Bourbon Pursuit

TWiB: More Barrel Lending Programs, FTC and Southern Wine & Glaziers Go To Court, Fall 2024 Edition of Old Fitzgerald Dec 20, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for December 20th, 2024. More barrel lending programs are becoming available, The Federal Trade Commission and Southern Wine & Glaziers are headed to court, Heaven Hill releases the Fall 2024 edition of Old Fitzgerald.
Show Notes:

Bardstown Bourbon Company and Brindiamo Group launch an exclusive barrel leasing program
Whiskey House and Whiskey Capital partner to provide non-dilutive, barrel-backed financing solutions for whiskey brands
Jim Beam launches the Beam Private Barrel Club
The FTC sues Southern Glazer’s for alleged anticompetitive pricing practices
Balance Distilling Company resurrects the historic Mammoth Cave Bourbon brand
Nordic Bourbon Company introduces direct-to-consumer shipping for American whiskey in Europe
Fred Minnick hosts a top-tier whiskey and music event during Super Bowl week
The TTB officially recognizes the American Single Malt Whiskey category
Old Forester 117 Series Warehouse I
Hidden Barn Series One Slow Fade
Pendleton 1910 Bourbon
Oakley Spirits 20-Year Bourbon
High West & Casa Noble Partnership
Town Branch Single Malt Archive Series
Old Fitzgerald Fall 2024 Release
Woodford Reserve Batch Proof
Chattanooga Whiskey Vault Series Return
Penelope Bourbon Havana
Van Winkle Whiskey Collection 2024
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493 - PursuitPalooza 2024 AMA Part 2 Dec 19, 2024

Here's our follow up from last week's ask me anything episode from PursuitPalooza 2024. This is part 2 that was during a live recording where audience members could ask us anything they want.
Show Notes:

00:00-Introduction to Bourbon Pursuit and AMA
06:26-The Evolution of Bourbon Ingredients
12:30-The Impact of GMO and Organic Practices
17:40-The Role of NDAs in the Bourbon Industry
28:18-Developing Sensory Skills in Tasting Bourbon
33:36-Whiskey and Memory: The Art of Tasting
37:47-The Future of Distilling: Growth and Expansion
42:56-Jiu-Jitsu Journey: Health and Personal Growth
46:59-Market Trends: The Bourbon Boom and Its Sustainability
54:30-Navigating Regulations: The Challenges of Distribution
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Whiskey Quickie: Chattanooga Whiskey Bottled in Bond Fall 2020 Vintage Bourbon Review Dec 17, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review the Chattanooga Whiskey Bottled in Bond Fall 2020 Vintage. This 4 year old bourbon is 100 proof and $53 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.

Behind The Pursuit: Early Goals For 2025 Dec 13, 2024

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In this episode of Behind the Pursuit we reflect on the past year, focusing on both growth and challenges. Kenny and Ryan delve into their goals for 2025, including the opening of our new downtown location, the importance of connecting with consumers, and the strategies for direct-to-consumer sales. The conversation also touches on the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, the challenges of marketing in the spirits industry, and the need for innovative approaches to stand out in a crowded market.

We hit on:

As we wind down 2024, what are some goals you are focusing on for 2025 and beyond?
What are you thinking about doing in the downtown space to help people relate to the brand, and what is the breakdown of focus on Pursuit Spirits vs. Bourbon Pursuit?
What are the pros and cons of focusing on a DTC distribution model? What does scale look like for something like that vs. the existing distribution model?
Where have you found success in terms of marketing and how do you see that changing or staying the same in 2025?
How do you navigate the importance of being involved as much as possible but hands off as much as possible for healthy growth?

and much more.

Be sure to visit pursuitspirits.com and click on Visit Us to book a tasting or barrel selection experience. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at podcast@pursuitspirits.com.

492 - Is This The End of Kentucky Owl? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #101 Dec 12, 2024

For Bourbon Community Roundtable number 101, where we dive deep into the recent news of Stoli and its subsidiary Kentucky Owl filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. This important conversation touches on the implications for the bourbon community, the brand's significant history, and our personal connections to its legacy. The group discusses how Kentucky Owl, once a celebrated brand under Dixon Dedman's careful curation, managed to capture the hearts of bourbon enthusiasts with limited releases that truly stood out. We unpack the challenges leading to Kentucky Owl's current predicament, we examine how Stoli's acquisition strategies may have shifted the brand’s identity. Will Stoli choose to sell the brand as part of its restructuring?

Show Notes:

Kentucky Owl's Bankruptcy: A Reflection
Future of Kentucky Owl: What Lies Ahead?
Closing Thoughts on Kentucky Owl's Journey
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Whiskey Quickie: Angel's Envy Triple Oak Bourbon Review Dec 10, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review the Angel's Envy Triple Oak Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 92 proof and $75 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!
DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

TWiB: KY Owl Files for Bankruptcy, A Bill In Ohio Could Stop Flipping, Elijah Craig Releasing Craig Nog Dec 06, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for December 6th, 2024. Stoli Group and Kentucky Owl file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, signaling shifts in the whiskey landscape. Ohio proposes a bourbon flipping bill, stirring debate among consumers. Hosts Kenny and Ryan share holiday reflections and discuss Jack Daniels’ Barrel Tree Sale for service members. New Riff's bottled in bond is named Whiskey of the Year, while Elijah Craig unveils the festive Craignog cocktail kit. Highlights also include Booker's Bourbon "Jimmy's Batch" honoring industry legends and Bakta Spirits’ Bakta 2005, which raises skepticism with its marketing. Tune in for more bourbon news and discussions next week!
Show Notes:

Ohio Bill Targets Bourbon “Flippers” with Open-Bottle Rule
Jack Daniel’s Barrel Tree Sale Supports Military Families
New Riff Bourbon Wins Whisky Exchange’s 2025 Award
Ken Lewis Elected Kentucky Distillers’ Association Chair
Stoli Group (USA) Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy
Woodford Reserve Debuts Limited-Edition Chocolate Bourbon Bar
McDonald’s Offers Beer in Select International Locations
Watch Hill Whiskey Releases 20-Year Bourbon Batch 02
Blue Run Spirits Releases Ember
Preservation Distillery Launches Wheated Pot Distilled Bourbon
Elijah Craig Introduces “Craig Nog” Eggnog Cocktail Kit
Booker’s Bourbon Honors Jimmy Russell with 2024-04 Batch
BHAKTA Launches Rare 2005 Bourbon at $1000
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491 - PursuitPalooza 2024 AMA Part 1 Dec 05, 2024

You've heard us talk about PursuitPalooza on the show plenty of times because it's the one time a year we invite our Patreon supporters from around the world to join us for a weekend of insider activiteis that are expertly curated by Ryan and myself. This year, we decided to do a live podcast recording at our distillery where audience members could ask us any questions they want. I'm not going to ruin it for you but here's part 1 and part 2 will be next week.
Show Notes:

00:00-Introduction to Bourbon Pursuit and Live Podcast
01:23-Tainted Corks and Whiskey Quality
04:18-First Live Podcast Experience
06:21-Underappreciated Figures in the Bourbon Industry
12:16-The Role of Master Distillers
25:08-Conspiracy Theories in Bourbon
35:06-Innovation in Whiskey Production
35:35-Exploring the Future of Whiskey Malting
42:03-The Changing Landscape of Whiskey Consumption
49:50-Navigating Industry Challenges and Consumer Trends
52:54-Reevaluating Industry Practices and Standards
01:01:38-Reflections on Podcasting and Legacy
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Whiskey Quickie: Blood Oath Pact 10 Bourbon Review Dec 03, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review the Blood Oath Pact 10 Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 98.6 proof and $130 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.

TWiB: Kentucky Auction Confiscated Bourbon, New Riff Winter Whiskey, It's Thanksgiving Nov 29, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for November 29th 2024. Kentucky will start its first online confiscated alcohol auction this week, New Riff Distilling will deck the halls rerelease of its Winter Whiskey, and we talk a bit about Thanksgiving.
Show Notes:

Heritage Distilling Co is aiming to raise $6.75 million through an initial public offering (IPO)
Proper No Twelve is being pulled from shelves in Ireland
The Overholt Chore Coat
Kentucky will start its first online confiscated alcohol auction this week
New Riff Winter Whiskey
Casey Jones Founder’s 10th Anniversary Blend
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490 - The Pioneer of American Single Malt with Miles Munroe of Westward Whiskey Nov 28, 2024

Our single malt journey continues. In this episode we discuss the unique aspects of single malt whiskey, the journey of Westward Whiskey, and the blending process with their Master Blender, Miles Monroe. Monroe shares his background in music and how it influenced his path to whiskey, as well as the importance of fermentation and distillation techniques. In this conversation we discusses the intricate process of crafting whiskey, the importance of flavor profiles, and the evolution of consumer perceptions towards American Single Malt.
Show Notes:

00:00-Introduction to Bourbon Pursuit and Single Malt Whiskey
04:45-Miles Monroe's Journey from Music to Whiskey
10:00-The Founding Story of Westward Whiskey
15:07-The Craft of Single Malt Distillation
19:55-Blending Methodology and Flavor Profiles
26:09-Crafting the Perfect Whiskey Blend
30:19-The Journey of a Master Blender
32:10-Understanding Aging and Flavor Profiles
34:22-Consumer Perception of American Single Malt
38:57-International Reception and Market Expansion
42:40-Future Plans and Visitor Experience
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Whiskey Quickie: Parker’s Heritage Collection 18th Edition (2024) Whiskey Review Nov 26, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review the 2024 Parker’s Heritage Collection. This 14 year old finished whiskey is 107 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.

TWiB: Maker’s Mark's New Master Distiller and Blender, Still Austin KentuckyFU Campaign, Four Roses Single Barrel Collection Nov 22, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for November 22nd 2024. Maker’s Mark appointed a new master distiller and lead blender, Still Austin has a new KentuckyFU campaign, and Four Roses introduces the Single Barrel Collection.
Show Notes:

Black Diamond and Hocking Valley create the first railroad box car barrel storage
Evan Williams announced 15 recipients of the American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund grants
Maker’s Mark appointed a new master distiller and lead blender
Buffalo Trace Bourbon collaboration with Bettinardi Golf
Tariffs on American whiskey exports to Europe could resume in March 2025
Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery has named Brandon O’Daniel as the new head distiller
High Basin Brands has reached an agreement for an asset purchase of Treaty Oak Brewing and Distilling
An Indiana man was sentenced to 48 months in prison and over $100k in fines for killing 3 people with an unregistered still
Still Austin has a new KentuckyFU campaign
Remus Gatsby Reserve 2024 Edition
Elkwood 15-Year Single Barrel Bourbon
Milam & Greene Whiskey Cooper’s Hawk Single Barrel Bourbon
Hidden Barn Bourbon 2024 Madeira finished bourbon
Laws Whiskey House Honey Cask Finished Straight Bourbon Whiskey and Four Grain Bourbon Whiskey finished in a Cognac Foeder
Abraham Bowman Oak Series: American Oak
Michter’s 20 Year
Four Roses introduces the Single Barrel Collection
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489 - The Best Bourbon Gifts for the Holidays Nov 21, 2024

It's that time of the year again and you're wondering what you should get that special bourbon lover in your life. There's a lot of gimmicks and bad gifts out there. As somenone who is the receipent of those gifts, I want to make sure the giver isn't wasting their money. Afterall, it's really hard to return bottom shelf bottles back to the liquor store.
Show Notes:

00:00-Introduction to Bourbon Gifts
03:06-Understanding Bourbon Characteristics
06:02-Choosing the Right Bourbon Bottle
08:54-Avoiding Common Bourbon Gift Mistakes
12:13-Bourbon Trinkets and Memorabilia
15:07-Unique Bourbon Gift Ideas
17:50-Cocktail Kits and Accessories
20:53-Merchandise and Apparel for Bourbon Lovers
24:11-Subscription Services and Monthly Boxes
27:04-Books and Educational Resources on Bourbon
29:53-Final Thoughts on Bourbon Gifting
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Whiskey Quickie: King of Kentucky Bourbon Review Nov 19, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review King of Kentucky Bourbon. This 16 year old bourbon is 130.4 proof and $350 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.

Behind The Pursuit: The Mellwood Legacy Collection Nov 15, 2024

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Building on the history surrounding Mellwood that we dove into on Episode 66, today we are talking about the upcoming Mellwood Legacy Collection release which pays homage to the historic Mellwood Distillery. We recap a bit of the history of the distillery, the creative process behind the new labels, and the unique offerings of the Derby Town and Old Anvil labels. The conversation also touches on the current state of the whiskey market and the opportunities for independent bottlers. While a press release isn't out yet on these, we wanted to give you a peek behind the curtain of what to expect.

We hit on:

An overview of the Mellwood Distillery history and reasoning behind the Mellwood Legacy Collection
The new labels kicking off the Mellwood Legacy Collection
How the blending approached is different from Pursuit United
The estimated launch date of the Mellwood Legacy Collection

and much more.

Be sure to visit pursuitspirits.com and click on Visit Us to book a tasting or barrel selection experience. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at podcast@pursuitspirits.com.

488 - Is MGP in Trouble and Who Has Asinine Prices? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #100 Nov 14, 2024

It's BCR100 and we look at how the last decade of bourbon has changed and what we've learned. Then we discuss the implications of MGP rolling back production. We wrap up the show talking about what producers we feel price accordingly but it quickly changes to those that are pricing aggressively.
Show Notes:

00:00-The Lamb Diet and Bourbon Rituals
01:46-Celebrating 100 Episodes of Bourbon Pursuit
02:56-Whiskey Experimentation: The Debate on Oak Cubes
05:40-Reflections on a Decade of Bourbon
16:08-The Evolution of Bourbon Consumers
28:18-MGP's Market Shift and Future Directions
40:56-Exploring the Unique Distillery Experience
43:11-The Impact of MGP on the Whiskey Industry
46:01-Brand vs. Whiskey: What Drives Consumer Choices?
57:26-Pricing Strategies in the Whiskey Market
01:10:39-Celebrating Community and Connection in Bourbon
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Whiskey Quickie: SirDavis Whisky Review Nov 12, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review SirDavis Whisky. This non-age stated whiskey is 88 proof and $90 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!
DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

TWiB: A Brief History of Alcohol and Election Day, MGP Pulls Back on Distilling, Wyoming Whiskey Queen of the Tetons Nov 08, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for November 8th 2024. A brief history of alcohol and Election Day, MGP pulls back on distilling, and Wyoming Whiskey proudly introduces Queen of the Tetons.
Show Notes:

brief history of alcohol and Election Day
MGP pulls back on distilling
Old Grand-Dad 16 years
Wyoming Whiskey Queen of the Tetons
Stock Exchange Club of Los Angeles
Saints Alley Nobleman
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487 - Making Bartenders Fans of Your Brand with Lindsey Johnson of Camp Runamok Nov 07, 2024

A lot of distributors tell us that brands are built behind the bar. To a degree that is true. These folks are on the front lines making drinks and have to be knowledgeable about what they are creating. Yet, a bartenders job is high stress and they don't get a chance to get immersed in a brand so that's where Camp Runamok comes in. We're joined by Lindsey Johnson who manages this fantasy camp for bartenders. Bartenders from around the country write essays like they are filing a college application to be accepted into a week of events with Camp Runamok. We talk about what benefits there are for both sides when it comes to the campers and the brands who support it.
Show Notes:

00:00-Introduction to Camp Runamuck
06:00-The Evolution of Bartending and Industry Relationships
12:02-The Concept and Growth of Camp Runamuck
18:08-Experiential Learning and Community Building
24:10-Mentorship and the Future of Bartending
28:09-Creating Safe Spaces for Sober Campers
32:07-The Evolution of Drinking Culture Among Gen Z
35:21-Navigating a Career in Bartending
40:40-Supporting Small Craft Brands in the Industry
43:47-The Impact of Camp Run Amok on Bartenders
49:34-Building Community and Connections in Bartending
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Whiskey Quickie: Bardstown Bourbon Company + Blackberry Berry Farm Brewery Review Nov 05, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Bardstown Bourbon Company Collaborative Series with Blackberry Berry Farm Brewery. This 6-14 year old finished bourbon is 107 proof and $160 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.

TWiB: Buffalo Trace Antique Collection for 2024, Rabbit Hole 8 YR Boxergrail Founder’s Collection, Bourbon de Luxe Makes A Return Nov 01, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for November 1st 2024. Buffalo Trace Antique Collection has returned for 2024, Rabbit Hole Distillery releases Boxergrail Founder’s Collection, andd Bourbon de Luxe the famous brand from the 1900s makes it triumphant return.
Show Notes:

Fraser & Thompson launched Uncorked
The Buffalo Trace Antique Collection 2024
B. H. James Distillers celebrates their second Anniversary with 3 releases
Wheel Horse Whiskey Cigar Blend Bourbon
Woodford Reserve annual holiday bourbon bottle.
Rabbit Hole Boxergrail Founder’s Collection
Blue Note Honey Bourbon Cask
Jeptha Creed Red, White & Blue Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Frank August CASE STUDY: 04
Blade and Bow 22-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Rolling Fork Spirits announces Bourbon de Luxe
Josh Howes and Tommy Craggs launch Watch Hill Whiskey Company with 20 year bourbons
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486 - Turning the Wholesale Bourbon Marketplace Online with Rob Arnold of Barrel Hub Oct 31, 2024

If you have followed the progress of this show since the beginning, you can see the evolution of what we talk about. In the beginning it was about brands and Master Distillers, then when we started Pursuit Spirits we were introduced into the world of brokers and the middle layer of people who own barrels without brands. That information has made its way to you and now you know more about the market. But that brokered market is heavily guarded. It's a series of handshakes, phone calls, and emails with excel spreadsheets with prices to see what's available. However, Rob Arnold with Barrel Hub is trying to make access easier for everyone. Rob isn't new to this game. He spent his undergraduate in Texas and is the person responsible for the pecan yeast strain used by TX Whiskey to this day. We talk about his background and how that led to the idea of creating a portal where industry folks can buy and sell barrels on the wholesale market.
Show Notes:

00:00-Introduction to Bourbon Pursuit and Market Evolution
03:10-The Brokered Whiskey Market and Its Challenges
05:56-Rob Arnold's Background and Innovative Ideas
09:07-The Role of Yeast in Whiskey Production
11:53-The Journey of TX Whiskey and Its Unique Identity
15:08-Navigating the Craft Whiskey Landscape
17:53-The Science Behind TX Whiskey's Yeast
21:09-The Impact of Pernod Ricard's Acquisition
30:07-Navigating Challenges During COVID-19
32:23-The Science of Whiskey: Writing and Education
36:00-Innovative Barrel Financing Solutions
40:40-Introducing Barrel Hub: A Marketplace for Whiskey
46:12-Transparency in the Whiskey Market
52:44-Empowering Entrepreneurs in the Whiskey Industry
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Whiskey Quickie: Old Forester The 117 Series Rum Cask Finish Bourbon Review Oct 29, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Old Forester The 117 Series Rum Cask Finish Bourbon. This non-age stated whiskey is 95 proof and $65 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.

TWiB: Binnys Van Winkle 18 YR Sets Auction Record, Old Carter Goes Up For Auction, Baker's Limited High Rye Bourbon Release Oct 25, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 25th 2024. A new record breaking sale happend for a private Van Winkle bottling at auction, Old Carter and all its assets go up for auction, Baker's releases a limited edition high rye bourbon.
Show Notes:

Van Winkle 18 Year Special Reserve Bourbon Binnys Private Barrel Selection Highest Unicorn Auction
Green River Distilling moving to Whiskey Row
Jackson Purchase Distillery will open a new corporate office in Louisville
Old Carter for the entire brand and assets go up for auction
Jim Beam Winter Reserve
Monk's Road Rye Whiskey
Baker’s High-Rye Bourbon
Lost Lantern Fall 2024 Collection
Buzzard’s Roost Kindred Collaboration Bourbon
New Riff Distilling Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey made with biscuit malt
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485 - What's Life Like After A $215M Acquisition with Mike Paladini and Danny Polise of Penelope Bourbon Oct 24, 2024

We talk about Penelope a lot on the show because they are a prime example of how to differentiate yourself in the marketplace from a crowded shelf of bottles. Our first episode with Mike Paladini and Danny Polise was back on epsidoe 382. And now this time we catch up with them again but after they were acquired by MGP for $215M. We talk about life after acquisition and what that means to access to whiskey, the life of the brand, and how their roles have changed from running it all to leaning on a large organiztion with a substantial salesforce.
Show Notes:

00:00-The Journey Begins: From Mattresses to Bourbon
04:54-The Rise of Penelope Bourbon: Challenges and Innovations
09:57-Acquisition Insights: Life After MGP
19:52-Product Development: The Art of Blending and Finishing
30:04-Future Aspirations: Growth and New Innovations
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Whiskey Quickie: Hard Truth Sweet Mash Rye Whiskey Batch #10 Review Oct 22, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Hard Truth Sweet Mash Rye Whiskey Batch #10. This non-age stated whiskey is 120.6 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.

TWiB: Whiskey Wash Relaunches As Shopping Platform, Woodford Reserve 2024 Master’s Collection, Keeneland and Maker’s Mark Greats of the Gate Oct 18, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 18th 2024. The Whiskey Wash relaunches as a price comparison site, Woodford Reserve releases the fall 2024 Master’s Collection release - Madeira Cask Finish, and Keeneland Race Course and Maker’s Mark unveiled Greats of the Gate.
Show Notes:

The Whiskey Wash relaunches as a price comparison site
Log Still Distillery and Against the Grain Brewery return Beetlejuice pop-up
Iron City Distilling brand new 3 Chamber Still
Milam & Greene Whiskey Barn Owl Single Barrel Bourbon
Safai Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Brewzle launched Oak Bowery Bourbon
Woodford Reserve Madeira Cask Finish
Keeneland Race Course and Maker’s Mark unveiled Greats of the Gate
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484 - Are Celebrity Whiskeys Finally Good? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #99 Oct 17, 2024

Has celebrity whiskey turned a new page? In this edition of Bourbon Community Roundtable we start examining the world of celebrity once again. Previously disregarded amongst whiskey geeks, we now see the tide shifting where celevrities are beginning to put out some really great stuff. We discuss what makes a brand stick and how celebrities and can't just splash and dash if they want a long standing product.
Show Notes:

00:00-Introduction to Bourbon Pursuit and Celebrity Whiskeys
12:15-The Rise of Celebrity Whiskeys
21:44-Challenges and Opportunities in Celebrity Whiskey Brands
28:24-Crafting Celebrity Spirits: The Business Models
31:18-Pricing Strategies: Balancing Quality and Accessibility
35:16-The Importance of Authenticity in Celebrity Brands
39:23-Challenges in the Celebrity Spirits Market
42:44-Consumer Perception: The Connection Between Celebrity and Product
46:37-Building a Portfolio: Beyond One Product
50:33-The Future of Celebrity Brands in Bourbon
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Whiskey Quickie: Bomberger's Declaration Bourbon (2024) Review Oct 15, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Bomberger's Declaration Bourbon (2024). This non-age stated whiskey is 108 proof and $120 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!
DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

TWiB: Bardstown Bourbon Finishes Their Expansion, Barrell Craft Spirits 20-Year Toasted Bourbon, The Return of King of Kentucky for 2024 Oct 11, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 11th 2024. Bardstown Bourbon Co finished their latest expansion, Barrell Craft Spirits releases a 20-Year Toasted Single Barrel Bourbon, and the return of King of Knetucky for 2024.
Show Notes:

Alcohol in Space at Whiskey Thief
Bardstown Boutbon Co finished their latest expansion
Pappy Palooza Pass or Play by Give270
Elijah Craig Bourbon Old Fashioned Week
Penelope Bourbon Founders Reserve List
Mint Julep Experiences launched Ireland Whiskey Tours
Vendome Copper & Brass Works has opened a new manufacturing facility
Castle & Key Distillery Cask Strength Wheated Bourbon
Old Potrero’s new California Cellar Series
Town Branch Imperium MMXXIV
High West Midwinter Night’s Dram Act 12
Barrell Craft Spirits 20-Year Toasted Single Barrel Bourbon
Chattanooga Whiskey Bottled in Bond Vintage Series: Fall 2020
Booker’s Batch 2024 03 Master Distillers Batch
Brother’s Bond 7-Year Old Bottled In Bond
Bardstown Bourbon with Blackberry Farm Brewery
Westward Whiskey Milestone Edition No. 2
King of Kentucky 2024
Old Overholt Extra Aged Cask Strength 11YR
Hard Truth Distilling Co French Oak Harvest Rye
Russell’s Reserve Single Rickhouse 2024 Camp Nelson B
@whiskeythiefdistilling @bardstownbourbonco @give270 @elijahcraig @penelopebourbon @castleandkey @barrellbourbon @brothersbond @hardtruthdistilling @russellsreserve
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483 - What is Premium Bourbon? Oct 10, 2024

The term premium has shifted a lot over the years. In regards of whiskey, just a few short years ago, that term was defined as any bottle over $50. I think we can all agree that $50 seems to an entrypoint into the mid-tier these days. In this episode, Fred, Ryan and myself, we talk about what we believe to be premium with how the market and economic conditions can effect the prices of your bottles.
Show Notes:

00:00-The Evolution of Premium Whiskey
05:54-Defining Premium: Price, Age, and Quality
11:59-Market Dynamics: The Role of Distillers and Brands
17:45-Consumer Perception: What Makes Whiskey Premium?
24:05-The Impact of Packaging and Marketing on Premium Status
30:08-Future Trends in the Premium Whiskey Market
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Whiskey Quickie: Wyoming Whiskey Outryder Review Oct 08, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Wyoming Whiskey Outryder (2024). This non-age stated whiskey is 100 proof and $85 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.

Behind The Pursuit: The Easy Button Pt. 2 Oct 04, 2024

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Ryan tackled these questions back on Episode 068, and with the feedback we got from listeners, we wanted to give Kenny an opportunity to chime in as well. Today's question comes from listener Richard C. Richard had a series of questions looming from the recent Bourbon Roundtable Live Q&A during Pursuit Palooza. Kenny & Ryan used to joke that they should have gone the "easy route" to a brand and just bottled MGP instead of doing their own thing. Now, MGP brands are truly everywhere, the bourbon market is undergoing a correction, and bottles are sitting on the shelf for longer.

We hit on:

How do you feel looking back on your original decision to forge a different path? Did you feel you missed out on something by doing that?
Do you feel you are better positioned now for the current market, and for the future, than if you had bottled MGP?
Where do you think you'd be currently if you had gone with MGP instead of creating the Pursuit United brand as we know it?
What would you do differently if you could do it all over again? What would you tell the 2018 versions of Kenny & Ryan?
How do you continue to set the brand up for success with so many other brands continuing to develop around you?

and much more.

Be sure to visit pursuitspirits.com and click on Visit Us to book a tasting or barrel selection experience. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at podcast@pursuitspirits.com.

482 - The Distillery That Kept Waiting with Kyle Merklein of Ben Holladay Oct 03, 2024

Ben Holiday is making some serious waves and it's really great to see a non-kentucky distiller starting to turn some heads. So it felt like it was time to hear more from the brand that has become a new favorite among many. We invited their master distiller, Kyle Merklein to come on the show. We talk about the history of the distillery and their intention on reviving the brand. There's a lot of intentional things they did when it came to marketing that made it appeal to so many and we find out how they were able to wait 6 years until they released their first bourbon.
Show Notes:

00:00-Introduction to Bourbon Pursuit and Ben Holiday Distillery
05:49-The Rise of Non-Kentucky Bourbon
11:56-Kyle Merkline's Journey to Distilling
17:56-The History of Ben Holiday Distillery
24:06-Prohibition and Its Impact on Distilling
29:47-The Distillation Process and Techniques
36:09-The Importance of Aging and Waiting
42:13-Marketing Strategies and Brand Growth
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Whiskey Quickie: Rebel 10 Year Old Single Barrel Bourbon Review Oct 01, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Rebel 10 Year Old Single Barrel Bourbon. 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.

TWiB: Wyoming Whiskey Names A New Master Blender, 2XO Releases the Sneakerhead Blend, Penelope Bourbon's Estate Collection Sep 27, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for September 27th 2024. Wyoming Whiskey has a new Master Blender, 2XO Releases the Sneakerhead Blend and Penelope Bourbon introduces its new Estate Collection
Show Notes:

Chicken Cock Whiskey joins the KDA
Buffalo Trace Distiller for a Day Contest
Brendan Cook is Wyoming Whiskey's new Master Blender
True Story Bourbon and Rye
Town Branch Overproof
2XO The Sneakerhead Blend
Penelope Bourbon Estate Collection
@wyomingwhiskey @buffalotracedistillery @chickencockwhiskey @2xowhiskey @truestorywhiskey @penelopebourbon
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481 - Investing In Bourbon Barrels with Jeremy Kasler and Sara Havens of CaskX Sep 26, 2024

As a listener of Bourbon Pursuit, you already know more than the average bourbon consumer that walks the aisles. We get into tons of different discussions that surround the whiskey industry and you've heard us talk about barrels that aren't owned by distilleries but sit on the books of brokers or middle-men. With the explosion of bourbon over the past few years, the cost to acquire those barrels from brokers has sky rocketed, and whenever there is an opportunity to make money, more people get into the game. Today, there are millions of barrels aging in warehouses that don't belong to brands but are done as investments for anybody willing to take the risk. It's really no different than the stock market and for that reason we have Jeremy Kasler and Sara Havens from Cask X join the show. We talk about the business model and how anyone with the some spare money can put their dollars into barrels of whiskey as an alternative investment. We go through the legal ramifications and the unrealized benefits of being a CaskX customer. We also talk about the current market where we are seeing a decline in prices and if that means all good things come to an end or if the market is still strong and is a good place to think about future investments.
Show Notes:

00:00-Introduction to Bourbon Pursuit and Barrel Investment
07:12-The Role of Whiskey Enthusiasts in Brand Success
12:53-The Evolution of Barrel Brokering and Investment
21:24-Understanding the Risks and Returns of Barrel Investments
30:32-Market Trends and the Future of Bourbon
40:15-Investor Profiles and Distillery Partnerships
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Whiskey Quickie: 15 STARS Three Kings Whiskey Review Sep 24, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review 15 STARS Three Kings Whiskey. This 11 year old whiskey is 107 proof and $180 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.

TWiB: Flaviar Acquires Speakeasy Company, Maker's Mark 2024 Cellar Aged, Jimmy Russell Celebrates his 70th Anniversary Sep 20, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for September 20th 2024. Flaviar has acquired competitor Speakeasy Company, Maker's Mark Releases its 2024 Cellar Aged and Wild Turkey master distiller Jimmy Russell celebrated his 70th anniversary with the company.
Show Notes:

Heaven Hill opens the Five Brothers Bar & Kitchen
Flaviar has acquired competitor Speakeasy Company
Premiership Rugby has signed a new partnership with Buffalo Trace
Tom Beckbe announces a collaboration with Pappy & Company
Brewzle Whiskey Festival in Opelika, taking place on October 12, 2024
Southern Star NFL 30th season with a Special Barrel Release
Dierks Bentley ROW 94
Lux Row Small Batch PX Sherry Cask Finish
Ole Smoky Distillery is teaming up with Jason Kelce
Wyoming Whiskey National Parks No. 4 and Old Faithful Straight Bourbon Whiskies
Milam & Greene Whiskey Unabridged Volume 3
Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Special Release Coy Hill Barrelhouse 8
Hidden Barn Organic Wheated Bourbon Whiskey
Wolves American Single Malt
Cedar Brook Wheated Bourbon
Silverbelly Whiskey limited single barrel
Hard Truth Distilling Co. announced the release of four limited reserve whiskeys
Filmland Spirits QUADRAFORCE
Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged 2024
Jimmy Russell’s 70th Anniversary 8 Year Old Bourbon
@heavenhilldistillery @buffalotracebourbon @tombeckbe @pappyandco @brewzle @dierksbentley @olesmokey @luxrow @milamandgreenewhiskey @makersmark @wildturkey @hidden_barn
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480 - Do Whiskey Festivals Show The Health of Bourbon? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #98 Sep 19, 2024

On this Bourbon Community Roundtable, we discuss the latest that happened at Kentucky Bourbon Festival and how this could resurge and fuel the growth of bourbon.
Show Notes:

00:00-Celebrating Milestones in Bourbon Podcasting
01:02-The State of Bourbon Festivals and Industry Health
04:56-Reflections on Regrets in Bourbon and Career Choices
09:59-The Excitement of Bourbon Community Roundtable
19:57-The Role of Festivals in Bourbon Culture
30:06-Consumer Engagement and the Future of Bourbon Festivals
39:45-The Health of the Bourbon Category and Market Trends
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Whiskey Quickie: Woodinville 8 Year Bourbon Review Sep 17, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Woodinville 8 Year Bourbon Bourbon. This 8 year old bourbon is 100 proof and $140 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!
DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

Behind The Pursuit: The Easy Button Sep 13, 2024

Subscribe to Behind The Pursuit: From Bourbon to Brand

Today's question comes from listener Richard C. Richard had a series of questions looming from the recent Bourbon Roundtable Live Q&A during Pursuit Palooza, and we thought they'd made for a great episode for Ryan while Kenny was out. Kenny & Ryan used to joke that they should have gone the "easy route" to a brand and just bottled MGP instead of doing their own thing. Now, MGP brands are truly everywhere, the bourbon market is undergoing a correction, and bottles are sitting on the shelf for longer.

We hit on:

How do you feel looking back on your original decision to forge a different path? Did you feel you missed out on something by doing that?
Do you feel you are better positioned now for the current market, and for the future, than if you had bottled MGP?
Where do you think you'd be currently if you had gone with MGP instead of creating the Pursuit United brand as we know it?
What would you do differently if you could do it all over again? What would you tell the 2018 versions of Kenny & Ryan?

and much more.

Be sure to visit pursuitspirits.com and click on Visit Us to book a tasting or barrel selection experience. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at podcast@pursuitspirits.com.

479 - Public Relations: The Not So Hidden Side of Bourbon with Dave Karraker of Raptor PR Sep 12, 2024

One thing I love about what we do in this show is that we continue to explore new and interesting angles of the bourbon world. And one that always gets overlooked is the role of public relations. All major corporations have contracts with PR firms where it's their responsibility to get eyeballs on every new release, get butts in seats at events, and make some kind of commotion about their whiskey. To explore this topic, I've invited Dave Karrakur on the show. He's an industry veteran who has done PR his entire career at places like Sega and Campari but has now ventured off on his own with Raptor Communications. We talk about the stress that PR feels when it comes time to put out a new release, how to get it in front of the right audience and get words in articles like Forbes, and how do you response to a client when something just completely flops.
Show Notes:

00:00-Introduction and the Role of PR in the Bourbon Industry
06:28-Exploring a New Angle: Public Relations in the Bourbon World
10:26-Guest's Background in PR and the Drinks Business
18:55-The Need for PR and Creating a Compelling Narrative
25:25-Navigating the Changing Media Landscape
31:39-Rising Above the Clutter: Detail and Engagement
32:35-Building Whiskey Brands through PR
34:02-Measuring the Impact of PR
35:00-The Value of Third-Party Endorsements
37:16-Building Relationships with Journalists and Influencers
39:32-Navigating Social Media Platforms for Whiskey Marketing
44:11-Distribution Challenges and On-Shelf Presence
46:04-Strategies for Sending Samples to Reviewers
48:55-Maintaining a Cadence of PR Activities
50:17-Dealing with Negative Reviews
55:03-The Complex and Stressful Nature of Whiskey PR
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Whiskey Quickie: Four Roses 2024 Limited Edition Small Batch Bourbon Review Sep 10, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Four Roses 2024 Limited Edition Small Batch Bourbon. This 12-20 year old bourbon is 108.2 proof and $225 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.

TWiB: The Kentucky Castle Will Be A $92.5M Distillery, Bardstown Bourbon Co. Has Two New Releases, Booker’s Bourbon The Reserves Sep 06, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for September 6th 2024. The Kentucky Castle will transform into a new $92.5 million distillery, Bardstown Bourbon Co. has two new releases, and the first innovation coming from Booker’s Bourbon since 2019 – Booker’s Bourbon ‘The Reserves’
Show Notes:

5th Annual Whisk(e)y Festival “Premier Drams” at Jack Rose
The Kentucky Castle will transform into a new $92.5 million distillery
Bardstown Bourbon Co. has two new releases
Proof and Wood BlameCanada
Truth Straight Rye Whiskey from Hard Truth
Booker’s Bourbon ‘The Reserves’.
@jackroseindc @bardstownbourbonco @hardtruthspirits @proofandwood @beamgeneration8
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478 - What Are New Bourbon Drinkers Thinking? with Justin Kingery and Brian Sekelsky Sep 05, 2024

I've been around bourbon as a more than a light bystander for more than a decade. We talk on the show all the time about how we got to know bourbon at a good time but today we get our reality check. I put a message out on a local facebook group in Louisville asking for anyone who has gotten into bourbon in less than a year to send me a message about coming on the show to give us their perspective because I want to know what goes through the mind of today's new bourbon drinker. Brian Sekelsky and Justin Kingery are two new bourbon enthusiasts and we dive into the factors that have influenced their buying habits. We touch on the variety of bourbons available today, including finishes, and the their openness to trying new things instead of chasing what's popular.
Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about
Woodford Double Oak and Blanton's are mentioned as gateway bourbons
Cocktails played a role in their bourbon journey, with the Old Fashioned being a favorite.
Finding rare bottles and sharing their bourbon experiences with others brings excitement and enjoyment.
Personal taste and experimentation are key in the bourbon journey. Intrigue, emotion, and consistency are key factors in the speaker's bourbon collection.
We value the experience and emotional connection with bourbon.
Social media, YouTube channels, and Facebook groups play a role in shaping the intrigue.
We're skeptical about opening expensive bottles and considers price when making purchasing decisions.
Label recognition and bottle design influence the speaker's purchasing decisions.
The variety of bourbons available today, including finishes, offers new and interesting experiences.
We touch on the importance of truth in advertising in the bourbon industry.
Support this podcast on Patreon

Whiskey Quickie: Dancing Goat Distillery: Tommy's Malted Bangdog Blended Bourbon Review Sep 03, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Dancing Goat Distillery Release 005: Tommy's Malted Bangdog Blended Bourbon. This 8 year old whiskey is 109.8 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.

TWiB: Whiskey Thief Plans Location in NuLu, Alaska Allows DTC Shipping for Spirits, 18th Edition of the Parker’s Heritage Collection Aug 30, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for August 30th 2024. Whiskey Thief is opening a new spot in NuLu, Alaska Senate Bill 9 goes into effect which allows direct to consumer shipping, Heaven Hill Distillery announced today the release of the 18th edition of the Parker’s Heritage Collection.

Show Notes:

Mash Maker’s Experience at Casey Jones Distillery
Whiskey Thief Plans Location in NuLu
LF Heritage Distillery Co joins KDA
Alaska Allows DTC Shipping for Spirits
Barrel Global partner with Still Austin Whiskey Co
Pursuit United Double Oaked Rye
Derek Trucks Ass Pocket Whiskey
Cream of Kentucky Two New Releases
Little Book The Infinite Edition 1
18th edition of the Parker’s Heritage Collection
@caseyjonesdistillery @whiskeythiefdistilling @stillatx @pursuitspirits @beamgeneration8
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477 - Creating Viral Bourbon Content with TJ Gamble of Brewzle Aug 29, 2024

In the past two years if you've found yourself scrolling on TikTok or YouTube Shorts, then I'm almost certain you've seen a video by the man that goes by Brewzle. TJ Gamble is the man that goes by Brewzle and he's been a media powerhouse. He's grown his following from just a few thousand subscribers to over a million across all his social channels. He takes a different approach to his videos where it's more about entertainment rather than full blown education. TJ happened to be in Louisville picking some Pursuit United barrels so I invited him to sit down and have a chat about his content and what cheat codes he used to grow a following at such a rapid pace. We discuss how he got into whiskey and the types of content that work well for his fans and how he transitioned from short-form videos to doing more full-length content and trying to start a lawn mower with weller full proof.
Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about
Where did the name Brewzle originate?
What piqued your interest in bourbon?
Can you explain the idea of the lawn mower with Weller?
How did you decide to approach and build your content?
Have you seen more success with a certain type of video?
Do people feel like your hunting videos are staged?
Is your audience looking for hidden gems or stuff from the big 6?
What is your cheat code to amassing your audience?
What's the long term strategy to growing further?
Do you feel Kentucky bourbon has become boring?
Is there a certain price point that people find attractive in your content?
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Whiskey Quickie: BBC Collaborative Series Amrut Barrel Finished Whiskey Review Aug 27, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review BBC Collaborative Series Amrut Barrel Finished Whiskey. This 8-14 year old whiskey is 110 proof and $160 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.

TWiB: American Whiskey Winning In The On-premise, New York Allows DTC Shipping for Spirits, Old Forester Announces Birthday Bourbon Aug 23, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for August 23rd 2024. American whiskey is gaining market share in the US with the on-premise, New York signs into law direct to consumer shipping for spirits, and Old Forester announces birthday bourbon

Show Notes:

UK gets $101.8 revenue boost this thanks to Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour.
CGA’s On Premise Measurement data has revealed that American whiskey is gaining market share
government lawyers appealed the ruling that allowed at-home distilling
New York opens up direct-to-consumer shipping
Evan Williams Bourbon announced a new partnership with Learfield Media
Beyoncé Knowles-Carter has joined forces with Moët Hennessy to create SirDavis
Blood Oath Trilogy – Third Edition
Redemption Sur Lee Straight Rye Whiskey
Uncle Nearest Lost Chapter 1 - 777’
Baker’s Bourbon 13YO
Bardstown Origin High Wheat
Penelope Valencia
Raconteur Rye Brazen
Old Forester Birthday Bourbon
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476 - Which Fall Releases Are Always Good? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #97 Aug 22, 2024

On this roundtable we talk about upcoming fall releases and which ones have always been consistently reliable while others seem to miss.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) asks if Kenny is a steak, what would it be?
What are the fall releases that always hit?
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Whiskey Quickie: Little Book Chapter 8 “Path Not Taken” Whiskey Review Aug 20, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Little Book Chapter 8 “Path Not Taken”. This 4-18 year old whiskey is 118.2 proof and $160 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.

TWiB: KDA Joins The World Spirits Alliance, TikTok Allows Alcohol Advertising, Michter’s US1 Toasted Barrel Finish Bourbon Aug 16, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for August 16th 2024. Kentucky Distillers’ Association has been inducted into the prestigious World Spirits Alliance. Social media giant TikTok has quietly updated its advertising policy to allow alcohol adverts. Michter’s will is bringin back its US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish Bourbon
Show Notes:

Castle & Key Distillery and GiantMouse Knives
Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) has been inducted into the World Spirits Alliance
TikTok has updated its advertising policy to allow alcohol adverts
Remus Repeal Reserve Series VIII Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Milam & Greene Whiskey Roadrunner Single Barrel Bourbon
Chattanooga Whiskey Russian River Pinot Cask Finished
Jack Daniel’s Heroes Selection Single Barrel Barrel Proof Tennessee Rye Whiskey
Blue Note Bourbon Honey Rye Cask
Michter’s US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish Bourbon
@castleandkey @remusbourbon @milamandgreenewhiskey @chattwhiskey @jackdaniels_us @bluenotebourbon @michterswhiskey
Support this podcast on Patreon

475 - Will There Ever Be A Shortage of Dusty Bourbon? with Brad Bonds and Shannon C Smith of Revival Vintage Spirits Aug 15, 2024

One of those indulges that we find ourself in with this bourbon hobby is acquiring a few dusty bottles. And if you've never had a dusty bourbon before, then this episode will wet your appetite for one. There's so many aspects of it but can you imagine building a business off of a non-renewable resource like dusty bourbon? That's what we wanted to know so Brad Bonds and Shannon C Smith of Revival Vintage Spirits join the show. We talk about various aspects of the dusty bourbon market and collecting vintage spirits for sale such as strategies for acquiring dusty bottles, managing inventory and cash flow, vetting buyers, and dealing with potential fakes. We also touch on some legal things but also figuring out what brands stand out in the dusty market.
Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about whiskey going bad with only a small amount remaining.
What led you down the dusty bourbon rabbit hole?
Were you trying to buy and acquire dusty bourbon when you were at Cork 'n bottle?
What was your strategy on acquiring dusty bottles?
Are you scared about your inventory coming to an end?
How do you manage your cash flow?
How do you vet buyers and look for fakes?
Why don't you like to resell Van Winkle?
What has changed with the Kentucky Vintage law?
What is defined as a vintage spirit?
Are Beam decanters are good gateway for those getting started?
How do you choose what to open for the open tasting bar?
What percentage of your revenue is tastings vs full bottle sales?
How do you guide someone in buying a bottle if they have a budget?
What products today do you think will be great vintages tomorrow?
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Whiskey Quickie: Russell's Reserve 15 Year Old Bourbon Review Aug 13, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Russell's Reserve 15 Year Old Bourbon. This 15 year old bourbon is 117.2 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.

TWiB: AB InBev Sells Master of Malt, Bourbon & Banter 30 Days of Bourbon Challenge, Woodinville Whiskey Co. 8 Year OId Bourbon Aug 09, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for August 2nd 2024. AB InBev has sold Master of Malt, Bourbon & Banter will kick off National Bourbon Heritage Month with the 11th annual 30 Days of Bourbon Challenge, and Woodinville Whiskey Co. releases an 8 Year OId Bourbon.
Show Notes:

Mile High Spirits and World View send a barrel into the stratosphere
Bourbon & Banter 30 Days of Bourbon Challenge
AB InBev has sold Master of Malt
Newly revamped Additive Free Alliance, Inc
RD1 Spirits has hired a Research and Development Master Distiller
Town Branch Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
2XO French Oak
Woodinville Whiskey 8 Year OId Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Four Roses Distillery 2024 Limited Edition Small Batch Bourbon
@milehighspiritsdistillery @bourbonbanter @rd1spirits @townbranchbourbon @2xowhiskey @woodinvillewhiskeyco @fourrosesbourbon
Support this podcast on Patreon

474 - Why Don't European Whiskey Drinkers Care About Bourbon? with Henrik Brandt and Linus Jonsson Aug 08, 2024

A few months ago I came across an article on Vinepair that explained even though we are in the midst of a bourbon boom in American with everything feeling a modern day gold rush to collect every new bottle that comes out, it's the complete opposite in europe. Europeans aren't buying the bourbon boom. But why? To help dive into this, I figured we may as well go straight to the source and invite some europeans on the show. Henrik Brandt and Linus Jonsson are from Denmark and Sweden and give us an insight into what the bourbon scene looks like in their part of the world. We discuss the major issues with limited access, minimal marketing, stigma when compared to high age statement scotches, and how importing inflate prices.
Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about abolishing the three tier system.
How did you find bourbon even though you aren't from America?
What was the attraction to bourbon?
How hard has it been to spread the word of bourbon?
Is access the major issue why bourbon isn't proliferating?
Is there a stigma that exists about american whiskey?
Is the price too high when compared to scotch and how have the tariffs impacted it?
Are we ever going to have a culture shift?
Would having a celebrity backing help at all?
Why is blending more accepted?
How is bourbon marketed and how can you get the bottles sold off the shelf?
Support this podcast on Patreon

Whiskey Quickie: Penelope Architect Build 10 Bourbon Review Aug 06, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Penelope Architect Build 10. This non-age stated bourbon is 104 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.

TWiB: Tickets Are Almost Sold Out for KBF, Yellowstone Bourbon Limited Edition, Green River 1885 Aug 02, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for August 2nd 2024. Tickets are almost sold out for Kentucky Bourbon Festival, Yellowstone Bourbon Limited Edition features 7-year and 17-year aged bourbons, and Green River 1885 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey goes after the on-premise.
Show Notes:

Tickets are almost sold out for KBF
Whiskey House of Kentucky gets a $115 million syndicated credit facility
15 STARS Three Kings Fine-Aged Whiskey
Yellowstone Bourbon Limited Edition
Green River 1885 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
@kybourbonfest @ricky_15stars @yellowstonebourbon @greenriverdistillingco
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473 - Moments That Define Modern Bourbon History Aug 01, 2024

Bourbon has a rich history but if you're drinking bourbon right now, you're not doing it because you just found out that a new category like single barrel was created. There are many moments that have now defined modern bourbon culture that have exponentially grown the category in the past 20 years. In this episode, Ryan, Fred, and myself come with a list of moments that we dive into and give our thoughts on what this meant. Some things we hit on are the high-end releases of Willett and the Antique Collection that spur super enthusiasts, how Maker's made national headlines from a proof change, and how social media has changed the landscape forever.
Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the future of Bardstown Bourbon Company.
What did Four Roses do to help build bourbon?
What started the hyper whiskey geek attitude?
What special releases changed the landscape of bourbon?
How did Brown Forman take Woodford and Old Forester and resurrect the brands?
Did the proof debacle from Maker's make a big moment?
When did the bourbon media or message boards start making an impact?
How did secondary markets on facebook boost the category?
Do we feel something like Mad Men was a pivotal moment?
Pappygate took national headlines
How was Marianne being named the first woman master distillery play a role?
What lawsuits defined it?
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Whiskey Quickie: Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Wheated Bourbon Review Jul 30, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Wheated Bourbon. This 6 year old bourbon is 121 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.

TWiB: A Judge Favors Home Distilling, Austriailians Are Labeling Whiskey as Bourbon, Knob Creek Bourbon x Rye Jul 26, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for July 26th 2024. A judge in texas agrees that you should be able to distill at home, Austrailia is under fire for labeling some whiskeys as bourbon, and Knob creek releases a bourbon and rye blend.
Show Notes:

A judge in texas agrees that you should be able to distill at home
Australian distillers are misleading consumers by wrongly labelling products as bourbon or whiskey
Speyside Bourbon Cooperage will invest $16.85 million to build a new stave mill
Larceny announced new packaging
Pernod Ricard establishes North American Distillers
Buffalo Trace Distillery Paris pop-up shop
Extended Stave Warehousing joins KDA
Rebel Bourbon sponsorship with the Premier Lacrosse League
Penelope’s Straight Rye Whiskey Toasted Series
Booker’s The Beam House Batch
Knob Creek Bourbon x Rye
Buzzard’s Roost bottled-in-bond bourbon
Elijah Craig Toasted Rye
Jack Daniel Distillery Series Selection #13
@larcenybourbon @buffalotracedistillery @rebelbourbon @penelopebourbon @knobcreek @buzzardsroostwhiskey @elijahcraig @jackdaniels_us
Support this podcast on Patreon

472 - What Is Bourbon's Next Era? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #96 Jul 25, 2024

On this roundtable we talk about an article published on Breaking Bourbon and talk about the next era of bourbon. Are finishes over? Is wood experimenting coming next? Or are we looking at beyond the big six?
Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the types of glasses he uses to drink
Are we done with finishes?
Are there any left?
What is the next era?
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Whiskey Quickie: Heaven's Door Exploration Series 1 Bourbon Review Jul 23, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Heaven's Door Exploration Series 1. This 5 year old finished bourbon is 108 proof and $80 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!
DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

Behind The Pursuit: The History of Mellwood Jul 19, 2024

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Our Pursuit Spirits Distillery here on Mellwood Ave sits on hallowed ground, being the original site of the Mellwood Distillery, and later, General Distillers Corporation of Kentucky. The Mellwood Distillery has a rich history dating back to 1865, and with the help of several folks in the industry, we've learned a bit about it and it's various ownership changes over the years. It produced brands like Mellwood Whisky, Kentucky Nectar, Derby Town, and Old Rampart, just to name a few. In today's episode, Kenny discusses the architecture, operations, and historical significance of the distillery, highlighting the importance of preserving and sharing bourbon history as we bring whiskey back to Mellwood Ave.

We hit on:

The origin of our site at 1700 Mellwood Ave
Uncovering the history, maps, & research
Mellwood Distillery and it's various labels
Preserving and sharing the bourbon history

and much more.

Be sure to visit pursuitspirits.com and click on Visit Us to book a tasting or barrel selection experience. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at podcast@pursuitspirits.com.

471 - Standing Out In A Crowded Market with Seth Benhaim of Broken Barrel Jul 18, 2024

Starting a whiskey company is no easy task. And making youself stand out from everyone else, it's even harder. There are a handful of companies that supply most of the bourbon we see on the shelves and many of us fall into the trap of buying based off the packaging. However, with this show, we're able to go and find brands who are finding new fans based off their whiskey. Broken Barrel is one of those companies that is forging a new path and finishing their whiskey in such a unique way by rebuilding barrels that we needed to have them on the show. Today we get to talk to Seth Banheim who is the Founder and their Global Brand Manager, Nick Roady about how to stand out in a crowded market. As a brand we have to find new ways to be different and find a way to capture the mindshare of consumers on a whole new level. We also talk about brand education hurdles and how far can you go until you've completely lost a customer. There's a lot to unpack here, especially for those budding whiskey brands who are looking to make a name for themselves.
Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about eliminating toasted barrels for finishing.
What were you doing with a vodka brand and how did it get into whiskey?
Where did you see the opportunity to find new types of staves?
Do you hate making money?
Why was is so important to have a differentiator compared to what has been done already?
How does the conversation change when talking to retailers and distributors on being different?
What did you learn from Ol Smokey and what they did different?
How far can you go before you lose a consumer with brand education?
Is there something to a model like yours that can capture consumers of all levels?
At what point does differentiation go too far?
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Whiskey Quickie: World Whiskey Society 10 Year Straight Bourbon Finished in Port Casks Review Jul 16, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review World Whiskey Society 10 Year Straight Bourbon Finished in Port Casks. This 10 year old bourbon is 102 proof and $165 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.

TWiB: Whiskey House Begins Operations, Hall of Fame To Induct 5 New Members, E. H. Taylor, Jr. Barrel Proof Rye Whiskey Jul 12, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for July 12th 2024. Whiskey House of Kentucky begins operations, Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame will induct 5 new members, and Buffalo Trace Distillery announces Colonel E. H. Taylor, Jr. Barrel Proof Rye Whiskey
Show Notes:

Bespoken Spirits joins The Kentucky Distillers’ Association
Tequila Matchmaker founders raided by Consejo Regulador de Tequila
Consumers are filing lawsuits against spirits influencers
Whiskey House of Kentucky begins operations
Eastern Light Distilling breaks ground
Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame will induct 5 new members
Hidden Barn is releasing a seven-year-old double-barreled bourbon
Colonel E. H. Taylor, Jr. Barrel Proof Rye Whiskey
Old Forester 117 Series: Rum Finish
15 STARS Triple Cask II Fine-Aged Bourbon
Chattanooga Whiskey Bottled in Bond Vintage Series Spring 2020
New Riff Distilling's Headliner special edition
@bespokenspirits @tequilamatch @easternlightdistilling @hidden_barn @oldforester @ricky_15stars @chattwhiskey @newriff
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470 - The Complete History and Mystique Behind Blanton's with Dominic Guglielmi, author of Warehouse H Jul 11, 2024

If you're a liquor store owner, there are 3 words you hate to hear, "Got any Blanton's?". For today's modern whiskey consumer, we know about the iconic bottle shape, the collectible letters, and there's a few different expressions. However, Blanton's played a critical role in the history of bourbon and there are a lot of super rare expressions you will never get a chance to see in your lifetime. To tell this history, Dominic Guglielmi who's the author of Warehouse H comes on the show. He has the one of the most renowned collections of Blanton's on the earth and he even refers to himself as the Ultimate Tater. Beyond just collecting the most coveted bottles around, he has taken the knowledge he learned and the complete history of the brand and put it into a fascinating book that will make you respect it's past and what it has done for the current bourbon landscape.
Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about palletized warehouses.
What's your coming of age tale with Blanton's?
What was your first rare Blanton's bottle?
What's the most limited bottle ever released?
Why was Blanton's created as a product?
Who owns the brand?
Where did the bottle come from?
What releases go into different markets?
Is the demand as strong internationally vs domestically?
Does the price remain at SRP internationally?
What are the secondary prices on the most rare bottles of Blanton's?
What do you think of today's typical Blanton's releases?
Where are the best Blanton's ending up across the world?
What is new Blanton's culture like?
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Whiskey Quickie: Blackened x Rabbit Hole Bourbon Review Jul 09, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Blackened x Rabbit Hole Bourbon Finished in Calvados Casks. This non-age stated whiskey is 106.59 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.

Behind The Pursuit: PursuitPalooza Recap 2024 Jul 05, 2024

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Another PursuitPalooza is in the books! Each year, the guys host a unique and immersive experience here in town for their listeners and fans. The event includes distillery tours, barrel picks, tastings, and social gatherings from relationships they’ve built over the years of running the podcast. This year, the event featured visits to Jim Beam, Four Roses, Copper & Kings, and Preservation distilleries. Participants had the opportunity to taste rare and limited-edition whiskies, learn about the distillation process, and connect with fellow bourbon enthusiasts. The event also included a live Q&A podcast recording during a special single barrel selection of Pursuit United Double Oaked. On today’s episode, we recap it all.

Be sure to visit pursuitspirits.com and click on Visit Us to book a tasting or barrel selection experience. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at podcast@pursuitspirits.com.

469 - How to Value A Whiskey Company and Sell It with Kris Bohm of Distillery Now Consulting Jul 04, 2024

Every year there is a distillery that catches the headlines because they have sold for hundred of millions of dollars. Sounds like a dream for many but to make that dream become a reality, you'll have to know how to value your distillery. For that reason I've invited Kris Bohm on the show. He's the founder of Distillery Now Consulting where he helps folks buy, sell, and install distillery equipment, but he's also found himself in the midst of multiple merger and acquisition conversations. He joins the show to talk about how to value a distillery in the case someone like Diageo or a private equity firm comes knocking. We talk about case sale volumes, the value of aging whiskey in barrels, equipment, brand recognition, and where the trajectory growth curve comes into play.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the rise of AI and being a writer.
What made you want to get into distilling as a teenager?
What's the difference in distilling alcohol vs ethanol?
Why would a client choose pot vs column?
How do you gauge consumer demand and look at sales for calculating value?
What does the pool of buyers look like?
What is the threshold of a case volume to start the discussion?
What's the value in the brand vs the equipment and production?
Beyond physical assets, what other factors play into a valuation?
How are barrels valued?
What's the process for selling a business?
Any value in having current distribution?
What are roadblocks that often kill deals?
Does it matter if case volume happens in the market or at the tasting room?
If you can't afford Vendome, where do your point people?
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Whiskey Quickie: High West Bottled in Bond Rye Whiskey Review Jul 02, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review High West Bottled in Bond Rye Whiskey. This 4 year old rye whiskey 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.

TWiB: Kentucky Bourbon Trail Is Getting A New Look, Justin's House of Bourbon is Back, Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Jun 28, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for June 28th 2024. The world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail tour is getting a bold new look. Justin's House of Bourbon is back with unicorns on the shelf. Heaven Hill Distillery announced today the highly-anticipated launch of Heaven Hill Grain to Glass.
Show Notes:

Kentucky Bourbon Trail tour is getting a bold new look
Four Roses will fix a labeling mistake on Father's Day bottles
Justin's House of Bourbon is back with unicorns on the shelf
Milam & Greene Whiskey has 2 new releases
Rolling Fork The Wheated Cask Wonder
Michter’s Distillery will be releasing its Legacy Series
Remus Babe Ruth Reserve
Old Potrero Toasted Barrel Whiskey
Wyoming Whiskey Independence Rock
Heaven Hill Grain to Glass
@kentuckybourbontrail @fourrosesbourbon @houseofbourbonky @milamandgreenewhiskey @rollingforkrum @michterswhiskey @wyomingwhiskey @heavenhilldistillery
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468 - Updates On KY Tourism and How The Game Has Been Elevated on Bourbon Community Roundtable #95 Jun 27, 2024

On this roundtable we talk about the updates to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail with a rebrand and what updates are happening. We discuss how everyone has to change from the standard distillery tour to something more immersive. Then we wrap up the show talking about our hidden gems when you visit Kentucky.
Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about Evan Williams Single Barrel leaving and coming back.
What has changed with tourism in KY?
What are your favorite hidden gems?
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Whiskey Quickie: Highline Triple Rye Whiskey Review Jun 25, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Highline Triple Rye. This 5-10 year old rye whiskey is 97 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.

TWiB: What's better Kentucky or Tennessee Bourbon?, Penelope Re-releases Rose Cask, Maker's Mark Wood Finishing Series Jun 21, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for June 21st 2024. Hard Truth adds Moonshiner’s Experience, Heaven's Door wants to know what's better Kentucky or Tennessee Bourbon?, Maker's Mark announced the latest in its Wood Finishing Series.
Show Notes:

Hard Truth adds Moonshiner’s Experience
Heaven's Door wants to know what's better Kentucky or Tennessee Bourbon?
Penelope re-releases their Rose cask
Silverbelly Whiskey Batch #4 entitled I'd Love You All Over Again
Russell’s Reserve 15 Year Old
Wyoming Whiskey Outryder Straight American Whiskey
Maker's Mark announced the latest in its Wood Finishing Series
@hardtruthspirits @heavensdoorwhiskey @penelopebourbon @silverbellywhiskey @russellsreservebourbon @wyomningwhiskey @makersmark
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467 - From Gift Shop to GameDay: The Disrupted Journey of RD1 Bourbon with Barry Brinegar Jun 20, 2024

I remember the first time I saw a bottle of WM Tarr. I didn't know much about it except that is was from a company in Lexington and there was well-known football coach supporting the brand. Fast forward a few months and that bottle disappeared from the shelves and was replaced with a new brand called RD1 and it specialized in finished bourbon whiskeys. To help share more of this story, we've invited Barry Brinegar on the show. Barry is a Co-Founder and National Brand Ambassador and gives us the scoop on how their business plan that was only going to focus on gift shop sales got completely disrupted by covid and they had to look at new ways of doing business. We talk about their mission as a company and how they are taking a modern approach to whiskey to find new customers and how a that football coach I talked about landed them a premier placement on ESPN's college football gameday coverage.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about Maker's Mark and the proof change.
How did you get started in the whiskey industry?
How did you get connected with Mark Stoops?
Why release WM Tarr?
How did you adapt when covid shut down your business plan?
What is the goal of how you are trying to be different?
Did your cutover happen overnight and was the plan to switch over already in place?
Why go with a modern brand vs traditional?
How did you land on your core four products?
How involved is Mark Stoops with the brand?
Why have so much transparency when it comes to the wood finishing process?
Why did you use amburana?
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Whiskey Quickie: Puncher's Chance The Unified Belt Whiskey Review Jun 18, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Puncher's Chance The Unified Belt. This non-age stated whiskey 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.

TWiB: Jim Beam Has New Visitor Experiences, Widow Jane Releases Baby Jane, Angel's Envy Cask Strength Bottled in Bond Jun 14, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for June 13th 2024. James B. Beam Distilling Co. announces several new visitor experiences, Widow Jane releases Baby Jane, and Angel's Envy releases a Cask Strength Bottled in Bond non finished bourbon.
Show Notes:

Nancy Fraley talks cigar blend fact checks
Whiskey & Wealth Club absolved of accusations
James B. Beam Distilling Co. announces several new visitor experiences
Widow Jane releases Baby Jane
Blue Run Flight Series II
Old Forester President's Choice
Woodford Reserve Father's Day
Angel's Envy releases a Cask Strength Bottled in Bond non finished bourbon
@nancyfraley @beamdistilling @widowjane @bluerunspirits @oldforester @woodfordreserve @angelsenvy
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466 - What's The Impact Of Stave Seasoning and Char? with Andrew Wiehebrink of Independent Stave Company Jun 13, 2024

The barrel is where the magic happens and it takes years for your whiskey to achieve it's optimal flavor. Most of us are familiar with the standard american white oak barrel with a char 4. Yet, there are hundreds, if not, thousands of combinations that go into creating a barrel from the wood species, stave seasoning, char, toasting and how it ages based on location in a geography or a floor in a warehouse. There's one guy that does all this research and that's Andrew Wiehebrink from Independent Stave. This is his third time on the show and this time he brings different aging experiments for us to taste through. We taste the same whiskey from different levels of a warehouse and even the same american single malt aged in texas and scotland. We also dive into the state of the barrel shortage, our shared distain of amburana, the shift to char 1, and what new innovations are coming from the barrel and oak alternative market.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about will today's bottles be a new dusty.
Talk about what stave seasoning does for the whiskey
Why does Kentucky have more extraction than Texas?
What does elevation from levels on a warehouse do to the aging process?
How often do you revisit experiments?
Does the mashbill make a difference to your experiments?
Would American Single Malt make more sense to use new vs used barrels?
What did the location differences for American Single Malt experiments make?
Has the barrel shortage been resolved?
Do you research the human element and what consumers are looking for in taste?
What do you think of Amburana and exotic wood species?
How are you smoking barrels?
Why is Char 1 creating a darker whiskey and are there diminishing returns?
Does pot vs column still play a role?
Where are oak alternatives heading?
How do you design a barrel correctly for double oaking?
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Whiskey Quickie: Hayner Path of Totality Bourbon Review Jun 11, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Hayner Path of Totality Bourbon. This 10 year old bourbon is 100 proof and $90 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!
DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

TWiB: New Bourbon Auction Record Has Been Set, Chicken Cock's New Home Called Circa 1856, Green River Launches Full Proof Jun 07, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for June 7th 2024. A new record for the highest price bourbon bottle ever sold at auction, Chicken Cock Whiskey has announced the grand opening of its brand home, Circa 1856, and Green River Launches Full Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.
Show Notes:

Breaking Bourbon turns 10
Camp Runamok for 2024
H.K. Young Bourbon Co launch
Peg Leg Porker Spirits blending and bottling facility
Ross and Squibb Distillery announced enhancements to their barrel program
Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) fines 5 retailers for illegal shipping
Diageo vs W.J. Deutsch & Sons is over
Chicken Cock Whiskey has announced Circa 1856
RECORD BREAKING SALE
Curry’s Gentleman’s Cut is releasing a 15-year-old straight bourbon whiskey branded Player Exclusive
Heaven Hill B524 of Elijah Craig and Larceny
Knob Creek 10 Year Old Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
Bear Fight Kentucky Reserve
Frank August partners with Jane Bowie and Denny Potter
Rebel 10-Year Single Barrel Bourbon
Buckner’s 17
Lost Lantern is release nine whiskies
Barrell Bourbon Batch 036
FEW Smashing Pumpkins Bourbon
Green River Full Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon
@breakingbourbon @camp_runamok @h.@k.@youngbourbonco @peglegporker @rossandsquibb @chickencockwhiskey @unicorn_auction @stephencurry30 @heavenhillbrands @elijahcraig @larcenybourbon @knobcreek @bearfightwhiskey @thefrankaugust @rebelbourbon @augustakydistillery @lostlanternwhiskey @barrellbourbon @fewspirits @smashingpumpkins @greenriverdistillingco
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465 - Crafting An Authentic Celebrity Whiskey with Ari Sussman of Whiskey JYPSI Jun 06, 2024

Most of us scoff at celebrity whiskey because let's be honest, most celebrities don't care as much about the product as they do sales. But on a past whiskey quickie we reviewed Whiskey JYPSI and that one changed our mind. It wasn't until we started diving into it that we discovered Ari Sussman. He's a whiskey maker for many brands like Whiskey JYPSI, Three Chord, and Mammoth Distilling, but his history with spirits will fascinate you. He's truly a student of the art where he spent years overseas bartending, discovered vintage cocktail books, and was an integral part of the first ever university distilling program at Michigan State. We talk to Ari about his past and then dive into the Whiskey JYPSI brand and how Eric Church and himself are trying to change the face of celebrity booze.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about finding better bourbon in the Netherlands.
How did you get to this point in your career?
What old school cocktails and liqueurs fascinated you?
Were you trying to use the University of Michigan distilling program to innovate new things?
Can you talk about blending 50ml bottles?
What brands did you help build?
Why would a company want to ghost blend?
How did you get hooked up with Whiskey JYPSI?
Why is this celebrity brand different than others?
How have you added in Canadian whiskey and light whiskey into a blend?
What do you feel is more innovative in world whiskey that's not happening in American whiskey?
Why are you trying to be different in this celebrity world?
Why JYPSI?
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Whiskey Quickie: Town Branch Straight Rye Whiskey Review Jun 04, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Town Branch Straight Rye Whiskey. This non-age stated rye whiskey is 100 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.

Behind The Pursuit: Will People Get Tired of Kentucky Bourbon? May 31, 2024

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Will consumers become tired of Kentucky bourbon? With the rise of non-Kentucky brands gaining recognition for their quality whiskey, Kentucky bourbon still holds a strong position in the market due to its long-established reputation and consumer perception of safety and acceptance.

While Kentucky will likely continue to hold the cache of consumer preferences, today we debate whether consumers will move past the big six Kentucky brands, or Kentucky in general, and latch on or explore other options. We'd love to hear from you on this!

We hit on:

Non-Kentucky brands like Ben Holladay, JT Meleck, Still Austin and Frey Ranch gaining recognition for their quality whiskey.
Kentucky bourbon still holds a strong position in the market due to its long-established reputation and consumer perception of safety and acceptance
Consumers may be hesitant to move past the big six Kentucky brands due to familiarity and brand recognition
The cache of Kentucky will likely continue due to marketing and consumer preferences
Are there Kentucky Bourbons being made that are still riding the 'Kentucky Badge of Honor' that aren't very good?
As a blender, why does Kentucky matter as a point of inclusion if that isn’t a focus of the product (or even on the label)?

and much more.

Be sure to visit pursuitspirits.com and click on Visit Us to book a tasting or barrel selection experience. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at podcast@pursuitspirits.com.

464 - Have We Eclipsed the Bourbon Peak? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #94 May 30, 2024

We're back with Bourbon Community Roundtable #94 and this one takes a single subject but it spins off into another. 2024 has seen the decline in whiskey sales and 2025 forecasts don't look much better. So have we finally eclipsed the peak of bourbon? A few years ago, there was a flourishing secondary market, droves of new people getting into the hobby, more options on the shelf, and massive expansions from all the big player. We've talked about this being a side-effect of the COVID boom but we also saw american whiskey get into more gimmicks and inflated prices. But we all still need the category to grow, so what's it going to take to reinvigorate more people to get into bourbon?

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about documentaries on other spirits.
Have we eclipsed the bourbon peak?
What can be done to make it just as popular again?
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Whiskey Quickie: High Bank Distillery Whiskey War Double Double Review May 28, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review High Bank Distillery Whiskey War Double Double. This 5 year old whiskey is 116 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.

TWiB: Ozempic Investigates Its Effect on Drinking, Woodford Reserve Toasted Bourbon, Beam 20 Year Bardstown Collection May 24, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for May 24th 2024. The maker of Ozempic is investigating its effect on desire to drink alcohol. Woodford Reserve releases Toasted Bourbon, and the oldest Beam bourbon ever bottled will be an astounding 20 years old.
Show Notes:

Howler Head continues as the Official Flavored Whiskey of UFC
The maker of Ozempic is investigating its effect on desire to drink alcohol
US government dietary guidelines may say that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption
Uncle Nearest acquires Square One Organic Spirits
Burton James Uniquely American Whiskey Single Barrel Selection – Wheated Bourbon
Woodford Reserve releases Toasted Bourbon
The oldest Beam bourbon ever bottled will be an astounding 20 years old
@howlerheadwhiskey @ufc @unclenearest @squareoneorganicspirits @burtonjameswhiskey @woodfordreserve @beamdistilling @jimbeamofficial
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463 - Expanding Whiskey Riot Festivals to a City Near You with Bobby Finan May 23, 2024

Many of us make pivots in our career. I had my own where I had really was focused on networking in tech early on but then after I did my first presentation to a room of 500 people, I discovered I really liked it and found a new role in technical marketing. Our guest has a similar story where he wanted to get into distilling, made a successful gin brand then tried to build a whiskey brand, but realized how hard it was and thought, how can I get more people to try our products? And that's how Whiskey Riot was born. Bobby Finan is the Founder and Organizer of Whiskey Riot Festivals across the country and we get into his past of getting into the distilling business and how he took on personal debt to hold his position at his first company and launch Whiskey Riot simultaneously. Now Whiskey Riot is expanding to more cities so if you're looking for a new event to attend, put this one on your list.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about distilleries creating music halls.
Before there was a festival, you had your own brand and forged your way into spirits early on.
When you wanted to start a distillery did you have a business plan?
What was it about your Tommy Rotter gin that really took off?
Why didn't your whiskey business ever take off?
Did you think you could make people come to you instead of going out to stores?
How were you funding Whiskey Riot?
What was your return on investment for a typical event?
How do you evaluate a city for a new festival?
Why would a legacy brand vs a new brand want to go to whiskey fest?
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Whiskey Quickie: Bernheim Barrel Proof Wheat Whiskey Batch A224 Review May 21, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Bernheim Barrel Proof Wheat Whiskey Batch A224. This 7-9 year old whiskey is 125 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.

TWiB: Four Roses Has Two New Bourbon Mash Bills, Ol’ New Riff, Bardstown Bourbon Company Amrut Collaboration May 17, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for May 17th 2024. Four Roses introduces two new bourbon mash bills, New Riff Distilling has announced the dual release of Ol’ New Riff, and Bardstown Bourbon Company’s award-winning Collaborative Series will debut The Amrut Collaborative Series.
Show Notes:

Chet Zoeller passes away at 83 years old
Alex Castle joins Augusta Distillery as Master Distiller
Four Roses introduces two new bourbon mash bills
Oregon Department of Justice wrapped up
Nelson Brothers Honey Cask Finish
Spring 2024 edition of Old Fitzgerald
15 STARS Vino de Naranja
Whiskey JYPSI Legacy Batch 002 The Alchemist
Kentucky Senator Bourbon 5th Release
Michter's 10 Year Kentucky Straight Rye
Weller Millennium
Ol’ New Riff
Milam & Greene Bottled in Bond
Frey Ranch Wheat Whiskey Single Barrel
RD1 Spirits wood-finished bourbon flight
Little Book Chapter 8 Path Not Taken
Oak & Eden Bourbon and Amburana
Bardstown Bourbon Company The Amrut Collaborative Series
@fourrosesbourbon @augusta_distiller @augustakydistillery @nelsonsgreenbrier @heavenhillbrands @whiskeyhypsi @michterswhiskey @kentuckysenatorbourbon @newriff @milamandgreene @freyranchdistillery @rd1spirits @beamgeneration8 @oakandeden @bardstownbourbonco @amrutmalt
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462 - The Unheralded Life of a Dad with Jim Gaffigan of Fathertime Bourbon May 16, 2024

If you can recall your childhood, you probably remember your Dad being there but you may never have appreciated the life lessons you were taught until you got much older. And when you have kids, maybe that's the reason you start drinking bourbon. Both of these are reasons our guest today decided to call his brand Fathertime Bourbon. Jim Gaffigan needs no introduction because we've all laughed at his jokes throughout the years. Family life is a facet of his standup, and food obviously, but Jim loves to say the things we're all thinking and it's what has made him so successful in his comedic career. Jim Gaffigan joins the show to talk about how he made the switch from beer to bourbon and what drew him in to becoming a bourbon connoisseur or as he likes to call it, a professional alcoholic. From there we dive into his new brand of Fathertime Bourbon and what it meant to incorporate generations of his family and his comedic focus into the story and design.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about proofing whiskey and adding water at home.
Can you recall a good college story with Stu Pollard?
What made you want to go down the path of being a professional alcoholic?
Did you find any correlation between picking barrels and your comedic routines?
Did you have the natural progression from mixing to neat?
Did you try and buy the rarest stuff right away or look for everyday items?
How is bourbon perceived in your circles?
Were there anything obvious or strange about bourbon that you discovered?
Are you finding yourself traveling to whiskey bars now?
How involved were you with the bottle design?
What tips do you have for signing bottles and not letting your hands get tired?
How did you script the social media launch for the brand?
What easter eggs did you hide in the label?
Is there a statement or impact you want to make with this brand?
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Whiskey Quickie: Whiskey JYPSI Explorer Bourbon Review May 14, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Whiskey JYPSI Explorer. This 6 year old bourbon is 103 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.

TWiB: Wild Turkey VIsitor Center is Open, Maker's Mark x TravisMathew New Golf Shoes, Prairie, American Solera, and Pursuit New Beer May 10, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for May 10th 2024. Wild Turkey is back open for visitors, Maker's Mark and TravisMathew collab on new golf gear. Prairie, American Solera, and Pursuit drop Not Subtle.
Show Notes:

WhiskeyLand S01 May 14th
AARP pours
Jammin' at Jeptha Creed Distillery
Wild Turkey is back open for visitors
Man fired a gun outside Buffalo Trace Distillery
Derby Day Party at Hartman's Distilling Co
Guilty plea from one of the original indicted nine suspects from Pappygate
Maker's Mark and TravisMathew collab on new golf gear
Stephen B. Beam Tasting Lodge
George Dickel bottled-in-bond 12 year
Liberty Pole Spirits Old Monongahela Full Proof Rye Whiskey
Stonestreet Kentucky Straight Bourbon Founder's Edition
Templeton Midnight Rye
Prairie Artisan Ales, American Solera, and Pursuit Spirits drop a 3 Way Beer Collab called Not Subtle
@whiskeylandtv @jepthacreed @wildturkey @buffalotracedistillery @hartmans_distilling @makersmark @travismathew @stephen.@beam.@7 @georgedickel @yellowstonebourbon @libertypolespirits @stonestreetwhiskey @templetondistillery @prairieales @pursuitspirits @americansolera
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461 - A Famous Name In Bourbon Takes on Rum with Turner Wathen of Rolling Fork May 09, 2024

We've had the very cool opportunity to have lots of famous names on this show, and today we get to hear the story of another brand that has been in bourbon for a very long time. In fact, in this episode you get a chance to hear from someone who's family once owned the Old Grandad label. Turner Wathen has a deep family lineage rooted in bourbon, and that originally piqued my interest because I used to own a bottle of Wathen's bourbon. Turner dives deep into his family history and how when he wanted to get into the whiskey business, he couldn't even use his family name. Turner shares his wild decision in 2014 by analyzing the whiskey market and feeling there is too much saturation so he dove into rum. But not just any rum, but he set himself on a mission to become the upmost recognizable independent bottler of amazing, high age stated rum, that is now Rolling Fork Spirits

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about NDPs and bottled in bond.
Can you give a background into how you found out your name was famous in bourbon?
At what point did you decide to revive the family legacy?
Are you still balancing your day job with all this?
When did you decide that bourbon was crowded and looked at other spirits?
Why is sorghum a bad grain to use?
How important is it to find rum with no additives and why is that important?
Was Fortuitous Union a mistake or the on purpose?
Why was there a legal battle for Fortuitous Union?
How much of an educational hurdle did you have to overcome?
When did you switch from the Fortuitous Union brand back to a rum focus?
Any reason why you haven't worked with any American rum producers?
What is going on with all the rum taxes?
Are we looking at the rare days of rum that would be equivalent to Van Winkle or early Jeffersons?
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Whiskey Quickie: JT Meleck Distillers Louisiana Rice Whiskey Review May 07, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review JT Meleck Distillers Louisiana Rice Whiskey. This 4 year old whiskey is 96 proof and $45 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!
DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

TWiB: Beam Suntory is Now Suntory Global Spirits, Blue Note Bourbon and Major League Pickleball, Whiskeyland Season 1 Premiers on May 14th May 03, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for May 4th 2024. Beam Suntory is now Suntory Global Spirits, Blue Note Bourbon has announced a multi-year partnership as the official bourbon of Major League Pickleball, and Whiskeyland Season 1 premiers on May 14th.
Show Notes:

Beam Suntory is now Suntory Global Spirits
Blue Note Bourbon has announced a multi-year partnership as the official bourbon of Major League Pickleball
Bulleit launches Don't Trash Glass
Elijah Craig's Official Bourbon Cocktail of the 2024 PGA Championship at Valhalla, The Elijah Craig Mulligan
Whiskeyland Season 1 premiers on May 14th
@suntoryglobalspirits @bluenotebourbon @majorleaguepb @bulleit @elijahcraig @pgatour @whiskeylandtv
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460 - What's the Value in Reviving Vintage Labels? with Bourbon Community Roundtable #93 May 02, 2024

It's Bourbon Community Roundtable #93 and this time we're talking about vintage labels. We've seen a resurgence of them over the past few years and there are more coming out from big distillers and smaller lesser known brands. I wanted to ask if there is any value in doing this before focusing on something more modern. There is a feeling of nostalgia but it also made me think about movie reboots and if all the good ideas are taken.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about used barrels with rye whiskey.
What value is there in reviving old labels?
NDPs or small craft producers taking something from a family lineage
NDP or craft just to have a story
azerac doing the Pre-Pro bottle labels
Big names like Beam now doing 16yr OGD
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Whiskey Quickie: Frey Ranch Single Grain Series 100% Wheat Whiskey Review Apr 30, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Frey Ranch Single Grain Series 100% Wheat Whiskey. This 3 year old whiskey is 100 proof and $55 MSRP (375mL). Let us know what you think. Cheers!
DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

TWiB: Master Distiller Alex Castle Leaves Old Dominick, Bourbon Market Size to Reach $12 Billion by 2030, Raconteur Rye Apr 26, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for April 26th 2024. Master Distiller Alex Castle will be leaving Old Dominick, the bourbon spirits market size to rise up to US$12 billion by 2030, The WoodWork Collective and David Jennings announce Raconteur Rye.
Show Notes:

Master Distiller Alex Castle will be leaving Old Dominick
Give 270 has a new giveaway
Three Chord Bourbon x Allman Brothers Band
Shelter Distilling expands to Montrose, Colorado
ourbon Spirits Market Size to Rise up to US$12 Billion by 2030
A ransomware attack on a Swedish logistics company
London Marathon runner tasted a different glass of wine each mile of the race.
Garrison Brothers Lady Bird
J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery Combat Infantry Badge (CIB) Bourbon
Bulleit 12-Year-Old Rye Whiskey
Derby City Gaming and Hotel “Thoroughbred Collection”
New Riff Silver Grove Bourbon and Silver Grove Rye
Basil Hayden Subtle Smoke
LuxRow Blood Oath Pact 10
Chattanooga Whiskey Founder’s 12th Anniversary Blend
Two Souls Spirits Spring 2024 release
The WoodWork Collective and David Jennings Raconteur Rye
@olddominick @give270 @threechordbourbon @shelterdistilling @garrisonbros @jmattingly1845 @bulleit @newriff @basilhayden @luxrowdistillers @chattwhiskey @rarebird101
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459 - Are You A Whiskey Company or a Marketing Company? Apr 25, 2024

This is a question that has plagued me for quite some time and it was inspired by my wife. Ryan and I continuously evaluate brands as we compare what works and what doesn't when it comes to consumers. We get caught in this trap of continually pivoting as we see other brands catch fire because of a bottle design or some element. So my wife asked me, Kenny, are you are whiskey company or a marketing company? It caught me off guard and I really had to think about the broader landscape so I wanted to make an episode where we talk about what it takes to be a whiskey company versus a marketing company. There's probably a lot of brands out there that think of themselves as a whiskey company but in reality they are a marketing company. Here's the thing, there's no wrong answer. Marketing plays a crucial role in whiskey and it could be the marketing that's in your face through point of sale, it could be bottle shapes, or even the lack of marketing to keep the mystique alive. I thoroughly enjoyed this conversation and it probably requires us to hit this topic again in the future if you send us your feedback.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about Maker's Mark and their role in bourbon resurgence.
Where do you spend your first initial investment?
Does the liquid even matter?
Does having special distillation, heirloom grains, or anything else really matter?
Can a big distiller be considered a marketing company?
When a big distiller creates the same label with different colors and proofs, is that about the whiskey?
How do you transition from being a marketing company to a whiskey company?
Does it matter if you're getting it from one source like everyone else?
Do you need to cater to the neophytes or the mass consumer market?
If Fred Minnick starts a brand would you put your money in marketing or the whiskey?
Can you be a whiskey company if you are using MGP?
Is a lack of marketing considered marketing?
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Whiskey Quickie: High N' Wicked Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey Review Apr 23, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review High N' Wicked Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey. This 5 year old whiskey is 98.2 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.

TWiB: A New Knife Collaboration, 2024 SIP Scholarship Program, Keeneland and Maker’s Launch Greats of the Gate Apr 19, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for April 19th 2024. Maker's Mark, Ed Lee, and Messermeister come out with a knife collaboration, Bourbon Women announces the 2024 SIP Scholarship Program, and Keeneland Race Course and Maker’s Mark launch Greats of the Gate.
Show Notes:

Woodford Reserve Distillery has unfairly influenced a 2022 unionization vote
Maker's Mark, Ed Lee, and Messermeister come out with a knife collaboration
Bargo 459 joins The Kentucky Distillers’ Association
Bourbon Women is pleased to announce the 2024 SIP Scholarship Program
Hard Truth Distilling Co. to break ground on its third rackhouse
Old Line Spirits 51 Rye Whiskey
Keeneland Race Course and Maker’s Mark launch Greats of the Gate
@woodfordreserve @makersmark @chefedwardlee @messer_meister @bourbonwomen @hardtruthspirits @oldlinespirits @keeneland
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458 - Are Sneakerheads Years Ahead of Bourbon Hunters? with Matt Kusek Apr 18, 2024

Whenever you get into a hobby that involved enthusiasts and collecting, there are trends that begin to appear. Allocations, raffles, lotteries, fakes, these are things that become common. One of those hobbies that has quite a few parallels is sneakers. Matt Kusek is a certified whiskey enthusiasts as a write for Malt Review but he's also the host of the Swoosh Life podcast that focuses on sneaker heads. He joins the show to give us an insight into how the shoe game and bourbon have so many similarities that, in Matt's words, sneakers are 20 years ahead of bourbon. We dive into the types of collectors, brands, sales, allocation, and so much more. If sneakers are really 20 years ahead of bourbon, who knows what the next few years has in store for us.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about Buffalo Trace expansion.
What's the similarity between Jordan's and bourbon releases?
Are there raffles, lotteries, or hunts for sneakers?
Who is the distributor and how do they own the retail store?
If Nike is number one, who would they be compared to and who's the next biggest?
Mom and pop stores vs chains and how are they getting pushed out of the market?
What about saving and storing vs wearing or drinking?
Is it Jordan and then everyone else?
What is the Heaven Hill or Weller of sneakers?
Are there people that only collect one type of shoe?
Bourbon hits all walks of life or does the sneaker enthusiasts hit all walks of life?
Are there sneakers that don't need marketing?
Do you look differently at people who are rookies and buy stuff just because they want every color?
Are there any value brands that hold up over time?
Are there some LTOs that flop?
Are replicas or fakes a big problem?
Has the market gone down because everything became a limited edition?
Was Blue Run able to sneakerize the industry in your opinion?
@mattkusek
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Whiskey Quickie: Jack Daniel's 12 Year Batch 2 Tennessee Whiskey Review Apr 16, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Jack Daniel's 12 Year Batch 2 Tennessee Whiskey. This 12 year old whiskey is 107 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.

TWiB: Derby Season With Lots of Events, Jeff Hopmayer Joins The Board for Staghorn, 18 Brand New Whiskey Releases! Apr 12, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for April 12th 2024. Derby season is abuzz in Louisville with lots of events, Jeff Hopmayer joins the board for Staghorn, and 18 new whiskey releases.
Show Notes:

A21 Wine & Spirits has agreed to purchase the Noble Oak American Whiskey brand from Edrington
Slow Pass Bourbon Co. LLC is considering opening a $70 million distillery in Springfield, Ky
Three limited-time Derby experiences for booking on Buzzard's Roost
The Woodford Reserve $1,000 and $5,000 Mint Julep cups charity program
Staghorn has appointed Brindiamo Group founder Jeff Hopmayer to serve on the advisory board
Chef Edward Lee recently released a cookbook called Bourbon Land
Michter’s 10 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon
2XO The Kiawah Blend
High n’ Wicked cask strength rye and bourbon
High West Bourye
Jim Gaffigan launches Fathertime Bourbon
Ezra Brooks 99 Port Wine Cask Finish
Ole Smoky Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Booker’s Springfield Batch
BHAKTA 2014 Bourbon
A. Overholt
Chicken Cock Double Oak Single Barrel
BLACKENED Whiskey 2024 edition of Rye the Lighting
Savage & Cooke Distillery Howling Mob Bourbon Whiskey and Bloody Butcher Bourbon Whiskey
Still Austin Ruby Red Port Barrel Finished Straight Rye Whiskey
Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond 25th Anniversary Edition
Orphan Barrel Indigo’s Hour Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Milam & Greene Whiskey 2024 Wildlife Collection: Mockingbird Single Barrel Bourbon
@nobleoak @buzzardsroostwhiskey @woodfordreserve @brindiamogroup @chefedwardlee @michterswhiskey @2xowhiskey @dixon_dedman @highnwicked @drinkhighwest @jimgaffigan @fathertimebourbon @ezrabrooksbourbon @olesmokey @bhaktaspirits @chickencockwhiskey @blackenedamericanwhiskey @savageandcooke @stillatx @heavenhilldistillery @milamandgreenewhiskey
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457 - The Epic Hunt for Dusty Booze with Aaron Goldfarb Apr 11, 2024

You hear us talk about dusty bourbon on the show too often. We keep beating that dead horse because it's a chance to drink history and have a completely different whiskey than what's in the bottle today. Vintage spirits are on the rise and have gone from an underground enthusiast crowd into the mainstream. Aaron Goldfarb is a distinguished author and he joins the show to talk about his new book titled Dusty Booze. This books has a storyline with finding a dusty goldmine but goes into the story of decanters, minis, and the hunt for rare bottles. It's now available on Amazon and lots of different outlets.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about bourbon with malted barely with the highest secondary grain.
What made you want to write a book on vintage whiskey?
What were some of those iconic decanters that were made?
What was the story you saw form out of the glut era?
Did you ever talk to store owners and ask why they would sit on inventory for this long?
Why did decanters become so popular or unpopular?
What makes a dusty spirit different from today's current releases?
Did anyone come up with a better term other than dusty funk?
Why was there a bigger market for minis back in the day?
Talk about the storyline and how Kevin came across this goldmine and any legal implications.
How many bar owners did you talk to about running a business on vintage spirits?
What do you think has to be considered vintage?
Was there any information in the book that teaches you how to date code vintage whiskey?
Is there a chance that any store is left with any dusty bottles?
Do you need dusty cocktail ingredients?
@aarongoldfarb
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Whiskey Quickie: Heaven Hill Heritage Collection 18 Year Bourbon Review Apr 09, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Heaven Hill Heritage Collection 18 Year. This 18 year old bourbon is 120 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.

Behind The Pursuit: How To Choose a Distributor Apr 05, 2024

Subscribe to Behind The Pursuit: From Bourbon to Brand

Stemming from the episode of the Bourbon Pursuit podcast with John Foster of Ragged Branch, today's episode comes from a few listeners of the show, Todd and David, as Kenny discusses the process of choosing distributors specifically for Pursuit Spirits. We touch on topics such as the three-tier distribution system, the role of distributors in the industry, and the challenges of market launches and incentives. We also share experiences with different distributors and the importance of building relationships in the industry. Kenny discusses the challenges of managing skew sprawl and UPCs in the bourbon industry. He explains how Pursuit Spirits aims to strike a balance between batch uniqueness and consumer familiarity. He also shares advice for those starting in the industry, emphasizing the importance of education and consulting. He explores different distribution models and the goals brands may have, whether it's long-term brand building or rapid expansion... but where is Pursuit in all of this?

We hit on:

Choosing the right distributor being crucial for a brand's success in the spirits industry.
The three-tier distribution system presenting both challenges and opportunities for brands.
Market launches, market support, and building relationships with distributors and retailers.
Different distributors strengths and capabilities, and the importance of finding the right one for each market.
Brand consideration of their goals and a distribution model that aligns with their long-term plans, whether it's slow brand building or rapid expansion.
Pursuit Spirits' own business model.

and much more.

Be sure to visit pursuitspirits.com and click on Visit Us to book a tasting or barrel selection experience. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at podcast@pursuitspirits.com.

456 - Will Non Distilling Producers Survive 2024? And A Message From Barrell Bourbon on Bourbon Community Roundtable #92 Apr 04, 2024

The past few weeks there have been lots of speculation about non distilling producers, or known as NDPs, being able to survive. The market has shifted and there are images of sourced brands that have prices slashed on shelves along with others having their facilities up for sale. This makes us wonder what is in store for the remainder of the year. We talk about what makes NDPs special and how every big distillery was also a NDP at one point as well. There's also a message coming directly from Barrell Bourbon about their current listings.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about hot sauce and bourbon.
What will happen to NDPs in 2024?
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Whiskey Quickie: Chattanooga Whiskey White Port Cask Finished Review Apr 02, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Chattanooga Whiskey White Port Cask Finished. This 5 year old whiskey is 95 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.

TWiB: New Service Called Kentucky Bourbon Retreat, Hard Truth's Farmer’s Reserve, Woodford Reserve's $15,000 Derby Bottle Mar 29, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 29th 2024. A new service is launching dubbed the Kentucky Bourbon Retreat, Hard Truth Distilling Co. announced the introduction of Farmer’s Reserve, and Woodford Reserve drops a $15,000 bottle for the 150th Kentucky Derby.
Show Notes:

A new service is launching dubbed the Kentucky Bourbon Retreat
Indiana has new liquor laws
West Virginia's legislature has approved a bill that would allow individuals to distill
Better Business Bureau warns of scam bourbon retail sites and social media accounts
50 Cent has filed a $6 million embezzlement case against Beam Suntory
A vintage Perone beer can has sold for an astounding $62,830
Hard Truth Distilling Co. Farmer’s Reserve
15 STARS First West Bourbon
Woodford Reserve 150th Kentucky Derby
@50cent @barrelglobal @hardtruthspirits @woodfordreserve
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455 - Digging Into The Psychology of a Bourbon Hunter with Jim White of Reality Check Mar 28, 2024

Understanding how the bourbon geek thinks has been something that has dumbfounded us for years. We talk about it all the time on roundtables and other episodes where we try to guess why consumers purchase in certain ways. And for the longest time, you all have asked why don't we get someone on the show that can talk about the psychology of a bourbon drinker. Well, ask and you shall receive. In this very special episode, Jim White, the Founder and President of Reality Check consulting who has a background in bourbon advertising and psychology joins the show to talk about how people think and how brands can develop a story. This episode will dive into the psychology of scarcity, pricing, limited editions, repeat purchases, and so much more. During different segments you're going to come away realizing a reason why you chase and hunt bottles as well.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about enforcement of bottled in bond.
Can you give a background about Reality Check Consulting?
What research methods do you use to get consumer feedback?
What things in our psychology trigger us to look at certain brands?
How does a brand like Weller go from zero to hero in such a short time?
Why should brands create limited edition offerings from a psychology perspective?
Is there another type of consumer that just isn't worried about status?
How does a brand focused on volume market differently?
Why would someone purchase the same bottle over and over again?
Do other categories have fans that want their own hobby to fail?
Is brand loyalty dead?
How do you attract a customer to look beyond what's safe?
Does FOMO play a big role?
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Whiskey Quickie: Broken Barrel Honey Smoke Reserva American Whiskey Review Mar 26, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Broken Barrel Honey Smoke Reserva American Whiskey. This 6 year old whiskey is 110 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.

TWiB: MGP Files Lawsuits Against Two Cities, More Partnerships in Golf Are Coming, Rabbit Hole Heretofore Mar 22, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 22nd 2024. MGP is getting ready to battle two cities in court, more partnerships in golf are coming from Elijah Craig and Blade & Bow, and Rabbit Hole released the newest member of its Distillery Series, Heretofore.
Show Notes:

MGP is getting ready to battle two cities in court
Thieves got away with bourbon that was inside a parked truck
Bespoken Spirits new headquarters in Lexington, Kentucky
Flying Ace announced an educational scholarship program with Folds of Honor
Barmen 1873 Bourbon is rolling out its first-ever celebrity partnership with Lainey Wilson
Blade and Bow Kentucky partners with golf champion Wyndham Clark
Elijah Craig welcomes the 2024 PGA Championship
Jack & Ginger Ale
Knob Creek collaborates on a limited release with LL Cool J
Penelope Rio is set to arrive on shelves in March
Maker’s Mark has now launched the London edition of its Wood Finishing City Series
Rabbit Hole Distillery released the newest member of its Distillery Series “Heretofore“
@bespokenspirits @flyingacespirits @foldsofhonor @barmen1873 @bladeandbowwhiskey @elijahcraig @jackdaniels_us @knobcreek @peneoplebourbon @makersmark @rabbithole @raekwon @llcoolj
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454 - The Evolving Trends of Bourbon Journalism with Maggie Kimberl Mar 21, 2024

Before there were Instagram and TikTok influencers, YouTubers, and even podcasters, there were writers. I'm not talking about bloggers. But esteemed authors and journalists who dug into a story and took it to magazines and other trade publications. The times have changed, our attention spans have gotten much shorter, and now running a story is much different. To help gives more insight into whiskey journalism we've invited Maggie Kimberl back on the show. She's the Content Editor of American Whiskey Magazine and writes some of the most intriguing stories in bourbon today. We all evaluate how access to distilleries have gotten harder through PR firms and how there may be a dilution of valuable content and talent because the barrier to entry is much lower through social media. It's not all doom and gloom though. We are now in a time when there is more to talk about than ever in bourbon. There is going to be no shortage of new stories with the boom of so many new distilleries and entrants into the market.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the lobbying groups for whiskey and bourbon.
How small was the community in whiskey journalism?
Has the access to the distillers and the people changed over the years?
How many more events are there now?
At what point in time did you start seeing a shift happen from deep articles vs click bait?
If writing isn't a means to have a successful career did judging whiskey awards feel like a next step?
What are the types of stories in magazines that people really latch on to and engage?
Do stories on bourbon tourism do well?
Do you see a problem with short-form content and those content creators?
Do big brands even need bourbon media any longer?
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Whiskey Quickie: Widow Jane Paradigm Rye Review Mar 19, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Widow Jane Paradigm Rye. This non-age stated rye is 93 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.

TWiB: A Brewer Sues Government To Distill as a Hobby, Chattanooga Batch 037: Ancient Wheat, Yellowstone Rum Cask Finish Mar 15, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 15th 2024. A brewer in Ohio is suing the federal government saying he should be able to distil as a hobby, Chattanooga is releasing DISCOVER EXPERIMENTAL BATCH 037: ANCIENT WHEAT!, and Limestone Branch Distillery has announced the second release in its Yellowstone Special Finishes Collection: Yellowstone Rum Cask Finish
Show Notes:

Should the government be able to stop you from making whiskey?
Buzzard’s Roost Ambuzzador
Rebel 100 6-Year Bourbon
Chattanooga is releasing Discover Experimental Batch 037: Ancient Wheat
Yellowstone Rum Cask Finish
@buzzardsroostwhiskey @chattwhiskey @rebelbourbon @yellowstonebourbon
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453 - Will Horses Help Sell a Bottle? with Sean Josephs of Pinhook Mar 14, 2024

The platform of this podcast was to help connect listeners to the brands they see on the store shelves. As time has gone on, sometimes we discover there really isn't much substance to a brand. But today's guest is the very opposite. I found myself enthralled with our guests history in the culinary world and what he's doing to make his whiskey be one that many can appreciate from the liquid to the blending. Sean Josephs is the Co-Founder & Master Blender behind Pinhook. You know all those bottles with race horses on the label and different colored wax. Sean talks about getting his start in restaurants, grinding it out, and eventually working at some of the world's premier establishments and becoming such a decorated wine sommelier that he would be considered famous by those standards. Consider me a bit star struck by the time this episode is over. Then he finds a new passion in bourbon and opens up one of the first ever whiskey bars in Brooklyn and eventually left to start Pinkhook bourbon. Sean's passion comes through and we learn the secret decoder ring to knowing more about all his Pinhook bottles and what's in store for the future.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about adding water to high proof whiskey.
What's your background and how did you get into bourbon?
As a somm, do you remember the most epic wine?
Was starting a whiskey bar in 2008 in Brooklyn a bold move?
Were barrel selections becoming popular for restaurants in 2016?
What made you want to stop doing bars and restaurants and start the whiskey brand?
Can you explain the packaging and colors and how they work?
What makes your whiskey special and what are you doing there?
How long do you think you'll have enough whiskey to keep your projects going?
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Whiskey Quickie: New Riff Bohemian Wheat Bourbon Review Mar 12, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review New Riff Bohemian Wheat Bourbon. This 8 year old bourbon is 117.9 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.

TWiB: National Buzzard's Day Is a Thing, Old Forester High Angel's Share, Pursuit Releases United Double Oaked Bourbon Mar 08, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 8th 2024. National Buzzard's Day is a thing, Old Forester releases High Angel's Share, and Pursuit Spirits finally releases their long awaited United Double Oaked Bourbon.
Show Notes:

March 15 is National Buzzards Day
Ohio Liquor Goes Irish
Old Forester High Angels’ Share
Milam & Greene 2024 Wildlife Collection, the Golden Eagle Single Barrel Bourbon
New Riff Distilling 8-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Woodford Reserve 2024 commemorative Derby bottle
15 STARS First West Rye Whiskey and 8&15 YO Private Stock Fine Aged Bourbon
The Perfect Fifth 14-year-old American Whiskey
Michter’s US*1 Barrel Strength Kentucky Straight Rye
Peerless Toasted Bourbon - Batch 1
@buzzardsroostwhiskey @ohioliquor @oldforester @milamandgreenewhiskey @newriff @woodfordreserve @15starsbourbon @michterswhiskey @kentuckypeerless @theperfectfifth @bourbon_colonel86
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452 - Is the Bourbon Boom Over? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #91 Mar 07, 2024

Is the bourbon boom really over? Some people think it may. Fred Minnick recently touched on this subject and people began talking about their ideas and buying habits. We wanted to tackle that by touching on publicly traded companies, heresay from our own experience, and if we truly think craft and NDPs are in trouble.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about international market not working.
Publicly traded companies like Diego and Brown Forman.
Consumers buying mainstays.
Retailers are cautious about new brands.
International markets.
Economic impacts
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Whiskey Quickie: Fireside Hazmat Proof Bourbon Review Mar 05, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Fireside Hazmat Proof Bourbon. This 6 year old bourbon is 141.2 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.

TWiB: Brown‑Forman Sells Its Jack Daniel Cooperage, WSWA Says Premiumization is Dead, Lost Lantern Releases the Spring 2024 Collection Mar 01, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 1st 2024. Brown‑Forman Corporation has sold its Jack Daniel Cooperage to Independent Stave Company, Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America say that premiumization is dead, and Lost Lantern releases their Spring 2024 collection.
Show Notes:

Brown‑Forman Corporation has sold its Jack Daniel Cooperage
The Ripken Experience
Maker's Mark labels for inspirational woman
Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey has opened a whiskey lodge in Aspen
Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America say that premiumization is dead
Justins’ has sued Kentucky ABC
Kentucky lawmakers are moving to close loopholes in the Vintage Distilled Spirits law
FC Dallas partnership with Campari America
Kentucky Bourbon Festival ticket sale dates
Jaywalk Straight Rye
Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing City Series Singapore Edition
Lost Lantern Spring 2024 collection
Evan Williams Single Barrel Bourbon with a commemorative 52nd Edition Gold Pegasus Pin
Still Austin Whiskey Co Bottled in Bond Straight Rye Whiskey
Total Eclipse Kentucky Straight Bourbon
McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams and Garrison Bros Whiskey Pecan & Pralines
@jackdaniels_us @brownforman @makersmark @stranahans @fcdallas @campariusa @wildturkey @longbranchbourbon @kybourbonfest @lostlanternwhiskey @evanwilliamsbourbon @ewbourbonexperience @stillatx @caseyjonesdistillery @garrisonbros @mcconnellsicecreams
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451 - Is There a Real White Oak Shortage? with Danna Baxley of The Nature Conservancy Feb 29, 2024

The barrel is a magical component to the creation of bourbon and nearly 95% of all bourbon goes into white oak. But what's the problem with this? Bourbon can only be used in a charred barrel once. After that, it needs to find a new home. Now that may sound wasteful but the bourbon market is only a very small contributor to the current white oak problem. To help us better understand about forestry and the white oak supply I've invited Daana Baxley from the Nature Conservancy in Kentucky to join the show. She gives some great insight into the current state of white oak trees and what is currently being done to protect our forests. I've never known what it takes to manage forests and this episode will give you an insight into grading and how invasive species of trees continue to decline the white oak population. But more so, Daana gives us some insight if we will ever experience a white oak shortage in the future and what we can do to help protect it.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about running out of old bourbon.
What took you on a path to nature preservation?
How are you able to achieve your mission without using scare tactics?
Why is Appalachia so important?
What does "protection" mean in the sense of a nature conservancy?
What is the current status of the white oak species?
What is the proper way to manage these forests?
What does high grading mean?
How has ash or maple impacted the population?
How many years into the future are we looking at when we will see a big white oak problem?
Is the bourbon industry a problem or is there another industry to blame?
Do bourbon drinkers even care if there is sustainability practices happening?
Do other industries join in conversation practices like the white oak initiative?
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Whiskey Quickie: Jack Daniel's Distillery Series #12 Review Feb 27, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Jack Daniel's Distillery Series #12 Tennessee Whiskey Finished in Oloroso Sherry Casks. This non-age stated whiskey is 90 proof and $42 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.

Behind The Pursuit: What is Left to Innovate? Feb 23, 2024

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On today’s show we discuss the topic of innovation in the bourbon industry and explore the different ways brands differentiate their products. We question whether there is anything left to innovate and the reasons consumers are drawn to finished whiskeys. The conversation touches on the marketing strategies of brands and the perception of American finished whiskeys compared to other products such as Scotch whisky. We also discuss the potential for future innovations and trends in the industry.

We hit on:

The bourbon industry has seen a proliferation of finished whiskeys as a way for brands to differentiate their products.
Consumers are drawn to finished whiskeys because they are marketed as unique and innovative.
Do you think brands see these as products missing in the market, or is it a way to grab new consumers?
There is still room for innovation in the use of different types of oak and wood influences in bourbon production.
The perception and marketing of finished whiskeys differ between bourbon and Scotch whisky.
Future innovations in the industry may involve exploring new flavors and blending techniques.

and much more.

Be sure to visit pursuitspirits.com and click on Visit Us to book a tasting or barrel selection experience. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at podcast@pursuitspirits.com.

450 - Is American Single Malt On The Rise? with Steve Hawley, President of American Single Malt Whiskey Commission Feb 22, 2024

There's a few things we talk about from time to time on the show. Sometimes it's RTDs, sometimes it's tequlia, and one spirit that seems to make it's way into more conversations is American Single Malt whiskey. However, I told myself that if we're going to talk about American Single Malt whiskey then we need a person that can really go indepth. What better person than Steve Hawley who is the President of the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission. Steve joins the show to talk about his background starting Westland Distillery and then formed the commission. We talk about the growth of the category, production methods, exports, and it's current journey to being recognized by the rest of the world.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the effect of climate change.
How did you get into the whiskey business?
If barley grows so well then why isn't there a history of it?
What is the importance of trying to make American Single Malt an approved category?
How did you become the president of the commission?
How have case sales grown from 2010 till today?
Is the SMWC analogous to DISCUS or KDA?
What is the proposed definition of American Single Malt and what's the current status of it?
What rules were valid versus ones that seemed really weird?
Why do people prefer pot still for single malt production?
When a heritage brand creates a single malt like Jim Beam and Heaven Hill, does this hurt or help?
Are American Single Malt producers starting to look at exports instead of domestic education?
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Whiskey Quickie: Hemingway Rye Signature Edition Review Feb 20, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Hemingway Rye Signature Edition. This non-age stated rye is 102 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.

TWiB: Bulleit and Redemption Are Back in Court, MGP Sues the Town of Williamstown, Kentucky, Woodford Reserve Batch Proof Announced Feb 16, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for February 16th 2024. Bulleit and Redemption whiskey brands are back at it in court, MGP is suing the city of Williamstown, Kentucky, and Woodford Reserve has released its annual limited-edition, high-proof expression Woodford Reserve Batch Proof.
Show Notes:

Woodford Reserve teams up with Sergio Hudson and Anifa Mvuemb for fashion
Bulleit and Redemption whiskey brand are back at it in court
Staghorn has named Lisa Wicker as the first Master Distiller
MGP is suing the city of Williamstown, Kentucky
Woodford Reserve Batch Proof
Bulleit American Single Malt
High n’ Wicked Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
Chattanooga Whiskey Barrel Finishing Series: White Port Cask Finished
Gin & Juice By Dre and Snoop
@woodfordreserve @bulleit @redemptionwhiskey @chattwhiskey @drdre @snoopdogg
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449 - Ed Bley is Back with Old Stubborn Whiskey Feb 15, 2024

Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, we finally see the re-emergence of Ed Bley. Ed has been a previous guest on the podcast that was from way back in 2018. So if you just started listening to Bourbon Pursuit, then you probably have no idea of the impact Ed had on the bourbon world during that time. Ed went into hiding and went on a mission to bring some new whiskey to the world and he's now back presenting his new line called Old Stubborn. We talk about his background in blending and the journey he took from working at Cork N Bottle, picking barrels, and being a big influence in the larger bourbon community to losing hope on building a distillery and then quickly pivoting to find whiskey that wasn't available on the open market. This is one of the most anticipated interviews for many of you long-time listeners so enjoy this episode with Ed Bley.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about sustainability and new oak barrels.
What is your background and what were you doing on the retail side?
How often do you reject barrels during a barrel selection?
Can you give some background on Old Baldy?
Why would you want to leave a comfortable position to do your own thing?
Why would you want to start a distillery versus sourcing barrels?
How did you search for whiskey to use?
Why did you call the whiskey Old Stubborn?
Is there a reason why you put the word "old" on your bottles?
Can you talk about how you ended up on the bottle?
What went into this first release?
How did the conversations start to acquire your whiskey stocks?
Is this high price a sustainable business model?
What does your product strategy look like?
What is your plan for distribution and expansion?
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Whiskey Quickie: Heart of Mystic Bourbon Review Feb 13, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Heart of Mystic Bourbon. This 3 year old bourbon is 114.6 proof and $40 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.

TWiB: 2023 Bourbon Economic Impact Study, Bardstown Bourbon Company's “House of Bardstown", Heaven Hill Heritage Collection 18 Year Feb 09, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for February 9th 2024. 2023 Bourbon Economic Impact Study is out, Bardstown Bourbon Company introduces the “House of Bardstown," and Heaven Hill releases Heritage Collection 18-Year-Old Bourbon.
Show Notes:

2023 Bourbon Economnic Impact Study is out.
Bardstown Bourbon Company introduces the “House of Bardstown"
Old Forester named Caleb Trigo as Assistant Master Distiller
Distilled Living is an Official Sponsor of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail
Bourbon Strong 50-4-50 charity raffle
Distilled in Washington, A History new book
Will the Apple Vision Pro change the drinks industry forever?
The Fielder’s Choice Collection
Four Gate Triple Oak
Puncher’s Chance THE UNIFIED BELT
Jack Daniel's Batch 2 of its 12-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey and Batch 3 of its 10-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey
Path of Totality Bourbon Whiskey
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof A124
Penelope Bourbon Tokaji Cask Finish
Kentucky Old Fashioned Bourbon Barrel Ale
Heaven Hill releases Heritage Collection 18-Year-Old Bourbon
@bardstownbourbonco @oldforester @distilledliving @give270 @jriegerco @fourgatewhiskey @puncherschancebourbon @jackdaniels_us @haynerdistilling @elijahcraig @penelopebourbon @heavenhilldistillery @heavenhillbrands @alltechbrews
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448 - When Does An Age Statement Matter? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #90 Feb 08, 2024

Whether it's 2 or 12 years old, the age statement on a bottle seems to be an attractor to many. But as we start diving more into our bourbon journey we start realizing that age is just a number. I've had some really great bourbons at 4 years old and some really great at 14. With all that being said, at what point should you proudly display that age statement on the bottle? In this roundtable, we dive into this topic and look at the history of age statements and when we started paying attention to them. There's also brands that have a lot of success without an age statement like Maker's Mark and most of the Buffalo Trace portfolio. And now that the modern bourbon consumer has been accustom to seeing age statements, would you pass on a bottle just because it said 4 years old on it?

Show Notes:

bove the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about people hating Buffalo Trace products.
When Does An Age Statement Matter?
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Whiskey Quickie: Nelson Brothers Rye Review Feb 06, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Nelson Brothers Rye. This non-age stated rye is 92.5 proof and $37 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.

TWiB: Elijah Craig and AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, Southern Glazer’s Sued By Provi, Buzzard’s Roost American Whiskey Feb 02, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for February 2nd 2024. Eijah Craig returns as the Official Bourbon of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, Southern Glazer’s is being sued by online platform Provi, and Buzzard’s Roost introduces their American Whiskey.
Show Notes:

ReserveBar partners with delivery.com
Old Forester featured in Argylle
Southern Glazer’s is being sued by online platform Provi
Elijah Craig is the Official Bourbon of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am
Buzzard’s Roost introduces their American Whiskey
@reservebarspirits @oldforester @deliverdotcom @oldforester @elijahcraig @buzzardsroostwhiskey
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447 - The Economics of the Used Barrel Market with Ben and Jess Loseke of Midwest Barrel Company Feb 01, 2024

We're all too familiar with the barrel and it's impact on whiskey but what about it's life after whiskey? Actually, there's quite a lot. These barrels can be used for aging other spirits, beer, furniture, bbq smoking chips, the list is endless. But did you ever stop to think how those used barrels go from one man's trash to another man's treasure? Well, there's one company that has made a name for themselves and that's Midwest Barrel Company. Ben and Jessica Loseke join the show to talk about how Ben got into the used barrel business and the economics behind it. If you ever find yourself glued to an episode of Storage Wars or Pawn Stars, you'll love to hear how Ben stumbled into used barrels and everything else he tried to flip in the process. Today, Midwest Barrel Company is brokering tons of used bourbon barrels and talks about how he develops his sales pipeline and acquires new customers.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about price and quality opinions.
How did you discover a business in used barrels?
Do you remember for you first big score?
Did you ever get in legal trouble buying and flipping stuff?
What year did you buy your first barrels?
How many empty barrels can you fit on a full truck?
Who were your main customers?
How did you figure out how to scale this business?
How hard was it to let go of certain aspects of the business?
How do you find new suppliers and new customers?
Is this considered commodity trading?
Is this a cutthroat industry where you are overbidding others?
How fast can you turn around a barrel once you receive it?
What are you doing when you steam a barrel?
What other things are people making with barrels?
How do you know what your pipeline looks like for sales and purchasing?
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Whiskey Quickie: Old Man Winter Bourbon Review Jan 30, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Old Man Winter Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 109.8 proof and $160 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.

TWiB: 2023 Craft Spirits Data Project, New Riff Appoints a Master Distiller, Green River Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey Jan 26, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for January 26th 2024. Craft Spirits Data Project has released is 2023 data, New Riff Distilling announces a master distiller, and Green River Distilling will release its highly anticipated Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey.
Show Notes:

Craft Spirits Data Project has released is 2023 data
New Riff has named a master distiller
Diageo has lost its appeal to dismiss a lawsuit
Lexington beams messages to outer space
Green River Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
Multifarious and Purple Karma Pinnacle from Patty Green Whiskey Distillers
Nelson Brothers Maple Cask Finish
Woodford Reserve Double Double Oaked Bourbon
@newriff @woodfordreserve @greenriverdistillingco @nelsonsgreenbrier
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446 - What Do RTDs Do For Bourbon? Jan 25, 2024

Cracking the can on a warm day sounds like something out of commercial. Over the past year we talked about the RTD or ready-to-drink category beginning to explode because of High Noon and now major bourbon brands are moving into the ready-to-drink space since the canned cocktails' accessibility, lower alcohol content, and mixability make them an appealing gateway for newcomers while still leveraging whiskey's premium status. Though launching requires significant investment, the potential for brand awareness and category growth is alluring. In this episode, Ryan, Fred, and Kenny sip on 5 different bourbon-based RTDs and give our theories on canned cocktail popularity, health concerns, ingredients, and where the category could expect to go.
Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the best rickhouse in the industry.
Drinking Jim Beam Highball
Why do brands decide to get into the RTD category?
Drinking Jack Daniel's Honey Lemonade
How important is sugar content in the RTD?
Can RTDs be a gateway to more bourbon drinkers?
Is it better to have brand recognition before starting a RTD?
Drinking Home School Blood Orange Manhattan
Is it too expensive to get into the RTD game?
What is the shelf life of a RTD?
How do you define a RTD?
Drinking CANVAS Bourbon Lemon Spice
Is Bourbon Cream a RTD?
Do prefer carbonation or no carbonation?
Drinking Thomas Ashborn Classic Old Fashion
Does it matter what kind of bourbon you put into it?
Where is this category going to go?
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Whiskey Quickie: Ironroot Harbinger Tribarrel Blend Bourbon Review Jan 23, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Ironroot Harbinger Tribarrel Blend Bourbon. This bourbon is 132.8 proof and $86 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.

TWiB: Uber Shuts Down Drizly, Woodford Partners With Compartes for Valentines, Old Forester Whiskey Row Series 1924 Jan 19, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for January 19th 2024. Uber is shuttering alcohol delivery service Drizly, Woodford Reserve has partnered with award-winning gourmet chocolate brand for Valentines Day, and Old Forester® announces the newest release in its Whiskey Row Series 1924.
Show Notes:

Woodford Reserve partners with Compartés for Valentines Day
RD1 Spirits has unveiled plans for its $4.8 million brand destination
Uber Technologies is shuttering alcohol delivery service Drizly
The States That Drink the Most Alcohol in America
Diageo and Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs have settled their legal disputes
Staghorn is opening its first distillery, Garrard County Distilling Co.
Old Forester 1924
Garrison Brothers 2024 Guadalupe
six-year-old Rabble Rouser Bottled-in-Bond Rye Whisky from Catoctin Creek
@woodfordreserve @rd1spirits @compartes @vinepair @oldforester @garrisonbros @catoctincreek
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445 - How To Deal With Distributors with John Foster of Ragged Branch Jan 18, 2024

Now that we have our own bourbon with Pursuit Spirits, we're learning first hand how distributors can make or break your brand. There's a huge learning curve to understanding the lingo and just being able to communicate on the same page. But this can be maddening if you choose the wrong distributor that doesn't give you any attention and let's your brand go stale. We invited Johnny Foster to come back on the show to give us insights on how to work best with distributors. Johnny was a guest back on Episode 227 when he was a part of Smooth Ambler but now he's at Ragged Branch and leads their sales and distribution. He gives the pros and cons of selecting large versus boutique distributors, how to spend smartly on incentives, and targeted marketing funds. Ultimately though, motivating partners comes down to building authentic relationships through regular visits and communication.
Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the export market.
What are you doing today at Ragged Branch?
How do you motivate distributors without losing your damn mind?
How do you tell a story and justify a higher price tag versus the big 6 staples?
What can smaller distillers do to appeal to distributors?
How do you guide people on choosing a distributor that is big or small?
How do you spend money with a distributor through incentives and programs?
What does it cost to get in-store displays?
What dollar amount per case do you put towards programming?
What makes a company look attractive for acquisition?
What are successful methods for marketing and getting product off the shelf?
Where do you put focus on chains vs independent stores?
How do you protect yourself from contracts?
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Whiskey Quickie: Heaven's Door Bootleg Volume V Bourbon Review Jan 16, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Heaven's Door Bootleg Volume V Bourbon. This 18-year-old bourbon is 114 proof and $600 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!
DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

TWiB: New Documentary Called Bourbon Blaze, Rebel Bourbon Joins NASCAR, Templeton Whiskey Unveils Templeton Bourbon Jan 12, 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for January 12th 2024. A new bourbon documentary comes out today called Bourbon Blaze, Rebel Bourbon has signed a sponsorship agreement with Richard Childress Racing, and Templeton Whiskey Unveils their Templeton Straight Bourbon.
Show Notes:

Spec's had their massive drop. So camping is alive and well.
Bourbon Blaze: The Night That Tested America’s Spirit
Banks Festival demonstrates its commitment to community impact
Artisanal Spirits Company (ASC), owner of the Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS), has acquired US-based independent bottler Single Cask Nation
Middle West Spirits has completed a new world-class distillery in Columbus, Ohio
Rebel Bourbon has signed a sponsorship agreement with Richard Childress Racing
Traveller Whiskey
Templeton Straight Bourbon
@specs1962 @bourbononthebanks @singlecasknation @middlewestspirits @rebelbourbon @templetondistillery
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444 - Our Big 2024 Predictions on Bourbon Community Roundtable #89 Jan 11, 2024

This is the first roundtable of 2024 and, as usual, we want to pack it with our best 2024 predictions of the year. Some may seem obvious, some may seem way out of left field, and some are even dreary. Yet, the current landscape of bourbon has changed so we're in for another wild ride in 2024!

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about drinking too much water.
Our 2024 Predictions. Sorry, no spoilers.
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Whiskey Quickie: Little Book Chapter 7: In Retrospect Whiskey Review Jan 09, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Little Book Chapter 7: In Retrospect Whiskey. This non-age stated whiskey is 118.1 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.

Behind The Pursuit: New Faces at Pursuit Spirits Jan 05, 2024

Subscribe to Behind The Pursuit: From Bourbon to Brand

We’ve talked for awhile now that as we’ve been bringing people in for tastings and experiences at the distillery, and it has been an amazing time to bring people in, that Kenny and Ryan have lead all those experiences. As fun as that is, it isn’t scalable to the business for that to always take place and we needed people to be an extension of Kenny and Ryan. People who can speak on their behalf, know the product, and can show folks a great time when they visit.

As a fan suggestion to the podcast, today we are going to meet the new additions to the crew: Joe, Sarah, and Tim. There are so many directions we went with this episode, so don’t miss a minute of it.

We hit on:

What is everyone’s back story?
How did everyone get into the industry?
What led you to bourbon specifically?
What does it look like to go through the University of Louisville’s Distilled Spirits program?
How does Joe feel about being the most advanced Cicerone in Kentucky?
Is there something about the brand, the guys, or the whiskey that surprised you about Pursuit Spirits?

and much more.

Be sure to visit pursuitspirits.com and click on Visit Us to book a tasting or barrel selection experience. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at podcast@pursuitspirits.com.

443 - The Current State of Collecting Whiskey with Nate Gana Jan 04, 2024

There was a huge buying frenzy during the pandemic, but where is the secondary market of bourbon headed? We saw a huge boom and that bubble is starting to deflate a bit. Nata Gana originally started as a whiskey-focused Instagram account and worked directly with brands, but has since evolved into a writer covering the entire spirits industry and has also began curating his own sample packs out in the market called Bevridge. As secondary whiskey market values skyrocketed the past decade, iconic bottles like Pappy Van Winkle became difficult to obtain, yet seem poised to stall. Nate gives his opinion on the state of collecting and what allocated bottles are worth the chase and where he sees the bottom falling out.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about present day prohibition on our economy.
How did you initially monetize your Instagram account?
Are the guidelines changing for how brands have to interact with influencers?
When did the transition change from Instagram to bring a writer?
What is your philosophy on collecting and holding to sell versus flipping?
What is the current state of the secondary market and will it rebound to where it was?
Will Pappy Van Winkle sustain its current value?
What whiskey category do you think has room to grow in value?
Talk about your Bevridge sample packs.
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Whiskey Quickie: Michter's Toasted Barrel Finish Rye Whiskey (2023) Review Jan 02, 2024

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Michter's Toasted Barrel Finish Rye Whiskey. This non-age stated rye is 108.9 proof and $120 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!
DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

TWiB: Marianne Eaves Sues Castle & Key, RD1 Spirits Plans A New Location, A Look Back on 2023 Dec 29, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for December 29th 2023. Marianne Eaves is suing Castle & Key, RD1 Spirits in Lexington has announced plans to build a new location, and a look back on 2023.
Show Notes:

Anthony Dias Blue, founder of the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, has passed
Marianne Eaves is suing Castle & Key
Algoma Capital has closed a strategic transaction with Off Hours Bourbon
Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company joins the KDA
A new lawsuit against the federal ban on at-home distilling
Federal tobacco regulators ban Luckee Vape Daniels branded products
RD1 Spirits in Lexington has announced plans to build a new location.
Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Single Batch Series: Batch 035: Centenary Cask
Very Olde St. Nick Winter Maple
Look back on our biggest accomplishments this year
@mariannebmd @castleandkey @drinkoffhours @lawrenceburgbourbon @rd1spirits @chattwhiskey @preservationdistillery
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442 - Basil to Booker's and Building a Global Brand with Tim Heuisler of Jim Beam Dec 28, 2023

Becoming a global brand ambassador for a major spirits company like Jim Beam involves building close relationships throughout the three-tier distribution system and constantly adapting branding and marketing as consumer tastes evolve. We invited Tim Heuiseler on the show. He's gone from the behind the bar to traveling globe as a Brand Ambassador to preach the gospel of Jim Beam's small batch portfolio. We talk about how their offerings span everything from lower-proof introductory with Basil Hayden to the powerhouse that is Booker's and how to deliver that message consistently. In addition, he takes note of competitor innovations and emerging drink trends so they can launch new marquee expressions like Hardin's Creek to stay ahead of the game.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the length of decanted whiskey.
How does one become a global brand ambassador?
How much is involved in building relationships in the three tier system?
Does the branding strategy change as consumer habits change?
At what point does a brand have enough steam and you have to pivot and focus on a certain product?
When you go international, how do you change a culture to adopt bourbon when they focus on other spirits?
Is Basil Hayden your introductory whiskey for everyone?
How do you replicate Fred and Freddie Noe into your own presentation?
What does "small batch" mean to Jim Beam?
Why get into single malt?
When is the next Booker's Rye coming?
If you see a competitor coming out with something new how do you report that back?
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Whiskey Quickie: Jack Daniel's Twice Barreled Special Release Heritage Tennessee Rye Review Dec 26, 2023

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Jack Daniel's Twice Barreled Special Release Heritage Tennessee Rye. This non-age stated rye is 100 proof and $75 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!
DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

TWiB: Almost 3 Barrels For Every Person in Kentucky, EU SuspendsTariffs on American Whiskey, New Record Set for Bourbon at Auction Dec 22, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for December 22nd 2023. There's almost 3 barrels for every 1 person aging in Kentucky, the EU suspends the tariffs on American whiskey, and a new record has been set for unicorn whiskeys.
Show Notes:

There's almost 3 barrels for every 1 person aging in Kentucky
Les Fugate earns Esprit de Corps Award
Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails moves production facilities
The EU suspends the tariffs on American whiskey
The Paddock Bourbon Club opens in Lexington
A new record has been set for unicorn whiskeys
Lazy K Bar Whiskey with Cole Hauser
@kentuckybourbontrail @brownforman @jackdaniels_us @paddockbarlex @lazykbarwhiskey
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441 - Engineering a Rickhouse with Buzick Construction Dec 21, 2023

We've all been driving through bourbon country and been amazed at the rickhouses that paint the country side. But what goes into building and engineering those? Buzick Construction has a long family history in the whiskey business, with their family building multiple rickhouses for Jack Daniel's. Today, the average size of a rickhouse is 50,000 barrels, presenting engineering challenges compared to older 20,000 barrel ones in terms of weight load, airflow, and temperature control. We brought their President, Donald Blincoe, and chief engineer, Kevin Aldred, on the show to talk about what goes into building a rickhouse. We talk about different wood types, exterior materials, precise airflow design needs and humidity considerations. We also dive into the costs because a rickhouse run into the millions these days. Overall, Buzick has been the name in construction around Bardstown and has a reputation in these time-honored warehouses.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about food and whiskey pairing
Talk about the history of Buzick Construction
How many rickhouses did your great grandfather build for Jack Daniel's?
Do you have a patent on the ricking system?
What's the average size of rickhouse today?
How did the engineering change when going from 20,000 to 50,000 barrel rickhouses?
Do you have to defend your plans to local governments and municipalities?
What options do you have when building such as wood types?
What's the usual cost for building a rickhouse?
How do you design for airflow?
Do you have to go into older buildings and modernize them?
What is the preferred exterior material to use now?
Does creating a heat controlled warehouse interfere with natural flow?
Have there been any crazy requests for rickhouses like a smart rickhouse?
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Whiskey Quickie: Southern Star Paragon Single Barrel Cask Strength Wheated Bourbon Review Dec 19, 2023

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Southern Star Paragon Single Barrel Cask Strength Wheated Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 113.3 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.

TWiB: Pursuit Spirits Is Open For Public Tours, Heaven’s Door Joins the KDA, Old Forester117 Scotch Cask Finish Dec 15, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for December 15th 2023. Pursuit Spirits is officially open for public tours, Heaven’s Door joins the Kentucky Distillers Association and Old Forester is releasing the newest 117 series Scotch Cask Finish.
Show Notes:

TikTok Live Featuring Kevin of Bourbon Notes and Pursuit United
Give 270 launches 20/20 Unicorn
Matt Porter becomes Master Blender at Barrel King
Heaven’s Door Distillery joins KDA
Pursuit Spirits is officially open for public tours
Old Forester 117 Scotch Cask Finish
Milam and Greene White-Tailed Buck Single Barrel Bourbon
A. Smith Bowman Distillery Cask Strength Virginia Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Empirical x Doritos Nacho Cheese Spirit
@pursuitspirits @adhdwhiskey @barrelkingbourbon @heavensdoorwhiskey @oldforster @milamandgreenewhiskey @a.@smithbowman @empiricalph @doritos
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440 - Why Don't Acquired Brands Get Consumer Blowback and 2023 Predictions Review on Bourbon Community Roundtable #88 Dec 14, 2023

It's the final Bourbon Community Roundtable of the year it's number 88. In typical fashion we have two topics. First is wondering why there isn't a consumer blowback when a brand gets acquired. It happens all the time in beer when a small craft brand is gobbled up by a large corporation and there is a small piece that dies. In the second half of the show we revisit our 2023 predictions to see who got it right and who got it wrong.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the expiration date of whiskey
Why is there never consumer blowback when a bourbon brand get acquired?
Let's review our 2023 predictions
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Whiskey Quickie: Angel's Envy Cask Strength Rye Whiskey Review Dec 12, 2023

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Angel's Envy Cask Strength Straight Rye Whiskey Finished in Sauternes and Toasted Oak Barrels. This finished rye is 114.4 proof and $270 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.

TWiB: Maker's Mark Fills Certified Regenified Barrel, Blue Run 12 Days of Bourbon Series, Pursuit United Bourbon Batch 11CD Dec 08, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for December 8th 2023. Maker's Mark has filled its first Certified Regenified barrel of whisky, Blue Run is back with it's 12 Days of Bourbon series, and Pursuit United Bourbon Batch 11CD.
Show Notes:

American whiskey is staring down a 50 percent tax when sent to Europe
Maker's Mark has filled its first Certified Regenified barrel of whisky
Woodford Reserve is creating a sensorial experience at Istanbul International Airport
Rabbit Hole Distillery announced the release of Amburana
Chattanooga Whiskey is INTRODUCING: THE VAULT SERIES
Pursuit United Bourbon Batch 11CD
Milam & Greene Whiskey releases The Castle Hill Batch Three
Wheel Horse Cigar Blend Bourbon
Two limited distillery-only offerings of Very Olde St. Nick whiskeys
Samuel Maverick Straight Triticale Whiskey Bottled-In-Bond
Puncher’s Chance THE UNIFIED BELT
Wilderness Trail Distillery’s 10th Anniversary limited-edition 10-Year-Old Wheated Bourbon
Blue Run is back with it's 12 Days of Bourbon series
Rebel Small Batch Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Three Chord Bourbon Backstage Series
@makersmark @woodfordreserve @rabbithole @chattwhiskey @milamandgreenewhiskey @wheelhorsewhiskey @veryoldestnick @maverickdistilling @wildernesstrail @bluerunspirits @rebelbourbon @threechordbourbon
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439 - Celebrating 10 Years of Barrell Craft Spirits with Joe Beatrice and Tripp Stimson Dec 07, 2023

Seagrass, Dovetail, Vantage, these are all names that we immediately associate to Barrell Bourbon. I'm excited to bring back two guests on the show, Joe Beatrice and Tripp Stimson, to talk about hitting their 10 year anniversary. Joe and Tripp reflect on their early vision for the company and how it's evolved from figuring out budgets and spending, learning from early batches, and how their decision to not follow the bourbon playbook of building a brand has been a success for them. We talk about expanding their facilities with a new rickhouse, reading consumer habits and trends, where the company will be next, and even Amburana. It's a fascinating look at the past decade and future vision of this fast-growing brand.
Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the difference between sourcing and contract distilling?
10 years ago, what was your vision for the company and how has that changed?
What was your budget and figuring out where to spend the money?
What the early feedback with those initial pitches and sourcing?
Has the consumer switched from chasing states to chasing flavor?
Did anyone tell you that going with cask strength was a bad idea?
What have you learned from Batch 001 and do you feel the product has gotten better over time?
How do you look at consumer habits and plan accordingly?
Why did you come up with the derived mash bill?
What is it about Amburana that you like or that can benefit in your blends?
What are your new facilities like?
Talk about the Yellowstone rickhouse you purchased?
What does the next 10 years look like for you all?
Do you feel like like your model is a hard target for an acquisition?
@barrellbourbon
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Whiskey Quickie: Bardstown Bourbon Company Discovery Series #11 Bourbon Review Dec 05, 2023

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

TWiB: Potential Bourbon Complex Hits The Market, Frazier History Museum Exhibits Spirited Design, Fall 2023 Edition of Old Fitzgerald Dec 01, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for December 1st 2023. Potential site for ‘bourbon complex’ hits the market in Shively, the Frazier History Museum is opening a special holiday exhibition Spirited Design featuring Old Forester’s Mid-Century Decanters, and Heaven Hill Distillery announced the release of the Fall 2023 edition of Old Fitzgerald.
Show Notes:

Owensboro 21 pallets of bourbon that were reported missing have been located
Potential site for ‘bourbon complex’ hits the market in Shively
The Frazier History Museum is opening a special holiday exhibition called Spirited Design: Old Forester’s Mid-Century Decanters
Buzzard’s Roost Repeal Day Event
Four Roses bourbon has launched its first-ever consumer advertising campaign
The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board warns about fakes
Commissioners of the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission reviewed changes to the agency's Chance to Purchase program
Heaven Hill Brands announces two company facilities received the EPA’s first-ever ENERGY STAR certification
The Kentucky Bourbon Trail received a Gold Traverse for its "Book Now, Bourbon Later" digital marketing campaign
Old Forester is releasing the rarest bottle it has ever produced – a decanter to honor the brand’s 150th anniversary
Castle & Key Distillery and Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild (KBBG release of The Untold Story of Kentucky Whiskey, Chapter 3
Broken Barrel Whiskey Co. has introduced Honey Smoke Reserva
Jack Harlow joined forces with Knob Creek
Jack Daniel Distillery introduces Distillery Series Selection #12, a Straight Tennessee Whiskey Finished in Oloroso Sherry Casks
Fall 2023 edition of Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey at 8 years old
@frazierhistorymuseum @oldforester @buzzardsroostwhiskey @heavenhillbrands @heavenhilldistillery @kentuckybourbontrail @castleandkey @_kbbg_ @brokenbarrelwhiskey @jackharlow @knobcreek @jackdaniels_us
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438 - What is Over, Under, and Properly Rated? Nov 30, 2023

We rate bourbons all the time. But we've never really rated things that surround the product and the bourbon culture. In this episode, Ryan, Fred, and myself look at a bunch of subjects and ask whether it's under rated, over rated, or properly rated. From single barrel picks to bourbon-themed weddings, there's a lot to cover. We'll break down whether booker's boxes and wax dipping are gimmicks or genuinely enhance the experience. And what about all those whiskey influencers on YouTube, Instagram and Tiktok - are they spreading valuable knowledge or just hype? We'll also discuss whether tasting notes and bottled-in-bond really mean anything and if the Fred Minnick effect is real.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about taters and hype around allocated products.
Under rated? Over Rated? Or Properly Rated?
Single Barrel picks
A single barrel bottle from a brand
Spirit awards
Booker's boxes
Wax
Whiskey YouTube'rs
Instagram and TikTok
Bourbon tattoos
Distillery weddings
Bourbon barrel furniture
Cooking with bourbon
bottled in bond
Tasting notes
The Fred Minnick Effect
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Whiskey Quickie: King of Kentucky 2023 Bourbon Review Nov 28, 2023

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

Behind The Pursuit: The Good & Gather of the Bourbon Trail Nov 24, 2023

Subscribe to Behind The Pursuit: From Bourbon to Brand

We’ve been up and running at the distillery for several weeks now. We’ve processed barrels, worked on blends, we’ve had friends and family and Patreon members in to help us iron out the experience that will soon be open to the public. While we recently had Kenny talk with us about the process to getting the distillery open, now we want to talk the fun part: what we have to show everyone.

Join us today as we talk with the guys about what to expect from the soon-to-open bottle your own experience here at Pursuit HQ.

We hit on:

Will the experience always be led by Kenny and/or Ryan?
Will it be a walk up location, or reservation only?
What are you wanting guests to be able to experience here that may be unlike other distillery experiences?
How has the experience been shaped with early practice? What have you learned in those first pilot tours?
What has been the most common feedback you’ve received so far?

and much more.

For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at podcast@pursuitspirits.com.

437 - How To Build A Non-Legacy Brand with Johnathan Crocker of Frank August Nov 23, 2023

Let's say you want to start a new bourbon brand but you don't have generations of family heritage or an existing legacy to promote. So how do you get consumers to try something new instead of reverting to something like putting horses or barns on the labels? Branding today seems to require more storytelling than focusing just on the whiskey. One modern brand trying to break that mold is Frank August. I invited their CEO and Co-Founder, Johnathan Crocker on the show to talk about navigating this challenge and how they are reinventing branding in a crowded bourbon market without relying on a legacy. They're focused on creating an authentic modern brand that resonates with consumers. It's an interesting case study on building a bourbon brand from scratch in today's industry.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about will the bourbon boom ever end?
How did you get tied into whiskey and with Drew at Willett?
Why create a new bourbon brand during COVID?
How do you see yourself and brand fitting into this industry?
What does the name Frank August mean?
At what point does it feel like overthinking vs simple strategy?
Would a consumer just like to buy a bottle with a horse on it instead of new labels?
Does a brand have to speak directly to a specific demographic or can brands adapt?
Historical brands like Old Forester and Heaven Hill sourced their whiskey at first so how did they adapt?
Can you change the mindset of a whiskey drinker away from the staples like a horse or a barn?
Do you have to talk about the story instead of the whiskey?
Are any legacy brands that have successfully pivoted to tell a new story?
@thefrankaugust
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Whiskey Quickie: 2023 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC) Review Nov 21, 2023

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

TWiB: Bourbon Stolen From Glenmore Distillery, Gem of Kentucky, Michter’s Drops a 25 Year Old Bourbon Nov 17, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for November 17th 2023. There was an attempt to reroute 21 pallets of bourbon from the Glenmore Distillery, Dixon Dedman releases Gem of Kentucky, and Michter’s is dropping a 25 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon.
Show Notes:

Allied Market Research new report on bourbon growth
Owensboro Police Department says there was an attempt to reroute 21 pallets of bourbon from the Glenmore Distillery
10th Anniversary of the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience
J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery opened its distillery in Frankfort
Lost Lantern opens a tasting room
15 recipients of the American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund grants
Conecuh Ridge Distillery is planning for a May 2024 opening
KY state lawmakers being pushed for self-distribution
Dread River Distilling Co. is releasing Master Series Batch 2
Dixon Dedman proudly presents Gem of Kentucky
291 Colorado Whiskey’s three new limited releases
Westward Whiskey Milestone
Great Lakes Distillery will be releasing its Still & Oak Black Friday Bourbon
Frey Ranch American Single Malt Smoked Whiskey
HIRSCH Selected Whiskeys debuts the third edition of The Single Barrel and the second edition of The Single Barrel Double Oak
Dickel Bourbon Aged 18 Years
Michter’s 25 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon
@alliedmarketresearch @evanwilliamsbourbon @jmattingly1845 @lostlantern @westwardwhiskey @greatlakesdistillery @freyranch @michterswhiskey @lostlanternwhiskey @clydemayswhiskey @2xowhiskey @dixon_dedman
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436 - Is Big Bourbon Just Better? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #87 Nov 16, 2023

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

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about mocktails
Is big bourbon just better than everything else?
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Whiskey Quickie: Still Austin Red Corn Bourbon Whiskey Review Nov 14, 2023

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

Behind The Pursuit: Pursuit United Private Select Nov 10, 2023

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Pursuit United Private Selection is here. We previously talked with Kenny about turning the warehouse into a functioning distillery, but now that we’re up and running it is time to get liquid to lips. On today’s episode both Kenny and Ryan are on discussing what the PUPS program looks like for stores and groups as well as in-person experiences and what you may expect.

We hit on:

What was the genesis in how you started thinking about a private selection process?
With your model of sourcing for Pursuit United with the different states and mash bills, how did that fold into the PUPS concept?
We initially talked about doing a micro batch program for barrel selection, what were some of the flaws in this system which made you pivot to something different?
Will there be offerings for both full barrel selection as well as a bottle-your-own experience?
After your first in-person selection/tasting, did you identify things that you know you’ll need to change or do differently in the future?

and much more.

For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at podcast@pursuitspirits.com.

435 - Sourcing Exotic Barrels with Jessica Ann of H&A Barrel Management Nov 09, 2023

The trend of cask finished whiskey is here to stay. It's run rampant over the past few years to the point that every single company has one. But how are barrels sourced? How many times can a barrel be used before it longer gives off those different flavors? To answer these questions and a lot more, I've invited Jessica Ann from H&A Barrel Management on the show. We've had the pleasure of knowing Jessica for many years. She recently got herself into the market of brokering barrels for different cask finishes. Jessica gives us the low-down on wine and exotic oak finishes and how difficult they can be to attain. There's a lot to break down such as types of oak, toast level, and if cooperage reputation has any prestige. With the wide variety available, we're going to see even more trends hit the market soon.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks if Pappy is a NDP.
How did you and Fred connect?
How many times can a barrel be used for wine aging?
Why is French Oak the preferred type for wine?
If I need barrels, what do you have readily available?
What does STR mean?
How are different barrels valued?
How many times can those barrels be re-used?
In the used barrel market are there cooperages that have more prestige?
What are some of the newest barrels people want that aren't common?
Do customer's ever request different toast and char levels?
How do you properly read a wine barrel?
Talk about your barrel leasing program.
How do you find out about the various oak species available?
@bourboninsider
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Whiskey Quickie: Dragon's Milk Origin Bourbon Review Nov 07, 2023

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Dragon's Milk Origin Bourbon. This 5 year old bourbon is 95 proof and $45 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!

DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

TWiB: New Distillery Will Age Barrels in Coal Mines, Rabbit Hole Releases Seasong, Buffalo Trace Distillery Releases Eagle Rare 25 Nov 03, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for November 11th 2023. A new distillery is coming that is aging barrels in coal mines, Rabbit Hole Distillery announced the release of Seasong, and Buffalo Trace Distillery today announces the release of Eagle Rare 25.
Show Notes:

A new distillery is coming that is aging barrels in coal mines
Rabbit Hole Distillery announced the release of Seasong
Hard Truth Distilling Co. announced the release of Barrel Finished Reserve
Wild Turkey has released a new whiskey that combines three generations of Bourbon making. The launch of Generations
Proof & Wood Ventures has launched The Cabinet
Buffalo Trace Distillery today announces the release of Eagle Rare 25
@rabbithole @hardtruthspirits @wildturkey @proofandwood @buffalotrace @buffalotracedistillery @brotherswrightdistillingco
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434 - Creating Legal and Sustainable Bourbon Charity Raffles with Give270 Nov 02, 2023

Bourbon and charity go hand-in-hand. There has been millions of dollars raised thanks to donations and the willingness of others to purchase for a good cause. However, doing it legally is not an easy task. I invited Eric Clements and Kenny Rambo of Give 270 on the show to talk about being legit. They started Give270 by raffling rare bourbons in Elizabethtown, Kentucky to raise money for local charities. Their mission is to make participation affordable and fun through bourbon raffles. This model has proven successful, but required getting licensed for charitable gaming. The founders discuss how they transitioned from a 501C3 nonprofit to operating legally, as well as how they source rare bourbons, select beneficiary charities, do real paper raffles, and handle taxes. While rewarding, they note challenges in navigating regulations and finding inventory amidst secondary market demand.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about single barrels not being regulated.
Why did you all want to start doing alcohol reform in Elizabethtown, KY?
What was the mission behind Give270?
Do you feel the success of raffles are because of the secondary market?
How did you move from a 501C3 to getting a charitable gaming license?
Does the pool get bigger by having a raffle versus an auction?
Do you really cut up names on a piece of paper and put them in a tumbler?
Has there ever been a situation where you are underwater on a raffle?
How do you discover and choose the charities you work with?
What are the biggest challenges of trying to do all this the legal way?
Are people letting you buy from their private collections?
What sort of taxes are involved?
Is there anything about the current system you would change?
@give270
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Whiskey Quickie: Thirteenth Colony Southern Bourbon Review Oct 31, 2023

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

TWiB: Bardstown Bourbon's New Spot In Louisville, Frank August Has Two New Releases, Knob Creek Releases A Skillet Collaboration Oct 27, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 27th 2023. Bardstown Bourbon Company’s new tasting experience is now open in Louisville, Frank August has two new releases, and Knob Creek releases a skillet collaboration
Show Notes:

The Federal Trade Commission brings Total Wine & More into the Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits investigation
Ky ABC threatens Doc Crow’s Southern Smokehouse & Raw Bar
Bardstown Bourbon Company’s new tasting experience is now open in Louisville
2023 DtC Report shows more people want craft spirits shipped
Flag Hill Distillery Releases New Hampshire’s First 10-Year-Old Bourbon
Frank August has two new releases
Michael Buble announces the launch of Fraser & Thompson
Knob Creek partners with Smithey Ironware
The Hardin’s Creek Kentucky Series
@@totalwine @@doccrows @@bardstownbourbonco @@flag_hill @@fraserandthompson @@knobcreek @@thefrankaugust
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433 - Lessons in Building an E-Commerce Bourbon Business with Blake Riber of Seelbach's Oct 26, 2023

Today's guest is no stranger to the show. We've had the privelege of knowing Blake Riber of Seelbach's for many years. However, before he had Seelbach's he was a past guest on episode 007 when he was running one of the premier bourbon blogs on the internet called bourbonr. I wanted to invite Blake on the show to talk about the past few years because building an e-commerce business on bourbon, is no easy task. We talk about legal licensing, his first Purchase orders, and being scrappy by growing into his warehouses. Now he helps kickstart brands' success by giving them an online presence. He finds new customers through content marketing and builds loyalty through customer service. It's a story about passion, knowledge, and a little bit of luck.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) asks if barrel proof will last in the bottle over time
Are you going to give us an updated shirtless picture we can use on our website?
What opportunity presented itself to go from a blogger to a whiskey e-commerce business?
What was some of those early hurdle of getting people to order online?
How are you finding new customers?
What legal hurdles have been the toughest to overcome?
Can you share what your warehousing situation was like versus today?
Is it gratifying to look back and think about what's like to help kickstart some brand's success?
How do you figure out inventory management and the challenges of doing this on e-commerce versus brick and morter?
Were you searching for brands or are brands coming to you now to have that online retail presence?
How are you trying to connect the brands and the consumers?
How are you building customer loyalty?
Can you share your initial investment to get your licenses and first POs to get your first sales?
Are you see a trade down with de-premiumization and how consumers are shifting?
What does growth look like now?
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Whiskey Quickie: Rare Hare Lucky Bastard Whiskey Review Oct 24, 2023

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

TWiB: The Whiskey House Announces Its Opening Date, American Whiskey Exports Could Face a 50% Tariff, King of Kentucky Returns With a 16YR Release Oct 20, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 20th 2023. The Whiskey House announces its operation date, American Whiskey exports could face a 50% tariff soon, and King of Kentucky is returning this year with the release of its sixth edition.
Show Notes:

The Whiskey House announces its operation date
The 10 most-consumed alcoholic drinks in the world
Burglars used tractor trailers to steal more than $1.6 million worth of alcohol from Republic National Distributing Company
BAXUS has announced the launch of its whiskey and wines marketplace
It's Bourbon Night announces the first ever BIG Bourbon Night
American Whiskey Exports Could face a 50% tariff soon
Pinhook Artist Series No. 3 Double Blended Bourbon
Laws Whiskey House Special Finish Series release: Honey Cask Finished Bourbon
Barrell Foundation Bourbon
Booker’s Batch 2023-03 Mighty Fine Batch
New Riff dual release of two 8-year-old whiskeys
Woodford Reserve 2023 Master’s Collection release - Sonoma Triple Finish
King of Kentucky is returning this year with the release of its sixth edition
@rndcusa @baxus.@co @itsbourbonnight @pinhook_bourbon @lawswhiskey @barrellbourbon @newriff @woodfordreserve
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432 - Is the Daily Drinker Dead? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #86 Oct 19, 2023

Is the daily drinker dead? I take this roundtable into the direction of deep thoughts once again. At some point in our bourbon journey, someone has asked you "what's your go to?" and maybe you had an answer, but today you may be uncertain about it. I ask everyone on the roundtable if we're living in the golden age of american whiskey and if they feel there's too many options on the shelf to be living in the bubble of only a few bottles.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about bourbon legislation.
Is the daily drinker dead?
Are we living in the golden age of American Whiskey?
How do you break away from the daily drinker?
@breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr
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Whiskey Quickie: Elijah Craig Ryder Cup Toasted Barrel Bourbon Review Oct 17, 2023

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

TWiB: The Buffalo Trace Antique Collection Details, New World Record Set for Most Bourbon Bottles, Spend The Night in a Bourbon Barrel Oct 13, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 13th 2023. The Buffalo Trace Antique Collection details have been announced, a new world record has been set for the most bourbon bottles at a bar , and you can spend the night in a bourbon barrel
Show Notes:

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

New Riff has been a brand that many whiskey enthusiasts have followed for many years. I was excited to have Jay Erisman on the show, once again, to talk about his vision for New Riff. Jay came into the industry with no production experience but learned the ropes quickly. Under the guise of Ken Lewis, New Riff put a focus on unique grain experimentation over finishes. Over time, that itch for curiosity has built famous releases based on heirloom grains and a brand new vision for single malt. Through collaborations with farmers and consumers, New Riff has charted its own adventure in the spirits world

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about nosing high proof spirits.
Can you tell everyone again about how you got started at The Party Source and New Riff?
Do you remember doing private Van Winkle picks?
How did Ken Lewis impact today's retail of beverage alcohol?
How did you get smart real quick on running a distillery with no background?
What brands inspired you to figure out what your whiskey was going to be?
Did you make a bet on grain experimentation vs finishes?
Have your batches been all luck or have there been some duds?
Does New Riff have a higher educated consumer fanbase?
Did you all try to embrace the single barrel fad?
What's the thought process behind the single malt project?
Did you learn anything from the Kentucky regimine of heirloom varieties?
@newriff
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Whiskey Quickie: Very Olde St. Nick Immaculata Ancient Cask Bourbon Review Oct 10, 2023

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

Behind The Pursuit: Non-Distilling Producers Vs Contract Distilling Oct 06, 2023

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There can be a lot of confusion when it comes to the term 'NDP' or Non-Distilling Producer and a producer who makes contract distilling purchases. Both are, in essence, buying whiskey instead of making whiskey, but what other factors are at play to separate these two?

We hit on:

What does the sourced market inventory pool generally look like?
What is the largest hurdle for brands at the mercy of the sourced market?
What does it look like for a brand to use either model long-term?
What has it looked like for brands that have started in the sourced market and pivoted to their own distilling or contract distilling?
For someone who does rely on contract distillation, are there concerns with expansions, buyouts, brands going in different directions etc. from those who are producing whiskey for them and those implications to your brand?
How do you differentiate your brand from others when so many have access to, essentially, the same base product?

and much more.

For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at podcast@pursuitspirits.com.

430 - Has the Bourbon Glut Arrived? with Jeremy Dever Oct 05, 2023

At this point, if you've been listening to the show then you know there is a whole world of investor barrels and there is plenty of talk about a bourbon bubble burst and market saturation. For that reason, I've invited Jeremy Dever on the show. I've known Jeremy for a few years and he's a wealth of knowledge and has a pulse on the market. He got his start working with Steve Thompson at Kentucky Artisan Distillery and transitioned to brokering barrels for investors without brands. We discuss barrel values, overproduction issues, and if now is a good time to launch a new brand or if it's too late. It's a reality check for many people because the modern day bourbon glut may have arrived.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about leading a quick bourbon tasting.
How did you meet Steve Thompson and get into the spirits business?
What was your role at Kentucky Artisan Distillery?
At what point did you get into the barrel brokering market?
What do investors with barrels do when they don't have brands?
What is the benchmark for barrels when figuring out the value?
Should investors think about acquiring brands to sell the barrels?
Now are investor barrels being held on to wait for higher ages?
What are we going to do with overproduction and all the stillage?
Is the best time or the worst time to start a bourbon brand?
When will see the open barrel market start to level out?
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Whiskey Quickie: Old Forester 2023 Birthday Bourbon Review Oct 03, 2023

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

TWiB: Buffalo Trace's Prohibition Collection, Wyoming Whiskey Has Two New Releases, Chattanooga Releases Another Bottled in Bond Sep 29, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for September 29th 2023. Buffalo Trace unveils the Prohibition Collection, Wyoming Whiskey has two new releases, and Chattanooga Whiskey releases their Bottled in Bond Vintage Series Fall 2019
Show Notes:

River Roots Barrel Company opens for business
Avalon Spirits has acquired Whiskey Row Bourbon
Are you passionate about distillation and looking for a new role? Check out the ADI Job Board
Buffalo Trace unveiled the Prohibition Collection
Wyoming Whiskey has two new releases
FEW Spirits and Alice In Chains announce All Secrets Known Bourbon
RY3 Cask Strength Cigar Series
Still Austin Whiskey Co. Bottled in Bond spirit: High Rye Bourbon
TINCUP Fourteener Bourbon Whiskey
Chattanooga Whiskey Bottled in Bond Vintage Series: Fall 2019
@riverrootsbarrelco @buffalotracedistillery @wyomingwhiskey @fewspirits @stillatx @tincupwhiskey @chattwhiskey
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429 - Demystifying Labels and Standing Out in a Crowded Market with Kris Hart Sep 28, 2023

The bourbon boom has sparked intense interest in America's native spirit, but has also raised complex questions for longtime aficionados and novices alike. With so many new releases and labeling tactics, it can be difficult to discern what defines a quality bourbon. Producers walk a fine line between innovation and tradition, while consumers struggle to separate marketing hype from honest craftsmanship. To help me dive into a bunch of topics I've invited Kris Hart to be on the show. He's the co-creator of The Prideful Goat, an organizer for the Houston Whiskey Social, a contributing member of the Houston Bourbon Society and former guest on the show. We talk about balancing innovation with integrity because that are signs of disenchanting consumers in an increasingly crowded market. We touch on more fun TTB loopholes that I'm sure you will find interesting as well.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about getting the first sample to review.
Have you memorized the entire TTB manual?
How do you promote education without coming off critical?
Do you feel like today's new whiskey connoisseur doesn't know what good bourbon tastes like?
Why doesn't Four Roses do more special releases?
What happens to experiments that don't make it to market?
Is it possible to turn aged whiskey into bourbon?
How do we keep companies honest with the labels they are filing to match the whiskey?
How far have the rules been bent on bourbon?
Do you feel as a producer that you have to put names to your releases for differentiation?
Is adding coloring in scotch pretty common?
What's on the horizon for the prideful goat?
Have we seen more consumer burnout?
@whiskypete
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Whiskey Quickie: Four Roses 135th Anniversary Limited Edition Small Batch Bourbon Review Sep 26, 2023

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

TWiB: Rare Character Finds Itself In A Legal Battle, Buffalo Trace Opens AnExperience in London, Russell's Reserve Single Rickhouse Camp Nelson F Sep 22, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for September 22nd 2023. Rare Character Finds Itself In A Legal Battle, Buffalo Trace Opens A New Visitor Experience in London, and Russell's Reserve introduces Single Rickhouse Camp Nelson F.
Show Notes:

Rare Character Finds Itself In A Legal Battle
Tennessee Whiskey Trail is a top tourism destination
Illva Saronno Holding has purchased a majority of Sagamore Spirit
Chris Stapleton and Buffalo Traces will release Traveller Whiskey
Buffalo Trace Distillery announces the forthcoming opening of Buffalo Trace Distillery London
Medicinal Whiskey Charity is auctioning off a Willett barrel.
Lexington is an Official Gateway sponsor to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail
Rebel Bourbon finished in Cabernet Sauvignon barrels
Russell's Reserve Single Rickhouse Camp Nelson F
Four Gate Whiskey Company and Kelvin Cooperage 60th anniversary
BLACKENED x Rabbit Hole
Remus Gatsby Reserve 2023 Edition
Basil Hayden Malted Rye
@rarecharacterwhiskey @fortunabourbon @sagamorespirit @illvasaronno_holding @chrisstapleton @buffalotracedistillery @rebelbourbon @russellsreservebourbon @fourgatewhiskey @kelvin_cooperage @blackenedamericanwhiskey @rabbithole @kzrabbithole @whiskeyrob @remusbourbon @basilhayden
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428 - When Is It Too Much of One Bottle? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #85 Sep 21, 2023

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

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about ex-bourbon barrels.
When is it enough of the same bottle?
Why have 10 of the same thing?
Is it all for status?
Has your taste changed?
@breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr
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Whiskey Quickie: Parker’s Heritage Collection 17th Edition (2023) Review Sep 19, 2023

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

TWiB: Kentucky Owl Gets a New Master Blender, Pursuit United Private Select Program, And More Bourbon Releases Than You Can Handle Sep 15, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for September 15th 2023. Kentucky Owl gets a new Master Blender, Pursuit Spirits is unveiling the Pursuit United Private Select (PUPS) program, and more bourbon releases than you can handle.
Show Notes:

Southern Distilling Company partnership agreement with the Carolina Panthers
The Supreme Court of New York has denied Diageo’s motion to dismiss the lawsuit by Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs
Maureen Robinson has taken over blending duties from John Rhea for Kentucky Owl
The Speed Art Museum unveiled a stunning lineup for its Art of Bourbon
Pursuit Spirits is unveiling the Pursuit United Private Select (PUPS) program
Jack Daniel’s Bonded Rye Whiskey
Buzzard’s Roost 6 - Year Old Single Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon
Blade and Bow 22-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Copper & Kings Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Lost Lantern Fall 2023 Single Cask Collection
2XO American Oak and The Tribute Blend
Joe Montana announced a new partnership with The Gold Bar Spirits Company
Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Single Batch Series: Batch 033: Triple Peat
Hardin’s Creek Boston
Blue Run Spirits Reflection II
Barrell Bourbon Cask Finish Series
Barrell Craft Spirits' 10th Anniversary Bourbon
Bardstown Bourbon Company Collaborative Series finished in Goose Island Bourbon County Brand Stout barrels
@southerndistilling @kentuckyowl @speedartmuseum @pursuitspirits @jackdaniels_us @buzzardsroostwhiskey @bladeandbowwhiskey @copperandkings @lostlanternwhiskey @2xowhiskey @joemontana @goldbarwhiskey @chattwhiskey @bluerunspirits @barrellbourbon @bardstownbourbonco @gooseisland
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427 - The Lifecycle of Bourbon Trends Sep 14, 2023

The bourbon landscape has evolved dramatically over the past century, shaped by changing tastes, technologies, and regulations. In the 1970s and 80s, barrel proof options were limited due to higher taxes on high-proof spirits. Bourbon trends have ebbed and flowed, with favorites like maple finishes and honey cask maturation rising and falling in popularity. As innovation marches on, questions remain about what's next. Ryan, Fred, and myself discuss the nuanced offerings like cigar blends and amburana barrel-aged bourbons and if they will be fleeting fads or establish themselves as mainstays and if rye whiskeys and light whiskies already peaked in popularity. While some trends fade fast, broader consumer excitement for bourbons finished in unique barrels suggests the underlying whiskey geek curiosity for new flavors won't disappear anytime soon. However, core classic bourbon may regain flourish with consumers. With so many aging experiments underway, it's impossible to predict exactly how tastes will evolve. But one thing is clear - the bourbon landscape will continue its dynamic change.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the same bottle of bourbon tasting different.
Why wasn't there barrel proof options in the 70's and 80s?
Was bourbon taxed differently in the past?
Were there bourbon trends back in the 40s and 50s?
What does the lifecycle look like for finished whiskeys?
Will the honey cask finish trend continue?
Will whiskey geeks go back to drinking normal bourbon or is the everyday bourbon dead?
When do trends become mainstays?
What will happen to cigar blends?
Will Amburana barrels experience a quick death?
Will maple finish continue to be used?
Will American Single Malt have a long life?
Have we seen the end of light whiskey?
Has rye whiskey peaked?
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Whiskey Quickie: Wilderness Trail 8 Year Wheated Bourbon Review Sep 12, 2023

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

TWiB: $1M Bourbon Bottle Goes Up for Auction, Lawrenceburg Bourbon Announces New Distillery, Pursuit Spirits Unleashes Batch 8CD Sep 08, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for September 8th 2023. A $1M bottle of bourbon goes up for auction, Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company has announced a multi-million-dollar distillery, and Pursuit Spirits unleashes batch 8CD.
Show Notes:

Wenzel Whiskey joins the The Kentucky Distillers’ Association
A $1M bottle of bourbon goes up for auction from Frigg N’ Digg N’ Antiques in Bowling Green
Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company has announced a multi-million-dollar distillery project
Holy City Brewing and Lewis Barbecue are partnering up to host the first annual MashFest
Exposing counterfeit techniques using Top Swaps
Filmland Spirits announces Town at the End of Tomorrow and Ryes of the Robots Extended Cut
Barrell Craft Spirits launches a gift box containing 100ml samples of its core Barrell products
Pursuit Spirits releases batch 8CD
@wenzel_whiskey @lawrenceburgbourbon @holycitybrewing @filmlandspirits @barrellbourbon @pursuitspirits
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426 - Insider Tips on Throwing a Bourbon Festival with Bourbon on the Banks and St. Louis Bourbon Festival Sep 07, 2023

At some point you will find yourself going to a bourbon festival. And rightly you should. It's where people like us gather to try new things and meet a like-minded community. On today's show, I've invited Diane Strong of Bourbon on the Banks and Drew Chostner of the St. Louis Bourbon Festival to come on the show to talk about throwing a bourbon festival that isn't always the same. The goal is to make this a truly engaging event for bourbon lovers by bringing together an exciting mix of upstart distilleries and big brands for tastings. We talk about including educational seminars and the overall format. But then we dive into the nitty gritty of things like city permitting, access to water, and how to calculate ticket prices for attendees.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about operations after a master distiller leaves.
What was your bourbon journey like?
Was the reason for the festival to cash flow other projects?
What are you trying to do to make your festival different than anything else?
What types or permits do you need?
Has the ABC ever showed up to one of your events?
What approach do you take to get brands to sponsor the festival?
Do you see attendees start venturing toward the startups vs the traditional distilleries?
How do you make sure the distilleries are engaged with attendees?
How do you promote responsibility?
Why would you want to include educational seminars?
How do you determine ticket prices for attendees?
@stlbourbonsociety @bourbononthebanks
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Whiskey Quickie: Traverse City Port Barrel Finish Bourbon Review Sep 05, 2023

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

TWiB: Two Groups Create The Blending House, Four Roses, Old Forester, Parker's and More, Food and Booze Collabs Sep 01, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for September 1st 2023. The Koetter Group and The Spirits Group announce The Blending House, we have all the announcements for Four Roses, Old Forester, Parker's Heritage and more, and even a few food collabs that will have you shaking your head.
Show Notes:

The Koetter Group and The Spirits Group collaborate on The Blending House
Algoma Capital launches $100M credit fund for the bourbon business
B.H. James Distillers joins the Kentucky Distillers’ Association
Survey released about harassment with women in whisky
Shaun White and High West collaborate
Budget airlines serving top shelf whiskey
Old Forester’s Birthday Bourbon
Rossville Union Bottled in Bond Straight Rye Whiskey
Michter’s Distillery will be releasing its US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish Rye
Westward x Ken's Artisan Sourdough Whiskey - 2023 Vintage Blend
Blue Run Spirits announced Trifecta
Little Book Chapter 7: "In Retrospect."
Wilderness Trail is releasing an 8YR wheated bourbon
Four Roses Bourbon announces it will launch its 135th Anniversary Limited Edition Small Batch
Good Girls star Matthew Lillard and more launch Find Familiar Spirits
Old Dominick will be releasing a series of Small Batch Bourbons
Remus Repeal Reserve Series VII Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Parker’s Heritage Collection
Eggo Waffles and Sugarlands Distilling Co
Dunkin’ Donuts is planning to launch a range of alcoholic ‘spiked’ iced teas and coffees
KFC and Dead Man’s Fingers release a spiced rum
@thekoettergroup @thespiritsgroup @burtonjameswhiskey @beckypaskin @shaunwhite @drinkhighwest @allegiant @oldforester @rossvilleunion @michterswhiskey @westwardwhiskey @kensartisan @bluerunspirits @beamgeneration8 @wildernesstraildistillery @fourrosesbourbon @matthewlillard @olddominick @remusbourbon @eggo_us @sugarlandshine @dunkin @kfc
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425 - Marianne Eaves Gets Real About Her New Bourbon Aug 31, 2023

After an impactful career at Brown-Forman, Marianne Eaves was ready for a new challenge which led her to join an exciting startup at Castle & Key. She departed ways with Castle & Key and focused on brand consulting but now her current focus is their new Forbidden release. I invited Marianne to come on the show to talk about her new projects. If you may recall from a previous This Week in Bourbon, we were confused about Forbidden because the press release left many questions unanswered. She takes the hot seat and provides some context and clarity around the name and even the price. We also talk about some malting and other distillation stuff as well because Fred is enamored with it.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about refreshing bourbon cocktails.
What have you been up to the past few years?
Why would you leave Brown Forman to go to a startup?
How has social media influenced who you are?
What are the challenges that women face in the industry?
How do you maintain confidence through criticism?
Why not get away from marketing being female-focused to just being a peer?
What blending projects do you currently have going on?
Why was the Forbidden press release so confusing?
What year did you start distilling at Bardstown Bourbon Company?
How did you all come up with the price point since it's so high?
What did you do to distill at Bardstown Bourbon Co when there is a whole team there?
@mariannebmd @eavesblind @forbiddenbourbon
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Whiskey Quickie: Michter's 10 Year Old Single Barrel Bourbon Review (2023) Review Aug 29, 2023

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

Behind The Pursuit: Can New Whiskey Brands Become a Lifestyle Brand? Aug 25, 2023

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Ryan is back from Redneck Riviera and his mind is burning wondering how or if whiskey brands can break into a lifestyle brand like we’ve seen brands like Yeti, High Noon, Stanley, etc. Is there still a place today for newer brands to break into that, or has Jack Daniels taken the only spot there is?

We hit on:

How do brands today make people feel?
Is Pappy simply a status symbol, or a lifestyle?
Does accessibility of a product come in to play to whether or not a brand could become a lifestyle brand?
What pushes the current brands into a lifestyle?
Does the effect of premiumization stunt the ability to be a lifestyle brand, or catapult it?

and much more.

For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at podcast@pursuitspirits.com.

424 - Why Promote Bottom Shelf and Average Whiskey? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #84 Aug 24, 2023

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

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about his parents.
Why do we keep promoting bottom shelf bourbons?
Who are we trying to convince to drink these bourbons?
What makes an average whiskey?
Should this audience care if it's just average whiskey?
@breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn
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Whiskey Quickie: Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Barrel Proof Rye Review Aug 22, 2023

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

TWiB: Elijah Craig European Oak For the 2023 Ryder Cup, Pernod Launches the Mary Dowling Whiskey Company, Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged Bourbon Aug 18, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for August 18th 2023. Elijah Craig release of its Toasted Barrel finished in European Toasted Oak Barrels. Pernod launches the Mary Dowling Whiskey Company, and Maker’s Mark brings out the double digit age statement with Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged Bourbon.
Show Notes:

Ukraine’s included Bacardi in the list of “Official sponsors of War”
Woodson Bourbon Whiskey announced a partnership with the Las Vegas Raiders and Allegiant Stadium
Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery completes its renovation at the Marathon Village whiskey distillery
Buffalo Wild Wings is introducing Bulleit Bourbon BBQ sauce
Elijah Craig is releases Limited-Edition Toasted Barrel finished in European Toasted Oak Barrels for the 2023 Ryder Cup
Graham McTavish has launched a new company called McTavish Spirits
Pernod launches the Mary Dowling Whiskey Company
WhistlePig FarmStock Beyond Bonded announced a wheat whiskey
Jack Daniel’s Twice Barreled Special Release Heritage Barrel Rye
The return of Baker’s 13 Year Old Single Barrel Bourbon
Wolves announces a limited allocation of Lot Two
Garrison Brothers Distillery releases the Laguna Madre 2023
Heaven Hill releases the Spring 2023 edition of Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond
Maker’s Mark debuts Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged Bourbon
Jefferson's releases Jefferson’s Tropics Aged in Humidity
@bacardi @woodsonwhiskey @nelsongreenbrier @bwwings @bulleit @elijahcraig @grahammctavish @pernodricard @marydowlingwhiskey @whistlepigwhiskey @jackdaniels_us, @wolveswhiskeyca @garrisonbros @heavenhilldistillery @makersmark @jeffersonsbourbon
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423 - Would Bourbon Be Popular Without Buffalo Trace? Aug 17, 2023

The bourbon boom of the last decade has seen many distilleries trying to create a consumer frenzy around their brands. But few have succeeded like Buffalo Trace. This cult-like following seemed to come out of nowhere, taking Buffalo Trace from a solid but unremarkable distillery to a whiskey giant. So I ask the question that was so graciously given to us by a former Above The Char submitter, would bourbon be popular without Buffalo Trace? Other Sazerac-owned brands like Eagle Rare and E.H. Taylor have also benefitted from the company's popularity. But is it all manufactured hype? Buffalo Trace insists they simply can't keep up with demand, yet they continually make headlines for holding back new releases. And all this frenzy has been created with minimal advertising. Whether it's real scarcity or strategic rationing, Buffalo Trace has created a thirst that no other bourbon company can match.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the end of bourbon hunting
What other bourbon companies were trying to get a consumer ground swell?
Why has the entire Buffalo Trace portfolio turned into something people chase?
Was Buffalo Trace ever on your radar?
Is this attributed to tying Weller to Pappy?
Did Buffalo Trace create a FOMO line to draw people in?
Are other brands benefiting from the Sazerac popularity?
Is there a scarcity play or do they really not have the stocks?
How are they making national headlines for not releasing bottles?
Where has Buffalo Trace advertised because it hasn't been much?
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Whiskey Quickie: Belfour Bourbon Finished in Texas Pecan Wood Review Aug 15, 2023

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Belfour Bourbon Finished in Texas Pecan Wood. This non-age stated finished bourbon is 92 proof and $85 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.

TWiB: Molson Coors Acquires Blue Run Spirits, Marussia Beverages Acquires Watershed Distillery, Maker's Mark Puts Out A 10 Year Teaser Aug 11, 2023

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
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422 - Keeping it Super Premium with Mark and Sherri Carter of Old Carter Aug 10, 2023

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
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Whiskey Quickie: Whiskey JYPSI Legacy Batch 001 The Journey Review Aug 08, 2023

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.

TWiB: Heaven Hill Fills Its 10 Millionth Barrel, Charlois Group Acquires Kelvin Cooperage, Legent Yamazaki Cask Finish Blend Aug 04, 2023

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
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421 - The Growth of Bourbon Tourism By The Numbers with Sean Higgins of Mint Julep Tours Aug 03, 2023

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
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Whiskey Quickie: Dancing Goat Distillery #003 Review Aug 01, 2023

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.

TWiB: Pursuit Spirits Will Be On Whiskey Row, Kentucky Bourbon Trail Adds 4 New Distilleries, Milam & Greene's Latest Wildlife Collection Jul 28, 2023

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
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420 - What's a Cigar Batch? and Finished Whiskeys as Special Releases on Bourbon Community Roundtable #83 Jul 27, 2023

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?
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Whiskey Quickie: Bluebird Days Whiskey Review Jul 25, 2023

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.

TWiB: Name The Still at Buzzard's Roost, MGP Will Close Its GNS Distillery in Kansas, Green River Full Proof Single Barrel Jul 21, 2023

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
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419 - Making Bourbon Big at Retail with Brad Williams of GoPuff Jul 20, 2023

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?
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Whiskey Quickie: Blackened x Wes Henderson Bourbon Finished in White Port Wine Casks Review Jul 18, 2023

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.

TWiB: Sazerac Wins Lawsuit Against Mini Weller Bottles, Evan Williams Launches Bourbon Bootcamp, New Riff Announces Sour Mash Single Malt Project Jul 14, 2023

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 Project
Show 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
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418 - Brand Mysticism with Aaron Goldfarb and Steven Grasse Jul 13, 2023

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?
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Whiskey Quickie: Yellowstone American Single Malt Whiskey Review Jul 11, 2023

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.

TWiB: Former Peerless Execs Start Eastern Light, Woodford Reserve and Emirates Plane Bottles, Wild Turkey Announces Master’s Keep Voyage Jul 07, 2023

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
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417 - Is Collectible Whiskey on the Decline? Jul 06, 2023

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
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Whiskey Quickie: Maker’s Mark BEP Bourbon Review Jul 04, 2023

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.

TWiB: Premiumization Is Losing Steam, 2023 Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame New Inductees, Booker’s Bourbon Apprentice Batch Jun 30, 2023

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
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416 - Who Needs $500 Bottles and Distillery Tasting Kits on Bourbon Community Roundtable #82 Jun 29, 2023

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
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Whiskey Quickie: Jefferson's Marian McLain Whiskey Review Jun 27, 2023

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.

TWiB: Refunds on Duties and Taxes For Export Bourbons, Four Roses To Sell Limited 10 Recipe Tasting Kit, Heaven's Door Releases The Next Decade Series Jun 23, 2023

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
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415 - The Story Behind Wyoming Whiskey with David DeFazio Jun 22, 2023

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
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Whiskey Quickie: New Riff Yellow Leaming Bourbon Review Jun 20, 2023

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.

TWiB: Jack Daniel's Wins in Court Decision vs Dog Toy, A New Documentary Featuring Empire Rye, Buffalo Trace Launches Daniel Weller Jun 16, 2023

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
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414 - The Problem with Bourbon Taxes and Law with Chad McCoy Jun 15, 2023

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?
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Whiskey Quickie: Wolves Lot One Single Malt Whiskey Review Jun 13, 2023

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.

TWiB: Virginia ABC Makes Changes to Lottery Process, 3rd Release of Russell's Reserve 13 Year, Launch of Hardin’s Creek The Kentucky Series Jun 09, 2023

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
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413 - How To Make a Whiskey RTD with Flavorman Jun 08, 2023

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?
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Whiskey Quickie: Old Forester Bourbon 117 Series Warehouse H Review Jun 06, 2023

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.

Behind The Pursuit: The Effects of Big Bourbon Jun 02, 2023

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 podcast@pursuitspirits.com.

412 - Will Penelope's Acquisition Lead to More MGP Buyouts? Could Ezra Brooks Work Today? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #81 Jun 01, 2023

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?
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Whiskey Quickie: Still Austin The Artist Straight Rye Whiskey Review May 30, 2023

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.

TWiB: Airbnb Picks Louisville As Top U.S. Destination, Virginia ABC Lottery Isn't So Random, Rabbit Hole’s Tenniel Double Oak Bourbon May 26, 2023

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 Tenniel
Show 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
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411 - The Most Traveled Man in Whiskey with Drew Hannush of Whiskey Lore May 25, 2023

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?
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Whiskey Quickie: Hirsch The Cask Strength Bourbon Finished in Cognac Casks Review May 23, 2023

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.

TWiB: Justins' House of Bourbon Charges Dropped, Log Still Launches Their Single Barrel Program, Jim Beam's American Single Malt Clermont Steep May 19, 2023

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
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410 - Lessons Learned From Building The Biggest Bourbon Bar with Josh Howes and Tommy Craggs of Watch Hill Proper May 18, 2023

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?
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Whiskey Quickie: Chicken Cock Double Oak Whiskey Review May 16, 2023

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.

TWiB: MGP Acquires Penelope Bourbon for $215M, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Changes Age Statement, Mark Brown Steps Down as CEO of Sazerac May 12, 2023

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
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409 - Are Cask Finishes Going to Follow The Craft Beer Craze? May 11, 2023

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?
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Whiskey Quickie: Kentucky Owl Bourbon Batch 12 Review May 09, 2023

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.

TWiB: New Riff's Two New Heirloom Bourbons, Buffalo Trace Experimental Peated Bourbon, Blue Run Spirits First Single Barrel Rye Whiskey May 05, 2023

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 Whiskey
Show 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
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408 - Single Rickhouse Bottlings and Fixing Single Barrel Saturation on Bourbon Community Roundtable #80 May 04, 2023

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
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Whiskey Quickie: Bernheim Barrel Proof Wheat Whiskey Review May 02, 2023

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.

TWiB: Heaven’s Door To Open A New Distillery, Buzzard’s Roost Whiskey Row Experience Opens, Barrell Adds Rye to Private Releases Apr 28, 2023

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
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407 - More Mind Blowing Stave Science on Bourbon Aging with Andrew Wiehebrink of ISC Apr 27, 2023

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?
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Whiskey Quickie: New Riff Malted Rye Whiskey 6 Year Old Review Apr 25, 2023

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.

TWiB: Bardstown Fights Back At Distillery Construction, Old Elk Announces 2023 Single Barrel Program, Booker’s Releases First Batch of 2023 Apr 21, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for April 21st 2023. The city of Bardstown fights back and stops new distillery construction, Old Elk Distillery announced its 2023 Single Barrel Program, and Booker’s Bourbon is releasing the first batch of the 2023 Collection.
Show Notes:

The city of Bardstown fights back and stops new distillery construction
The Woodford Reserve $1,000 Mint Julep
Woodford Reserve is creating a sensorial experience at John F. Kennedy’s Internal Airport
Global bourbon market value cap by Allied Market Research
Sotheby's has sold a five-bottle set of American whiskeys from closed distilleries for US$187,245
Old Elk Distillery announced its 2023 Single Barrel Program
Jefferson's Bourbon launches the Marian McLain and Entrepreneurial Fund with Shark Tank's Barbara Corcoran
Bardstown Bourbon Company will release its latest in the Collaborative Series with Foursquare Barbados Rum barrels
Milam & Greene Whiskey is proud to unveil Bobcat Single Barrel Bourbon
American rapper Nelly has entered the spirits industry with the launch of a moonshine brand, called MoShine
RD1 Spirits announces two new line extensions
Dixon Dedman releases The Innkeeper’s Blend
15 STARS releases Triple Cask and First West Rye
Sagamore Spirit's national release of its Orange Crush Craft Canned Cocktail
Booker’s Bourbon first batch of the 2023 called Charlie’s Batch
Furman University launched a straight bourbon whiskey, named FU All The Time
@woodfordreserve @alliedmarketresearch @sothebys @oldelkbourbon @jeffersonsbourbon @barbaracorcoran @bardstownbourbonco @milamandgreenewhiskey @nelly @rd1spirits @dixon_dedman @15starsbourbon @sagamorespirit @furmanuniversity
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406 - Chasing A Passion of BBQ with Matt Pittman of Meat Church Apr 20, 2023

If you google for anything BBQ related on YouTube, I can guarantee you will see a video pop-up of our guest. Matt Pittman is the founder of Meat Church, he's one of the most well-known BBQ personalities in the industry. But Matt wasn't always talking about brisket and ribs with his infamous Holy Cow rub, that was his passion project. In this episode we talk about his career and what it took to make a pivot from a comfy position in IT to going all-in with Meat Church. But this isn't all about BBQ. Matt is turning his sights into another discovered passion, bourbon. He discusses how is eyes were opened during a bottle share and with the help of the Dallas Bourbon Club, he is starting to build out his very own collection.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about tasting mats.
Where did you grow up and how did you get into tech?
Did you have any pit master idols or people you looked up to?
Were you accepted by people in the industry or did they just look at you as a YouTuber?
Why did you choose to not open a restaurant?
Did the product or the media and education come first?
What was the tipping point when you could leave your career to chase after BBQ?
What tactics did you use to grow the business when you went full time?
How did the idea of cooking classes start?
Where did the name Meat Church come from?
At what point did bourbon start making an influence on you?
Bourbon producers have generations of distillers, does that exist in BBQ as well?
Who bestowed upon you the title of pit master?
@meatchurch
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Whiskey Quickie: Heaven Hill Heritage Collection 20-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Corn Whiskey Review Apr 18, 2023

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Heaven Hill Heritage Collection 20-Year-Old Corn Whiskey. This 20 year old corn whiskey is 115 proof and $290 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.

TWiB: Wild Turkey Adds A Second Distillery, Sotheby's Rare American Whiskey Selection, A 10 Year Willett For Pope Francis Apr 14, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for April 14th 2023. Campari Group plans to add a second distillery at its Wild Turkey campus in Lawrenceburg, Sotheby's unveiled The Rare American Whiskey Selection , and Father Jim Sichko marks the 10-year anniversary of the election of Pope Francis with a rare release of 10-year Willet.
Show Notes:

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has begun an antitrust investigation into Southern Glazer's Wine and Spirits
Heaven’s Door plans to open The Last Refuge, a whiskey bar and live music venue, in downtown Louisville
Campari Group plans to add a second distillery at its Wild Turkey campus in Lawrenceburg
Castle & Key 502 is officially opening within the Fall City Market in the Omni Hotel
Edrington has increased its shareholding in the Wyoming Whiskey brand
Bourbon with HeART announces Bowtied Together
Give 270 has announced the kickoff of its latest series of charity whiskey raffles
Sotheby's unveiled The Rare American Whiskey Selection
The two Virginia men won't face any active jail time
Jennifer Lopez has launched her own line of ready-to-drink bottled cocktails
a new app called The Kentucky Hug
The Dancing Goat Distillery releases a 21-year-old light whiskey
Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company releases the Ten x Ten Small Batch Rye Whiskey
Knob Creek Rye brings back a 7 year age statement
Wilderness Trail releases a 7 year rye
Maker’s Mark Keeneland commemorative bottles
Proof & Wood Ventures launched The Globe
Father Jim Sichko marks the 10-year anniversary of the election of Pope Francis with a rare release of 10-year Willet
@heavensdoorwhiskey @wildturkey @castleandkey @wyomingwhiskey @bourbonwithheart @give270 @sothebys @jlo @dancinggoatdistillery @lawrenceburgbourbon @knobcreek @wildernesstraildistillery @makersmark @proofandwood @jimsichko
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405 - What Does It Take To Be A Master Taster? with Melissa Rift of Old Forester Apr 13, 2023

Master Taster. It just sounds like a really cool job. But what does it take to become a Master Taster? Old Forester is a brand that has a history of hiring people for this role and their newest is Melissa Rift. Ryan and I have had the pleasure of getting to know Melissa over the years but it was in different roles she held in the industry. Yet, thanks to notifications on indeed.com, she was able to apply and land this role. We talk about her history and career in the industry and then we dive into the position and what it takes to be a Master Taster. We also dive into consumer demand and where she sees trends changing over time.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about water contamination.
What is your background and how you got into the industry?
How do you stay invigorated when you have to give the same tour over and over again?
Do you feel tours are an entry point into the industry?
Tell the story of the stolen catalytic converters
How involved were you with quality control and single barrels at Bulliet?
How did you find out about the Master Taster position after Jackie left?
What were the pre-requisites for this position?
Did you feel confident going into this role or was it scary when it became real?
When the press release was announced it highlighted your personal life being openly gay. Was this your idea?
Did you taste through all product offerings so you can pick them all out?
Do you think consumers will change their opinion on proof?
Do you have some ideas on how you will change things to meet consumer demand?
How does your wife feel about the amount of travel that will now be involved?
@oldfomastertaster
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Whiskey Quickie: Old Forester King Ranch Bourbon Review Apr 11, 2023

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Old Forester King Ranch Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 105 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.

Behind The Pursuit: Expanding the Brand's Portfolio Apr 07, 2023

Having a variety of SKUs or choices in a brand’s portfolio is a great thing, right? You can reach a multitude of customers with multiple entry points or stepping blocks for them to learn more about you. However, the biggest challenges folks don’t really see come after the product development: continuously communicating with distributors why a new SKU should be carried, shelf space competition, ongoing marketing material about the new SKUs. The behind-the-scenes work can really add up, and is it worth it?

Today, we dive in to the topic of expanding the portfolio.

We hit on:

Is there a life cycle or cadence to how long to carry a set of SKUs before adding new ones?
Does having too many SKUs dilute the attention for your core products?
Are there certain SKU expansions that are necessary to reach more mass consumption?
How has the reception been in markets since the release of Oak Collection?
Do distributors give you more attention because you have more products in your lineup?

and much more.

For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at podcast@pursuitspirits.com.

Subscribe to Behind the Pursuit on:

404 - RNDC Responds To Sazerac's Lawsuit and When Will We See More Anti-Counterfeit Seals? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #79 Apr 06, 2023

It's everyone's monthly favorite, the bourbon community roundtable where we invite some of the brightest minds in bourbon media to come on and go deep on some topics. And up first is the story that keeps on giving. Earlier this year Sazerac came out of the gate putting a $38.6M lawsuit in front of Republic National Distributing Company (known as RNDC). Now here we are a few weeks later and we get RNDC's response where they are countersuing for Sazerac's attempts at undermining the three-tier system and claiming over $10M in damages. In the second half of the show we dig into the increase of counterfeit bourbon bottles on the market and these bottles aren't even super rare. We're talking Four Roses Single Barrels and Weller Full Proof. Should distilleries step up and have more tamper-proof seals or is this a buyer beware type of situation? We've said it a million times on the show before, if you want to help combat the spread of these fakes, throw away your bottles by putting sharpie on the label or even go as far as breaking them. Don't be that person selling empties on eBay.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about single barrel programs.
What impact will the Sazerac/RNDC lawsuit have on the bourbon industry?
When will we see more anti-counterfeit seals?
Who is responsible for preventing counterfeits?
@breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn
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Whiskey Quickie: A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength Bourbon #2 Review Apr 04, 2023

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength Bourbon #2. This 10 year old bourbon is 144.5 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.

TWiB: Elijah Craig is the Official Bourbon of the PGA, Chicken Cock Rleases Double Oak Kentucky Whiskey, Rock Town Introduces the Column Still Collection Mar 31, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 31st 2023. Elijah Craig is the Official Bourbon and whiskey supplier of the PGA, Chicken Cock Whiskey has released a Double Oak Kentucky Whiskey, Rock Town introduces the Column Still Collection.
Show Notes:

Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) urges Congress to legalize cannabis at the federal level
Regenified Certification to Star Hill Farm
New York wine and spirits shop owners traveled to Albany, New York to challenge Amazon
Elijah Craig is the “Official Bourbon” and whiskey supplier of the PGA
Traverse City Whiskey Co unveiled The Finishing Series
Coors Whiskey Co. has unveiled Barmen 1873 Bourbon
Rock Town introduces the Column Still Collection
Chicken Cock Whiskey has released a Double Oak Kentucky Whiskey
@starhillprovisions @makersmark @elijahcraig @tcwhiskey @coorswhiskeyco @rocktowndistill @chickencockwhiskey
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403 - Where Coffee and Bourbon Collide with Brian Beyke of Quills Mar 30, 2023

If you've listened to our show long enough you would know that it's Kenny versus Fred and Ryan when it comes to coffee. Kenny isn't not much of a coffee drinker but those guys can't live without. But I'm sure there are lots of other coffee and bourbon drinkers out there and you see things like "barrel aged" coffee and immediately gravitate towards it. I mean, how could you not? We should be barrel-aging everything! But there are more correlations between coffee and bourbon that I never knew of so that's why we invited Brian Beyke on the show. He's the Director of Coffee for Quills in Louisville and has been all-in on coffee and bourbon for a long time. In this episode, we scratch an itch to ask all the questions about coffee that we've always wanted to know such as the difference in beans from small versus large scale producers, the "rare" coffee scene, buzzwords to watch out for, and Brian gives us the low-down if barrel-aging is a gimmick.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about palette fatigue.
How did you find your path into coffee?
Do you need to spit coffee while tasting?
What notes in coffee are you looking for when tasting?
Is there a three-tier system with coffee?
What's the difference in the beans that you get versus the big name brands?
Is there a "rare" coffee scene?
What are the buzzwords in coffee that you need to watch out for?
If bourbon is synonymous to Kentucky then what is the coffee equivalent?
What's the professional consensus of Keurig?
Does roasting line up with toasting or charring of barrels?
What's best method for barrel-aging coffee?
How do you adapt the coffee for a cold brew or nitro?
Is there a secondary market for rare coffee?
Is the coffee flavor wheel different than the bourbon flavor wheel?
@abandoncoffee @abandonbourbon
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Whiskey Quickie: Old Elk 2022 Infinity Blend Bourbon Review Mar 28, 2023

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Old Elk 2022 Infinity Blend Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 114.1 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.

TWiB: RNDC Fights Back Against The Sazerac Lawsuit, Blue Run Revealed Plans For A New Distillery, Pinhook Debutes their Vertical Series Rye 7-Year Mar 24, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 17th 2023. RNDC fights back against the Sazerac lawsuit. Blue Run Spirits today revealed the first look at its planned whiskey distillery and headquarters in Georgetown, Kentucky.Pinhook Bourbon has debuted their Vertical Series Rye 7-Year.
Show Notes:

RNDC fights back against the Sazerac lawsuit
Fermenting Change has launched outlining the various ways Three-Tier System harms the alcohol industry
direct-to-consumer shipping become a reality in Illinois at ShipMySpirits.org
Coors Light introduced Coors-icles
Pernod Ricard has buys majority stake in Skrewball
Blue Run Spirits today revealed the first look at its planned whiskey distillery
New Riff Distilling will begin a US$3 million renovation of its public areas
Lux Row Distillers announce Rebel 100 Straight Rye Whiskey
Wolves announces its first-ever American Single Malt whiskeys
Ragged Branch Distillery announces a special bourbon celebrating the fiftieth anniversary of Secretariat's Triple Crown win
Pinhook Bourbon has debuted their Vertical Series Rye 7-Year
@rndcusa @shipmyspirits @buffalotracedistillery @coorslight @skrewballwhiskey @pernodricard @bluerunspirits @newriff @luxrowdistillers @raggedbranch @pinhook_bourbon
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402 - What is Bourbon's Biggest Threat? Mar 23, 2023

Bourbon's rise in popularity has been a monumental shift in consumer behavior, but the reality is that it could all come crashing down really quick. Ryan, Fred, and Kenny spend some time on this episode and think about what are those threats to bourbon? We all have ideas on why it became so popular but what are those outside influences that we have no control over? Fred gives a brief history on the bourbon glut era and that starts spurring other ideas that could hurt bourbon's popularity such as overzealous health advocates, new spirits on the rise, government taxes, or the next generation of consumers?

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about heritage brands.
Is there an issue with grains, raw material, and barrel shortages?
How has the lack of staffing in the service industry impacted bourbon?
What caused the first glut and what can we do to prevent that?
Did tariffs make an impact on bourbon or was it not really hindered?
Are health reports becoming a scare tactic to reduce alcohol consumption?
Is there any spirits that could be the next rise of vodka and kill whiskey?
Could taxes be a big burden on stifling bourbon?
Could the next generation just not like bourbon and kill it off?
What happens if bourbon producers have too much greed or there is consumer fatigue?
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Whiskey Quickie: Jack Daniel’s Twice Barreled American Single Malt Review Mar 21, 2023

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Jack Daniel’s Twice Barreled American Single Malt. This non-age stated single malt is 105.7 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.

TWiB: Kentucky Lawmakers Pass House Bill 5, Jack Daniel's New 12-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey, Green River Introduces Wheat and Full Proof Mar 17, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 17th 2023. Kentucky lawmakers passed House Bill 5 phasing out a state tax on aging bourbon barrels. Jack Daniel's announced the release of its new 12-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey along with Batch 2 of its 10-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey. This month, Green River will introduce two brand new expressions.
Show Notes:

New bottle tracking app called Whiskey Shelf
Humble Baron, home to the world's longest bar, opening at Nearest Green
Chattanooga Whiskey named Tiana Saul as Head Distiller
Ship my Spirits coalition calls for spirits shipping laws in New York
Data shows how much people are spending while intoxicated
Kentucky lawmakers passed House Bill 5 phasing out a state tax on aging bourbon barrels
ChatGPT has passed the Master Sommelier theory examinations
Jack Daniel's announced the release of its new 12-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey along with Batch 2 of its 10-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey
Puncher’s Chance The UNDISPUTED
New Bhakta 2013 Bourbon finished in Armagnac casks
Four Gate Whiskey Company announced the very limited Majestic Wood series
Jim Beam has launched Kentucky Coolers
Green River will introduce two brand new expressions
@unclenearest @chattwhiskey @shipmyspirits @jackdaniels_us @puncherschancebourbon @bhaktaspirits @fourgatewhiskey @jimbeamofficial @greenriverdistillingco
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401 - Analyzing the Bourbon Market with Dixon Dedman Mar 16, 2023

The stock market and the bourbon market share one thing in common. They are both impossible to time. If you get in at the right time, maybe you don't have to wait tens of years to make a return on your investment, but if you're too late then you could see a decline. However, in bourbon, there seems to be one person that has time working in his favor, and that's Dixon Dedman. We invite Dixon to come on the show for a third appearance to talk about a few things because it seems like his timing is always perfect. He sold Kentucky Owl to Stoli after being on the market a short period of time, but now that he is officially done with Kentucky Owl we ask him about how he feels and what he learned through the process. After leaving Stoli, he worked with The Brindiamo Group, who we also had on the podcast back on episode 182, and he worked for them for a short period of time where he got an inside glimpse into brand and investment consulting. And now, he's launching his own brand called 2XO which is perfect in this current climate when bourbon is hot and double barreling might be even hotter.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about rubbing whiskey on your hands to nose.
Are you still making fried chicken on the weekends?
Do you have any regrets after selling Kentucky Owl to Stoli?
What did you take away and learn from working with Stoli?
How did your relationship with Brindiamo begin?
How many barrels are there on the open market where people are flipping them?
What profiles or types of bourbon do you like to work with?
Is 2XO and Kentucky Owl going to be similar or different?
Is there a healthy pipeline of barrels to continue building the brand?
@dixon_dedman
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Whiskey Quickie: Bardstown Bourbon Company Origin Series Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon Review Mar 14, 2023

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Bardstown Bourbon Company Origin Series Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon. This 6 year old wheated bourbon is 100 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.

TWiB: Too Much Whiskey Fungus at Jack Daniel's, Leaked Documents From Amazon on Liquor Laws, Laws Whiskey Releases Bottled in Bond Four Grain Mar 10, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 10th 2023. The whiskey fungus at Jack Daniel's makes national headlines. A leaked document from Amazon show's they are trying to change liquor laws. Laws Whiskey House announced the 2023 release of their Bottled in Bond Four Grain Bourbon.
Show Notes:

The whiskey fungus at Jack Daniel's makes national headlines
A German brewery is set to release the world's first 'complete' beer in powdered form
A leaked document from Amazon show's they are trying to change liquor laws
Bourbon:30 from Kentucky Bourbon Fest is available on YouTube
Laws Whiskey House announced the 2023 release of their Bottled in Bond Four Grain Bourbon
Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey has unveiled its second annual release of Diamond Peak
Former Rutgers football player recently launched LeGrand Whiskey
@jackdaniels_us @brownforman @lawswhiskey @stranahans @ericlegrand52
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400 - What's Up With Whiskey Fungus? Is It Time To Remove the Kentucky Ad Valorem tax? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #78 Mar 09, 2023

This episode is another Bourbon Pursuit milestone. It's episode 400! Well, it's technically number 668 if we include Whiskey Quickie and This Week in Bourbon, but let's not get into the details. On this Bourbon Community Roundtable we cover two topics in depth. First is the news blitz of the whiskey fungus articles focused on Jack Daniel's. If you've driven past any distillery in the past 100 or so year, you would have seen this everywhere. It also pops up in the news every year, but why is it just now making national headlines? I also ask the group if there is anything the distilleries can do to get in front of this to avoid any negative PR. The second half of the show dives into House Bill 5 that attacks the Kentucky Ad Valorem tax, in which Kentucky is the only state that taxes barrels aging and resting. We look at what this means for citizens that benefit from the tax and if we feel distilleries are already taxed enough.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about teeth staining.
Why is the whiskey fungus just now making national news even though it's been around for years?
What can distilleries do to make sure this argument of bad PR doesn't happen next year?
What could the distilleries provide to residents to make them more comfortable?
What do you think of the Ad Valorem tax on aging barrels?
What would the removal of the tax mean for citizens?
@breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn
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Whiskey Quickie: Doc Holliday 8 Year Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey Review Mar 07, 2023

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Doc Holliday 8 Year Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey from the World Whiskey Society. This 8 year old bourbon is 131 proof and $134 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.

TWiB: Washtucky is Suing Wilderness Trail, Acker Pays $100k Fine For Counterfeit Bourbon, Two New Kentucky Derby Bottles Released Mar 03, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 3rd 2023. Washtucky is suing Wilderness trail for failing to make contract barrels. Acker Wines has agreed to pay a maximum fine for selling counterfeit bottles. Two new Kentucky Derby bottles are being released.
Show Notes:

March 3rd 1897 is when the The Bottled-in-Bond Act changed the bourbon world forever
Washtucky is suing Wilderness trail for failing to make contract barrels
Statement from Kentucky’s Bourbon Industry on House Bill 5
The St. Louis Bourbon Society will host the 2nd Annual Bourbon and Brews Festival on June 10th
Yellowstone will donate $250,000 to National Parks Conservation Association
Acker Wines has agreed to pay a maximum fine for selling counterfeit bottles
Evan Williams Single Barrel Bourbon with a commemorative 51st Edition Gold Pegasus Pin sealed in teal wax
Woodford Reserve will release its 2023 commemorative Derby bottle
@wildernesstraildistillery @stlbourbonsociety @yellowstonebourbon @ackerwines @evanwilliamsbourbon @woodordreserve
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399 - Do Spirits Competitions Matter? Mar 02, 2023

Love it or hate it, spirit competitions are here to stay. They have such an important impact on marketing and can put a small shimmer of light on a new and upcoming brand, or it changes the course and turns a brand such as Henry McKenna into an unobtainable. In this episode, Fred Minnick and Kenny Coleman talk about multiple facets of spirits competitions because we have now lived it. We're both enthusiasts like you so we care what bourbons come out on top, Fred has been a judge forever and now has his own competition called the ASCOTs, and we have our own brand with Pursuit United that has been entered and done favorably in many competitions. Fred and I analyze all these angle about talk about the "pay to play" scenario and how people are selected to be judges along with the best way to enter a competition as a brand owner.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the meaning of allocation.
Fred, how long have you been a part of spirit competitions?
Why weren't media members typically invited to be judges?
Why is this considered "pay to play"?
Why is there so much confusion based on what category to submit when it's straight bourbon vs small batch?
Why would a bourbon society enter a spirits competition?
What makes someone worthy enough to be a judge at a competition?
Should you put batch numbers on your competition entry or just the brand?
Why does MGP always perform well in competitions?
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Whiskey Quickie: Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon Fall 2022 Edition Review Feb 28, 2023

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Old Fitzgerald Fall 2022 Edition. This 19 year old bourbon is 100 proof and $240 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.

TWiB: Tourism At Distilleries Reaches New High, Old Forester The Sleepeasy, Michter’s Will Releas its 10 Year Bourbon Feb 24, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for February 24th 2023. Tourism at distilleries is bigger than ever. Old Forester launches its inaugural Sleepeasy. Michter’s Distillery will begin releasing its 10 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Show Notes:

HB 2200 will modernize Texas laws to provide fair treatment for spirits-based ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails
Tourism at distilleries is bigger than ever
Old Forester launches its inaugural Sleepeasy
Lost Lantern announces the release of their ninth single cask collection
Michter’s Distillery will begin releasing its 10 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon
@oldforester @lostlanternwhiskey @michterswhiskey
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398 - Carrying On A Legacy at Wild Turkey with Bruce Russell Feb 23, 2023

Wild Turkey is one of the premier bourbon brands. We've had the pleasure of having all the Russell's on the show in previous years and it's always heartwarming to have any member of this family on to share stories. It's fun to hear the generational changes and how bourbon has developed. We had Bruce Russell on the show for the first time in 2019 on episode 199 with his cousin, JoAnn Street, but this time Bruce joins the show to talk about his journey in these last few years. Bruce has shown tremendous growth in a short period of time and we get to know more about him and how his time as a global brand ambassador really immersed him into the company and the culture. We ask Bruce about the current whiskey market and how he is carrying on a legacy and how he thinks he will leave his everlasting stamp on Wild Turkey.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about oxidation in the bottle.
Did you know as a child you were going to get into whiskey?
How is it different for you all being the face of the brand but not the owners of it?
When you started as a global brand ambassador was that a way to get an immersive learning experience?
Did Jimmy or Eddie ever tell you about being on the road before bourbon was cool?
What have you seen change since you started in 2011?
Why do you keep changing your packaging?
What international markets is Wild Turkey getting entrenched into?
Have you thought about how you are going to put your own stamp on the Wild Turkey brand?
If you have ideas to implement, how do you go through your creative process?
Do you think the market is ready for blending to start making more traction?
Why do you keep making me hammer out bungs during single barrel picks?
@russellsryeguy
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Whiskey Quickie: Parker's Heritage Collection 2022 Double Barreled Blend Bourbon Review Feb 21, 2023

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review the 16th Edition of the Parker's Heritage Collection. This 13 and 15 year old bourbon blend is 132.2 proof and $175 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.

TWiB: Sazerac Responds to Justin’s House of Bourbon, Oregon Officials Get Fired Over Pappy, Yellowstone's American Single Malt Whiskey Feb 17, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for February 17h 2023. Sazerac responds to the raid on Justin’s House of Bourbon. Oregon officials get fired over allocating Pappy to themselves. Yellowstone launches its own American Single Malt Whiskey.
Show Notes:

Sazerac responds to the raid on Justin’s House of Bourbon
Oregon officials get fired over allocating Pappy to themselves
Bluegrass Distillers will build a new US$8 million distillery
Buffalo Trace Distillery's new still house has officially been commissioned
Sunday sales of distilled spirits has been passed in the Mississippi House
Yellowstone launches its own American Single Malt Whiskey
Barrell Craft Spirits has launched Barrell Bourbon Batch 34
Bluebird Distilling and country music star Jordan Davis collaborate on Bluebird Days Straight American Whiskey
Woodford Reserve announces the winter 2022 Master’s Collection release - Historic Barrel Entry
@houseofbourbonlex @houseofbourbonlou @houseofbourbonky @woodfordreserve @bluegrassdistillers @buffalotracedistillery @yellowstonebourbon @barrellbourbon @bluebirddistilling @jordandavisofficial
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397 - Should Whiskey Be An Investment? Feb 16, 2023

Most people get into bourbon because we enjoy it. There is a story behind every bottle and that captivates us. But then there are times we get our hands on a bottle and start thinking twice before opening it. The secondary market for scotch has been around a while but bourbon is relatively new in comparison. There has been an increase of rare bourbons hitting high dollars at auctions and even more auction houses are starting to become legal. In this episode, Ryan, Fred, and Kenny analyze the bourbon market and give our opinions on why whiskey isn't just for drinking anymore. We also gaze into our crystal ball and try to guess on some brands that have potential future value and then we talk about moving on from flipping bottles to flipping barrels.

Show Notes:

Is whiskey really made for drinking and not collecting?
Why is the value of the current whiskey market starting to decline?
Is there a lack of marketing to get people into more higher end bottles?
What are we drinking now that could be valuable in the future?
People have moved on from bottles to starting to own barrels, is that a safe investment?
Do you need to worry about the source of the barrels if you're buying on the open market?
For real, this is not financial advice.
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Whiskey Quickie: Wolves Rye Whiskey & Hop Flavored Whiskey Review Feb 14, 2023

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Wolves Rye Whiskey & Hop Flavored Whiskey Batch No. 1. This non-age stated whiskey is 103 proof and $145 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.

TWiB: Woodford Reserve Names A New Master Distiller, Blue Run Innovates The Private Barrel Program, Heaven Hill Releases A 20-year Corn Whiskey Feb 10, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for February 10th 2023. Woodford Reserve Names A New Master Distiller. Blue Run Innovates The Private Barrel Program. Heaven Hill Releases A 20-year Corn Whiskey.
Show Notes:

Kentucky Bourbon Trail eclipsed two million visits
California has introduced a bill that allows spirits-based RTDs to be sold in more retailers
Shortbarrel announced the acquisition of the famous Old Fourth Distillery
Woodford Reserve named Elizabeth McCall as Master Distiller
Blue Run puts a new spin on the launch of their private barrel program
Heaven Hill Heritage Collection 20-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Corn Whiskey
The first national Barrel Proof expression of Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey
A release known as Blanton’s Char No. 4 2022 Limited Edition is popping up
@kentuckybourbontrail @shortbarrelwhiskey @oldfourthdistillery @woodfordreserve @heavenhillbrands @heavenhilldistillery @bluerunspirits
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396 - Fading Trends, Evolution of In-Store Buying, and Increase of Bourbon Fests on Bourbon Community Roundtable #77 Feb 09, 2023

This is BCR #77 and its always a fan favorite so here's what we have tonight. Like bad hair and skinny jeans, trends come and go. But the same thing happens in the bourbon world. I pose a question to the group, if we see any trends fading. We start talking about stickers and barrel picks, but there are more we see happening. In the next section of the show, I ask everyone if the in-store buying experience is changing. There have been a lot of partnerships and acquisitions by Drizly, GoPuff, ReserveBar, and even Seelbachs. Are online and on-demand outlets such as these making consumers less likely to try new things? In the last part of the show, it's a question from Brian and he wants to know are there just too many bourbon festivals?

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) cigars.
What bourbon trends are fading?
Will Drizly/GoPuff/Seelbachs/ReserveBar kill the in-store experience?
How can brands get people to try new things when many people will choose what's comfortable?
Are there too many bourbon festivals? It seems like every festival is now BLANK + Bourbon.
@breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn
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Whiskey Quickie: Chicken Cock Chanticleer Cognac Barrel Finish Bourbon Review Feb 07, 2023

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Chicken Cock Chanticleer Cognac Barrel Finish Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 112 proof and $500 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.

TWiB: Fireball Drinkers Are Suing Sazerac, Drizly and GoPuff Announce Partnership, Sagamore Reserve Series 8-Year-Old Rye Whiskey Feb 03, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for January 27th 2023. Fireball drinkers are suing Sazerac for misleading labels. Drizly and GoPuff announce a new partnership to provide immediate, on-demand delivery of drinks. Sagamore Spirit releases of its limited-edition Reserve Series 8-Year-Old Rye Whiskey.
Show Notes:

Fireball drinkers are suing Sazerac for misleading labels
CeeLo Green joins forces with the Black-owned Victor George Spirits
Grain & Barrel Spirits has announced a multi-year partnership with PGA TOUR Pro Golfer Kevin Kisner
Elijah Craig announced a new multi-year partnership with sports broadcaster Amanda Balionis Renner
Drizly and GoPuff announce a new partnership to provide immediate, on-demand delivery of drinks
Midway University’s online MBA in Tourism and Event Management program
A new Israeli bourbon called Dew of B’Dolah by Thinkers Distillery
Chattanooga Whiskey announced Silver Oak Cabernet Cask Finished and Batch XXIX: Centenary Cask
Boondocks 18 Year Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Sagamore Spirit releases of its limited-edition Reserve Series 8-Year-Old Rye Whiskey
@fireballwhiskey @ceelogreen @vgvodka @chickencockwhiskey @kevin_kisner @elijahcraig @balionisrenner @drizlyinc @gopuff @midwayuniv @thinkers.@distillery @chattwhiskey @sagamorespirit
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395 - Why Are Master Distillers Leaving? with Jason Callori of The Mash and Drum Feb 02, 2023

There seems to be a growing trend in the whiskey world and that is when you start seeing the accustom faces you know and trust in a brand leave to go and start their own venture. Can you blame them? There is more opportunity to own a piece of the pie. But could we see a growing problem where we see those brands struggle to take off? To help dive into this conversation we invite Jason Callori of the Mash and Drum on the show. We kick off the show to learn more about Jason and how he built one of the largest whiskey YouTube channels. Then we talk about Master Distillers and other faces leaving their respected brands and what motivates such a move.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks the frustration of secondary prices and not finding bottles
How did you get into bourbon?
What channels influenced you to start your own channel?
What wins, content or production value?
Did you ever have a sensation of burnout?
Who are some of the favorite guests that you have had on the show?
Are you master distillers and faces of the brand leaving for more money?
Has the Master Distiller title been diluted?
How fair is it for blenders to be criticized when they only have access to what's on the open market vs what they had at their disposal at a previous company?
If you have a small brand and one batch bombs, how long can you rely on your reputation?
Will a whiskey geek give someone a second chance?
If someone is leaving from being a face of a brand, how long should they wait until they announce they are starting a new brand?
@the_mash_and_drum
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Whiskey Quickie: Remus Repeal Reserve VI 2022 Review Jan 31, 2023

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Remus Repeal Reserve VI 2022. This non-age stated 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.

TWiB: Traverse City Whiskey Begins A $20M Distillery, Old Elk Launches Rye Finished in Barbados Rum, Michter’s Releases 2022 Celebration Sour Mash Jan 27, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for January 27th 2023. Traverse City Whiskey Co. has officially broke ground on a $20M distillery. Old Elk Distillery launches its first Rye Whiskey finished in Barbados Rum Casks. Michter’s Distillery will begin shipping the 2022 Edition of its Celebration Sour Mash.
Show Notes:

Elijah Craig Bourbon and AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am announced a multi-year partnership
A new bill introduced to the Ohio Senate would allow Ohioans to make moonshine
Bourbon with HeART is launching Barrels of HeART
Buffalo Trace Distillery is offering one lucky bourbon lover the trip of a lifetime
ReserveBar launched its new website Get Stocked
Traverse City Whiskey Co. has officially broke ground on a $20M distillery
Old Elk Distillery launches its first Rye Whiskey finished in Barbados Rum Casks
Hercules Mulligan Eyr & Rye, a limited-edition Irish-American Manhattan
Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company. ’L.B.Co.’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon “One Cask Series”
Heaven’s Door Spirits releases Bootleg Series Vol. IV, an 11-Year-Old Wheated Bourbon finished in Islay Scotch Casks
Michter’s Distillery will begin shipping the 2022 Edition of its Celebration Sour Mash
@elijahcraig @bourbonwithheart @buffalotracedistillery @reservebar @tcwhiskey @oldelkbourbon @herculesmulligancompany @lawrenceburgbourbon @heavensdoorwhiskey @michterswhiskey
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394 - Bourbon Capital Academy with Sam Lacy Jan 26, 2023

You listen to this show because you want to be a better educated bourbon consumer. Or maybe you just went off the deep-end and started buying too many bottles and now you're on the hunt for the next great bottle. Either way, I'm glad you're here. But there are all sorts of new opportunities that foster deeper knowledge with some of the premier distilleries in Kentucky, most notably, in Bardstown. Sam Lacy joins the show to talk about everything from the Bourbon Capital Community Alliance. It's an initiative from the city of Bardstown to bring in-depth and tailored educational experiences to distilleries around Bardstown along with their brand new Brindiamo Penthouse that can provide a 101-level primer for people before they hit the distilleries.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks bottles as an investment
How did you get into bourbon?
Why was there an initiative to form an alliance?
How many partner distilleries are a part of the alliance?
Is the Bourbon Capital Guild a private bourbon society?
What are the distilleries asking of the city to help promote bourbon tourism?
Is the Bourbon Capital Academy a proprietary education course that anyone can take?
What is the Brindiamo Penthouse?
How often are the courses being offered at the partner distilleries?
How much does a custom distillery course cost?
@bourboncapitalguild @bourboncapitalacademy @brindiamogroup
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Whiskey Quickie: Brothers of the Leaf Bourbon Finished in Toasted French Oak Review Jan 24, 2023

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Brothers of the Leaf Bourbon Finished in Toasted French Oak. This non-age stated bourbon is 115.4 proof and $90 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!
DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

TWiB: Sazerac Sues RNDC In Excess of $86M , Kentucky ABC Raids Justins’ House of Bourbon, Woodford Reserve Releases Double Double Oaked Jan 20, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for January 20th 2023. Sazerac is suing Republic National Distributing Company in excess of $86M. Kentucky ABC seized undisclosed amounts of bourbon from Justins’ House of Bourbon. Woodford Reserve releases its Double Double Oaked Bourbon for 2023.
Show Notes:

Sazerac is suing Republic National Distributing Company in excess of $86M
Kentucky ABC seized undisclosed amounts of bourbon from Justins’ House of Bourbon
Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) implements a price increase of 4% on more than 3,500 brands
Playboy Spirits has raised more than US$13 million in funding
Greg Hughes, Beam Suntory chief growth and brands officer, talks RTD growth
Woodford Reserve releases its Double Double Oaked Bourbon for 2023
Mystic Farm & Distillery announces the launch of Mystic Galactic, a bourbon whiskey aged for one year in space
@houseofbourbonlex @houseofbourbonlou @houseofbourbonky @playboy @woodfordreserve @mysticfarmdistillery
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393 - Forecasting Bourbon's Future with Susan Wahl of Heaven Hill Jan 19, 2023

If you think there is a lot of bourbon on the shelf now, wait just a few more years. The news over the past year has been flooded with a couple million upwards to a billion dollars in capital investments from everyone in the bourbon industry. When the news dropped that Heaven Hill was going to open a new $135M distillery that will produce 150,000 barrels a year, in addition to their existing Bernheim distillery that already produces 1,500 a day, many of us scratched our heads and thought, "who is going to drink all this whiskey?". That's when I reached out to Heaven Hill and invited Susan Wahl to come on the show. She has a long, 20 plus year history working in the whiskey portfolio at Heaven Hill. She's literally seen it all. We talk about what drove the decision to build a second distillery, the threats, and how they are planning for everything in the supply chain, including barrels and labor. We also talk about data trends and where they see the international market heading.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks when barrel proof became common.
What were your whiskey initiatives and marketing plan for bourbon in the early days?
How did you take Evan Williams into one of the largest whiskey brands?
What trends or data have you learned from the visitor center?
What factors did you take into account when thinking that you need another $135M distillery that can produce 150k barrels a year?
How much of your sales is domestic vs international?
What threats did you see about potentially not building another distillery?
Did the removal of European tariffs have an impact on your forecast?
Did barrels or other supply chain factors play an important role in your forecast?
What data helps you push pass the fears of a 20-year lifecycle on trends?
How have you worked with the city to build new warehouses?
Does Bardstown have the workforce to take care of the labor requirements?
What makes you bullish about tourism for bourbon?
@heavenhilldistillery
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Whiskey Quickie: Uncle Nearest Rye Whiskey Review Jan 17, 2023

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Uncle Nearest Uncut/Unfiltered Rye Whiskey. This non-age stated uncut rye whiskey is 119.7 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.

TWiB: Barrell Purchases A Historic Rickhouse, Announcing The Brindiamo Penthouse, 78 Legends Features a 50 Year Old Bourbon Jan 13, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for January 13th 2023. Barrell Craft Spirits purchases a historic rickhouse in Shively, Kentucky. The Bourbon Capital Alliance has announced the establishment of the Brindiamo Penthouse. A New Bourbon release called '78 Legends featuring a 50 year old bourbon.
Show Notes:

The bourbon capital alliance has announced the establishment of the Brindiamo Penthouse
Neuroscientists have created a new category of non-alcoholic ‘spirit’ designed to mimic the feel-good effects of alcohol
President Joe Biden pardoned a man who was convicted 60 years ago for a single instance of selling whiskey without a tax stamp
Barrell Craft Spirits purchases a historic rickhouse in Shively, Kentucky
Stanford University has released a study about distilleries and appearing authentic
Four Roses and OSMO Salt release Toasted Vanilla Bourbon Salt
Kentucky Owl has announced the release of its Batch #12 Bourbon
Larceny and Elijah Craig Barrel Proof A123 are released
A New Bourbon release called '78 Legends featuring a 50 year old bourbon
@barrellbourbon @joebiden @bourboncapitalguild @bourboncapitalacademy @stanford @fourrosesbourbon @osmosalt @kentuckyowl
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392 - What Does Sazerac Leaving RNDC Mean For Everyone? and 2023 Predictions on Bourbon Community Roundtable #76 Jan 12, 2023

It's Bourbon Community Roundtable #76 and this is one I'm excited to talk about because as you're well aware, building a brand requires choosing the right distribution partners. The big shake up of the past few weeks is that Sazerac is pulling out of Republic National Distributing Company in favor of smaller, more mid-tier, and beer focused distributors in around 30 different states. So, we want to ask the roundtable a few questions. First, what would motivate Sazerac to break up this long-standing relationship? If you are a distributor that got selected, what problems are you going to experience. And lastly, as a consumer are we going to see any change like finding Pappy on the shelf at MSRP. Spoiler alert... the answer is no. Since it's the first roundtable of 2023, we all put in our predictions and see what the future holds for bourbon this year.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about dry January.
Sazerac is leaving RNDC. What does this mean for Sazerac?
Sazerac goes with mid-tier distributors. How do distirbutors adapt and what happens to other brands?
Does Sazerac leaving RNDC mean anything for the end consumer?
What are your 2023 predictions?
@breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn
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Whiskey Quickie: Frey Ranch Single Barrel Rye Review Jan 10, 2023

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Frey Ranch Single Barrel Rye. This non-age stated rye is 131.8 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.

TWiB: Lisa Wicker Takes Charge at Alltech, New Record For Pappy Van Winkle Set at Auction, Hard Truth Master Distiller’s Reserve Collection Jan 06, 2023

It's This Week in Bourbon for January 6th 2023. Lisa Wicker takes on the new role as CEO & Master Distiller of Lyons Brewing & Distilling Co. A new record was set at auction for Pappy Van Winkle. Hard Truth Distillery Co. announced the 2022 Hard Truth Master Distiller’s Reserve Collection.
Show Notes:

Lisa Wicker takes on the new role as CEO & Master Distiller of Lyons Brewing & Distilling Co
The partnership between Matthew McConaughey and Wild Turkey has ended
Sazerac is moving away from Republic National Distributing Company
A new record was set at auction for Pappy Van Winkle
Wilderness Trail set to double its bottling production
Hard Truth Distillery Co. announced the 2022 Hard Truth Master Distiller’s Reserve Collection
@lbwicker @alltechinc @wildturkey @officiallymcconaughey @sothebys @wildernesstraildistillery @hardtruthspirits
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391 - Tequila Pursuit with Alfonso Esquivias of Drinks with Fonz Jan 05, 2023

If you listen to our Friday show called This Week in Bourbon, you would hear us talking about tequila being the next rising spirit. I mean, who doesn't like a good margarita? Much like bourbon, there is a lot to know about what goes into making the spirit. To help explain all that, we've invited Alfonso Esquivias, the Founder and Owner of Drinks with Fonz. Alfonso sent Ryan and I 12 different tequilas to sample them as we go through to know more about them. It was a lot of tequila but I promise you that I have a much deeper appreciation for tequila after this. Alfonso talks about the laws to be called a tequila and we dive into the process of harvesting agave and distilling it. We then tackle the touchy subject of how many tequilas on the market are full of additives like sugar and how you shouldn't trust many celebrity brands as well. Listen closely to the brands we talk about during the show so you know which ones are additive-free and legit.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the popularity of Buffalo Trace
How did you get into spirits in general?
What restrictions are in place to be called a tequila?
Can you describe an agave plant?
Can you explain the differences between blanco, reposado, and anejo?
In bourbon you will never see anyone claim they like un-aged bourbon but why is that with tequila?
How do you know which brands have additives?
What are all tequilas in the 80-90 proof range?
What is the typical proof off the still?
Who is the MGP of tequila?
So what makes something like Jose Cuervo mass-market or bottom shelf?
Is saying "using tequila as a mixer" considered blasphemy?
Does a particular agave field have different effect on the flavor like grapes with wine?
How do you know when an agave plant is ready for harvesting?
Does price point increase when proof increases?
Do all celebrity tequilas have additives or are considered crap?
@drinks.@with.@fonz
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Whiskey Quickie: Hirsch “The Bivouac” Kentucky Bourbon Review Jan 03, 2023

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Hirsch "The Bivouac" Kentucky Bourbon. Yes, we still didn't pronounce it right. This non-age stated bourbon is 100 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.

Behind The Pursuit: Juggling Multiple Jobs and Technology & Tradition Dec 30, 2022

Hey everyone, we're back again with a double header episode where you get to know more about Ryan and I. This is a long episode because we both have our own dedicated episodes on Behind The Pursuit. In the first half you will hear Episode 19 with Ryan. You will get to hear about his morning rituals and the businesses he runs and manages outside of bourbon. The second half of the show in Episode 20 with me and talks about my career progression and how I take a very data-centric and analytical approach to everything we are doing with Pursuit Spirits. Remember, if you like these episodes, then search for Behind The Pursuit on your podcast player and hit subscribe. It's a fantastic way to hear more about the inside of the industry and we talk about building a brand, glass shortages, distribution hurdles, and so much more.

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390 - The Return of JW (Wally) Dant into Distilling with Wally Dant of Log Still Distillery Dec 29, 2022

If you've been around bourbon long enough, then you know the name JW Dant. That's because the Dant name is equivalent to bourbon royalty as it is steeped in history. But there is another Dant that is wanting to bring his family name back into the distilling business and that's JW Dant, or better known as Wally Dant from Log Still Distillery. Wally joins the show to talk about his upbringing and how some early career choices he made early on put him in the fortunate position to revive life into Gesthamane Kentucky where he is building his own legacy in the bourbon business.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the American single malt category
Was there ever a moment where you realized bourbon was a part of your DNA?
What have you discovered about understanding about your heritage?
Who was the last person, in your family tree, to work at a distillery?
What was your focus of study at Purdue?
How did you progress in your career and businesses that you sold?
How do you transition from selling your business to figuring out what to do next?
When did you decide to make the investment from sourcing Tennessee whiskey to breaking ground on a distillery?
What was the inspiration for putting a focus on rebuilding the community in Gethsemane?
Did the lawsuit with Heaven Hill over your name come into play early on?
What does 5th district mean on your Monk's Road label?
What's your plan on having your whiskey be different than anyone else's?
@logstilldistillery @jwwallydant
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Whiskey Quickie: King of Kentucky 18 Year 2022 Release Review Dec 27, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review King of Kentucky 18 Year. This 18 year old bourbon is 130.3 proof and $350 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.

Behind The Pursuit: Brand Loyalty Dec 23, 2022

Hey everyone, at the end of the year we typically like to post some episodes that aren't our normal types and end up being fun. However, this past year we launched a second podcast called Behind The Pursuit. This new podcast releases every 2 weeks that covers topics of sourcing, forecasting, brand loyalty, raw materials, work/life balance, and more. This is a creative outlet for us to talk to you all about what it takes to build a bourbon brand. This is episode 22 of Behind The Pursuit where we talk about our journeys visiting multiple states and brand loyalty. Do bourbon geeks have brand loyalty? And how do you build brand loyalty to a general consumer? Make sure you subscribe to Behind The Pursuit on your podcast player and hit subscribe to listen to more of these episodes.

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389 - Will Celebrities Help or Hurt Bourbon? Dec 22, 2022

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?
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Whiskey Quickie: Heaven’s Door Decade Series #01 Review Dec 20, 2022

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.

TWiB: Jefferson's Bourbon Gets A $250M Distillery, Willett Will Build An Additional $93M Distillery, Booker's Releases "Pinkie's Batch" Dec 16, 2022

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
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388 - Is There A Small Brand Problem? and 2022 Prediction Results on Bourbon Community Roundtable #75 Dec 15, 2022

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
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Whiskey Quickie: Jack Daniel’s Distillery Series Rye Finished in High Toast Maple Barrels Review Dec 13, 2022

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.

TWiB: Single Barrel Select Moves To A Points System, Bardstown Bourbon Announces Origin Series, Pursuit Spirits Debuts the Oak Collection Dec 09, 2022

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
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387 - Dealing With Bourbon and Theft at Retail with Tony Konja of Keg N Bottle Dec 08, 2022

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
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Whiskey Quickie: The Last Drop Release No. 28 Signature Blend of Kentucky Straight Whiskeys Review Dec 06, 2022

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.

TWiB: KDA to Refresh Kentucky Bourbon Trail Branding, Blue Run Winter Solstice Collection, 16th edition of the Parker’s Heritage Collection Dec 02, 2022

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 Collection
Show 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
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386 - From Restaurant to Brand Owner with Jason Brauner of Buzzard's Roost Dec 01, 2022

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
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Whiskey Quickie: Michter's Toasted Sour Mash Whiskey 2022 Review Nov 29, 2022

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.

TWiB: Pursuit Spirits Raises $8M, Jack Daniel’s vs Dog Toy in the Supreme Court, Old Elk and Greg Metze’s Infinity Blend Series Nov 25, 2022

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
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385 - Wine's Dirty Little Secret Meets Bourbon with Lee Tatum and Cody Ewers of Innerstave Nov 24, 2022

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
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Whiskey Quickie: Old Forester Birthday Bourbon 2022 Review Nov 22, 2022

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.

TWiB: Redemption Loses Lawsuit To Diageo, Sagamore Spirit Releases A 5YR Bottled in Bond, Kentucky Owl and Barrell Release $500 Bottles Nov 18, 2022

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
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384 - Is American Single Malt Trending? Has Sourcing Been Embraced? Thanksgiving That Isn't Wild Turkey on Bourbon Community Roundtable #74 Nov 17, 2022

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
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Whiskey Quickie: Knob Creek 18 Year Bourbon Review Nov 15, 2022

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.

TWiB: Western KY Distilling Announces $30M Distillery, Kroger’s Ultimate Bourbon Auction to End Hunger, Heaven Hill Announces Old Fitzgerald 19 Year Nov 11, 2022

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
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383 - Penny & Sparrow Pick a Barrel Nov 10, 2022

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
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Whiskey Quickie: 2022 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC) Review Nov 08, 2022

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.

TWiB: Campari Acquires Wilderness Trail for $420M, Limited-edition Old Forester King Ranch Edition, Lux Row Debuts Old Ezra 7-Year Rye Whiskey Nov 04, 2022

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
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382 - Building A Brand With No Distillery with Michael Paladini and Danny Polise of Penelope Bourbon Nov 03, 2022

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
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Whiskey Quickie: Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C922 Review Nov 01, 2022

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.

TWiB: Master Distiller Lisa Wicker Leaves Widow Jane, Another DTC Shipping Case Heads to Supreme Court, 2022 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection Details Oct 28, 2022

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 Collection
Show 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
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381 - The Rights and Wrongs of Barrel Finished Bourbons Oct 27, 2022

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?
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Whiskey Quickie: Russell’s Reserve Single Rickhouse Review Oct 25, 2022

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.

TWiB: Old Forester Names New Master Taster, New Riff Debuts Two New Malted Whiskeys, Blue Run Releases “Micro Batch” Flight Series Oct 21, 2022

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
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380 - Have Stickers Gone Too Far and What Makes A Good Acquisition Target? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #73 Oct 20, 2022

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
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Whiskey Quickie: Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond 17 Year (Spring 2022) Review Oct 18, 2022

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.

TWiB: Liquor Store Sued $50k Over Bob Baffert Sticker, The Only Bourbon Boat Tour Is Expanding, Britain’s First Bourbon Called Never Say Die Oct 14, 2022

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
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379 - Bourbon and Social Media: Keeping Compliant with Nichole Shustack of McDermott Will & Emery Oct 13, 2022

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
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Whiskey Quickie: Old Potrero Straight Rye Whiskey Review Oct 11, 2022

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.

TWiB: All Six Van Winkle Expressions Get Larger Relase, Widow Jane Distillery Announces The Vaults 2022, Knob Creek Officially Announces 18 Year Old Oct 07, 2022

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 expressions
Show 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
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378 - Is Added Text On Labels Distracting? Do I Use Unconventional Grains? How To Plan Distribution? Free Consulting Advice from Pursuit Oct 06, 2022

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 info@bourbonpursuit.com 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?
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Whiskey Quickie: Rare Hare 1953 Bourbon Review Oct 04, 2022

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.

TWiB: Bourbon Barrels and Taxes Reach New High in KY, Barrell Releasing Their 2022 Gray Label Bourbon, Wild Turkey Announces Master's Keep Unforgotten Sep 30, 2022

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
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377 - Architecting A Bourbon Distillery with Cash and Eric of Joseph & Joseph + Bravura Sep 29, 2022

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?
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Whiskey Quickie: Castle & Key Bourbon Review Sep 27, 2022

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.

TWiB: Former VA ABC Employee Pleads Guilty, Bardstown Bourbon Co Retires the Fusion Series, Makers Mark Releases Barrel Rotation Series Sep 23, 2022

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 series
Show 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
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376 - Do More Brands Signal an Oncoming Glut? Is Russell's Single Rickhouse Worthy of $250? Why Did Angel's Envy Hire A Master Distiller? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #72 Sep 22, 2022

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
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Whiskey Quickie: Chicken Cock Island Rooster Rum Barrel Rye Review Sep 20, 2022

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.

TWiB: Angel's Envy Gets a New Master Distiller, ISC Purchases Two Stave Mills From Brown-Forman, Diageo Wins Injuction Against Redemption Whiskey Sep 16, 2022

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
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375 - The Science of Whiskey Maturation with Ale Ochoa of TX Whiskey Sep 15, 2022

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
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Whiskey Quickie: O.K.I. Reserve Blended Bourbon Whiskey Review Sep 13, 2022

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.

TWiB: Pursuit Spirits Announces 13-City Road Trip Tour, Adam Herz Uncovers a Bourbon Faker in Omahaz, BBC Releases Chateau de Laubade Collaboration Sep 09, 2022

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 Laubade
Show 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
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374 - Why Should Brands Pay Attention to TikTok? with Logan and Mac Hanes of Basement Rickhouse Sep 08, 2022

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
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Whiskey Quickie: Frank August Bourbon Review Sep 06, 2022

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.

TWiB: Denny Potter and Jane Bowie Leave Maker's Mark, Blue Run Spirits Will Build A $51M Distillery, Debut of Russell’s Reserve Single Rickhouse Sep 02, 2022

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 Rickhouse
Show 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
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373 - Bold Innovations And Not Following Trends with Will Schragis of Barrell Craft Spirits Sep 01, 2022

It's only been in the past 10 years that we have seen bourbon go through true innovation. Barrel finishes and blending different distillates weren't as common as they are now. Barrell Craft Spirits has been a pioneer in this space. In this episode we're joined by Will Schragis the Chief Product Innovation Officer for Barrel Craft Sprits. Will has been around since the beginning of Barrell and he tells how they approach innovating new products and the stories behind some of their most highly acclaimed and in-demand product extensions like Dovetail and Seagrass.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about blending subpar whiskey
What were the early days like trying to establish the Barrell Bourbon brand?
How do you deal with UPC code sprawl?
What challenges do you experience with this business model of doing so many unique things?
How do you scale Seagrass from a finishing standpoint?
How do you determine what factors go into process innovation?
Does constant customer education play a role with innovation?
How can American whiskey move beyond blend being a dirty word?
How can you be transparent when barrels need to be reconditioned?
Do the micro-blends serve as a training ground for new products?
Why has there not been a specifically toasted product yet?
Can you explain why $500 gold label demanded the price?
Was Stellum a way to introduce a lower price tag into the line?
@barrellbourbon
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Whiskey Quickie: Hardin’s Creek Colonel James B. Beam Whiskey Review Aug 30, 2022

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

TWiB: Kentucky Bourbon Benefit Raises $1.4M, Little Book Series Launches “To The Finish”, Four Roses 2022 Limited Edition Small Batch Aug 26, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for August 26th 2022. The Kentucky Bourbon Benefit raises $1.4M. Freddie Noe has released the sixth chapter in his acclaimed Little Book Whiskey series, “To The Finish.” Four Roses Distillery has announced its 2022 Limited Edition Small Batch Bourbon.
Show Notes:

The Kentucky Bourbon Benefit raises $1.4M
Woodford Reserve is creating a sensory experience at Charles De Gaulle Airport in Paris, France
The Macallan partners with luxury automotive Bentley Motors in new release
Buffalo Trace Distillery announces the Buffalo Trace Bourbon Heritage Month Collection
Kentucky’s Original Black Bourbon Enthusiasts are bringing back their 5th Annual Bourbon & Benevolence Tasting & Charity Auction
Campari Group buys a 15% minority stake in Howler Head
Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey has been ranked among the top 1,000 companies honored on the 2022 Inc. 5000 list
Louisville Bourbon Transit Co releases the fifth batch of Bedtime Bourbon
Freddie Noe has released the sixth chapter in his acclaimed Little Book Whiskey series, “To The Finish.”
Michter’s Distillery will release its US*1 Toasted Barrel Sour Mash Whiskey
Shirakawa 1958 Single Malt, believed to be ‘the world’s rarest Japanese whisky’, will be distributed worldwide
Barrell Craft Spirits will introduce Barrell Vantage
Four Roses to releases 16-year-old OESV barrels
Four Roses Distillery has announced its 2022 Limited Edition Small Batch Bourbon
@woodfordreserve @the_macallan @bentleymotors @buffalotracedistillery @buffalotrace @502kobbe @campariofficial @campariusa @howlerheadwhiskey @uncleanearest @beamgeneration8 @michterswhiskey @barrellbourbon @fourrosesbourbon
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372 - Lines vs Lotteries, Bourbon Hall of Fame Criteria, and the Cheapest Bottle To Own on Bourbon Community Roundtable #71 Aug 25, 2022

It’s Bourbon Community Roundtable #71 where we are joined by the likes of all of our friends to talk about some hot topics in the recent bourbon news. Up first, we discuss lotteries vs lines. Now that Old Forester and Four Roses have announced they are no longer going to sell their limited birthday bourbon and small batch editions in the gift shop to local Kentuckians from people camping out, it has moved to a nationwide sweepstakes where anyone can enter. So, is this the beginning of the end for waiting in lines for bourbon? The Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame is inducting six new people. There is criteria to make it, but what criteria would we consider to be in our hall of fame? Lastly, we look at an old topic which is what is the cheapest bottle you need to own?

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about whiskey for medicinal purposes
Is Waiting in Line Dead?
What's the criteria for the Bourbon Hall of Fame?
What is the cheapest bottle worth having?
@oldforester @fourrosesbourbon @kentuckybourbontrail @breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn
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Whiskey Quickie: Jack Daniel’s Small Batch Coy Hill High Proof Review Aug 23, 2022

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

TWiB: Bourbon Hall of Fame Inducts Six Individuals, King of Kentucky Has Two Releases, Old Forester Birthday Turns To A Sweepstakes Aug 19, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for August 19th 2022. The Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame will induct six new individuals.King of Kentucky packs two new 15 and 18year old releases. Old Forester Birthday Bourbon Allocation Goes Into A National Sweepstakes
Show Notes:

Rally is selling 2,000 shares at $7 each for a six-bottle collection of Pappy Van Winkle
Beam Suntory has double-digit net sales growth for the first half of 2022
Wigle Whiskey sells to the owner of the Pittsburgh Pirates
Hard Seltzer and RTD shares increase in 2022 from IWSR
The Scottish government will review if the angels’ share has health and environmental impacts
The Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame will induct six new individuals
Ross & Squibb Distillery announce Remus Repeal Reserve Series VI Straight Bourbon Whiskey
King of Kentucky packs two new 15 and 18 year old releases
@rally @jdflicker @robbreport @beamsuntory @wiglewhiskey @brownforman @kentuckybourbontrail
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371 - Is Bourbon Overcrowded? with Chad and Sara of It's Bourbon Night Aug 18, 2022

Some people will say we are currently experiencing a bourbon shortage. However, if you go to your local store you will see it's quite the opposite. There are walls of bourbon and with so many labels it's hard to know where everything comes from. To help dig through this topic I've invited Chad & Sara from It's Bourbon Night to join the show. We talk about how they met and how they've grown their YouTube channel into one of the premier places on the internet to get informative opinions on the latest whiskey releases as well as the favorite amongst many YouTubers, lists and top 10s.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about opening bottles prior to purchase for allocated bottles
When did you start your YouTube channel?
Do you remember your first video?
Are there some videos that never get published?
Have you figured out the formula to get the mosts views possible?
How have you been able to combat the negative comments that come on the internet?
Have you had to pivot on how you create content and find new audiences?
Have you started to see an overcrowding of brands on the market?
Is there such a thing as a "bad run" of MGP barrels?
Will MGP still be the go-to source in 5 or 10 years?
When production catches up, how do you determine who get space on the shelf?
What will hurt the bourbon market the most?
Are celebrity whiskey brands going to overcrowd the market?
Will we start seeing labels begin to fail?
@itsbourbonnight
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Whiskey Quickie: Ben Holladay Bottled-In-Bond Bourbon Review Aug 16, 2022

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

TWiB: Maker’s Mark Honors Marjorie Samuels, 11 American Whiskey Trends in 2022, Antheum Studios Present Assassin’s Creed Bourbon Aug 12, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for August 5th 2022. An Israeli distillery makes country’s first Kentucky bourbon-style whiskey. Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board members are investigated after buying leftover Pappy lottery bottles. Goose Island Bourbon County Stout announces 7 variants for this year's release.
Show Notes:

Revival Vintage Bottle Shop to Open New Location This Fall at North by Hotel Covington
High West announced its Protect the West initiative and Campfire Release
Maker’s Mark is honoring its co-founder, Marjorie Samuels, with the opening of a special permanent vestibule
11 American Whiskey Trends in 2022 from Beverage Dynamics Magazine
The World’s 10 Most Valuable Spirits Brands (2022)
Caskshare is set to launch The Big Lie aimed at Trump
Breckenridge Distillery and the Denver Broncos announced two new limited-edition Mile High Bourbon Blends
Old Overholt Straight Rye Whiskey will increase to a four-year age statement
Antheum Studios and Tennessee Legend Distillery present Assassin’s Creed Straight Bourbon Whiskey
@revivalvintagespirits @drinkhighwest @makersmark @beveragedynamics @caskshare @breckdistillary @broncos @old_overholt_official @jimbeam @beamsuntory @antheumstudios
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370 - Evolving a Modern Bourbon Brand with Kaveh Zamanian of Rabbit Hole Aug 11, 2022

Every brand finds their path. Some will talk about their grains sourced right on their farm. Some will rely on a historical figure from decades ago. But for Rabbit Hole, it's been about being a modern brand. Kaveh Zamanian makes his return to the show to talk about how the brand has changed in the few years since we had him on last. We discuss how their brand and liquid has evolved, how they are reaching into new demographics, his take on their new series of high end innovations and collaborations and a past time favorite of all of ours, dusty hunting.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about being Fred Minnick
Why don't you go by Doctor Z?
Did you originally intend the distillery to be built for Fred to have a 24-hour fermentation sleepover?
Is the location of the distillery challenged by location since it's in a popular location?
What are you doing to keep up with demand?
Are you positioning yourself as a modern brand?
Has the consumer mindset changed over the past few years now that the brand has grown?
How do you collect your demographic data?
What approach are you taking that you have such a high female consumer-base?
How were you able to create no market confusion with your expressions?
Why do you have a fascination with malting?
Can you tell from the malting process that something will work or do you have to see it all the way through?
What makes your 10 year blend and the 16 year french oak release special?
What does the Founder's Collection mean to you as this was introduced?
How did you get hooked up with Starlino?
Are there barriers to entry as you grow and expand into international markets?
Are bartenders or stores the best way to spend your resources for getting to market?
How has your dusty hunting collection going?
Are you trying to recreate some of your favorite dusties?
@rabbithole @kzrabbithole
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Whiskey Quickie: Buzzard's Roost Cigar Rye Review Aug 09, 2022

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

TWiB: Israeli Distillery Makes Bourbon-Style Whiskey, PLCB Execs Get Leftover Pappy Lottery Bottles, Goose Island Bourbon County Stout Has 7 Variants Aug 05, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for August 5th 2022. An Israeli distillery makes country’s first Kentucky bourbon-style whiskey. Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board members are investigated after buying leftover Pappy lottery bottles. Goose Island Bourbon County Stout announces 7 variants for this year's release.
Show Notes:

The silent auction for Eastern Kentucky flood victims starts Aug 11th
An Israeli distillery makes country’s first Kentucky bourbon-style whiskey
Jim Beam has revealed plans to invest more than US$400 million to expand the Booker Noe Distillery
TTB proposes to include “American single malt whisky” as a distinctive product of the United States
Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board members are investigated after buying leftover Pappy lottery bottles
Buzzard’s Roost Whiskey is celebrating its third anniversary with a pair of new bourbon releases
Lux Row announced Daviess County Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Lightly Toasted American Oak Barrels
American Mash & Grain releases Borrowed Page Volume 1
Barrell Craft Spirits releases BCS Gray Label Dovetail
Goose Island Bourbon County Stout announces 7 variants for this year's release
@fredminnick @jimbeam @buzardsroostwhiskey @daveisscountybourbon @barrellbourbon @gooseisland @mashngrain
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369 - History and Story of Blade & Bow with Doug Kragel of Diageo Aug 04, 2022

You've probably heard of the legendary Stitzel-Weller distillery. Getting a taste of whiskey created by this famous place is nearly impossible for the average person. But, there is one opportunity that remains where you can get just a hint at the greatness. Doug Kragel joins the show to give us the history and in-depth breakdown of Blade & Bow. As a brand educator he knows all about the products in the Diageo portfolio and we try and dig into more about the identity of these whiskeys. And to make everyone jealous, we even get to drink the limited 22 year old release.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about distribution markups
How did you get into a role of an ambassador or brand educator?
What was the George Dickel brand like when you started?
How do you determine criteria for an accelerator program?
Why was Blade & Bow created?
How does a partnership form to get whiskey to make this brand without revealing sources?
What's the difference between fractional blending vs solera?
Is there a team or a single master blender?
What if I challenged you and said are there really 20 year old barrels being dumped in the blend?
Why only have a small still at Stitzel-Weller and not try to recreate the magic it once had?
Why have partnership with Garden & Gun at the distillery?
What is the next phase of growth for Blade & Bow?
What does a membership to the Five Keys Club get you?
Why do a 22 Year Blade & Bow vs another Orphan Barrel?
Will we ever see Bulleit distilled whiskey go into Blade & Bow?
@bladeandbowwhiskey @stitzelwellerdistillery
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Whiskey Quickie: Blue Run Reflection 1 Straight Bourbon Review Aug 02, 2022

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

TWiB: Possible Tax Cuts for Kentucky Bourbon Producers, Spirit of Gallo Invests in Horse Soldier Bourbon, Four Gate Drops Four New Releases Jul 29, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for July 29th 2022. A Task force is being formed to investigate and possibly lower taxes imposed on Kentucky bourbon. Spirit of Gallo has invested in Horse Soldier Bourbon.Four Gate drops 4 new releases
Show Notes:

A Task force is being formed to investigate and possibly lower taxes imposed on Kentucky bourbon
Castle & Key now has an AirBNB
A free resource for learning called “Bourbon School” on YouTube by Henrik Brandt
Spirit of Gallo has invested in Horse Soldier Bourbon
21c Museum Hotel’s original Louisville location is an official, top-level Barrel sponsor of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail
Old Louisville Whiskey is coming to Kentucky in early August
ASW Distillery is releasing Fiddler Chin Music that commemorates the Atlanta Braves’ 2021 Championship run
291 Colorado Whiskey and Master Blender Marianne Eaves collaborate on 291 “E” Eaves Release
Four Gate Whiskey Company has announced four new releases
@horsesoldierbourbon @castleandkey @the_bourbon_nerd @21clouisville @21clexington @21chotels @oldlouisvillewhiskeyco @aswdistillery @braves @distillery291 @mariannebmd @fourgatewhiskey
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368 - Does Heritage Matter and Why Are We Attracted to Finishes? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #70 Jul 28, 2022

The roundtable is our monthly show where we look at new and interesting angles for the bourbon ecosystem. Marketing plays a big role in whiskey. There always needs to be a story that sells the brand. Last week, an article in VinePair sparked the question as to whether or not you need heritage for American whiskey. How important is it to have a deep lineage to bourbon and is that necessary for customer appeal? In the second half of the show, we break down finished bourbons and why in the past few years have we seen a big surge and what makes that attractive to more consumers.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the history of barrel proof bourbon.
Does heritage matter in American whiskey?
Why are we attracted to finished bourbons?
@vinepair @bourbonr @breakingbourbon @sippn_corn
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Whiskey Quickie: Rossville Union 2022 Barrel Proof Rye Whiskey Review Jul 26, 2022

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

TWiB: Herz Tracks Down a Counterfeiter from Wisconsin, Bourbon Women SIPosiumTickets Now on Sale, 2022 Yellowstone Limited Edition by Limestone Jul 22, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for July 22nd 2022. Bourbon Women SIPosium details are in and tickets are available. Herz tracks down a counterfeiter who sold bottles through Unicorn Auctions. Limestone Branch Distillery announces the 2022 Yellowstone Limited Edition.

Show Notes:

Update on Heaven Hill from an enthusiast who saw line cheating
Buffalo Trace plans to add a new tourism and dining destination
The Catholic Education Foundation's inaugural online bourbon raffle raised $105,000
The Bourbon Women's annual SIPosium Conference August 25 to 28, 2022
Adam Herz busts a Wisconsin man who sold over $18k in counterfeit bourbons via Unicorn Auctions
Timberwolf Whiskey is launched and caters to outdoors enthusiasts
Brother’s Bond launches its first limited-release, Brother’s Bond Original Cask Strength Bourbon
Arcane Distilling introduces its flagship whiskey, Arcane Alpha
A team of four friends and founders announce the release of Hidden Barn Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Limestone Branch Distillery announces the 2022 Yellowstone Limited Edition
@bourbonwomen @unicornchicago @heavenhilldistillery @buffalotracedistillery @brothersbondbourbon @arcane_nyc @hidden_barn @yellowstonebourbon @limestonebranch
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367 - The Literal Rockstar of Bourbon with Bo Garrett of Montgomery Gentry and Wild Turkey Jul 21, 2022

There's not many people in the bourbon industry that have a story like our guest. Bo Garrett wanted a better life than working in the coal mines of eastern Kentucky. He picked up a guitar and left for Lexington, Kentucky to be discovered. He met some key people that would change his life forever and spent over 20 years together on the road as the lead guitarist for Montgomery Gentry while being sponsored by Jim Beam. After the tragic passing of Troy Montgomery, it sent Bo to a dark place and he needed something. After a fateful run-in with Jimmy Russell while having dinner with Fred Noe, he started giving tours at Wild Turkey and discovered a new passion and became one of their esteemed Brand Builders. After you hear this story, you will see that Bo is the literal rockstar of the bourbon world.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about proofing based on taste or most money
Did you have a family history in moonshining?
When did you start getting into playing guitar?
What genre did you first start with?
What did the music career really take off?
What was your best and worst tour experience?
Do you miss life on the road and touring?
What is your guitar of choice?
Do you still keep in touch with everyone in the band?
How did Booker Beam and Montgomery Gentry come together?
Do you look back on your days on the road and wish you hunted more?
What made you want to be a tour guide at Wild Turkey when you weren't touring?
How are you finding historical information and pictures to share on social media?
Are you digging up more history on Jimmy Russell as you spend time with him?
What else are you doing as a Brand Builder at Wild Turkey?
@wildturkey @montgomerygentry
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Whiskey Quickie: Basil Hayden Subtle Smoke Bourbon Review Jul 19, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Basil Hayden Subtle Smoke. This non-age stated bourbon is 80 proof and $50 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!

DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

TWiB: Heaven Hill Suspends Special Releases, Bardstown Bourbon Releases Discovery #8 and #9, Heaven’s Door Announces the Decade Series Jul 15, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for July 15th 2022. Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience is currently in the process of changing their special releases. Bardstown Bourbon Company releases Discovery #8 and Discovery #9. Heaven’s Door Spirits announces the inaugural release of its Decade Series.
Show Notes:

A global shortage of bourbon has led to a lack of cheap RTDs in New Zealand
Securities Commissioner in Texas dismissed a cease and desist order against Whiskey & Wealth Club
Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience is currently in the process of changing their special releases
An ABC investigation led to four felony indictments against two men sharing Virginia ABC liquor store information
Copper & Kings has launched a new tour and bourbon
Bardstown Bourbon Company releases Discovery #8 and Discovery #9
Barrell Bourbon Batch 033 is announced
Heaven’s Door Spirits announces the inaugural release of its Decade Series
Woodford Reserve releases its annual limited-edition Batch Proof.
Second Booker’s Bourbon batch of its 2022 collection is here, “The Lumberyard Batch.”
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366 - From Archeologist to Bourbon and Dusty Expert with Caroline Paulus Jul 14, 2022

We all come from different backgrounds, yet we all find a passion in bourbon. One of the most intriguing stories I have ever been introduced to is from our guest today, Caroline Paulus. Her first love and her area of study is archeology. She had no idea that coming to Kentucky from Wisconsin on a dig would lead her into a new career in bourbon. She is fascinated with the history of whiskey and that has made her become one of the leading authorities when it comes to analyzing dusties. As the whiskey historian at Justin's House of Bourbon and senior editor for The Bourbon Review, she tells her story about falling into this line of work and some stories about running one of the best stores dedicated to bourbon in Kentucky.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about distilling presence during World War II
Was whiskey ever a thing in your household or did you discover it later in life?
Why do people from Wisconsin ruin an old fashioned?
What was your original archeology digs in Kentucky focused on?
How do you make the jump from being an archeologists to getting into bourbon?
How are you now after losing your senses to COVID?
Who taught you to get comfortable tasting whiskey?
At what point do you become a whiskey historian?
Have you been able to spot fake dusties?
What's the most popular item sold at Justin's House of Bourbon?
Can you try to hand sell me a dusty bourbon?
@houseofbourbonlex @houseofbourbonky @houseofbourbonlou @bourbonreview @misswhiskeyhistorian
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Whiskey Quickie: Blood Oath Pact 8 Bourbon Review Jul 12, 2022

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

TWiB: Bardstown Bourbon Company To Acquire Green River, Jackie Zykan Announces Hidden Barn, Russell's Reserve 13 Coming Soon Jul 08, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for July 8th 2022. Bardstown Bourbon Company has entered into an agreement to acquire Green River Spirits Company. Jackie Zykan announces her next venture called Hidden Barn. Russell's Reserve 13 is now an annual release with the next one coming soon.
Show Notes:

Bardstown Bourbon Company has entered into an agreement to acquire Green River Spirits Company
Jackie Zykan announces her next venture called Hidden Barn
Malcolm Jenkins joins as a Board Member and Investor of New Liberty Distillery
Pernod Ricard is creating a dedicated business unit called The American Whiskey Collective
New Riff Distilling broke ground on a 40,000 barrel warehouse
Disney unveils $5000 drink on new cruise
CULPER BRO’S 355 is a new bourbon for the UK market
Old Forester Distilling Co. announcesThe 117 Series – Whiskey Row Fire
Silver Screen Bottling and Alan Jackson release Silverbelly
Russell's Reserve 13 is now an annual release with the next one coming soon
Diageo and The Vita Coco Company announce a new series of Captain Morgan RTDs
@bardstownbourbonco @jackiezykan @malcolmjenkins @pernodricard @newriff @disneycruisline @oldforester @officialalanjackson @russellsreservebourbon @vitacoco
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365 - Is Sourced Bourbon Sustainable? with John Little of Smooth Ambler Jul 07, 2022

Smooth Ambler made a name for themselves with Old Scout. It was before the big craze of higher-aged sourced MGP when it was relatively easy to find. But, all good things come to an end and now they had to figure out how to keep that business sustainable. John Little, Founder of Smooth Ambler, joins the show once again to talk about why transparently sourcing whiskey was a critical component of the business. John feels they made plenty of mistakes early on and are trying to recapture the glory Old Scout once had. We dive into the economics of the sourced market of increased costs and what the future holds for their own distilled whiskey.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the best introduction to bourbon flights
How hard was it to take a step back from being involved with every facet of the business?
Why did sourcing whiskey never leave your business?
Did the market dictate Old Scout's trajectory?
Why not shut down the still and go all-in on sourced product?
Did you ever think about putting Old Scout to the side once your distilled product was ready?
What future modeling did you use to figure out when to put down new make or just purchase aged inventory?
What was the reaction when Old Scout went off the market and back on?
Why was transparency so important when it came to telling the Old Scout story?
Besides capital, what initial challenges do you have sourcing whiskey?
How much better have you gotten at projecting pipeline and future growth?
Aged stock has increased significantly, so how are you handling this?
As barrel prices increase are you absorbing costs or planning on passing on those costs?
@smoothambler
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Whiskey Quickie: Blade and Bow 22 Year Bourbon Review Jul 05, 2022

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

TWiB: Catoctin Creek and GWAR Team Up Again, Jack Daniel's Introduces Coy Hill High Proof, Stellum Black Announces Specialty Blends Jul 01, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for July 1st 2022. Catoctin Creek Distilling Co. and heavy metal rock band legends GWAR are back for the second annual release. Jack Daniel introduces Small Batch Special Release Coy Hill High Proof in 375ml bottles. Stellum Spirits introduces Stellum Black specialty blends.
Show Notes:

Scotch Whiskey exports gave the UK $175 per second in 2021
Researchers released a report on the economic impact Texas distillers made
Limestone Branch Distillery has donated $25,000 to aid floods impacting Yellowstone National Park
Five new laws passed for licensees and applicants of Virginia
Catoctin Creek Distilling Co. and GWAR are back for the second annual release
Hotaling & Co. relaunches Old Potrero Straight Rye Whiskey
Redbreast has unveiled Kentucky Oak as the first release in its new American Oak series
High West Distillery has launched the 2022 edition of its Spring Rendezvous Rye
Jack Daniel introduces Small Batch Special Release Coy Hill High Proof
Stellum Spirits introduces Stellum Black specialty blends
@limestonebranch @yellowstonenp @abc_va @catoctincreek @gwar @hotalingandco @redbreastwhiskeyus @drinkhighwest @jackdaniels_us @stellumspirits
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364 - Is Jackie Zykan replaceable? King's County vs Irish Whiskey, and Can Stickers Violate Copyright? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #69 Jun 30, 2022

I know you've missed it, but the roundtable is back for another big show talking about spicy topics. The big news of Jackie Zykan leaving Old Forester made waves in the bourbon world. Is she a replaceable asset to Brown-Forman and what happens with the 117 series? King's County and the Irish Whiskey Association are in a battle over the use of "irish-style" whiskey on the label. Who should give an inch here? Would we be up in arms if someone outside the US used "bourbon-style" on their label? And there's always more sticker talk but this time we go over the use of copyright and trademarks on different distilleries bottles.

Show Notes:

Jackie Zykan is leaving Old Forester. What do we think will happen to the brand? Is she replaceable?
King's County and the Irish Whiskey Association are in a battle. King's County created an "irish-style" whiskey and the IWA sent a cease and desist. What would we think if a distillery in Ireland created a "bourbon-style" whiskey and put that on the label?
Stickers are going less than subtle now. In the case of copyright issues, should distilleries start caring more?
@bourbonr @breakingbourbon @sippn_corn
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Whiskey Quickie: Yellowstone Family Recipe Bourbon Review Jun 28, 2022

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

TWiB: Jackie Zykan Steps Away From Old Forester, King’s County and Irish Whiskey Assoc. Battle, Bardstown Bourbon Collab with Plantation Rum Jun 24, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for June 24th 2022. Master Taster Jackie Zykan steps away from Old Forester. King’s County Distillery has been served a cease-and-desist letter by the Irish Whiskey Association. Bardstown Bourbon Company’s newest Collaborative Series with Plantation Rum

Show Notes:

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

Toasted barrels are all the rage right now, but why? Do they taste better than the regular bourbon counterparts? Or has the consumer shifted their taste profile? In this episode, the Bourbon Pursuit team sits down and blind tastes our way through four samples and we ponder on many questions in the toasted category. Where did it start? Do different mashbills effect the outcome? and Where should the line be drawn on what's acceptable? We examine this and a lot more as we also pick our favorite in the lineup.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about dusty bourbon taste
We blind Woodford Reserve Double Oak, Elijah Craig Toasted, Michter's Toasted Barrel, and Wild Turkey One
Where did we see the first ever release of toasted barrels?
Do different mashbills effect a toasted release?
Why aren't toasted barrel releases transparent with the time spent in the barrel?
Why did Woodford make their toasted Double Oaka line extension while others are limited editions?
Why you think double oak finishing will explode because of young bourbon?
Will toasted barrels be a mainstay or a trend?
How does barrel entry proof effect the toasted barrel?
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Whiskey Quickie: Kentucky Owl Bourbon St. Patrick’s Edition (2022) Review Jun 21, 2022

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

TWiB: Is Bourbon Losing to Tequila and Mezcal?, WhistlePig Launches Two Bottled-in-Bond Whiskeys, Pursuit United Wins Best Bourbon at Barleycorn Jun 17, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for June 17th 2022. Pursuit United has been crowned “Best Bourbon” at the 2022 John Barleycorn Awards. Is bourbon losing popularity to tequila and mezcal? WhistlePig has launched two new bottled-in-bond whiskeys.
Show Notes:

Pursuit United has been crowned “Best Bourbon” at the 2022 John Barleycorn Awards for Spring
Is bourbon losing popularity to tequila and mezcal?
Brindiamo Group released a new video series called "The Business of Bourbon"
Ezra Brooks 99 and Rebel 100 brands will be available in 1.75L bottles
Pennsylvania may get rid of government-ran liquor sales
Nine distilleries have joined forces to create the Sonoma County Distillery Pass
Michigan Craft Distillers Association announced the Michigan Distilled Festival
Boundary Oak Distillery announces a $4 million expansion
The annual Kentucky Bourbon Affair fantasy camp won’t happen in September 2022
Hella Cocktail Co. announced a $5 million investment from Uncle Nearest
Dream Theater guitarist John Petrucci unveiled Rock the Barrel 2
O’Shaughnessy Distilling Co. has launched Keeper’s Heart Bourbon + Irish
Goodwood Brewing + Spirits is releasing a collaboration with Three Chord Bourbon
Frank August 100 Proof Small Batch Bourbon has been announced
Brown-Forman Corporation and The Coca-Cola Company announced Jack & Coke RTD
Nevada Distilling has a new product called Smoke Wagon Uncut The Younger
WhistlePig has launched two new bottled-in-bond whiskeys
@pursuitspirits @ezrabrooksbourbon @jackdaniels_us @brindiamogroup @rebelbourbon @sonomacounty @mispirits @boundaryoakdistillery @ky_bourbonaffair @hellacocktailco @johnpetrucciofficial @ironsmoke @odistillingco @goodwoodbrewing @threechordbourbon @thefrankaugust @brownforman @cocacola @smokewagonwhiskey @whistlepigwhiskey
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362 - 25 Years of Jefferson's Bourbon with Trey Zoeller Jun 16, 2022

If you saw a market that was a sinking ship, would you jump on board? That was bourbon 25 years ago when clear spirits were winning. Trey Zoeller joins the show once again to reflect on the past 25 years. We dive into what it was like trying to break into a community that didn't want newcomers and the hurdles that came along with it. Not to mention, how he could get great barrels of bourbon for a steal because no one wanted them. Lastly, we talk about the lightbulb moment of Ocean that has truly become his signature on the industry and if we will ever see Jefferson's Space Aged.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about looking for flavors on white dog
You were 28 years old when you started Jefferson's in 1997, tell us about that time.
How did you know that there was a bunch of aged whiskey sitting around to buy?
What was is like trying to sell whiskey between 1997 and 2002?
Did you ever think about closing up shop and quit selling whiskey?
Were you welcome to whiskey festivals?
Why did Brown Forman and Heaven Hill send you a cease and desist?
What hurdles did you have with sourcing early on and how did you get ahead of it?
How did you handle the call when it came to buying the 17yr Stitzel-Weller barrels?
When did you realize you were running out of 17yr barrels and you had to do something different?
Tell us the background on Ocean and the lightbulb moment
At any given time, how many barrels do you have at sea or on river?
How many voyages are you up to now?
When can we expect Jefferson's Space Aged?
@jeffersonsbourbon
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Whiskey Quickie: Jack Daniel’s Triple Mash Whiskey Review Jun 14, 2022

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

TWiB: Heaven Hill Breaks Ground on New Distillery, Wilderness Trail Release an 8-year Bourbon, Playboy Has a Bourbon with Rare Hare Jun 10, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for June 10th 2022. Heaven Hill broke ground on a $135 million distillery called Heaven Hill Springs Distillery, Wilderness Trail announces the release of first 8-year bourbon, Playboy is releasing their first bourbon called Rare Hare 1953 Anniversary Edition
Show Notes:

Heaven Hill broke ground on a $135 million distillery called Heaven Hill Springs Distillery
Four Roses Bourbon will investing $23M in new warehouses
Bulleit vs Redemption Rye lawsuit gets a verdict
Maker’s® 46 announces partnership with flavor company Spiceology
Edible QR codes could authenticate whiskey
Booker’s Batch 2022-01 released called “Ronnie’s Batch”
Frey Ranch Distillery releases a limited-edition Single Barrel Rye
Wyoming Whiskey announces release of limited edition National Parks No. 2
Cascade Moon 15 Year Old Barrel Proof
Woodford Reserve releases new Distillery Series bottle, Toasted Oak Oat Grain
Playboy releases Rare Hare 1953 Anniversary Edition
@heavenhilldistillery @bulleit @bulleitwhiskey @fourrosesbourbon @makersmark @freyranchdistillery @wyomingwhiskey @cascadehollowdistillingco @woodfordreserve @playboy
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361 - From Bourbon Enthusiast to Retail Store Owner with Luke Castle of Ace Spirits Jun 09, 2022

Many of us have a passion for bourbon but I'm not sure we think to ourselves, "I want to run my own liquor store." Our guest today took that leap. Luke Castle makes his return to the show but not to talk about being a bourbon enthusiast but to talk about his new endeavor taking ownership of Ace Spirits, it's a retail shop in Minnesota who you may have heard about from a prior guest when we talked about moving volume with shipping. Luke puts it out there for those wanting to learn about the business and answers the questions many of us want to know as bourbon consumers such as distributors, barrel picks, allocation, and figuring out what determines a best customer.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about XYZ
You were back on Episode 166, but tell folks how you got into bourbon.
What made you want to leap into the business after being an enthusiast?
What did you want to change to make it your version of Ace Spirits?
What's the currently landscape for direct to consumer in Minnesota?
What would direct to consumer mean to you as a retailer if it opened up or shut down completely?
Are you starting to see the decrease of allocated barrel picks happen?
What are the new brands people are getting excited about?
Do you prefer a small or large distributer to buy from?
Do distributors and brand reps just show up randomly to try and push stuff?
What do you find the most challenging aspect of owning a liquor store that you didn't know about?
What is your method for selling allocated bourbon?
Are you figuring out your best customers through a rewards program?
What is your method for growth to find new customers?
@acespirits
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Whiskey Quickie: Sunday's Finest Gold Fashioned Review Jun 07, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Sunday's Finest Gold Fashioned. This non-age stated ready to drink cocktail is 84.4 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.

TWiB: TTB Proposes Removing Bottle Size Regulations, New World Record for the Largest Bottle, J. Rieger & Co. Release First Bottled-in-Bond Jun 03, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for June 3rd 2022. The TTB proposes removing all standard bottle sizes for spirits, A new Guinness Book of World Records has been set for the largest bottle of whisky ever sold, J. Rieger & Co. recently released its first bottled-in-bond straight bourbon whiskey.
Show Notes:

TTB proposes removing all standard bottle sizes for spirits
Frazier Museum in downtown Louisville is bringing back Michter's Speakeasy
New Guinness Book of World Records has been set for the largest bottle of whisky ever sold - The Intrepid
Tarnished Truth launched new barrel pick experience
Mashed "The Simple Hack That Will Take Cheap Bourbon To The Next Level"
Next Century Spirits has launched Bear Fight American Single Malt Whiskey
Victor George Spirits launches Fort Mosé 1738
Chattanooga Whiskey releases their Bottled in Bond Vintage Series: Spring 2018 Vintage
J. Rieger & Co. releases its first bottled-in-bond straight bourbon whiskey
@frazierhistorymuseum @usmacallan @the_macallan @tarnishedtruth @mashedfood @thisismashed @nextcenturyspirits @vgvodka @chattwhiskey @jriegerco
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360 - The Secret To Finding Great Bourbon... And What Not To Do Jun 02, 2022

We are skipping the roundtable this month because of Memorial Day timing so I wanted to bring another great session that we had at our Whiskey From Home event. I'm joined by David Jennings of RareBird101, Caroline Paulus of The Bourbon Review and Justin's House of Bourbon, and Pops from Bourbon & Banter as we talk about the secret to finding great bourbon, but at the same time, what are the fatal flaws people make when hunting. This was streamed to over 50k people and if you want to watch all the replays just head over to whiskeyfromhome.com.

Show Notes:

What is the current state of affair for hunting limited edition bourbons?
Is this a good time to be hunting rare bourbon?
Are single barrel selections today's unicorn?
Does it take good friends and connections?
What are good options on how you can find really good whiskey today?
Are you looking for off-profile or something that will sell for single barrels?
What are the cardinal sins of hunting bourbon?
@rarebird101 @houseofbourbonlex @houseofbourbonlou @misswhiskeyhistorian @bourbonbanter
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Whiskey Quickie: Westward American Single Malt Cask Strength Review May 31, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Westward American Single Malt Cask Strength Whiskey. This non-age stated whiskey is 125 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.

TWiB: Wild Turkey Advertising Backfires on Spotify, Jim Beam Launches Hardin's Creek, Dixon Dedman Announces 2XO May 27, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for May 27th 2022. Spotify accidentally advertises Wild Turkey on every podcast in a bad way, Jim Beam launches Hardin's Creek, and Dixon Dedman announces his highly anticipated next creation 2XO.
Show Notes:

Spotify accidentally advertises Wild Turkey on every podcast and it backfires in a bad way
Jim Beam announces the global launch of Welcome Sessions with Muse
Florida Craft Spirits Association launches The Florida Distillery Trail
Jim Beam is launching a new line extension called Hardin's Creek
Barrell Craft Spirits will introduce BCS Gold Label Seagrass
Balcones Distilling announces Big Baby 2022
Cedar Ridge Distillery is set to release a commemorative label on its Iowa Bourbon
Milam & Greene Whiskey second release of The Castle Hill Series Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Sagamore Spirit announces the national launch of its ready-to-drink canned craft cocktails
Smooth Ambler is launching Founders’ Cask Strength Series Bourbon
Rabbit Hole presents Nevallier Founder's Collection Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in French Oak
Dixon Dedman announces his highly anticipated next creation, 2XO Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
@wildturkey @spotify @jimbeamofficial @floridacraftspirits @barrellbourbon @balconesdistilling @cedarridgeiowa @milamandgreenewhiskey @sagamorespirit @rabbithole @dixon_dedman
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359 - Innovative Digital Strategies for Bourbon Marketing with Brandon Smith of Bardstown Bourbon Company May 26, 2022

Gone are the days of paying for billboards, newspaper, and bench ads and bus stop. Everyone has the capability to access a world of information right in the palm of their hand. If you're like me, you're checking your email 50 times a day and getting hit with notifications across multiple social platforms and other apps that demand your attention. But as a bourbon brand, how do you capitalize on the digital space? Brandon Smith joins the show to talk about how he is building a digital strategy at Bardstown Bourbon Co. We talk about how to gather data and develop A/B testing to figure out which digital ads work. But we also talk about platforms and influencer engagement to encompass the realm of digital trends. So if you are a bourbon brand, here's your chance to take a few notes.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about why rye whiskey labels are green
Talk about your introduction into whiskey and led you into growing a popular instagram account @thedailydram
Did you take on a big career change to get into bourbon?
What was Bardstown Bourbon Co's vision for a digital strategy?
How do you create a story for your brand if you're a new entrant into the market?
How are you turn a story into a digital asset?
How did you examine the data to determine who is tied to your brand?
What have you found to be successful as engaging content?
How do you decide how to follow a trend?
How long do you have to react to a trend before it becomes stale?
Is there more value in someone else creating content vs being done by the brand?
Where do you place your bets with influencers based on followers?
How do you measure success for a digital campaign?
@bardstownbourbonco
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Whiskey Quickie: Dexter Three Wood Straight Bourbon Whiskey Review May 24, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Dexter Three Wood Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This non-age stated bourbon is 100.6 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.

TWiB: EXCLUSIVE: Evan Williams Single Barrel Removed from National Markets with Josh Hafer of Heaven Hill, Freddie Noe Becomes Master Distiller, Thieves Arrested From $150k In Stolen Bourbon May 20, 2022

**EXCLUSIVE** It's This Week in Bourbon for May 20th 2022. Evan Williams Single Barrel is being removed nationally and we've got an exclusive with Heaven Hill spokesperson, Josh Hafer, Freddie Noe has been given the title of 8th generation Master Distiller, $150k in stolen bourbon has been recovered and thieves have been arrested.

Show Notes:

**EXCLUSIVE** Evan Williams Single Barrel is being removed from national markets, made KY-only release. Joined by Heaven Hill spokesperson Josh Hafer
Freddie Noe has been given the title of 8th generation master distiller
Celebrate National Bourbon Day in the Bourbon Capital of the World June 9-12, 2022
Angel’s Envy $8.2M Expansion
Evan Williams Bourbon announced the 2022 class of veterans selected as American-Made Heroes
Beverage Information & Insight Group on Whiskey Growth
Elijah Craig's new multi-year partnership with PGA TOUR golfer, Talor Gooch
$150k in stolen bourbon has been recovered and thieves have been arrested
Lost Lantern releases 7 single barrels
Budverse Legends: Dwyane Wade x Budweiser Zero Edition NFTs
@evanwilliamsbourbon @heavenhill @kybourbonfest @beamgeneration8 @jimbeamofficial @angelsenvy @elijahcraig @lostlanternwhiskey @budweiser
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358 - Should I Expand Production? How to Start Blending? How to Build a Social Following? Free Consulting Advice from Pursuit May 19, 2022

We get lots of random emails. Most of the time it's recommendations for visiting kentucky, but if you are going to come just make sure you check out our Yelp list for of our recommendations. But every once in a while we get questions where people need our advice. This could be from brands or just individuals out there wanting to break into the industry. So I thought, how great would it be to have an episode where we give free consultation advice? In this episode we give our advice on sourcing, blending, and social media strategies. So stay tuned as you get to hear the Bourbon Pursuit team answer your questions about the whiskey business.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about experimenting with stainless steel barrels and staves
Phil Brandon of Rocktown: I've been distilling for 12 years, and won major awards for my bourbon, and sell all we make. Should I buy more stills to expand production or source new make from Kentucky distilleries?
Jason Miller: I am looking at blending, and creating a business based on blending. What are some of the beginning steps in this process?
@BarrelProofMarketing : What advice would you give to a new brand on how to build a social media following?
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Whiskey Quickie: Puncher's Chance The D12tance Bourbon Review May 17, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Puncher's Chance The D12tance Bourbon. This 12 year old bourbon is 96 proof and $120 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!
DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

TWiB: Kentucky Bourbon Festival Tickets Go On Sale , Longbranch Launches the Wonder What If Campaign, Goose Island Bourbon County Stout Gets NFTs May 13, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for May 13th 2022. Kentucky Bourbon Festival Tickets Go on sale, Longbranch and McConaughey launch the Wonder What If Campaign, Goose Island Bourbon County Stout Enters the NFT space.
Show Notes:

Kentucky Bourbon Festival Tickets are now on sale
Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits has signed a four-year distribution agreement with Beam Suntory
California Senate Bill 620 makes big changes to DTC language
North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission cracks down on illegal shipments
Liberty Pole Spirits will build a new distillery campus
Longbranch and McConaughey launch the Wonder What If Campaign
Maria Pearman CPA has written a new book called Distillery Finance
Chicken Cock's new limited-edition release of Island Rooster Rum Barrel Rye.
Traverse City Whiskey Co. announces American Lakeside Peach Whiskey
Balcones Distilling and ZZ Top re-release Tres Hombres
Westward Whiskey releases Westward American Single Malt Elements: High Desert to Klamath Basin
Brad Paisley launches American Highway Reserve Route 2
Goose Island Bourbon County Stout Enters the NFT space
@kybourbonfest @kybourbonfestival @visitbardstown @sgwinespirits @beamsuntory @libertypolespirits @longbranchbourbon @officialmcconaughey @chickencockwhiskey @tcwhiskey @balconesdistilling @westwardwhiskey @bradpaisley @americanhighwayreserve @gooseisland
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357 - A Brewing History Dives into Bourbon with David Coors of Molson Coors May 12, 2022

When you think of Coors, you are probably like me and you get the image of the silver bullet and the cold blue mountains on the side of the can. Or perhaps you know Molson-Coors as one of the top beverage brands in the world. But you most certainly didn't think of Coors as a whiskey company, until now. David Coors joins the show to talk about the family business and going from a just beer company into a full beverage enterprise. David has a deep connection with whiskey that spans back to his childhood and he is spearheading the next phase of company expansion by releasing their first ever collaboration whiskey, along with Bardstown Bourbon Co, called Five Trail. Listen to David's story and how Coors is learning what it's like to get into the whiskey business.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about answering questions on industry news vs people's thoughts
Talk about your involvement with the family business and when you got into it
How has Molson-Coors grown over the recent decade?
At what point did you realize your name carries weight?
When did Coors diversify away from Banquet into other beers?
Why did your dad try to kill Blue Moon?
What internships did you have at the brewery?
What made Coors Banquet go to the stubby bottle?
Was Cobra Kai a paid placement or organic?
What lessons is failed marketing that you can apply to today?
Did you have a hand in the seltzer craze hit?
So what made you want to dive into whiskey?
Did you have to sell your dad on venturing into whiskey?
How did you figure out what kind of whiskey to do?
Can you scale and sustain the malt part of the blend?
How did you come to your proof point?
What are those hard lessons you've learned by entering the whiskey business?
Can your R&D team figure out how to make the barrel hoops blue when it's ready?
Do you yourselves going even further into the whiskey category?
What trends in the beverage alcohol space do you see happening?
What is your cannabis strategy?
@fivetrail @molsoncoors
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Whiskey Quickie: Hard Truth Sweet Mash Rye Whiskey Review May 10, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Hard Truth Sweet Mash Rye Whiskey. This non-age stated rye is 115.2 proof and $70 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!
DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

TWiB: $72M Contract Facility To Be Built in Etown KY, Buffalo Trace Fights Backlash of Local Residents, Jack Daniel's Reveals 2 New Line Extensions May 06, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for May 6th 2022. A new state of the art $72M contract distillation facility will be built in Elizabethtown, KY, Buffalo Trace is fighting backlash from local residents of Peak's Mill as bourbon warehouse expansion begins, and Jack Daniel's introduces Jack Daniel’s Bonded Tennessee Whiskey and Jack Daniel’s Triple Mash Blended Straight Whiskey
Show Notes:

David Mandell and John Hargrove are building a new state of the art 72M contract distillation facility will be built in Elizabethtown, KY
Casey Jones Distillery will expand operations with a $1.9 million project
New proposals to establish a standard of identity for American Single Malt Whiskey
Buffalo Trace is fighting backlash from local residents of Peak's Mill as bourbon warehouse expansion begins
Shake Shack has unveiled its latest partnership, and it's with Maker's Mark
“The Real Housewives of New York City,” Bluestone Manor Bourbon
Blackened American Whiskey has announced the release of Rye the Lightning
Jeptha Creed Distillery is Re-Releases 90% Bloody Butcher Corn Straight Bourbon Whiskey
New Riff Sherry Finish 100% Malted Rye Whiskey, Barrel Proof and Without Chill Filtration and aged for at least six years
Blue Run Spirits announces Blue Run “Reflection I” Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Jack Daniel's introduces Jack Daniel’s Bonded Tennessee Whiskey and Jack Daniel’s Triple Mash Blended Straight Whiskey
@mandelldavid @johnny.@whiskey @caseyjonesdistillery @buffalotracedistillery @shakeshack @makersmark @bluestonemanor_bourbon @blackenedamericanwhiskey @jepthacreed @newriff @bluerunspirits @jackdaniels_us
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356 - Why did Barton 1792 stop tours? What did VA ABC get right and wrong? What is one bar essential that isn't bourbon? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #68 May 05, 2022

A few weeks ago on TWiB we talked about Barton 1792 closing the doors for tours indefinitely, but now we get to speculate. Was this because Sazerac feels they can't make it stand up to the current standard people expect of tours? Or was it a way to put all their eggs into turning the distillery into a workhorse for it brands? The Virginia ABC moved to a new randomized system for their allocated bourbon releases. We examine what they got right and what they got wrong. Lastly, we know people are starting to build their own bourbon bars, but what's something you need for your bar that is not bourbon?

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about bourbon on social media
What do we feel motivated Sazerac to stop offering tours at Barton 1792?
What did the Virginia ABC get right and wrong with the new randomized allocated bourbon drops?
What is one bar essential you need that isn't bourbon?
@bourbonr @breakingbourbon @sippn_corn
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Whiskey Quickie: Heaven's Door Bootleg Volume 3 Bourbon Review May 03, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Heaven's Door Bootleg Volume 3. This 13 year old bourbon is 121.2 proof and $545 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.

TWiB: Heaven Hill To Build A New $135M Distillery, ACSA Elects All Female Board of Directors, Chattanooga Announces 10th Anniversary Blend Apr 29, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for April 29th 2022. Heaven Hill will build a new $135M distillery in Bardstown, the American Craft Spirits Association elects an all female board of directors, and Chattanooga Whiskey announces its Founder’s 10th Anniversary Blend.
Show Notes:

Heaven Hill will build a new $135M distillery in Bardstown
American Craft Spirits Association elects an all female board of directors
Horse Soldier Bourbon will open a smart-casual dining and cocktail restaurant in Somerset KY
The Kentucky Turtle Derby returns this year on the first Saturday in May
Aaron Goldfarb of Vinepair tracked down an artists who uses Van Winkle bottles as a canvas
RStreet reveals new data on underage drinking not correlated to direct to consumer shipments
Amazon introduces "Just Walk Out" technology for wine stores
Green River Distilling Co. has announced a partnership with the Ohio River Foundation
Bulleit Frontier Whiskey has met its goal of planting one million trees by 2025
Popular clothing brand Troll Co. has launched its first bourbon, Five Nine Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Woodford Reserve introduces its first-ever ‘Derby In A Box’
PATRÓN Tequila and John Geiger, have teamed up to launch limited-edition GF-01 sneakers
@heavenhilldistillery @craftspiritsus @horsesoldierbourbon @woodfordreserve @aarongoldfarb @vinepair @greenriverdistilling @bulleit @bulleitwhiskey @trollcoclothing @patron @johngeiger_
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355 - The State of DTC Shipping and Three-Tier System with Alex Koral of Sovos ShipCompliant Apr 28, 2022

Have you heard us talk about shipping bourbon on the show before? Of course you have. Heck, I know I sound like a broken record as we try to become more stewards for reform in this space by talking about it almost every week. But this time you get to hear from an Expert. Alex Koral is the Regulatory General Counsel for Sovos ShipCompliant, a pioneer in the space of alcohol beverage delivery and making sure companies stay compliant since every state is different. We ask why wine gets a lot more slack than spirits when it comes to shipping and what is keeping that back. We also get his opinion on the supreme court rulings over the past few years as it relates to the commerce clause and why change is so reluctant and slow. As you can guess, there's a lot of red tape and lobbyists involved but the good news is that we are seeing incremental positive change. And Alex gives us a few tips on what we can all do to make change happen at our local level.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about how long a bourbon can last in a small jar
How did you get into the world of spirits shipping?
Was the three tier system implemented after prohibition?
What is working in the current three-tier model that should be kept?
What does SOVOS and ShipCompliant do for producers?
Why does wine get a pass when it comes to these laws?
What percentage of sales does a winery do with direct to consumer?
Why do distributors and wine industry players not want to have spirit shipping equality?
Do you find it interesting that conservative states that want an open and free market like TX and TN but still hang on to these archaic ideas?
Are states that don't want shipping getting lobbied too much?
Why didn't the TN Supreme Court case have a wider and quicker effect for domestic shipping?
How disruptive could Amazon be to all this?
How are these law proposals being presented to decision makers?
Is the law of mandating selling through a distributor stifling growth?
@shipcompliant
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Whiskey Quickie: Blue Run High Rye Bourbon (Fall 2021) Review Apr 26, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Blue Run High Rye Bourbon (Fall 2021). This non-age stated bourbon is 111 proof and $90 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!
DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

TWiB: Virginia ABC Goes To Randomized Bourbon Releases, Independent Stave To Open $30M Mill in AR, Orphan Barrel Releases Fable & Folly Apr 22, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for April 22nd 2022. The Virginia ABC moves to a new randomized and confusing system for allocated bourbon, Independent Stave Company to open $30 million mill in Arkansas, and Orphan Barrel announces the release of Fable & Folly.

Show Notes:

The rumor mill says that Evan Williams single barrel is being pulled off shelves and will be KY exclusive
Breaking Bourbon talked about the whiskey tax
The Virginia ABC moves to a new randomized and confusing system for allocated bourbon
Independent Stave Company to open $30 million mill in Arkansas
American Airlines reinstates drinks on airlines
San Diego State University student David Elizondo launches First Light coffee whiskey
15 STARS makes its debut on the whiskey market this month
Kentucky Senator’s third Bourbon offering, the John G. Carlisle Release, is hitting shelves this summer
Orphan Barrel Whiskey Distilling Co. introduces Fable & Folly Finest Quality Whiskey Aged 14 Years
@evanwilliamsbourbon @heavenhill @breakingbourbon @abc_va @independanystavecompany @americanair @sandiegostateuniversity @15starsbourbon @kentuckysenatorbourbon @orphanbarrel
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354 - A Yeast Lesson and All About Thomas S Moore with Danny Kahn of Barton 1792 Apr 21, 2022

There's nothing better than getting a fan of the show back on the program... but that fan also happens to be a master distiller at one of the most recognizable names in the kentucky distilling industry. Danny Kahn join us once again to talk about a few topics that we're all interested in hearing about. We cover the 1792 barrel program, then we take a hard left turn talking about yeast for a bit, so if you love the science behind bourbon, make sure to pay attention. and we end up going through a tasting and talking about the 2022 release of Thomas S Moore, the brand Danny is in charge of releasing every year using extra aged barrel finishes. And when we say extra aged, we're not talking aged for 6 months in an additional cask, we're talking years!

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks taking a break from bourbon for a couple months
How many barrels are allocated to the 1792 barrel program?
How many barrels are going towards private label partners?
If you can't meet demand, how much more do you need to produce?
Are you still using the same yeast from the 60's?
Is it intentional to pick a yeast based on the flavor it will produce?
What is the percentage impact of yeast on flavor?
Tell us a bit of history of Thomas S Moore?
Where in the ricks are these barrels resting?
What kind of sherry casks were you using in this release?
What barrels are next?
@barton1792
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Whiskey Quickie: Chicken Cock Cotton Club Canadian Rye Whiskey Review Apr 19, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Chicken Cock Cotton Club Canadian Rye Whiskey. This 20 year old rye is 100 proof and $500 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.

TWiB: Former Bulleit Blender is Suing Diageo, Barton 1792 Distillery Ceases All Tours, Sweetens Cove Launches Kennessee Apr 15, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for April 15th 2022. Eboni Major, former blender at Bulleit is now suing Diageo, Barton 1792 Distillery suspends all tours, and Sweetens Cove launches Kennessee.
Show Notes:

San Francisco World Spirits Competition Results are in. Here's what I discovered
Eboni Major, former blender at Bulleit is now suing Diageo
Bardstown Bourbon Company announces a $28.7 million investment
Bourbon At Belmont, a bourbon tasting event and Kentucky Derby celebration
Mashed, conducted a survey and asked which brand of bourbon was the worst
The most universally-loved smell in the world
Bourbon was the star performer at Hart's Auction of Finest & Rarest Spirits
Augusta Distillery LLC is expanding its operations in Bracken County
New Book: DOCTORS AND DISTILLERS: The Remarkable Medicinal History of Beer, Wine, Spirits, and Cocktails
The Woodford Reserve $1,000 Mint Julep
Barton 1792 Distillery suspends all tours
WhistlePig Whiskey and Barstool Sports have teamed up to launch the new single barrel Legends Series
Wilderness Trail yellow label wheated Bourbon now is a small batch instead of a single barrel
Sweetens Cove launches Kennessee
Old Elk Distillery will release of two more expressions of Master Distiller Greg Metze’s Master’s Blend Series: Old Elk Four Grain and Old Elk Double Wheat
Ross & Squibb Distillery announced the launch of Rossville Union 2022 Barrel Proof
Blood Oath Pact 8 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in Calvados casks
Laws Whiskey House recently announced the 2022 releases of their Bottled in Bond Four Grain Bourbon AND San Luis Valley Rye
KURVBALL, The Original Barbecue Whiskey
Absolut is extending the festival experience into the metaverse with Absolut.Land
@majorinwhiskey @diageo @bardstownbourbonco @mashedfood @augustakydistillery @woodfordreserve @barton1792 @whistlepigwhiskey @wildernesstraildistillery @sweetenscovespirits @oldelkbourbon @bloodoathbourbon @luxrowdistillers @lawswhiskey @absolutvodka @barstoolsports
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353 - Do NFTs Legitimize The Secondary Market? with Zach Weakland of Liquidcraft.io Apr 14, 2022

You can't run away from it... NFTs have now become the buzzword of 2022. Non-fungible tokens, or better known as NFTs was a prediction of mine at the end of 2021 but moreso looking into 2023. I didn't really think they would catch on this quickly and be adopted by so many in the whiskey industry. Now we are seeing the largest brands dip their toes into the water but do you understand what all this means? Zach Weakland is not only a brewer and a distiller but he's also been dabbling in crypto for a few years and now runs a site called LiquidCraft.io. We talk at the very lowest level about what is a NFT and how that relates to bottle sales and trading. And the biggest reason we can see as to why NFTs and bourbon make sense from an allocated bourbon perspective is that it may just legitimize the secondary market. We dive more into experience-based NFTs that are useful for distilleries and what could happen if this scales to tens or hundreds of thousands of bottles that go into a NFT marketplace.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks military vets entering the spirits world
Talk first about how you get into the spirits space and then intro crypto
Did you have a still in your backyard which is how you learned how to distill?
What products do you offer and where are your distributed?
Does wormwood actually make you hallucinate or is that fiction?
Why did you want to start accepting crypto for your business?
Explain at the most simple level, what is a NFT?
Does it replace the dollar bill?
If I own a NFT do I have the rights to sell it or can I sell it over and over again?
How are you taking these NFT concepts and applying it to bourbon?
If I buy a NFT that connects to a bottle how is it actually connected?
Does the NFT follow the bottle?
Can I still trade the NFT after the bottle has been consumed?
Does this legitimize the secondary market?
What happens if I own 1000 NFTs of bottles, when does this become a storage issue?
What if I buy the NFT and I don't turn it in for 10 years? Then do you lose on storage fees?
Can I create NFTs for existing bottles or collections?
How can experiences be tied to bourbon-based NFTs?
Could every bottle from every distillery be minted with a NFT?
@craft_liquid
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Whiskey Quickie: Woodinville Moscatel Finished Bourbon Review Apr 12, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Woodinville Moscatel Finished 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.

E.H. Taylor Despised Stagg and More Bourbon Law with Brian Haara (2020) Apr 08, 2022

I'm diving into our archives and presenting one of the amazing sessions that we held back in May of 2020 at the first and only Whiskey From Home event. Many people asked if another Whiskey From Home event would ever happen... and I thought long and hard about what it took to make this happen. Whiskey From Home had over 15k people stream it live during the height of COVID and, to be honest, it was a true sense of accomplishment. It was the first large scale virtual whiskey event and it was a true collaboration effort from everyone involved. Here we are a few years later and everyone wants to get back to being in person so that's why WFH was sort of a one and done. However, I want to share with you a session by Brian Haara, you know him as Sipp'n Corn on the roundtable and our resident law expert, as he dives into why E.H. Taylor Despised George T Stagg and more bourbon stories from his book, Bourbon Justice. If you're a bourbon geek like me, you will love this session. You can also watch this and all other sessions that are available on our YouTube page.

Show Notes:

Get Bourbon Justice on all book store locations!
@sippn_corn
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352 - What Determines a Limited Edition Value and Are Holiday Bottles a Gimmick? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #67 Apr 07, 2022

It's Bourbon Community Roundtable #67 and this time it's all about limited editions. New records are being set for bottles at auction and many of us are thinking twice about opening up bottles. Red Hook went for $47k. The 5L bottle of OFC 1982 went for $60k. With so many LTEs, how do you determine what will make a bottle valuable in the future? Our friends over at Breaking Bourbon had a good email last week that talked about holiday bottles. Kentucky Owl recently released their St. Patrick's Day expression, Barrell Bourbon has New Year, Smokewagon has done a halloween, and Maker's Mark has one for almost everything. Are these gimmicks or are holiday bottles here to stay?

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about glassware and books.
How do you determine what will make a bottle valuable in the future?
Are holiday bottles a gimmick or are they here to stay?
@bourbonr @breakingbourbon @sippn_corn
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Whiskey Quickie: Wyoming Whiskey Small Batch Bourbon Review Apr 05, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Wyoming Whiskey Small Batch Bourbon. This 5 year old bourbon is 88 proof and $40 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.

TWiB: Three Trade Associations Create ShipMySpirits, Belle Meade Bourbon Is Being Discontinued, Another Wild Turkey 101 Bottle Change Is Coming Apr 01, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for April 1st 2022. Three of the nation’s leading trade associations create ShipMySpirits coalition, Belle Meade Bourbon is being discontinued, and another Wild Turkey 101 bottle change is coming.
Show Notes:

KY Senate passes House Bill 500 and has now been signed into law by the governor
TTB reminds us that advertising regulations prohibit any health-related statement
Stone Brewing won its trademark battle against MillerCoors
The World Whisky Awards have been handed out
Diageo has sold its Windsor blended Scotch whisky brand
Flaviar creates a consultancy and creative studio named The Beverage Bureau
New Book: Make it a Double, From Wretched to Wondrous: Tales of One Woman’s Lifelong Discovery of Whisky
New Book: The Little Book of Whiskey Cocktails
Stave And Thief society now has expanded it's online courses
Three of the nation’s leading trade associations create ShipMySpirits coalition
Belle Meade Bourbon Is Being Discontinued
A$AP Rocky announced his new Canadian whiskey, Mercer + Prince
Stoli releases The Wiseman Straight Rye
Limestone Branch Distillery is launching Yellowstone Family Recipe
Bardstown Bourbon Company releases two new bottlings from their Fusion and Discovery expressions
Castle & Key releases their second small batch bourbon
Chattanooga is releasing the Founder 10th Anniversary blend
Basil Hayden® Subtle Smoke is announced
Another year and another Wild Turkey 101 bottle change
@stonebrewing @diageo @flaviar_com @craftspiritsus @americandistilling @distilledspiritscouncil @asaprocky @mercerprince @kentuckyowl @stoli @yellowstonebourbon @limestonebranch @bardstownbourbonco @castleandkey @chattwhiskey @basilhayden @wildturkey
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351 - How Marketing On The Road Built Brands Like Booker's with Kathleen DiBenedetto of Beam Suntory - Part 2 Mar 31, 2022

Welcome back to Part 2 of my interview with Kathleen DiBenedetto. In part 1, Kathleen shared some of her greatest memories with Booker as she learned the business inside and out from him. In part 2, Kathleen talks about her own successes in the industry from going on the road and leading the bourbon tastings herself to eventually have her own batch of Booker's named after her. Kathleen oversaw the brands of Booker's, Baker's, and Knob Creek for many years and we talk about how marketing strategies changed when you enter the digital revolution.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks steel and flasks.
Were you there when Booker's began introducing different batch numbers?
Do remember when you received a phone call to come create your own batch of Booker's?
When you started building brands can you talk about those early marketing tactics?
When you were on the road, was there ever a moment of shock?
Were you confident when you led your first tastings on the road?
Were you still taking care of the Booker's, Baker's, and Knob Creek brands when you get into the digital revolution?
What are the next brands people should be looking at?
@jimbeamofficial @knobcreek @knobcreekbourbon
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Whiskey Quickie: WH McBrayer Kentucky Straight Bourbon Review Mar 29, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review WH McBrayer Kentucky Straight Bourbon. This 4 year old bourbon is 103.6 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.

TWiB: American Whiskey Tariffs Finally Come to an End, Sotheby's New Record for Bourbon Auction, Michter’s Will Not Release 10 Year Bourbon Mar 25, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 25th 2022. American whiskey tariffs finally come to an end, Sotheby's broke a new record for American Whiskey at auction fetching US$1.63 million, and Michter’s will be waiting until 2023 to release its 10 Year Bourbon.
Show Notes:

A fake organization has been passing itself off as the genuine Diageo
American whiskey tariffs finally come to an end
Woodford Reserve announces a partnership with Formé Millinery Co
Ohio's has a "Keeper of a Place" law
Ohio man accused of stealing a bottle of bourbon during the assault on the U.S. Capitol Building
Michigan has secured more than $100,000 in fines against illegal alcohol shippers
Buffalo Trace raises US$280,000 for charity in NFT auction for OFC bottles
Sotheby's broke a new record for American Whiskey at auction fetching US$1.63 million
What can I purchase here in Kentucky that I cannot find at home? by Veach
Michter’s Distillery will be waiting until 2023 to release its 10 Year Bourbon
Old Dominick and the Overton Park 9 release a 7-year-old single barrel wheat whiskey
Barton 1792 releases the 2022 versions of Thomas S. Moore
Heineken launched its first, brand new, virtual beer: Heineken Silver
@diageo @diageo_na @woodfordreserve @buffalotrace @buffalotracedistillery @sothebys @blockbar.@eth @michterswhiskey @olddominick @barton1792 @heineken
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350 - Working Alongside Booker Noe with Kathleen DiBenedetto of Beam Suntory - Part 1 Mar 24, 2022

This episode was never intended to be a two-parter. Once I sat down with our guest, I couldn't bring myself to hit the stop button because I wanted to keep hearing the stories she had to tell. Kathleen DiBenedetto is the Sr. Director, Premium Seed Brands but has had a near 30 year career span at Beam Suntory. And one of her first jobs was working alongside Booker Noe. She traveled the country with Booker and learned what it took to market and find audiences for this premium uncut and unfiltered small batch whiskey. She helped the brands of Booker's, Knob Creek, and Bakers grow from its infant stage, this is before Booker's even had a box, to what we all see today. Kathleen shares her fondest memories of working with Booker and the Noe family and how that set her down a path to be inducted into the Bourbon Hall of Fame and also have her own Booker's Batch named after her.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the current whiskey shortage.
You've spent 30 years at Beam. What did you do when you first came into the company?
How did the interview process go with Booker Noe?
How did you build on-site tastings with consumers?
Booker didn't like fancy packaging but do you find it weird now that Basil Hayden is upscale packaging?
Do you remember what time the Booker's box was introduced?
Where was Baker's fitting into the portfolio at this time?
Can you recall the price points and how you competed with clear spirits?
What was Booker's first impression of Blanton's?
Were you there when Booker's began introducing different batch numbers?
@jimbeamofficial @knobcreek @knobcreekbourbon
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Whiskey Quickie: Michter's Toasted Barrel Bourbon 2021 Review Mar 22, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Michter's Toasted Barrel Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 91.4 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.

TWiB: 2021 Marks New High for Bourbon Sold in 40 Years, House Bill 500 Passes the Kentucky House, Castle & Key Releases First Small Batch Bourbon Mar 18, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 18th 2022. Bourbon and Straight American whiskeys hit a new high for cases sold for the first time in over 40 years, House Bill 500 passes the Kentucky House, and Castle & Key is releasing their first ever small batch bourbon.
Show Notes:

Diageo, Brown-Forman and Edrington have suspended sales in Russia
The United States will ban imports of Russian alcohol and seafood
Bourbon and Straight American whiskeys surpassed 27 million 9-liter cases domestically in 2021 for the first time in over 40 years
Kirin will invest about $870M in its healthcare and pharmaceutical businesses over the next three years
The whisky market is worth more than US$10 billion in the US on-trade
Kentucky Bourbon Festival announces inaugural Bourbon Capital BBQ Challenge & Distillery Invitational with the Kansas City Barbeque Society
House Bill 500 passed the Kentucky House and moves on to the Senate
Brown-Forman introduces ‘Up or Over’ bottled cocktails
Alberta Distillers Ltd announce the introduction of their signature core expression to the U.S. for the first time
RD1 Spirits is releasing an exclusive Citrus Bowl edition of Wm. Tarr Kentucky Whiskey
Blackwood Distilling Co. has announced the arrival of Blackwood Toasted Bourbon
Castle & Key Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey is being released
@brownforman @diageo @diageo_na @edringtonamericas @kybourbonfest @albertadistillers @albertapremium @rd1spirits @blackwooddistillingco @castleandkey
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349 - When Can We Stop Bunkering? with Mark Rucker of The Bourbon Life Mar 17, 2022

Many of you are listening to this show and you're starting to build your collection of bourbon. I was in your same shoes years ago and I would come home from the liquor store every week with a new bottle when I wasn't even 10% done with the bottle I bought the previous week. That same process goes on, you learn about limited editions, the hunt really begins, the credit card points really start rolling in, and before you know it you have a bunker of bourbon. I'm joined by Mark Rucker of The Bourbon Life to talk about bunkering and when can there ever be enough. We talk about the upper limits of purchasing, bottle prices, and folks who purchase just for the investment purpose. There's more topics that we dive into such as tactics used by marketing teams to always drive limited releases and how some brands are creating confusion to consumers. But the question remains, will we ever need to stop bunkering bourbon?

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about whiskey gift giving.
How many bottles do you have in your collection?
Can you expense your bourbon purchases as business expenses?
At what point do you say you have enough single barrel selections of a certain brand?
Is it harder to open the last bottle from a barrel pick you were on?
Marriages are supposed to be a 50/50 relationship. Does your better half buy you bottles?
Is there something in us that says "is there ever enough to stop"?
Is there an upper limit such as maxing out your bar?
Is there a problem with people who just want to collect to eventually sell?
Do the vast majority of distilleries need to slow down on limited releases?
Should people be going crazy for Russell's Reserve 13 year?
Does creating more colors of Weller continually feed the animal?
What brand does a good job of having a lot of labels but doesn't create confusion?
Is this strategy seen as a disservice to the consumer?
@thebourbonlife
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Whiskey Quickie: OH Ingram Flagship Bourbon Review Mar 15, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review OH Ingram Flagship Bourbon. This non-age stated 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.

TWiB: House Bill 500 Passes for Barrel Selections, OFC 1982 6L bottle In The First Ever NFT Auction, Heaven Hill Releases TWO 17 Year Old Bourbons Mar 11, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 11th 2022. House Bill 500 Passes to legitimize the KY barrels selection process, Buffalo Trace OFC 1982 is being released in a 6L bottle in the first ever NFT auction, and Heaven Hill Releases TWO 17 year old bourbons.
Show Notes:

Pritzker Private Capital acquires Bardstown Bourbon Company
House Bill 500 passes to provide clarity in the process of selecting private barrels at Kentucky distilleries
Global alcoholic beverage e-commerce market is forecast to reach US$30.5 billion by 203
Maker’s Mark unveils a new Maker’s Mark 46 bottle and design
Chris Stapleton releases his own EH Taylor barrel selection to raise funds for charity
An incendiary World War II bomb was found on the Buffalo Trace property
Brown-Forman Corporation reported financial results for its third quarter
The Evan Williams American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund application is now open
Bulleit enters the RTD space with Bulleit Crafted Cocktails
Chattanooga Whiskey’s 2022 Single Barrel picks will be broadly distributed as a mix-pack
Rod & Hammer’s SLO Stills whiskey that’s Cut With The Pacific RTD
Jack Daniel’s Canned Cocktails series are ready to hit shelves nationwide
The second batch of Blue Run High Rye Bourbon is being released
Michter’s US*1 Barrel Strength Rye is set to be released
Barrell Bourbon is releasing Batch 032
Buffalo Trace OFC 1982 is being released in a 6L bottle in the first ever NFT auction
Spring 2022 edition of Old Fitzgerald will be 17 years old
Heaven Hill Heritage Collection 17-Year-Old Barrel Proof new line
McCormick & Co. Inc. is launching Old Bay vodka
@bardstownbourbonco @makersmark @ehtaylorbourbon @buffalotrace @buffalotracedistillery @chrisstapleton @brownforman @evanwillamsbourbon @bulleit @chattwhiskey @slostills @jackdaniels_us @bluerunspirits @michterswhiskey @barrellbourbon @heavenhilldistillery @oldbay_seasoning @mcclintockdistilling
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348 - Pritzker Acquires Bardstown Bourbon, Can Cooperages Keep Up Pace?, and When Will Bourbon Prices Increase? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #66 Mar 10, 2022

It's Bourbon Community Roundtable #66 and here's what we have on the topic list for today! Pritzker Private Capital Acquires Bardstown Bourbon Company. What does that mean for the pioneer of hospitality in Bardstown? As bourbon capital spending increases and barrel shortage is on the horizon, can cooperages keep up? Raw materials, shipping, and cost to market is increasing. Beam has already announced price hikes to its premium bourbon brands like Booker's and Knob Creek. How long should bourbon companies keep absorbing these costs and should we expect prices to go up across the board?

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about blind tastings.
Pritzker Private Capital Acquires Bardstown Bourbon Company. What does that mean for the pioneer of hospitality in Bardstown?
As bourbon capital spending increases and barrel shortage is on the horizon, can cooperages keep up?
Raw materials, shipping, and cost to market is increasing. How long should bourbon companies keep absorbing these costs and should we expect prices to go up?
@bourbonr @breakingbourbon @sippn_corn
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Whiskey Quickie: Elvis Tiger Man Whiskey Review Mar 08, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Elvis Tiger Man Whiskey from Grain and Barrel Spirits. This 2.5 year old whiskey is 90 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.

TWiB: Russian Alcohol Is The Latest Target in Backlash, Kentucky Cooperage Announces a $4.1M Expansion, Woodford Reserve's 2022 Kentucky Derby Bottle Mar 04, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 4th 2022. Russian-made alcohol is the latest target in the growing backlash, Kentucky Cooperage announces a $4.1M expansion, and Woodford Reserve releases their 2022 Kentucky Derby bottle
Show Notes:

Russian-made alcohol is the latest target in the growing backlash
MGP Ingredients Reports Record Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2021 Results
Kentucky Cooperage announces a $4.1M expansion
Buzzard’s Roost Whiskey and Americana singer/songwriter Ryan Necci announce their collaboration
Diageo has invested $110 million in expanding their Diageo Lincolnway RTD facility
Nine distilleries have formed the Texas Whiskey Trail
Bourbon barrels travel the Rimrocker Trail from Swamp Fox Distillery
Berkshire Mountain Distillers recently released three new whiskeys distilled from beer
Copperworks American Single Malt Whiskey announces Release 041
Woodford Reserve releases their 2022 Kentucky Derby bottle
Sagamore Spirit releases their Reserve Series Rum Cask Finish Rye Whiskey
@independentstavecompany @buzzardsroostwhiskey @buffalogospel @diageo @diageo_na @texaswhiskeytrail @swampfoxspirits @berkshiremtdist @copperworksdist @woodfordreserve @kentuckyderby @sagamorespirit
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347 - An Insider's Look at Quality Control and Remembering the '96 Fire at Heaven Hill with Tawnie Gootee Mar 03, 2022

We're always looking for veterans of the bourbon industry to bring on the show to talk about their story and career growth. Tawnie Gootee has been at Heaven Hill for nearly 30 years and has done it all. I mean, they used to have to rotate workers to give tours when a small group of people would show up. But Tawnie has excelled in her career and worked with Mike Sonne and other Heaven Hill elites to become one of the most respected palates in the industry and she gives us the low down on the quality control process at Heaven Hill. This episode is also very significant because this year marks the 25th anniversary of the 1996 fire at Heaven Hill. Tawnie remembers the first phone calls and what it was like in the days following the aftermath. It's a true testament to how the bourbon industry really works together.

Show Notes:

This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the taste of bourbon.
Tell us a little bit about your background and how you ended up at Heaven Hill.
What was the tour experience like 30 years ago?
How did you hone your tasting skills?
What happens when you find a barrel that's not acceptable?
Explain what reading the tank means.
How often do you get complaints?
How long do you keep samples?
Talk about cork taint.
What's your high end inspection?
Talk about the process of creating limited edition products.
Can you tell us about the fire of 1996?
@heavenhilldistillery
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Whiskey Quickie: Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C921 Review Mar 01, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C921. This 12 year old bourbon is 120.2 proof and $70 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!
DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

TWiB: MGP Begins $12M Barrel Warehouse Expansion, Beam Suntory Is Raising Prices on Bourbon, Old Forester Releases 117 Series 1910 Extra Old Feb 25, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for Febuary 25th 2022. MGP has begun a $12 million barrel warehouse expansion, Beam Suntory's global net sales were up and the company is looking at raising prices, and Old Forester releases the third installment of The 117 Series – 1910 Extra Old
Show Notes:

Beer companies are poised for steep price hikes of barley due to the Russia-Ukraine crisis
MGP announced it has begun a $12 million barrel warehouse expansion
Freeland Spirits is set to collaborate with the new Bourbon Women Foundation
Beam Suntory's global net sales were up and the company is looking at raising prices
Wild Turkey delivered 10.9% growth last year, boosted by international markets
TX® Whiskey launches a new campaign starring award-winning actor and producer, Scoot McNairy
Party Horses announced today Maker's Mark® will be its official bourbon partner for 2022
/r/dcwhiskey reddit theorizes that Virginia ABC stores are leaking information to specific individuals
Old Forester releases the third installment of The 117 Series – 1910 Extra Old
The Kentucky Derby Festival Evan Williams Single Barrel Bourbon is released
Crown Royal releases a new limited edition Whisky Lemonade RTD
Lost Ash Ridge Farm in Waddy KY, has unveiled Southern Sweet Kentucky Bourbon flavored sausage
@mgpingredientscollab @freelandspirits @bourbonwomen @beamsuntory @wildturkey @txwhiskey @makersmark @partyhorses @oldforester @evanwilliamsbourbon @kyderbyfestival @crownroyal
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346 - Stave Science with Andrew Wiehebrink of Independent Stave Company Feb 24, 2022

Every few months we find a guest that scratches that itch when we want to get into the science of bourbon, and today we're talking about wood. Everyone has a different answer when it comes to the question of "how much influence does the barrel have on the whiskey?". Is it 20%? 90%? 70%? Our guest today is going to help us get closer to finding that magic number. Andrew Wiehebrink is the Director of Spirit Research and Innovation at Independent Stave Company and his job is to get real deep and nerdy into wood and the millions of permutations you can have that affects the taste of your whiskey. We ask all the questions you want to know about the effects of char levels, toasting, stave seasoning, and storage on a hypothetical and scientific level. His role at ISC has him working on multi-year experiments with wood varietals and aging conditions to see what hasn't been discovered yet. He has worked directly with Maker's Mark to create the finishing staves used in their private barrel program and we try to figure out why they would even consider getting rid of the mocha stave.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about union strikes.
Talk about your background and journey
Why seek out wood science vs mechanical engineering with distillation?
What was oak R&D like 5 years ago?
What was the wine industry doing to start making the bourbon industry look at alternatives to just Char 4?
What made Char 3 or 4 the gold standard?
What's the highest char level you've tested?
Was there any bookkeeping to see what barrel experimentation has been done through ISC's history?
What are your key metrics you're trying to hit? Flavor? Faster aging?
When you start an experiment do you have a hypothesis or just wait for data?
Any experiments when it comes to sustainability?
Any experiments with the same oak grown in different locations?
What is the average age of a harvested oak tree?
How does stave seasoning play a role in this process?
Talk about the process of figuring out the stave profiles at Maker's Mark
What do you think about them getting rid of the mocha stave?
Do you have a special day set aside for tasting experiments?
Is it easier to work with Maker's Mark because they have a more consistent product?
When you use a toasted barrel once, is its lifespan over?
Can you name one experiment that was a mistake?
Do you feel that consumers take the barrel for granted?
Say I have bad distillate, what barrels can you suggest?
Has a customer ever asked you for something so off-the-wall that you had to decline them?
Are mizunara cask trends here to stay?
@independantstavecompany
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Whiskey Quickie: The Wiseman Bourbon Review Feb 22, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review The Wiseman from Kentucky Owl. This non-age stated bourbon is 90.8 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.

TWiB: Legal Bills To Save Barrel Picks, Louisville Slugger Museum Ventures into Bourbon, Eastside Distilling Releases Luxardo Whiskey Feb 18, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for Febuary 18th 2022. Two new pieces of legislature have been introduced to save barrel picks, Louisville Slugger Museum is getting into bourbon tourism, and Portland's Eastside Distilling will release its first ever Maraschino Cherry Whiskey.
Show Notes:

Icons of American Whiskey Awards
Apax Funds has acquired a controlling stake in Ole Smoky Distillery
The International Journal of Drug Policy suggests that "alcohol may fall down the policy agenda"
Two new pieces of legislature have been introduced to save barrel picks
The company who operates Louisville Slugger is opening Barrels and Billets
Eastside Distilling will release a Luxardo Maraschino Cherry Whiskey
@americanwhiskeymag @olesmokey @fredminnick @slugger_museum @sluggernation @barrelsandbillets @eastsidedistilling @luxardousa @luxardoofficial
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345 - Chasing Bourbon Counterfeiters with Adam Herz Feb 17, 2022

Refills, counterfeits, and bogus bourbon. It's the unfortunate reality that we live in right now. Only until very recently have we seen distilleries start taking a more aggressive approach thwarting some of these efforts. But there is one individual who has stepped up to be known as THE person in the community when it comes to hunting down scammers and that's Adam Herz. Adam calls himself a whiskey watchdog and got into the habit of tracking down fakes a few years ago. He works with a team of people to find where bottles, foils, and sales originated to bring justice to the bourbon world. Adam has been featured on Inside Edition and was responsible for tracking down employees at Buffalo Trace who were involved a counterfeit ring at one point. He gives us some insight into his process and even some red flags to look for when you are wanting to buy a highly desirable bottle. Here's another fun fact about Adam, he is the creator of the American Pie film series. What bourbon would you pair with apple pie?

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about dusty bottle ages.
When did you see the rise of counterfeit bottles start making their way to market?
Can you talk about your old hunting days?
What does FOAF'ing mean?
Can you give some insight and history into creating the American Pie series?
Now that you're an adult, what bourbon would you pair with apple pie?
How did you find a need in the market for someone to validate bottles?
What drives you to be "the person" who uncovers these stories?
How do you start gathering evidence and then presenting the facts?
Are you keeping a database of Pappy bottles sold on eBay?
What are some red flags when people are looking for fakes?
Is it easier to fake a new or older bottle?
Have you ever thought about involving law enforcement?
Talk about how you broke up a Pappy Van Winkle counterfeit ring that led back to an employee at Buffalo Trace
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Whiskey Quickie: Monk's Road Bourbon Review Feb 15, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Monk's Road Bourbon from Log Still Distillery. This 6 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.

TWiB: New TTB Rules for Bourbon, Treasury Competition Report Aimed at Booze ,Green River Launches Their New Flagship Feb 11, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for Febuary 11th 2022. The TTB has published part 2 of it's modernization plan for labels, The US Treasury releases it's report on "PROMOTING COMPETITION IN THE ECONOMY" and it's big news for booze, Green River launches its flagship Green River Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.
Show Notes:

BIG GOVERNMENT RELATED EPISODE
Bill to privatize Mississippi wine, spirits distribution passes Mississippi House
Distilled Spirits Council annual economic briefing spirits sales volumes are up 12% and legislative wins
The TTB has published part 2 of it's modernization plan for labels and it means changes for bourbon
Frazier History Museum's Unfiltered Truth Collection
Blue Run Spirits announceS the hiring of Shaylyn Gammon as its first Whiskey Director
Puncher’s Chance® Bourbon is now the official spirits partner of The Professional Fighters League
The US Treasury releases it's report on "PROMOTING COMPETITION IN THE ECONOMY" and it's big news for booze
Custom Fireball-inspired tattoo designs to cover your inked regrets
Ten to One and Uncle Nearest collaborate on a new rum release
American punk rock band Beartooth recently released a rye whiskey
Hercules Mulligan Rum & Rye
Watershed Eaves Cask Strength Bourbon
Angel's Envy is releasing another cellar collection
Bardstown Bourbon Company’s new release in partnership with Founders Brewing
Green River launches its flagship Green River Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
@distilledspiritscouncil @frazierhistorymuseum @bluerunspirits @puncherschancebourbon @fireballwhisky @tentoonerum @uncleanearest @beartoothband @watersheddistillery @eavesblind @mariannebmd @angelsenvy @bardstownbourbonco @greenriverdistillingco
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344 - Heaven Hill's Acquisition Motives, What Happens When a Face of the Brand Leaves?, and the Top Places to Visit in Kentucky on Bourbon Community Roundtable #65 Feb 10, 2022

It's Bourbon Community Roundtable #65 and here's what we have on the topic list for today! Heaven Hill acquires Samson & Surrey, but what is the motive and what does that mean for brands like FEW and Widow Jane? Wes Henderson announced his retirement from Angel's Envy. Fred Noe is retiring soon. Then Eddie will likely retire when Jimmy isn't around. So what happens when the face of a brand leaves? There has been a huge surge of updates to distilleries in the past year. So now what is your top place to recommend visitors when they visit Kentucky?

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about regaining your sense of taste and smell after being sick.
Heaven Hill Acquisitions. What does this mean and who could be next?
Wes Henderson announced his retirement from Angel's Envy. So what happens when the face of a brand leaves?
There has been a huge surge of updates to distilleries in the past year. So now what is the top place you recommend visitors going to on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail?
Thanks to @bourbonr and @breakingbourbon for joining.
@bourbonr @breakingbourbon @sippn_corn
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Whiskey Quickie: Widow Jane Lucky Thirteen 2021 Release Review Feb 08, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Widow Jane Lucky Thirteen. This 13 year old bourbon is 93 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.

TWiB: Heaven Hill Acquires Widow Jane and FEW Spirits, Bulleit Bourbon Doesn't Have Enough Bottles, Rabbit Hole Unveils Starlino Rye Whiskey Feb 04, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for Febuary 4th 2022. Heaven Hill Acquires Widow Jane and FEW Spirits, Bulleit Doesn't Have Enough Bottles, Rabbit Hole Unveils Starlino Rye Whiskey
Show Notes:

Apologies from me for not knowing how to pronounce Islay
Heaven Hill has acquires Widow Jane and FEW Spirits
Wes Henderson is retiring from Angel's Envy
Kentucky Bourbon Trail releases tourism numbers for 2021
Nearest & Jack Advancement Initiative Business Incubation Program
Diageo said demand is depleting stocks of Crown Royal, Lagavulin, and Don Julio
Wine-searchers top searched bourbons of 2021
Do Spirits Need to Be Sustainable to Sell?
A bracelet that tells you when you're drinking too much alcohol
Woodford Reserve announces release of Double Double Oaked
Uncle Nearest releases its own distilled whiskey
Rabbit Hole unveiled the Distillery Series, Starlino rye whiskey
Kentucky Owl announces the St. Patrick’s Limited Edition
Pepsi and Boston Beer Company announce Hard Mountain Dew Baja Blast
A lesson on yeast from Dr. Pat Heist.
@heavenhillbrands @widow_jane @fewspirits @weshendersonky @angelsenvy @kentuckybourbontrail @unclenearest @jackdaniels_us @crownroyal @lagavulinwhisky @donjuliotequila @winesearcher @sevenfiftydaily @woodfordreserve @rabbithole @kentuckyowl @dr_pat_heist @pepsi @mountaindew @hardmountaindew
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343 - African American Contributions in Distillation History with Erin Gilliam, Associate Professor at Kentucky State University Feb 03, 2022

The contributions of African Americans in the distilling industry has largely gone unnoticed and unrecognized for a long period of time. The story of Uncle Nearest put mainstream media attention and a spotlight on the issue. But there is one person who spends her time on capturing stories and diving into distillery archives to discover more African American influence on whiskey. Erin Wiggins Gilliam is an Associate Professor Of History at Kentucky State University and she sits down with me to talk about some of her findings. She gives an amazing amount of insight into record keeping that documented how slaves that knew how to distill were quite valuable. Erin also spends her time interviewing older generations of people who worked at distilleries in Kentucky and nearby states to document the culture and the roles African Americans held at distilleries through recent periods of time. She is always on the hunt for the next great story so if you have a relative or a family connection, reach out to Erin so she can continue her quest.

Show Notes:

Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about family members buying bottles.
How do you keep on losing so many AirPods?
What led you into academia?
What got you into spirits?
Was Buffalo Trace the first distillery to let you come see their archives?
Can you talk about some of your findings about African American influence at Buffalo Trace?
Can you share one of your stories interviewing from interviewing and documenting people?
What was one awful story that really sticks out?
How far back can you go with oral history?
How did enslaved Africans bring the skill of farming and barreling?
Describe the feeling you get when you discover a document?
What's the end goal when you gather all the information you can?
What is an example of something you read of African American history at a distillery?
Is there a certain individual that had a very interesting story?
Since you're a tequila person is there any African American involvement you've discovered with tequila?
@dr_eringil @_kbbg_
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Whiskey Quickie: New Holland Beer Barrel Bourbon Review Feb 01, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review New Holland Beer Barrel Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 80 proof and $35 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.

TWiB: Malted Barley Shortage Hits Bourbon Distilleries, Law Makers Push Privatization of Liquor Sales, Chattanooga Whiskey Release Islay Scotch Cask Finish Jan 28, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for January 28th 2022. Malted Barley Shortage Hits Bourbon Distilleries, Law Makers Push Privatization of Liquor Sales, Chattanooga Whiskey Release Islay Scotch Cask Finish
Show Notes:

Kentucky bourbon report from the KDA shows the highs of economic impact and lows of tax burden
Mississippi and Pennsylvania lawmakers are pushing towards privatization of liquor sales
The US and UK are negotiating tariffs imposed on American Whiskey
There is a new malted barley shortage hitting bourbon distilleries
Maker’s Mark has earned B Corporation Certification
Pat's Whiskey Auction netted over $4.5M in sales
Buffalo Trace Distillery set a new visitation record
Elijah Craig Bourbon is partnering with PGA TOUR professional golfer Max Homa
Ian Stirsman has been named the first master distiller at Ross and Squibb Distillery
Old Forester is offering the public one day of free admission to Louisville's Roots 101 African-American Museum in collaboration with KOBBE
Conecuh Ridge Distillery breaks ground in Troy, AL to produce Clyde May’s Alabama Whiskey, Bourbon and Rye
C.S. McCullough's in Johnson City TN will let you bring in bourbon while you get your hair cut
Puncher’s Chance has its first-ever limited release offering, The D12TANCE
Buzzard’s Roost Whiskey announces Toasted French Oak Bourbon
Chattanooga Whiskey announces their release of Islay Scotch Cask Finish
The GlenDronach today unveiled the limited release of its first-ever 50-Year-Old Single Malt
@kentuckybourbontrail @makersmark @whiskyauctioneer @buffalotrace @buffalotraceditillery @elijahcraig @rossvilleunion @oldforester @kobbe @clydemayswhiskey @puncherschancebourbon @buzzardsroostwhiskey @chattwhiskey @glendronach @glendronach_us @rbwhiskymaker
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342 - How Moonshining Influenced The Cornbread Mafia with James Higdon Jan 27, 2022

Bourbon and whiskey runs deep in Central Kentucky, but so did one of the largest marijuana manufacturing and trade rings in history. Cornbread Mafia tells the story of how of how Johnny Boone, Bobby Joe Shoemaker, and many others created one of the most highly sophisticated marijuana trades that ran right through Bardstown, KY, the heart of bourbon country. Jim Higdon is the author of the book and he joins the show talk about how this cultural phenomenon really had a very big tie back to the whiskey industry during prohibition. Many got into the illegal distilling business because that's what they knew how to do and was the only means of providing for their families. We talk more about the bourbon connection and how that eventually turned into marijuana territory which opened the door to elaborate plans to evade law enforcement and even had the DEA swarming with helicopters around Bardstown. This story has also put Jim on the path for being an advocate of legalization and he's even started his own CBD gummy business called Cornbread Hemp. If you enjoy stories like these, I would highly recommend reading or listening on Audible to The Cornbread Mafia.

Show Notes:

This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about infinity bottles.
Moonshining was really how this all got started
George Remus was a real gangster and had a big role into bootlegging as well.
Talk about the history of Basil Hayden.
Why was Central KY known as the "Ft. Lauderdale of KY"?
Talk about the outlaw side of your family.
How important was L&N Railroad to bourbon at the time?
Was Lebanon affected by The Temperance Movement?
I read during prohibition people were using stills that can produce 1000 gallons a day.
Give a background of Johnny Boone and Bobby Joe Shoemaker.
Why were they smuggling marijuana from Belize?
Talk about one of the biggest marijuana busts.
In your research, did you find any fighting between government agencies?
Was there any violence involved with The Cornbread Mafia?
There was a common thread of "no one talks".
How did you feel about how the media portrayed The Cornbread Mafia?
What was it like being indicted to find Johnny Boone and almost go to jail?
Today, would someone be sentenced to 20 years in prison for marijuana?
Talk about your new venture of Cornbred Hemp.
Why isn't Cornbread Mafia a movie?
@jimhigdon
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Whiskey Quickie: Very Olde St. Nick The OG 17 Year Old Bourbon Review Jan 25, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Very Olde St. Nick The OG. This 17 year old bourbon from Preservation Distillery is 108.3 proof and $600 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!
DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

TWiB: Mellow Moments Cuts Back on Birthday Gifts, Japan Recognizes Bourbon as a Distinctive Product, and Buffalo Trace Launches their First NFT Jan 21, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for January 121st 2022. Mellow Moments Cuts Back on Birthday Gifts. Japan now recognizes "Bourbon" and "Tennessee Whiskey" as distinctive products of the United States. Buffalo Trace launches their first NFT with 6L bottles
Show Notes:

University of Louisville basketball fan drained a 96' putt for a Pappy 23
Mellow Moments Cuts Back on Birthday Gifts
California passes SB620 to allow craft distilleries to ship direct to consumer
Launch of a new Columbus Distillery Trail
Virginia Del. Nick Freitas calls for abolishing Virginia ABC stores
The Party Source is opening a new in-house bourbon bar this year
Japan now recognizes "Bourbon" and "Tennessee Whiskey" as distinctive products of the United States
George Remus has developed the Limited-Release Remus Repeal Reserve Collector’s Box Set
Barrell announces BCS Gray Label Seagrass which features 100% Canadian rye whisky aged for 16 years
Buffalo Trace launches their first NFT with 6L bottles
@universityoflouisville @fourrosesbourbon @experiencecolumbus @thepartysourcenky @distilledspiritscouncil @georgeremusbourbon @barrellbourbon @buffalotracedistillery @buffalotrace
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341 - Bringing Rye Back To Baltimore with Brian Treacy and Ryan Norwood of Sagamore Spirit Jan 20, 2022

Rye whiskey production had a historic past in the northeastern states, especially Pennsylvania and Maryland. And now Sagamore Spirit based in Baltimore is bringing rye whiskey back. Ryan and I traveled to record this interview with their CEO, Brian Tracey, and their Director of Operations, Ryan Norwood. We uncover Brian's unique past of how a phone call with Kevin Plank, the CEO of Under Armour, would take him from running a backpacking and kayaking company in Flagstaff Arizona to building a new distillery from the ground up. One of Brian's tasks was to find a distiller and that led to a few conversations with Ryan Norwood, a young guy who was really into yeast and beers. Sagamore had a longstanding relationship with MGP but now they have their own Maryland rye distillate and we talk about how they shaped and revitalized the Maryland rye category.

Show Notes:

Brian talk about how you go from ski bum to whiskey CEO?
How did you cross paths with Under Armour CEO, Kevin Plank, and him ask you to become CEO?
What did you know about the distilling business before starting?
What did Kevin like about the distilling business?
What was the initial vision?
After you were convinced to start, who was the first call you made?
When did Ryan Norwood come into the picture for distilling?
Walk us through the differences be between brewing and distilling.
What was is like working with Larry Ebersold to develop your Maryland style rye?
Why do distilleries go with 95/5 rye?
What was the process of figuring out how to scale and go beyond a 500 gallon pot still?
Why only distill rye whiskey when bourbon is so popular?
What does it mean to you when articles begin coming out without any affiliation to Under Armour?
As a CEO, what are you trying to empower your people with?
What was it about going down the path of finished whiskeys?
Do you have any horror stories from working with barrel brokers on used barrels?
Here's how we all came together to collaborate on Pursuit United Rye.
@sagamorespirit @sagamorewhiskeybrian @smilesdavisjr
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Whiskey Quickie: Maker’s Mark FAE-02 2021 Jan 18, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Maker’s Mark FAE-02 2021. This non-age stated bourbon is 109.1 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.

TWiB: The bestselling American whiskey in the World's Best Bars, Are Basil Hayden And Old Grand-Dad The Same?, and UFC's Dustin Poirier is launching Rare Stash Bourbon Jan 14, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for January 14th 2022. Bulleit retained its position as the bestselling American whiskey in the World's Best Bars. Are Basil Hayden And Old Grand-Dad The Same? UFC's Dustin Poirier is launching Rare Stash Bourbon.
Show Notes:

Bulleit retained its position as the bestselling American whiskey in the World's Best Bars
The Kentucky Bourbon Benefit presents a $3.4 million check to Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear
Hennessy will join a big trend by launching its first NFTs
No science supports a belief that taking a month off drinking is good for your liver
PBR posted a since-deleted tweet that read "Not drinking this January? Try eating a**."
Ireland’s government imposes a minimum unit price on alcoholic beverage
Are Basil Hayden And Old Grand-Dad The Same? From Chuck Cowdery
Limestone Branch Distiller debuts the Yellowstone Select Landmark Edition Bottle series
UFC lightweight champion Dustin "The Diamond" Poirier is launching Rare Stash Bourbon
Coca-Cola and Constellation Brands are releasing a lemon-flavored canned cocktail known as Fresca Mixed
@bulliet @bullietwhiskey @bourboncrusade @fredminnick @kentuckybourbontrail @hennessy @blockbar.@eth @pabstblueribbon @basilhayden @limestonebranch @yellowstonebourbon @dustinpoirier @cocacola @frescausa @constellationbrands
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340 - NFC Tags For Bourbon Collectibles, What is "hunting"?, and 2022 Predictions on Bourbon Community Roundtable #64 Jan 13, 2022

We're back with Bourbon Community Roundtable #64 and here's the topics! Sazerac implemented NFC tags in this year's Thomas H. Handy. Is this the boost the bourbon market needed? Is this setting up bourbon for more of a collectible market? But who should be watching and take the next step. I got into a scuffle on TikTok because someone said "what non-allocated bourbons are you hunting for this year?". Which I replied, that's not really a hunt. How do you define hunting? Lastly, let's hear some 2022 predictions!

Show Notes:

This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about how to attend Whiskey events without getting intoxicated.
Sazerac implemented NFC tags in this year's Thomas H. Handy.
Is this the boost the bourbon market needed?
Is this setting up bourbon for more of a collectible market?
How soon will others start following?
I got into a scuffle on TikTok because someone said "what non-allocated bourbons are you hunting for this year?". Which I replied, that's not really a hunt. How do you define hunting?
Let's hear some 2022 predictions!
Thanks to @bourbonr, @breakingbourbon, and @sippn_corn for joining.
@bourbonr @breakingbourbon @sippn_corn
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Whiskey Quickie: Watershed Bourbon Finished in Apple Brandy Barrels (Batch 002) Review Jan 11, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Watershed Bourbon Finished in Apple Brandy Barrels (Batch 002). This 6 year old finished bourbon is 120.8 proof and $90 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!

DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

TWiB: 11 American Whiskey Trends To Watch in 2022, Tennessee ABC Arrests Someone Selling Van Winkle, WhistlePig Launches A Non-Alcoholic Whiskey Jan 07, 2022

It's This Week in Bourbon for January 7th 2022. Beverage Dynamics Gives 11 American Whiskey Trends To Watch in 2022. Tennessee ABC arrests someone for trying selling Pappy Van Winkle through a Facebook trade. WhistlePig launches a non-alcoholic whiskey called PiggyBack Devil’s Slide

Show Notes:

Beverage Dynamics' 11 American Whiskey Trends in 2022
Tennessee ABC arrests someone for trying selling Pappy Van Winkle through a Facebook trade
Drizly’s non-alcoholic ‘spirits’ sales soar 290% in 2021
Dry January’ Is Coming, But Are Shoppers Really Shying Away?
Bourbon Pursuit Discord members raised $6,200 to help wildfire support to those in Superior, CO
Rev. Jim Sichko auctioned off an OFC 1995 and a basketball blessed by Pope Francis
WhistlePig Whiskey has launched a limited-edition, non-alcoholic whiskey called PiggyBack Devil’s Slide
OH Ingram announced the release of its fourth expression, Ingram River Aged Straight Bourbon Whiskey
@tennesseeABC @whistlepigwhiskey @ingramwhiskey
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339 - Aging Barrels on the American Highway with Brad Paisley Jan 06, 2022

When I got a text message that said "Hey, do you want to have Brad Paisley on your show?" I couldn't resist jumping at the chance. Everyone knows Brad as the country music legend, but we got to sit down and discover bourbon enthusiast Brad. He once was known as a sober star, but bourbon has has permanently cemented a place in his life. We talk about how he first began appreciating bourbon and how that led him to start his own brand called American Highway. We discuss the brand, it's origin, and future, but stick around till the end and you will hear some epic bourbon hunting stories.

Show Notes:

This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the glass shortage.
You used to not drink alcohol, is that still true?
How did the whiskey brand come about?
Was the bourbon at least a year old before it went on the road?
Was it tempting to want to test out a barrel on the road?
How did you find out about Bardstown Bourbon Company?
What were your early challenges with the truck on tour?
Did people connect the dots when they saw your rolling rickhouse?
What did you learn about blending?
What would you say to someone who was hesitant about buying a celebrity brand?
Are you going to put tour numbers on the label to differentiate batches?
Any good bourbon hunting stories?
Is there a charitable aspect to the brand?
@bradpaisley @americanhighwayreserve
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Whiskey Quickie: Blue Run Spirits Golden Rye Whiskey Review Jan 04, 2022

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Blue Run Spirits Golden Rye. This non-age stated rye is 95 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.

TWiB: Direct To Consumer Shipping Wins and Losses, 7 Drinks Trends to Watch in 2022, and Heaven Hill Changes Bottle Release Process Dec 31, 2021

It's This Week in Bourbon for December 31st 2021. Looking back at 2021 Direct To Consumer Shipping Wins and Losses. 7 Drinks Trends to Watch in 2022. Heaven Hill announces changes to their morning bottle releases

Show Notes:

Looking back at 2021 Direct To Consumer Shipping Wins and Losses
Research shows highly fit women and men are more likely to consume alcohol than unfit individuals
VinePair releases 7 Drinks Trends to Watch in 2022
White Oak Initiative report shows oak trees aren’t growing at a sustainable rate
Journeyman Distillery releases Last Feather Rye Cask Strength
Heaven Hill announces changes to their morning bottle releases
Ndlovu Gin Original is a gin infused with... elephant dung
@sovoscompliance @vinepair @journeymandistillery @heavenhilldistillery
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338 - Getting Crafty in Upstate New York with Brian McKenzie of Finger Lakes Distilling Dec 30, 2021

It's no secret that we're big fans of Finger Lakes Distilling since it's one of the crucial components in Pursuit United. A few months ago, we booked some flights and took our recording gear to upstate New York. We sat down with their president, owner, and former distiller Brian McKenzie. We talk about his journey into whiskey and some of the challenges he faced as a craft distiller. We cover the unique aspects of being a craft distiller with a column still, their incredibly low barrel entry proof, and their infamous wheated bourbon.

Show Partners:

Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com.
Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more.
Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com.
You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now.
Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com.
Total Wine and More is wonderland for wine, spirits, and beer lovers! Explore more in store or online at TotalWine.com.
Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com.

Show Notes:

This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about how much wood we consume from drinking bourbon.
What's changed since the last time you were on the show?
Tell us about your journey in whiskey.
Who were your first phone calls to get started in this industry?
Peat or no peat?
Tell us about your wheated bourbon.
What challenges did you face at the beginning being a craft distiller?
Talk about your experimentations.
Since the wheat is so popular, why not just focus on that?
What's more fun, finishing or experimenting with mashbills.
Tell us about your Master Distiller.
Did you have any issues when starting the distillery?
Why do craft distillers prefer certain stills?
What other spirits are you creating?
Talk about your seasoning process and why your barrels look so old after only 4 years.
What kind of barrels are you using?
Do you think the low entry proof contributes to having better tasting whiskey at a younger age?
Where does the big bold fruitiness flavor come from in your bourbon?
Tell us about your older aged bourbon that's coming out.
Does lower entry proof have an impact on taxes?
What has your distillery done for the local community?
Do you get visitors from all over?
What are you forecasting for your distillery?
@flxdistilling
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Whiskey Quickie: Michter’s 2021 10 Year Single Barrel Rye Whiskey Review Dec 28, 2021

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Michter’s 2021 10 Year Single Barrel Rye. This 10 year old rye is 92.8 proof and $170 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!

Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com.

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.

TWiB: $3M Raised from Kentucky Bourbon Benefit, Heaven Hill vs Log Still Has Been Settled, More About Pursuit United Rye Dec 24, 2021

It's This Week in Bourbon for December 24th 2021. The Kentucky Bourbon Benefit has raised over $3M for Tornado relief. The Heaven Hill vs Log Still court battle for the Dant name has come to an end after 9 months. Let's talk a little more about United Rye since it's now only available on store shelves

Show Notes:

Bourbon Pursuit fundraiser has raised $20,587 for Team Western KY Tornado Relief, Bellewood & Brooklawn, and Hand-in-Hand Ministries
The Kentucky Bourbon Benefit has raised over $3M for Tornado relief
Carr’s Steakhouse that once stood in downtown Mayfield have donated 14 bottles to The Kentucky Bourbon Benefit
Halls Chophouse Charleston is offering Buffalo Trace 1995 O.F.C. bourbon to benefit tornado relief
The Heaven Hill vs Log Still court battle for the Dant name has come to an end after 9 months
IWSR expects e-commerce sales are expected to reach more than US $42 billion by 2025
The Top 10 states for American Whiskey Sales
Texas State Securities Board has issued an emergency cease and desist order to Whiskey & Wealth Club
United Rye is sold out on Seelbachs but is only available on shelves now
Doghouse has released a chili bacon flavored vodka
@kentuckybourbontrail @carrssteakhouse @hallschophouse @heavenhilldistillery @logstilldistillery @doghousedistillery
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337 - Ice Breaker Christmas Special Dec 23, 2021

Every year we try to do something different for Christmas that's not really focused around bourbon. I'm sure you spend a lot of time talking about bourbon with your "bourbon friends", but it is always interesting to learn more about them on a personal level. This year we decided to bring back some fun ice breaker questions so you can get to know a little more about us. We hope you enjoy and from the entire Bourbon Pursuit team, happy holidays!

Show Partners:

Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com.
Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more.
Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com.
You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now.
Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com.
Total Wine and More is wonderland for wine, spirits, and beer lovers! Explore more in store or online at TotalWine.com.
Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com.

Show Notes:

What's the best cheeseburger?
What’s the best meal you know how to cook?
Candy, chocolate, or popcorn at the movies?
What was your first job?
What was the most physically exhausting job you ever had?
What's your favorite casino game?
What’s one part of the world you still really want to see or experience?
What's your best bourbon shopping experience of the year?
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Whiskey Quickie: Peg Leg Porker Bourbon Review Dec 21, 2021

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Peg Leg Porker Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 90 proof and $40 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!

Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com.

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.

TWiB: Bourbon Raises Funds for Tornado Relief, Thomas H Handy Adds NFC Chips In Foils, and A. Smith Bowman Releases a 15 year Rum Finished Bourbon Dec 17, 2021

It's This Week in Bourbon for December 17th 2021. The Kentucky Bourbon Benefit will take place to support Kentucky Tornado relief. Buffalo Trace adds NFC chips to Thomas H. Handy foils. A. Smith Bowman is releasing a 15 year rum finished bourbon.

Show Notes:

The Kentucky Bourbon Benefit will feature exclusive private barrels, rare bottles, and more to support Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief
Breckenridge Distillery has been acquired by cannabis company Tilray for $10.92M
Brown Forman, Diageo, and Beam Suntory have pledge reach net-zero carbon emission
Small Producers Are Slow Proofing Their Whiskey
Should you invest is a whiskey funds? Gross annual rate of return of 17%
Maker’s Mark “Whisky Flights” will pay for your baggage fees
Alabama's Golden Ticket Lottery
Buffalo Trace adds NFC chips to THH foils
Jim Beam drops a Bourbon Cream plus the brand’s first board game in a new holiday kit
Crown Royal is launching an 18 year old release in connection with grillz maker Scotty ATL
General Manager and Distiller Nicole Austin has unveiled Cascade Moon 13 Year Old Rye
A. Smith Bowman Distillery announces a 15year old rum finished bourbon
@kentuckybourbontrail @bourboncrusade @breckdistillery @fredminnick @tilray @brownforman @diageo @nancylfraley @forbes @makersmark @aldotcomnews @jimbeamofficial @crownroyal @cascadehollowdistillingco @a.@smithbowman
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336 - No Tariffs in 2022, Bottles That Deserve More Attention, and Switching Liquor Stores on Bourbon Community Roundtable #63 Dec 16, 2021

It's another jam packed Bourbon Community Roundtable as we discuss the latest trending topics of the past few weeks. One of the greatest pieces of whiskey news is that tariffs are being eliminated. This will open up international commerce once again for bourbon and we take a stab at some theories on what moves we expect distilleries to make in 2022. There are always bottle releases that get all the attention, but after a solid year of bourbon releases we give our takes on some bottles that should have gotten more attention. Lastly, the market is the market and we all know that stores are beginning to price their prized bottles close to secondary. If you've been a long-time customer of that retailer, are you going to switch stores or start paying higher prices?

Show Partners:

Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com.
Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more.
Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com.
You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now.
Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com.
Total Wine and More is wonderland for wine, spirits, and beer lovers! Explore more in store or online at TotalWine.com.
Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com.

Show Notes:

This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about MRE bourbon pairings.
Now that tariffs have been revoked, what moves do we expect distilleries to make next in 2022?
Do you think the EU can make it more appealing to sell American Whiskey there vs. keeping it in the US?
Is there a bottle release that happened this year that you feel should get more attention?
If your favorite retailer had to start selling their allocations at secondary prices, would you find another store to purchase from?
Thanks to @bourbonr, @breakingbourbon, and @sippn_corn for joining.
@bourbonr @breakingbourbon @sippn_corn
Support this podcast on Patreon

Whiskey Quickie: Off Hours Bourbon Review Dec 14, 2021

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Off Hours Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 95 proof and $45 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!

Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com.

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.

TWiB: Four Roses Opens A New Visitor Center, Craft Spirits Consumption Is On The Rise, and Stellum Black is Announced Dec 10, 2021

It's This Week in Bourbon for Decmber 10 2021. Four Roses opens a new and newly renovated 15,000-square-foot visitor center. According to new research by IWSR, we’re slowly but surely becoming a nation of craft spirits drinkers. Stellum™ Black: a limited-release premium expression is announced

Show Notes:

Four Roses cuts the ribbon on the new visitor center at the Lawrenceburg facility
Rye whiskey isn't an American Creation. From Lew Bryson over at The Daily Beast
IWSR Drinks Market Analysis, we’re slowly but surely becoming a nation of craft spirits drinkers
Park Street Companies and American Craft Spirits Association (ACSA) release the fifth annual Craft Spirits Data Project
American Distilling Institute has now opened the call for proposals
The DISCUS was granted $1.12M to promote American spirits exports in 2022
Bardstown Bourbon Company's “World’s Top Whiskey Taster” takes place December 11, 2021
Wilderness Trail Distillery plans to increase its production to 80,000 barrels a year
Total Wine & More saw its revenue grow to more than $5 billion in 2020
Old Forester Distilling Co holds nationwide lottery for President's Choice
Stellum launches Stellum Black Bourbon and Stellum Black Rye
Wilderness Trail’s first ever four-grain Bourbon whiskey will have a pink label
Chicken Cock Cotton Club 20 year Canadian Rye Whiskey
Heaven’s Door Whiskey announced the Bootleg Series Vol III
Booker’s Batch 2021-04 Noe Strangers Batch
Barefoot Wine and Oreo have come together to create a cookie-flavored red blend
@fourrosesbourbon @thedailybeast @theiwsr @parkstreetcompanies @craftspiritsus @americandistilling @distilledspiritscouncil @wildernesstraildistillery @totalwine @oldforester @stellumspirits @chickencockwhiskey @heavensdoorwhiskey @barefootwine @oreo
Support this podcast on Patreon

335 - Introducing The Bardstown Collection with Jim Beam, Heaven Hill, Log Still, Preservation, and Bardstown Bourbon Company Dec 09, 2021

What happens when you bring 5 of the top distilleries together and have them each provide two of their best barrels? You get the Bardstown Collection. Jim Beam, Heaven Hill, Log Still, Preservation, and Bardstown Bourbon Company have come together along with the tourism side of Visit Bardstown to release 5 special edition bottles that will benefit the community of Bardstown. All proceeds will go to the Main Street Association, Hospitality, and First Responders. These exclusive expressions have a unified packaging featuring Bardstown imagery and the only difference is a small label with each brand logo at the bottom of the bottle. In this episode, we're joined by Freddie Noe, Conor O'Driscoll, Lynne Dant, and Steve Nally to talk about the process of making this collection. These bottles will be released at each distillery starting on January 13th and the cost will range $159 - $249 per bottle. Get ready to collect the whole set! Visit BardstownCollection.com for more details and specific release times.

Show Partners:

Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com.
Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more.
Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com.
You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now.
Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com.
Total Wine and More is wonderland for wine, spirits, and beer lovers! Explore more in store or online at TotalWine.com.
Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com.

Show Notes:

This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about your palate being off.
Tell us about your role in this project.
What was the process like for choosing the barrels for this project?
What does this project mean for Bardstown?
Talk about the charity aspect of this project.
When are these bottles being released?
Why aren't more distilleries getting together to do these kinds of projects?
What does this project mean to you?
@jimbeamofficial @heavenhilldistillery @bardstownbourbonco @logstilldistillery @preservationdistillery
Support this podcast on Patreon

Whiskey Quickie: Basil Hayden Toast Bourbon Review Dec 07, 2021

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Basil Hayden Toast. This non-age stated bourbon is 80 proof and $50 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!

Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com.

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.

TWiB: No Arrests Ever From Counterfeit Bourbon, Four New Distilleries on the KY Bourbon Craft Trail, and Barrell releases Gold Label Bourbon Dec 03, 2021

It's This Week in Bourbon for Decmber 3rd 2021. Here's the headlines for this week: Over the last 10 years, as it relates to counterfeit alcohol, a WHAS11 story found no arrests have ever been made. Four new distilleries have been added to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour. Barrell Craft Spirits is releasing their Gold Label Bourbon

Show Notes:

The first-ever Craft Whiskey Expo at Sea will take place next spring on Celebrity Cruises
Four new distilleries have been added to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour
Kentucky’s Original Black Bourbon Enthusiasts, KOBBE, announces the 4th annual Bourbon & Benevolence Charity Tasting & Auction
Ball Corp is lifting the minimum number of cans certain producers must order and saying it will raise prices
UPROXX came out with a new article called The 50 Best Bourbon Whiskeys Of 2021
Buffalo Trace is inviting everyone to come see the Distillery lighted with thousands of holiday lights
Wildsam is releasing a new title in its Pursuits series, Kentucky Bourbon Country
Widow Jane Distillery announces today the release of The Vaults 2021
High West is releasing High Country Single Malt
TX announced the launch of TX Whiskey Canned Cocktails
Scottie Pippen is debuting a bourbon barrel-aged tea
Woodford Reserve announces Five-Malt Stouted Mash
Barrell Craft Spirits announces New Year Bourbon 2022 and Gold Label Bourbon
@celebritycruises @kentuckybourbontrail @502kobbe @ballcorporation @uproxxlife @uproxx @bufalotrace @wildsam @widow_jane @drinkhighwest @txwhiskey @scottiepippen @woodfordreserve @barrellbourbon
Support this podcast on Patreon

334 - When Mechanical and Distillery Engineering Meet with Shrout Tate Wilson Consulting Engineers Dec 02, 2021

When we typically talk about building a distillery, we usually think of things like stills, mash tanks, and where to store all the grain. But building a distillery is no different than building a house. To make all that stuff work, you need electricity, plumbing, and pumps... lots and lots and lots of pumps. Before you even begin breaking ground or rehabbing an old abandoned distillery, a lot of this needs to be planned out. This is one topic that we've never covered on the podcast and that's how the heck do you actually build a working distillery? We invited Nick Morgan and Ronnie Flerlage to be on the show. They are mechanical engineers from Shrout Tate Wilson Consulting Engineers and have experience on how to design and build a distillery from the ground up. They specialize in being a one stop shop that will guide you through the entire process of making sure you have all the guts needed to turn on the lights, but also specialize in working with companies like Vendome to create the best still and distillation equipment to meet your needs.

Show Partners:

Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com.
Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more.
Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com.
You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now.
Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com.
Total Wine and More is wonderland for wine, spirits, and beer lovers! Explore more in store or online at TotalWine.com.
Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com.

Show Notes:

This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about if bourbon goes bad.
When did you realize you had an interest for how distilleries work?
Tell us about your background.
What did you do for Vendome?
Tell us about the still designing process.
Do you prefer designing column or pot stills?
Where do you start when building a distillery?
Where do you use water for cooling?
How do you know how much power you need?
Where do you put stillage?
Who do you usually work with at a distillery?
What happens after you break ground?
What has advanced in distillery design?
Talk about fermentation tanks.
What's a standard pump?
Do you think past sanitation processes had an impact on the flavor of dusty bourbon?
How do you know how big a doubler needs to be?
What is a tailbox?
What do you need for fire safety in a distillery?
@stwengineers
Support this podcast on Patreon

Whiskey Quickie: Nashville Barrel Company Single Barrel Bourbon Review Nov 30, 2021

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review a Nashville Barrel Company Single Barrel. This 5 year old bourbon is 115.5 proof and $75 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!

Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com.

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.

TWiB: Pursuit United Rye Is Coming, A Semi-truck of Jack Daniel's Overturned, and Frey Ranch Distillery Announces Single Grain Series Nov 26, 2021

It's This Week in Bourbon for November 26th 2021. Here's the headlines for this week: Pursuit United Rye has been bottled and is coming soon. A semi-truck of Jack Daniel's overturned in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Frey Ranch Distillery announces their single grain series.

Show Notes:

Pursuit United Rye has been bottled!
Clay Risen has a new 4 part book Bourbon: The Story of Kentucky Whiskey
Ocado Group adds Yellowstone and Ezra Brooks
A semi-truck overturned in Murfreesboro, Tennessee carrying an estimated $400,000 worth of Jack Daniel’s
liquidcraft.io launches their first NFT called Dragons & Bourbon Series
Fred Minnick is hosting a bourbon tasting in New York City on December 8th in partnership with Michters
Brother's Bond Bourbon has donated $50,000 to Kiss The Ground
T-Pain has a new cocktail book called Can I Mix You A Drink: 50 Cocktails from My Life & Career
Jimmy Russell of Wild Turkey celebrated his 87th birthday last weekend
Jefferson’s Bourbon has debuted Ocean Voyage 24 called "Ship's Log"
Conecuh Brands is introducing four new expressions under its Clyde May’s Whiskey label
Frey Ranch Distillery launches their “Single Grain Series”
Blue Run Spirits has new releases for the 2021 holiday season
Four Gate Whiskey Company announces Rye DownUnder
The LEE Initiative and Maker’s Mark launch the second-annual limited-edition “CommUNITY Batch”
Lost Lantern is releasing three limited-edition single casks
Wolves Whiskey is partnering with Willett Distillery to launch The Rye Project, Volume One, Batch One
Field Rye Whiskey, created in collaboration with the Field Museum, will become available for purchase at O’Hare International Airport
Peerless is releasing for their second time, rye whiskey aged in absinthe barrels
@pursuitspirits @risenc @ocadouk @yelowstonebourbon @ezrabrooksbourbon @jackdaniels_us @craft_liquid @fredminnick @brothersbondbourbon @tpain @wildturkey @jeffersonsbourbon @clydemayswhiskey @freyranchdistillery @fourgatewhiskey @chefedwardlee @leeinitiative @makersmark @lostlanternwhiskey @willettdistillery @kentuckypeerless
Support this podcast on Patreon

333 - Chasing the Butterfly of Blue Run with Mike Montgomery and Tim Sparapani Nov 25, 2021

Now I have to admit, I remember the first time I heard of Blue Run Spirits and I had my reservations. Who were these guys with some 13 year old sourced product, a Nike shoe designer creating the packaging, the likes of Jim Rutledge putting his name to it, and they are charging over $150 a bottle!? A lot of those reservations began to disappear after I tasted their bourbon. It was really good. And then, the awards started piling up. Blue Run Spirits has been on a sprint more-so than run after launching in 2020. I'm joined by Mike Montgomery and Tim Sparapani, both co-founders of Blue Run, to talk about this journey and how they hit a turning point when people couldn't stop talking about their products. We talk about working with Jim Rutledge, moving from high aged to younger whiskeys, and how they are meeting a new demand in the market.

Show Partners:

Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com.
Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more.
Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com.
You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now.
Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com.
Total Wine and More is wonderland for wine, spirits, and beer lovers! Explore more in store or online at TotalWine.com.
Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com.

Show Notes:

This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the secondary market.
How did your whiskey journey begin?
Where did your two worlds collide?
Why bourbon?
Tell us how you went about sourcing your product.
How many barrels were your buying in the beginning?
Tell us about your packaging. How did you land on the butterfly?
How was it working with Jim Rutledge?
What was the turning point?
Are you concerned about selling younger aged products?
Talk about your pricing strategy.
What are you working on at Bardstown Bourbon Company?
@bluerunspirits
Support this podcast on Patreon

Whiskey Quickie: Blue Note Crossroads Bourbon Review Nov 23, 2021

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Blue Note Crossroads. This non-age stated bourbon is 100 proof and $40 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!

Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com.

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.

TWiB: No more "Jr" in Stagg Jr, Drizly's Data for Whiskey Gifts, and Old Elk Infinity Blend Nov 19, 2021

It's This Week in Bourbon for November 19th 2021. Here's the headlines for this week: Buffalo Trace announced that it will be dropping the word “Jr.” from Stagg Jr. Drizly shares the data collected for gift-giving whiskeys. Old Elk Infinity Blend is the best blend created by Master Distiller Greg Metze.

Show Notes:

Buffalo Trace announced that it will be dropping the word “Jr.” from its highly sought-after Stagg Jr. brand.
TTB Approved 179.6K Products in the last 12 months through October 2021.
Californian winemakers are venturing into other premium beverages.
Jack Daniel Distillery donates $100,000 to Armed Services YMCA (ASYMCA) for “Operation Ride Home”.
Chris Nolan recieved "ESPRIT DE CORPS" award from the KDA
Copperworks Distilling Co. is crowdfunding for a new expansion.
Drizly shares the data collected for gift-giving whiskeys.
Drizly has announced a collaboration with 7-Eleven.
Sonoma-Cutrer and Woodford Reserve announce a $50,000 joint donation to No Kid Hungry.
A new study comes out that says drinking above the age of 70 is good for heart health.
New Holland Spirits of Holland, MI will release Zeppelin Bend 10yr.
Castle & Key Distillery is officially launching a series of Restoration Rye Single Barrels.
Treaty Oak Ghost Hill Texas Bourbon No. 1767 is set to be released.
Heaven’s Door has collaborated with MGM Resorts on an exclusive limited-edition bourbon, 777 Blend.
Maverick Whiskey is releasing its limited-edition Samuel Maverick Barrel Proof Straight Bourbon Whiskey.
Old Elk Distillery recently unveiled a new limited edition expression, the Old Elk Infinity Blend.
@kentuckybourbontrail @buffalotracedistillery @jackdaniels_us @copperworksdist @drizlyinc @woodfordreserve @sonomacutrer @newhollandspirits @castleandkey @treatyoak @maverickwhiskey @oldelkbourbon @heavensdoorwhiskey
Support this podcast on Patreon

332 - What happened to George T Stagg and why do some MGP brands have hype? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #62 Nov 18, 2021

We've taken a bit of a hiatus, but we're back and we've got two topics that are hot. A few months ago, Buffalo Trace announced there would be no George T. Stagg in the 2021 release of the Antique Collection. Many theories arose such as holding it back on purpose to create a media frenzy or potentially having a new brand come from it. However, Buffalo Trace has gone on record saying it didn't reach the standard they come to expect from it. We'll analyze this from both sides. In the second half of the show, we'll look at the sheer volume of brands that are built on MGP and how some have hype and some are still finding their way.

Show Partners:

Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com.
Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more.
Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com.
You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now.
Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com.
Total Wine and More is wonderland for wine, spirits, and beer lovers! Explore more in store or online at TotalWine.com.
Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com.

Show Notes:

This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about bourbon advertising.
BTAC was missing George T. Stagg this year, what are your thoughts on this?
Do you think they are holding the bourbon back for another purpose?
Does it feel like a PR stunt?
What do you gain by going to the NY Times?
Did any of the BTAC bottles not live up to the hype?
Why do some MGP brands have more hype than others?
How sustainable are the higher priced MGP bourbons?
Is it hard to stay excited about MGP based brands?
Thanks to @bourbonr, @breakingbourbon, and @sippn_corn for joining.
@bourbonr @breakingbourbon @sippn_corn
Support this podcast on Patreon

Whiskey Quickie: Rabbit Hole Raceking Founder’s Collection Review Nov 16, 2021

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Rabbit Hole Raceking Founder’s Collection. This non-age stated bourbon is 109.2 proof and $295 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!

Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com.

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.

TWiB: DC Police In A Jack Daniel's Shipping Ring, Sagamore's First Maryland Rye Whiskey, and Baker's Exclusive Selection Nov 12, 2021

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 12th 2021. Here's the headlines for this week. DC Police Officers Ship Jack Daniels and didn't know it was illegal. Sagamore Spirit releases their first 4-Year-Old 100-Proof Bottled in Bond Maryland Distilled Straight Rye Whiskey. Baker's Bourbon introduces Baker's Exclusive Selection.

Show Notes:

Is the whisky bubble set to burst?
A Distillery worker at the Girvan distillery in Ayrshire was fired for urinating next to casks.
The DC police ship Jack Daniels and didn't know it was illegal.
Kentucky Mountain Moonshine Distillery is the newest KDA member.
The Kroger 2021 Ultimate Bourbon Auction to End Hunger will end on 11/21 https://ultimatebourbonauction.com/
Coack K was gifted a bottle of Pappy 23 from the other 3 head coaches of the Champions Classic.
ReserveBar has reached an agreement to acquire Minibar Delivery.
Filibuster Distillery has agreed to pay a $700,000 penalty.
Evan Williams Bourbon announced winners for the American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund grants.
Brad Paisley launches “American Highway” Bourbon.
Sagamore Spirit releases their 4-Year-Old 100-Proof Bottled in Bond Maryland Distilled Straight Rye Whiskey.
Blue Note Bourbon officially launches Blue Note Crossroads.
Baker's Bourbon introduces Baker's Exclusive Selection.
Grisly’s Cosmic Black is a new RTD that's bourbon and cola.
Buzzard’s Roost Whiskey has debuted its first Bourbon.
Treaty Oak Distilling announced a partnership with Whisky Meyers to create their first collaboration.
Turkey Tom bourbon arrives just in time for the holidays.
Why not. Arby's is introducing 2 new french-fry flavored vodkas.
@kentuckybourbontrail @heavenhilldistillery @jackdaniels_us @jimbeamofficial @krogerco @krogerchrispicks @reservebarspirits @minibardelivery @dukembb @filibusterdistillery @evanwilliamsbourbon @bradpaisley @sagamorespirit @bluenotebourbon @buzzardsroostwhiskey @treatyoak @whiskeymyers @arbys
Support this podcast on Patreon

331 - How Smoke Wagon Became a Bourbon Jewel with Aaron Chepenik Nov 11, 2021

Smoke Wagon felt as if it came on to the bourbon scene like it was fired out of a cannon. In the past 2 years, they have become one of the most highly sought after brands. However, the story of Smoke Wagon began over a decade ago. Aaron Chepenik started in the bar scene in LA that expanded into Vegas, but he got burnt out with the late nights and partying. That led him and his investor friend to start a vodka business which eventually opened the door to bourbon. Aaron had dreams of distilling his own whiskey, but quickly had to face reality when he realized that the equipment he purchased to distill whiskey couldn't scale after a visit to a little distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana. When he was at MGP, he ended up buying as much aged product as he could and had the foresight to begin putting down new fill barrels as well. As fate (or government restrictions) would have it, he couldn't release his first bourbon for almost 4 years after. He's built a cult-like following with his overly transparent personality on Instagram which makes him even more genuine to us bourbon enthusiasts.

Show Partners:

Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com.
Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more.
Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com.
You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now.
Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com.
Total Wine and More is wonderland for wine, spirits, and beer lovers! Explore more in store or online at TotalWine.com.
Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com.

Show Notes:

This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about future bourbon history.
Where did you first hear about Smoke Wagon?
Tell us about your background.
When did you get your first taste of whiskey?
Why did you start a bar in LA?
Tell us about your vodka business.
How did you decide to get into the bourbon business?
How is Smoke Wagon different than other MGP brands?
Take us through the design of the bottle.
Tell us about the stolen barrel.
Where can someone get one of your hats?
@smokewagonbourbon @aaron_from_nvdistilling
Support this podcast on Patreon

Whiskey Quickie: Jack Daniel's 10 Year Old Review Nov 09, 2021

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Jack Daniel's 10 Year Old. This 10 year whiskey is 97 proof and $70 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!

Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com.

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.

TWiB: E.U. Removes Retaliatory Tariffs, Kroger's Ultimate Bourbon Auction, Castle & Key and KBBG Collaborate for The Untold Story of Kentucky Whiskey Nov 05, 2021

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 8th 2021. Here's the headlines for this week. After 3 long years, the US and EU have agreed to remove retaliatory tariffs on bourbon exports. Kroger's ultimate bourbon auction will begin on 11/10 with some unicorns up for bids. Castle & Key and the Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild collaborate on a new extension called The Untold Story of Kentucky Whiskey.

Show Notes:

The U.S. and the E.U. have agreed to remove retaliatory tariffs on Kentucky Bourbon and American Whiskey.
25% tariffs in place in the UK because of Brexit.
Lux Row Distillers will undergo a $4 million expansion beginning in November.
The Idaho State Liquor Division has new rules in place for selling rare bourbons.
The Kroger 2021 Ultimate Bourbon Auction to End Hunger begin on November 10. Visit https://ultimatebourbonauction.com
Castle & Key announced a new line extension called The Untold Story of Kentucky Whiskey, Chapter 1 in partnership with The Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild (KBBG).
Tamworth Distilling has unveiled a roasted turkey-flavored whiskey, Bird Of Courage.
Wyoming Whiskey is releasing the fifth expression of its signature Outryder Straight American Whiskey.
Old Charter Oak French Oak is the latest release from Buffalo Trace Distillery.
All the Cookies Bourbon from Old Dominick is being rereleased.
Jack Daniel’s has announced the release of its 2021 Single Barrel Special Release, Coy Hill High Proof.
The 1st Straight Rosen Rye Whiskey made in the United States in over 50 years has officially been bottled by Stoll & Wolfe Distillery.
Woodford Reserve announces the release of its annual holiday bottle.
ZZ Top and Texas-based Balcones Distilling are collaborating on a new whiskey titled Tres Hombres.
New Belgium Brewing and Four Roses Bourbon announced the 2021 release of Oakspire Bourbon Barrel Ale.
Barrell Craft Spirits is releasing their 'BCS Gray Label' which are finished barrels of 24-year-old Canadian whiskey.
@krogerchrispicks @luxrowdistillers @castleandkey @tamworth_distilling @wyomingwhiskey @buffalotrace @olddominick @jackdaniels_us @stollandwolfewhiskey @woodfordreserve @balconesdistilling @zztop @newbelgium @fourrosesbourbon @barrellbourbon
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330 - Before the Bourbon Boom with Steve Ury aka Sku Nov 04, 2021

I've witnessed first hand the progression of bourbon over the past 6 years since this podcast began. It went from learning about new releases and hunting for them with relative ease to 72 hour campouts for bottles that used to be on the shelves. However, my time in bourbon doesn't match that of our guest's. Steve Ury, better known as Sku, is one of the original bloggers in bourbon before there were YouTubers and podcasters. He has backed off blogging, but still stays up to date with everything happening in bourbon and takes notice of how brands are changing. He's cynical about brands and the changing consumer, but that doesn't stop him from talking about every TTB label approval. Steve has also found a new home in brandy and we discuss how long it will take before Instagramers and podcasters ruin that too.

Show Partners:

Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com.
Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more.
Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com.
You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now.
Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com.
Total Wine and More is wonderland for wine, spirits, and beer lovers! Explore more in store or online at TotalWine.com.
Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com.

Show Notes:

This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about distilleries that have made the greatest impact on bourbon.
How did you get into bourbon?
Tell us about your blog and the time before the bourbon boom.
When did you get more cynical about bourbon?
When did you see the change where distilleries constantly had special releases?
Were dusties big early on?
Do you think vintage whiskey is overpriced?
Do you blame people or brands more for the bourbon culture today?
Do you still look at the TTB daily?
Tell us about your journey into brandy.
How long before the podcasters and Instagramers ruin brandy?

Whiskey Quickie: Little Book Chapter 5 "The Invitation" Review Nov 02, 2021

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Little Book Chapter 5 "The Invitation". This 2, 3, 5 and 15 year old blended bourbon is 116.8 proof and $125 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!

Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com.

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.

TWiB: Union Agrees to Heaven Hill Contract, 66 Page Report on Trade Disputes, Blue Run's High Rye Bourbon Oct 29, 2021

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 29th 2021. Here's the headlines for this week. Union workers agree to a new Heaven Hill contract. DISCUS files a 66 page report on trade and export disputes. Blue Run Spirits launches their first high rye bourbon.
Show Notes:

Union workers vote to accept a new contract with Heaven Hill distillery.
The Kentucky Distillers’ Association welcomes Three Boys Farm Distillery and Coal Pick Distillery.
Interbrand names Jack Daniel's the most valuable spirit brand in the world.
What's next for American whiskey?
Single-barrel whiskey offerings on Drizly has expanded by 12 percent in 2021.
NFT Tied to Rare Whiskey Cask Auctions for $2.3M.
Owens Corning introduced \"Bourbon\" as the 2022 Shingle Color of the Year.
The Kitchen Table restaurant coming to Jim Beam
DISCUS submitted a detailed report (66 pages to be exact) to the United States Trade Representative identifying key foreign trade barriers impeding U.S. distilled spirits exports.
2021 edition of Brooklyn Black Ops, a collaboration from Kentucky-based Four Roses Distillery and New York’s Brooklyn Brewery.
Jeptha Creed is releasing their first Bottled-In-Bond Rye Bourbon.
Blue Run Kentucky Straight High Rye Bourbon Whiskey is now available.
HIRSCH announces the debut of its Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.
Michter's 20 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon will mark the first release since 2019.
@kentuckybourbontrail @heavenhilldistillery @brownforman @jackdaniels_us @drizly @owenscorningroofing @jimbeamofficial @distilledspiritscouncil @brooklynbrewery @fourrosesbourbon @bluerunspirits @jepthacreed @michterswhiskey @hirschwhiskey
Support this podcast on Patreon

329 - To Source or Not To Source with Scott Schiller, Executive Director of Thoroughbred Spirits Group Oct 28, 2021

Starting a distillery is no easy task and figuring out how to bank roll it is even harder. Do you tie up all your money into equipment and wait a few years and hope the whiskey is good or is it smarter to supplement that with some sourced product? But beyond that, how do you scale, distribute, and sell? Scott Schiller from Thoroughbred Spirits Group has launched 30 distillers, designed over 50 brands, and facilitated 3 successful exits. He joins the show to talk about everything I just mentioned, but Scott also has a fascinating family history with spirits where he learned how to distill with his grandfather at an iconic Chicago tavern called Bucket O Suds.

Show Partners:

Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com.
Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more.
Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com.
You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now.
Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com.
Savor every drop of summer at Total Wine & More! You’re sure to find cool prices in-store or online at TotalWine.com.
Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com.

Show Notes:

This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about QR codes.
How did you get into this industry?
What company did your family start in Chicago?
What is Bucket O Suds?
Tell us about the distillery.
Talk about one of your early successes.
How do you approach the conversations with clients about scaling?
Do you see a lot of NDPs that previously bottled older whiskey and now can't get it?
Are a lot of people starting to scramble because there isn't as much access to aged whiskey?
How do you advise someone on distribution?
Do you ever have to tell clients sourcing might not work for them?
How do you start conversations with potential clients ?
Talk about bottle pricing.

Whiskey Quickie: 2021 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC) Review Oct 26, 2021

On this special edition of Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review the 2021 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. The collection includes: Eagle Rare 17 Year, William Larue Weller, Thomas H. Handy, and Sazerac Rye 18 Year. Each bottle has a suggested retail price of $99. What's our favorite this year? Watch to find out. Cheers!

Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com.

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.

TWiB: Heaven Hill Responds To The Union, KDA Welcomes Two New Members, New Riff Launches Red Turkey Wheat Oct 22, 2021

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 22nd 2021. Here's the headlines for this week. Heaven Hill will start hiring permanent replacement workers. The Kentucky Distillers Association welcomes two more members. New Riff launches Red Turkey Wheat bourbon

Show Notes:

Heaven Hill said it will start hiring permanent replacement workers for bottling and warehouse operations.
Brown-Forman is committing to 100% renewable electricity by 2030.
The Kentucky Distillers’ Association announced that Augusta Distillery and RD1 Spirits are joining.
Supreme Court Declines to Review 8th Circuit Ruling for Missouri on Retail Shipping Case
TTB put out an article that Federal law strictly prohibits individuals from producing distilled spirits at home.
New Hampshire House Bill 416 is about production of liquor for Personal or Family Use.
Brother’s Bond has purchased regeneratively farmed grain.
Molson Coors Beverage Company has released of its first-ever whiskey, Five Trail Blended American Whiskey.
Alberta Premium Cask Strength Rye 2021 release is returning to U.S.
Wyoming Whiskey’s Single Barrel Bourbon is available once again.
Bookers \"Bardstown Batch\" is the 3rd release of 2021.
WhistlePig has revealed the eighth edition of The Boss Hog: LapuLapu’s Pacific.
New Riff announces limited release Red Turkey Wheated Kentucky Straight Bourbon
@kentuckybourbontrail @heavenhilldistillery @brownforman @brothersbondbourbon @molsoncoors @albertadistillers @wyomingwhiskey @jimbeamofficial @whistlepigwhiskey @newriff
Support this podcast on Patreon

328 - How to BBQ & Bourbon Right with Malcom Reed Oct 21, 2021

I read a meme one time that as soon as a man enters his 30s, there are two hobbies he picks up. It's whiskey and smoking meats. Well, I'm guilty for it and I know Ryan and Fred are too. There's nothing better than starting the fire in your grill and preparing for the long night ahead making sure your brisket is done. I know when I started cooking on my grill, I went to the resource where you go to learn everything on internet and that's YouTube. Immediately, I was hooked on the channel called How To BBQ Right. I learned the 10 different ways to cook ribs, game day burgers, and even a delicious pot roast from our guest today, Malcom Reed. Malcom has made a name for himself in the BBQ competition circuit and has turned it into one of the largest BBQ places on the internet. You can find him on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok and more talking how to BBQ crazy good meals. Malcom joins us to talk not only about BBQ, Wagyu steaks, dry rub vs sauce, but he's also a big bourbon fan and you can catch him drinking Buffalo Trace or EH Taylor frequently on his channels. Don't forget to to subscribe to his podcast called, you guessed it, How to BBQ Right.

Show Partners:

Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com.
Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more.
Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com.
You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now.
Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com.
Savor every drop of summer at Total Wine & More! You’re sure to find cool prices in-store or online at TotalWine.com.
Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com.

Show Notes:

This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about working for distributors.
How did your passion for BBQ grow into a business?
How did you get into BBQ competitions?
Are there rivalries in the BBQ community?
Were you nervous when you first started putting out content?
How did you get into bourbon?
What bourbon pairs well with specific meats?
Do you prefer dry rub or sauce?
Do you ever get tired of cooking at home and prefer to go out?
Are Costco prime steaks as good as other butcher shops?
What do you think about wagyu beef?
What is your favorite way to cook tomahawk steaks?
What do you think about health organizations encouraging society to eat less meat?
You are stranded on an island and can only pick one cooking apparatus, what do you choose?
How do you chose what grill to use?
What do you think about Blackstone griddles?
What BBQ pit is your go to?
Do you like to turbo cook or low and slow?
Is using a pellet grill cheating?
What's your go to bourbon cocktail?
@howtobbqright

Whiskey Quickie: Blackened x Willett Straight Rye Finished in Madeira Casks Oct 19, 2021

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Blackened x Willett Straight Rye Finished in Madeira Casks. This non-age stated rye is 109.6 proof and $140 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!

Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com.

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.

TWiB: Elijah Craig's Old Fashioned Week, The Return of BTAC Maps, and Angel's Envy 2021 Cask Strength Release Oct 15, 2021

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 15th 2021. Here's the headlines for this week. Elijah Craig is having its second annual Old Fashioned Week. Breaking Bourbon takes over the BTAC Release map. Angel's Envy announces their limited edition cask strength release

Show Notes:

Elijah Craig recently announced its second annual Old Fashioned Week, posts will be automatically entered into the Old Fashioned Week Sweepstakes when tagging @elijahcraig.
The TTB approved 180K Products over the last 12 months through September 2021
Woodford Reserve is celebrating 25 years
Saddlestone Distillery has joined the KDA
Distilled Spirits Council of the United States says luxury market is growing
Breaking Bourbon carries the torch of owning the BTAC release map
New fakes in the secondary market now targeted towards dusties
Widow Jane Distillery announced that Decadence, finished in maple barrels, will return to retail shelves.
Restoration Rye 2021 Batch 2 and Batch 3 can be purchased at Castle & Key Distillery
Angel’s Envy announces its 2021 limited edition cask strength
Jos A Magnus has new 6 new Cigar Blend batches coming out
Old Elk Distillery out of Colorado is now going into cask finished variants
Lost Lantern has 3 new releases coming up
Elijah Craig has unveiled its latest Barrel Proof bourbon, C921
TX Whiskey announces the launch of TX Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Cognac Casks
Whisper Creek Spiked Coffee cocktails coming from Pennington
Oak & Eden Whiskey has announced a new chapter of its celebrity collaboration product, called the Anthro Series
@kentuckybourbontrail @oakandeden @penningtondistillingco @txwhiskey @lostlanternwhiskey @oldelkbourbon @josamagnus @breakingbourbon @woodfordreserve @pennyandsparrow
Support this podcast on Patreon

327 - Is Bourbon Broken? Part 4: Consumer Trends based off Bourbon & Banter Oct 14, 2021

It's the final episode in our 4 part series of "Is Bourbon Broken?" based on the Bourbon and Banter blog series. We've looked at the consumer, secondary market, distribution and retail, but this time we are looking back at the consumer from a different angle by evaluating purchasing trends. The market is changing and now there are craft distillers, younger age statements, and NDPs with price tags 10x the cost of what the original producer charges. So what continues to drive this behavior?

Show Partners:

Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com.
Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more.
Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com.
You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now.
Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com.
Savor every drop of summer at Total Wine & More! You’re sure to find cool prices in-store or online at TotalWine.com.
Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com.

Show Notes:

This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about pour spouts.
Are we seeing an overabundance of options on the market?
Why are consumers drawn towards brands that are selling younger MGP?
Are consumers being manipulated?
As bourbon enthusiasts, why are we compelled to try new products even though they might not actually be new?
Why is bourbon so polarizing?
Is there a reason that more distilleries or NDPs shouldn't be putting out new products at a higher price point?
As the bourbon pie grows larger, will there be more room for super premium bourbons that hit that $300+ price point?

Whiskey Quickie: King of Kentucky 2021 Review Oct 12, 2021

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review King of Kentucky 2021. This 14 year old bourbon is 130 proof and $250 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!

Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com.

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.

TWiB: MGP Gets Rebranded, KY Owl Construction Begins, and No Stagg for 2021 BTAC Oct 08, 2021

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 8th 2021. Here's the headlines for this week. MGP gets a somewhat rebrand to Ross & Squibb Distillery, Stoli hires David Mandell to lead KY Owl construction, and Buffalo Trace releases the details for the 2021 Antique Collection, but there's a big hitter missing this year.

Show Notes:

MGP gets a pseudo-rebrand to Ross & Squibb Distillery
Shout out to @barrelproofmarketing for the inight on brand confusion
ADI has released two new books targeted for distillers
Vinepair gives a history lesson in Blanton’s toppers
Kentucky now has over 10,000,000 barrels of bourbon aging
Stoli hires David Mandell to lead the KY Owl Distillery and Park contruction
JustDrinks.com predicts drink trends to come in the next few months
Diego has opened the first carbon neutral facility in Lebanon, KY
Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board puts limits of bourbon purchases
Good Deeds releases their first malt whiskey
Daylight Wine and Spirits releases Ammunition Straight Bourbon whiskey
Westward Whiskey introduces their barrel strength expression
Redemption rye has a new ex-cognax cask release
Peg Leg Porker releases Pitmaster Reserve 15 year
Kentucky Peerless releases their double oak
Woodford Reserve releases Chocolate Malt Whisper
High West unveils Midwinter Night’s Dram Act 9
Sazerac is releasing is second edition of Mister Sam
2021 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection is missing George T. Stagg
@mandelldavid @kentuckyowl @diageo @kentuckybourbontrail @westwardwhiskey @redemptionwhiskey @peglegporker @kentuckypeerless @woodfordreserve @drinkhighwest
Support this podcast on Patreon.

326 - Is Bourbon Broken? Part 3: Distribution and Retail based on Bourbon & Banter Oct 07, 2021

Welcome back to Part 3 on our series of "Is Bourbon Broken?" as we analyze the multi-part blog series from Bourbon & Banter. This episode is one that many have been waiting for as we evaluate the variable that is completely out of our control as a consumer and that's distribution and retail. We've challenged this system multiple times and I'm not sure if we'll ever figure out the correct answer, but how do we make sure it's always working in favor of the consumer? How should distributors reward stores differently? What does the future of commerce look like? And should distributors and retailers be wary of the digital age?

Show Partners:

Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com.
Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more.
Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com.
You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now.
Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com.
Savor every drop of summer at Total Wine & More! You’re sure to find cool prices in-store or online at TotalWine.com.
Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com.

Show Notes:

This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about celebrity whiskey.
Each state has its own laws on distribution, is this presenting a lot of challenges for the industry?
How do you reward stores without making them take on a bunch of inventory in order to get allocated items?
Do you feel that wholesalers and elected representatives are working for the benefit of the consumers?
Do you think that it's fair that retailers own the product and can charge whatever they want?
At the end of the day, everyone is still making their margin so why do retailers choose to mark it up?
Why don't more retailers push back on distributors?
Should distributors and retailers be scared about the future?
Should we move to a system where highly desirable releases only happen through a distillery website?

Whiskey Quickie: Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch 2021 Oct 05, 2021

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch 2021. This 12-16 year old bourbon is 114.2 proof and $150 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!

Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com.

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.

325 - Is Bourbon Broken? Part 2: The Secondary Market based off Bourbon & Banter Sep 30, 2021

Last week, we kicked off the series of analyzing Bourbon & Banter's article on "Is Bourbon Broken?" and this next installment looks at the secondary market. The prices of bourbon have been growing immensely and who knows if the prices will ever drop. Will there ever be an end in sight for consumers buying on the secondary or should companies adjust their prices accordingly? We tackle all this and more.

Show Partners:

Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com.
Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more.
Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com.
You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now.
Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com.
Savor every drop of summer at Total Wine & More! You’re sure to find cool prices in-store or online at TotalWine.com.
Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com.

Show Notes:

This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about mixing bourbon.
Are people forced to buy special bottles on the secondary market these days?
Is it foolish to buy bottles for so much more than retail?
How can you deter bottle flipping?
Is there anything distilleries can do to prevent flipping on the secondary market?
At what point will we hit the price ceiling?
Is it ethical for distillers to look at pricing on the secondary market to make business decisions?
Are auctions setting the secondary prices of bottles?
How do auctions get a pass unlike the secondary market?
Are current pricing strategies fair to the consumer?

Whiskey Quickie: Stagg Jr. Dallas Bourbon Club Single Barrel Sep 28, 2021

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review a Stagg Jr. Single Barrel pick from the Dallas Bourbon Club. This non-age stated bourbon is 134.4 proof. Let us know what you think. Cheers!

Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com.

DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

324 - Is Bourbon Broken? Part 1: The Consumer based off Bourbon & Banter Sep 23, 2021

Welcome to the first part in a series of "Is Bourbon Broken?" where we take an in-depth look at a multi-part blog series from Bourbon and Banter. In these four episodes, we are going to look at the consumer, the secondary market, retailers and distributors, and then wrap it up once again evaluating the consumer. In this first part, we take a long hard look at the consumer. Are every day bourbon drinkers the ones to blame? What compels people to stand in line for Blanton's? But ultimately, what can we all do as bourbon enthusiasts to educate the broader mass market?

Show Partners:

Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com.
Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more.
Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com.
You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now.
Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com.
Savor every drop of summer at Total Wine & More! You’re sure to find cool prices in-store or online at TotalWine.com.
Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com.

Show Notes:

This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about bourbon containers.
What has helped grow bourbon to where it is today?
Is Fred Minnick to blame?
Why are people still standing in line for Blanton's?
Limited releases vs. every day shelf items.
How do we educate consumers?
What were your thoughts on Facebook groups in the early days?
What do you find exciting when doing tastings?
Is chasing bottles with specific dates or batches part of the problem?
What advice would you give to everyday consumers?

Whiskey Quickie: Booker's Tagalong Batch 2021-02 Review Sep 21, 2021

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Booker's Tagalong Batch 2021-02. This 6 year 5 month old bourbon is 127.9 proof and $90 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!

Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com.

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.

323 - A Broker Joins the KDA, Union Strikes, and Best Bourbon Marketers on Bourbon Community Roundtable #61 Sep 16, 2021

Last week, White Dog Trading became the newest member of the Kentucky Distillers' Association. This is the first time a bourbon broker that helps clients source whiskey has become a member. How does White Dog benefit from joining and vice-versa? Union strikes are not uncommon in bourbon. We've seen them happen plenty of times over the past few decades. We will touch on the latest strike to hit the bourbon market. We wrap up the show by talking about who is doing the best at bourbon marketing.

Show Partners:

Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com.
Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more.
Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com.
You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now.
Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com.
Savor every drop of summer at Total Wine & More! You’re sure to find cool prices in-store or online at TotalWine.com.
Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com.

Show Notes:

This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about forests and barrels.
Above the Char Link on White Oak Regeneration: https://www.srs.fs.usda.gov/compass/2020/05/12/white-oak-regeneration-in-canopy-gaps/
White Dog joins the KDA making it the first broker to join. What are your thoughts on brokers joining the KDA?
Are there any downsides?
Heaven Hill union goes on strike. What impacts do unions have on the bourbon industry?
Who's the best at bourbon marketing?
Thanks to @bourbonr, @breakingbourbon, and @sippn_corn for joining.

Whiskey Quickie: Hunt & Gather 15 Year Canadian Whisky Review Sep 14, 2021

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Hunt & Gather 15 Year Canadian Whisky. This 15 year old Canadian whisky is 121 proof and $70 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!

Whiskey Quickie is brought to you by Barrell Bourbon. Learn more at BarrellBourbon.com.

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.

322 - Reviving DSP-KY-10 to It's Original Glory with Jacob Call, Master Distiller of Green River Distilling Co. Sep 09, 2021

Back on episode 128, we had Jacob Call on to talk about OZ Tyler. Back then, it was all about TerrePURE and making overnight bourbon. Jacob joins the show again to talk about overcoming the perception that OZ Tyler left behind since it's now been rebranded back to the original name of the site, Green River Distilling. Jacob and the team at Green River have been doing traditional barrel aging since the very beginning and we feel they are producing some of the best bourbon at a young age, to the point where we are seeing contract brands such as Bradshaw Bourbon emerge.

Show Partners:

Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com.
Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more.
Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com.
You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now.
Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com.
Savor every drop of summer at Total Wine & More! You’re sure to find cool prices in-store or online at TotalWine.com.
Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com.

Show Notes:

This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about future dusty bourbon.
What was it like growing up with family in the whiskey business?
Tell us about the history of the Green River project.
Talk about the transition from the OZ Tyler name to Green River.
Did you draw inspiration for the packaging from historic packaging?
What is going to be your flagship offering?
Are you using the TerrePURE process?
Tell us about the Yellow Banks whiskey.
How did you determine your mash bill?
Are you doing a lot of experimentation?
Talk about your warehouses.
How many cases per year will Yellow Banks be?
What are the differences between your brands and the contract brands?
Are you guiding the brands that are contracting with Green River?
Was it hard to sell off barrels early on to fund the business?
What do you think will happen to this bourbon when it ages to 6-7 years?
What should be changed in the bourbon world?
Have you thought about doing a private barrel pick program?

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