The Cask Strength Bourbon Finished in Cognac Casks. This 7 year old finished bourbon is 127 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 May 19th 2023. Justins' House of Bourbon has had all charges in Washington DC dropped, Log Still Distillery launches their own single barrel program, and Jim beam enters the American Single Malt Category with Clermont Steep.Show Notes: The Michelin Guide US has named Basil Hayden its official American whiskey partner Justins' House of Bourbon has had all charges in Washington DC dropped Log Still Distillery launches their own single barrel program Frankfort, KY offers bourbon incentives for remote workers to relocate Ezra Brooks 99 Straight Rye Whiskey and a newly reformulated Ezra Brooks Bourbon Cream The Jack Daniel Distillery introduces Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Barrel Proof Rye Whiskey Kentucky Senator Bourbon is set to unveil its fourth release Marianne Eaves introduces Forbidden Jim beam enters the American Single Malt Category with Clermont Steep @basilhayden @houseofbourbonlou @houseofbourbonlex @logstilldistillery @ezrabrooksbourbon @jackdaniels_us @mariannebmd @jimbeamofficial Support this podcast on Patreon

The dream of owning a bourbon bar. That sounds pretty awesome doesn't it? In this episode, we get to hear Watch Hill Proper's journey. Joshua Howes and Tommy Craggs join the show to talk about the initial concept of the bar and the challenges they faced not coming from a restaurant background. We dive into the finer details of the business such as staff training, retainment, and revenue between food and beverage. But for us whiskey geeks, we talk about building a collection of unicorns that are proudly on display but also available by the pour. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about why Maker's Mark doesn't use age statements. How did you get into bourbon and what's your bourbon journey? Did you know what the concept of the bar was going to be before you started? What challenges did you face since you don't come from a restaurant background? How did you come to the design and the feel of the space? What percentage of your revenue is food vs beverage? How did you procure the unicorns in the collection? How do you train the staff on how to be knowledgable on all the whiskeys? What was your business plan and how many drinks you have to sell to keep the doors open? Can you talk about how membership communication backfired? How did the name Watch Hill Proper come to be? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Chicken Cock Double Oak Whiskey. This 8 year old whiskey is 92 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 May 12th 2023. MGP and Luxco will acquire Penelope Bourbon for up to $215M, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof moves to variable age stated releases, and Mark Brown will step down as CEO and president of Sazerac in July.Show Notes: MGP and Luxco will acquire Penelope Bourbon for up to $215M B.R. Distilling Company now offers tours at the distillery Elijah Craig Barrel Proof moves to variable age stated releases Wenzel Whiskey has acquired assets and an inventory of aged spirits from Ghost Coast Distillery Mark Brown will step down as CEO and president of Sazerac in July Scientists Have Discovered the Perfect Amount of Water to Add to Your Whiskey HIRSCH Selected Whiskeys announces The Single Barrel Double Oak Chattanooga Whiskey announced Experimental Batch 031: Red, White and Blue Grist @penelopebourbon @bluenotebourbon @elijahcraig @wenzel_whiskeyhirschwhiskey @chattwhiskey Support this podcast on Patreon

Where did it all go wrong? Or maybe it's not even wrong, but secondary cask finished bourbons seems to all the rage. What used to be a means of innovation has turned into a chase to find the most exotic woods and multi-cask finishes to keep fans asking, what's next? In this episode, Ryan, Fred, and myself dive into the history of cask finishes and question whether double oaked bourbons are still considered pure bourbon. We wonder why don't consumers ask more questions to hold companies responsible about the finishing processes and potential quality drops. Lastly, I drop a bomb about SKU sprawl and what will happen when larger companies create more finishes that will squeeze out shelf space for smaller brands. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about buying dusty bourbon What's your fascination with Liquid Death? Where did cask finishes really begin? How can you trust what a brand does with their whiskey behind the scenes? Why don't consumers question the process? Are double oaked bourbons still considered pure bourbon? Is it the producer or the consumer problem because there is a chase for the next thing? Is barrel finishing the only way to differentiate yourself from other brands? Is the quality going to drop soon because of the distillate being used? What happens when companies with large stocks create more SKUs and take over more shelf space? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Kentucky Owl Bourbon Batch 12. This non-age stated bourbon is 115.8 proof and $400 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 May 5th 2023. New Riff Distilling has announced the dual release of two new heirloom grain bourbons, Buffalo Trace Distillery is thrilled to release Buffalo Trace Experimental Peated Bourbon, and Blue Run Spirits announces its first ever Single Barrel Rye WhiskeyShow Notes: Bardstown Bourbon Co. kicks off their summer patio concert series Diesel Cigars and Rabbit Hole are marking their third collaboration New Riff Distilling has announced the dual release of two new heirloom grain bourbons American Mash & Grain releases Borrowed Page Volume 2 Chattanooga Whiskey releases Founder’s 11th Anniversary Blend Buffalo Trace Distillery releases Buffalo Trace Experimental Peated Bourbon Blue Run Spirits announces its first ever Single Barrel Rye Whiskey @bardstownbourbonco @rabbithole @dieselcigars @newriff @mashngrain @chattwhiskey @buffalotracedistillery @bluerunspirits @thatoneduderyan Support this podcast on Patreon

We've got two juicy topics to tackle so here's what we've got. Last year we saw the release of Russell's Reserve Single Rickhouse limited edition offering. That sparked a Vine Pair article that asked if single rickhouse bottlings will be the next big thing? I wanted to challenge that a bit and figure out if we really think there are varied flavor profiles based on rickhouses or are they cherry-picking barrels to make another marketing angle. In the second half of the show we discuss the current state of single barrels. They are flooded on shelves across the nation and they aren't selling like they used to. How will this get fixed or is this a side-effect of the COVID buying frenzy? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about entry proof. Are single rickhouse bottlings going to be the next big thing? Do different rickhouses provide different flavor profiles or is this a marketing angle? How will we fix the abundance of single barrel offerings on the shelves across the nation? Is this a side effect of the covid buying frenzy? @breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Bernheim Barrel Proof Original Wheat Whiskey Batch A223. This 7-9 year old wheat whiskey is 118.8 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 April 28th 2023. Heaven’s Door Spirits plans to open a new distillery in Pleasureville, Kentucky, Buzzard’s Roost Sipping Whiskeys announces the opening of the Buzzard’s Roost Whiskey Row Experience in downtown Louisville, and Barrell Craft Spirits will add Rye to its already expansive Private Release offerings.Show Notes: Heaven’s Door Spirits plans to open a new distillery in Pleasureville, Kentucky DISCUS backs 2 bills in California and Maine The Mexican navy has seized almost 10 tons of liquid methamphetamine hidden in 11,520 bottles of tequila O.H. Ingram River Aged has doubled its operations and moved to a larger facility in Columbus, KY. Buzzard’s Roost Sipping Whiskeys announces the opening of the Buzzard’s Roost Whiskey Row Experience in downtown Louisville Buffalo Trace releases in its Old Charter Oak collection, Spanish Oak Bourbon Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery has announced the return of the Nelson Brothers Honey Cask Finish Southern Distilling Company launches Hunting Creek Straight Rye Jack Daniel’s commemorates its partnership with McLaren Racing Blood Oath Pact 9 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in Oloroso Sherry casks Barrell Craft Spirits® (BCS) will add Rye to its already expansive Private Release offerings @heavensdoorwhiskey @distilledspiritscouncil @ingramwhiskey @buzzardsroostwhiskey @buffalotracedistillery @nelsonsgreenbrier @southerndistilling @jackdaniels_us @luxrowdistillers @barrellbourbon Support this podcast on Patreon

How much influence does the barrel have on the whiskey you drink? If you talk to a lot of people in the industry you will get a rough estimate of 70% or more flavor gets extracted from the barrel. We've had a few coopers on the show to talk about process, and even today's guest was back on Episode 346. We were so amazed at some of his research we wanted him to come back on the show to talk about more mind blowing stave science. Andrew Wiehebrink is the Director of Spirits Research and Innovation for Independent Stave Company. That means he leads up all the cool advancements on where barrel trends are heading. We talk about the current barrel shortage and if toasted products are the reason to blame, where the future of oak alternatives are heading, and why there is a trend of distilleries moving tog Char 1 vs Char 4. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about warming up your palate. Can you give us a refreshed on how you got into whiskey? How is ISC looking at the current barrel shortage crisis? Is wood growth a problem in getting new barrels? Is there a labor shortage in cooperages? How much has toasted barrels lead to a barrel shortage? Can you explain the seasoning process once again and how that effects the overall flavor? Are you all experimenting with oak alternatives? Why does French Oak have more peaks and valleys for the maturation process? Maker's really pioneered the custom staves but is anyone else doing anything to that level? Why is there a trend of moving towards Char 1 vs Char 4? Does your research show an optimal time of the year to pull barrels? Is there a trend of using smoked barrels? Support this podcast on Patreon

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