Bourbon Lens is a discussion amongst friends over bourbon. During this project, we look to explore the bourbon industry, learn more about our favorite spirit, and even interview bourbon industry insiders, makers, entrepreneurs, and business people. Bourbon Lens is about all of this and more. We welcome you on this journey and found that the best way to document it is in podcast form. Bourbon Lens is made up of 3 friends; Jake, Michael, and Scott. We have different backgrounds, but we all have ties to Kentucky, the bourbon capital of the world. We have all grown to have an appreciation for Kentucky’s native spirit and enjoy our time together over bourbon. We welcome you to pop that cork from your whiskey bottle and join us. We are always looking for show topics, discussion starters, and new whiskies to try. Contact us on social media or send us an email to: TheBourbonLens@gmail.com with ideas, comments, or questions.
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The Bourbon Lens podcast is a delightful and informative show that provides listeners with a down-to-earth feel. The hosts, Michael, Scott, and Jake, have a natural ability to weave in and out of conversations like you would with friends. This creates a loose and comfortable atmosphere while still delivering informative content. Whether you're an enthusiast with a collection of bottles or someone just starting to explore the world of bourbon, this podcast welcomes you with open arms.
One of the best aspects of The Bourbon Lens podcast is the relatability and knowledge of the hosts. Michael, Scott, and Jake are not only knowledgeable about bourbon but also all things whiskey-related. They have a way of making whiskey approachable for beginners while still being highly entertaining for experienced whiskey drinkers. Their expertise shines through as they discuss different labels and offer insights into the industry. It's evident that they are passionate about their subject matter.
While it's challenging to find any major flaws in this podcast, one potential drawback could be its occasional tangents during conversations. However, these tangents are what contribute to the laid-back vibe of the show. So while some listeners may prefer a more focused discussion on bourbon exclusively, others will appreciate the organic flow of conversation that mimics interactions among friends.
In conclusion, The Bourbon Lens podcast is an absolute must-listen for anyone interested in bourbon or whiskey in general. With their warm and comfortable conversations, knowledgeable hosts, and engaging content, it's no wonder why this podcast has become a favorite among enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to expand your knowledge or simply enjoy an entertaining show at the end of the day, The Bourbon Lens delivers on all fronts. Give it a listen - you won't be disappointed!
In this episode of Bourbon Lens, Jake sits down with Rick Franco, Co-Founder of Four Branches Bourbon, and their newly appointed Strategic Advisor, Master Distiller Gregg Snyder. The conversation explores the brand's ties to military service, its approach to bourbon, and its expanding product lineup. We dive into Four Branches' signature Founder's Blend, a complex four grain bourbon, and what sets it apart in the premium whiskey landscape. We also discuss the inspiration and details behind their latest release: The Continental, a limited-edition small batch bourbon created in honor of the 250th anniversaries of the U.S. Army, Navy, and Marine Corps. Crafted with a mash bill of 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley, The Continental is aged nine years and bottled at 102 proof. Named for the Continental Army, America's first formal military organization, this bourbon offers a flavor profile as layered as its history. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform, and if you enjoy what you hear, we'd love for you to leave us a review. We're incredibly grateful for your continued support over the past six years. A special thank you goes out to our amazing community of Patreon supporters—your support helps keep Bourbon Lens going strong! If you're enjoying the podcast, consider leaving a 5-star rating, writing a quick review, and sharing the show with a fellow bourbon enthusiast. You can follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X. Want to go a step further? Support us on Patreon for exclusive behind-the-scenes content, Bourbon Lens swag, access to our Tasting Club, and more. Have questions, feedback, or guest suggestions? Drop us a line at Info@BourbonLens.com. Explore BourbonLens.com for blog posts, the latest whiskey news, our full podcast archive, and detailed whiskey reviews. Cheers, Scott & Jake Bourbon Lens
In this episode of Bourbon Lens, Jake and Scott take the podcast on the road to Loretto, Kentucky, home of the iconic Maker's Mark Distillery. Recorded on-site, we sit down with Dr. Blake Layfield, Master Distiller, and Beth Buckner, Lead Blender, to dive deep into the storied past and exciting future of the Maker's Mark brand. Together, we explore how Maker's Mark continues to honor its traditional roots while innovating for the next generation. From the introduction of the distillery's first new mashbills in decades to the debut of Star Hill Farm Whisky, a brand new wheat whiskey, this conversation highlights a pivotal moment in the brand's evolution. We also discuss Maker's commitment to craftsmanship, sustainability at Star Hill Farm, and how the team balances heritage with creativity. Whether you're a longtime Maker's fan or just getting into wheated bourbons, this episode offers unique insights from two of the people shaping the future of one of Kentucky's most beloved distilleries. Listen now to hear how tradition meets innovation at Maker's Mark. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform, and if you enjoy what you hear, we'd love for you to leave us a review. We're incredibly grateful for your continued support over the past six years. A special thank you goes out to our amazing community of Patreon supporters—your support helps keep Bourbon Lens going strong! If you're enjoying the podcast, consider leaving a 5-star rating, writing a quick review, and sharing the show with a fellow bourbon enthusiast. You can follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X. Want to go a step further? Support us on Patreon for exclusive behind-the-scenes content, Bourbon Lens swag, access to our Tasting Club, and more. Have questions, feedback, or guest suggestions? Drop us a line at Info@BourbonLens.com. Explore BourbonLens.com for blog posts, the latest whiskey news, our full podcast archive, and detailed whiskey reviews. Cheers, Scott & Jake Bourbon Lens (Image Credit: Clay Cook)
In this episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, Jake sits down with Jason Johnstone-Yellin, co-founder of Single Cask Nation, to explore the world of independent bottling. Jason shares the story behind the brand, the art of selecting unique casks, and how Single Cask Nation builds transparency and trust with its community of whisky lovers. From Scotch to American Whiskey and beyond, Jason discusses how Single Cask Nation navigates the global spirits market, cultivates relationships with distilleries, and continues to push the boundaries of what independent bottlers can offer. Whether you're a seasoned whisky enthusiast or just discovering the world of single casks, this conversation dives deep into what makes this niche so exciting. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens
In this week's episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, Jake and Scott raise a glass to Frey Ranch Distillery as they unveil the 10th Anniversary Harvester Series. The duo dives into the history of Frey Ranch, explores the innovation behind this milestone release, and shares stories from years of collaboration and friendship with the Frey Ranch team. Listeners will get an inside look at what makes Frey Ranch's grain-to-glass approach so unique, how the Harvester Series stands out in the market, and why this Nevada-based distillery continues to be a fan favorite in the American whiskey landscape. A huge thank you to the entire team at Frey Ranch Distillery for their support and friendship over the years. Congratulations on a decade of excellence and community impact—cheers to the next 10 years! Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens
Jake travels down 1-64 to Lexington to see the new RD1 Distillery Brand Home. While there, he sits down with co-founder and National Brand Ambassador Barry Brinegar. Sit back and buckle into the latest episode of the bourbon lens. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens Visit RD1 Distillery at The Commons Following a ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 13, RD1 Distillery at The Commons is now open: Monday–Thursday: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Friday–Saturday: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Sunday: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. Located at 113 Turner Commons Way, Suite 110, Lexington, KY 40508, online reservations are recommended. The distillery also offers space for private events, accommodating up to 100 guests. Contact Events@RD1spirits.com (mailto:Events@RD1spirits.com) for bookings. Visit RD1spirits.com or follow @RD1spirits on Facebook and Instagram for more. About RD1 Spirits Based in Lexington, Kentucky, RD1 Spirits exists to explore the bourbon frontier. Lexington entrepreneurs founded the company in 2020 to help give life to the stories of Lexington's bourbon firsts, namely its first federally registered distillery, established in 1865. RD1 is paving its own path, focusing on Kentucky Straight Bourbon and its interaction with various wood finishings in the barrel. For more information on this growing brand, visit RD1spirits.com or follow @RD1spirits on Facebook and Instagram.
In this week's episode of the Bourbon Lens, Jake sits down with one of the original ultra premium bourbons: Joseph A Magnus. We are joined by CEO of Craft Co Ali Anderson and world renowned blender Nancy Fraley. You won't want to miss this episode as we unpack the history of Joseph Magnus, Murray Hill Club and the original Cigar Blend. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About Ali Anderson: Ali Anderson is the CEO of CraftCo, a diverse portfolio of innovative, premium craft spirits brands produced in Holland, MI. Prior to taking on the role in June 2024, Ali served as the National Sales Director at CraftCo since 2019 and was responsible for spearheading the commercial growth strategy and national expansion of all CraftCo's premium spirit brands from launch to maturity, including strategic initiatives to drive consumer engagement and brand equity growth and the innovation and launch of two new whiskey brands to the national stage. She also led the development of strategic agency relationships, delivering impactful execution in response to an increasingly demanding marketplace. Previously, Ali served as the General Manager and Director of Sales at Jos. A. Magnus & Co. In 2015, she was pivotal in re-establishing the historic, pre-Prohibition brand in Washington, D.C., overseeing sales and operations to grow from start-up phase to national distribution and transforming the company into the most highly awarded and widely distributed brand of the CraftCo portfolio. Ali earned her MBA from Webster University in St. Louis, her Bachelor of Science degree in Management from Ball State University and recently completed the DISCUS Executive Leadership Program at the University of Kentucky Gatton College of Business & Economics. Ali's ongoing commitment to professional development and industry engagement underscores her dedication to driving innovation and creating value in the spirits industry. About Nancy Fraley Nancy Fraley serves as the Master Blender for Jos. A. Magnus, where she provides custom blending, product formulation services, creation of maturation & warehousing programs, and sensory analysis. An icon in the world of whiskey, her contributions have led to the creation of numerous award-winning spirits for the brand, including Joseph Magnus Bourbon, Murray Hill Club Bourbon Blend and the most coveted of the Magnus expressions, Joseph Magnus Cigar Blend Bourbon. Nancy's career in the distilled spirits industry began with Germain-Robin brandy/Alambic Inc. in Ukiah, CA, one of the first craft distilleries in the U.S. From there, she went on to further study advanced blending techniques in France. In addition to her role at Jos. A. Magnus, Nancy holds a faculty position at Moonshine University in Louisville, KY and is the creator of the popular seminar, Blending and Nosing for Faults, with the American Distilling Institute. She is the creator of the first American Craft Whiskey Aroma Wheel, a sensory tool now widely used by distillers and whiskey connoisseurs alike. Nancy holds a Master's degree in World Religions with an emphasis in Tibetan Buddhism from Harvard University and a Juris doctor degree from The University of San Francisco School of Law with a focus on Maritime & Admiralty law and International Human Rights.
In this episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, Jake and Scott dive into the growing trend of tequila cask-finished American Whiskeys. The conversation highlights three standout new bottles: Angel's Envy Cellar Collection Vol. 5 Tequila Cask Finish, Blood Oath Pact 11, and Woodinville Tequila Finished Bourbon. It's the perfect podcast to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. The hosts explore how finishing bourbon in tequila barrels affects aroma, flavor, and overall complexity—bringing out vibrant citrus, vegetal agave notes, and a unique sweetness not typically found in traditional bourbon and rye. They also discuss the influence American Whiskey has had on tequila producers in return, noting an emerging trend of American whiskey barrel-aged tequilas. Whether you're a bourbon purist or a fan of innovation in whiskey, this episode offers a thoughtful tasting journey through the intersection of two iconic spirits: tequila and whiskey Featured Whiskeys: Angel's Envy Cellar Collection Vol. 5 Tequila Cask Finish Blood Oath Pact 11 Woodinville Tequila Finished Bourbon Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. Leave us a review if you're enjoying the show! Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens
In our latest episode of the Bourbon Lens, Jake travels to Bardstown to sit down with John Rempe, Master Distiller of Lux Row. During the interview the distillery was electric as their Front Row members were awaiting some of the first sips of the new Blood Oath Pact 11 release. Our conversation centered around the new bourbon finished in anejo Tequila barrels. However, there is a lot happening at the distillery as they continue to become a household name across the world. Sit back and buckle in for the latest episode of the Bourbon Lens. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About John Rempe At Lux Row Distillers, we have a passion for craft. We're a blend of different personalities bound together by a love of bourbon. When trying to describe John E. Rempe's relationship with bourbon, the word “passion” doesn't come close. John, a certified food scientist with a bachelor's degree in biology from St. Louis University and over 25 years of experience in distillation of spirits, has been at the forefront of crafting world-class bourbons in the company's award-winning portfolio. He has created brands like David Nicholson Reserve, Rebel 10-year, and the ultra-premium Blood Oath series, and has also been heavily involved in the oversight of Luxco's award-winning bourbon portfolio, which includes the Rebel Bourbon, Ezra Brooks, David Nicholson, Daviess County and Blood Oath bourbon families. He may have a favorite bourbon in the distillery's lineup, but that's a secret he'll never tell. About LuxCo Founded in St. Louis in 1958 by the Lux Family, Luxco is a leading producer, supplier, importer and bottler of beverage alcohol products. Our mission is to meet the needs and exceed the expectations of consumers, associates and business partners. Merged with MGP Ingredients, Inc. in 2021 (Nasdaq: MGPI), Luxco operates as MGP's Brands Division and manages all MGP/Luxco brands. This extensive and award-winning spirits portfolio includes well-known brands from four distilleries: Bardstown, Kentucky-based Lux Row Distillers, home of Ezra Brooks, Rebel, Blood Oath, David Nicholson and Daviess County; Lebanon, Kentucky-based Limestone Branch Distillery, maker of Yellowstone Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Minor Case Straight Rye Whiskey and Bowling & Burch Gin; Jalisco, Mexico-based Destiladora González Lux, producer of 100% agave tequilas, El Mayor, Exotico and Dos Primos; and Ross & Squibb Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, where Remus Straight Bourbon Whiskey and Rossville Union Straight Rye Whiskey are produced. The innovative and high-quality brand portfolio also includes Penelope Bourbon, Everclear Grain Alcohol, Pearl Vodka, Saint Brendan's Irish Cream, The Quiet Man Irish Whiskey, Green Hat Gin and other well-recognized brands. For more information about the company and its brands, visit luxco.com. About Rebel Bourbon: Distilled in Bardstown, Kentucky, by Lux Row Distillers Master Distiller John Rempe, Rebel Bourbon features a wheated mash bill that is true to its original recipe dating back to 1849. Known for its smoother, sweeter flavor, highlighted by delicious caramel and vanilla flavor notes, Rebel celebrates the “Rebel spirit in all of us” – especially those who embrace freedom, defiance and a little attitude. In 2023, Rebel Bourbon 10 Year Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey was awarded a gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and a Double Platinum ASCOT award. The brand's Rebel 100 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey was awarded gold medals at the 2023 SIP and ASCOT awards.
In this week's episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, Jake sits down one-on-one with Tripp Stimson, Chief Whiskey Scientist at Barrell Craft Spirits. This in-depth conversation takes listeners behind the scenes of one of the most innovative non-distilling producers (NDPs) in American whiskey. The Art of Blending at Barrell Craft Spirits Tripp unpacks what sets Barrell apart in a crowded whiskey market, especially its blender-first approach to crafting high-quality, small batch and single barrel releases. Listeners will get an insider's view of how Barrell sources and blends its whiskey, and how its team maintains consistency and creativity across each unique release. Addressing the Rumors Jake and Tripp also dive into some of the rumors surrounding Barrell Craft Spirits, including its long-term plans in the bourbon world. Spotlight on New Releases: Foundation and Toasted Vantage This episode also covers Barrell's exciting Double Barrel Foundation Release, a core expression of the brand's identity, as well as the Toasted Vantage Limited Release. Tripp shares how these expressions were conceptualized and what makes them special additions to the Barrell portfolio. Whether you're a whiskey nerd, collector, or new to the category, this episode offers a compelling look at one of the most respected names in American craft whiskey. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens
In this week's episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, Jake and Scott take you inside their exclusive VIP private blending experience at J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky. From hands-on barrel sampling to creating custom bourbon blends, this immersive experience is a must for any whiskey enthusiast. A special thanks goes out to Amy Preske for arranging this memorable day, and to Dakota and the entire J. Mattingly team for the warm hospitality and deep knowledge of bourbon blending. The episode also touches on the recent severe weather in Kentucky, including destructive tornadoes, historic flooding, and other storms that have deeply affected communities across the Commonwealth. If you'd like to support Kentucky disaster relief efforts, here are some trusted organizations: Team Kentucky Relief Fund American Red Cross – Kentucky Region Franklin County Emergency Management Kentucky Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (KY VOAD) Listen now as we sip our unique whiskey blends. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens
In this latest episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, Jake sits down with Julie Macklowe, the founder of The MACKLOWE, known as the first luxury American Single Malt Whiskey. During the episode, they taste both the American Single Malt and Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey releases from The MACKLOWE, discussing the unique qualities that set these spirits apart in the world of whiskey. Julie shares her insights on building a successful whiskey brand, her deep passion for high-quality spirits, and how The MACKLOWE stands out in an increasingly competitive market. They also dive into the current state of the whiskey industry and discuss trends shaping the future of premium spirits. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens Image Credit: The MACKLOWE Whiskey
In this episode of Bourbon Lens, hosts Jake and Scott sit down with Augusta Distillery's master distiller, Alex Castle. Alex shares the story of her journey to Augusta after her time at Old Dominick Distillery in Tennessee, offering a behind-the-scenes look at her transition and the innovative direction she's taking Augusta Distillery. During the conversation, we dive into Augusta's approach to sourced whiskey, their unique commitment to producing single cask and cask strength bourbons, and the philosophy that drives their craft. Alex also shares insights into their future plans as they continue to lay down large quantities of premium distillate, ensuring that every bottle meets the highest standards of quality. This episode provides an informative view on the fast-growing Augusta Distillery and the vision Alex Castle has for its future in the world of bourbon. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens
In this episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, host Jake sits down with Mason Walker and Clay Risen from Bourbon Lore®, a unique community of bourbon enthusiasts, collectors, and connoisseurs built around a shared love for the best American whiskey has to offer. Together, they discuss the history of bourbon, delving into its origins, the iconic figures behind its rise, and the enduring legacy that has made it one of America's most celebrated spirits. Tune in and discover the origin story of Bourbon Lore! If you're ultra-passionate about bourbon or want to learn more about its most legendary bottles, figures, and lore, check out all that Bourbon Lore has to offer. Listen to the full episode now! About Mason Walker: Mason Walker, a fourth generation Arizonan, has a lifelong passion for collecting and storytelling. As the son of an antique dealer and a connoisseur in the history and culture of the American Southwest, he developed a deep appreciation for heritage and craftsmanship. Over the past decade, Walker has curated one of the nation's most extensive collections of American whiskey, serving as the foundation for Bourbon Lore® A brand dedicated to celebrating the rich legacy and lore of America's spirit. About Clay Risen: Clay Risen is a founding partner of Bourbon Lore and the author of several books on American whiskey, including "American Whiskey, Bourbon and Rye: A Guide to the Nation's Favorite Spirit," "Bourbon: The Story of Kentucky Whiskey," and, most recently, "Bourbon Lore: Legends of American Whiskey." Image Credit: Bourbon Lore Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens
In this episode of the Bourbon Lens podcast, hosts Jake and Scott take a trip to the new location of Whiskey Thief Distilling Co. in the heart of NuLu, Louisville. We sit down with Walter Zausch to learn about the distillery's exciting new space and what visitors can expect when they visit either of their locations. From the one-of-a-kind experience of thieving unique whiskies directly from the barrel to the vibrant atmosphere of NuLu, this episode dives into the distinct experience Whiskey Thief offers its guests. Walter shares behind-the-scenes insights into the distillery's growth, the evolving bourbon scene in Louisville, and what makes their approach to bourbon tasting truly special. Whether you're a local or planning a trip, Whiskey Thief Distilling Co. offers a memorable experience for all bourbon lovers. Tune in for an inside look at the latest chapter in Whiskey Thief's journey! About Whiskey Thief Distilling Co.: Whiskey Thief Distilling Co. is the first and only Kentucky distillery to offer every visitor a unique, straight-from-the-barrel Bourbon tasting and thieving experience, uncut and unfiltered. Guests are invited to fill their own bottle of Kentucky Bourbon and rye whiskey straight from the barrel, at barrel strength. Distilling for over a decade on their 127-acre working farm in Franklin County, Kentucky, Whiskey Thief Distilling Co. celebrates single-barrel bourbons and whiskeys distilled from grain grown on-site. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens
In this episode of Bourbon Lens, we take a trip to the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience on Whisky Row, located in the heart of Louisville, Kentucky. We sit down with two of Heaven Hill's finest, Bernie Lubbers and Adam Edwards, to dive deep into the world of Bottled in Bond. As one of the most significant designations in the bourbon industry, Bottled in Bond holds a special place at Heaven Hill. Bernie and Adam provide invaluable insight into its history, its meaning to both bourbon enthusiasts and consumers, and why this category is still thriving in today's bourbon landscape. Tune in as we explore the legacy of Bottled in Bond, its importance to Heaven Hill, and how it continues to shape the future of bourbon. Don't miss out — listen to the full episode now! Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens
In this special episode of the Bourbon Lens podcast, Jake and Scott dive into an exciting new release from Bulleit Whiskey – their first-ever Bottled-in-Bond bourbon expression. In honor of Bottled in Bond Day (March 3), we're joined by Courtney King. Courtney is the Distillery Manager at Bulleit Distillery and she joins us to share insights on the distilling process, the importance of the Bottled-in-Bond designation, and what makes this new expression stand out. Discover the journey behind Bulleit's latest innovation, how the team crafted this whiskey to meet the stringent Bottled-in-Bond standards, and the excitement surrounding its release and the future of Bulleit. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens
In this exciting new episode of Bourbon Lens, hosts Jake and Scott sit down with Greg Keeley, the co-founder of Larrikin Bourbon Co., to dive deep into the building (and rebranding) of a bourbon company. Together, they discuss the origins of Larrikin Bourbon Co., the brand's ethos, and what makes their whiskey stand out in a crowded market. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About Larrikin Bourbon Co.: Larrikin Bourbon Co. is the true-blue embodiment of the American Dream: a craft distillery built from scratch with a fair dinkum, no-nonsense approach to making bloody good bourbon. Our founder, LCDR Greg Keeley, USN (ret), has had a wild ride. Greg's journey kicked off in a vineyard Down Under, to national security professional, and eventually landed in the extraordinary world of distilling. As a Service-Disabled Navy Combat Veteran, Greg has the unique honor of commissioned service in both the United States Navy and the Royal Australian Navy, with combat roles in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Pacific. Raised in Oz, he also served with the Australian Federal Police. At Larrikin, we're not here to spin yarns about bourbon dating back to the Pilgrims. Our focus is dead simple: what kind of Kentucky whiskey do we want in our glass? Our goal? To craft extraordinary, novel Kentucky whiskies that we're stoked to pour. We figured, why not bring a bit of Aussie cheek to America's native spirit, blending tradition with a pluck and irreverence. So here's to great bourbon, good mates, and creating something truly special. Cheers, cobber!
In this episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, hosts Jake and Scott take a closer look at some of their favorite bourbon distilleries from across the United States. Join us as we explore Wyoming Whiskey, Boulder Spirits, Holladay Distillery, and more, and dive into what makes each of these distilleries unique. Did we miss any of your favorite "non-Kentucky Bourbon" distilleries? Drop us a line and tell us which distillery we need to discover next. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens
In this episode of Bourbon Lens podcast, Jake and Scott are joined by Adam Hines, co-founder of High Bank Distillery Co., to discuss the release of their highly anticipated High Bank Small Batch Bourbon. This release marks a new chapter in the distillery's journey, bringing their very own well-aged and flavorful bourbon to market. Adam talks about the six years of waiting and crafting that went into creating this unique bourbon, highlighting its wheated mash bill. According to the distillery, High Bank Small Batch Bourbon offers a rich nose of malted chocolate and oak, followed by sweet wheat, caramel, honey, and candied nuts on the palate, finishing with leather and dried apricot. Listen in as Adam shares his passion behind this release. Don't miss this conversation about craftsmanship, community, and the future of High Bank Distillery Co. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About High Bank Distillery Co. High Bank Distillery Co. is a local Columbus distillery, founded in 2017. Operating an award-winning distillery that obsesses on the creation of high quality, handmade spirits with a focus on blended whiskey. Won Best Blended Whiskey in America in 2021, 2022 and 2023 by the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Drink Local. Drink High Bank. For more information, visit highbankdistillery.com.
In this episode of the Bourbon Lens podcast, Jake and Scott are joined by Will Woodington, the National Brand Ambassador for Chicken Cock Whiskey. Together, they dive deep into the rich history of Chicken Cock Whiskey, discuss its distinctive branding, and explore its exciting new chapter as it joins the Kentucky Bourbon Trail with their visitor experience, Circa 1856 in Bardstown. Tune in to learn more about this iconic whiskey brand, its legacy, and what makes Chicken Cock Whiskey appealing for any bourbon enthusiast. Plus, get an inside look at Circa 1856 as Chicken Cock continues to expand its presence on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens
In this episode of the Bourbon Lens podcast, hosts Jake and Scott dive deep into the highly anticipated Buffalo Trace Antique Collection 2024. Join them as they explore the flavors and complexities of these limited release whiskies, giving their thoughts and insights on each whiskey in the collection. A special thanks to the team at Sazerac for providing the opportunity to taste these rare whiskeys. Without their support, this episode wouldn't have been possible. Don't miss out—listen now for an inside look at the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection 2024! Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens
In this episode of the Bourbon Lens podcast, hosts Jake and Scott sit down to make predictions for the whiskey world in 2025. As the bourbon landscape continues to evolve, we dive into what we believe is coming down the pipe for the industry. From pricing trends to the rise of American Single Malt, and the ongoing buzz around limited release and allocated bourbons, there's a lot to unpack and we'd love to hear from you too. What are some of your bold predictions for whiskey in 2025? Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens
As we close the door on 2024 and begin 2025, Jake and Scott sit down to reflect on some of the biggest highlights from the year of Bourbon Lens. From exciting releases to emerging trends, the Bourbon Lens has seen a year full of remarkable moments, and we're breaking down the ones that stood out the most. Tune in to hear what Jake and Scott have to say about the highlights of 2024 Bourbon Lens! Listen to the Episode Now! Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens
We're excited to bring you a new episode of the Bourbon Lens podcast featuring Joyce Nethery, founder and Master Distiller of Jeptha Creed Distillery. In this episode, Joyce takes us behind the scenes of their innovative distillery, sharing the story of how Jeptha Creed was founded, their commitment to using heirloom grains, and what the future holds for the brand. Jeptha Creed has always stood out for its dedication to sustainability and craftsmanship. Joyce discusses their dedication to leveraging heirloom grains, creating distinctive bourbons with a unique flavor profile. Their careful approach to grain selection has helped set them apart in the crowded world of craft bourbon. We also get an exciting sneak peek into Jeptha Creed's latest project — Papaw's Ridge Bourbon. Listen to this episode for all the details on this exciting new release. This conversation is filled with insights into the future of bourbon, the importance of preserving heirloom grains, and the role innovation plays in crafting exceptional whiskey. Whether you're a seasoned bourbon lover or just starting to explore the world of whiskey, you won't want to miss this episode. Listen now on all major podcast platforms! Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens
In this new episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, we're honored to be joined by Owen Martin, the Master Distiller at Angel's Envy. Known for crafting some of the most unique and beloved finished whiskey expressions in the bourbon world, Angel's Envy has set itself apart with its finishing techniques and commitment to quality. Owen shares his journey in the spirits industry, what it takes to craft a perfect bottle of Angel's Envy, and the artistry he looks to leverage as Angel's Envy enters into its next chapter of whiskey-making. Tune in now for a deep dive into the world of Angel's Envy, bourbon craftsmanship, and the mind of a Master Distiller. Links Mentioned: Angel's Envy Website Follow Angel's Envy on Instagram Follow Owen Martin on Instagram Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens
In this new episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, we welcome Racheal Vaughan Jones, Marketing Director at Compass Box Whisky. Racheal shares her journey from working with global drinks brands like Ballantine's Scotch Whisky to helping shape the direction of Compass Box, one of the most innovative independent Scotch whisky makers in the world. As the driving force behind Compass Box's recent initiatives, including the launch of their new Core Collection and the Long Live Interesting campaign, Racheal provides an inside look at what makes this brand stand out in the crowded world of Scotch. We dive deep into the art of blending, the importance of storytelling in whiskey marketing, and the unique whiskies that Compass Box is known for. Learn more about Compass Box on their website: compassboxwhisky.com Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens
In this exciting new episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, we're joined by actor Gabriel Macht! Known for his iconic role as Harvey Specter on the hit TV show Suits, Gabriel opens up about his latest venture into the world of whiskey as an investor and partner in Bear Fight Whiskey. During this conversation, Gabriel dives deep into his love for fine spirits, the entrepreneurial side of the whiskey industry, and how he found a perfect match with Bear Fight Whiskey. He also reflects on his career in Hollywood, the lasting impact of Suits, and what it's like to balance acting with his passion for life and whiskey. What You'll Hear in This Episode: Gabriel Macht's Journey to Bear Fight Whiskey: Learn about how Gabriel became involved in this unique whiskey brand and his vision for its growth. Inside Look at Suits: Behind-the-scenes stories from the making of Suits and Gabriel's experience playing Harvey Specter. Whiskey Talk: Why Gabriel's passion for whiskey goes beyond just drinking—it's about community, craftsmanship, and creating something special. Acting & Entrepreneurship: How Gabriel balances his acting career with his business ventures and what it means to be a creative entrepreneur. Episode Links: Bear Fight American Single Malt Review Bear Fight Kentucky Reserve Gabriel Macht x Bear Fight News Bear Fight Whiskey Website Gabriel Macht Instagram Watch Suits on Netflix Tune in now to this fascinating conversation where we discuss everything from whiskey to Hollywood, entrepreneurship, and the stories that shape both industries. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens
In this episode of the Bourbon Lens podcast, we're joined by Wes Henderson, the co-founder of Angel's Envy, as he talks about his exciting new brand, True Story. Wes takes us on a journey through the creation of this new venture, offering insights into the inspiration behind the brand and what sets True Story apart in the world of whiskey. We also dive into two new whiskies from the True Story lineup: Wes shares how True Story marks a new chapter in the Henderson family's distilling history, reflecting both his personal journey and the family's commitment to crafting exceptional spirits. Tune in as we discuss the challenges, triumphs, and future of this exciting new brand in the competitive world of whiskey. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About True Story True Story is a premium whiskey company founded by Wes Henderson, a Bourbon Hall of Fame inductee with a profound family legacy in the American spirits industry. Crafted by Saga Spirits Group, True Story combines timeless tradition with modern innovation to create sophisticated and distinctive whiskeys. Each bottle tells a unique story, inviting drinkers to "pull up a chair" and connect over a shared experience. True Story's portfolio includes True Story Finished Bourbon and True Story Finished Rye, both finished in unique casks for a complex and flavorful profile. For more information, go to TrueStoryWhiskey.com or follow True Story on Instagram. About Saga Spirits Group Saga Spirits Group is a US-based spirits company founded in 2023 by industry veteran Wes Henderson, founder of the acclaimed ANGEL'S ENVY. The company is dedicated to crafting exceptional American whiskey products and creating a comprehensive visitor experience. Its flagship project, a new distillery and tourism complex in Versailles, KY, is set to be a significant economic driver in the region. With a focus on quality, innovation, and community engagement, Saga Spirits is poised to impact Kentucky's whiskey industry significantly.
In the newest episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, we sit down with Dominic Guglielmi, a Blanton's Bourbon super fan and author of the new book Warehouse H: The Story of Blanton's Bourbon, America's Most Influential Whiskey. We dive deep into the history of Blanton's, its role in shaping the modern bourbon landscape, and the stories from Warehouse H at Buffalo Trace Distillery. Whether you're a die-hard bourbon aficionado or a casual fan, this episode is a must-listen! Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens Episode Highlights: Blanton's Bourbon History: Learn about the origins of Blanton's Bourbon, the first single-barrel bourbon ever released, and its journey from its inception at Buffalo Trace to becoming one of the most sought-after and influential whiskeys in the world. We also explore how Blanton's played a key role in bringing the craft of bourbon back into the spotlight during the 1980s. Warehouse H and the Story Behind the Book: Dominic Guglielmi takes us on a tour of Warehouse H, the historic building at Buffalo Trace that has been central to Blanton's unique flavor profile. His book, *Warehouse H: The Story of Blanton's Bourbon, America's Most Influential Whiskey*, tells the incredible story of how the conditions in this special warehouse contribute to the distinct taste that fans worldwide love. Behind the Scenes at Buffalo Trace Distillery: Dominic shares rare insights into what makes Warehouse H so special and how Blanton's Bourbon has evolved over the years. From its close relationship with master distillers to the meticulous aging process, you'll gain a deeper understanding of why Blanton's is a beloved favorite. Perfect Holiday Gift Idea: Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the bourbon lover in your life? Dominic's book, Warehouse H, is available now for purchase at BlantonsBook.com and WarehouseH.com. It's the perfect gift for any fan of bourbon or whiskey enthusiast who appreciates the craft and history behind the spirit. Listen Now on Your Favorite Podcast Player: Don't miss this episode! Tune in to the Bourbon Lens Podcast wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts, or check out the full episode on our website. For the perfect holiday gift, grab your copy of Warehouse H: The Story of Blanton's Bourbon from [BlantonsBook.com and WarehouseH.com today. About WAREHOUSE H: The Story of Blanton's Bourbon, America's Most Influential Whiskey The popularity of bourbon whiskey in America is at an all-time high. Over the past decade it has seen exponential growth and popularity. Legions of new fans are drawn to the spirit every year. What accounts for this growth? It can be traced—at least in part—to the 1984 introduction of Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey. Bourbon, a specific type of whiskey, is a distinctive product of the United States. Legally it can only be produced in America. During its previous heyday in the 1950s through 1960s it was the most popular distilled spirit in America. As the 1970s ushered in, the market collapsed, and bourbon sales plummeted as consumers turned to “lighter and whiter” spirits such as vodka and gin. Throughout the next 30 years the industry struggled, and distilleries were shuttered. Nobody wanted bourbon. The introduction of Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey in 1984 was historic. As the first single-barrel bourbon, it is bottled one barrel at a time as opposed to first mixing together multiple barrels. It helped define a new “super-premium” category for bourbon, where only the choicest barrels are selected and bottled. One author called the creation of Blanton's "the whiskey equivalent of a Hail Mary pass." Together with other super-premium brands launched in the years following Blanton's debut, they sowed the seeds of a 21st-century bourbon boom that saved the American whiskey industry from near collapse. Dominic Guglielmi is widely considered one of the most prolific and knowledgeable collectors of Blanton's bourbon. He has amassed a nearly unrivaled collection of known Blanton's releases, including nearly all extremely rare and limited bottles that have been produced. He has worked to document the brand's history through his website www.warehouseh.com. Warehouse H is Guglielmi's homage to Blanton's, capturing the story of the brand as it has never been told before, and chronicling all things Blanton's from its birth to the present day.
In this episode of the Bourbon Lens podcast, Jake sits down with Kaveh Zamanian, the founder and former CEO of Rabbit Hole Distillery, to discuss his journey in the whiskey world, the evolution of Rabbit Hole, and his new role within the spirits industry. Kaveh and Jake also talk about the new Founder's Collection – 8-Year-Old Boxergrail Rye Whiskey from Rabbit Hole. We also dive deep into Kaveh's exciting new chapter at Pernod Ricard as he transitions into his role as Chief Operating Officer and Head of North American Distillers. This role brings a significant opportunity to impact the direction of several iconic whiskey brands across the U.S., and Kaveh reveals how his experience in both entrepreneurship and leadership will shape the future of the company's strategy. Throughout the conversation, Kaveh reflects on the ever-changing whiskey landscape, the importance of sustainability, and the role of craftsmanship in modern distilling. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens Kaveh Zamanian Bio: Kaveh Zamanian is a pioneer in the modern American whiskey scene, best known for founding Rabbit Hole Distillery in 2012. With a background in neuroscience and an innate passion for craft spirits, Kaveh set out to revolutionize Kentucky bourbon with a focus on innovation and premium craftsmanship. Under his leadership, Rabbit Hole became a renowned name in the industry, creating high-quality, unique expressions that pushed the boundaries of what bourbon and whiskey could be. Before founding Rabbit Hole, Kaveh's career took him through diverse fields, including working as a clinical psychologist and as an executive in the tech industry. His eclectic background played a significant role in shaping his approach to both business and whiskey-making. In late 2023, Kaveh took on a new challenge, transitioning to Pernod Ricard as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Head of North American Distillers. This new role sees Kaveh leading the operations and strategic direction for a portfolio of renowned distilleries and brands across North America, including some of the most iconic names in whiskey. His extensive experience in both entrepreneurship and executive leadership in the spirits industry makes him well-positioned to further elevate the business. About Rabbit Hole Distillery: Rabbit Hole was born to blow the cobwebs off the American whiskey category and pierce through the conformity that had kept it stuck in the 19th century. Rabbit Hole's Founder and Whiskey Maker, Kaveh Zamanian, left a 20+ year career as a clinical psychologist to pursue his long-standing passion for fine spirits. With a mission to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, he set course to develop one-of-a-kind expressions of American whiskey. Through its signature core offerings – Cavehill Four Grain Triple Malt Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Boxergrail Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, Dareringer Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in PX Sherry Casks, and Heigold High Rye Double Malt Kentucky Straight Bourbon – along with its innovative Founder's Collection series, stands as the best example of innovation and craft distillation in the country. This distinction is highlighted by its use of truly singular mash bills, signature malted grains, and custom-made, hand-selected, toasted & charred barrels. The state-of-the-art distillery is a cathedral to the art and science of whiskey making and is located in the Nulu neighborhood in heart of downtown Louisville. Designed as a true craft distillery designed to scale, it produces 27,000 barrels every year. Since opening in 2018, it has been heralded as the "Architectural Icon" of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and was recently named "World's Leading Bourbon Distillery Tour" by the World Travel Awards. In 2022, Kaveh was inducted into the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame's 20th anniversary class, cementing his place among industry pioneers and visionaries. For more information, visit rabbitholedistillery.com.
In this episode of the Bourbon Lens podcast, we dive deep into the world of Benromach, one of Scotland's most celebrated distilleries. We're joined by Keith Cruickshank, Distillery Manager at Benromach, who walks us through the rich history and what make their subtly smoky Speyside whiskies stand out. We're honored to taste through their impressive portfolio, including their rare and limited-release 50-Year-Old Scotch, a truly exceptional and costly expression that showcases the artistry and dedication behind Benromach's craft. Keith shares insights into the distillery's commitment to traditional production methods, the importance of maturation, and how Benromach balances innovation with heritage. This episode offers a rare opportunity to experience and learn about one of the most exclusive whiskies available today. Whisky Tasting Notes: We taste through Benromach's range, exploring expressions like the 10-Year-Old, 15-Year-Old, and the highly sought-after 50-Year-Old. Keith offers expert commentary on each, highlighting the unique characteristics of their single malts and the stories behind their creation. In this episode, we discuss: - The history and philosophy of Benromach Distillery - The making of Benromach's unique, slightly peated whiskies - What makes their 50-Year-Old Scotch such a rare and expensive release - The significance of traditional methods in crafting exceptional Scotch - Insights into future releases and the distillery's plans This conversation is a must-listen for whisky enthusiasts, collectors, and anyone curious about what goes into making some of the world's finest Scotch whiskies. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens
In this episode of Bourbon Lens, hosts Jake and Scott sit down with Fawn Weaver, the trailblazing founder of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey. Fawn takes us on a journey through her remarkable story—how she discovered the legacy of Nathan “Nearest” Green, the first African-American master distiller, and how she turned that discovery into the globally recognized whiskey brand, Uncle Nearest. Fawn also shares insights into her newly released book, Love & Whiskey: The Remarkable True Story of Jack Daniel, His Master Distiller Nearest Green, and the Improbable Rise of Uncle Nearest, which honors Nathan Green's contributions to the craft and spirit of whiskey. We dive deep into how the book came to be, the challenges of uncovering hidden history, and the importance of celebrating the unsung heroes of the bourbon industry. On top of the conversation, we're excited to announce a special giveaway of one copy of Fawn's book, Love & Whiskey! Head over to our Instagram page for a chance to win a copy of Fawn's new book and dive deeper into the story of Nearest Green. Tune in for an inspiring, insightful, and thought-provoking episode as we celebrate history, bourbon, and the power of storytelling with Fawn Weaver. Episode Highlights: - The journey that led Fawn to create Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey - The story behind discovering Nathan Green's legacy and his impact on the American Whiskey industry - The inspiration and process behind Fawn's new book, Love & Whiskey. - The significance of honoring Nearest Green and his role in shaping whiskey - Don't forget to head to Instagram to enter our giveaway for a copy of Fawn's new book. Follow Us: - Instagram: @BourbonLens - Twitter: @BourbonLens - Website: http://www.bourbonlens.com Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts!
This week, we're talking about Barton 1792 Distillery and 1792 Bourbon. Master Distiller Ross Cornelissen joins Bourbon Lens to talk about the workhouse bourbon distillery. Barton 1792 is a historic distillery in the Bourbon Capital of the World and owned by Sazerac Company. We discuss three limited releases from Barton 1792, including Sweet Wheat, Aged Twelve Years, and Thomas S. Moore Port Cask Finished Bourbon. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About Barton 1792 Distillery: Barton 1792 Distillery was established in 1879 and continues today as the oldest fullyoperating distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. Situated in heart of bourbon country on 196 acres, Barton 1792 Distillery boasts 29 barrelaging warehouses, 22 other buildings including an impressive still house, and the legendary Tom Moore Spring. About Sazerac: With over 400 years of history, Sazerac is one of the world's largest distilled spirits companies. Now in the fourth generation of the current family ownership, Sazerac strives each day to bring the finest spirits to consumers and communities around the world. Over 500 of the world's most extraordinary brands are part of the Sazerac portfolio, including 1792 Bourbon, Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Eagle Rare, Weller, The Last Drop Distillers, Fireball Cinnamon Whisky, Southern Comfort, Wheatley Vodka, Meyers's Rum, White X Cognac, Sazerac de Forge Cognac, Paddy's Irish Whiskey, and many more. Sazerac is also the steward of many fine distilleries internationally, including Barton 1792 and Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky, United States; Domaine Sazerac de Segonzac in Cognac, France; Paul John Distillery in Goa, India; and Lough Gill Distillery in County Sligo, Ireland. Additional impressive locations can be found in New Orleans, Montréal, London, Cork and Sydney, to name a few. To learn more visit 1792bourbon.com or sazerac.com.
We're joined by multi-Platinum country music artist, Dierks Bentley, in this special episode of Bourbon Lens. Dierks recently wrapped up his Gravel & Gold Tour and is firmly planted back in Nashville preparing for his next album. We had the privilege to sit down with Dierks to talk about his newest project, Row 94 Whiskey. Row 94 is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey distilled at the historic Green River Distilling Company. Dierks aims for Row 94 to be the bourbon you reach for when you're enjoying a night with friends, listening to live music, or pouring a whiskey neat to celebrate. Flexible enough for a red solo cup or your nicest whiskey glassware, Row 94 isn't going to break the bank at its $40 price point either. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode of Bourbon Lens featuring Dierks Bentley. And don't miss our GIVEAWAY in partnership with ROW 94 and Dierks Bentley!!! GIVEAWAY DETAILS: We are excited to be giving away an autographed Dierks Bentley acoustic guitar with launch of our podcast featuring ROW 94 Whiskey. If you are interested in winning this authentic guitar, you must: Follow both @BourbonLens and @Row94Whiskey on Instagram. Comment on the Instagram post announcing the podcast launch for 1 entry. Share to your stories for 1 entry. Follow Bourbon Lens on your favorite podcast platform and send a screen shot for 1 entry Subscribe to the Bourbon Lens YouTube Channel for 1 entry Winner will be selected on Instagram live at 9pm ET Sunday November 3rd! Best of luck! Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About ROW 94 Whiskey Named after the year Bentley moved to Nashville and Music Row, ROW 94 celebrates his personal journey. The whiskey's logo features a thunderbird, symbolizing strength, freedom, and Bentley's dedication to hard work and authenticity—values reflected in every bottle. About Dierks Bentley Dierks Bentley has been a staple of country music for over 20 years, known for blending country with bluegrass. Beginning with his debut single and instant-classic hit “What Was I Thinkin'” in 2003, Bentley's unique sonic influence and warm vocal rasp have paved the way for the perennial hitmaker, known first and foremost for creative integrity. His career has produced eight Number One albums, 22 No. One songs, eight billion global streams and three CMA Awards – plus 15 GRAMMY® nominations and membership in the historic Grand Ole Opry. In addition to music, Bentley is an entrepreneur, with ventures like the Desert Sun Apparel collection. For more information on Dierks Bentley and ROW 94, visit dierks.com.
On a recent trip to Myrtle Beach we crossed paths with Jason Queen as he was working to promote his bourbon in South Carolina. Jason shared a bit of history with us and a whiskey too. That chance meeting and conversation inspired this latest episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast. Jason, a serial entrepreneur and conservationist purchased Cook's Mill, an old grist mill in order to restore this once thriving mill. That goal set him on a path to creating a whiskey that is focused paying homage to North Carolina's past. Sit back and buckle in for the latest episode of the Bourbon Lens. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About Jason Queen & The Brand Cook's Mill Whiskey owner and founder Jason Queen is also the owner and broker at Monarch Realty in Raleigh, NC. Given his profession, Jason has an inherent interest in historic preservation, which he shares with his wife, Jeanne. For their 10th anniversary, Jason purchased Cook's Mill, an abandoned grist mill that acted as a community gathering place particularly during the Regulator Movement in the 1770s, from Preservation North Carolina so they could restore and preserve it together. While assessing the disrepair and the efforts needed to salvage and revitalize the mill, sacks of heirloom grain were discovered in the mill and inspected by the Agriculture Department of NC State. From there, the idea to reintroduce these heirloom grains to farmlands through whiskey production was born to celebrate the rural heritage of the mill and North Carolina. The Story Behind Cook's Mill Whiskey Cook's Mill Whiskey originated after founder Jason Queen, who is also the owner and broker at Monarch Realty in Raleigh, NC, purchased an abandoned 1700s grist mill from Preservation North Carolina, which is located halfway between where he and his wife grew up, as a 10-year anniversary gift for his wife. Both having an inherent interest in historic preservation, the idea was to restore and preserve the piece of history together. Inspired by other craft brands and his background in restaurants and hospitality, Queen decided to create a bourbon whiskey made from corn grown, harvested, distilled and bottled in the state - with a portion of the proceeds going back to the cost of restoring the mill. The brand is named for that pre-Revolutionary Alamance County grist mill, which is one of only two remaining grist mills of the original 41 in Mebane County. Inspired by the proud tradition of farming and distillation in North Carolina, Cook's Mill officially released in October 20202 after years of being kept a secret. A straight bourbon whiskey aged in new white-oak charred barrels, Cook's Mill's first iteration blends supreme flavor as a 3-year-old bourbon made with NC native corn and a dose of history. Across the state, the team worked on farming myriad non-GMO heirloom corns native to NC to yield ideal bourbon whiskey flavor profiles. To do so, Queen and his team partnered with experts at NC State who have dedicated their careers to native NC heirloom corns. The team isolated seven heirloom corns housed in a university vault in small amounts and offered them to Queen and his team for them to grow. “These are real true heirloom seeds, original genetic varieties of these corns, that we have unique ownership of,” says Queen, “and there are only like a handful of some of these corns. They've never been commoditized—you can't get them out of a catalog.” In fact, he explains, they were probably used by the pre-Prohibition NC moonshiners and distillers—and allowed to go out of production because of the dense GMO corns that are so much easier to grow.
We are celebrating a BIG milestone this week as we release the 300th Episode of Bourbon Lens. Old Forester and Brown-Forman were gracious enough to invite Jake and Scott to Whiskey Row to celebrate. Bourbon Lens is joined by Melissa Rift and Caleb Trigo from Old Forester to discuss the historic brand, its legacy and future, and to toast our milestone with the 2024 Edition of Birthday Bourbon. We couldn't think of a better choice for celebrating this milestone episode and thank the team at Brown-Forman and Old Forester for their support all these years. As we celebrate this milestone, we also want to thank all of our listeners over the past 6 years, our Patreon supporters, and each of the brands that have helped make Bourbon Lens a success. Cheers to you and the next 300 Episodes! Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens For more details on Melissa Rift and Caleb Trigo and the critical roles they play at Old Forester, check out these posts at BourbonLens.com: Old Forester Master Taster Melissa Rift Caleb Trigo Named Assistant Master Distiller Old Forester 2024 Birthday Bourbon
It's the question that every whiskey enthusiast has been asked: What's the one bottle of whiskey you keep on your bar? Since one bottle clearly wouldn't make a great podcast, we decided to up the ante a bit and decided to build the Ultimate 5 Bottle American Whiskey Bar. Jake and Scott run through how they would build their whiskey bar if only afforded 5 slots. We've given ourselves criteria in hopes of finding a bottle for every niche and occasion. We run through our choices for 1) best everyday whiskey, 2) best cocktail whiskey, 3) high proof whiskey, 4) Top Shelf whiskey, and 5) a “wild card” whiskey of our choice to round out the bar. What do we pick? Tune in to find out. And be sure to reach out to us on social media and share your #5BottleWhiskeyBar. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 5 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our growing Patreon Community of supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to read our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens
It's been a wild season of new whiskey and bourbon releases and we're catching up on some of the ones you may have missed. The press releases have been coming in fast and furious of late and Bourbon Lens is doing our best to keep you abreast of all the news. We recap some of the most exciting releases from the heritage Kentucky distilleries, the best distilleries both inside and outside of Kentucky, and even some celebrity brands that have the whiskey world talking. As always, be sure you're following along at BourbonLens.com for all the latest news and notes of the whiskey world. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 5 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our growing Patreon Community of supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to read our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens Artwork Generated by Artificial Intelligence
Scott and Jake sit down to debrief after a long weekend at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival. We discuss some of our favorite pours and experiences from yet another memorable Festival. We must give a shoutout to our AirBnB housemates who joined us to celebrate and to all our listeners who introduced themselves over the weekend. We wrap up this recap episode with some tips to consider as you plan your trip to the 2025 Kentucky Bourbon Festival on September 5 - 7, 2025. Thank you to the Kentucky Bourbon Festival, its board and staff, and Estes PR for inviting us to the Festival to cover the events and festivities of the weekend. Image Credit: BourbonBlog.com's Tom Fischer Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 5 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our growing Patreon Community of supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to read our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens
Scott and Jake travel to Newport Kentucky to visit New Riff Distilling and sit down with co-founder Jay Erisman. We kick back inside the Aquifer Bar to discuss New Riff's history, their whiskey portfolio, and what's ahead now that the distillery recently celebrated its 10th anniversary. In this episode, we taste New Riff Bottled in Bond Bourbon, Silver Grove Bourbon, Malted Rye, and their 8 Year Bourbon. Stay tuned to Bourbon Lens for more coverage of New Riff coming soon, including their second batch of Kentucky Single Malt and their Whisky NRD tasting courses currently scheduled at the distillery. About New Riff: Fiercely independent and unabashedly innovative: New Riff Distilling starts with time-honored sour mash methods and bottled-in-bond standards, creating new riffs on old traditions since 2014. Located in Northern Kentucky — the gateway to bourbon country — the independently-owned distillery produces award-winning bourbon, rye, single malt whiskey and gin. Bourbon and rye are also available in single barrel selections, and the distillery boasts a popular private barrel selection program offering quarter, half and full barrel picks complete with personalized labels. New Riff sources its water from an alluvial aquifer under the distillery, accessed via a 100' deep private well and providing cold, clean and mineral-rich water perfect for whiskey making. The public-facing spaces in the distillery, renovated in 2023, include the Riff Shop with customizable gifting options and locally sourced artisan goods; and The Aquifer Tasting Room, located on the third floor of the distillery, featuring signature cocktails, flights, and pours of New Riff's entire portfolio of award-winning spirits including rare, limited-edition, and distillery-exclusive releases. About Jay Erisman: Jay Erisman is vice-president of strategic development and co-founder of New Riff Distilling. A home brewer who became a fine spirits expert and then a self-taught distiller, Erisman is nicknamed New Riff's “chief blender and palate.” He focuses on grains and raw ingredients, cooperage, aging strategies, product development and regulatory compliance. An expert in pot still distillation, Erisman also spearheads the distillery's gins. Previously, Erisman served as fine spirits manager at The Party Source.
We continue our coverage for Bourbon Heritage Month as we explore Four Roses Bourbon, including their new Limited Edition Small Batch release for 2024. We are joined by Brent Elliott, Master Distiller for Four Roses Bourbon Distillery. We discuss Brent's process for crafting this limited edition bourbon, the 10 different recipes of Four Roses Bourbon, the distillery's commitment to quality and tradition, and the recent announcement of an expansion of the Four Roses Bourbon recipe lineup. What is your favorite Four Roses recipe or release? About Four Roses: Established in 1888, Four Roses combines two mashbills with five proprietary yeast strains to distill and age 10 distinct bourbon recipes, each with its own unique flavor profile. With distilling and warehousing operations in Lawrenceburg and Cox's Creek, Kentucky, respectively, Four Roses is available in all 50 states. This past year, Four Roses has received 54 awards, including 2 Double Platinum medals, 3 Platinum medals, 9 Double Gold medals and 22 Gold medals from esteemed competitions such as the American Whiskey Masters and Whiskies of the World. About Brent Elliott, Master Distiller for Four Roses Bourbon Distillery: Brent Elliott became Master Distiller at Four Roses in September 2015 and has been involved in producing award-winning premium Bourbons since he began working with the company in 2005. As Master Distiller, Elliott ensures that each bottle of Four Roses is handcrafted with the same passion and quality that the brand has maintained since 1888. Elliott's years of experience with Four Roses include everything from applying his Chemistry degree in production, to formulating Four Roses' 10 distinct Bourbon recipes and hand-selecting barrels for award-winning bottlings that the brand has become known for around the world. Elliott also frequently travels on behalf of the brand, sharing his deep industry and brand knowledge through tastings, seminars, training sessions and events. Named Master Distiller/Blender of the Year at the 2020 Icons of Whisky America award ceremony, Elliott is particularly proud of Small Batch Select, the distillery's newest permanent product-line extension since 2006, and the biggest addition to the storied history of the 132-year-old brand since he became Master Distiller. Since its release, Small Batch Select was ranked No. 3 in Whisky Advocate's Top 20 Whiskies of 2019 – the highest-rated Bourbon on the list – and also earned Category Silver for Kentucky Bourbon at the 2020 World Whiskies Awards. A native of Owensboro, Kentucky, Elliott resides in Frankfort Kentucky with his wife, Amy, and their two children.
We're kicking off National Bourbon Heritage Month with one of the legendary distilleries of Kentucky Bourbon. We've traveled to James B. Beam Distilling Co. to chat about the Homeplace, located in Clermont, Kentucky and their 90th year at that location. Alex Bowie, Director of Homeplace Experience at James B. Beam Distilling Co. sits down with Jake and Scott inside the Historic Beam House. We discuss how Beam has evolved its Homeplace over the last 90 years, the importance of adapting to the evolving bourbon tourist, and some of the innovations coming from this historic distillery. After listening to this week's episode, you need to head to BeamDistilling.com to plan your trip to Clermont and book your experiences to immerse yourself in the James B. Beam Distilling Co. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 5 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our growing Patreon Community of supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to read our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About The James B. Beam Distilling Co. Founded by America's first family of bourbon, the James B. Beam Distilling Co. has crafted genuine American Whiskey since 1795. Its portfolio includes globally coveted and award-winning whiskey brands including Jim Beam®, Basil Hayden®, Knob Creek®, Booker's®, Baker's®, Little Book®, Legent®, Old Tub®, Old Overholt®, Old Crow®, and Old Grand-Dad®. Maintaining the whiskey traditions of eight generations of family distillers while advancing the category through innovation, the Beam family has defined what American Whiskey could be and should be for more than 225 years. The James B. Beam Distilling Co. crafts American Whiskey with genuine, quality ingredients that are distilled and aged without compromise at its family distilleries in Clermont, Kentucky. Head over to beamdistilling.com. While there, you'll find more information about The James B. Beam Distilling Co. and to purchase tickets to any of their experiences. While tours are limited to guests age 21+, guests of any age can visit the grounds and The Kitchen Table restaurant. The James B. Beam Distilling Co. is an ideal location and venue for weddings, corporate travel and meetings, family gatherings, bachelor(ette) parties, birthdays and more. Image Credit: LOVE & Luke Hayes
We travel to The Last Refuge in Louisville's NuLu neighborhood to visit the future brand home of Heaven's Door Whiskey. We are joined by Adam Edwards, National Brand Ambassador, to discuss the inspiration behind the brand, Bob Dylan's art and music, and their portfolio of whiskeys. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 5 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our growing Patreon Community of supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to read our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About Heaven's Door: Heaven's Door is a collection of handcrafted American Whiskeys co-created with Bob Dylan. The perfect blend of art and craft, a collection of stories to be savored and shared. Each bottle of Heaven's Door showcases Dylan's distinctive welded iron gates he created in his studio, Black Buffalo Ironworks. To learn more about our whiskey, visit heavensdoor.com About Adam Edwards Adam Edwards, with two decades of experience in the spirits industry, possesses extensive knowledge of the history and depth of fine wines and whiskeys. Originally from the heart of Kentucky in Louisville, Adam's roots run deep, fueling his passionate mission to enlighten enthusiasts nationwide about the rich heritage of Bourbon Whiskey. As a distinguished Certified Executive Bourbon Stewart and holder of the Spirits WSET II – With Distinction Certificate, Adam is active in the Bourbon community, conducting educational panels and training sessions for trade, consumers, and media alike. When not participating in Bourbon culture, Adam can be found hiking in the woods with his wife and daughter, running with his two dogs Saz and Boo, or playing the tuba in a New Orleans-style brass group. Articles: Heaven's Door Distillery - Bourbon Lens Bob Dylan's Heaven's Door bourbon brand center to open in Louisville Heaven's Door | Award-Winning Bourbon Whiskey & Distillery The Collection | Heaven's Door Whiskey Inside Heaven's Door's New Distillery and Visitor's Center Image Credit: Heaven's Door
Bourbon Lens is joined by Raj Alva, Co-Founder of Outsiders Spirits, and Ari Sussman, renowed whiskey-maker, to discuss their project Whiskey JYPSI. We discuss the origin story of the brand, including co-founder Eric Church, how his music inspires the direction of the brand, and what's in store for their future. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 5 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our growing Patreon Community of supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to read our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About Outsiders Spirits Outsiders Spirits, LLC was founded in 2020 by CMA Entertainer of the Year and 10-time GRAMMY nominee Eric Church and entrepreneur Raj Alva as a purpose-driven incubator for whiskey innovation. The company officially launched its first whiskey release, Whiskey JYPSI Legacy Batch 001, in May 2023. It has since won multiple national and international awards, including the coveted Double Gold Medal from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and superlative ratings from the NY International Spirits Competition, the PR%F Awards and the Beverage Testing Institute. In April of this year, their all-new Explorer Series was released and has since won Gold in the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. For more information, visit WhiskeyJYPSI.com and follow @WhiskeyJYPSI on Facebook, Instagram, and X. About Eric Church A seven-time ACM Award winner, four-time CMA Award winner (including the 2020 award for Entertainer of the Year) and 10-time GRAMMY nominee, Church has amassed a passionate fan base around the globe known as the Church Choir, plus a critically acclaimed catalog of music. Known for his tenacity on the road, his recent The Outsiders Revival Tour earned rave reviews as he brought a rotating lineup of emerging artists along for the first fully-outdoor tour of his career. His prior outing, the 55-city The Gather Again Tour, offered fans an in-the-round arena show and earned the 2022 Billboard Music Award for Top Country Tour. Church is currently working on new music as the follow up to his most recent chart-topping project, the Heart & Soul triple album, which featured the results of a marathon session during which he spent nearly a month writing and recording a song per day while sequestered in rural North Carolina. This followed his Gold-certified Desperate Man, which earned a GRAMMY nomination for Best Country Album (his third nod in the category) and prior releases including the Platinum-certified Sinners Like Me (“How 'Bout You,” “Guys Like Me”), Carolina (“Smoke a Little Smoke,” “Love Your Love the Most”) and Mr. Misunderstood (“Record Year,” “Round Here Buzz”), the Double-Platinum certified The Outsiders (“Like a Wrecking Ball,” “Talladega”) and the 3x Platinum-certified Chief(“Springsteen,” “Drink In My Hand”), as well as 30 Gold, Platinum and multi-Platinum certified songs. Church is also a minority owner of the Charlotte Hornets, a co-owner of the iconic Field & Stream brand, has his own SiriusXM music channel, “Eric Church Outsiders Radio,” and recently opened Chief's, a six-story venue on Nashville's famed lower Broadway. For more information, visit EricChurch.com and follow on Facebook and Twitter @ericchurch and Instagram @ericchurchmusic.
Jake takes a deep dive into Scotland in this week's episode featuring Tamdhu Single Malt Whisky. He's joined by Gordon Dallas, Brand Development & Advocacy Director for Tamdhu, for an informative and enlightening comparative tasting of a portion of the Tamdhu portfolio of sherry cask whiskies. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 5 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our growing Patreon Community of supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to read our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About Tamdhu: Tamdhu is owned by Ian MacLeod Distillers, one of Scotland's leading independent family-owned distillers. Tamdhu is 100% matured in the finest Oloroso sherry oak casks from Spain. Tamdhu uses only the best Oloroso sherry seasoned American and European oak casks giving the award-winning single malt its natural, dark amber color, intense richness on the palate and its deep, long finish. Born on the banks of the River Spey in 1897, its quality is also defined by the wisp of peat in its malted barley and the natural Speyside water that is drawn directly from the Tamdhu spring. About Gordon Dundas, International Brand Ambassador for Ian MacLeod Distillers: Gordon has been working in the whisky industry directly for over 17 years. Although initially having been an engineer and then working in the Sport events and hospitality industry, he had always had an interest in the wonderful whisky world. Gordon started working for international title Whisky Magazine in 2003 gaining incredible insights and knowledge of the whisky industry and setting up the famous Whisky Live shows internationally in the US, Asia and Australia. In 2011, Gordon then joined Morrison Bowmore Distillers (and laterally Beam Suntory) as Global Brand Ambassador working in European, Asian and Travel Retail markets. Working on Bowmore, Auchentoshan and Glen Garioch initially then the whole Beam Suntory whisky portfolio. Gordon was honoured to be appointed a Keeper of the Quaich in 2013. In 2017, Gordon joined family owned Ian MacLeod Distillers Ltd (IMD) as International Brand Ambassador. IMD were awarded Whisky Magazine's 2018 Distiller of the Year, and are producers of the award winning Glengoyne, Tamdhu and Smokehead single malt whiskies along with Edinburgh Gin. In 2017 IMD also purchased Rosebank and are currently in the process of re-building this iconic distillery. Gordon's whisky journey is always ongoing and he loves the international travel it brings, the fabulous people around the world enjoying whisky and working with a team of talented people! Tamdhu Whiskey Portfolio Snapshot: Tamdhu 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch (SRP: $67.99) - Matured in ex-sherry casks for 12years, this drink holds aromas of cinnamon rolls, orange candy, fresh oak, raisins & traces of mint. The palate offers notes of banana, raspberry jam, malty biscuits & toasted oak, with cinnamon and dried fruit flavors that linger in finish. Tamdhu 15 Year Old Single Malt Scotch (SRP: $129.99) - Aged in Oloroso Sherry casks, this 15 year old Tamdhu has aromas of apple pie, spiced currants and orange zest. The palate is full of juicy apricots, vibrant raspberries and bitter almonds, before a long finish full of malty biscuits and creamy sherry notes. Gold Medal winner at the 2024 San Francisco International Spirits Competition Tamdhu 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch (SRP: $199.99) - The oldest expression at Tamdhu is fully matured only in Oloroso seasoned Sherry Casks. Both the richness of European Oak and the more subtle American Oak flavors combine with the fruity this very limited edition.
Jake is joined by Chris Barton, Master Blender for World Whiskey Society, to talk about the unique whiskey offerings that comprise the collection of WWS releases. Jake tastes the single barrel release of Doc Holliday 7 Year and the latest Japanese Single Malt release crafted in collaboration with Chip Tate. The WWS also has a new series that pays tribute to Wyatt Earp, their latest releases of American Single Malt Whiskeys. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 5 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our growing Patreon Community of supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to read our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About World Whiskey Society: Established in 2020, the World Whiskey Society (WWS) comprises an ultra-premium collection of rare expressions previously unavailable to even the most sophisticated whiskey enthusiasts. WWS scours the globe far and wide with a singular goal in mind – uniqueness – before selecting a distillery partner to join WWS. Or they may choose to release something completely new by finishing small-batch American bourbon in exotic oak barrels from Japan. Whether it is the Classic Collection, the Reserve Collection, the tributes to Doc Holliday, or the Diamond Collection, WWS offers whiskies for everyday enjoyment and moments of celebration. About Chris Barton, Master Blender: Chris Barton is a true renaissance man of the spirits world. A former college football player and Marine Corps veteran, Chris brings a unique blend of discipline and passion to his role as Master Blender for World Whiskey Society. He oversees all aspects of the distillery, drawing on his extensive experience in the beverage industry. From his time as a Head Bartender to his roles as a Liquor Store Manager and On-Premise Sales Rep, Chris has a deep understanding of the industry from every angle. He is a leader of the new generation of spirits professionals, dedicated to crafting exceptional whiskey and sharing his knowledge with the world. When he's not blending award-winning spirits, Chris enjoys spending time with his Wife, Son, and two beloved dogs, Weller and Whiskey. About The Doc Holliday Portfolio: Doc Holliday Straight Kentucky Bourbon Single Barrel Edition Aged 6 Years (SRP : $89): Leads with hints of tobacco leaf, green peppercorns, wet charred oak and earth on the nose. On the palate are flavors of cinnamon syrup, spiced raisins, vanilla bean and gentle oak, followed by baking spices, brown sugar, oak wood and a light rye spice finish. 57.9% ABV. Doc Holliday Straight Kentucky Bourbon Single Barrel Edition Aged 7 Years (SRP: $134): Exhibits an impressively deep nose of sweet vanilla bean, mulled spice, and subtle hints of butter. Baked vanilla pairs with explosive flavors of cinnamon-hot candies, baked pie crust, drizzled in butter, and sweet cake batter. A silky mouthfeel filled with space and the gentle underpinning of sweetness in a long and warming finish. 57.9% ABV. Doc Holliday Straight Kentucky Bourbon Single Barrel Edition Aged 10 Years (SRP: $184): Despite its higher proof, the nose is elegant, with cherry and peach pie aromas, as well as vanilla, deep caramel and soft cedar plants touched with apricot and dates. The sip is warm, yet balanced, with burnt orange, apricot jam, and soft marzipan next to black-tea soaked dates, old figs, and brandy-stewed prunes. There are notes of chocolate and hazelnut at the end with a nice mix of mincemeat pies and sticky toffee pudding. 66.4% ABV.
The Bourbon Lens is joined by Logan Welk, President and Chief Operating Officer of B.R. Distilling Company. B.R. Distilling is known for their portfolio of Blue Note Bourbon and Rye Whiskeys. Logan has moved up the ranks at Blue Note and is well-versed in the ins-and-outs of the business of bourbon and brand-building. We also discuss whether Blue Note Bourbon and Rye will help improve your pickleball game, on the heels of their recent announcement of becoming the official bourbon of Major League Pickleball. Join us for this insightful and inside-look at growing a bourbon brand. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 5 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our growing Patreon Community of supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to read our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens Blue Note Bourbon™, the award-winning whiskey portfolio which features big notes and a smooth structure, is making waves in the spirits industry. Founded in 2014, B.R. Distilling Company holds the oldest distillery license in the city of Memphis, Tennessee. Blue Note, launched in 2018, is artfully crafted to honor the rich blues music that is synonymous with Memphis. The brand's whiskey portfolio is distilled in partnership with Bardstown Bourbon Company (parent company of Green River Distilling Company) and then aged just north of downtown where the Mississippi and Wolf Rivers collide. The long summers filled with infamous Memphis heat and cooler evenings forces the whiskey deep into the oak, creating an unmistakably rich flavor that's bold yet smooth. “The location of our warehouses with high humidity and higher average temperatures than Kentucky make it the perfect place to age our whiskey,” said Logan Welk, President and Chief Operating Officer, B.R. Distilling Company. “Our award-winning flagship Blue Note expressions prove that point, with both Juke Joint and Crossroads winning Double Gold at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition two years running and Blue Note Uncut being named #7 on Whisky Advocate's list of top whiskeys in 2022.” The Blue Note Bourbon portfolio includes: Blue Note Juke Joint ($34.99) Blue Note's flagship Straight Bourbon Whiskey is bottled at 93-proof, unfiltered Mash Bill: 70% corn, 21% rye, and 9% malted barley Awards: 2024 Platinum Medal, San Francisco World Spirits Competition; 2022, 2023 and 2024 Double Gold Medals, Wine Enthusiast (93 pts) Blue Note Crossroads ($44.99) Finished with several types of toasted French oak staves and bottled at 100-proof, unfiltered Mash Bills: 70% corn, 21% rye, 9% malted barley and 78% corn, 13% rye, 9% malted barley Awards: 2024 Platinum Medal, San Francisco World Spirits Competition; 2022, 2023 and 2024 Double Gold Medals Blue Note Uncut ($49.99) Aged for a minimum of four years and bottled at variable proofs Mash Bill: 70% corn, 21% rye, and 9% malted barley Awards: Whisky Advocate's #7 top whiskeys of 2022 (92 pts) Blue Note Straight Rye Whiskey ($34.99) The most recent release is bottled at 93-proof, unfiltered Mash Bill: 95% rye and 5% malted barley Awards: 2024 ASCOT Awards Double Platinum, Whisky Advocate (90 pts) The brand has also introduced several highly awarded limited-release offerings, which include Premium Small Batch, Single Barrel Reserve, 17-year, and Special Reserve. Blue Note's packaging is unique and quintessentially Memphis. Metallic blue music notes accent the front label, which features a guitar-like illustration, further reinforcing the product's connection to the Bluff City's musical roots. Production Facility & Tasting Room The 110,000 square foot production facilities, located on Royal Avenue just North of downtown Memphis, are open from Monday through Friday from 10am – 4:00pm and includes a unique and intimate tasting room. Guided tours are available on Thursdays and Fridays for $10 plus tax & fees. Guests can add a Tasting Flight Experience for an additional $5. For more information and to book a guided, behind-the-scenes tour, visit www.bluenotebourbon.com. About B.R. Distilling Company Founded in 2014 in Memphis, TN, B.R. Distilling Company is the oldest licensed distillery in Memphis, TN, and producer of world-famous Blue Note Bourbon. Currently, the company produces four flagship expressions, along with regular limited releases, which are distributed across 17 U.S. states, including: AL, AR, CO, CT, FL, GA, KS, KY, LA, MS, MO, NY, NJ, OK, SC, TN, and TX, and online at BlueNoteBourbon.com via Bevstack, which can be shipped to: AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MN, MO, NE, NJ, NC, NM, NV, NH, NY, ND, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, TX, VA, WA and WI. Please sip responsibly. Image Credit: Blue Note Bourbon / B.R. Distilling
Jake and Scott sit down with two new, rare releases from Wild Turkey Distillery. The guys talk about their recent trip to Wild Turkey and taste Russell's Reserve 15 Year Old Kentucky Bourbon and Wild Turkey Master's Keep Triumph Rye. A big thank you to the PR team for Wild Turkey and Russell's Reserve who helped maked this episode possible by providing generous samples of these two limited releases. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 5 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our growing Patreon Community of supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to read our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens Image Credit: Wild Turkey Distillery
Jake and Scott share a few pours of whiskey in this week's “Hosts-Only” podcast episode of Bourbon Lens. We discuss all things Beam and the powerhouse that is The James B. Beam Distilling Co. We kick off the discussion with Jim Beam Black, Beam's latest rebranding of their 7 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon. Then we kick it up a notch in proof and flavor with the Springfield Batch of Booker's Bourbon before wrapping up the discussion with Little Book Chapter 08: Path Not Taken. What is your favorite whiskey from The James B. Beam Distilling Co.? About Jim Beam: Jim Beam is the world's best-selling bourbon, crafted by eight generations of family distillers since 1795. Fred Noe, Jim Beam's seventh Generation Master Distiller, and Freddie Noe, Jim Beam's eighth Generation Master Distiller, have stayed true to the family recipe that's been passed down through generations. The Jim Beam portfolio of products includes Jim Beam Bourbon, Jim Beam Black®, Jim Beam Double Oak, Jim Beam Devil's Cut, Jim Beam Flavors, and Jim Beam Rye among other offerings. For more information, go to JimBeam.com @jimbeamofficial on Instagram and @jimbeam on Twitter. About the The James B Beam Distilling Co.: Founded by America's first family of bourbon, the James B. Beam Distilling Co. has crafted genuine American Whiskey since 1795. Its portfolio includes globally coveted and award-winning whiskey brands including Jim Beam®, Basil Hayden®, Knob Creek®, Booker's®, Baker's®, Little Book®, Legent®, Old Tub®, Old Overholt®, Old Crow®, and Old Grand-Dad®. Maintaining the whiskey traditions of eight generations of family distillers while advancing the category through innovation, the Beam family has defined what American Whiskey could be and should be for more than 225 years. The James B. Beam Distilling Co. crafts American Whiskey with genuine, quality ingredients that are distilled and aged without compromise at its family distilleries in Clermont, Kentucky. Image Credit: The James B. Beam Distilling Co. Facebook
Mark Vierthaler, Head Distiller for Whiskey Del Bac, joins Bourbon Lens to talk Single Malt. Whiskey Del Bac is known for its mesquite style of American Single Malt, but they have so much to offer for any fan of American Whiskey who is looking to explore what the Southwest has to offer. Founded in 2011, Whiskey Del Bac has really hit a stride with their releases including Dorado, Classic, Frontera, and their Distiller's Cut American Single Malts. We discuss each during this week's episode and found a well-balanced portfolio with something for everyone. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 5 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our growing Patreon Community of supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to read our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About Whiskey Del Bac Hamilton Distillers was born of a novel concept by former furniture producer and woodworker Stephen Paul. Paul observed the Velvet Mesquite, native to his home in Arizona's Sonoran Desert, leftover from his woodworking and conceived to use this easily sourced, local wood to make a mesquited style of American Single Malt whiskey modeled after Scotch. In just over a decade, the team at Hamilton Distillers has captured the spirit and terroir of the region of Sonora, down to the name itself. “Del Bac” draws from both Spanish and O'odham, the language of the indigenous peoples of the Sonoran Desert in southern and central Arizona. Bac translates to “place where the river appears in the sand,” referencing where the distillery sits along the Santa Cruz River. Whiskey Del Bac, a private family-owned and operated brand, was founded by father-daughter duo Stephen and Amanda Paul in 2011. Known for a unique mesquited American single malt whiskey, it produces a highly acclaimed portfolio of whiskeys made in Tucson, Arizona. Whiskey Del Bac exemplifies the desert of the southwest and native flavors of the region. Learn more at whiskeydelbac.com.
Bourbon Lens travels to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina to visit the Greg Norman Australian Grille. Greg Norman Australian Grille is the premier bourbon spot in Myrtle Beach and we had the privilege to host an exclusive bourbon tasting and dinner pairing for some of their VIPs. We take you inside the "One Flight Up" Speakeasy at Greg Norman Australian Grille to learn more about the restaurant's food and beverage programs and their extensive bourbon offerings. Add the Greg Norman Australian Grille to your travel list for a can't-miss bourbon experience. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for your support over the last 5 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our growing Patreon Community of supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at Info@BourbonLens.com. Check out BourbonLens.com to read our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About Greg Norman Australian Grille Greg Norman Australian Grille is an Australian heritage restaurant on the waterfront at Barefoot Landing in Myrtle Beach, SC. Our innovative menu features exotic Australian fare and a wine list that has received the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for 18 years, consistently ranking us as Myrtle Beach's premier steak and seafood restaurant. Guests can enjoy waterfront dining for lunch and dinner daily and Sunday brunch. Perfect patio pours are served during Happy Hour al fresco or in the Shark Pub where you can fill your glass as the boats float by. Waterborne patrons can enjoy 225 feet of dock space adjacent to the restaurant deck. We didn't invent waterfront dining. We only mastered it. The Best of Australia on the Carolina Coast. The exquisite décor of the Australian Grille will make you feel like you are dining in Sydney's finest harborside restaurant. The interior features rich grain leather and hand-crafted woods imported from across Australia and a hand-painted cathedral ceiling tops the main dining room, flanked by two artisan-crafted eucalyptus leaf chandeliers. Australian motifs and Aboriginal artwork adorn the walls throughout, while a full-length mural of Ayers Rock and cascading waterfalls transport bar guests to the Australian Outback. The Greg Norman Australian Grille offers diners, revelers, and families alike the ultimate dining experience. Questions or wish to reserve a table? Contact our host at (843) 361-0000 or book your reservation online (https://gregnormanaustraliangrille.com/reservations/) today. Greg Norman Australian Grille is located At Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. (4930 US-17 South, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582). About Greg Norman Arguably the most successful athlete-turned-businessman in the world, Greg Norman is known as much for his entrepreneurial spirit in the boardroom as his dominance on the golf course. Greg Norman now transcends the game of golf, with over a dozen companies around the world bearing his name and the iconic shark logo as part of the Greg Norman Company, which he leads as non-executive Chairman. His internationally recognized brand boasts more than 120 golf course designs across six continents, a global real estate collection, award-winning wine, golf-inspired lifestyle apparel and a diverse investment division. In 2021, Greg Norman became the first and founding CEO of LIV Golf Investments, a newly formed company whose purpose is to holistically improve the health of professional golf on a global scale to help unlock the sports' untapped potential.
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