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Join us for an epic dive into San Francisco's whiskey scene on this episode of Bourbon With Friends! Hosts Brian, Germ, and Martin reunite with special guest Kevin Aslan, Head Distiller at Hotaling & Co. (formerly Anchor Distilling), to unpack the magic behind Old Potrero Rye, Hirsch Selected Bourbons, and more. From pot-still secrets to bold barrel finishes, Kevin spills on his journey from brewer to blender—and we taste some mind-blowing samples that prove why SF spirits are shaking up the game.
Episode Highlights:
- Banter & Banter: We kick off with "minute" philosophy (spoiler: it's basically "never"), earworm cures via twisted lyrics, and a whiskey-fied "San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair)."
- Old Potrero Deep Dive: Bottle evo, the single malt debate (rye edition), lessons from "bad batch" finishes, and why Briess Malt from Wisconsin keeps their 100% malted rye so fruity and fierce.
- Tasting Time: A 10+ year single barrel Old Potrero (OP6-14-7, ~130 proof) explodes with dark stone fruit, baking spices, and that elusive oolong tea retrohale. Plus, Hirsch's Departure American Single Malt (100% Maris Otter barley, new oak) delivers liquid bread vibes and black licorice punch—don't sleep on this one!
- Hirsch Lowdown: Sourced innovation (no distillery here!), high-malt bourbons like Silver Barrel, and why new make can surprise.
- Kevin's Faves: Childhood Old Fashioned cherries (shoutout to Luxardo imports), plus Heaven Hill gems and Sazerac Rye for everyday wins.
Whether you're a rye rebel, single malt snob, or just love friends + firewater, this one's a pour-you-can't-miss. What's YOUR go-to earworm fix or low-proof hidden gem? Drop it in the comments!
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Guest Name: Kevin Hotaling
Guest Company: Hotaling & Co.
Guest Website: https://www.hotalingandco.com/
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Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/hotalingandco/
Sponsor Website: https://10thwhiskey.com/ use code “BWF15” for 15% off
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