The Bourbon Life

Latest Episodes:

The Whiskey Trip - Season 4, Episode 21 - Craig Engelhorn - Spirit Hound Distilers May 26, 2026

Show notes

This week on The Whiskey Trip Podcast, Big Chief heads to Lyons, Colorado — the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park — to sit down with Craig Engelhorn from Spirit Hound Distillers for a ride through mountain whiskey culture and handcrafted American Single Malt.

With a deep brewing background, Craig shares how his passion for grain and fermentation shaped Spirit Hound's whiskey program, along with the story behind the incredible still he hand crafted himself.

On the first half, the guys sip Spirit Hound's American Single Malt with a touch of peated malt before diving into their Bottled in Bond Palo Cortado Finished American Single Malt loaded with dark fruit, roasted nuts, and an unforgettable horehound candy finish.

The second half climbs even higher with the Colorado Honey Finished American Single Malt, where the honey enhances the whiskey without overpowering it. They finish the ride with a monster rye whiskey made from 70% rye and 30% malted barley bottled at a staggering 155.6 proof. Big, bold, spicy, and unapologetic just like the Rocky Mountains it calls home.

Take the Ride with Big Chief.

Cheers.

Season 7, Episode 11: Nikki King, Owner - Tannins & Proof Hospitality Consulting May 22, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast, Matt & Mark welcome special guest Nikki King, Owner of Tannins & Proof Hospitality Consulting, for a fun, flavorful, and hospitality-driven conversation that blends great bourbon with great cocktails and even better stories.

Across three lively segments, Nikki shares her journey in the hospitality world, her passion for creating memorable guest experiences, and her thoughts on the ever-evolving bourbon and cocktail scene. The conversation dives into everything from cocktail creativity and hospitality trends to bourbon culture, entertaining at home, and what it really takes to create unforgettable experiences around great pours.

Of course, no visit from Nikki would be complete without incredible drinks. During the episode, they enjoy a delicious Strawberry Mint Julep crafted by Nikki especially for the show, taste and review the new Very Olde St. Nick Immaculata from Preservation Distillery, and wrap things up with another Nikki creation — a fantastic plum-infused Cocchi di Torino Vermouth concoction that had everyone reaching for another sip.

As always, the conversation is relaxed, entertaining, and full of laughs, honest pours, and plenty of bourbon passion. Whether you're a cocktail enthusiast, bourbon lover, or someone who simply appreciates great hospitality, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Pour yourself something tasty, settle in, and enjoy this flavorful episode with Nikki King.

This Episode is sponsored by District 7 and The Kitchen Table at the James B. Beam Distilling Co.

The Whiskey Trip - Season 4, Episode 20 - Paul Dunning - 13th Century Whiskey May 19, 2026

Show notes

This week on The Whiskey Trip Podcast, Big Chief rides into the shadow of Pikes Peak to sit down with Paul Dunning from 13th Century Whiskey in beautiful Colorado Springs.

Paul has built something truly unique in the whiskey world — a brand where every bottle is part of the experience. Each handcrafted release features a blown glass figure inside, from copper stills and aging barrels to incredible wildlife designs, making these bottles true shelf pieces and instant conversation starters.

Crafted at the base of Pikes Peak, 13th Century Whiskey ages its spirits in small 30-gallon barrels, creating bold cask-strength pours packed with flavor while remaining remarkably smooth.

Big Chief kicks things off with the Reserve Rye at 143 proof — unfiltered and unapologetic. Dark caramel, black pepper, baking spice, and toasted oak explode from the glass before finishing with a long warming spice.

He then moves to the Reserve Bourbon at 142.2 proof to close out the first half. Vanilla bean, maple syrup, dark cherry, and caramelized sugar coat the palate with a rich oily mouthfeel that drinks far smoother than the proof suggests.

On the second half, Big Chief pours the Cigar Blend — a toasted barrel-finished bourbon at 141 proof — and immediately gets transported back to childhood campfires and s'mores. Toasted marshmallow, graham cracker, melted chocolate, espresso, and charred oak create one unforgettable pour.

To finish the ride, Big Chief pours their American Single Malt at 134.4 proof, which quickly became the star of the show. Honey, toasted malt, dark fruit, chocolate-covered raisins, and subtle smoke deliver a rich and balanced finish that refused to quit.

Throughout the episode, Paul shares the story behind building 13th Century Whiskey, the inspiration behind the unforgettable bottles, and the passion required to stand apart in today's whiskey world.

Take the Ride. Cheers.

The Whiskey Trip - Season 4, Episode 19 - Ms. Viv - The Heart Behind the Ride May 12, 2026

Show notes

This week on The Whiskey Trip Podcast, Big Chief pulls back the curtain and introduces listeners to the woman behind the ride — Ms. Viv.

For years, she's been the quiet strength behind the microphone, the steady hand through the miles, and the heart that helped keep this journey moving forward. From long road trips and whiskey festivals to distillery visits and late-night recordings, Ms. Viv has stood beside Big Chief with unconditional love and support while embracing the whiskey life every step of the way. Along the journey, she became more than just a supporter — she became a true Whiskey Trippin' Woman.

On the first half, they sip on Giant Texas Distillery's Cask Strength Honey Cask from Houston, Texas, as Viv shares stories from years of traveling whiskey country together. From meeting incredible people to seeing firsthand how whiskey brings folks together, she opens up about life behind the scenes of The Whiskey Trip.

On the second half, they pour Maker's Mark Cask Strength and reflect on the ride they've built together — the sacrifices, the laughter, the memories, and the bond that turned a passion for whiskey into something much bigger than either of them imagined.

This episode is heartfelt, honest, and full of gratitude for the woman who has been there through it all.

The woman. The support. The soul.

The Whiskey Trip wouldn't be the same without her.

Episode out now. Take the Ride. Cheers.

The Whiskey Trip - Season 4, Episode 18 - Aaron & Gavin - The Noble Dram May 05, 2026

Show notes

This week on The Whiskey Trip, Big Chief rides into Houston, Texas to link up with the crew from The Noble Dram—a show that's built its reputation on exploring whiskey from around the world and delivering tasting notes that help you decide what's worth the chase.

Aaron and Gavin bring that global perspective, and this episode turns into a true collaboration—stories, insight, and pours that stretch from Georgia to Texas and beyond.

On the first half, Big Chief pours something special—Effie Jewel from Doc Brown Farm & Distillers. This limited run, four-year-old Georgia bourbon is crafted with heirloom Jimmy Red corn, then sent to the Texas Coast where six months of humidity and salt air shape it into a bold, one-of-a-kind pour.

Then on the second half, he shifts gears and opens up an 8-year-old cask strength Jimmy's from Kiepersol Distillery—and this one flat out delivers. It's loaded with a stunning rye spice that hits with authority, layered with that unmistakable horehound candy note that lingers and pulls you right back in for another sip.

But this ride isn't just about what's in the glass. The conversation drifts into hometown sports—loyalty, pride, and the teams that raised us—and rolls right into BBQ philosophy, where opinions run strong and tradition matters just as much as technique.

This episode is about more than whiskey—it's about culture, community, and the stories that come with every pour.

Take the Ride with Big Chief. Cheers.

Season 7, Episode 10: The Bourbon Life Crew - Unscripted & Unfiltered May 01, 2026

Show notes

In this Episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast, Mark and the Crew are back behind the mics for another laid-back Crew hang—just good bourbon, sharp takes, and the kind of unfiltered conversation that always seems to take on a life of its own. With Chad out this time, the dynamic shifts just enough to keep things interesting, and the Crew leans into it with plenty of laughs, industry insight, and a few moments that wander delightfully off script.

Across three segments, the conversation covers some of the biggest headlines currently buzzing around the bourbon world. The Crew dives into the news of MGP Ingredients halting production for brands like Lux Row Distillers and Limestone Branch Distillery, unpacking what it could mean for sourced whiskey and the broader market. They also tackle the growing debate over whether single barrel picks are starting to lose their shine in an increasingly saturated space—offering some honest (and likely controversial) opinions along the way. And of course, there's plenty of discussion around the headline-grabbing rumor of Sazerac Company potentially making a massive move to acquire Brown‑Forman, and what a deal of that scale could mean for the future of the industry.

On the tasting side, the Crew puts three bottles through their paces: the new Bardstown Bourbon Company Cascadia Garryana Oak Bourbon, Jim Beam Single Barrel Bourbon, and the highly anticipated 2026 release of Star Hill Farm Whiskey. As always, the reviews are candid, the palates are honest, and the reactions are exactly what you'd expect—ranging from pleasantly surprised to "let's talk about this…"

It's another classic Crew Episode—relaxed, entertaining, and packed with bourbon knowledge, strong opinions, and just enough chaos to make you feel like you're right there at the table with them.

This episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast is sponsored by District 7 Social and The Kitchen Table at The James B. Beam Distilling Co.

The Whiskey Trip - Season 4, Episode 17 - Mark Rucker, The Bourbon Life Apr 28, 2026

Show notes

This week on The Whiskey Trip, Big Chief takes a ride with Mark Rucker from the The Bourbon Life Podcast—a show built on one simple truth: bourbon isn't just something you drink… it's a journey you live.

This episode is all about the conversation.

Big Chief puts Mark in the hot seat—digging into how The Bourbon Life got its start, the road it's taken, and the people and moments that shaped it along the way. It's real talk about podcasting, passion, and staying authentic in a world where bourbon just keeps getting bigger.

And yeah… the pours are flowing.

Big Chief lines up:

Eagle Rare 10 Year Bourbon

Henry McKenna 10 Year Bottled-in-Bond

Russell's Reserve 10 Year Bourbon

Knob Creek 10 Year Blender's Cut — one that might just be creeping into Big Chief's Whiskey of the Year conversation

Mark brings his own fire:

Eagle Rare Store Pick

Henry McKenna 10 Year Bottled-in-Bond

Knob Creek 12 Year Bourbon 120 Proof

But this ride isn't about breaking down tasting notes—it's about the questions, the stories, and the perspective from both sides of the mic.

From bourbon culture and hype to where things are headed next, Big Chief keeps it honest and keeps it moving—pulling out the kind of conversation you only get when two guys who live this stuff sit down and let it ride.

Because at the end of the day… it's not about the bottle.

It's about the story behind it.

Take the Ride with Big Chief. Cheers

The Whiskey Trip - Season 4, Episode 16 - Preston Wall, Frontline Heroes Outdoors Apr 21, 2026

Show notes

This week on The Whiskey Trip podcast, Big Chief sits down with Preston Wall for a ride that goes beyond the glass, diving into service, sacrifice, and the power of real connection. Frontline Heroes Outdoors (FHO) is a Texas-born 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting active duty military, veterans, law enforcement, and first responders—along with their families, with a strong focus on spouses of deployed members and Gold Star Families. Through outdoor adventures and shared experiences, FHO creates a space where camaraderie is rebuilt, purpose is rediscovered, and no one has to carry the weight alone.

On the first half, Big Chief pours a 12-year Old Charter Oak French Oak while Preston shares how it all began. Aged in rare French Oak, this bourbon delivers rich sweetness, subtle oak influence, and a silky, refined texture that sets the tone for a powerful story of mission and impact.

On the second half, Big Chief cracks into the new Blender's Edition 01 from Knob Creek, the first in a limited series focused on the art of blending. This release brings bold notes of dark vanilla, honey, and rich spice. At 10 years old, 106 proof, and priced at $39.99, it raises the question of whether Jim Beam is signaling a shift—bringing real value back to the shelf.

Preston also sips on one of FHO's barrel picks from Southern Spirits Collective, highlighting a key part of their mission. These hand-selected barrels aren't just great whiskey—they're tied directly to giving back. Each pick helps support the heroes and families FHO serves, turning every pour into something bigger than the glass. It's whiskey with purpose, building community one bottle at a time.

This episode is about more than great whiskey. It's about honoring those who serve, building something meaningful, and supporting a mission that truly matters.

Take the Ride with Big Chief. Cheers

Season 7, Episode 9: Bennett Clark, President, and Royce Blevins, Lead Founder - Burnt Tavern Bourbon Apr 17, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast, Mark and the Matt sit down with Bennett Clark, President, and Royce Blevins, Lead Founder, of Burnt Tavern Bourbon from William Berkele Distillery, for a great conversation centered around some amazing Kentucky history and a new brand bringing that history back to life.

Across three segments, the guys dive into Bennett and Royce's respective and unique backgrounds and how that led them both to the Bourbon world, the incredible history and story of the William Berkele Distillery and the Burnt Tavern of Garrard County, as well as what the future looks like for the brand and Distillery.

The conversation blends industry insight with plenty of laughs, behind-the-scenes perspective, and the kind of easygoing camaraderie that makes these episodes feel like you're right there at the table.

They also taste and review the initial release from William Berkele Distillery, their flagship Burnt Tavern 7-Year Old Bourbon.

From thoughtful discussion about the history of the brand to honest reviews of what's in the glass, this episode delivers a great mix of information and entertainment for bourbon fans of all levels.

Pull up a chair, pour yourself something good, and enjoy this episode with Bennett Clark and Royce Blevins.

This episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast is sponsored by District 7 Social and The Kitchen Table at The James B. Beam Distilling Co.

The Whiskey Trip - Season 4, Episode 15 - Shelley Sackier - Virginia Heritage Grain Project Apr 14, 2026

Show notes

This week, Big Chief takes you on a ride that doesn't just sip whiskey… it digs it straight out of the dirt and pours history into your glass.

The show kicks off with a bold pour of Old Kernel from Ironclad Distillery Co.—a whiskey that sets the tone for what's ahead. Rich, rooted, and unapologetically tied to place, it's the perfect way to open a conversation about grain, heritage, and identity.

Big Chief sits down with Shelley Sackier, who brings more than knowledge—she brings purpose. Her journey through whiskey has led her beyond barrels and into the soil of Virginia, chasing something deeper than flavor… chasing origin.

At the heart of this episode is the Virginia Heritage Grain Project, a movement focused on reviving the grains that built American whiskey as far back as 1620. This isn't about nostalgia—it's about rediscovery. About taking grains that were lost to time and putting them back where they belong… in the ground, in the mash, and in your glass.

But this project isn't a solo act.

Distillers across Virginia are stepping up to be part of something bigger:

• Mary Allison at Reservoir Distillery, leading the charge by turning heritage grains into living, breathing whiskey

• Owen King of Ironclad Distillery Co., pushing the idea that whiskey should reflect where it's grown, not just how it's made

Together, they're building a new path—pairing farmers and distillers, one grain at a time, to create true grain-to-glass whiskey rooted in Virginia soil.

Heritage corn

Heritage rye

Heritage wheat

Heritage barley

These aren't your high-yield, modern crops. These are grains selected for flavor, for character, for story. Pulled from seed banks, historic farms, and collections that predate modern agriculture, they bring something back to whiskey that's been missing… soul.

Standout grains like Seashore Black Rye are already proving what's possible—delivering bold, earthy, spice-driven profiles that hit different than anything coming off today's commodity grain market.

On the second half, Big Chief leans into the glass with a wheated whiskey from Reservoir Distillery—soft, layered, and full of depth—before stepping into bold territory with their Milk Stout Bourbon. A whiskey that pushes boundaries and shows exactly what happens when innovation meets tradition.

This episode isn't just about whiskey.

It's about where it comes from.

Who grows it.

Who fights to preserve it.

Because before the barrel…

Before the still…

There was the grain.

And Virginia is bringing it back.

Take the Ride with Big Chief. Cheers