For the longest time, celebrities have been getting into the spirits industry. It first started off as being a spokesperson and putting a recognizable face to a brand. Now, many celebrities are coming out with their own bottles, and bourbon is no exception. In this episode, we look at many of the celebrity bourbon brands that have emerged over the past few years and analyze them. Does a celebrity care about the quality of the whiskey? Are they just in it for an added revenue stream? Are there any good ones? But we ultimately want to know if celebrities will help bourbon or hurt bourbon. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about his favorite 4th grain used in American Whiskey Do distilleries need a celebrity spokesperson anymore? If a celebrity comes out with a young bourbon does that hurt the category? Are celebrities just getting into it for another revenue stream? Should be skeptical of having a celebrity attached to a bourbon distillery? If a celebrity bourbon brand blows up, will unassuming people think that's what bourbon is supposed to taste like? Is there an example of any celebrity bourbon that is actually really good or high quality? What are the good things that come from having a celebrity whiskey? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review the inaugural release of the Heaven’s Door Decade Series. This 10 year old bourbon is 100 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 December 16th 2022. Pernod Ricard will invest $250 million for a state-of-the-art distillery for Jefferson’s. Willett will invest nearly $93 million for the construction of a new distillery. Booker's Bourbon has released its fourth and final batch of the 2022 collection.Show Notes: An update on BOTLD Buffalo Trace rolled out its 8M barrel on December 15th Pernod Ricard will invest $250 million for a state-of-the-art distillery for Jefferson’s Willett will invest nearly $93 million for the construction of a new distillery A holiday raffle where tickets can be purchased by visiting give270.org All Nations Distillery is the newest member of the KDA DISCUS is granted $1.12M to promote whiskey exports Chattanooga Whiskey introduces BATCH 028: CACAO INFUSED 117 Series: Old Forester Extra Extra Old Booker's Bourbon has released its fourth and final batch of the 2022 collection @botldpa @buffalotracedistillery @jeffersonsbourbon @willettdistillery @give270 @distilledspiritscouncil @chattwhiskey @oldforester @jimbeamofficial Support this podcast on Patreon

Its Bourbon Community Roundtable #75 and in this episode we focus on one major topic and then end the show looking back at this year in bourbon. Last week, the team at Breaking bourbon came out with an article called Does Bourbon Have A Small Brand Problem. It was a fascinating article because it talks about many of the interesting things we see about craft brands. Are people only interested interested in heritage brands? Is there a big knowledge gap? Is this a problem because of the unfair playing field with the three tier system? Are there too many choices or do brands just lack hype? In the last part of the show, I revisit all of our 2022 predictions to see who got it right and who got it wrong. Show Notes: Does bourbon have a small brand problem? Are small brands at an inherit disadvantage? Do brands need a level of hype to survive? Is there a lack of trust or knowledge? What was your 2022 prediction and did you get it right? @breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Jack Daniel’s Distillery Series Tennessee Rye Finished in High Toast Maple Barrels. This non-age stated rye is 101 proof and $42 MSRP for 375ml. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for December 9th 2022. Single Barrel Select moves to a new points-based system. Bardstown Bourbon Company announces it's Origin Series. Pursuit Spirits debuts the Oak Collection.Show Notes: BOTLD is a new way for Pennsylvanians to discover spirits Single Barrel Select moves to a new points based system Brindiamo Group has a new rick house located on the grounds of Log Still Distillery UK Assistant Professor Tyler Barzee has created bourbon shrooms to help with stillage Hayner Distilling announced a new whiskey experience called Whiskey Webcam American Craft Spirits Association (ACSA) and Park Street presented highlights from the 2022 Craft Spirits Data Project Wyoming Whiskey releases a 10 Year Anniversary Edition Straight Bourbon Whiskey Broken Barrel Whiskey Co. has collaborated with Los Angeles Distillery (LAD) on Broken Barrel’s first distillery Collaboration Collection Barrell Craft Spirits has announced Barrell Bourbon New Year 2023 A. Smith Bowman Distillery unveils A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength Bourbon Batch #2 The Macallan has extended its Red Collection with the release of a 77-year-old bottling Vermont distillery WhistlePig Whiskey unveiled its latest limited-edition whiskey: 10-year-old PiggyBank Rye Bardstown Bourbon Company Announces it's Origin Series Pursuit Spirits debuts the Oak Collection @botldpa @buffalotracedistillery @brindiamogroup @logstilldistillery @haynerdistilling @craftspiritsus @wyomingwhiskey @brokenbarrelwhiskey @losangelesdistillery @barrellbourbon @a.@smithbowman @the_macallan @whistlepigwhiskey @bardstownbourbonco @pursuitspirits Support this podcast on Patreon

The idea of owning a liquor store sounds great, doesn't it? It sounds like you get to play around with booze all day and you never have to worry about allocation ever again because you get to keep all the Pappy and Blanton's for yourself. That couldn't be further from the truth. It's a business that relies on margin to keep the doors open. And when those doors are open, you don't really know what can happen next. Tony Konja is the owner of Keg N Bottle. We've talked about Keg N Bottle a few times because that's our partner store for our barrel selections. But the real reason we have Tony on the show is talk about a deeper subject of the retail liquor business and that is theft. No matter what you get into, you have to assume there are terrible humans out there that will take advantage of any situation. Tony gives us an introspective look into how he combats theft from brick and mortar locations as well as online retail and how this business has even had him being held a gun point saying his last prayer. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the end of the bourbon boom Can you share your background and how you got into owning a liquor store? Do you remember about theft at the grocery store? Can you describe the setup in your store with walls of liquor? Is there a magic formula for knowing the amount of theft to account for? What measures do you take to minimize theft? What products typically have a higher theft rate? Have you ever been held at gun point? Is there a bourbon stolen pretty regularly? How do you thwart illegitimate activity with online orders? Is there a reason to keep stores open later than 10pm? Can you talk about how private barrel picks can get stolen in California? How do you deal with customers that say they never received a package from a carrier? @kegnbottleusa Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review The Last Drop Release No. 28. This non-age stated whiskey is 121.4 proof and $4,000 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 2nd 2022. Kentucky Distillers’ Association is seeking proposals to refresh branding assets for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Blue Run Spirits announces its final whiskey release of the year with the Blue Run Winter Solstice Collection. Heaven Hill Distillery announced the 16th edition of the Parker’s Heritage CollectionShow Notes: Bourbon & Benevolence Charity Auction & Bourbon by Kentucky’s Original Black Bourbon Enthusiasts (KOBBE) Kentucky Distillers’ Association is seeking proposals to refresh branding assets for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Still Austin Whiskey Co introduces “The Artist,” a 100% Straight Rye Whiskey from Texas grains Blue Run Spirits announces its final whiskey release of the year with the Blue Run Winter Solstice Collection Heaven Hill Distillery announced the 16th edition of the Parker’s Heritage Collection @502kobbe @kentuckybourbontrail @stillatx @bluerunspirits @heavenhilldistillery Support this podcast on Patreon

Our guest today carved a path that may seem unlikely, but in the end, seems almost fitting. Jason Brauner joined us back on Episode 057 where he talked about building the first bourbon focused restaurant in Louisville, which you all know as Bourbon's Bistro. That concept has stood the test of time and now people from all over flock to his restaurant for dinner and drinks. One particular patron of his is Andrew Wiehebrink of Independant Stave Company, who was on episode 346 talking about stave science. They began talking and came up with some proprietary barrels that will enhance a whiskey based on its original profile whether it was nutty, sweet, or floral. And that's how Buzzard's Roost bourbon was born. You will get to hear more about this journey and their process and how Jason is also moving into a brick and mortar location on West Main Street in the heart of downtown Louisville. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about combining barrels together because of angel's share Give us a refresher about how you got into bourbon When did you start collecting dusties? Do you remember your biggest dusty score? Were you one of the original restaurants that did barrel picks? What was the motivation behind Buzzard's Roost? Do you remember the first phone call when you wanted to start the brand? How did you decide what type of whiskey to use? How many proprietary barrels do you have? How do you categorize the whiskey to go into different finishing barrels? How does your blending process change when you go from 3 to 40 barrels? Are you continuing with MGP or going to work with other distilleries? When is your location in downtown Louisville going to open? Did moving from a restaurant to brand owner feel like a natural progression? What was the origin of the name Buzzard's Roost? @buzzardsroostwhiskey @bourbonsbistro Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review the Michter's Toasted Sour Mash Whiskey 2022 Release. This non-age stated whiskey is 86 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 November 25th 2022. Pursuit Spirits raises $8M for future whiskey purchases. Jack Daniel’s takes a dog toy manufacturer to the Supreme Court. Old Elk Distillery is proud to announce the second annual release of Master Distiller Greg Metze’s Infinity Blend Series.Show Notes: Pursuit Spirits has financed $8 million in future bourbon and rye whiskey barrel purchases American Rye: A Guide to the Nation’s First Spirit by Clay Risen Jack Daniel’s takes a dog toy manufacturer to the Supreme Court Frank August announces two expressions: the first single barrel releases and ‘Case Study’ series Rabbit Hole re-releasing Raceking Founder’s Collection Jack Daniel Distillery introduces Distillery Series selection #10 WhistlePig PiggyBack Legends Series: Brothers Osborne Barrel Hidden Barn Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Series Two Two new Stellum Black specialty blends Old Elk Distillery is proud to announce the second annual release of Master Distiller Greg Metze’s Infinity Blend Series @pursuitspirits @risenc @jackdaniels_us @thefrankaugust @rabbithole @whistlepigwhiskey @brothersosborne @hidden_barn @stellumspirits @oldelkbourbon Support this podcast on Patreon

Sherry, port, honey, sauternes, french, tokaji, toasted, and so much more. The world of cask finishing has exploded. It's what many consider to be the current wave of innovation for today's bourbon market. I mean, is there a bourbon brand that hasn't done a secondary cask finishing yet? However, this world is still a bit like the wild west. Companies are dumping bourbon into casks, there's stave additions, and there are other oak alternatives. So how do you know if your port finished bourbon is actually finished instead of blended? Unless there is a level of transparency, it's really hard to know. That's why Lee Tatum and Cody Ewars of Innerstave are joining the show. They give a history of how Innerstave had traditionally been used in wine for ages and now there is a desire for their products to be used with bourbon. We discuss what makes their oak finishing products different and how they can replicate a process time and time again versus pressing your luck on a barrel that came over from another country on a container ship. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about aging rye vs wheated bourbons Lee, what did you invent as part of the innovation team at Brown Forman? Cody did you see journalism on the decline? What did you mean when you thought that the wine space needed to change? Can you give a background of Innerstave? Can you explain what these oak alternatives are? How would someone go about using your product? How have we not seen bourbon aged on a pirate ship yet? Is this repeatable and consistent vs cask finishing? What does the menu look like for types of oak alternatives? @innerstave Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review the 2022 Old Forester Birthday Bourbon. This 11 year old bourbon is 96 proof and $150 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

It's This Week in Bourbon for November 18th 2022. Redemption loses its lawsuit with Diageo and must change bottles. Sagamore spirit releases their own 5 year bottled in bond. Kentucky Owl and Barrell Bourbon are both releasing $500 bottles Show Notes: Bardstown Bourbon Co will have a new experience in downtown Louisville Pernod Ricard has invested US$22 million to install its first RTD canning line Redemption has been forced to stop bottles after it failed to get Diageo’s injunction order thrown out Nearest Green Distillery has announced that it will add three permanent expressions Sagamore Spirit has released its second annual Sagamore Spirit Bottled in Bond Straight Rye Whiskey Hemingway Rye Whiskey First Edition with the release of the inaugural 972 bottles Blue Run Spirits announces Blue Run Emerald Rye Whiskey Puncher’s Chance announces its oldest whiskey to date with the release of Puncher’s Chance Bourbon: THE LEFT CROSS Stoli Group announces Kentucky Owl Batch #12 and Kentucky Owl Mardi Gras XO Cask Limited Edition Barrell Craft Spirits Announces BCS Gold Label Dovetail @bardstownbourbonco @pernodricard @redemptionwhiskey @diageo @builleit @unclenearest @sagamorespirit @bluerunspirits @puncherschancebourbon @kentuckyowl @barrellbourbon Support this podcast on Patreon

It's Bourbon Community Roundtable #74 and here are the topics we chose for today's show. American Single Malts. The media is a buzz talking about them and traditional heritage distilleries are starting to release some in small numbers. Is this a trend that we need to pay attention to? It's safe to say that over half the bottles on the shelf are sourced product. Has sourcing been embraced finally? Or do people not care and don't know? Every year we will see Wild Turkey pictures flood social media on Thanksgiving. What should you bring to your Thanksgiving get togethers? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about Beam decanters. American Single Malts have their own designation and legal wording. Is this a trend worth watching for us bourbon geeks? It's safe to say that over half the bottles on the shelf are sourced product. Has sourcing been embraced finally? Or do people not care and don't know? Every year we will see Wild Turkey pictures flood social media on Thanksgiving. What should you bring to your Thanksgiving get togethers? @breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Knob Creek 18 Year. This 18 year old bourbon is 100 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 November 11th 2022. Western Kentucky Distilling Co. announced a $30 million Distillery in Beaver Dam, Kentucky. Kroger’s third annual Ultimate Bourbon Auction to End Hunger has started. Heaven Hill Distillery announced the Fall 2022 edition of Old Fitzgerald 19 YR.Show Notes: Wilderness Trail update from Shane Baker Diageo announced it has acquired Balcones Distilling Western Kentucky Distilling Co. announced a $30 million Distillery in Beaver Dam, Kentucky Longbranch teamed up with Walden Retreats to bring a bourbon-centric, luxury ranch-style stay Jack Daniel’s has again been named the most valuable spirits brand in the world New TTB Director Stepping Up on Enforcement Kroger’s third annual Ultimate Bourbon Auction to End Hunger has started Teamsters Local 651 is leading the effort to organize Woodford Reserve IRS and the TTB raided the offices of Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits in California Castle & Key announces The Untold Story of Kentucky Whiskey, Chapter 2 in partnership with The Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild Broken Barrel Whiskey Co introduces Americana Jack Daniel’s Twice Barreled Special Release American Single Malt Finished in Oloroso Sherry Casks Dixon Dedman releases 2XO The Phoenix Blend Maker's Mark introduces Wood Finishing Series – the City Series Heaven Hill Distillery announced the Fall 2022 edition of Old Fitzgerald 19 YR @wildernesstraildistillery @balconesdistilling @longbranchbourbon @officiallymcconaughey @jackdaniels_us @krogerco @krogerchrispicks @sgwinespirits @castleandkey @_kbbg_ @brokenbarrelwhiskey @dixon_dedman @2xowhiskey @makersmark @heavenhilldistillery Support this podcast on Patreon

Our typical guests range from Master Distillers to other industry experts and pundits, but on the rare occasion I find a guest that breaks our norm and gives another view into the world of bourbon. Andy Baxter and Kyle Jahnke make up the folk music duo Penny & Sparrow. Their original appearance on the show was on Episode 228 where we got to know the guys and their love of bourbon. This time I caught them on their post-pandemic tour through Louisville and had them do their first ever Pursuit Series barrel selection. We talk about lyrical inspiration and video games and I lead them through five whiskey samples as they narrow down their choice. Without giving too much of it away, if you are interested in a bottle from this selection it's available on Seelbachs.com for a limited time until it's sold out. It is a single barrel after all! Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about why bourbon is called bourbon How did your project go with Oak and Eden? Do you get a good mix of bourbon and rye in the green room before a show? Talk about Need You on your latest album Do you record a riff or write down a lyric and then find a match between the two? Why did you choose to use claymation for your Cheyenne music video? Did you take the pandemic as a time to reconnect with music or decompress? How does video game soundtracks inspire you? What's the best video game console ever created? How do you narrow down a barrel selection? @pennyandsparrow Support this podcast on Patreon

On this special edition of Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review the 2022 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. The collection includes: Sazerac Rye 18 Year, Eagle Rare 17 Year, Thomas H. Handy, William Larue Weller, and George T. Stagg. Each bottle has a suggested retail price of $99. 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 4th 2022. Campari Group has agreed to acquire a 70% stake in Kentucky-based Wilderness Trail Distillery for $420 million. Old Forester and King Ranch are releasing a limited-edition whisky called Old Forester King Ranch Edition. Lux Row Distillers announced the newest variant in the Ezra Brooks brand family: Old Ezra 7-Year Straight Rye Whiskey.Show Notes: Campari Group has agreed to acquire a 70% stake in Kentucky-based Wilderness Trail Distillery for US$420 million Jane Bowie and Denny Potter are announcing a new distillery in Washington County, Kentucky Pol Roger Portfolio is acquiring Leiper’s Fork Distillery Old Forester and King Ranch are releasing a limited-edition whisky called Old Forester King Ranch Edition The return of the George Dickel x Leopold Bros Collaboration Blend Log Still Distillery is introducing Monk’s Road Wheated Bourbon Wyoming Whiskey announces this year’s annual and limited release offerings of Barrel Strength Bourbon, Outryder Straight American Whiskey and Single Barrel Angel's Envy is releasing their annual cask strength edition Booker’s Bourbon Releases Third Batch of 2022 Collection "Kentucky Tea" HIRSCH Selected Whiskeys announces The Cask Strength Finished in Cognac Barrels Lux Row Distillers announces Old Ezra 7-Year Straight Rye Whiskey @campariofficial @wildernesstraildistillery @lfdistillery @oldforester @kingranchinc @georgedickel @leopoldbros @logstilldistillery @monksroad @wyomingwhiskey @angelsenvy @hirschwhiskey @luxrowdistillers Support this podcast on Patreon

Starting a brand is no easy task. There will be a lot of fails before you ever see your first success and there's a lot to the industry that have to be taken into account from a regulatory aspect, supply chain, sales, and distribution. Mike Paladini and Danny Polise from Penelope Bourbon join the show to talk about how a wild idea to start a whiskey company grew into one of the hottest new brands on the market. They traveled to MGP after reading an article about how that craft whiskey you like is actually from a factory in Indiana. From there it's been a roller coaster of emotions and now they are working on new projects to reach more bourbon enthusiasts. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the aging climate of Texas Can you talk about your wildest high school party that you threw? What started you down the path of drinking bourbon? Are more people in New Jersey finding bourbon and becoming drinkers? What were you doing before Penelope? What made you want to quit your day jobs and pursue a whiskey career? What research did you do for starting a brand and sourcing? Talk about that first day at MGP? Did MGP help you with creating your proprietary blend? Were you trying to maintain consistency or try different blends? How are you figuring out how to scale the business with bottles in 29 states and 4 countries? Are you finding it harder to buy directly from MGP with the explosion? Why go into the light whiskey category? Do you have any finished whiskey horror stories? @penelopebourbon Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C922. This 12 year old bourbon is 124.8 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 October 28th 2022. Master Distiller Lisa Wicker is leaving Widow Jane. The National Association of Wine Retailers is taking another shipping case to the Supreme Court. The details have finally been released for this year's Buffalo Trace Antique CollectionShow Notes: Whiskey Thief Distilling Co joins The Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour B. H. James Distillers announces the opening date in Adairville, Kentucky The FTC has ordered Drizly to destroy unnecessary data Skrewball's social media posts have violated the DISCUS Code The Bourbon Barrel Taxation Task Force is looking to remove barrel aging taxes Frazier Museum announced Bourbon Limited, an online Bourbon subscription membership service Widow Jane announces that Master Distiller Lisa Wicker will leave the company The National Association of Wine Retailers is taking another shipping case to the Supreme Court Jackson Purchase Distillery will increase its distilling operation investment nearly $26 million Kings of Leon has partnered with Willett to launch Kiamichi Whiskey Chattanooga Whiskey releases Experimental Batch 027: Moscatel + Sauternes Barrel Finished Penelope Bourbon announces the limited-release of Valencia The details have finally been released for this year's Buffalo Trace Antique Collection @whiskeythiefdistilling @drizlyinc @skrewballwhiskey @frazierhistorymuseum @widowjane @lbwicker @kingsofleon @willettdistillery @chattwhiskey @penelopebourbon @buffalotracedistillery Support this podcast on Patreon

It's quite apparent that cask finished bourbons are continuing to push the envelope. Every company and producer is utilizing different barrels to create new flavors and new SKUs. We sit down to analyze secondary cask finished bourbons from a legal and producer perspective. Why isn't there legal wording for recharging barrels? What are the various wine types that create better taste profiles? Is finishing a whiskey an excuse for covering up bad barrels? Can brands hide behind a whiskey speciality and do consumers even care? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about today's market growth and the bourbon boom From a judging standpoint, should secondary cask finished bourbons not be in the bourbon category? Do most consumers know Angel's Envy is not a bourbon or do they even care? Is there a label sprawl problem with every brand coming out with different finishes? What are the best types of barrels to finish a bourbon? What are the differences between the types of barrels used for various wine types? Is finishing a whiskey an excuse for covering up bad barrels? What level of risk can you take with finishing whiskey that could turn our terrible? Should there be a definition of recharging a barrel? Does age of the whiskey matter when secondary finishing? Should producers try to disclose the winery where the barrels are sourced? Do you ever get bourbon fatigue and feel like changing things up with a finished whiskey? Are barrel finishes added-value and should charge more per bottle? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Russell’s Reserve Single Rickhouse. This 10 year old bourbon is 112.4 proof and $250 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 21st 2022. Old Forester announced that Melissa Rift has been named Master Taster. New Riff debuts two new malted whiskeys. Blue Run announces  a biannual series of “micro batch” whiskeys.Show Notes: Fred Minnick To Host Blind Bourbon Live In Washington D.C. For The Uso On November 10 Wolverine and Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery unveils the Wolverine 1000 Mile x Old Rip Van Winkle Cap-Toe Batch III boot Old Forester announces Melissa Rift has been named Brand Ambassador/Master Taster Arcane Distilling introduces its second flagship whiskey, Arcane Imperial New Riff debuts the Maltster T50 Crystal Malt Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey and Aroostook Malted Rye Whiskey Michter's 20 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon The Garrison Brothers Cowboy Bourbon 2022 release Alberta Premium announces the Alberta Premium Cask Strength Rye Blue Run Flight Series is a six-whiskey micro batch collection Chicken Cock Whiskey has released Chicken Cock Chanticleer Ross & Squibb releases Remus Gatsby Reserve Old Dominick launches Straight Tennessee Whiskey Wyoming Whiskey announces 1872 9-year-old straight bourbon whiskey Dr Pepper Bourbon Flavored Fansville Reserve Arby's and BrainBrew announce Arby’s Smoked Bourbon @fredminnick @theuso @wolverine @oldforester @newriff @michterswhiskey @garrisonbros @albertadistillers @bluerunspirits @chickencockwhiskey @olddominick @wyomingwhiskey @drpepper @arbys @brainbrewwhiskey Support this podcast on Patreon

It's another month and another Bourbon Community Roundtable and we've got a great list of topics in #73. The first is stickers. I know, it seems like we talk about them all the time but now it's gotten serious. A Louisville bourbon club and liquor store chain was sued by Bob Baffert for almost $70k over a sticker, and yes, they paid up. So now, have we gone too far with stickers? Every year it seems like there are a few acquisitions that happen. Recently, we've seen Heaven Hill acquire Samson & Surrey, Pritzker buy Bardstown Bourbon, and last year MGP purchased LuxCo. These were all strategically different plays. So what do we think makes a good acquisition target in today's market? Following on that last question, those were all very high dollar buys. Is this a trend that we will see continue or is there a chance that smaller brands on the upswing could be gobbled up? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about storing bottles. Bob Baffert sued a Louisville liquor retailer for almost $70k over a sticker. Have we gone too far with stickers? What do we think makes a good acquisition target in today's market? Is there a chance that smaller brands on the upswing could be gobbled up? @breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This 17 year old bourbon is 100 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 October 14th 2022. Evergreen Liquors gets sued $50k over a Bob Baffert sticker. The nation's only bourbon boat tour is expanding. Britain’s first bourbon caller Never Say Die makes its debut.Show Notes: Liquor Store Gets Sued $50k Over Bob Baffert Sticker Brown Forman purchases the Diplomático Rum brand The nations only bourbon boat tour is expanding Black Button Distilling has broken ground on a new US$5 million distillery Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Bourbon Raffle Jack Daniel Distillery introduces the latest expressions in its Distillery Series Brown-Forman has unveiled a Jack Daniel’s American Single Malt Whiskey Company Distilling re-releases its Cask Strength Bourbon Sierra Nevada releases Colonel E.H. Taylor Bourbon Barrel-Aged Bigfoot Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish Britain’s first bourbon called Never Say Die makes its debut @coxs_evergreen_liquors @brownforman @diplomaticorum @blackbuttondistilling @houseofbourbonky @jackdaniels @company_distilling @sierranevada @basilhayden Support this podcast on Patreon

We all have our favorite people and brands we follow on social media. I hope it's Bourbon Pursuit, but there are a lot of people that get categorized as influencers on every platform like Instagram and TikTok but every brand also needs to be on social media. Since alcohol is a heavily regulated product, there are ton of rules in place to keep the industry compliant. And for the most part, many are breaking these rules on a daily basis and could potentially face legal action from government bodies like the FTC. To help get us all more educated on the subject, we're joined by Nichole Shustack who's the Counsel at McDermott Will & Emery law firm. I ask Nichole a bunch of questions about the things I see on social media everyday when it comes to influencers getting free bottles, disclosing brand connections, bourbon charity raffles, and the legal implications that follow. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about wine for the american whiskey drinker How did you get into the legal space with alcohol? Do you scroll through TikTok and say "that's not compliant!"? Are there government regulations involved with social media and alcohol promotion? How are brands breaking the rules of social media promotion without knowing? If a bottle was sent to an influencer, can an influencer or brand get fined from the FTC without disclosing it? Who is going to come after influencers if they don't disclose their relationships or free bottles? What is the maturity level or different social media platforms? Does a whiskey influencer need to be cautious about having children, pets, or Santa Claus in their posts? Is it legal for influencers or companies to give away alcohol as a part of a promotion to gain followers? What are the legal implications for people that hold bourbon charity raffles? @mcdermott_law Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Old Potrero Straight Rye Whiskey. This 6 year old whiskey is 97 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 October 7th 2022. Widow Jane Distillery announces The Vaults 2022. Knob Creek officially announces Knob Creek 18 Year Old. Buffalo Trace Distillery is announcing the upcoming annual release of all six Van Winkle whiskey expressionsShow Notes: Casey Jones Distillery creates a square still to accompany a $1.9M expansion Berlin Packaging acquires Discoglass The Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CABVI) is partnering with Northside Distilling Co. to release Braille Bourbon Whiskey Widow Jane Distillery announces The Vaults 2022 Knob Creek officially announces Knob Creek 18 Year Old Buffalo Trace Distillery announces the upcoming annual release of all six Van Winkle whiskey expressions @caseyjonesdistillery @berlinpackaging @northsidedistillingco @widow_jane @knobcreek @buffalotrace @buffalotracedistillery @jvanwinkle7 Support this podcast on Patreon

We're not in the business of consulting to brands or distilleries, but a few months ago we asked you to submit your questions about brand building to give our honest feedback and advice. In this episode we take questions from entrepreneurs that are looking to start their own brand and what types of spirits to offer based on their location and our thoughts on unconventional grains like oats, buckwheat, and rice. We also analyze labels. How important is it see stuff like "rare", "super premium", "hand crafted", or "non chill filtered" on the label? Lastly, as a brand begins to scale or potentially halts growth when is it the right time to add a new state for distribution? If you want to ask us a question about brand consultation, nothing related to the distillation process because we're not chemical engineers, shoot us a message to [email protected] and we may read your question next time we record a show like this. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) asks about falisfying information about bourbon history From Alen: As a craft distillery, would you recommend to start with a product that is popular on local level or to focus on already established type of spirit? From Alen: I'm also very dedicated to the bottle and label design. I'm planning to have my custom bottle and label that I designed by myself. Is that right way? What is your thought on additional text on a label such as "non-chill filtered", "rare", "hand crafted" and is it distracting? From Nick: What’s your opinion on the potential of whiskies made from unconventional grains such as oat, sorghum, buckwheat, etc? How does a new brand analyze when it's time to add a new state in which to sell? Support this podcast on Patreon

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Rare Hare 1953 Bourbon finished in an XXO Cognac cask. This 17 year old bourbon is 111 proof and $589 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 30th 2022. The number of bourbon barrels in Kentucky reached a record and so have the taxes. Barrell Craft Spirits is releasing their 2022 Gray Label Bourbon. Wild Turkey Master's Keep Unforgotten, the newest release in the annual limited-edition series. Show Notes: CarbonBetter announced the certification of the world’s first carbon-negative bourbon distilled by Fierce Whiskers Distillery Diageo is not renewing its membership with the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States Evan Williams Bourbon Experience will introduce Square 6 High-Rye Rye Whiskey Sotheby’s in London, bidding opened on The Macallan The Reach 81 Years Old single malt The number of Bourbon barrels in Kentucky reached a new record and so have the taxes Chattanooga Whiskey announced the next release of their Bottled in Bond Series: Fall 2018 Vintage FEW Spirits introduces today FEW Rye Whiskey Bottled-In-Bond Uncle Nearest to release first ever rye whiskey High West Releases A Midwinter Night’s Dram Act 10 and Encore Barrell Craft Spirits is releasing their 2022 Gray Label Bourbon Wild Turkey Master's Keep Unforgotten, the newest release in the annual limited-edition series @carbonbetter @fiercewhiskers @diageo @evanwilliamsbourbon @sothebys @themacallan @chattwhiskey @fewspirits @unclenearest @drinkhighwest @barrellbourbon @wildturkey Support this podcast on Patreon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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