Bourbon Pursuit

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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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
• Support this podcast on Patreon

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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?

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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.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

• 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

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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.

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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.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

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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

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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. 

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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

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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?

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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.

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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.

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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? 

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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. 

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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?

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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.

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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?

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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?

Support this Podcast on Patreon

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On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Chattanooga Whiskey Bottled In Bond. This 4 year old bourbon is 100 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.

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Cigars... they are one of the best ways to enjoy a nice glass of bourbon. The flavors and aromas all become enhanced into a better overall experience. We talked about cigars and bourbon back on episode 129 with Jeremy and Jake from Jake's Cigar Lounge, but this time we're joined by Ibis Lu. She's a Cigar Sommelier and Certified Bourbon Steward, but also operates the Instagram account @Cigarlover12. She's probably been smoking cigars for longer than me and you combined. We talk about aging cigars, fake cubans, and the overhyped barrel aged cigars.

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 age statements.
• What got you into cigars?
• When did you have your first cigar?
• Talk about the history of cigars in Cuba.
• Are there are a lot of fake Cuban cigars?
• What cigar do you recommend for pairing with bourbon?
• How many cigars do you smoke a day?
• Do you take tasting notes on cigars?
• How do you get rid of the cigar taste in your mouth?
• How do they age cigars?
• What are your thoughts on barrel aged cigars?
• What is a good amount to spend on a humidor?
• Tell us about your journey in bourbon.
• Is the cigar community like the bourbon community?
• Do you prefer pairing cigars with bourbon or Scotch?

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On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Smooth Ambler Contradiction Rye. This non-age stated rye is 105 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. 

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Back on Episode 295, the roundtable discussed when does craft whiskey stop becoming craft whiskey. Well, the internet is full of opinions and we heard every last one of them. Many of whom said, "Why don't you get some real craft distillers on the show and ask them?" Well, we took your advice and did just that. We're joined by Becky Harris of Catoctin Creek and Alan Bishop from Spirits of French Lick to talk about what craft means to them. We also discuss their thoughts on sourcing and how they overcome the craft stigma to set themselves apart from the rest.

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 the influence of social media for brands.
• What got you into whiskey?
• What does craft mean to you?
• How do we get past the craft stigma?
• What are the positives of being in craft whiskey?
• How do you feel about the sourced whiskey game?
• Has the popularity of bourbon helped your business?
• Talk about your experience over the past year.
• @catoctincreek, @spiritsoffrenchlick

Support this Podcast on Patreon

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On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Walker's Cay Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 90 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.

Support this Podcast on Patreon

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On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Maker's Mark RC6. This is Maker's Mark's first national limited release. It's non-age stated, 108.2 proof, and $60 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!

DISCLAIMER: This whiskey in this review was purchased by Bourbon Pursuit for reviewing. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

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It's the 60th Bourbon Community Roundtable where we've got 3 topics of recent news to cover. Beam Suntory is launching new subscription models for Little Book and Maker's Mark which makes us wonder if this trend will continue for most major distilleries. Fall release season is around the corner so Jordan from Breaking Bourbon picks out 5 releases to discuss. Lastly, George Dickel has released a bourbon, which is the same recipe as their Tennessee Whiskey, why would they do that?

Show Notes:

• This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about climate and the aging process.
• Bourbon Subscriptions
• 5 Limited Releases to Watch
• Dickel releases bourbon.
• Thanks to Blake (@bourbonr @drinkseelbachs), Jordan from Breaking Bourbon (@breakingbourbon), and Brian (@sippn_corn) for joining in another lively discussion.

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On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Old Forester 2021 Birthday Bourbon. This 12 year old bourbon is 104 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.

Support this Podcast on Patreon

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So what is a dusty bourbon? Well... it's just an old bourbon. The idea was that these were bottles that used to sit on the shelves and collect dust. Now a days, these are rare gems and lots of bourbon hunters go crazy looking for them. Unfortunately, the days of finding a 1980s Old Grand Dad on the shelf are long gone, but we sit down and analyze what makes a dusty a dusty.

Show Notes:

• This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about yeast.
• What's the allure of dusties?
• What makes dusties different?
• Are there any dusities you should stay away from?
• Let's discuss bourbon hunting?
• What do you consider a dusty?
• What's your best dusty score?
•  What are your thoughts on decanters?

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On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Taconic Mizunara Cask Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 107 proof and $90 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!

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.

Support this Podcast on Patreon

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About twice a year we have a guest on the show that just amazes us with the science behind bourbon. Stuart Williams is a professor that directs the microfluidic systems laboratory at the University of Louisville. He discovered that when bourbon begins evaporating, it creates a web that resembles constellations in the dark sky. Stuart was able to document his findings and show how bourbons that come from the same distillery create similar webs. Pictures speak louder than words so make sure you check out his website at WhiskeyWebs.org to see the stunning representations.

Show Notes:

• This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about sourced whiskey.
• How did you become so passionate about this research?
• Tell us about fluid dynamics.
• What is a whiskey web?
• Talk about filtration.
• Is it good to have more colloids vs. less?
• Tell us about the physics of evaporation.
• What proof were you testing at?
• Will 3 different bottles of the same whiskey have the same pattern?
• Which bourbon didn't show a web?
• What other things could you test with this research?
• Could you use the whiskey web to determine taste?
• WhiskeyWebs.org

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On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Bespoken Spirits Rye Whiskey. This rapid aged rye whiskey is 100 proof and $40 MSRP (375mL). Let us know what you think. Cheers!

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.

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We’ve had the opportunity to interview lots of great people from Michter's such as their Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson, President Joseph Magliocco, and their former Master Distiller Pam Heilmann. When Pam retired in April of 2019, Dan McKee stepped in. Dan worked alongside Pam at Jim Beam for many years and has a wealth of industry knowledge. We talk about selecting barrels for the 20 and 25 year old releases and learn more about what goes into their everyday products.

Show Notes:

• This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about local store relationships.
• What's the funniest animal you've owned as a pet?
• Are there ever any bad barrels when selecting Michter's 20 and 25?
• What is your process for choosing older releases?
• How did you train your palate to pick these releases?
• What was it like working at Jim Beam?
• What can you tell us about your yeast?
• Talk about the distillery.
• Do you have specific protocols for picking barrels from certain places in the warehouse?
• How big are the batches?
• Is it easier to blend smaller batches?
• What was the transition like to Master Distiller?
• Do you overlap job tasks with Andrea?
• Are you a morning taster?
• What variations do you see in barrel proof?
• Does lower entry proof age well?
• What about the heat cycled warehouses?
• Talk about the toasted barrel craze.
• Any professional goals for 2021?
• @michterswhiskey, @michtersmasterdistiller

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On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Dubliner Irish Whiskey. This 3 year old whiskey is 80 proof and $30 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.

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On this Bourbon Community Roundtable, we do an in-depth analysis of The Bourbon King, two episodes from the Netflix series Heist. Now I have to warn you, if you haven't seen it yet this is full of spoilers. If you plan on watching it, go watch it and then come back and listen. On the 2nd half of the episode, we talk about the new executive order coming straight from the Whitehouse that is going to put a microscope on the alcohol industry and look at unfair trade practices when it comes to distribution and competition.

Show Notes:

• This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about tasting notes.
• Breaking down Netflix's Heist featuring Pappygate, the story of Gilbert “Toby” Curtsinger, an employee at Buffalo Trace that stole hundreds of thousands of dollars of Pappy Van Winkle.
• Do you think Buffalo Trace let them film on property?
• Who is Moonshine Mike?
• How do you steal a barrel and where do you hide it?
• What are your thoughts on the sheriff sensing it was an inside job right away?
• Do you think the sheriff was media hungry?
• What do you think of the sentencing?
• How was his wife not aware?
• How will the executive order on promoting competition in the American economy impact distributors and distribution?
• Thanks to @bourbonr, @breakingbourbon, and @sippn_corn for joining.

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On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Three Chord Strange Collaboration Batch 1. This 2-6 year old finished bourbon is 99 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.

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$1000 bottles, store price gouging, and bots taking bottles. These are some of the most annoying trends with bourbon releases. The team gets together and analyzes what we're seeing in the current environment and air some grievances, but we always try to find a silver lining on what we see as some positive trends as well.

Show Notes:

• This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about limited edition bottles.
• What do you think of the press releases?
• Would you rather see special whiskey in limited edition bottles?
• What do you think about price gouging at the store level?
• How should liquor stores handle limited releases?
• What is annoying about limited releases?
• Any advantages to online releases?

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On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Bradshaw Bourbon. This 2 year old bourbon is 103.8 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.

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