Podcasts about whiskey ring

A Weirdly Timed Episode... Let's get the awkwardness out of the way - I had the pleasure of interviewing Mel Maddox, now-former Master Blender for Old Elk, on May 2nd. A few days later, it was announced that Old Elk had been acquired by Middle West Spirits (a previous guest!) and, subsequently, all workings at their Fort Collins, Colorado location were ceasing. This included laying off all production staff, including Mel.  This was still a wonderful conversation in which I learned about Old Elk, but my favorite part was learning more about Mel. The way she looks at whiskey when creating a blend is synesthetic, hard to describe to those who haven't experienced what color something tastes like or the what shape a mashbill makes in your mind. It's a beautiful talent (my version is seeing sounds in color) that is at once intangible and singular.  Long story short...I don't know what the next steps are for Old Elk, or for Mel, but I wish them both the best. I think Old Elk was putting out the best stuff it ever had, and clearly her talents were on full display in blending and finishing. We as whiskey enthusiasts can only hope her next role continues to rely on those talents.  Thank you to Mel for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring The Bottle Share Club - the $25/month Patreon level - is SOLD OUT! You can still support the podcast for as little as $1/month, and $5/month patrons will have first dibs if a $25/month member retires.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram and Facebook, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Old Elk Distillery Old Elk Distillery Website Old Elk Distillery on Instagram Old Elk Distillery on Facebook Old Elk Distillery on LinkedIn Old Elk Distillery on YouTube

Geese, Barley, and Peat At The First New Islay Distillery in 124 Years In this brand new episode of the Whiskey Ring Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with James Wills, son of founder Anthony Wills and a worldwide face of Kilchoman Distillery on Islay. This episode marks a significant milestone as it is my first interview with an Islay distillery (I was surprised too!), and I was excited to delve into the unique aspects of Kilchoman and the challenges of distilling on this iconic island. We start off where any good whisky podcast starts: with geese. Yes, geese. They're kind of a big deal there. I'm not known for going with the grain (yeah I said it) so why not there. Kilchoman has a lot more going for it, though, as it enters its 20th year in 2025. As the first new Islay distillery in 124 years, Kilchoman needed to be different. They couldn't just be peaty, they had to be unique - and thus they became the first farm-to-glass distillery on the island.  We chat about all the nerdy stuff you'd expect, like barley experimentation and yeast and fermentation, plus a dive into how their bourbon barrel sourcing and full-term maturation (note: not finishing!) work. There's also plenty to explore about the "whys" and inflection points in the distillery's two-decade evolution.  I've been wanting to have Kilchoman on for two years, and I'm thrilled to finally make that happen for the podcast and for you, the listeners and supporters.  Thank you to James for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring The Bottle Share Club - the $25/month Patreon level - is SOLD OUT! You can still support the podcast for as little as $1/month, and $5/month patrons will have first dibs if a $25/month member retires.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram and Facebook, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Kilchoman Distillery Kilchoman Website Kilchoman on Instagram Kilchoman on Facebook Kilchoman on LinkedIn Kilchoman on X

One Distillery, Two Time Zones, and Corsets and Whips, Oh My! Husband-and-wife team BIll and Johanna Welter came to whiskey through very different paths - thankfully, their union has produced not one, but two distilleries from which Journeyman's whiskies and spirits spring forth. Bill's passion for golf led him to St. Andrews, Scotland; Johanna's path led through hospitality, drinking whiskey at a time when "most women were drinking cosmos".  Somehow, Journeyman is still an under-the-radar distillery, albeit one with two locations (in Three Oaks, Michigan and Valparaiso, Indiana). For those in the know, they're producing some of the best wheat and wheated whiskey in the country, and for this episode I got to try their high-rye cask strength bourbon which, for my mind, might be even better than their wheaters. And to be clear, their wheated products are exempt from my recent distaste for wheaters...they are complete whiskies, whether one grain or multiple, and remain some of the few I'd have on my shelf.  Journeyman also holds distinction as a long-tenured distillery in the craft scene, launched in 2011 during the end of the first wave or beginning of the second (Bill wasn't quite sure, so we'll hedge!). They've turned that presence into their own formal and informal mentorship programs, lending help and knowledge to a new generation of distillers.  We also touch on the impact of recent tariffs and their Ingrained program, opening up contract distilling to producers without their own capacity in Journeyman's new 140,000 square foot Valparaiso location.  Thank you to Bill and Johanna for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring The Bottle Share Club - the $25/month Patreon level - is SOLD OUT! You can still support the podcast for as little as $1/month, and $5/month patrons will have first dibs if a $25/month member retires.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram and Facebook, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Journeyman Distillery Journeyman Website Journeyman on Instagram Journeyman on Facebook Journeyman on LinkedIn Journeyman on X

Bourbon Pursuit and Pursuit Spirits Enter the Whiskey Ring What do you ask when your guests have over 1,000 podcast episodes over three shows and 10 years? That was my task this week - let me know how I did!  My guests are Kenny Coleman and Ryan Cecil, hosts of the Bourbon Pursuit podcast and founders of Pursuit Spirits, an NDP grown out of their love of bourbon and rye and, in my mind, the dream that many of us on this side of the mic think about in our wildest fantasies.  The first thing, though is simple: with a full-time business (opening a new, second physical location and eventually aiming for 50,000 6-pack cases per year), three shows, and full-time jobs, how do they manage their time? How do you keep all the plates in the air? How do you take a piss-in-your-cheerios type like Kenny and keep the momentum up through challenges? If you're a long-time listener of Bourbon Pursuit, Behind the Pursuit, and Whiskey Quickies, you'll know most of their story, and I didn't want to reinvent the wheel. Instead, we dove into their business model, the changes in drinking habits over 10 years of podcasting and running a whiskey business, and how once in awhile their wives will still hold it over them that it was the wives who introduced the two guys all that time ago.  There are also deeper questions. We keep hearing brands have to own their backyard before growing further, but there's an asterisk: unless you live in Kentucky, where you simply can't own your backyard. How do you create a subscription model that incentivizes people to stay with you without overwhelming or outpricing them?  And finally, there's a new question adapted from *nerdiness alert* The History of Egypt Podcast: if there was one thing in whiskey that is currently unknown or uncertain and you could know or be sure, what would it be? The answer might surprise you - it certainly surprised me!  Thank you to Kenny and Ryan for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring The Bottle Share Club - the $25/month Patreon level - is SOLD OUT! You can still support the podcast for as little as $1/month, and $5/month patrons will have first dibs if a $25/month member retires.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram and Facebook, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Pursuit Spirits Pursuit Spirits Website Pursuit Spirits on Instagram Pursuit Spirits on Facebook Pursuit Spirits on LinkedIn Pursuit Spirits on X Bourbon Pursuit Bourbon Pursuit Website Bourbon Pursuit on Instagram Bourbon Pursuit on Facebook Bourbon Pursuit on YouTube Bourbon Pursuit on X

From Neighbors to Distillers: The Story Behind Oaklore Distilling Co. In this episode of the Whiskey Ring Podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with Matt Simpkins and Tom Bogan, the co-founders of Oaklore Distilling in North Carolina. Their journey began as neighbors bonding over their shared passion for whiskey while walking their kids to the bus stop. What started as casual "Tuesday drinking" sessions evolved into a deep dive into the world of whiskey, leading them to create their own distillery with a mission to produce a whiskey they would want to drink themselves. We explored the challenges of operating in North Carolina, a control state with specific regulations (though with a very friendly town!), and how they navigated these hurdles while experimenting with different finishes and mash bills. Their commitment to using locally sourced grains is evident in their North Carolina Straight Rye Whiskey, which I greatly enjoyed as a mid-spice rye (70/20/10) that isn't to bourbon-y or to herby. The conversation also highlighted their collaborative spirit within the whiskey community, drawing inspiration from established distillers like the Nelson brothers and John Hargrove, who provided invaluable guidance during their startup phase. Towards the end of the episode, we delved into their finishing series, including offerings like port wine and honey finishes, which reflect their personal stories and relationships with wineries including San Sebastian, the port producer we recently mentioned in last week's St. Augustine Distillery epsiode. This episode is a fascinating look into Oaklore Distilling's creative process, the challenges of starting a distillery, and their dedication to producing high-quality whiskey that embodies their passion and the rich heritage of North Carolina. Thank you to Tom and Matt for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring The Bottle Share Club - the $25/month Patreon level - is SOLD OUT! You can still support the podcast for as little as $1/month, and $5/month patrons will have first dibs if a $25/month member retires.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram and Facebook, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Oaklore Distilling Co. Oaklore Distilling Co. Website Oaklore Distilling Co. on Instagram Oaklore Distilling Co. on Facebook Oaklore Distilling Co. on LinkedIn

Whiskey, Rum, and Community: St. Augustine Distillery In this episode of the Whiskey Ring Podcast, we take a deep dive into the world of craft distilling in Florida, featuring two key figures from the St. Augustine Distillery: Will Hensler, the COO, and Rick deMontmollin, the VP of Production. As we explore the unique landscape of distilling in the Sunshine State, we uncover the rich history and innovative practices that have shaped St. Augustine Distillery into a standout player in the craft spirits scene. We kick off the conversation by discussing the origins of the distillery, which was established as the third beverage alcohol distillery in Florida and the first to produce whiskey. Will and Rick share insights into the early days of the distillery, including the challenges of navigating Florida's licensing requirements and the ambitious collaboration of 22 families that brought the distillery to life. They highlight the lack of distilling history in Florida and how the founders aimed to create a new legacy in the Lincolnville neighborhood of St. Augustine. The episode delves into the evolution of craft distilling laws in Florida, including the ability for craft distilleries to serve cocktails and the ongoing restrictions on out-of-state investment. Will and Rick explain how these regulations have shaped their growth strategy and the importance of maintaining their craft status. As we wrap up the episode, we explore the distillery's commitment to sustainability and community involvement, as well as their dedication to employee education and retention. Will and Rick share their vision for the future of St. Augustine Distillery, emphasizing the importance of quality, community, and the unique Florida identity that they strive to embody in every bottle. Thank you to Ric and Will for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring The Bottle Share Club - the $25/month Patreon level - is SOLD OUT! You can still support the podcast for as little as $1/month, and $5/month patrons will have first dibs if a $25/month member retires.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram and Facebook, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  St. Augustine Distillery St. Augustine Distillery Website St. Augustine Distillery on Instagram St. Augustine Distillery on Facebook St. Augustine Distillery on X St. Augustine Distillery on YouTube St. Augustine Distillery on LinkedIn  

Are You In The Muff Market? Are You A Muff Liquor Man?  Ok folks, we're going to have fun on this one.  When I started the research for this episode, I wasn't sure whether the "Muff Liquor Company" name was a tongue-in-somewhere thing or a hard lean-in. Turns out it's the latter with a healthy dose of the former. It is a company based in Muff, Ireland that makes liquor, and yes they know what the name means.  If you doubt it, check out their April Fool's Day post from this year...just delightfully dirty.  Once you're past the name, though, you've got to have a good product for me to care, and boy do they. I'm joined by Laura Bonner, founder of Muff Liquor Company and probably the closest connection I'll ever have to Jimmy Carr and Ed Sheeran. She's made Muff Liquors of these men, joining Russell Crowe and other notable celebs as spokespeople and investors.  The journey was long and hard, and nothing came easy (ok, last puns, I promise). COVID nearly put them under before they could begin. Now, they're thriving, and the US market awaits.  Muff Liquor's Irish Whiskey is a delicious pour, smoked apples and gentle, sweet peat, at a ridiculously affordable price point (all of their products are $34.99 MSRP, give or take). Take a shot - see if you enjoy diving into the Muff as much as I did (ok, THAT's the last one).  Thank you to Laura for entering to the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring The Bottle Share Club - the $25/month Patreon level - is SOLD OUT! You can still support the podcast for as little as $1/month, and $5/month patrons will have first dibs if a $25/month member retires.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram and Facebook, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  The Muff Liquor Company The Muff Liquor Company Website The Muff Liquor Company on Instagram The Muff Liquor Company on Facebook The Muff Liquor Company on X The Muff Liquor Company on YouTube

Blueberry Muffins in Cognac and an Ice Cream Collab Waiting To Happen Allison Parc began as a ballet dancer, and nearly 20 years after leaving that career behind, she still exudes the confidence and posture of one about to assume first position. Her new career, embarked upon at just 23 years old, was wildly different: one grounded in a product of indulgence and imbibing. Even she was unsure if she'd succeed - yet succeed she has, going from renting a Citi-bike and riding around NYC selling Brenne by the bottle to multiple acquisitions and international acclaim.  Brenne is the first French whisky to grace the podcast, and that was purposeful. France has thousands of distilleries making whiskies and brandies, many of them as small as the smallest craft producers in the US yet putting out incredibly unique spirits. For Allison, Brenne was born of a partnership with a cognac-maker who spent a few weeks every year making spirit from malt rather than grapes. The stills, the terroir, the maker all combine into a flavor profile that is so recognizable I'd argue it can't be blinded (blueberry pancakes or muffin tops are shared notes by everyone I know who has tasted it).  Whether the soft approachability of the Brenne Estate Cask or the more assertive reward of the Brenne 10 Year Old, this is a beautiful pair of whiskies. These profiles were built on years of testing the market, sending bottles on a barrel-by-barrel basis to see which ones hit the consumer the best (the first time I've heard of this method, and one requiring great patience). Singular. Unique. These words are overused, but here I found them more appropriate than for most.  As Allison steps back from full-time work at Brenne toward her next chapter, she joined me to reflect on the steps taken and her own journey. Allison's candid reflections on the challenges of entrepreneurship, including the realities of burnout and the need for self-care in a demanding industry will resonate with you as with me. Most of all, remember these two thoughts of wisdom from Allison: we all have trauma, and it is our responsibility to deal with it, and that only you can achieve your dreams. Take the first step, and the support net will grow.  Thank you to Allison for entering to the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring The Bottle Share Club - the $25/month Patreon level - is SOLD OUT! You can still support the podcast for as little as $1/month, and $5/month patrons will have first dibs if a $25/month member retires.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Brenne Whisky Brenne Whisky Website Brenne Whisky on Instagram Brenne Whisky on Facebook Brenne Whisky on X

Shochu Tradition Meets The New Japanese Whisky In Kagoshima, along one of the longest beaches in Japan, lies Kanosuke Distillery. Though the family has been distilling shochu for 140+ years, they hadn't entered the whisky sphere. That changed in 2017, with the first products coming out in 2021.  This is a new standard for Japanese whisky, making grain whisky on shochu stills and using Japanese stills to distill the malt. They've aged as much as 40% of their new make in their own shochu casks, and the component series I've tasted with just the shochu cask-aged spirit is as different a Japanese whisky as I've had in years.  As they enter the US market more fully, the Kanosuke team is led by Roland Ng, a techie-turned-whiskyphile who serves as General Manager for the Americas and is also a founder of Fog City Social. He's a guy who knows his whisky (and is a great hang out!), and I'm glad to call him a friend.  Thank you to Roland for entering to the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring The Bottle Share Club - the $25/month Patreon level - is SOLD OUT! You can still support the podcast for as little as $1/month, and $5/month patrons will have first dibs if a $25/month member retires.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Kanosuke Distillery Kanosuke Distillery. Website Kanosuke Distillery on Instagram Kanosuke Distillery on Facebook

He's ozonating spirits, y'all - what the hell.  I'm thrilled to welcome back my friend, distilling guru, alchemist, historian, artist, swearer, and so many more things, Alan Bishop.  There's no need for long show notes on this one. It's a wild ride, from injecting ozone into sunflower spirit to what it means to be the face and embodiment of a brand. Everything else in the middle is a bonus.  Yes there's cursing. Yes there's dirt dished. Unclench your ass, strap in, and enjoy the ride.  Thank you to Alan for returning to the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring The Bottle Share Club - the $25/month Patreon level - is SOLD OUT! You can still support the podcast for as little as $1/month, and $5/month patrons will have first dibs if a $25/month member retires.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Old Homestead Distilling Co. Old Homestead Distilling Co. Website Old Homestead Distilling Co. on Instagram Old Homestead Distilling Co. on Facebook  

Where I Spent More Time With A Cat Than In The Distillery Though I really ought to return!  Leiper's Fork Distillery was founded by Lee Kennedy, who had a long-standing fascination with the history and science of whiskey production (starting with a Fox Fire book series I'd never heard of, all about Appalachian life). After experimenting with home distilling as a teenager, Kennedy pursued establishing the distillery in Williamson County, Tennessee, facing the same hurdles faced by recent and past guests such as Chattanooga Whiskey and even Jack Daniel's.  The distillery's design and production methods are heavily influenced by the Scots-Irish heritage of whiskey making, with a focus on using local ingredients and traditional pot still techniques and designs to create a singular new make spirit while still playing with things like Vienna malt. The distillery has found unexpected success in attracting tourists, with close to 30,000 paid tours per year, leveraging the scenic rural setting and historic buildings to return to pre-COVID levels of foot traffic.  Finally, something I love to highlight whenever possible: beyond whiskey production, Leiper's Fork Distillery is actively involved in the local community and has established the Freedom Whiskey Foundation to support transitioning Special Operations veterans, providing scholarships, networking, and entrepreneurial assistance.  Thank you to Lee for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are two (2) spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level. These are the last spots that will ever be opened without a current member retiring - if you've been waiting, now's the time!  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Leiper's Fork Distillery Leiper's Fork Distillery Website Leiper's Fork Distillery on Instagram Leiper's Fork Distillery on Facebook Leiper's Fork Distillery on LinkedIn

Sugar Kelp, A Little Peat, And A Vision For The Future I first heard about - well, read about - Isle of Harris Distillery in Dave Broom's A Sense of Place. A small community known for its beauty, its tweed, and its declining population, its would-be savior was not a Scot at all, but an American who had grown fond of the area (owning an island nearby) and wanted to save it.  How though? A distillery - not one that would fall into the cycle of boom and bust that had doomed so many previous ventures seeking to draw people back to the island, but one built for generational growth. It would be of the island - Hearach - and for the Hearach, the islanders.  Its gin shocked the market, being both simple and elegant. Flavored with sugar kelp harvested by hand nearby and in a Stranger & Stranger-designed waveform bottle, it rode the wave of gins right at the crest to such success that the whisky could continue to age. In 2023, The Hearach Single Malt debuted to stunning fanfare. The Tarbert Ten - the original 10 employees - had grown to 50, with more growth ahead and long-term sustainability in mind. If that's not enticing enough, just take a listen - there's something to love here, a great deal, in fact, and I'm thrilled to have taken the time to bring you their story.  Thank you to Shona and Iona for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are four (4) spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level. These are the last spots that will ever be opened without a current member retiring - if you've been waiting, now's the time!  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Isle of Harris Distillery Isle of Harris Distillery Website Isle of Harris Distillery on Instagram Isle of Harris Distillery on Facebook Isle of Harris Distillery on Twitter/X Isle of Harris Distillery on YouTube Isle of Harris Distillery on LinkedIn

An OG New York Distiller - But You May Know Them From Elsewhere Finger Lakes Distilling is one of the oldest distilleries in New York, having started in 2007. They're part of the Empire Rye collaborative, and are producing whiskies, brandies, vodka, and a soju spirit.  But you probably know them for a serendipitous partnership: Pursuit Spirits, from Kenny and Ryan at Bourbon Pursuit, who used Finger Lakes Distilling bourbon and rye in their single barrels and, later, their blends. Finger Lakes - also going by FLX - is a component in Barrell blends, too, but that's not for the parties to say (no NDA for me!).  I'm joined by Brian McKenzie, founder and the original distiller. When they started, there were no manuals, few people they could talk to to figure out how to distill, but they did it - and now, they pass that knowledge on to new distillers. There's no greater legacy than that.  Thank you to Brian for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are four (4) spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level. These are the last spots that will ever be opened without a current member retiring - if you've been waiting, now's the time!  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Finger Lakes Distillery Finger Lakes Distillery Website Finger Lakes Distillery on Instagram Finger Lakes Distillery on Facebook  

High Malt Bourbon and Community Support, No LCP Needed: The Story Behind Chattanooga Whiskey A few years is a lifetime in craft whiskey, and few brands epitomize this more to me than Chattanooga Whiskey. When I first tried them - most likely their now-gone 1816, which was sourced transparently but not representative of where they are today - I was not a fan. Something was off, and I resisted revisiting the brand for years. Then, The Whiskey Bard himself, Nino Kilgore-Marchetti, reached out asking if I wanted to try their new Islay Cask finish. Why not - it's been a few years, and by my estimation, that's time for a retasting. And bravo to Chattanooga - their "new" whiskey, that is their Tennessee High Malt Bourbon, is excellent, and the Islay Cask finishing series release added to that. There's a lot to cover in this episode, from uncovering Chattanooga's distilling past to a rip-the-band-aid-off brand transition, all the way to their wins for Craft Producer of the Year 2023 for both the US and the world. Throughout, this episode is a celebration of the craft whiskey movement and the passion driving its revival in Chattanooga. No Lincoln County Process here, folks - this is a Tennessee High Malt Bourbon, loud and proud. Thank you to Tim for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are four (4) spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level. These are the last spots that will ever be opened without a current member retiring - if you've been waiting, now's the time!  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Chattanooga Whiskey Chattanooga Whiskey Website Chattanooga Whiskey on Instagram Chattanooga Whiskey on Facebook Chattanooga Whiskey on YouTube

From Bogs to Bottles: Peat's Unbreakable Bond With Whiskey This one's for you, Bill. In this episode of the Whiskey Ring Podcast, I had the pleasure of welcoming Mike Billett, a peatland specialist and researcher, to discuss his newly released book, Peat and Whiskey: The Unbreakable Bond. His passion for peat led him to write a popular science book that not only highlights the scientific aspects of peat but also intertwines it with the cultural and historical significance of whiskey. There is so much more than can be covered in a single episode or writeup, but we touch on:  Peat's significance as a fuel source and how that brought it together with whisky The changing uses and applications of peat as coal and oil overtook peat as a fuel source How peat forms, is stripped, and how it occurs on all 7 continents and a landmass equal to about 3% of the total surface of the earth How regionality of peat in whisky is, at best, a red herring, particularly in modern whisky The importance of peat in climate change, carbon capture, and why conservation and reconstruction of peatlands are crucial to our future I cannot recommend Mike's book highly enough. Even if you're not a whisky drinker, you'll have plenty to learn about peat. If you don't love peat, you'll still get a better sense of how the modern whisky landscape developed, through the lenses of taxes, regulations, consolidation and expansion cycles, and the subtle globalization that led Scottish peat to reach Australia, New York, Belgium, and elsewhere all at the same time. Scientifically-interested folks wiil also love the dive into cresols, phenols, and guaiacols. There's more than one PhD thesis I want to read after this interview.  Pick up the book on Amazon or wherever you get your books! Thank you to Mike for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are four (4) spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level. These are the last spots that will ever be opened without a current member retiring - if you've been waiting, now's the time!  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Peat and Whisky  Purchase Peat and Whisky

Untangling the Myths and Legends of Whiskey How many distillery tours have you been on? Are you a veteran of the hobby, or a new entrant looking to learn as much as they can, or perhaps someone on a family trip taking a brief trip to a nearby distillery for fun? Whichever of these applies to you, chances are you will hear something (probably multiple somethings) that are apocryphal, stories told so many times and pushed so hard that you believe them upon hearing.  Some might have elements of truth, some might even be mostly true. In the world of whiskey, though, the story is almost always more important and pervasive than the truth.  Drew Hannush, owner of Travel Fuels Life, host of the now-ended Whiskey Lore Podcast, and author of several books including Experiencing Kentucky Bourbon, has long been someone I've looked to when doing research or trading names of people and distilleries to which I should pay attention. I didn't realize how long I'd been supporting him on Patreon, and it's been well worth it.  In his new book, Whiskey Lore: Volume 1: Bourbon, Scotch, Irish Whiskey: The Real Stories Behind the Biggest Myths and Legends, Drew invites us to interrogate these stories and uncover the history behind the tales. Some of the most well-known whiskey legends are questioned: was Elijah Craig really the "father of bourbon"? where did the term "bourbon whiskey" originate from? and our shared favorite, is Jack Daniel's bourbon?  Spanning both sides of the Atlantic, the stories behind American, Scotch, and Irish whiskies are investigated with the eye of someone looking for as much of the truth as we can find. While the "real" story isn't always knowable, Drew searches for that gray area between truth and fiction to find, at least, a place where we can feel comfortable going on a distillery tour and not wanting to assail the stories our guides tell us. In the meantime, you may learn the backgrounds of legends and myths you never even knew about. Whether listening in Drew's radio-ready voice or reading the book yourself, you'll come out understanding how marketing and stories are created. Add in the now-ubiquitous AI component we all see on ever search, and Drew creates a context and starting point for his trademark style of research-driven storytelling.  "Only" 24 myths and legends made it into Volume One, and by Drew's telling, he's got at least a few dozen more for future volumes. He's also about to revisit Experiencing Kentucky Bourbon with a 31-distilleries-in-10-days-trip and soliciting recommendations for his "Great 48" tour of distilleries in the lower 48 states. Join me and Drew on his (and my!) Patreon to be part of something big - I know you'll love it just like I do.  Thank you to Drew for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are six (6) spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level. These are the last 6 spots that will ever be opened without a current member retiring - if you've been waiting, now's the time!  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Whiskey Lore Links Purchase Whiskey Lore Volume One  Whiskey Lore and Travel Fuels Life Website Whiskey Lore Patreon Whiskey Lore on Instagram Whiskey Lore on YouTube Whiskey Lore on LinkedIn

There's More To Western Pennsylvania Than The Whiskey Rebellion! If you're a whiskey nerd of any level, of course you know this, but it's worth saying again. Previous guests such as Wigle Whiskey and Liberty Pole Spirits have done excellent work exploring the Whiskey Rebellion's place in history and its importance to the area - so if you're a new distillery looking to find your niche, you better bring something new or different to the table.  When Matt Strickland had the opportunity to return stateside from his time at Distillerie Cotes de Saints, the call came from Pittsburgh, but he had a question: what does success look like? And what will set us apart?  Before a drop was distilled or a brick laid, the answer became clear: revive a style of rye (or multiple styles, more accurately) using heritage grains, a pot still, and a three-chamber still, only the second active one in the US and third in the world. Working with only Pennsylvania farmers (including previous guest Bob McDonald) and thought leaders like Laura Fields, Matt built out the distillery with the blessings of his bosses to make it authentic and make it right, efficiency be damned.  Bringing in historically accurate features like 38-43 gallon barrels and brick, steam-heated warehouses similar to what they would have used in the 19th and early 20th centuries, The Iron City Team is creating a new, old, new again style of whiskey. We have a bit more time before the whiskies are ready for the public, but I'm as excited as anyone to try them.  Matt will also be back to talk more about his writing and education after delving a bit into his work in this episode, so more to come!  Thank you to Matt for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are six (6) spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level. These are the last 6 spots that will ever be opened without a current member retiring - if you've been waiting, now's the time!  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Iron City Distilling Iron City Distilling Website Iron City Distilling on Instagram Iron City Distilling on Facebook

Bats, Bees, and Bushels - Farm Distilling in Georgia For my first "visit" to Georgia, I wanted to find somewhere that felt truly of the land. You can't do better than Doc Brown Farm & Distillers. Georgia terroir, farming their own heritage corn (Jimmy Red!) and getting whatever they can't grow themselves locally, even Georgia barrels. It's all about Georgia, and it's all about the sense of place.  Amy Brown, her son Dan, and Amy's partner Paige Dockweiler (the "Doc" in Doc Brown) founded Doc Brown in 2019, inspired by an article on Jimmy Red corn in Garden & Gun magazine. Jimmy Red is most known today for use by High Wire Distilling (a recent Whiskey Ring Podcast guest!), but it was in fact grown originally in Georgia before going nearly extinct. Farming is in both families' DNA, stretching as far back as 1816 in the US, and despite day jobs as banker, RN, and pilot, the farm is where all three felt they really belonged.  Doc Brown is about Georgia and partnership. Inspired by collaborative brands such as Bardstown Bourbon Company and Barrell, the team has created a simple yet strong set of bourbons that reflect their heritage. Uncle Bogue (cask strength), Effie Jewel (92 proof), and the upcoming Resurrection Red all play on the family histories and gorgeous Jimmy Red corn. Seriously - the kernels look like pomegranate seeds, little garnet jewels.  Jimmy Red gives you one harvest per year, and with one crop, annual yields can vary widely. Off-season crop rotations ensure the land isn't overworked, and bees and bats pollinate and keep away pests naturally. Once the corn reaches optimal moisture (~14%), it's run through the mill, fermented, and distilled within 48-72 hours. This is the spirit of true farm distilling, with the only caveat being more partnership: distillation is done at the Distillery of Modern Art, still in-state. Amy is passionate about farming and taking care of the land, and that passion emanates from her during this interview. I hope you enjoy hearing it as much as I enjoyed the conversation! Thank you to Amy for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are six (6) spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level. These are the last 6 spots that will ever be opened without a current member retiring - if you've been waiting, now's the time!  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Doc Brown Farm and Distillers Doc Brown Farm and Distillers Website Doc Brown Farm and Distillers on Instagram Doc Brown Farm and Distillers on Facebook Doc Brown Farm and Distillers on X Doc Brown Farm and Distillers on YouTube

Italy, Nashville, and Danville Enter The Distilling Ring In this episode of the Whiskey Ring Podcast, I had the pleasure of welcoming Francesco Viola, the founder of Luca Mariano Distillery, to discuss his journey in the world of distilling. Francesco's story is deeply rooted in his family's Italian heritage, which adds a unique flavor to his approach to bourbon production. We kicked off the conversation by exploring the origins of Luca Mariano Distillery, tracing back to Francesco's great-grandfather, Baldassare Viola, who began distilling in the early 1900s. His journey took him from Italy to America, and later to Ontario, Canada, where he ran a distilling operation during Prohibition. Francesco shared how this rich family history inspired him to pursue distilling himself, starting in his garage in Michigan before transitioning to a licensed operation in 2013. Francesco recounted his early days of distilling, including a soft launch in Nashville and the eventual decision to move to Kentucky, where he found the perfect property in Danville. We discussed the significance of the land, which has a storied past in distilling, and how it influenced the design of the distillery and rickhouse. The rickhouse, modeled after a tobacco barn (and a three-tier cake), features innovative airflow designs that enhance the aging process of the whiskey such as massive numbers of windows. As we delved deeper into the distillery's operations, Francesco highlighted the importance of using high-quality ingredients and traditional methods, combined with modern technology. He emphasized the role of his team, including master distiller David Phillips and chemist Amanda Kaufman, both of whom bring extensive experience from renowned distilleries such as Beam and Maker's Mark. Their collaboration aims to push the boundaries of bourbon production while maintaining the integrity of the craft. We also touched on the recent transition to using Kelvin Cooperage barrels, which Francesco believes will elevate the quality of their whiskey. ISC provided barrels for many years, and Francesco was clear the transition isn't about the barrel quality, it's about the more intimate B2C relationship that's possible with Kelvin. He explained how the craftsmanship of these barrels, along with the unique design of the rickhouse, will contribute to a richer flavor profile and better yield. Throughout the episode, Francesco's passion for distilling and commitment to quality were evident. He shared his vision for the distillery, which includes not only producing exceptional bourbon but also creating a welcoming environment for visitors, infused with Italian hospitality. As we wrapped up our conversation, I was left inspired by Francesco's journey and the exciting future of Luca Mariano Distillery. This episode is a testament to the power of heritage, innovation, and the art of distilling, and I can't wait to see how Francesco continues to shape the bourbon landscape in Kentucky. Thank you to Francesco for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are six (6) spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level. These are the last 6 spots that will ever be opened without a current member retiring - if you've been waiting, now's the time!  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Luca Mariano Distillery Luca Mariano Distillery Website Luca Mariano Distillery on Instagram Luca Mariano Distillery on Facebook Luca Mariano Distillery on LinkedIn Luca Mariano Distillery on YouTube

Whiskey in Wyoming, via Nevada and NorCal It's been nearly 20 years since I visited Wyoming, and I still remember it as one of the most beautiful places in the US. The least populous state, with multitudes more cattle and sheep than people, it is nonetheless one of astounding natural beauty, where small towns abound and you know your neighbors and who's growing your grain.  This was the place Chad Brown wanted to bring his family. After years in Nevada working for the Gaming Commission and a small brewing hobby in his garage, a conversation with his cousin brought up the question: if they were making pennies on a batch of barley, where was the money going? There were so many breweries - what about starting a distillery? Tasting notes for this episode There's a long thread to explore there, but the key is this: Chad moved to Pine Bluffs, WY, in the southeast corner by the capital, Cheyenne, a town with "more elevation than people." Over the last decade, he and his team have founded and grown Pine Bluffs Distilling into a destination and a grain-to-glass distillery working with local farmers (we're talking between 15-25 miles away from the farm depending on the year's crops).  Bourbon, rye, single malt, oated bourbon, oat whiskey, finishes, playing with the flavoring grains to see what would happen, all of it is here. Chad's passion vibrates out of him when he talks, and it's easy to see why Pine Bluffs has a bright future. When your founder cares, it flows to the team and to the guests. It was truly a pleasure to have this be the first distillery I talk to in Wyoming, and thank you to Chad for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are six (6) spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level. These are the last 6 spots that will ever be opened without a current member retiring - if you've been waiting, now's the time!  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Pine Bluffs Distilling Pine Bluffs Distilling Website Pine Bluffs Distilling on Instagram Pine Bluffs Distilling on Facebook Pine Bluffs Distilling on LinkedIn  

Makers, Not Fakers: Phil Brandon on Craft Distilling in Little Rock, Arkansas In this episode of the Whiskey Ring Podcast, I am thrilled to welcome Phil Brandon, the founder and distiller of Rock Town Distillery in Little Rock, Arkansas. As the first legal distillery in the state since before Prohibition, Rock Town emphasizes the importance of local sourcing and building a distillery that reflects the character of Arkansas, despite the challenges of being a pioneer in a state not traditionally known for distilling. We delve into the craft distilling renaissance and how the landscape has evolved since Rock Town's founding in 2010. Phil discusses the significance of their unofficial motto, "We're makers, not fakers," and the commitment to quality and authenticity that drives their production. He also highlights the historical context of distilling in Arkansas, the challenges of sourcing local ingredients, and the meticulous care that goes into their distillation process, including proofing and filtration techniques. Finally, we explore Rock Town's future, including a collaboration with Bardstown Bourbon Company which began during the pandemic and has allowed Phil and the team to expand production while maintaining the integrity of the brand. He candidly addresses the differences in flavor profiles between the distillate produced in Little Rock and that made at Bardstown, emphasizing the creation of a separate product line to distinguish these offerings. This episode is a deep dive into the world of craft distilling, showcasing the Rock Town team's passion and commitment to quality in every bottle. Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Phil for entering the Whiskey Ring!   Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are six (6) spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level. These are the last 6 spots that will ever be opened without a current member retiring - if you've been waiting, now's the time!  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Rock Town Distillery Rock Town Distillery Website Rock Town Distillery on Instagram Rock Town Distillery on Facebook Rock Town Distillery on LinkedIn Rock Town Distillery on Twitter/X

This week's episode takes a look at the scandal filled presidency of Ulysses S. Grant, who while trying to rebuild the country in the aftermath of the American Civil War found himself fighting off corruption from within on multiple fronts. The largest of which was the Whiskey Ring, a criminal organization with political ties that was stealing millions from the government and was getting a little too close to the Oval Office for comfort.

Jimmy Red Corn And We Should All Care!  In this episode of the Whiskey Ring Podcast, I welcome Scott Blackwell, co-founder of High Wire Distilling in Charleston, South Carolina. The conversation dives into Scott's diverse entrepreneurial background, which spans restaurants, coffee, and packaged foods, before transitioning into the spirits industry. Scott shares how his passion for flavor and culture led him to distilling, despite initially having little interest in spirits due to South Carolina's restrictive mini bottle laws. He emphasizes the importance of agriculture in crafting unique flavors, which ultimately shaped High Wire's identity. The discussion then shifts to the distillery's signature grain, Jimmy Red corn, which has become synonymous with High Wire's brand. Scott recounts the journey of discovering Jimmy Red, a variety known for its rich flavor profile and historical significance as a moonshiner's corn. He explains how their initial experiments with heirloom white corn didn't yield the desired results, prompting a search for a more flavorful alternative. With the guidance of heirloom grain expert Glenn Roberts and Johnny Appleseed of American Distilling Dave Pickerell, Scott and his team found that Jimmy Red not only provided a unique taste but also contributed to a distinctive oil cap during fermentation, enhancing the overall flavor of their whiskey. As the episode wraps up, Scott reflects on the challenges and rewards of crafting spirits that tell a story rooted in their local agriculture and culinary heritage. He discusses the potential for releasing a white whiskey made from Jimmy Red, highlighting the growing interest in showcasing the unique characteristics of this heirloom corn. The conversation underscores the importance of authenticity and quality in the craft spirits industry, as High Wire Distilling continues to carve out its niche in the competitive whiskey landscape. Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Scott for entering the Whiskey Ring!   Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are no more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level, but you can email me if you're interested and I will let you know as soon as a spot opens! If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  High Wire Distilling Co. High Wire Distilling Co Website High Wire Distilling Co. on Instagram High Wire Distilling Co. on Facebook High Wire Distilling Co. on LinkedIn High Wire Distilling Co. on YouTube

From March 12, 2019: As the nation braces for the forthcoming end of special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into President Trump and his associates, The Lawfare Podcast decided to take a look back at the complete history of special prosecutors.Benjamin Wittes sat down with Andrew Coan, a professor of law at the James E. Rogers College of Law at the University of Arizona. Coan recently published "Prosecuting the President," which traces the history of how special prosecutors and counsels work to keep the executive branch accountable for its actions. Ben and Andrew discussed the book, the Teapot Dome Scandal, the Whiskey Ring, and what all of that might mean for the future of special counsels.To receive ad-free podcasts, become a Lawfare Material Supporter at www.patreon.com/lawfare. You can also support Lawfare by making a one-time donation at https://givebutter.com/c/trumptrials.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/lawfare. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Monogram and the Wettest Block: Kansas City's Distilling Heritage In this episode of the Whiskey Ring Podcast, we're heading down to Kansas City, Missouri, to chat with Ryan Maybee, the co-founder of J. Rieger & Company. Ryan takes us on a journey from his early days as a bartender to the exciting revival of the historic J. Rieger brand, which originally flourished from 1887 until Prohibition put a stop to it all. We kick things off by discussing how the focus of Ryan's interviews has shifted over the years—from cocktail culture to the innovative whiskeys now coming out of J. Rieger. He dives into the unique terroir of Kansas City and how it plays a crucial role in their whiskey production, including their straight bourbon, bottled-in-bond bourbon, bottled-in-bond rye, and the fascinating Monogram whiskey, which features sherry—a nod to the blending practices of yesteryear. We also explore the rich whiskey history of Kansas City before Prohibition, the nuances of state laws affecting the spirits industry, and the distinction between Missouri bourbon and Kansas City whiskey. Ryan shares the story of how they navigated the TTB to establish Kansas City whiskey as a recognized category, highlighting their commitment to honoring the brand's roots while pushing the envelope in modern whiskey-making. As we wrap up, Ryan gives us a peek into the production process at J. Rieger, their upcoming 10th anniversary celebration, and what the future holds for the brand. This episode is a captivating exploration of the intersection of history, innovation, and the craft of whiskey-making in Kansas City. So grab a glass, sit back, and enjoy the ride! Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Ryan for entering the Whiskey Ring!   Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are no more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level, but you can email me if you're interested and I will let you know as soon as a spot opens! If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  J. Rieger & Co. Distillery J. Rieger & Co. Website J. Rieger & Co. on Instagram J. Rieger & Co. on Facebook J. Rieger & Co. on LinkedIn J. Rieger & Co. on YouTube

Whiskey Prison: Southern Grace Distilleries and Conviction Bourbon   Join us as we delve into the captivating story of Southern Grace Distilleries, one of North Carolina's most unique bourbon producers, with Thomas Thacker. Celebrating their 10th anniversary, Thomas shares the remarkable journey of crafting their signature Conviction bourbon. Learn about their distinctive Piedmont-style mash bill and the innovative Whiskey Prison tasting experience that beautifully blends history and innovation. In this episode, we explore the intricate art and science behind crafting Conviction bourbon, including the decision to use a lower barrel entry proof to enhance flavor. Discover how mash bills, Cooperage profiles, and environmental factors all play a role in the aging process. Thomas also reveals the community's crucial role in their growth and the transformation of a former prison into a storied distillery, adding depth and authenticity to their brand. Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Thomas for entering the Whiskey Ring!   Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are no more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level, but you can email me if you're interested and I will let you know as soon as a spot opens! If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Southern Grace Distilleries Southern Grace Distilleries Website Southern Grace Distilleries on Instagram Southern Grace Distilleries on Facebook Southern Grace Distilleries on LinkedIn Southern Grace Distilleries on X

My First Visit to South Carolina - And It Was Gold   Have you had any whiskey from South Carolina? No? Me neith...wait, yes, yes I have! Well, that's a bit facetious - by the time this comes out, I will have tried High Wire's Jimmy Red, too, but let's say the Carolinas weren't on my shelf before these bottles showed up to try.    In this episode of the Whiskey Ring Podcast, we venture into uncharted territory as we explore the low country of South Carolina. My guest is Chris Crowe, the President of Burnt Church Distillery, located in Bluffton, South Carolina, near Hilton Head. Chris shares the fascinating story behind the distillery, its unique location, and the rich history and culture that influence their craft. The story of Burnt Church Distillery has nothing to do with a church burning (seriously, they've looked into it), but it's fair to say there's plenty of smoke and a fire to pay attention to. Burnt Church tells the stories of its town - Bluffton - and the people whose stories emanate from its own. Anita Pollitzer, George Palmer, and the eponymous Bluffton Whiskey, all embody a distillery that has already found its voice and one to watch.    They got their distilling start at Jeptha Creed, but soon they'll be fully transitioned to all in-house distillate (it was still their recipes and such, just contracted there). I think the whiskies right now are solid, but with a very high ceiling and room to grow. They've got some big names to live up to, and soon enough I think they will. In the meantime, try some Carolina Gold Rice whiskey - seriously, new flavor profile for me, and damn delicious.    Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Chris for entering the Whiskey Ring!   Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There is 1 more spot available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Burnt Church Distillery Burnt Church Distillery Website Burnt Church Distillery on Instagram Burnt Church Distillery on Facebook Burnt Church Distillery on LinkedIn

New Riff Sour Mash Single Malt Enters Its Second Batch Join us as we welcome the singular Jay Erisman, co-founder of New Riff Distillery. From his beginnings as a fine spirits manager at the renowned Party Source to collaborating on innovative projects with Buffalo Trace and Four Roses, Jay's story is one of passion and ingenuity. Together with Ken Lewis, Jay turned a serendipitous moment into the creation of New Riff Distillery, a hub of creative whiskey production known for its experimental releases like the Backsetter series. More info on the Single Malt: https://www.newriffdistilling.com/single-malt/ Discover the art and science behind New Riff's single malt whiskey – now celebrating its second batch – where traditional techniques meet groundbreaking experimentation. Jay reveals the distillery's use of both new charred oak and a variety of used barrels, such as Portuguese brandy and Oloroso sherry, to craft complex and intriguing whiskey expressions. Inspired by Scottish traditions yet distinctly American, New Riff's creations push the boundaries of flavor, offering a peated malt whiskey that stands as a testament to their inventive spirit and dedication to crafting bold and flavorful spirits suited for diverse proof preferences. Explore the future of craft whiskey with insights into New Riff's upcoming releases and the art of whiskey blending. Learn how pioneering distilleries like Springbank and innovators like Compass Box inspire New Riff's approach to blending different malt whiskeys and cask types. With exciting prospects like whiskey number six, the Chevalier, and Paolo Cortado sherry casks on the horizon, New Riff continues to captivate whiskey enthusiasts with rich, smoky expressions that intrigue both bourbon and scotch lovers. Tune in to experience the harmonious balance of tradition and innovation that defines New Riff's unique approach to whiskey-making. Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Jay for entering the Whiskey Ring!   Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There is 1 more spot available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  New Riff Distillery New Riff Distillery Website New Riff Distillery on Instagram New Riff Distillery on Facebook New Riff Distillery on Twitter New Riff Distillery on YouTube

From 1770 to Today: The Return of Distilling in Glasgow   Sebastian Bunford-Jones, Global Marketing Manager for Glasgow Distillery, joins us for an engaging chat about the resurgence of whisky-making in this iconic city. We explore the distillery's bold journey as Glasgow's first new independent single malt producer in over a century and their mission to celebrate the city's rich heritage with a modern twist. From reviving traditional whisky-making with a contemporary spirit to crafting a diverse range of spirits, including gin, vodka, and rum, Sebastian unravels the exciting story behind their innovative approach and commitment to quality. Quality takes precedence over tourism at Glasgow Distillery, where the team focuses on unique whisky expressions that blend tradition with creativity. We delve into the intricacies of whisky production, from distillation techniques to cask selection and the impact of yeast strains on flavor. Highlighting their successful launch of the 1770 Whisky, Sebastian shares insights into the distillery's strategic expansion efforts, including investment in skilled personnel and premium casks, ensuring excellence in every bottle, while planning to enhance visitor experiences as the distillery grows. Explore the distillery's meticulous design and branding strategy, which weaves together Glasgow's architectural essence and community spirit. With an eye on the global market, Glasgow Distillery is crafting exceptional spirits that resonate with both local and international audiences. Discover how their diversified portfolio, including the introduction of Banditti rum, broadens market appeal, all while maintaining accessibility and transparency. As we wrap up, Sebastian offers a sneak peek into their upcoming small batch series set for release, showcasing the distillery's relentless innovation and dedication to crafting outstanding products. Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Sebastian for entering the Whiskey Ring!   Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There is 1 more spot available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Glasgow Distillery Glasgow Distillery Website Glasgow Distillery on Instagram Glasgow Distillery on Facebook Glasgow Distillery on LinkedIn

Heritage Grains, Modern Spirits, and a Craft Cocktail Revolution in Colorado In this episode, we explore the unique landscape of craft distilling in Colorado with Jamie Burns, the innovative lead distiller at The Family Jones Distillery. Jamie's journey is one of blending tradition with cutting-edge techniques, drawing from his extensive education, including a Master of Science in Brewing and Distilling from Heriot-Watt, and his experiences at Michigan State University. Discover how his background in biosystems engineering and his passion for food and beverage have shaped his approach to distilling. We dive deep into the use of unconventional grains, such as naked barley and heritage Oland wheat, and the collaborative efforts with local farmers and malting partners that drive The Family Jones' commitment to sustainability and flavor innovation. Learn about the challenges and triumphs in the distillation process, as well as the importance of maintaining a strong local presence while gradually expanding. The episode also delves into the art of branding, highlighting the stories and symbolism behind product names like Atticus Jones whiskey. Jamie shares insights into their organic growth strategy and community engagement efforts that embody the true spirit of Colorado. Join us for an inspiring conversation on how tradition and innovation come together in every bottle from The Family Jones Distillery. Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Jamie for entering the Whiskey Ring!   Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There is 1 more spot available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  The Family Jones The Family Jones Website The Family Jones on Instagram The Family Jones on Facebook The Family Jones on LinkedIn

Redefining Canadian Whisky And Mash Bills vs Grain Bills Nick Taylor is no stranger to blending - he hit 40 Scottish distilleries in 30 days pretending to be a whisky writer (and no, I asked, he wasn't caught!), and has since visited Ireland, Japan, and most of the distilleries in Kentucky, not to mention Canada. Bottom line, he knows that you don't have to distill to create something exceptional.  In creating Found North with his partners, Nick is taking on a monumental task - redefining Canadian whisky for an American market conditioned to see Canadian as lesser, inferior, or just plain bad. The big brands don't do themselves any favors, but then again they don't have much incentive (we get into that), so it's up to the small guys like Found North to crack that nut.  In a fascinating exploration of the art and science of whisky blending, Nick reveals how synesthesia and musical influences spark creativity in crafting harmonious blends, from classical to funky things even I had never heard of before. We delve into techniques for balancing flavors and how strategic buying and aging of whisky components allow Found North to create and fill a new niche. Throughout the episode, personal anecdotes and insights from Nick offer an engaging and enlightening look at the passion and expertise that drive Found North's unique journey in the whiskey world. Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Nick for entering the Whiskey Ring!   Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There is 1 more spot available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Found North Whisky Found North Whisky Website Found North Whisky on Instagram Found North Whisky on Facebook Found North Whisky on LinkedIn

An Innovative Copper Method and An Oregonian Distiller in Ireland Join me on this episode to Ireland's Boyne Valley, where we explore the historic and picturesque Brú na Bóinne and the modern Boann Distillery. I sit down with Alex Witt, the head distiller at Boann, who shares his captivating journey from the United States to Ireland and his immersion into the Irish whiskey industry. Alex takes us through the Cooney family's transition from brewing craft beer to creating whiskey, highlighting their passion for the drinks industry and the intimate, collaborative atmosphere of working in a family-run business. Discover the innovative and state-of-the-art facilities at Boann, which are housed in a repurposed car dealership, and get a sneak peek at their exciting new PX cask finish whiskey. In our conversation, we delve into the unique distillation techniques and sustainability initiatives at Boann Distillery. Alex provides insight into the application of nanotechnology in their distillation process, the historical significance of copper in whiskey production, and the potential for new whiskey releases pending regulatory changes. We also touch on Boann's commitment to environmental sustainability, plans for expansion, and their multifaceted visitor experience. With a rich discussion on maturation experiments and the use of diverse casks, this episode is a must-listen for whiskey enthusiasts and those interested in innovative production methods. Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Alex for entering the Whiskey Ring!   Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There is 1 more spot available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Boann Distillery Boann Distillery Website Boann Distillery on Instagram Boann Distillery on Facebook Boann Distillery on LinkedIn Boann Distillery on X Boann Distillery on YouTube

From Teachers to Distillers on the Longest Hike in Wales Ever wondered what it takes to leave behind a steady career and venture into uncharted territory? Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of Ellen Wakelam and her partner Alexander, who transformed their lives from a geography teacher and a baker to becoming founders of In the Welsh Wind Distillery. Ellen narrates their story, filled with adventurous walks around Wales and a life-changing trip to Scotland, culminating in the creation of a distillery that quickly gained momentum since its inception in 2018. We delve into their diverse spirit production, including gin, vodka, rum, and the burgeoning development of Welsh whisky. Our conversation also touches on the ambitious expansion into whisky production and the significance of creating an authentic Welsh whisky using locally grown grain. Ellen's passion shines through as she talks about their first whisky release and the excitement surrounding future batches. We explore the collaborative efforts to achieve Protected Geographical Indicator (PGI) status for Welsh whisky, emphasizing the unity and shared vision within the Welsh distilling community. Tune in to hear Ellen's dedication to tradition, quality, and the local community, and get a glimpse into the future of In the Welsh Wind Distillery. Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Ellen for entering the Whiskey Ring!   Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There is 1 more spot available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  In The Welsh Wind In The Welsh Wind Website In The Welsh Wind on Instagram In The Welsh Wind on Facebook In The Welsh Wind on LinkedIn

From Derby Winner to Whiskey Namesake (and the Beatles, too!) I sit down with Brian Luffman, co-founder of Never Say Die Spirits, to delve into the transatlantic journey that birthed their unique bourbon brand. We kick things off with the riveting tale of a horse named Never Say Die, whose life-saving shot of whiskey led to an improbable Epsom Derby win and ultimately funded a Liverpool music venue where the future Beatles first performed. Brian's passion for honoring this remarkable legacy through their whiskey-making process is clearly evident throughout the episode. You've got custom mashbills made at a distillery in Danville, Kentucky (though they can't say where, I hint strongly at it), with partners on both sides of the Atlantic. It's easy enough to start a brand nowadays, but not everyone does it from scratch with their own mashbills and yeasts. Add in the complexities of both Kentucky and English aging and a transatlantic journey, and there's much more to this brand than meets the eye.  Personally, I prefer the rye (so does Brian!), but both are solid pours at reasonable prices that have the extra component of a bottle designed by Stranger & Stranger, a guest on the Whiskey Ring Podcast back in Episode 74 and famous (to me) for their work with Compass Box.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Brian for entering the Whiskey Ring!   Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are 2 more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Never Say Die Spirits Never Say Die Spirits Website Never Say Die Spirits on Instagram Never Say Die Spirits on Facebook Never Say Die Spirits on Twitter Never Say Die Spirits on LinkedIn

The First Craft Distillery  St. George Spirits launched the craft distilling movement in the US. No, that's not an overstatement. Starting with brandies and eau-de-vies, adding whiskey in 1997 and various liqueurs, gins, and other spirits along the way, St. George has steadfastly led the way while remaining true to its roots and creating ever-more-interesting things to drink.  I'm joined by Master Distiller Lance Winters and Head Distiller Dave Smith, both long-haulers at St. George (Lance from 1997 and Dave from 2005) who have introduced the world to St. George Spirits' Baller American Single Malt, NOLA Coffee Liqueur, and Bruto Americano, among many many others. The Bruto, by the way, has become my go-to aperitif, replacing Campari and Aperol with a more intense flavor and body.  More than anything, this interview delves into the ethos and process of St. George, how this continuously innovative distillery both keeps up with the times and leads by example. They may not be the biggest, but there's no doubt they are one of the most important. Lance and Dave are determined - and I use that word with emphasis - to make what they like, bring the drinker to them, and expand the definition of what American distilleries can do. Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Lance and Dave for entering the Whiskey Ring!   Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are 2 more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Lost Lantern Whiskey Lost Lantern Whiskey Website Lost Lantern Whiskey on Instagram Lost Lantern Whiskey on Facebook

Shining A Light On The Independent Spirit   Lost Lantern - Adam, Nora, and their team - are bar none the best independent bottler of American whiskey working today. They have a serious claim to my favorite IB period. More than anything, you know that they've done the work and can talk about the barrels, brands, and distilleries they choose to work with, which for whiskey nerds like I (and probably you!) is just *chef's kiss*.    Join me as I sit down with Nora and Adam from Lost Lantern Whiskey to uncover the magic behind their Summer of Bourbon 2 series. We'll explore the rich tapestry of nine distinct bourbon releases, each chosen from twelve distilleries across twelve states, including the rare gems from a ghost distillery in Mississippi. Discover what makes this year's collection a step up from last year's and hear about the serendipitous journey that led them to acquiring Rich Grain Distilling's bourbon stocks. Ever wondered how the Gulf Coast climate impacts the flavor profile of bourbon? Nora and Adam share their groundbreaking techniques and insights, such as rebarreling bourbon into larger used casks to create flavor complexity without the tannin overload (a major sticking point that I thank them for, profusely). We'll dive into the unique qualities of Gulf Coast bourbon and why it's exclusively available through Lost Lantern's Mississippi Memory series. Additionally, you'll gain a deeper understanding of how blending bourbons from diverse distilleries across America creates a balanced and intricate final product, guided by a blend captain who ensures each batch is perfect. Curious about the challenges faced by regional distilleries and the innovative approaches they use? We'll highlight distilleries like Rock Town in Arkansas, High Wire in South Carolina, and the nuances of the Lincoln County Process in Tennessee whiskey at Lieper's Fork. Listen as we compare the unique methods, ingredients, and local climates that shape these exceptional bourbons. Plus, get a behind-the-scenes look at how Lost Lantern selects and maintains high standards for their releases, ensuring that each bottle tells a story and captures the essence of its origins. Don't miss this journey through the evolving landscape of American bourbon. There's also a unique discount code, one use only without any product limits, just for listeners of the Whiskey Ring Podcast!   Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Nora and Adam for re-entering the Whiskey Ring!   Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are 2 more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Lost Lantern Whiskey Lost Lantern Whiskey Website Lost Lantern Whiskey on Instagram Lost Lantern Whiskey on Facebook

Gin, Apple Brandy, Whiskey...and Pechuga?   What if participating in local farmer's markets could boost your brand more than major media coverage? In the latest episode, I sit down with Max Lents, the passionate founder and CEO of Baltimore Spirits Company. Max takes us through his journey of reviving Maryland rye whiskey, from the company's birth in 2013 to its first spirit release in 2015. Emphasizing the power of community engagement and grassroots marketing in creating authentic customer connections, Baltimore Spirits Company weaves storytelling and tradition into each bottle, making a significant mark on the craft distilling scene.   We also dive deep into the other spirits being produced by BSC, including a Szechuan gin and a Pechuga, which I had heard of maybe once and never actually tried. Maryland - and Baltimore - is more than just rye country. It's apple brandy, gin, and spirits of all kinds.    You'll also hear about the unique methods that set Baltimore Spirits Company apart, such as pot distillation, open wooden vat fermenters, and a distinctive mash bill with dual yeast strains. We also discuss the critical contributions of Eli (originally from Peabody Heights Brewery), whose expertise in industrial-scale fermentation has been a game-changer.   From the release of Epoch Rye to innovative creations like Fumas Pumila, Max shares the meticulous process and passion behind each spirit, ensuring a product that stands out in the market. Finally, Max discusses the collaborative spirit within the Union Collective and the challenges and successes of expanding production. He and his partners have the long-term vision of becoming the premier rye whiskey distillery on the East Coast and the formation of the Maryland Distillers Guild.   Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Max for entering the Whiskey Ring!   Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are 2 more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Baltimore Spirits Company Baltimore Spirits Company Website Baltimore Spirits Company Instagram Baltimore Spirits Company Facebook

From Rye to Armagnac: Pete Lynch's Story  In the second part to our Bhakta Sessions series as we welcome the exceptional Pete Lynch, the master blender for Bhakta Spirits. With a career that kick-started under the legendary Dave Pickerel at Whistlepig, Pete's journey in the whiskey and armagnac world is nothing short of inspiring. We delve into his deep passion for rye whiskey, the pivotal role of sensory memory in tasting, and his current intriguing project involving a 2012 vintage Armagnac. Pete's insights into the art of blending whiskey offer a masterclass in balancing flavors and honoring the heritage of historic spirits. In our final chapter, we explore the rich history and cultural significance of spirits, particularly focusing on Armagnac. Pete and I reflect on the resilience and dedication of producers through historical adversities, and the romanticism of savoring vintage spirits. We also discuss the future of mentorship in the craft spirits industry, emphasizing innovation and the nurturing of independent thinkers. Cheers to another insightful session!   Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Pete for entering the Whiskey Ring!   Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are 2-3 more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Bhakta Spirits Bhakta Spirits Website Bhakta Spirits Instagram Bhakta Spirits Facebook Bhakta Spirits YouTube Bhakta Spirits LinkedIn

Embracing Your Heritage: Ken Schreiner's Journey from Real Estate to Artisanal Whiskey and Gin In this riveting episode, we explore Ken Schreiner's inspiring transition from a religious upbringing that shunned alcohol to reviving his family's historic whiskey brand. Ken discusses cherished old distilling notebooks as he navigates the labyrinth of "labeling hell" to breathe new life into spirits named after his great-great-grandfather AJ Schreiner, a master distiller from Louisville, Kentucky, and how these historical roots inspired him to embrace his heritage. We delve into the Prohibition era, uncovering the gritty realities of both legal and illicit distilling. Ken offers fascinating insights into dating historical records, maintaining proprietary yeast strains, and understanding distillation techniques from the late 19th to early 20th centuries. Alongside master distiller Alan Bishop (a great friend of the podcast!), Ken's transition from real estate to whiskey-making unfolds as a passionate pursuit infused with historical accuracy and artisanal craftsmanship. His journey emphasizes the importance of honesty in the whiskey industry, even when faced with the many challenges of recreating a bygone era. Beyond the craft of whiskey, Ken shares his poignant personal story of dealing with PTSD from his time in emergency services. Whiskey became more than a passion; like it was for me, for him, it became a grounding activity that helped him navigate mental health challenges. Through this episode, we advocate for responsible consumption and mental health support for first responders and high-stress professions. Stay tuned to hear about Ken's plans for the future of AJ Schreiner Spirits, including a new/old gin distillation technique that blends tradition with modern craft. This episode is a heartfelt blend of history, authenticity, and personal connection, celebrating the rich legacy of the Schreiner family spirits. Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Ken for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are 2-3 more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  AJ Schreiner Spirits AJ Schreiner Spirits Website AJ Schreiner Spirits Instagram AJ Schreiner Spirits Facebook

Reviving The Cabrach: The Whiskey-Powered Renaissance of a Storied Scottish Region Imagine a region renowned for its whisky, considered a birthplace of it, with quality competing with big, old names like Glenlivet and Glenfarclas. Then imagine this region, once a thriving center of production, loses its population, falling below 100 people for an entire region, its legal and illicit distilling history lost to the landscape.  This is The Cabrach, a beautiful space between Aberdeenshire, Speyside, and Dufftown in the north of Scotland. Since 2013, The Cabrach Trust has been reviving the region's storied history. From the very beginning, that whisky history was part and parcel of the revitalization, and a distillery was always in the cards. Now, that part of the dream is being realized.   Listen to my interview with The Cabrach Trust Chief Executive Jonathan Christie to hear how detailed research and archaeological efforts are bringing to light the region's rich history of illicit whisky production. Understand why establishing a new distillery is not just about whiskey but also about fostering economic regeneration, preserving traditional methods, and creating sustainable practices that harmonize with the natural environment. Finally, immerse yourself in the broader community efforts that make this project truly unique. From nature trails and rural skills workshops to the intriguing idea of aging whiskey casks in a Cold War-era bunker, this episode paints a vivid picture of the blend of tradition and creativity driving Cabrach's revitalization. Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Jonathan for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are 2-3 more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  The Cabrach Trust The Cabrach Trust Website The Cabrach Trust Instagram The Cabrach Trust Facebook The Cabrach Trust Twiiter/X The Cabrach Trust LinkedIn The Cabrach Distillery The Cabrach Distillery Website The Cabrach Distillery Instagram The Cabrach Distillery Facebook The Cabrach Distillery Twiiter/X The Cabrach Distillery LinkedIn

Journey Through Time: JP's Adventures in the Spirits Industry and the Art of Armagnac What happens when you drive a German Shepherd and a minivan from Florida to Vermont for an internship that changes your life? My guest, Johnathan Page, fondly known as JP and the Minister of Time at Bhakta Spirits, shares his serendipitous journey into the spirits industry. Starting as an intern at Whistlepig in 2017, JP's story is filled with unexpected twists and turns riding shotgun with Raj Bhakta, the founder of Whistlepig and Bhakta Spirits and a force of nature in the spirits world.  JP was alongside Raj as he left Whistlepig, as he took time to find his next venture, and as he discovered the wonders of armagnac. Directing Raj and his partner Leo Gibson from place to place around Tenareze (including some good-natured joking), JP went from a trusted associate to a key figure in Bhakta Spirits' development. He - by his own admission - didn't see himself in the spirits industry. Yet hearing him talk both in person and in this interview, the passion shines. He loves telling stories and meeting new people, introducing them to spirits they never thought they'd try let alone hear about. Plus, his stories about Raj are chef's kiss.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to JP for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are 2-3 more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Bhakta Spirits Bhakta Spirits Website Bhakta Spirits Instagram Bhakta Spirits Facebook Bhakta Spirits YouTube Bhakta Spirits LinkedIn

From Empire Rye to Whiskeyland: The Balas Brothers' Journey in Storytelling and Whiskey What is Whiskeyland? More importantly, what is your Whiskeyland? Is it visiting an up-and-coming blending house like Pursuit Spirits? Reviving a long-lost rye species (Rosen rye) with Mammoth? Representing the other Indiana distilleries with Hard Truth? Or just sipping with friends and family, whether your collection is 5 bottles or 500.  Ryan and Alec Balas - who also made an incredible film on Empire Rye called Fire, Water, & Grain - join me to discuss the making of this new series. Whiskeyland Batch 1 is now out in its entirety, available on YouTube and featuring many distilleries, producers, and chefs whose stories are whiskey and whose whiskies are stories.  Drawing inspiration from Anthony Bourdain to look at life through the lens of food and drink, Whiskeyland is a new look at the stories of people in the whiskey and how the strands of family and friends intertwine when a passion is discovered. Reviewing their journey from acting and editing to independent filmmaking (and, yes, content, though Ryan hates that word), we go through what drives the Balas Brothers to create and tell stories, the process of choosing which stories to feature and in which order, and why positive counter-programming can be an antidote to the ills and negativity we see every day.  Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan, New York - anywhere can be your Whiskeyland.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Ryan and Alec for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are 2-3 more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  The Balas Brothers The Balas Brothers Website The Balas Brothers Instagram Whiskeyland TV

Music, Mashing, and Medals - The Whiskey Authority in Texas Heather Greene is an undeniable superstar of the whiskey world. From her start with the Flatiron Room in New York City to working with William Grant & Sons to writing Whiskey Distilled, Heather has raced up the ranks of distillers and whiskey wunderkinds. Now the CEO of Milam & Greene Whiskey in Blanco, Texas, Heather joined me to talk about, well, many things other than Milam & Greene (for more about the brand itself, check out my episode with Blair Ault). Heather is a businesswoman with roots in music and whose tastes are as eclectic as they get. We chat about the merits of different award shows, the tasting and sensory experiences that changed her process, the mentorship she's received from Dr. Rachel Barrie, and so much more in this exciting, fast-paced interview.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Heather for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are 2-3 more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Heather Greene Heather Greene Website Heather Greene Instagram Heather Greene Facebook Heather Greene LinkedIn

Revolutionary. Innovative. Technologically Unparalleled. Big.  Join me for an insightful conversation with David Mandell as we discuss the exciting launch of Whiskey House of Kentucky. We explore the expansive 176-acre facility in Elizabethtown, designed for custom whiskey production with advanced technological setups. David shares the ambitious 10-year plan, highlighting the transformational impact and innovative nature of the project, emphasizing the importance of community support and the strategic decision to focus on custom contract customers, drawing from previous experiences at Bardstown Bourbon Company. From the flexible facility design to strong partnerships and a specialized workforce, we discuss the blueprint for achieving unparalleled efficiency and customer satisfaction. Hear about their selective partnership approach, aimed at collaborating with established brands and promising startups alike, ensuring high-quality production. All this while purpose-building a facility that isn't for public consumption in the heart of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. This is a totally new idea. It's mad. It's massive. And I have no doubt it's going to work.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to David for returning to the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are 2-3 more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Whiskey House of Kentucky Whiskey House of Kentucky Website Whiskey House of Kentucky LinkedIn

Sustainability in Scotch with Annabel Thomas Join us as we explore the fascinating world of sustainable Scotch whisky with Annabel Thomas, the founder of Nc'nean Distillery. In this episode, Annabel takes us on her journey from the corporate world to the remote west coast of Scotland, where her family's farm became the birthplace of a visionary, sustainability-focused line of whisky. Hear about the pivotal moments that inspired her to transition from strategy consulting to whisky distilling, including a life-changing sabbatical and an enlightening trip to Islay that sparked her passion for creating an eco-friendly and innovative distillery. We delve into the unique aspects of Nc'nean's sustainability initiatives, from using organic barley to experimenting with different yeasts and fermentation techniques. Annabel shares insights on the challenges and benefits of organic farming practices, and how these choices align with her vision for a responsible and forward-thinking business. Listen as she recounts the influence of industry legends like Jim Swan and the importance of maintaining traditional craftsmanship while embracing modern innovations. Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Annabel for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are 2-3 more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Nc'nean Distillery Nc'nean Distillery Website Nc'nean Distillery Instagram Nc'nean Distillery Facebook Nc'nean Distillery LinkedIn Nc'nean Distillery YouTube

Whisky Secrets from Cumbria: A Journey with Kirsty Taylor   What makes English whisky stand out in a crowded global market? Kirsty Taylor, the commercial director at the Lakes Distillery, shares the secrets behind their award-winning single malts and the innovative spirit driving England's whisky renaissance. We delve into the fascinating journey of the Lakes Distillery over the past decade, uncovering how they've managed to produce some of the world's best whiskies while maintaining a low media profile. Kirsty also sheds light on the broader English whisky industry, revealing how its bold new approaches are shaking up traditional notions of what whisky can be. Join us as we explore the unique approaches of English whisky makers, free from the constraints of historical traditions. From the sophisticated sherry-matured style of the Whisky Makers Reserve series to the innovative maturation techniques inspired by the cognac industry, we break down how distilleries like the Lakes are redefining excellence. You'll hear about the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each bottle, the strategic decisions behind their numbered bottlings, and the rich, complex flavors that set their spirits apart from the rest. We also venture into the challenges and triumphs of being part of this emerging whisky region. Discover how the Lakes Distillery has become an economic cornerstone for its rural community and the exciting journey of Sarah Burgess, a seasoned Scotch whiskey expert, as she transitions into this new world. From unique wood types and yeast strains to the creative freedom and storytelling that define English whisky, this episode is packed with engaging insights and intriguing stories. Tune in for an in-depth look at what makes English whisky a rising star on the global stage. Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Kirsty for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are 2-3 more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  The Lakes Distillery The Lakes Distillery Website The Lakes Distillery Instagram The Lakes Distillery Facebook The Lakes Distillery LinkedIn

The Oldest Independent Bottlers and a Brand New Scottish Distillery   Are you fascinated by the rich history of whisky and the art of independent bottling? Join me as I welcome esteemed friend Gary Pickard, Northeast Regional Manager of Pacific Edge Wine and Spirits. Gary takes us on a captivating journey through the histories of two iconic independent bottlers, William Cadenheads and AD Rattray. From George Duncan's founding of William Cadenheads in 1842 to Robert W. Duthie's tragic end and the company's resilience through decades of challenges, this episode is packed with intriguing insights and personal anecdotes from visits to Cadenheads boutique stores in London and Edinburgh.   As we continue, we explore the storied legacy of Campbeltown whiskies and the remarkable survival of distilleries like Springbank and Glen Scotia. Gary shares his deep knowledge of AD Rattray, tracing its evolution from Andrew Dewar Rattray's grocery store in 1868 to its current state under Tim Morrison's leadership. We delve into the Morrison family's significant impact on the whisky industry, including their acquisitions of Bowmore, Glengarry, and Auchentoshan, now under Suntory's ownership. This episode underscores the critical role independent bottlers play in bringing the hidden gems of lesser-known distilleries to light.   Finally, we unravel the complexities of Islay whiskies, discussing the distinctive features of renowned distilleries like Bowmore, Lagavulin, and Bruichladdich. We explore the cultural contrasts between Japanese and Anglo-American approaches to whisky production and the challenges faced during Suntory's acquisition of Beam. Additionally, we touch on the resurgence of distilleries within Glasgow's city limits, spotlighting the modern marvel that is Clydeside Distillery. This episode is a rich tapestry of whisky history, culture, and the intricate world of independent bottling that any whisky enthusiast won't want to miss.   Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Gary for entering the Whiskey Ring! Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!  BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are 2-3 more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  William Cadenhead's William Cadenhead's Website William Cadenhead's Instagram William Cadenhead's Facebook William Cadenhead's LinkedIn A.D. Rattray A.D. Rattray Website A.D. Rattray Instagram A.D. Rattray Facebook Clydeside Distillery Clydeside Distillery Website Clydeside Distillery Instagram Clydeside Distillery Facebook Clydeside Distillery LinkedIn

From Wall Street to Whiskey: The Revival of Hudson House Distillery Get ready for an inspiring tale of resilience, determination, and the unyielding spirit of entrepreneurship! In our latest episode, I sit down with Charles Ferri, the co-founder and CEO of Hudson House Distillery. Charles shares his incredible journey from the high-flying world of Wall Street to the picturesque Hudson Valley, where he faced and overcame countless challenges to build a world-class distillery.

Barley, Fortnum & Mason, and a 10th Anniversary Celebration What if the land itself could tell the story of your whiskey? This part-two episode brings you the conclusion of our in-depth conversation with Dan Szor, founder and former CEO of Cotswolds Distilling, as he reveals how the unique terroir of the Cotswolds shapes their exceptional spirits. We draw parallels with the Bruichladdich model and discuss how the natural beauty and traditional malting barley of this region contribute to creating a whiskey that truly embodies its essence. Balancing heritage and modernity, we delve into the complexities of managing barley varieties. Dan shares the success and challenges of using heritage barley like Plumage Archer and the economic realities of sourcing barley for production. Listen as we discuss the vital role of the local community in supporting the distillery and the intricate dance between maintaining product consistency and embracing agricultural heritage. From Parisian adventures to impactful partnerships, we celebrate the distillery's journey and its innovative spirit. Learn about the significance of high-quality wood in whiskey aging, and the influence of industry veterans like Jim Swan. Reflecting on the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dan shares market adaptations, production challenges, and future growth potential. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of building a lasting legacy in the distillery business, culminating in an invitation to join the 10th-anniversary celebration of Cotswolds Distilling. Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Dan for entering the Whiskey Ring! Key Highlights: The influence of Cotswolds' natural beauty and traditional malting barley on their whiskey Managing heritage barley varieties and economic realities of whiskey production The journey of maturation processes and their impact on whiskey profiles Collaboration with Fortnum & Mason and the significance of high-quality wood in aging Adaptations and growth during the COVID-19 pandemic Celebrating a decade of Cotswolds Distilling's achievements _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are 2-3 more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Cotswolds Distillery Cotswolds Distillery Website Cotswolds Distillery Instagram Cotswolds Distillery Facebook Cotswolds Distillery on Twitter/X Cotswolds Distillery on YouTube Cotswolds Distillery on LinkedIn Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram

An Expat, Jim Swan, and Outstanding Natural Beauty Dan Szor is an expat, a native of New York City who has found a permanent home in the Cotswolds of England, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with rolling hills, flowers, and fruits. With a background in finance, Dan found whisky as a side passion, one he converted into a full-time role in the early 2010s by starting the Cotswolds Distillery.  In Part 1 of our conversation, Dan and I discuss his inspirations - the hedonistic time in Paris getting exposed to whisky through the Scotch Malt Whisky Society and La Maison du Whisky, the barley revelation, and meeting Jim McEwan, that wizard of whisky whose time at Bruichladdich inspired Dan long before a distillery was in the cards.  There's a lot to talk about on the Cotswolds, so we'll have a part two coming out next week to talk more about the distillery itself and the truly excellent single malts coming out.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Dan for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are 2-3 more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Cotswolds Distillery Cotswolds Distillery Website Cotswolds Distillery Instagram Cotswolds Distillery Facebook Cotswolds Distillery on Twitter/X Cotswolds Distillery on YouTube Cotswolds Distillery on LinkedIn Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS BAXUS Website BAXUS on Instagram BAXUS on Facebook BAXUS on Twitter/X BAXUS on LinkedIn Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram

The Wren Boy in the West Sitting on the farthest spit of peninsula in Europe, Dingle Distillery is the first craft distillery in Ireland post-consolidation. From its place on the Wild Atlantic Way, Dingle set forth the path for the dozens of Irish distilleries that followed in the last decade-plus.  Managing Director and son of the founder Elliot Hughes joins me to talk through Dingle's history and four expressions: Dingle Single Malt, Samhain, Bealtaine, and La Le Bride. Embracing the culture of their (and County Kerry's) Gaeltacht region, Dingle leans heavily into Celtic lore (try pronouncing the distillery's Gaelic name...I'll wait).  We also talk about the significance of being the first craft distillery to open, joining the long-standing Midleton, Bushmills, and Cooley distilleries that pumped out all the Irish whiskey we drank for decades. It's more than just being the first, it's about setting an example, and they did.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Elliot for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are 2-3 more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Dingle Distillery Dingle Distillery Website Dingle Distillery Instagram Dingle Distillery Facebook Reviews Dingle Distillery Single Malt Irish Whiskey Review Dingle Distillery Samhain Single Malt Irish Whiskey Review Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram

White Corn + Amish Dairy Farm = Kentucky Craft On my first trip to Kentucky in 2022, I needed one more distillery to visit before heading down to Nashville for the Tennessee portion of my trip. I could've gone to a heritage distillery - still haven't been to Jim Beam or Buffalo Trace - but instead, I took a chance on a small distillery in Christian County near the state line: MB Roland.  I got to go on the first-ever Distiller's tour, led by Paul, where we got to fill our own bottles right out of the casks. From there, we went into a makeshift bar under the beautiful visitor's center and sampled many, many more products, from a rye and a single malt to Pink Lemonade Moonshine, a favorite of bachelorette parties (don't knock it - besides being a great revenue source, it does actually taste great!).  What became clear was that this small distillery, founded by a husband and wife team in 2009 in the earliest days of craft distilling in the backyard of the biggest bourbon producers in the world, was trying to do something different. Spirits using local white corn, experimental mashbills, playing around with cask sizes (though most are 53 gallons), and most of all doing what they wanted.  It's a great place to visit with many different whiskies and spirits to try. Take the drive off the beaten path, it's worth it.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Paul for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are 2-3 more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  MB Roland Distillery MB Roland Distillery Website MB Roland Distillery Instagram MB Roland Distillery Facebook MB Roland Distillery Twitter Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram

Square Stills, Moonshine, and Two Total Eclipses Ever seen a square pot still? No? Me neither. Apparently, for moonshiners in the Land Between the Rivers (now Land Between the Lakes) region, square stills were all the rage - they could be loaded into the back of a pickup truck, easily disassembled, and still put out high quality moonshine. And nobody did it better than Arlen Jones, better known as "Casey" because he only sold moonshine by the case.  Casey ended up in prison twice, the final time leading to him getting out of the still-making business for good. Fast forward a few decades, and in a truly ironic twist, the government came calling for him to make one more still (a working one, no less!) for the Land Between the Lakes visitors center - and he did. That still stands today in the Casey Jones Distillery. When Casey's grandson, AJ, discovered his family's history (it was a poorly held secret), he decided to get into the game himself, too. A decade or so later, they have four mashbills of whiskey, are growing rapidly, and are the official bourbon of not one but TWO eclipses (they were in the line of totality for the 2017 solar eclipse and just outside of it for the April 2024 one).  Finally, they're also members of the State Line Trail with MB Roland in Kentucky and Old Glory Distilling in Tennessee - look for my episode with Paul at MB Roland next week! Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Cody for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring There are 2-3 more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Casey Jones Distillery Casey Jones Distillery Website Casey Jones Distillery Instagram Casey Jones Distillery Facebook Casey Jones Distillery Twitter Casey Jones Distillery YouTube Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram

A Navy Strength Rebrand...And a Rye??? Old Line Spirits returns with some new looks! Since Mark and Old Line Spirits were last on the podcast back in Episode 54, they've made several changes to their brand. An updated label, a bumped-up proof (86 to 95) for the core single malt, and hints of a rye coming sometime in 2024... Mark and Arch are two Navy buddies who founded Old Line in Baltimore, playing into the rise of American Single Malt. This was one of my favorite distillery visits, and if you find yourself in the DMV area, definitely hit them up for a tour and tasting! Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Mark for returning to the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Old Line Spirits Old Line Spirits Website Old Line Spirits Instagram Old Line Spirits Facebook Old Line Spirits Twitter Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram

A Master Distiller Who's Earned His Stripes Brian Sprance is New Riff's new master distiller! Aside from some good-natured ribbing from his colleagues, though, you would never know it.  New Riff named Brian Master Distiller after getting the blessing from Ebersold and co-founders Ken Lewis and Jay Erisman. Ten years after he started, he is now at the top.  Brian has been with New Riff since before they started producing, joining in 2013 during the final phase of installation. He's been mentored by some of the best in the industry, including Larry Ebersold of Seagram's/LDI/MGP. His story is exactly what you want in a master distiller - start at the bottom, learn every nook and cranny of the distillery, go through the expansions and changes, ultimately learning the ropes on the job at a single place.  His title is a recognition of the work he's put in - remember, this is a guy who ended up at a distillery because he had a non-compete that blocked him from joining a brewery, and had never distilled before. We as consumers are fortunate that we don't have to wait to taste his mark on the product - it's been there all along.  Whether it's playing with different grains, different malting levels, using peated casks, or sharing those whiskies with legends of the industry (Jim McEwan and John Glaser, anyone?), Brian knows how the New Riff plant will react. He shares his story, how he's grown, and - in my favorite question of the interview - whether he would accept the title of Master Distiller if he joined another distillery.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Brian for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  New Riff Distillery New Riff Distillery Website New Riff Distillery on Instagram New Riff Distillery on Facebook New Riff Distillery on Twitter New Riff Distillery on YouTube Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram

A Rooster, A Family, and Memphis Barbecue Old Dominick isn't the oldest distillery in Tennessee, but it's no spring chicken either. The brand itself - including a stint as a whiskey blending house - goes back to 1866, the same year a Mr. Jasper "Jack" Daniel was setting up his own stillhouse a few hours east.  158 years later, D. Canale & Co. no longer has a food distribution business, but they do have a thriving distillery. Overseen by their energetic, Kentucky-born Master Distiller Alex Castle, Old Dominick has risen to quickly be one of Tennessee's premier craft distilleries.  Shortly after our interview, Alex announced that she was leaving Old Dominick for her next adventure. In the eight years she spent there, the distillery became a go-to destination in Memphis, putting out world-class Tennessee Whiskey as well as sourced products under their Huling Station line (an homage to the station near which the original D. Canale was based).  The bottom line is this: Old Dominick will of course miss Alex, and she has left her founding imprimatur on the entire portfolio. It is also in a fantastic position to go forward into its next chapter.  Congratulations to Alex on her next move, and best wishes to Old Dominick as they move forward - the great future is just beginning, and this is a distillery you need to watch and visit next time you're craving barbecue.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Alex for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Old Dominick Distillery Old Dominick Distillery Website Old Dominick Distillery on Instagram Old Dominick Distillery on Facebook Old Dominick Distillery on Twitter Old Dominick Distillery on YouTube Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram

Exploring French and American Oak Whiskey Jypsi's newest release - Explorer - seeks to show how the core identities of French and American oak species affect flavor in whiskey. They take the consumer on a world tour, stopping both in Eric Church's backyard (North Carolinian American white oak near to where Church grew up) and French oak from the Tronçais forest.  Neither wood is entirely new to American whiskey drinkers (especially white oak...it's what almost everyone uses as a new cask, right?), and French oak has been used enough to have a passing familiarity. The difference here is how Ari and the Whiskey Jypsi team use the wood - and, most importantly, the use of new French oak rather than ex-wine casks or other used cooperage. By toasting and charring staves and inserting them to finish the whiskey - using the entirety of the stave, not just the thin layer that's been charred on the inside of a cask - much more flavor is extracted.  Note: I said flavor. Not oakiness. For all the wood exploration in this release, woodiness and tannins are not among the explorations. And thank heavens for that.  The story is intriguing - blend the influence of Tronçais forest's wood, formerly overseen by the Duke of Bourbon and the origin point for the troubadour tradition, with American oak from the home of the country artist behind the blend. As a plus, at least in media kits, we got small pieces of each wood type to smell and see, a sensory experience that greatly helped me in discerning which note was from which wood.  Ultimately, though, it comes down to the product at hand. After all, anyone can write a good story - it takes skill to translate that through the art of blending into a good whiskey. Enter: Ari Sussman, frequent friend of the podcast and all-around good source of whiskey knowledge.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Ari for returning to the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Whiskey JYPSI Whiskey JYPSI Website Whiskey JYPSI on Instagram Whiskey JYPSI on Facebook Whiskey JYPSI on Twitter Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram

Pioneering Indian Single Malt Raj's return brings news about Amrut, the king of Indian Single Malt. It is no longer the only Indian Single Malt on the market like it was in 2004, but neither has Amrut been sitting on its laurels.  With Ashok Chokalingham at the helm as head distiller - a post he gained after many years in sales and production - Amrut is promoting the idea of Indian Single Malt while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of what that can mean.  With the four expressions I tried with Raj, each were an experiment. The Single Malts of India Kurinji was distilled at a different Indian distillery but aged entirely at Amrut's warehouses in Bangalore, 3000' above sea level with relatively low humidity. What would that whisky have tasted like at sea level? At its home distillery? Who knows - all I know is that it tastes damn good.  The Triparva is a triple-distilled single malt, echoing the butteriness and spice from Irish whiskies while staying true to the core Amrut profile (probably something to do with the 6-row instead of 2-row barley). The rye is a 100% malted rye, using Scandinavian grain but otherwise running it like they would a "normal" barley-based single malt; the spicy and herbaceous rye comes out like a custard, rounded and polished while still letting you know it's a rye.  Finally, the Naarangi, a whisky that uses sherry casks that have been seasoned for multiple years with locally grown oranges that give a distinctly tart flavor to cut through the sherry sweetness.  The sad news is that for two of the Amruts - the Rye and the Triparva - this is the last time they will be produced and released. The Naarangi is up in the air, but it won't be a regular release. Ashok has created over 40 different varieties of single malt based on flavors, casks, grains, and interplays between those three - there will always be more Amrut, but not always more of those releases. So grab them before they're gone (and if you listen to the episode and still don't want them, buy one for a friend).  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Raj for returning to the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Amrut Indian Single Malt Amrut Indian Single Malt Website Amrut Indian Single Malt on Instagram Amrut Indian Single Malt on Facebook Amrut Indian Single Malt on Twitter/X Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, ImpEx Beverages https://impexbev.com ImpEx on Instagram ImpEx on Facebook ImpEx on Twitter

The Story is the Story I have a general rule when given the opportunity to interview NDPs on the podcast - they must do something with the whiskey other than buying stock and slapping their own label on it. Otherwise, how many times can you talk about the same MGP bourbon or rye? (Yes, I know there are other sources now, but the point remains).  With Filmland Spirits, they are doing some of their own blending, proofing, and - down the line - finishing. So right away they've cleared the first hurdle. Once you clear that, you have to be interesting - and Troy and Charlie have created that in spades.  With each release from Filmland, such as Ryes of the Robots and Moonlight Mayhem, a story is created. In classic b-movie style with horror, campiness, supernatural creatures, there are entire trailers, storyboards, posters, and more. Basically all that's missing is an actual movie being produced. By doing this, Filmland Spirits does what we need most in bourbon right now: they have fun. These guys love what they're doing. They love their craft and how they can apply their years of screenwriting to another passion. Easter eggs are hidden in each label and poster, and samples are sent with thought-out names rather than "barrel #xxx".  Then, there's Town at the End of Tomorrow - a 9YO Kentucky Bourbon that was flat-out excellent when I tried it at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival. Definitely worth checking out (if you can still find it!). Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Troy and Charlie for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Filmland Spirits Filmland Spirits Website Filmland Spirits on Instagram Filmland Spirits on Facebook Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, ImpEx Beverages https://impexbev.com ImpEx on Instagram ImpEx on Facebook ImpEx on Twitter

From Great Brewing Comes Great Distilling Copperworks Distilling is making whiskey from grain. Simple, right? I mean, from a legal sense, that's quite literally what every other whiskey-maker is doing.  That's where the similarities end. Jason Parker, co-founder and longtime brewer, is experimenting with barley in ways that are different not only from other distillers but singularly unique from release to release.  I first got to try Copperworks from our friends at Lost Lantern, who did a single malt finished in sloe gin that was just fantastic. With Jason, I tried four products - Releases 49 + 50, two variants of Fritz Malt (Pale and Vienna), a peated edition, and another barley variety that showcased the care Jeff and Jason have for the grain.  Another of my favorite distillers, Alan Bishop, says to always "respect the grain". Sometimes, people do it with the right intention but the wrong ethos. Jason and Jeff do it with every single piece thought out, every variable considered and controlled. Not every experiment works, of course, but those that do are incredible.  This is a distillery where you may not like every release (or maybe you will!), but each one is worthy of your attention. And you will, no matter what, feel the passion and intention through the grain. Respect, indeed.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Jason for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Copperworks Distilling Copperworks Distilling Website Copperworks Distilling on Instagram Copperworks Distilling on Facebook Copperworks Distilling on Twitter Copperworks Distilling on YouTube Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, ImpEx Beverages https://impexbev.com ImpEx on Instagram ImpEx on Facebook ImpEx on Twitter

The Best of the (Mid)West! The Spring 2024 Collection launches today, March 27!  We first met Lost Lantern Spirits way back in Episode 53 - they are "shining a light on the independent spirit", bringing the tradition of independent bottling (and blending!) to American whiskey.  In the two-ish years since, co-founders Nora Ganley-Roper and Adam Polonski have grown and grown, now with a physical space in Vermont and reach across the country. They've won awards, beaten distilleries at their own game (see: Balcones), and established the idea that American whiskey can be independently bottled and blended to showcase both the individual distilleries and the blending acumen of the founders.  For this episode, we explore their first-ever themed release: the Spring 2024 collection. This collection of seven spirits is all about the midwest. Starting with their Far-Flung Rye blend, incorporating ryes from Wollersheim Distillery, Middle West Spirits, Starlight Distillery, Tom's Foolery Distillery, and Cedar Ridge Distillery. All five of these distilleries - plus FEW Spirits - also have a single barrel release as part of this collection. You can grab these at lostlanternwhiskey.com starting today! I have to say, the Far-Flung Rye, Wollersheim bourbon, Tom's Foolery rye, and Cedar Ridge Wheat Whiskey were my favorites, but I encourage you to try them all. Adam and Nora know what they're doing, and each release shows that more and more.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Adam and Nora for returning to the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Lost Lantern Whiskey Lost Lantern Whiskey Website Lost Lantern Whiskey on Instagram Lost Lantern Whiskey on Facebook Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, ImpEx Beverages https://impexbev.com ImpEx on Instagram ImpEx on Facebook ImpEx on Twitter

Red, Red Wine Casks There are certain things we take for granted with whisky - American whiskey will mostly be new charred oak, Scotch will be ex-bourbon or ex-sherry, and the rest of the world will likely use ex-bourbon casks as a default for maturation. This leads to a generalization of taste, an expectation that certain flavors will always be there.  When starting Starward Whisky, one of the first Australian whisky distilleries after Lark's start in 1992, Dave Vitale wanted something different. He found a calling card in using Australian red wine barrels. Notably, these were not charred, just toasted, since they were used for wine and not spirit. The same goes for the occasional Apera (Australian sherry) cask.  The result was and is something totally new - a whisky that blended the grains of Australia with a four-seasons-per-day climate and an uncharred barrel. The results have been astounding, starting with the core Nova and Two-Fold range and continuing through single barrels and special finishes.  Starward is proud of its Australian roots, and each decision along the way has been in keeping with that at the forefront. If you get a chance to visit Melbourne, take in the incredible food scene with a glass of Starward on the side - they are truly meant to go together.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Dave for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Starward Whisky Starward Whisky Website Starward Whisky on Instagram Starward Whisky on Facebook Starward Whisky on Twitter/X Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, ImpEx Beverages https://impexbev.com ImpEx on Instagram ImpEx on Facebook ImpEx on Twitter

Uptown FUNK When you think Jamaican rum, you think funk. Funny thing is, most Jamaican rum by both volume and number of distillers is not funky.  BTW - funky is the unscientific way of saying ester content. All those fruity, dark, tropical, funky notes are esters, the interactions and transformations of acids and alcohols and aldehydes into the familiar flavor compounds we love.  Hampden Estate, however, is the funkiest of them all.  Originally built in 1753, Hampden has been producing Trelawney-style rum (named for its province in Jamaica) continuously for closer to three centuries than two. For nearly that entire history, though, they produced rum and rum extracts for other bottlers, lending their flavors to everything from blended rum to confectionary to perfumes. Had rum cake? Hampden. Rum-flavored anything? Chances are, Hampden.  After the Hussey family bought Hampden in 2009, they made the massive decision to bottle their own rum for the first time. Most of their production is still dedicated to blends and rectifiers - they're phasing out independent bottlers - and the results so far have been spectacular. In 2023, they gave the rum world a love letter with their 8 Marks Collection, to be repeated in 2024. Nerdiness abounds, with everything you could want to know about every mark in the Hampden lineup.  This was a hell of an episode, and I can't wait to do the follow-up.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Kate for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so!  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Hampden Estate Rum Hampden Estate Rum Website Hampden Estate Rum on Instagram Hampden Estate Rum on Facebook Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, ImpEx Beverages https://impexbev.com ImpEx on Instagram ImpEx on Facebook ImpEx on Twitter

“Born of the Field – Raised by the Sound” Just in time for Bottled-in-Bond month!  Long Island Spirits - Long Island's first craft distillery - is quietly leading the way in my own backyard. Situated about an hour and a half outside of NYC, LI Spirits is making field-to-glass whiskies, brandies, vodkas, and more using the local land for its grains, grapes, and potatoes (not the rum, sorry - sugar doesn't grow well here!)  I got to know LI Spirits through their Teddy Roosevelt-themed whiskies (Bull Moose Rye, Old Lion 8YO Single Barrel, and Rough Rider Bourbon). Over the past few years, they've been rebranding their whiskies to reflect the terroir of being right on Long Island Sound - and thus, Field & Sound was born. Note: Bottled-in-Bond month starts on March 1st!   Field & Sound covers the full range of whiskies, from bourbon to rye, wheat, and wheated, all bottled-in-bond. There are also special editions, such as the rum-finished bourbon finished in their own nearly eight-year-old rum casks (that rum is unlike any rum I've had, somewhere between an Agricole and a new-make Barbados) and a brandy-finished bourbon in their own brandy. The brandy - also made in-house from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes grown nearby - clocks in at a massive 166+ proof.  Long Island Spirits is the first distillery on Long Island since Prohibition. Even today, fifteen years after they've opened, there are very few spirits producers and none with the pedigree they've built. As the Roosevelt era fades and Field & Sound takes center stage, I couldn't be prouder to have this quality of spirit coming from where I grew up.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Rich for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so!  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Long Island Spirits and Field & Sound Whiskey Long Island Spirits Website Field & Sound Website Long Island Spirits on Instagram Long Island Spirits on Facebook Long Island Spirits on Twitter/X Long Island Spirits on YouTube Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, ImpEx Beverages https://impexbev.com ImpEx on Instagram ImpEx on Facebook ImpEx on Twitter

Makers of the only vodka I enjoy. And also the first rye from Scotland in 100+ years.  Arbikie Highland Estate is in the forefront of the new Scotch whisky movement. Focused on sustainability, flavor, and locality, Arbikie is betting big on the future.  They're making a single malt, but waiting 18 years to release it (some might be released early, but don't count on it). Their strawberry vodka takes nearly a year to produce from harvest to bottling. The gin is hyperlocal, with coastal elements.  The Nadar vodka is climate-positive, with the whole process removing 1.54kg of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere per bottle (through legume farming).  Kirsty also has a PhD and puts it to use in creating these releases from grain to bottle, with backing from the Stirling family who owns the farms from which the grains grow.  The Highland 1794 Rye is available in the US now, as are the gins and Nadar Vodka. The single malt we'll have to wait for - they're already halfway there.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to John for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so!  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Arbikie Highland Estate Arbikie Highland Estate Website Arbikie Highland Estate on Instagram Arbikie Highland Estate on Facebook Arbikie Highland Estate on Twitter/X Arbikie Highland Estate on YouTube Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, ImpEx Beverages https://impexbev.com ImpEx on Instagram ImpEx on Facebook ImpEx on Twitter

Peerless in the 1800s and Peerless today.  Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co., founded by Henry Kraver in the late 19th century, is in a class by itself. The lone sweet mash distiller in Louisville with the most distinctive bottle in the state, Peerless built itself back up through rye and its story.  Several years later, they're thriving. Single barrels abound of both rye and bourbon, with all the maturity you want from the oak without much of the tannin. Their bottlings are all at barrel proof, though from an entry proof of 103 (for now!) they rarely crest over 110º. Much like other low-entry-proof producers (Michter's, anyone?), these whiskies taste fantastic to a proof hound like I am even at a "lower" proof.  Why? Simple: add water at the beginning and not at the end and the water doesn't dilute the precious flavors you've built. Ellie, an engineer-turned-distiller, and John, Kentucky Peerless' national brand ambassador and single barrel specialist, join me to talk about the growth of Peerless in the heart of Louisville and the future of this already historic brand.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Ellie and John for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so!  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. Kentucky Peerless Website Kentucky Peerless on Instagram Kentucky Peerless on Facebook Kentucky Peerless on Twitter/X Kentucky Peerless on YouTube Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, ImpEx Beverages https://impexbev.com ImpEx on Instagram ImpEx on Facebook ImpEx on Twitter

Knock, knock, knocking on Heaven's Door?  I'm joined by Alex Moore, head blender for Heaven's Door to talk about their entire spirits lineup, the plan to start distilling in Kentucky, and how much of a role Bob Dylan plays in all of this (spoiler: he's actually quite involved!).  Here's an admission: I don't really know much about Bob Dylan's music. I don't know if it's not my style or I just haven't been exposed to it, but for whatever reason, it hasn't been part of my musical education. That being said, I'm impressed by the quality of blends coming out with his signature on them. The artwork is eye-catching, the blends are high quality for a reasonable price (maybe except the annual Bootlegger release), and with plans for a distillery campus to open later this year, it seems to be a decidedly un-celebrity brand, one that won't be sold off so soon. With the creativity behind it and the resources to see those ideas to fruition, I'm excited to see what the next few years have in store.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Alex for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so! Only 2 Spots Remain in the Barrel Club. If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Heaven's Door Heaven's Door Website Heaven's Door on Instagram Heaven's Door on Facebook Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, ImpEx Beverages https://impexbev.com ImpEx on Instagram ImpEx on Facebook ImpEx on Twitter

Let's start with the basics: Hard Truth is putting out some incredible ryes from Indiana. And none of it came from MGP.  There's so much more, though. Using a sweet mash technique, Hard Truth is developing ryes, bourbons, and finished whiskies, always with an eye to standing out. They've got a 325-acre property on which you can stay, taste, tour, make your own moonshine, and "get lost" adventures.  Hard Truth also puts its money where its mouth is by using local grain and honoring the farmers. It's latest endeavor partners Hard Truth with the Mellencamp family, producing four editions of the Harvest Rye to showcase the farmers' skills through the final product.  You might debate sweet vs. sour mash or what an "Indiana" rye is (there's a designation for that now, btw) but the Hard Truth is undeniable: visit and taste and you'll love what you have.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Bryan for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ Before we jump into the interview just a few quick notes: Ad-free listening is now available to $5/month patrons and above! Sign up or raise your pledge at the link below.  The first three WRP barrel picks are in! The Jack Daniel's Barrel Proof Ryes are SOLD OUT, and the Barrell Rye Finished in Armagnac Casks is now live! Patreon members get an exclusive discount for the Jack Daniel's barrels and free shipping for the Barrell pick - now's the time to up that subscription or join the Patreon if you haven't already! Our Spirits of French Lick barrel pick is done! I won't spoil the surprise, only saying it is one of only 9 or 10 barrels ever made of this whiskey (and ours will be the first to come out!) $25 members get the chance to join me on picks: one of your fellow Patreon members joined me in Lynchburg, one was on the Spirits of French Lick team, and I'll be picking one or more for the KO pick once samples come in! There are now two more spots open in the Barrel Club and 10 spots open at the $15 level for those who want to experience more of the whiskies I get to try every month (or every other month).  Join the Patreon now for early access to the barrels! If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so! Only 2 Spots Remain in the Barrel Club. The $5 tier has access to the Patreon-only segment called “Under the Influencer”, where some of your favorite YouTubers/Instagrammers/Podcasters and more join me to talk whiskey, life, and influencing. This tier will also have priority access to upcoming barrel picks and shortly will have access to ad-free episodes.  The $15 tier takes second access to the $25 tier with 10 spots divided into two: 5 for people who want to receive samples every other month, and 5 for people who want to receive them every month but in smaller numbers.  The $25 tier - for people who really want to propel the pod and website forward - will have the same benefits as the $5 tier plus right of first refusal to join me on future barrel picks, access to bottles I'm sent to taste and review, and more. Only 2 spots remain!  You can still support for as little as $1 a month if you'd like to stay up to date with these changes and news about what we've got coming up.  Finally, please do like and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you're listening - it really helps the Whiskey Ring Podcast move up the rankings.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Hard Truth Distilling Hard Truth Distilling Website Hard Truth Distilling on Instagram Hard Truth Distilling on Facebook Hard Truth Distilling on Twitter Hard Truth Distilling on YouTube Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, ImpEx Beverages https://impexbev.com ImpEx on Instagram ImpEx on Facebook ImpEx on Twitter

River Roots Barrel Company, out of Cleveland, Ohio, has been making some serious waves in the whiskey world. Their hazmat proof bottlings on Seelbach's flew off the virtual shelves, and the upcoming port barrel bourbon is on my to-do list as soon as it's live.  As always, though, there's more to the story, including partnerships with barrel brokers and celebrity chef Michael Symon. At first glance, River Roots seems like an independent bottler, but they're really doing more than that. Like Lost Lantern and some of Gene Nassif's work, they're blending, finishing, and playing with the bourbon, with great results so far.  The Cuhayoga River once caught fire - we know it, they know it - here's hoping River Roots, with the Cleveland crew, keeps catching fire as well. There's lots of good whiskey that will come from it.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Ryan for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ Before we jump into the interview just a few quick notes: Ad-free listening is now available to $5/month patrons and above! Sign up or raise your pledge at the link below.  The first three WRP barrel picks are in! The Jack Daniel's Barrel Proof Ryes are SOLD OUT, and the Barrell Rye Finished in Armagnac Casks is now live! Patreon members get an exclusive discount for the Jack Daniel's barrels and free shipping for the Barrell pick - now's the time to up that subscription or join the Patreon if you haven't already! Our Spirits of French Lick barrel pick is done! I won't spoil the surprise, only saying it is one of only 9 or 10 barrels ever made of this whiskey (and ours will be the first to come out!) $25 members get the chance to join me on picks: one of your fellow Patreon members joined me in Lynchburg, one was on the Spirits of French Lick team, and I'll be picking one or more for the KO pick once samples come in! There are now two more spots open in the Barrel Club and 10 spots open at the $15 level for those who want to experience more of the whiskies I get to try every month (or every other month).  Join the Patreon now for early access to the barrels! If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so! Only 2 Spots Remain in the Barrel Club. The $5 tier has access to the Patreon-only segment called “Under the Influencer”, where some of your favorite YouTubers/Instagrammers/Podcasters and more join me to talk whiskey, life, and influencing. This tier will also have priority access to upcoming barrel picks and shortly will have access to ad-free episodes.  The $15 tier takes second access to the $25 tier with 10 spots divided into two: 5 for people who want to receive samples every other month, and 5 for people who want to receive them every month but in smaller numbers.  The $25 tier - for people who really want to propel the pod and website forward - will have the same benefits as the $5 tier plus right of first refusal to join me on future barrel picks, access to bottles I'm sent to taste and review, and more. Only 2 spots remain!  You can still support for as little as $1 a month if you'd like to stay up to date with these changes and news about what we've got coming up.  Finally, please do like and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you're listening - it really helps the Whiskey Ring Podcast move up the rankings.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  River Roots Barrel Company River Roots Barrel Company Website River Roots Barrel Company on Instagram River Roots Barrel Company on Facebook Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, ImpEx Beverages https://impexbev.com ImpEx on Instagram ImpEx on Facebook ImpEx on Twitter

Nelson's Green Brier Distillery - NGB for short - has been around for quite a while. It's older than Jack and George, and at one time produced more than both of those by several magnitudes. And then, like so many others (and unlike its younger peers), Prohibition put an end to Charles Nelson's distillery, which his wife Louisa led for 18 years after his passing and until statewide Prohibition in 1909.  NGB was then lost to history and nature for around 90 years. Then, by a fluke, Andy, Charles, and their dad went to a butcher. That butcher...well, you'll hear the story in the episode.  Today, Nelson's is quickly becoming a go-to spot in Nashville and a fast-rising Tennessee Whiskey. After touring the facility and trying some of their whiskies, it's clear they're earning the legacy of DSP-5. Gone are the days when Belle Meade was the flagship, sourced while their own whiskies were aging. Now, Nelson's Green Brier Tennessee Whiskey and the Nelson Bros. line are taking center stage.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Andy for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ Before we jump into the interview just a few quick notes: Ad-free listening is now available to $5/month patrons and above! Sign up or raise your pledge at the link below.  The first three WRP barrel picks are in! The Jack Daniel's Barrel Proof Ryes are SOLD OUT, and the Barrell Rye Finished in Armagnac Casks is now live! Patreon members get an exclusive discount for the Jack Daniel's barrels and free shipping for the Barrell pick - now's the time to up that subscription or join the Patreon if you haven't already! Our Spirits of French Lick barrel pick is done! I won't spoil the surprise, only saying it is one of only 9 or 10 barrels ever made of this whiskey (and ours will be the first to come out!) $25 members get the chance to join me on picks: one of your fellow Patreon members joined me in Lynchburg, one was on the Spirits of French Lick team, and I'll be picking one or more for the KO pick once samples come in! There are now two more spots open in the Barrel Club and 10 spots open at the $15 level for those who want to experience more of the whiskies I get to try every month (or every other month).  Join the Patreon now for early access to the barrels! If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so! Only 2 Spots Remain in the Barrel Club. The $5 tier has access to the Patreon-only segment called “Under the Influencer”, where some of your favorite YouTubers/Instagrammers/Podcasters and more join me to talk whiskey, life, and influencing. This tier will also have priority access to upcoming barrel picks and shortly will have access to ad-free episodes.  The $15 tier takes second access to the $25 tier with 10 spots divided into two: 5 for people who want to receive samples every other month, and 5 for people who want to receive them every month but in smaller numbers.  The $25 tier - for people who really want to propel the pod and website forward - will have the same benefits as the $5 tier plus right of first refusal to join me on future barrel picks, access to bottles I'm sent to taste and review, and more. Only 2 spots remain!  You can still support for as little as $1 a month if you'd like to stay up to date with these changes and news about what we've got coming up.  Finally, please do like and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you're listening - it really helps the Whiskey Ring Podcast move up the rankings.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Nelson's Green Brier Distillery Nelson's Green Brier Distillery Website Nelson's Green Brier Distillery on Instagram Nelson's Green Brier Distillery on Facebook Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, ImpEx Beverages https://impexbev.com ImpEx on Instagram ImpEx on Facebook ImpEx on Twitter

A Boot Hill is a burial ground for the unclaimed, the poorest, and those hanged for misdeeds. For some, a Boot Hill was necessary - it got them the first few steps to heaven. And Dodge City, the fabled town of the old west, has the original Boot Hill.  Boot Hill Distillery isn't located on top of the hill, exactly (it's quite close), but it is built on those stories. Images of Wyatt Earp and other famous lawmen and outlaws grace their bottles while the whiskies are made with grains grown as close nearby as possible.  The brand is, after nearly a decade, still relatively young. Its whiskies are maturing, and its focus on wheat - the staple crop of Kansas - is bearing fruit in what's already out. We go through the founding story, how elements of the old west and the rich history are interwoven into the bourbon, wheat whiskey, and other spirits, and where Boot Hill is going from here.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Lee for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ Before we jump into the interview just a few quick notes: Ad-free listening is now available to $5/month patrons and above! Sign up or raise your pledge at the link below.  The first three WRP barrel picks are in! The Jack Daniel's Barrel Proof Ryes are SOLD OUT, and the Barrell Rye Finished in Armagnac Casks is now live! Patreon members get an exclusive discount for the Jack Daniel's barrels and free shipping for the Barrell pick - now's the time to up that subscription or join the Patreon if you haven't already! Our Spirits of French Lick barrel pick is done! I won't spoil the surprise, only saying it is one of only 9 or 10 barrels ever made of this whiskey (and ours will be the first to come out!) $25 members get the chance to join me on picks: one of your fellow Patreon members joined me in Lynchburg, one was on the Spirits of French Lick team, and I'll be picking one or more for the KO pick once samples come in! There are now two more spots open in the Barrel Club and 10 spots open at the $15 level for those who want to experience more of the whiskies I get to try every month (or every other month).  Join the Patreon now for early access to the barrels! If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so! Only 2 Spots Remain in the Barrel Club. The $5 tier has access to the Patreon-only segment called “Under the Influencer”, where some of your favorite YouTubers/Instagrammers/Podcasters and more join me to talk whiskey, life, and influencing. This tier will also have priority access to upcoming barrel picks and shortly will have access to ad-free episodes.  The $15 tier takes second access to the $25 tier with 10 spots divided into two: 5 for people who want to receive samples every other month, and 5 for people who want to receive them every month but in smaller numbers.  The $25 tier - for people who really want to propel the pod and website forward - will have the same benefits as the $5 tier plus right of first refusal to join me on future barrel picks, access to bottles I'm sent to taste and review, and more. Only 2 spots remain!  You can still support for as little as $1 a month if you'd like to stay up to date with these changes and news about what we've got coming up.  Finally, please do like and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you're listening - it really helps the Whiskey Ring Podcast move up the rankings.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Boot Hill Distillery Boot Hill Distillery Website Boot Hill Distillery on Instagram Boot Hill Distillery on Facebook Boot Hill Distillery on Twitter/X Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, ImpEx Beverages https://impexbev.com ImpEx on Instagram ImpEx on Facebook ImpEx on Twitter

Sangam World Whisky is the newest release from the Rampur line of Indian whiskies. While there is some Rampur distillate in there, this is much more - a blend of Indian, European, and New World whiskies into a cohesive, slightly smoky (unusual for the Rampur lineup), and highly enjoyable bottling that expands what you may think about Indian whisky into a new category altogether.  The idea, while exciting, is not new to Rampur. Back towards its founding 70+ years ago, Rampur had a whisky blend that brought together Indian single malt with grain whisky from the UK to create an easy drinker loved for decades.  This release builds on the cross-border blending, adding at least three (and many more than that!) distilleries to the vat to marry and mingle until just right.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Mr. Sanjeev Barga and Mr. Kunal Madan for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ Before we jump into the interview just a few quick notes: Ad-free listening is now available to $5/month patrons and above! Sign up or raise your pledge at the link below.  The first three WRP barrel picks are in! The Jack Daniel's Barrel Proof Ryes are SOLD OUT, and the Barrell Rye Finished in Armagnac Casks is now live! Patreon members get an exclusive discount for the Jack Daniel's barrels and free shipping for the Barrell pick - now's the time to up that subscription or join the Patreon if you haven't already! Our Spirits of French Lick barrel pick is done! I won't spoil the surprise, only saying it is one of only 9 or 10 barrels ever made of this whiskey (and ours will be the first to come out!) $25 members get the chance to join me on picks: one of your fellow Patreon members joined me in Lynchburg, one was on the Spirits of French Lick team, and I'll be picking one or more for the KO pick once samples come in! There are now two more spots open in the Barrel Club and 10 spots open at the $15 level for those who want to experience more of the whiskies I get to try every month (or every other month).  Join the Patreon now for early access to the barrels! If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so! Only 2 Spots Remain in the Barrel Club. The $5 tier has access to the Patreon-only segment called “Under the Influencer”, where some of your favorite YouTubers/Instagrammers/Podcasters and more join me to talk whiskey, life, and influencing. This tier will also have priority access to upcoming barrel picks and shortly will have access to ad-free episodes.  The $15 tier takes second access to the $25 tier with 10 spots divided into two: 5 for people who want to receive samples every other month, and 5 for people who want to receive them every month but in smaller numbers.  The $25 tier - for people who really want to propel the pod and website forward - will have the same benefits as the $5 tier plus right of first refusal to join me on future barrel picks, access to bottles I'm sent to taste and review, and more. Only 2 spots remain!  You can still support for as little as $1 a month if you'd like to stay up to date with these changes and news about what we've got coming up.  Finally, please do like and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you're listening - it really helps the Whiskey Ring Podcast move up the rankings.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Sangam World Whisky Sangam World Whisky Website Sangam World Whisky on Instagram Sangam World Whisky on Facebook Sangam World Whisky on Twitter/X Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, ImpEx Beverages https://impexbev.com ImpEx on Instagram ImpEx on Facebook ImpEx on Twitter

Highline Spirits is women-led, women-owned, and women-operated - but that's not the story (or the whole story).  Entering the blending space, Highline - founded by Christi Lower in her home state of Michigan - was inspired by one of the most beautiful places she (and I!) have ever been: the Highline Trail in Glacier National Park. With 3000' up and 3000' down and just enough width for about two people, the trail is challenging, life-changing, and, clearly, inspirational.  Christi's vision is for a blending house that puts out quality, unique blends using the best quality spirits available. She and her team have succeeded with their first four whiskey products: Highline American Whiskey, Highline Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Highline Triple Rye, and Highline Straight Bourbon Blend, each worthy of a taste at their two tasting rooms.  By the way - you can order Highline Spirits directly from my site! Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Christi for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ Before we jump into the interview just a few quick notes: Ad-free listening is now available to $5/month patrons and above! Sign up or raise your pledge at the link below.  The first three WRP barrel picks are in! The Jack Daniel's Barrel Proof Ryes are SOLD OUT, and the Barrell Rye Finished in Armagnac Casks is now live! Patreon members get an exclusive discount for the Jack Daniel's barrels and free shipping for the Barrell pick - now's the time to up that subscription or join the Patreon if you haven't already! Our Spirits of French Lick barrel pick is done! I won't spoil the surprise, only saying it is one of only 9 or 10 barrels ever made of this whiskey (and ours will be the first to come out!) $25 members get the chance to join me on picks: one of your fellow Patreon members joined me in Lynchburg, one was on the Spirits of French Lick team, and I'll be picking one or more for the KO pick once samples come in! There are now two more spots open in the Barrel Club and 10 spots open at the $15 level for those who want to experience more of the whiskies I get to try every month (or every other month).  Join the Patreon now for early access to the barrels! If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so! Only 2 Spots Remain in the Barrel Club. The $5 tier has access to the Patreon-only segment called “Under the Influencer”, where some of your favorite YouTubers/Instagrammers/Podcasters and more join me to talk whiskey, life, and influencing. This tier will also have priority access to upcoming barrel picks and shortly will have access to ad-free episodes.  The $15 tier takes second access to the $25 tier with 10 spots divided into two: 5 for people who want to receive samples every other month, and 5 for people who want to receive them every month but in smaller numbers.  The $25 tier - for people who really want to propel the pod and website forward - will have the same benefits as the $5 tier plus right of first refusal to join me on future barrel picks, access to bottles I'm sent to taste and review, and more. Only 2 spots remain!  You can still support for as little as $1 a month if you'd like to stay up to date with these changes and news about what we've got coming up.  Finally, please do like and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you're listening - it really helps the Whiskey Ring Podcast move up the rankings.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Highline Spirits Highline Spirits's Website Highline Spirits on Instagram Highline Spirits on Facebook Highline Spirits on Twitter/X Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, ImpEx Beverages https://impexbev.com ImpEx on Instagram ImpEx on Facebook ImpEx on Twitter

Anna Axster and Wendelin von Schroder - cousins and veterans of the entertainment industry - have started a whiskey. Just a few weeks ago, that whiskey brand launched as Lodestar Whiskey, a blend of high-rye bourbon and American single malt whiskies aiming for a Southern California vibe.  This whiskey - and the women behind it - are worth a look. It's a whiskey aimed at multiple audiences with multiple purposes. It can stand up on its own, to a cube, and in a cocktail (and not in that "this is a great cocktail whiskey" kind of way). It's outright pro-women-leaders with an allusion to feminism on the label, but the whiskey is still the star.  I was a little skeptical at first - new people getting into the whiskey business with no background other than as consumers, a lower proof, and family connection? We've seen this go sideways many times. On this one, though, call me convinced.  Anna and I talk getting into the business, finding the right blend, connecting with all the audiences they want to, and owning your backyard in a trendy, millennial-centric way.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Anna for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ Before we jump into the interview just a few quick notes: Ad-free listening is now available to $5/month patrons and above! Sign up or raise your pledge at the link below.  The first three WRP barrel picks are in! The Jack Daniel's Barrel Proof Ryes are SOLD OUT, and the Barrell Rye Finished in Armagnac Casks is now live! Patreon members get an exclusive discount for the Jack Daniel's barrels and free shipping for the Barrell pick - now's the time to up that subscription or join the Patreon if you haven't already! Our Spirits of French Lick barrel pick is done! I won't spoil the surprise, only saying it is one of only 9 or 10 barrels ever made of this whiskey (and ours will be the first to come out!) $25 members get the chance to join me on picks: one of your fellow Patreon members joined me in Lynchburg, one was on the Spirits of French Lick team, and I'll be picking one or more for the KO pick once samples come in! There are now two more spots open in the Barrel Club and 10 spots open at the $15 level for those who want to experience more of the whiskies I get to try every month (or every other month).  Join the Patreon now for early access to the barrels! If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so! Only 2 Spots Remain in the Barrel Club. The $5 tier has access to the Patreon-only segment called “Under the Influencer”, where some of your favorite YouTubers/Instagrammers/Podcasters and more join me to talk whiskey, life, and influencing. This tier will also have priority access to upcoming barrel picks and shortly will have access to ad-free episodes.  The $15 tier takes second access to the $25 tier with 10 spots divided into two: 5 for people who want to receive samples every other month, and 5 for people who want to receive them every month but in smaller numbers.  The $25 tier - for people who really want to propel the pod and website forward - will have the same benefits as the $5 tier plus right of first refusal to join me on future barrel picks, access to bottles I'm sent to taste and review, and more. Only 2 spots remain!  You can still support for as little as $1 a month if you'd like to stay up to date with these changes and news about what we've got coming up.  Finally, please do like and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you're listening - it really helps the Whiskey Ring Podcast move up the rankings.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Lodestar Whiskey Lodestar Whiskey's Website Lodestar Whiskey on Instagram Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, ImpEx Beverages https://impexbev.com ImpEx on Instagram ImpEx on Facebook ImpEx on Twitter

Paul Pacult has made a name as one of the OG whiskey/spirits writers in the US. His books, including Kindred Spirits, Buffalo, Barrels, and Bourbon, and American Still Life, have won multiple awards and gone through multiple printings. He is the founder (with his partners) of the Ultimate Spirits Competition, which is sunsetting later this year, and an otherwise esteemed taster with a legendary regimen for evaluating spirits.  Paul is also simply an interesting guy to talk to. He's seen the entire lifecycle of bourbon resurrection, single malt's rise, brown spirits retaking the worldwide consciousness from vodka and gin, writing for publications like the New York Times and many others around the world.  I was recently told that if I wanted to succeed in whiskey podcasting, don't try to be Mark Gillespie and WhiskyCast. If you want to be successful in whiskey and spirits writing, don't be Paul Pacult. BUT, take every ounce of inspiration you can from him - he's got a lifetime of experience and he's willing to share.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Paul for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ Before we jump into the interview just a few quick notes: Ad-free listening is now available to $5/month patrons and above! Sign up or raise your pledge at the link below.  The first three WRP barrel picks are in! The Jack Daniel's Barrel Proof Ryes are SOLD OUT, and the Barrell Rye Finished in Armagnac Casks is now live! Patreon members get an exclusive discount for the Jack Daniel's barrels and free shipping for the Barrell pick - now's the time to up that subscription or join the Patreon if you haven't already! Our Spirits of French Lick barrel pick is done! I won't spoil the surprise, only saying it is one of only 9 or 10 barrels ever made of this whiskey (and ours will be the first to come out!) $25 members get the chance to join me on picks: one of your fellow Patreon members joined me in Lynchburg, one was on the Spirits of French Lick team, and I'll be picking one or more for the KO pick once samples come in! There are now two more spots open in the Barrel Club and 10 spots open at the $15 level for those who want to experience more of the whiskies I get to try every month (or every other month).  Join the Patreon now for early access to the barrels! If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so! Only 2 Spots Remain in the Barrel Club. The $5 tier has access to the Patreon-only segment called “Under the Influencer”, where some of your favorite YouTubers/Instagrammers/Podcasters and more join me to talk whiskey, life, and influencing. This tier will also have priority access to upcoming barrel picks and shortly will have access to ad-free episodes.  The $15 tier takes second access to the $25 tier with 10 spots divided into two: 5 for people who want to receive samples every other month, and 5 for people who want to receive them every month but in smaller numbers.  The $25 tier - for people who really want to propel the pod and website forward - will have the same benefits as the $5 tier plus right of first refusal to join me on future barrel picks, access to bottles I'm sent to taste and review, and more. Only 2 spots remain!  You can still support for as little as $1 a month if you'd like to stay up to date with these changes and news about what we've got coming up.  Finally, please do like and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you're listening - it really helps the Whiskey Ring Podcast move up the rankings.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Paul Pacult Paul Pacult's Website Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, ImpEx Beverages https://impexbev.com ImpEx on Instagram ImpEx on Facebook ImpEx on Twitter

This week, I'm joined by Henric Molin, the chemist-turned-distiller who never quite left the chemistry behind when he and his wife started Spirit of Hven Distillery on a small island in Sweden.  Spirit of Hven's products are immediately recognizable by their Erlenmeyer flask-shaped bottles. Inside the bottles is an adventure. Corn whiskey, rye from the far north, gins with nearby botanicals, and more, all from the island itself or the closest possible source on the mainland.  They also have 18 stills. 18!!! Some of the largest distillers on the planet don't have 18 stills. Granted, not all of them are large, and most of them are pots, not columns. More than anything, they're a testament to Henric's curiosity and never-stop-exploring attitude.  Doesn't hurt that the spirits are pretty damn good, too.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Henric for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ Before we jump into the interview just a few quick notes: Ad-free listening is now available to $5/month patrons and above! Sign up or raise your pledge at the link below.  The first three WRP barrel picks are in! The Jack Daniel's Barrel Proof Ryes are SOLD OUT, and the Barrell Rye Finished in Armagnac Casks is now live! Patreon members get an exclusive discount for the Jack Daniel's barrels and free shipping for the Barrell pick - now's the time to up that subscription or join the Patreon if you haven't already! Our Spirits of French Lick barrel pick is done! I won't spoil the surprise, only saying it is one of only 9 or 10 barrels ever made of this whiskey (and ours will be the first to come out!) $25 members get the chance to join me on picks: one of your fellow Patreon members joined me in Lynchburg, one was on the Spirits of French Lick team, and I'll be picking one or more for the KO pick once samples come in! There are now two more spots open in the Barrel Club and 10 spots open at the $15 level for those who want to experience more of the whiskies I get to try every month (or every other month).  Join the Patreon now for early access to the barrels! If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so! Only 2 Spots Remain in the Barrel Club. The $5 tier has access to the Patreon-only segment called “Under the Influencer”, where some of your favorite YouTubers/Instagrammers/Podcasters and more join me to talk whiskey, life, and influencing. This tier will also have priority access to upcoming barrel picks and shortly will have access to ad-free episodes.  The $15 tier takes second access to the $25 tier with 10 spots divided into two: 5 for people who want to receive samples every other month, and 5 for people who want to receive them every month but in smaller numbers.  The $25 tier - for people who really want to propel the pod and website forward - will have the same benefits as the $5 tier plus right of first refusal to join me on future barrel picks, access to bottles I'm sent to taste and review, and more. Only 2 spots remain!  You can still support for as little as $1 a month if you'd like to stay up to date with these changes and news about what we've got coming up.  Finally, please do like and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you're listening - it really helps the Whiskey Ring Podcast move up the rankings.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Spirit of Hven Distillery Spirit of Hven Distillery Website Spirit of Hven Distillery on Instagram Spirit of Hven Distillery on Facebook Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, ImpEx Beverages https://impexbev.com ImpEx on Instagram ImpEx on Facebook ImpEx on Twitter

Happy Thanksgiving!  This week's episode is extra special. I'm joined by Maggie Kimberl - bourbon reviewer, Content Editor for American Whiskey Magazine, panelist for multiple whiskey awards, cigar aficionado, bourbon historian, and prominent member of several groups promoting women in whiskey, perhaps the most important and widely impactful role among the many hats she wears.  Maggie is a Louisville girl through and through. She knows her whiskey, sure, but she especially knows her bourbon. We talk about being a whiskey writer, how to fall into a job you love, being friends with (and creating a website for) Mike Veach, and getting rid of your excess bourbon at the family doctor.  Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Maggie for entering the Whiskey Ring! _________________________________________________________ Before we jump into the interview just a few quick notes: Ad-free listening is now available to $5/month patrons and above! Sign up or raise your pledge at the link below.  The first three WRP barrel picks are in! The Jack Daniel's Barrel Proof Ryes are SOLD OUT, and the Barrell Rye Finished in Armagnac Casks is now live! Patreon members get an exclusive discount for the Jack Daniel's barrels and free shipping for the Barrell pick - now's the time to up that subscription or join the Patreon if you haven't already! Our Spirits of French Lick barrel pick is done! I won't spoil the surprise, only saying it is one of only 9 or 10 barrels ever made of this whiskey (and ours will be the first to come out!) $25 members get the chance to join me on picks: one of your fellow Patreon members joined me in Lynchburg, one was on the Spirits of French Lick team, and I'll be picking one or more for the KO pick once samples come in! There are now two more spots open in the Barrel Club and 10 spots open at the $15 level for those who want to experience more of the whiskies I get to try every month (or every other month).  Join the Patreon now for early access to the barrels! If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so! Only 2 Spots Remain in the Barrel Club. The $5 tier has access to the Patreon-only segment called “Under the Influencer”, where some of your favorite YouTubers/Instagrammers/Podcasters and more join me to talk whiskey, life, and influencing. This tier will also have priority access to upcoming barrel picks and shortly will have access to ad-free episodes.  The $15 tier takes second access to the $25 tier with 10 spots divided into two: 5 for people who want to receive samples every other month, and 5 for people who want to receive them every month but in smaller numbers.  The $25 tier - for people who really want to propel the pod and website forward - will have the same benefits as the $5 tier plus right of first refusal to join me on future barrel picks, access to bottles I'm sent to taste and review, and more. Only 2 spots remain!  You can still support for as little as $1 a month if you'd like to stay up to date with these changes and news about what we've got coming up.  Finally, please do like and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you're listening - it really helps the Whiskey Ring Podcast move up the rankings.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Maggie Kimberl Maggie Kimberl's Blog Maggie Kimberl on Instagram Maggie Kimberl on Twitter Maggie Kimberl on Muck Rack Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery  Black Button Distilling Website Black Button Distilling on Facebook Black Button Distilling on Instagram Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, ImpEx Beverages https://impexbev.com ImpEx on Instagram ImpEx on Facebook ImpEx on Twitter

Part 2 of our episode with Dread River Distilling in Alabama gets down to the nuts and bolts with new distiller Joshua Goins. Founder John Cubelic stole Joshua down to Birmingham to take over the distilling, and just a month and a half into the job he entered the Whiskey Ring.  I must say, he did an amazing job.  This episode works best with Part 1 (Episode 98) but is set as a standalone, too. Enjoy! ______________________________________________________ Before we jump into the interview just a few quick notes: Ad-free listening is now available to $5/month patrons and above! Sign up or raise your pledge at the link below.  The first WRP barrel pick is coming! I'm back from Tennessee after picking two barrels - that's right, two! - of Jack Daniel's Barrel Proof Rye. Our Spirits of French Lick barrel pick is done! I won't spoil the surprise, only saying it is one of only 9 or 10 barrels ever made of this whiskey (and ours will be the first to come out!) Our Barrell Rye pick done with Perry and Eric of This Is My Bourbon Podcast is just about ready, too, so keep an eye out on social media and on the mailing list for updates.  $25 members get the chance to join me on picks: one of your fellow Patreon members joined me in Lynchburg, one was on the Spirits of French Lick team, and I'll be picking one or more for the KO pick once samples come in! Join the Patreon now for early access to the barrels! If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so! Only 1 Spot Remains in the Barrel Club. The $5 tier has access to the Patreon-only segment called “Under the Influencer”, where some of your favorite YouTubers/Instagrammers/Podcasters and more join me to talk whiskey, life, and influencing. This tier will also have priority access to upcoming barrel picks and shortly will have access to ad-free episodes.  The $25 tier - for people who really want to propel the pod and website forward - will have the same benefits as the $5 tier plus right of first refusal to join me on future barrel picks, access to bottles I'm sent to taste and review, and more. Only 1 spot remains!  You can still support for as little as $1 a month if you'd like to stay up to date with these changes and news about what we've got coming up.  Finally, please do like and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you're listening - it really helps the Whiskey Ring Podcast move up the rankings.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Dread River Distillery Dread River Distillery Website Dread River Distillery on Instagram Dread River Distillery on Facebook Dread River Distillery on YouTube Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, ImpEx Beverages https://impexbev.com ImpEx on Instagram ImpEx on Facebook ImpEx on Twitter

The Gilded Age had its fare share of political scandals, and the Star Route scandal ranks as one of its most important. It exposed the spoils system at a time when public debate about good government filled the headlines. Why has this scandal remained so obscure when compared to others like Credit Mobilier or the Whiskey Ring. Professor Shawn Peters joins the show to discuss his latest book When Bad Men Combine, the story of the star route scandal.Essential Reading:Shawn Francis Peters, When Bad Men Combine: The Star Route Scandal and the Twilight of Gilded Age Politics (2023).Recommended Reading:Winifred Gallagher, How the Post Office Created America (2016).Lewis L. Gould, The Republicans: A History of the Grand Old Party (2014).Adelbert Bower Sageser, The First Two Decades of the Pendleton Act: A Study of Civil Service Reform (1935).Thomas C. Reeves, Gentleman Boss: the Life of Chester Alan Arthur (1975). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There is nothing that wets your true crime whistle like a juicy fraud story. Luckily, we've got two for you! Join Janelle and Vicky as they tackle more stories of people trying to game the system. You can check out Murder and Such here!Research links below: Thought Co. - "The Whiskey Ring: Bribery Scandal of the 1870s"National Archives - "Grant, Babcock, and the Whiskey Ring"History - "Ulysses S. Grant, the Whiskey Ring and America's First Special Prosecutor"The New York Times - "845 Years in Prison, If the Authorities Can Catch Him; F.B.I. Says Fugitive Has a Flair For Fraud and Hiding Stolen Cash"Bloomberg - "Fraudster Returns Home After Trump Commutes 835-Year Term""Anatomy of a Failure" by Sally WhitneyTimes Herald-Records - "Convicted thief paid for religious school"The Yeshiva World - "Shulem Weiss Suffers Stroke - Just Two Months After Commuted By President Trump"The New York Times - "Fugitive Arrested in Austria After a Year on the Run"

A few months ago Devin from American Mash and Grain reached out to David from Whiskey Ring and myself about doing an American Craft roundtable. Not one to shy away from running with someone else's great idea we jumped into it and created a list of people that we thought needed to be here. We had representation from a blog turned retailer, a small distiller with a big name, an independent bottler of “craft” distillers and a website turned blending team. The conversation ranges around all things “craft” or small distillery for a couple of hours. There's obviously so much more for us to talk over so maybe…just maybe there's a whole other discussion waiting to be had. Co-Host:Wedding Ring Podcast@whiskeyinmyweddingring@whiskeyringpodcastDavid Levinewww.whiskeyinmyweddingring.com/Guests:American Mash and Grain/Borrowed Page American Whiskey@mashngrainChase and Devinwww.mashngrain.com Lost Lantern Whiskey@lostlanternwhiskeyNora Ganley-Roperwww.lostlanternwhiskey.comSeelbachs and BourbonrBlake Riberwww.bourbonr.com@bourbonrwww.seelbachs.com Kings CountyColin Spoelman@kingscountydistillerywww.kingscountydistillery.com

BONUS EPISODE TIME! Jesse Parker reenters the Whiskey Ring to talk the new suite of Doc Swinson's finishes and what he's been up to in the last year (hint: lots of experiments and lots of well-deserved awards/nominations!) Just for Whiskey Ring Podcast listeners, Doc Swinson's is providing a discount code through October 3rd. Visit Docswhiskey.com and use code WEDDINGRING10 for 10% off your order, only through October 3rd!  _________________ Before we jump into the interview just a few quick notes: If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so! The $5 tier has: access to the Patreon-only segment called “Under the Influencer”, where some of your favorite YouTubers/Instagrammers/Podcasters and more join me to talk whiskey, life, and influencing. early access to bonus episodes like this one! priority access to upcoming barrel picks, including one coming up in partnership with the This is my Bourbon Podcast.  The $25 tier - for people who really want to propel the pod and website forward - will have the same benefits as the $5 tier plus right of first refusal to join me on future barrel picks, access to bottles I'm sent to taste and review, and more. The first three boxes of samples have already been sent!  You can still support for as little as $1 a month if you'd like to stay up to date with these changes and news about what we've got coming up.  Finally, please do like and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you're listening - it really helps the Whiskey Ring Podcast move up the rankings.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Thanks for reading! Now here's Jesse Parker of Doc Swinson's. Doc Swinson's Doc Swinson's Website Doc Swinson's Twitter Doc Swinson's Instagram Doc Swinson's Facebook Doc Swinson's Reviews Doc Swinson's “Funky Drummer” Rye Whiskey Finished In Jamaican Rum Casks Doc Swinson's “Tres Amigos” Rye Whiskey Finished In Rum And Anejo Tequila Casks Review Doc Swinson's “Smoke on the Water” Rye Whiskey Finished In Islay Quarter Casks Review Doc Swinson's Bourbon Finished in Pineau De Charentes Casks Review Doc Swinson's Bourbon Finished in Moscatel Casks Review Doc Swinson's Bourbon Finished in Tawny Port Casks Review Thanks to our Sponsor, ImpEx Beverages https://impexbev.com ImpEx on Instagram ImpEx on Facebook ImpEx on Twitter Thanks to our Sponsor, Scotch Malt Whisky Society SMWS Website SMWS of America Website (Use code WRP for 20% off your membership!) SMWS/A Facebook SMWS/A Instagram SMWS/A Twitter SMWS/A YouTube  

Hi y'all! We've got a bonus episode for you this week, where we review the Barrell Seagrass Rye Whiskey Gold Label, with our good friend David Levine from The Whiskey Ring Podcast, or WhiskeyInMyWeddingRing. It's a heckuva thing that we've got here, and we really were not expecting this kind of Canadian product to be in our glass. Is it worth the whole $500 a bottle, though? Let's find out together! Enjoy. Become a patron of the show at http://www.patreon.com/mybourbonpodcast Send us an email with questions or comments to thisismybourbonshop@gmail.com Check out all of our merch and apparel: http://bourbonshop.threadless.com/ Leave us a message for Barrel Rings at (859)428-8253 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mybourbonpod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/mybourbonpod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mybourbonpod/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisismybourbonpodcast PayPal, if you feel so inclined: PayPal.me/pritter1492

Welcome Whiskey Ringers to Episode 43! Today's guest is Victoria Eady Butler, Master Blender and 5th-generation descendant of the distillery's namesake, Nathan "Nearest" Green.   Uncle Nearest Distillery is no stranger to the Whiskey Ring: earlier this year, Fawn Weaver joined the Podcast for a conversation about the Distillery's place in the whiskey world and a retrospective on the then-and-now of its history. Delving deep into Uncle Nearest as a man, the ways Fawn endeavored to bring his legacy to life, and how Clay Risen's original research inspired Fawn to pursue her own was an incredible episode.  Victoria, however, comes in as a Whiskey Ring newbie. With Fawn we spoke about business and ideation - with Victoria, we go deep into the whiskey itself, through the sourcing to the new Master's Blend that is 100% Uncle Nearest-distilled spirit. Of course, Nearest Green's heritage had to be included, but this focused on what Victoria is doing as blender and distiller in her own right.  If the Master's Blend is any indication, this is the next phase of Uncle Nearest - and it's ready to blast off.  There are only 5 tickets left for the Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey Event! Sign up for your samples here: Jack Daniel's Tasting Events and grab them before tomorrow, May 12th! If you haven't joined the Patreon community, now is the time: you can now support the site and podcast for as little as $1 a month. There are also $5 and $25 tiers available, and you'll want to get in on the ground floor today for big events coming up this year. Just go to patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring to sign up. If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website.  Finally, please subscribe to the Whiskey Ring Podcast on your favorite podcast platform today! Please leave a 5-star rating and review and share with your friends and fellow whiskey lovers. Thank you for listening and for supporting, and please enjoy this episode with Victoria Eady Butler of Uncle Nearest Distillery. Uncle Nearest Distillery Uncle Nearest Distillery Website Uncle Nearest Distillery on Facebook Uncle Nearest Distillery on Instagram Uncle Nearest Distillery on Twitter Thanks to our Sponsor, ImpEx Beverages https://impexbev.com ImpEx on Instagram ImpEx on Facebook ImpEx on Twitter

Topics include terrible bosses, the best Gilded Age president, and more!

Welcome to the Instant Trivia podcast episode 328, where we ask the best trivia on the Internet. Round 1. Category: "Pow"! 1: A synonym for a woman's restroom. powder room. 2: This multi-state lottery has risen to an almost $315 million winning total. Powerball. 3: 3-word term for the legal authority to act for another person in legal or business matters. power of attorney. 4: As the result of a 1614 wedding, he became John Rolfe's father-in-law. Powhatan. 5: He was Harlem's congressman from 1945 to 1971. Adam Clayton Powell, Jr.. Round 2. Category: Cereals 1: This cereal isn't named after the Flintstones' daughter but for the little bitty stones it resembles. Pebbles. 2: Hooray! This toasted oat cereal is made from the grain highest in protein. Cheerios. 3: Since 1984 this animal's been depicted on the front of the Kellogg's Corn Flakes box. Cornelius the Rooster. 4: After you've finished all of this doll's cereal, she can use the box as a coffee table. Barbie. 5: In addition to being teenage, mutant and ninja-trained, these animals have a cereal. Turtles. Round 3. Category: Algonquin Round Table Quotes 1: Franklin P. Adams:"Words that are weighty with nothing but trouble: 'Tinker to Evers to'" him. Chance. 2: Dorothy Parker:"Guns aren't lawful; nooses give; gas smells awful; you might as well" do this. Live. 3: George S. Kaufman:"I saw the play under bad conditions." This "was up". The curtain. 4: Harold Ross, upon founding this magazine:"(It) will not be edited for the old lady from Dubuque". The New Yorker. 5: Robert Benchley:"In America, there are two classes of travel -- first class, and with" these people. Children. Round 4. Category: Scandals 1: She's doing commercials for No Excuses sportswear following her fling with Gary Hart. Donna Rice. 2: The office of Baseball Commisioner was established in 1920 due to this 1919 event. Black Sox Scandal. 3: His private secretary was linked to the Whiskey Ring, one of many scandals during his administration. Ulysses S. Grant. 4: In "The Affair of the Necklace", a film about a real pre-revolution scandal, Joely Richardson plays this French queen. Marie Antoinette. 5: This 19th century fighter for Irish home rule was scandalously involved with a married woman named Kitty O'Shea. Charles Parnell. Round 5. Category: By Halves 1: After being made with a new metal in 1883, the U.S. coin known as the half dime became known as this. nickel. 2: Nickname of Melissa Gilbert's character on "Little House on the Prairie". Half Pint. 3: According to Tennyson, the Light Brigade moved into the Valley of Death by these increments. half-leagues. 4: A "half" this is a dive that includes a half backward somersault and ends facing the board. kick. 5: For thorium-234 it's about 25 days; for thorium-232, about 14 billion years. half-life. Thanks for listening! Come back tomorrow for more exciting trivia!

Imagine hearing this from 13-year old kid in a junior high classroom: Joe Biden and the Democrats are running a child sex ring for pedophiles. Or, reading a recent letter to the editor in local paper that “QAnon” is a “good” thing. Both are laughable and frightening at the same time. There have always been segments of our populace who believe in conspiracies. When John Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas in November 1963, it couldn’t have been the work of just one mentally unstable man. There had to be more behind it, whether it was the Soviets, the mafia or Fidel Castro, and there were plenty of people who believed they had it figured out, and then made a cottage industry out of it. The funny thing about conspiracies, though, is that if they are true, they don’t withstand the test of time. Someone involved will eventually talk, or a reporter gets a tip that unravels the cabal. Think Watergate, Teapot Dome or the Whiskey Ring scandals. The consequences of equating belief in conspiracy

In this episode, I talk about the Whiskey Ring Scandal where distillers, rectifiers, and revenue collectors worked an elaborate scheme to defraud the government of millions of dollars and one of the kingpins was none other than the President's own personal secretary. Lets chat! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Under President Ulysses S. Grant, John MacDonald created one of the most lucrative scams ever to grace the spirits business, leading to a trial that had the President himself doing the unheard of: testifying as a witness on behalf of the defendant.

Host Sarah Fenske talks with Western Wear Night ringleaders Ryan Koenig and Lucas Hanner. The segment also takes listeners to the latest iteration of the monthly event at the Whiskey Ring, which in some cases has attracted hundreds of attendees over the course of the evening.

I stopped in to visit my new friends Ryan Koenig & Kellie Everett at their home. We talked about their start in music, some of the projects they are involved in, share some music, stories behind the songs, upcoming shows & much more. On this episode you'll hear: Ryan Koenig "I Dreamed of Highways" (from The Focal Point Recordings Vol 1) The Hooten Hallers "Rhythm & Blues" (from Live in Missouri) Ryan Koenig "It Don't Matter" (from Two Different Worlds) See them LIVE 6/15 Ryan will be opening for The Opera Bell Band at Off Broadway 12pm 7/22 Ryan at RFT Showcase at Gezellig 1030pm 7/6 Kellie with The Hooten Hallers at Atomic Cowboy for Americana Festival with Tonina, Andrew Leahey & The Homestead, John Henry, Cree Rider, Gene Jackson, AV & The Dirty Details, The Dust Covers, The Native Sons and Oak, Steel & Lightning 1st & 3rd Tuesday at Whiskey Ring with Ryan Koening & The Goldenrods Follow Ryan Koenig & The Goldenrods, The Hooten Hallers & Ryan Koenig on Facebook for more info.  www.thehootenhallers.com www.ryankoenigstl.com    

As the nation braces for the forthcoming end of special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into President Trump and his associates, The Lawfare Podcast decided to take a look back at the complete history of special prosecutors. Benjamin Wittes sat down with Andrew Coan, a professor of law at the James E. Rogers College of Law at the University of Arizona. Coan recently published "Prosecuting the President," which traces the history of how special prosecutors and counsels work to keep the executive branch accountable for its actions. Ben and Andrew discussed the book, the Teapot Dome Scandal, the Whiskey Ring, and what all of that might mean for the future of special counsels.

Bourbon History keeps the memories of bourbon alive by bringing in subject matter experts to share their knowledge about a moment in time, or important person from bourbon history. Today's show features Phil Kolllin filling Steve and Renee in on the Whiskey Ring. Bourbon History is proudly supported by the New Orleans Bourbon Festival. Don't miss this year's fun March 20 - 23 in New Orleans, Louisiana. You can learn more at nobourbonfest.com and get your tickets right here: https://goo.gl/nMXXUP – Check us out at: abvnetwork.com. Join the ABV Network Revolution by adding #ABVNetworkCrew to your profile in social media.

In 1875, Ulysses S. Grant hired a special prosecutor to investigate the Whiskey Ring scandal. Furious with his findings, Grant had him fired.

All about Presidential Scandals.  From how Watergate may have seemed like in 1972 on Election night, to Grant and Carter's troublesome friends, to the Iran Contra story, we look at White House mess-ups and election impact.    Though recorded in 2012, and originally titled 'You're TV Lied to You' I believe it's just as relevant today.  

It's another gathering of this unique and talented group to celebrate what we can of 2016, we have LIVE music and more for John's Birthday (he competes with Jesus' Birthday...it's the least we could do), We are LIVE at The Whiskey Ring (on Cherokee) and our guest list is superb as usual! It's Dec. 23rd, and BIG Thanks to Monkh (Monkh.us - @MonkhUS on Twitter) as our first guest, he performs 2 songs - one is a John and Kane Show EXCLUSIVE - Never before performed, and available here for download! (Please forgive any audio integrity issues - we are still working on our mobile rig) Monkh sounded great and sets the tone for the longest podcast in John and Kane Show history, with our next guest - and old friend of the show: Gary Burger (BurgerLaw.com) Gary is a Top Rated Trial Lawyer in the Bi-State area, getting fair and full compensation for clients who are victims of accidents or damages that aren't their fault - he comes in to intentionally ignore John! We have a very educational, rational conversation about politics - Kane thinks you'll either tune out, or learn something:) And speaking of tuning out - our next guest is 'comedian' Joe Lehnig - who we discover has been fired from over 60 jobs - NOT a joke. It's always unpredictable when Joe gets behind the mic - and that's what we'll say about that. Then one of our favorites - and not just because she brings wonderful adult beverages...! It's our Certified Sommelier (and soon to be SUPER Sommelier) Alisha Blackwell, CSW @ExquisiteVines on Twitter and Instagram and on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/exquisitevines/ As she is known to do, Alisha educates us on the subtle differences and attractive properties of the adult beverages she shared with us...we love Alisha and wish her a lifetime of happiness when she gets married in May! Our love for our old producer 'Stick certainly is expressed on her rare visit to the show - it's always fun to have her, and John seems to have fun poking fun and Jenn handles herself in memorable fashion - oh, she is missed - Happy Birthday to her as well:) And we cannot ignore the people who have made this podcast possible - starting with Adam White who has been a consistent part of the show for the last 2 years - along with 'Lord' Thomas Fortenberry coordinating guests and information, and Andy Faulstich ('Bad Andy') who is our utility, video guy, a great friend to John and the show - and made the Whiskey Ring connection! ALSO - another John and Kane Show 'First' - we bring in 'Random Guy We Don't Know' for a 'Random Man Interview' - it was quite a night, actually...! Big Happy Birthday to John! Make sure to follow: @Indio_Radio - @JohnAndKaneShow on Twitter and Instagram - LIKE Indio Radio, and John and Kane Show - Indio Radio on Facebook get The John And Kane Show on iTunes, Spreaker or Stitcher as well - just search 'Indio Radio Podcast' Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

In the shadowy corridors of post-Civil War America, the Whiskey Ring scandal of 1875 emerges as a riveting saga of corruption, intrigue, and the battle for justice. This episode of Hometown History transports listeners to St. Louis, a city pulsing with the spirit of commerce and the undercurrents of political scheming during the presidency of Ulysses S. Grant. As we peel back the layers of this historical event, we delve into a world where secret societies and high stakes converge in a scandal that threatened to topple the very foundations of trust and integrity in the government. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a nation striving to mend the rifts of the Civil War, highlighting the complexities of governance, the allure of power, and the ethical dilemmas that define the human condition.The tale of the Whiskey Ring is not merely a chronicle of tax evasion and clandestine plots; it is a reflection on the challenges of leadership and the perennial fight against corruption. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, this episode sheds light on the individuals at the heart of the scandal—from the whiskey distillers and government officials ensnared in the web of deceit, to Secretary of the Treasury Benjamin Bristow's relentless pursuit of justice. As we journey through the intricacies of the investigation and the dramatic courtroom battles that ensued, listeners are invited to ponder the lessons of the past and the enduring quest for integrity in the public sphere. Join us on Hometown History as we explore the Whiskey Ring of 1875, a story of ambition, betrayal, and the quest for redemption in America's tumultuous post-war era.Visit me online.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy