
Bourbon Lens
446 episodes — Page 6 of 9

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Episode 9: David Mandell
We're back for Episode 9 of "Off Hours with Bourbon Lens" featuring David Mandell, the man behind many projects in the heart of Bourbon Country; Bardstown Kentucky. David is co-founder of Bardstown Bourbon Co. and is currently with Stoli Group/Kentucky Owl and is the Chairman of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival. Jake sits down with David to find out how he turns off his business mind and finds time for himself. This episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Find the time and the moments in between. Find them with us in the Off Hours. Find out more about Off Hours Bourbon on their website. This has been another production of Bourbon Lens LLC. Thank you for your continued support. Scott & JakeBourbon Lens About David Mandell: David Mandell is the co-founder and former President & CEO of The Bardstown Bourbon Company, ("BBCo"). At BBCo, Mandell created, launched, and managed the company's Napa-valley bourbon distillery destination experience in Bardstown, Kentucky. Mandell led the development and operation of what is now one of the largest and most sophisticated whiskey distilleries in the United States. Producing custom rye, whiskey and bourbon for prominent brands including Jefferson's, High West, Belle Meade, Hirsch and many others through its one-of-a-kind Collaborative Distilling Program. Mandell was also responsible for the development and launch of the Company's bourbon brands, full-scale restaurant and bar, and visitors center. During his tenure at BBCo, Mandell served on the Board of the Kentucky Distillers Association, the Bourbon Capital Community Alliance, and currently serves on the Kentucky Bourbon Festival Board of Directors. Mandell is a shareholder of BBCo.

187: Discovering America's Best Craft Whiskey with Blind Barrels
Our guest this week is Bobby DeMars, founder and CEO of Blind Barrels. Bobby developed Blind Barrels as a quarterly blind tasting experience that ships straight to your door. Blind Barrels is an exploration of the craft whiskey scene of America and we were excited to test our palates. Blind tastings remove any "label bias" that whiskey drinkers may encounter when tasting their whiskies and we've found that blind tasting is one of the best ways to get serious about learning whiskey. Sign up for a one off box, or save some extra cash by signing up for a year's subscription of 4 unique tasting lineups. Check them out at BlindBarrels.com. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About Blind Barrels: Blind Barrels was born to disrupt the whiskey industry, by showcasing American craft whiskey that don't make their way to liquor store shelves due to distribution limitations. Our blind tastings are all about discovery, education, removing brand bias, and supporting smaller distillers who are making some amazing, innovative, and delicious products. Every quarter (March, June, September, and December), a premium tasting box will ship to Blind Barrels members, which includes four 50 mL samples, labeled Samples A, B, C, and D. The box will also include an introduction to the club, a tasting table, and a QR Code and link to learn what spirits are in each sample - distillery, mash, abv, tasting notes, distillery back story. If a member discovers a new whiskey they wish to add to their cabinet or share with their friends, shipping discounts are available for full bottle purchases in our Bottle Shop. Members will have access to rare offerings from Craft distilleries, including rare and limited selections from American craft distilleries. About Bobby DeMars: Bobby DeMars is the Founder & CEO of Blind Barrels - a blind whiskey tasting subscription that is disrupting the industry's current distribution model by showcasing American craft distilleries, ones which rarely get the shelf space they deserve. The recent quarantine brought about blind whiskey tastings with friends, and DeMars saw an opportunity for a startup unlike any other in the alcohol industry. These blind tastings are all about discovery, education, removing brand bias, and, of course, supporting smaller distillers that are making some amazing handmade products. Each quarter, subscribers get to test their senses by tasting and discovering hard-to-try-or-find craft whiskey brands - ones that deserve to be discovered. A former USC football player (1997-2001), DeMars is an award-winning filmmaker whose documentary, "The Business of Amateurs" (2016), took on the NCAA's exploitation of college athletes and the prevalence of brain trauma inherent to college football. He is on the oversight committee for the National College Players Association (NCPA). Both the film and the NCPA have been instrumental in passing laws for college athlete rights, including the Supreme Court ruling in 2021 that opened the door for college athletes to make money from their Name Image Likeness (NIL).

186: Reintroducing Old Potrero Straight Rye Whiskey
Our guest is Bruce Joseph, Master Distiller of Old Potrero Straight Rye Whiskey for Hotaling & Co. Bruce previously appeared back in Episode 74 (circa June 2020), but he's back with his unique malted rye whiskey and it is now bearing a higher age statement and some killer new packaging. The malted rye mashbill is pot distilled in San Francisco and admittedly is one of the most unique whiskies we've tried during this podcast's history. If you want to flex your palate and see what else is out there in craft whiskey, we highly recommend you find a bottle of Old Potrero's 6 year aged stated Straight Rye Whiskey. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens From their June 2022 Press Release: Hotaling & Co. is proud to announce the relaunch of the legendary whiskey brand, Old Potrero Straight Rye Whiskey, credited as the first American Craft Whiskey to hit the market since prohibition. The Old Potrero relaunch will feature new packaging and bottle design geared towards today's contemporary whiskey drinker, who appreciates an excellent dram with an iconic heritage and a modern-day appeal. Originally created by Fritz Maytag, the beverage visionary and founder of Hotaling & Co., (formerly Anchor Distilling Co.), Old Potrero Rye Whiskey is a bold homage to the original artisanal whiskies of America, a testament to the power of the pioneering spirit and the celebrated return of pot-distilled whiskey in the United States. Since 1994, the whiskey has been distilled in small copper pot stills at the San Francisco-based distillery, and in 2010 was passed down to current Master Distiller, Bruce Joseph, who has worked alongside Fritz since the first barrels were laid in the early 90's. "We are thrilled to usher Old Potrero into a new era," says Master Distiller, Bruce Joseph. "With the same bold liquid within, Old Potrero's new packaging and bottle embody the boldness of its home-base, San Francisco. A city that's resilient, creative and richly historic, just like Old Potrero." The new packaging redesign, created by design agency Stranger & Stranger, features a dark wooden top with a natural cork stopper stamped with Old Potrero branding for a premium craft feel. The bottle's perforated edges and ticket-style copy holding devices connect back to the historic cable cars of San Francisco. And the new label features the same copper pot still used at the distillery since its inception as well as one of the world's most celebrated and iconic sights – The Golden Gate Bridge. The font, Fog City Gothic, is used throughout the label as a nod to the type used on signage seen throughout San Francisco. "The bottle's design was inspired by the juxtaposition of San Francisco's architecture, between the past and the present," says Luis Rivas Ball, Senior Brand Lead American Whiskeys at Hotaling and Co. "From the perforated edges and ticket-style holding devices that connect back to the cable cars to the copper pot still and Golden Gate Bridge in the logo, Old Potrero is a true representation of San Francisco." Although the brand is launching a bold and eye-catching new design, what's inside will remain unchanged – the same award winning 100% malted rye whiskey, now aged longer for added smoothness and complexity. Highlights on the Old Potrero Straight Rye Whiskey 6 years-old and the Old Potrero Old Single Barrel 100% Malted Rye Whiskey are as follows: Old Potrero Straight Rye Whiskey 6-Year-Old (SRP $64.99) marked the official return of pot distilled rye whiskey to the US. Distilled from a 100% malted rye mash bill in the same copper post still since the 1990's, the liquid is then matured in new, charred, 24-month air dried, extra-fine grain, American white oak barrels for a minimum of six years. Tasting notes include brown sugar, black cherry, spice, and maple with a nutty finish, satisfying the enthusiast' desire for bolder flavors and higher strength whiskeys. The Old Potrero Single Barrel Rye Whiskey (SRP $89.99) is aged in extra fine grain American Oak. The wood is air dried for 24 months and the barrels are fully toasted and charred by hand over an oak fire. T

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Episode 8: Marcus Niemann
We're back for Episode 8 of "Off Hours with Bourbon Lens" featuring Marcus Niemann, the future Director of Quality and R&D at Michter's Distillery and former guest of our Behind the Scenes at Four Roses Episode way back on Episode 39. Marcus is a long-time friend of Jake's who is passionate about philanthropy, bike riding, fatherhood, and fermentation. This episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Find the time and the moments in between. Find them with us in the Off Hours. Find out more about Off Hours Bourbon on their website. This has been another production of Bourbon Lens LLC. Thank you for your continued support. Scott & JakeBourbon Lens

185: Carefully Crafting Bourbon and Rye Whiskey with Pinhook
Putting a wine-maker's spin on blending bourbon and rye, Sean Joseph's utilizes his background as a Wine Sommelier to blend yearly vintages of Pinhook. We discuss the Pinhook approach to blending and the work behind the horse racing-inspired branding. It's clear that there is a lot more to this whiskey than colorful wax. Have you tried Pinhook Whiskies before? Let us know your thoughts by dropping us a line on social media. About Pinhook: The standard approach to American whiskey uses blending and a fixed proof to replicate an established flavor profile batch after batch. Breaking with this tradition, Pinhook treats each set of barrels as a new vintage, shaped by the natural variations in the ingredients and the elements. Working in small batches, we craft each vintage to express the best whiskey rather than the same whiskey, and set the proof to optimize the unique attributes of that group of barrels. To differentiate these expressions from each other and to help identify the same expression across multiple vintages, we have developed a visual language, inspired by jockeys' silks. Click Here to learn more about what each component signifies. About Sean Josephs: Sean Josephs is a founder of Pinhook and the Master Blender, a role in which he directs Castle & Key in the distillation of Pinhook's custom mashbills and blends and proofs every Pinhook vintage. Sean's background is as an award-winning restaurateur, certified sommelier and nationally-acclaimed whiskey and cocktail expert. After cutting his teeth at Chanterelle and Per Se in New York City, Sean opened three American Whiskey bars and restaurants: Char No. 4 and Maysville in New York and Kenton's in New Orleans. The food and bar programs have been recognized by publications ranging from Esquire to the Wall Street Journal. Sean has appeared on the New York Times' wine and spirits tasting panel on several occasions, has authored articles on bourbon, and is frequently quoted as a whiskey and cocktail authority. Sean is a graduate of the Colorado College.

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Episode 7: Penelope Bourbon
We're back for Episode 7 of "Off Hours with Bourbon Lens" featuring Michael Paladini, co-founder of Penelope Bourbon. This episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Find the time and the moments in between. Find them with us in the Off Hours. Find out more about Off Hours Bourbon on their website. This has been another production of Bourbon Lens LLC. Thank you for your continued support. Scott & JakeBourbon Lens

184: Making 'Painfully Craft' Whiskey at Preservation Distillery
Rare, old whiskies are the subject of today's podcast as we sit down with Preservation Distillery in Bardstown Kentucky. Jake tastes through a flight of Preservation whiskies, including Rare Perfection, Very Olde St. Nick, and Wattie Boone & Sons. Our guest today is Jake Feldhuse who tells the brand's history, story, and a little bit about what might be in store for the distillery. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Episode 6: David DeFazio & Wyoming Whiskey
We're back for Episode 6 of "Off Hours with Bourbon Lens" featuring David DeFazio, Co-Founder of Wyoming Whiskey and avid outdoorsman. This episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Find the time and the moments in between. Find them with us in the Off Hours. Find out more about Off Hours Bourbon on their website. This has been another production of Bourbon Lens LLC. Thank you for your continued support. Scott & JakeBourbon Lens

183: Kentucky Bourbon Festival: "Only Whiskey. Only in Bardstown."
Year 2 of the revamped Kentucky Bourbon Festival is just 2 months away. "Whiskey Only. Only In Bardstown." is the tagline for the 2022 edition of the Festival. One of Kentucky's biggest events that celebrates its native spirit is returning for 2022, and tickets are on sale. The 31st Kentucky Bourbon Festival will be held Sept. 16 through Sept. 18 in Bardstown. Hear from Festival President Randy Prasse as he discusses last year's event as well as what the future holds for the Festival. Buy your tickets today as you don't want to miss this event. Premium and Specialty Event tickets go on sale August 1 at 11am EDT. Here are the details on the ticket packages still available: 3 x Day 'Bourbon Taster' $125.00 + shipping fee Friday, Saturday, Sunday Admission Sampling from all participating distillery booths throughout the weekend 'Wee' Glencairn KBF-branded nosing and tasting glass - one glass per guest Ability to purchase bottles from the distillery booths AND exclusive KBF Single Barrel bottles from the KBF Bottle Shop Access to distillery booths, educational sessions, musical entertainment, food trucks, and exhibits 1 x Day 'Sunday Sampler' $75.00 + shipping fee Sunday Only Admission Sampling from all participating distillery booths throughout the weekend 'Wee' Glencairn KBF-branded nosing and tasting glass - one glass per guest Ability to purchase bottles from the distillery booths AND exclusive KBF Single Barrel bottles from the KBF Bottle Shop Access to distillery booths, educational sessions, musical entertainment, food trucks, and exhibits Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Episode 5: Frey Ranch
We're back with Episode 5 of "Off Hours with Bourbon Lens" featuring Ashley and Colby Frey, Founders of Frey Ranch Distillery in Fallon Nevada. This episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Find the time and the moments in between. Find them with us in the Off Hours. Find out more about Off Hours Bourbon on their website. This has been another production of Bourbon Lens LLC. Thank you for your continued support. Scott & JakeBourbon Lens

182: Old Elk Distillery's New Limited Whiskey Releases
We are catching up with Old Elk's Master Distiller, Greg Metze, since his last appearance back in Episode 101. Old Elk Distillery is continuing to grow, expand its limited release portfolio , and experiment with blends and finishes. We taste their Master's Blend Series offerings, Four Grain Bourbon and Double Wheat. Find out what's going on in Fort Collins Colorado in this week's episode of Bourbon Lens. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. e are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About Greg Metze Greg Metze, Master Distiller at Old Elk Distillery, has four decades of distilling experience, starting at the Joseph E. Seagram & Sons Distillery located in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, in 1978. He is considered one of the spirits industry's premier master distillers and has had a hand in crafting many of the whiskies on the shelf today. Greg's connection to Old Elk traces back to the distillery's inception. He was master distiller at MGP Ingredients when Old Elk Distillery asked him, in 2013, to create the signature mash bill for Old Elk Blended Straight Bourbon Whiskey that would bring to life the vision of Old Elk's founder, Curt Richardson. With an unrestricted approach, Greg's direction helped develop a custom mashbill with four times more malted barley than the conventional recipe. After spending most of his career at Seagram & Sons (which later became LDI and then MGP Ingredients), Greg was offered the Master Distiller position at Old Elk. He joined Old Elk Distillery in 2016, marking the first time he has ever worked exclusively for one brand. Greg and head distiller Kate Douglas developed Old Elk's proprietary Slow CutTM proofing process, where the liquid is proofed down over an extended period of time instead of the traditional 24-48 hours. This results in less heat created during the proofing process, and thus a smoother tasting bourbon. All Old Elk whiskies, including this wheat whiskey, go through the Slow Cut™ proofing process. While Greg quietly earned fame among whiskey enthusiasts as the master distiller behind many popular sourced whiskey brands, he now has a distillery and a legacy brand to call "home."

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Episode 4: John Wadell
We're back with Episode 4 of "Off Hours with Bourbon Lens" featuring John Wadell, Single Barrel Curator for Kentucky Peerless Distilling and Founder of The Stave & Bean Coffee Co. This episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Find the time and the moments in between. Find them with us in the Off Hours. Find out more about Off Hours Bourbon on their website. Follow John on Instagram @bourbon_colonel86. Learn more about Kentucky Peerless and The Stave & Bean Coffee Co. on their websites. This has been another production of Bourbon Lens LLC. Thank you for your continued support. For exclusive opportunities and content, be sure to support our Patreon. Scott & JakeBourbon Lens

181: Planning Your Next Bourbon-Centric Trip to Louisville
Are you looking to plan your next weekend trip? Check out all Louisville has to offer in this "Travel To-Do List" episode of Bourbon Lens. Jake discusses ideas for your next bourbon-centric trip to Kentucky. You are guaranteed to find some places you'll love in this episode. Be sure to let us know your favorite tourist destinations in Louisville. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens Image Credit: Louisville Tourism, GoToLouisville.com

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Episode 3: Bob Cutler
Episode 3 of "Off Hours with Bourbon Lens" features a long-time supporter of Bourbon Lens; Bob Cutler from Novio's Bistro in Bangor Maine. We are honored to have the support of Bob and his team at Novio's Bistro over the years and it's our privilege to have Bob as one of our guests on this podcast mini-series. As always, this episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Find the time and the moments in between. Find them with us in the Off Hours. Find out more about Off Hours Bourbon on their website. This has been another production of Bourbon Lens LLC. Thank you for your continued support. Scott & Jake Bourbon Lens

180: What's Buzzing with Buzzard's Roost Bourbon & Rye Whiskey
Jason Brauner, Co-Founder of Buzzard's Roost Sippin' Whiskey rejoins the Bourbon Lens to talk about some of their latest releases. This includes one of the more unique finished whiskies we've tried this year, Cigar Rye. As you'll hear, they take their process seriously and believe that's what makes their bourbon and rye truly spectacular. Buzzard's Roost uses only brand new, 53-gallon white oak barrels that are carefully toasted and very lightly charred. Each barrel is designed from the ground up to deliver a specific flavor profile. They work closely with their cooperage to tweak every parameter of the barrel - from the seasoning to the charring to the development of custom toast profiles. All the barrels are unique and proprietary to the company, giving Buzzard's Roost a truly one-of-a kind flavor. After resting only a few weeks in the new barrels, the whiskey is purposefully transformed and ready for bottling. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. This episode of the Bourbon Lens is brought to you by MANSCAPED™, who is proving themselves to be the best in men's below-the-waist grooming. Their products are precision-engineered tools and are designed specifically for maintaining and taking care of your family jewels. MANSCAPED's™ Performance Package the ultimate men's hygiene bundle and what we recommend to our followers! Get 20% Off and Free Shipping with the code BOURBONLENS at MANSCAPED.com. That's 20% off with free shipping at www.MANSCAPED.com and use code BOURBONLENS. Unlock your confidence and always use the right tools for the job with MANSCAPED™. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About Buzzard's Roost: Buzzard's Roost Sipping Whiskey is an exceptional line of whiskies crafted using pioneering techniques. Buzzard's Roost is redefining American whiskey, with its focus on treating barrels in very specific ways to achieve rare and exceptional flavors. No other whiskey in the world has flavor profiles like Buzzard's Roost. And like the keen eye of the buzzard, Buzzard's Roost has a long-range vision and a wide perspective on what American whiskey can be. Buzzard's Roost is proudly woman-owned and lead, and is currently distributed throughout Kentucky and Massachusetts with more states coming soon. Follow @BuzzardsRoostWhiskey on Instagram and Facebook.

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Episode 2: The Daily Dram
We're back for Episode 2 of "Off Hours with Bourbon Lens" featuring Brandon Smith, the face behind @TheDailyDram on Instagram. This episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Find the time and the moments in between. Find them with us in the Off Hours. Find out more about Off Hours Bourbon on their website. This has been another production of Bourbon Lens LLC. Thank you for your continued support. Scott & Jake Bourbon Lens

179: The Ultimate Bourbon-Loving Father's Day Gift Guide
Jake and Scott celebrate all the Father's in this episode. Catch up with the guys and hear our suggestions for some great Father's Day gifts for the bourbon-loving dads in your life. What has been your best Father's Day gift to give or receive? Be sure to drop us a line and let us know! Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. This episode of the Bourbon Lens is brought to you by MANSCAPED™, who is proving themselves to be the best in men's below-the-waist grooming. Their products are precision-engineered tools and are designed specifically for maintaining and taking care of your family jewels. MANSCAPED's™ Performance Package the ultimate men's hygiene bundle and what we recommend to our followers! Get 20% Off and Free Shipping with the code BOURBONLENS at MANSCAPED.com. That's 20% off with free shipping at www.MANSCAPED.com when you use code BOURBONLENS. Unlock your confidence and always use the right tools for the job with MANSCAPED™. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens Show Links: Get your Whiskey Whisdom American Whiskey Glasses & Get 10% Off Amazon x Bourbon Lens - Father's Day Guide Guide Buy Bourbon Lens X Broken Barrel Rare Americana Sauternes Finished® - ON SALE $34.99

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Episode 1: Jake Ireland
Thanks for listening to the Inaugural Episode of "Off Hours with Bourbon Lens" featuring Jake Ireland, Founder of Off Hours Bourbon. This episode is brought to you in collaboration with, and support from, Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Find the time and the moments in between. Find them with us in the Off Hours. Find out more about Off Hours Bourbon on their website. This has been another production of Bourbon Lens LLC. Thank you for your continued support. Scott & Jake Bourbon Lens

178: Sneak Preview of 3 New Releases from High Bank Distillery
Jake sits down with 3 soon-to-release offerings from Ohio's High Bank Distillery. High Bank just announced three new barrel selects which are releasing Friday, June 10th at 11AM. The release features: Whiskey War Barrel Select - 2ND AGED SANGIOVESE Batch #7 - 120 proof Our classic rye-heavy mash bill that has been second aged in the original Barrel Select batch #1 high-end Sangiovese wine cask for 27 months (total age of 5 years). Statehouse Gin Barrel Select - WHISKEY WAR CABERNET Batch #4 - 82 proof Aged for 27 months in a Cabernet Sauvignon wine barrel that previously aged batch #2 of Whiskey War Barrel Select. As our longest aged barrel select gin to date. Awarded a silver medal at the 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Whiskey War Barrel Select - MADERIA Batch #8 - 114 proof Our classic rye-heavy mash bill that has been second aged in a high-end Spanish Madeira wine cask for 18 months (total age of 4.5 years). Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. This episode of the Bourbon Lens is brought to you by MANSCAPED™, who is proving themselves to be the best in men's below-the-waist grooming. Their products are precision-engineered tools and are designed specifically for maintaining and taking care of your family jewels. MANSCAPED's™ Performance Package the ultimate men's hygiene bundle and what we recommend to our followers! Get 20% Off and Free Shipping with the code BOURBONLENS at MANSCAPED.com. That's 20% off with free shipping at www.MANSCAPED.com and use code BOURBONLENS. Unlock your confidence and always use the right tools for the job with MANSCAPED™. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens

177: The Bourbon Behind the Butterfly with Blue Run Spirits
Blue Run has experienced a lot of growth and success in the time since we last spoke with them on Episode 115. Their recognizable bottle and butterfly branding has helped propel their premium whiskies to the top shelf of many enthusiasts' bars. We catch up with Mike Montgomery and one of their newest team members, Shaylyn Gammon, to discuss the brand's current position in the market and how they expect to continue to push the premium American Whiskey world. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. This episode of the Bourbon Lens is brought to you by MANSCAPED™, who is proving themselves to be the best in men's below-the-waist grooming. Their products are precision-engineered tools and are designed specifically for maintaining and taking care of your family jewels. MANSCAPED's™ Performance Package the ultimate men's hygiene bundle and what we recommend to our followers! Get 20% Off and Free Shipping with the code BOURBONLENS at MANSCAPED.com. That's 20% off with free shipping at www.MANSCAPED.com and use code BOURBONLENS. Unlock your confidence and always use the right tools for the job with MANSCAPED™. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens Show Links: Use Code: BOURBONLENS for 20% off and free shipping at MANSCAPED (Sponsored) Blue Run Spirits Bourbon Lens Episode 115: Blue Run Spirits - Tapping A Legend of the Bourbon World This mom-to-be helped create the Best American Whiskey of 2021 without ever trying it ABOUT MIKE MONTGOMERY Mike Montgomery is cofounder and CEO of Blue Run Spirits. Mike has spent the last few decades in public affairs consulting after working with California-based elected officials. Prior to his time in politics, he worked with the U.S. Canoe & Kayak team in Lake Placid, NY. He is a proud graduate of the University of Washington. Mike and his wife and daughter reside in Los Angeles. ABOUT SHAYLYN GAMMON Blue Run Spirits recently announced the hiring of Shaylyn Gammon as its first Whiskey Director. Gammon will drive the development and expansion of Blue Run's whiskey portfolio. Gammon joins Blue Run Spirits from Campari Group, where she managed product innovation projects across the company's North American portfolio. Based in Kentucky, she worked closely with the Bourbon Hall of Fame duo of Jimmy and Eddie Russell on Wild Turkey whiskies, in particular brand extensions such as Master's Keep, Rare Breed, Russell's Reserve and Matthew McConaughey's Longbranch. Gammon's work with the Russell's has been widely lauded. Most recently, Russell's Reserve 13-Year-Old Bourbon was named the "Best American Whiskey of 2021" by world-renowned spirits critic and bourbon authority Fred Minnick. Double Gold Medal wins at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition include Longbranch, Rare Breed Rye, and Russell's Reserve Single Barrel Rye, which was also a finalist for Rye Whiskey of the Year at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge. As Blue Run's Whiskey Director, Gammon will work with the Blue Run team on the selection of sourced barrels for the company's bourbon and rye releases, prepare the company's private barrel selection program, and serve as a distillation apprentice to Blue Run Liquid Advisor Jim Rutledge. She will also work closely with the Blue Run team to strengthen and grow its comprehensive, long-term product and innovation strategy, tapping into her years of experience as a research and development scientist, and, of course, a huge whiskey fan. In addition to Campari Group, Gammon's experience includes AmeriQual Foods, YUM! Brands and Land O'Frost. She is a member of the Bourbon Women Association; Women of the Vine and Spirits; and Louisville Women Leaders and is a graduate of the University of Kentucky in food science. ABOUT BLUE RUN SPIRITS Blue Run Spirits was started in October 2020 and has since created seven whiskey releases – several with separate expressions in a single release, such as the recent 12 Days of Single Barrel High Rye Bourbon this past December. The company's releases have sold out in mere minutes and have received many accolades, including Blue Run 14-Year-Old Small Batch Bourbon, which was awarded top honors at the prestigious 2021 San Fra

176: Catching Up With Bourbon Lens & Whiskey Samples
Jake and Scott pour up a variety of whiskies as they attempt to organize their liquor cabinets. Big shoutout to all the brands who allow us the opportunities to taste a wide range of whiskey and bourbon. This episode of the Bourbon Lens is brought to you by MANSCAPED™, who is proving themselves to be the best in men's below-the-waist grooming. Their products are precision-engineered tools and are designed specifically for maintaining and taking care of your family jewels. MANSCAPED's™ Performance Package the ultimate men's hygiene bundle and what we recommend to our followers! Get 20% Off and Free Shipping with the code BOURBONLENS at MANSCAPED.com. That's 20% off with free shipping at www.MANSCAPED.com and use code BOURBONLENS. Unlock your confidence and always use the right tools for the job with MANSCAPED™. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens Show Links: Use Code: BOURBONLENS for 20% off and free shipping at MANSCAPED (Sponsored) Aged & Ore Bottle Flight 152: Wheated Bourbon of the West with Wyoming Whiskey Wyoming Whiskey Novio's Bistro Southern Rye — Thirteenth Colony Distillery 15 Stars Fine Aged Bourbon Santa Fe Spirits Blood Oath Bourbon

175: The Whiskey Lover's Guide to Barrel-Aged Gin
Stepping into the broader spirits world, we're looking at some whiskey-adjacent spirits today. We are sipping 4 different barrel-aged gins from a wide variety of distilleries. Is the gin world ripe for the whiskey lover? Tune in to find out. This episode of the Bourbon Lens is brought to you by MANSCAPED™, who is proving themselves to be the best in men's below-the-waist grooming. Their products are precision-engineered tools and are designed specifically for maintaining and taking care of your family jewels. MANSCAPED's™ Performance Package the ultimate men's hygiene bundle and what we recommend to our followers! Get 20% Off and Free Shipping with the code BOURBONLENS at MANSCAPED.com. That's 20% off with free shipping at www.MANSCAPED.com and use code BOURBONLENS. Unlock your confidence and always use the right tools for the job with MANSCAPED™. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens Show Links: Use Code: BOURBONLENS for 20% off and free shipping at MANSCAPED (Sponsored) Log Still Distillery - Monk's Road Gin Bespoke Gin – Rabbit Hole Distillery Sourland Mountain Spirits Gin Reserve Barrel Aged Gin – Lockhouse Distillery Aged Gins - What They Are and Which to Try Barrel-Aged Gins Are Incredible Once You Figure Out the Right Ways to Use Them | VinePair 10 of the Best Barrel-Aged Gins You Can Buy Right Now | VinePair Is Barrel Aged Gin a Good Idea? The Whisky Lover's Guide to Barrel-Aged Gin Our Favorite Barrel-Aged Gins Barrel-Aged Gin Explained - On the Sauce Again The Story and Subtleties Behind Barrel-Aged Gin | Bespoke Post Barrel-Aged Gins That Will Change The Way You Think About The Spirit

174: Jack Daniel's Launches New Bottled in Bond Whiskies
Jack Daniel's just launched two new bottled in bond whiskies and Bourbon Lens is among the first to try them. Among the two new releases, a Bonded Tennessee Whiskey and a Triple Mash Blended Straight Whiskey. One of the most recognizable, traditional American Whiskey distilleries has really stepped up their whiskey releases beyond Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey and we discuss how these new Bottled in Bond offerings fit into their portfolio. Interestingly, this may be the first time that the Kentucky boys have discussed Jack Daniel's on the Bourbon Lens. Were the guys impressed with the new whiskies? Tune in to find out. This episode of the Bourbon Lens is brought to you by MANSCAPED™, who is proving themselves to be the best in men's below-the-waist grooming. Their products are precision-engineered tools and are designed specifically for maintaining and taking care of your family jewels. MANSCAPED's™ Performance Package the ultimate men's hygiene bundle and what we recommend to our followers! Get 20% Off and Free Shipping with the code BOURBONLENS at MANSCAPED.com. That's 20% off with free shipping at www.MANSCAPED.com and use code BOURBONLENS. Unlock your confidence and always use the right tools for the job with MANSCAPED™. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens About the Product Launch & Full Press Release Jack Daniel's Launches First Super Premium Line Extension in 25 Years, Jack Daniel's Bonded and Jack Daniel's Triple Mash. Jack Daniel's two new Bottled-In-Bond whiskeys premiere as first two permanent expressions in the brand's new Bonded Series Lynchburg, Tennessee (May 3, 2022) – The Jack Daniel Distillery introduces Jack Daniel's Bonded Tennessee Whiskey and Jack Daniel's Triple Mash Blended Straight Whiskey as the first two permanent expressions in the brand's new Bonded Series. The Bonded Series honors the whiskey making excellence of the iconic Jack Daniel Distillery and will be a permanent extension in the Jack Daniel's Family of Brands. Both Jack Daniel's Bonded and Triple Mash are Bottled-in-Bond at 100 proof (50% abv), with packaging inspired by the original design of the 1895 Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey bottle. As stipulated by the Bottled in Bond Act of 1897, a bonded whiskey must be distilled by a single distiller during a single season, matured in a government bonded warehouse for at least four years and bottled at 100 proof. "The Jack Daniel Distillery has been making exceptional American whiskey to the highest standards for generations, before and after the Bottled in Bond Act, dating back to the days of Mr. Jack himself," said Chris Fletcher, Jack Daniel's Master Distiller. "Jack Daniel's Bonded and Triple Mash are a nod to our heritage with a touch of innovation and craftsmanship. These whiskeys are another opportunity for both our friends and new drinkers to explore and discover everything Jack Daniel's has to offer." Jack Daniel's Bonded Tennessee Whiskey Jack Daniel's Bonded is Jack's time-honored recipe of 80% corn, 12% malted barley, and 8% rye. Barrels were hand selected for their unique and particular characteristics of deeper color, flavor, and aroma, which bring a darker, richer, and more oak-forward character to Jack Daniel's Bonded. It is a big, bold Tennessee Whiskey at 100 proof with layered notes of caramel, rich oak, and spice giving way to a pleasantly lingering finish. Jack Daniel's Triple Mash Blended Straight Whiskey Jack Daniel's Triple Mash is a blend of three straight Bottled-In-Bond whiskeys – 60% Jack Daniel's Tennessee Rye, 20% Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey and 20% Jack Daniel's American Malt. Each expression is distilled in Lynchburg, Tennessee, in the same distilling season, aged to the stipulations of the Bottled in Bond Act, then blended and bottled at 100 proof. It's a remarkable whiskey that can only be crafted by a complete distillery like Jack Daniel's. Jack Daniel's Triple Mash has pleasant notes of honey, malt, and soft oak leading to a long lasting well-rounded finish. Jack Daniel's Bonded and Triple Mash will be available across the US beginning in May with international mark

173: Bourbon and Blockchain with Party Horses NFT
They're taking the bourbon craze into the world of crypto, blockchain, and NFT. Party Horses joins Bourbon Lens to demystify the NFT (non-fungible token) and discuss how the bourbon community can embrace the blockchain to gain exclusive access to rare bottles and once in a lifetime events. Party Horses co-founder Chris Wiedmar is our guest for this week's episode. Party Horses is a collection of 3.2k NFTs on the Ethereum Mainnet. Their vision is to create a future where NFTs create access and special experiences in perpetuity, backed by great art and community. NFTs in this project are produced as generative artwork that lives on a blockchain. Using an Ethereum smart contract that is created through computer code, algorithms uniquely assign traits to each piece of art during a process called "minting." The Party Horses NFT is an evolving NFT that will generate real-world benefits, from bottles of rare bourbon to exclusive event access. Originally from Louisville, Kentucky, the horse racing capital of the world, the Party Horses team came together around very simple goals: "Use Web3 for good, have fun, create beauty, destabilize the disappointing, and collaborate with others to build amazing things." Their highly-anticipated Season One drop included tickets to a Derby weekend party on May 6th, in Louisville. Party Horses is committed to providing every NFT holder (ages 21+) with the ability to secure a bottle of bourbon through Maker's Mark - their whiskey partner. Learn about their roadmap further on their website here. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens Images and Logo Credit to: PARTY HORSES Show Links: PARTY HORSES Party Horses Is Bringing Limited-Edition Bourbon And Access To Derby Weekend Through NFTs - BevNET.com Party Horses to celebrate Kentucky Derby | Food Engineering Inside Party Horses' $1.3M mint — and what comes next PARTY HORSES: AND WE ARE OFF TO THE RACES Nonfungible.com - Bourbon + Racing + NFTs = Party Horses! Maker's Mark's NFT Bottle Collab: Everything You Need To Know How Bored Ape Yacht Club NFTs Became $400K Status Symbols

172: The Bourbon and Seltzer Crazes Collide - The Local Seltzery NULU
The Bourbon Lens is traveling to some Louisville hotspots over the next few months and we are stopping in one of the newest spots in NuLu (New Louisville). This week we are at The Local Seltzery as we gear up for Derby Week. This Seltzery is a high tech mixology bar which leverages unique natural flavors with booze and carbonated water to craft hard seltzers. And, just in time for Derby, they've added a Bourbon Mint Julep Seltzer to their lineup. We sit down with The Local Seltzery's General Manager Tyler Sparkman as we discuss the concept of a Seltzery, the changing landscape of the booze business, and how a Seltzery is positioning itself in the heart of Bourbon Country. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens Show Links: The local Seltzery These Kentucky brothers are looking to 'redefine what a seltzer can be' with NuLu store @thelocalseltzery • Instagram photos and videos The local Seltzery on Facebook Untangling the Complex History of One of America's Most Popular Cocktails—The Mint Julep Exactly what is a Seltzery? - Hard Seltzer News Every Drink Is Seltzer Now The Complete Hard Seltzer Guide North America $14.23 Bn Hard Seltzer Markets, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2017-2021 & 2022-2027

171: Building a Bourbon Brand with More Than a "Puncher's Chance"
"IT'S (BOURBON) TIME!" with Bruce Buffer and Umberto Luchini as we talk about their brand Puncher's Chance Bourbon and its two current offerings. If you don't know Bruce Buffer, you likely know his voice and his iconic trademarked introduction; "IT'S TIME!"®. He's the official Voice of the Octagon for the UFC and he is putting his name and reputation behind this bourbon brand that he loves so much. We are also joined by the brand's founder, Umberto Luchini. He's an Italian with tons of experience in the international spirits world as well as Kentucky Bourbon; he previously helped grow the Campari Group portfolio, which also included Wild Turkey. Don't miss this episode and get hyped to grab a bottle of this Kentucky Straight Bourbon when you see it on shelves or online. Download or stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott & JakeBourbon Lens About Bruce Buffer: "The Voice of Mixed Martial Arts" Bruce Buffer, an entrepreneur, announcer, entertainer, and motivational speaker who excites the public about products and events he represents, is perhaps best known for introducing events worldwide with his internationally trademarked phrase, IT'S TIME!® Most will recognize Bruce as the official "Voice of the Octagon" for the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) since 1997. He currently appears on all ESPN -televised UFC events and Pay Per Views. Bruce also appears and announces for many other sporting events such as the NBA, NFL, NHL, MLB, various collegiate sporting events such as the University Of Kentucky's March Madness event, as well as Fantasy and Esports events. On the virtual side, Bruce is a feature character in nine UFC video games released since 2014 (ex., CRAVE, THQ, UFC) and is the model and voice for the boxing character Tony T. in the Ready 2 Rumble Boxing Round 2 video game by Midway. Among numerous TV and movie appearances, Bruce has appeared with Robin Williams and Billy Crystal on "Friends"; on HBO's "Entourage"; alongside Antonio Banderas in the motion picture "Play it to the Bone," and Will Ferrell in the comedy "Holmes & Watson"; as well as performed voice over work for Clint Eastwood's 2004 Best Picture Oscar award winner "Million Dollar Baby." A ranked professional poker player, Bruce has been seen on NBC's Poker After Dark, the Travel Channel's popular "World Poker Tour TV Show," and co-stars in the critically acclaimed instructional poker DVD "All In" along with poker pro Phil Gordon. Bruce manages his entrepreneurial ventures through Buffer Enterprises, Inc., as well as guides and manages the career of his brother Michael Buffer, including the creation, design, and management of all product and promotional licensing surrounding Michael Buffer's world famous LET'S GET READY TO RUMBLE® trademark phrase, which has grown into a major international enterprise, approaching $500,000,000 in retail sales worldwide. Bruce's latest project is Puncher's Chance™ pure Kentucky Straight Bourbon, inspired by two great American traditions: whiskey, and fighting for what we believe in. Bruce explains: "A puncher's chance means that anyone has the potential to succeed, whatever the odds, if he or she works for it. Being the underdog is often the greatest strength. Puncher's Chance is the bourbon for everyone who believes and lives that credo." About Umberto Luchini Founder & Proprietor, Wolf Spirit Umberto Luchini (pronounced: oom-BEAR-toe loo-KEE-nee) is the founder and proprietor of Wolf Spirit, a different kind of spirits company started in a former Eugene, Oregon laundromat (Nanny's Wash & Dry, in fact). Wolf Spirit brands include Puncher's Chance Bourbon, Blood x Sweat x Tears Vodka, Bosscal Mezcal and Tom of Finland Organic Vodka from Finland. Umberto was born in Milan, Italy into a small, tightly-knit family. He attended school in London, worked in France, became jobless after 9/11, and took a low-paying job with a great brand: Campari (Monaco). Umberto rose through the marketing ranks, ultimately moving to San Francisco in 2004, where he resides today as an American citizen. Umberto worked with Campari America for 17 years, during which time he forme

170: How Michter's Distillery is Driving the Resurgence of Rye Whiskey
We are on location at the Michter's Distillery in Shively (Louisville) Kentucky for this episode. We sit down with Dan McKee and Andrea Wilson and share an incredible rye whiskey flight as we discuss the brand, its origin, and its growth into the future. We discuss Dan's role as Master Distiller and Andrea's as Master of Maturation as we enjoy this flight of a single barrel Rye, a 10 Year Rye, Barrel Strength Rye, and Toasted Barrel Strength Rye Whiskey. Download this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott, Jake, & MichaelBourbon Lens About Dan McKee: Born and bred in Indiana, Michter's Master Distiller Dan McKee moved to Kentucky to pursue his dream of making whiskey. He began his career in the bourbon industry as a Distillery Operator at Jim Beam Distillery in Clermont, Kentucky. After two years of hands-on experience making some of the industry's leading bourbons and ryes, he was promoted to Distillery Supervisor at Booker Noe Distillery, where he worked for seven years. At that distillery, Dan reported to Pam Heilmann and gained valuable experience in all aspects of whiskey distilling. After being brought to Michter's Distillery by Ms. Heilmann, he played an integral role in assisting with the construction of the company's new Shively Distillery, and along with Ms. Heilmann and Andrea Wilson he built the company's current production team. Dan has continued to expand the company's operations with his work to bring Michter's Fort Nelson distillery online with its legendary pot stills and cypress wood fermenters from the original Michter's Pennsylvania operation. With his expertise in grain, Dan has played a key role in working with our local farmers to coordinate the planting schedules on Michter's 205-acre parcel in Springfield, Kentucky. Having graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University, Dan serves as Michter's technical representative on the Kentucky Distillers' Association. About Andrea Wilson: Andrea is Michter's Master of Maturation as well as its Executive Vice President - General Manager. As Michter's Master of Maturation, Andrea manages barrel specifications, barrel procurement, heat cycling and temperature monitoring during aging, tracking maturation of barrels, whiskey filtration in preparation for bottling, and innovation to continue to improve the aging process. Becoming the first woman to ever serve as Chair of the Kentucky Distillers' Association is among the many honors achieved by Andrea during her illustrious career. Andrea is admired for her accomplishments in the whiskey industry and has been involved in all aspects of making Michter's whiskeys. Before joining Michter's, Andrea spent over ten years with Diageo in various whiskey related positions including Director of Distillation and Maturation, North America - overseeing both the U.S. and Canadian distillation and maturation programs. Prior to her departure from Diageo she was the company's Director of Whiskey Strategy for North American operations. She holds a Master of Chemical Engineering degree from the University of Louisville, and she has been highlighted in the KET television documentary, Kentucky Bourbon Tales: Distilling the Family Business. About Michter's Process: CooperageWe Pay Careful Attention to the Wood Used in the Construction of Our Barrels. We are specifying wood that has been thoroughly and properly dried, sometimes for as long as 18-48 months, in order to enhance the natural properties of the wood which allow for better flavor and to reduce the levels of tannin imparted to the whiskey. Toasting & CharringThe Barrels Made to Our Specifications Are Toasted Before Charring. Toasting a barrel before charring helps to make the wood's sugars more accessible. These sugars caramelize and concentrate to form the "red line" in the barrel stave cross-sections due to the heat, ultimately adding more flavor and color to the whiskey as it seeps through the char to the caramel red line. Low Entry ProofWe Enter Our Rye and Bourbon Into Barrels at 103 Proof (51.5% ABV). Although the typical industry entry proof is 125 proof, we believe that the lower 103 proof (51.5% ABV) level – which was histor

169: Don't Miss Your Chance at This Frey Ranch Single Barrel Bourbon
In conjunction with the release of this podcast, we are launching our very first Single Barrel of Frey Ranch Distillery's Four Grain Bourbon. This is a 5 year, 4 grain, 129.36 proof, grain-to-glass Nevada Bourbon that was hand selected with the Bourbon Lens team and the owners, Colby and Ashley Frey. It is available now through our online retailer, SharedPour.com, and shipping to nearly 40 states. The guys are joined by Colby and Ashley Frey to discuss this single barrel pick, to catch up on the distillery since our last episode (way back in April 2020; Episode 66), and to talk about what's coming next from the Freys. Don't miss your shot at trying Frey Ranch Distillery, as they are currently only available in Nevada and California retailers and online. Also, for every bottle sold, Bourbon Lens will be donating $2 to Frey Ranch's Women + Whiskey Campaign supporting Pinocchio's Moms on the Run – an organization that provides financial and emotional support for women battling breast cancer. Buy now! Show Notes: Purchase this Limited, Single Barrel Frey Ranch Bourbon selected by Bourbon Lens team here. Frey Ranch 66: Whiskey Farmer - Ground to Glass Bourbon Frey Ranch Donates $10,000 to Moms on the Run - Bourbon Lens SharedPour.com Frey Ranch Farmers + Distillers

168: Exploring the World of Japanese Whisky with The Daily Dram
We are venturing away from American Whiskey in an effort to expand our palates and appreciation for single malt whisky. Brandon from @TheDailyDram on Instagram stops in with a flight of Japanese Whiskies, including some of his favorites, Hakushu 12 Year and Yamasaki 18 Year. Brandon teaches us a little about the history of whisky in Japan as well as the terroir and regional styles of Japanese Whisky. Have you tried Japanese Whisky before? Be sure to let us know your favorites and thoughts about this type of world whisky. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott & JakeBourbon Lens

167: Exploring Pennsylvania Rye with Dad's Hat Whiskey
Our guest this week is Herman C. Mihalich, Founder and Distiller of Dad's Hat Rye Whiskey at Mountain Laurel Spirits, LLC in Pennsylvania. Find out what makes Pennsylvania Rye different and how Pennsylvania contributed to the birth and rise of the earliest American Whiskies. Download this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott, Jake, & MichaelBourbon Lens Show Links: Dad's Hat Spirit of Tradition: Dad's Hat Pennsylvania Rye Whiskey Pennsylvania whiskey revival: Distillers turn to heritage grains like Rosen rye - On top of Philly news The Best Rye Whiskeys Will Spice Up Your Home Bar | Saveur Dad's Hat Pennsylvania Straight Rye Whiskey Rating and Review | Wine Enthusiast 2 Pennsylvania whiskeys made expert Fred Minnick's Top American Whiskeys of 2021 | Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Ranking Pennsylvania's rye whiskeys | Drink | Pittsburgh Farm to Bottle Whiskey Brings Back Lost Variety of Rye | Delaware Valley University How They Make Rye Whiskey the Right Way How One Distiller Is Looking to Revive Pennsylvania-Style Rye - Eater

166: St. Patrick's Day with J.J. Corry Irish Whiskey
We're celebrating St. Patrick's Day and Irish Whiskey all week and we are kicking it off with J.J. Corry Irish Whiskey. We are joined by Louise McGuane, Founder and Whiskey Bonder of J.J. Corry. You'll learn a little history of Irish Whiskey, Louise's efforts to revive the practice of Whiskey Bonding, and J.J. Corry's extensive whiskey and barrel inventory for future releases. And, as a bonus for our Kentucky Bourbon fans, we taste through the latest release from Kentucky Owl. Kentucky Owl and Louise teamed up to blend a unique Kentucky Bourbon for their St. Patrick's Limited Edition. Download this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott, Jake, & MichaelBourbon Lens About J.J. Corry J.J. Corry is Ireland's first modern Whiskey Bonder. As a Bonder, J.J. Corry sources new make spirit and mature Irish Whiskey, to age, finish and blend on the McGuane family farm on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way. Founded by Louise McGuane in 2017, J.J. Corry has a multi-award winning portfolio of small batch expressions. J.J. Corry Facts Irish Whiskey is currently in a renaissance period, after a long recovery following the industry's collapse in the 1930s. It was the world's fastest-growing spirits category over the past decade. As a Bonder, J.J. Corry does not distill. Founder, Louise McGuane sources new make and mature spirit from all over Ireland to mature in casks she acquires directly from distilleries, wineries, breweries and bodegas around the world. A cult favourite amongst Irish Whiskey fans in Europe, J.J. Corry is recently distributed across the US and is looking to reach new consumers. J.J. Corry has the most comprehensive library of Irish Whiskey flavors in existence and Louise is a curator of casks, and archivist of the depth and breadth of Irish Whiskey today. Bonding used to be commonplace in Ireland, but the practice died out in the 1930s when the Irish Whiskey industry collapsed. Louise McGuane revived this piece of Irish Whiskey history and is now Ireland's only Whiskey Bonder. About J.J. Corry Whiskey Lineup: The Gael -We released Batch No.3 of our award winning flagship blend, The Gael in 2021. A blend of Malt and Grain Whiskey, Gael is the perfect marriage of Irish Whiskey flavours. Comprised of some of the oldest whiskeys in our library of flavours, The Gael is the perfect representation of our fruit bomb house style with layers of complexity. The Hanson - Our signature Grain Blend, The Hanson is sweet and fruit forward with bright citrus, vanilla and deep oak notes. Created by founder Louise McGuane with refreshing cocktails in mind, this bright and slightly spicy whiskey shines through in a highball, but is also delicious sipped by itself or with ice. About Irish Whiskey Irish Whiskey is currently in a renaissance period, after a long recovery following the industry's collapse in the 1930s. It was the world's fastest-growing spirits category over the past decade. Irish Whiskey is known and loved for it's milder flavor profile than that of its Scotch neighbors. Irish Whiskey is typically unpeated, with consumers drawn to its bright, fruit forward and accessible flavours. Show Links: J.J. Corry Irish Whiskey Louise McGuane: Ireland's First Modern Whiskey Bonder - Whisky Advocate By Tradition The Irish Whiskey Industry Has Been All Male. . . Until Louise McGuane Founded Her Own Brand Louise McGuane - Whiskies of the World The (nearly) Lost Art of Irish Whiskey Bonding | IrishSpirit Buy J.J. Corry Online Stoli Group Kentucky Owl Releases St. Patrick's Limited Edition Bourbon Whiskey - BevNET.com Review: Kentucky Owl St. Patrick's Limited Edition Bourbon Whiskey – Robb Report High spirits before whiskey's US launch | Ireland | The Sunday Times Kentucky Owl Kentucky Owl St. Patrick's Limited Edition Bourbon Review - Paste Kentucky Owl 2022 St. Patrick's Edition | WhiskyCast 4 Delicious Irish Whiskey Cocktails To Celebrate St. Paddy's Day | Man of Many

165: Two Whiskey Legends Collaborate To Create Unique Kentucky Bourbon: Legent
The American Whiskey Ambassador for the James B. Beam Distilling Company joins Bourbon Lens today to talk about all things Beam and we enjoy some pours of Legent Bourbon with Beth Burrows. We discuss the origin story of this unique finished Kentucky Bourbon which we've not tasted since way back in episode 11 of the Bourbon Lens. It's been a while since that episode and we were excited to be re-introduced to Legent which may have been slightly ahead of its time nearly 3 years ago. Download this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, gain early and exclusive access to our barrel picks, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott, Jake, & MichaelBourbon Lens About Legent Bourbon: Legent® is a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey partially finished in wine and sherry casks. But it's more than that. It pushes the boundaries for how bourbons can be created while remaining true to the core of bourbon's principles. It's a collaboration between two whiskey legends – Fred Noe & Shinji Fukuyo – and two unique styles of whiskey making. Legent has brought together over 225 years of bourbon-making heritage and nearly 100 years of Japanese whisky artistry. It's a unique collaboration between two of the world's most revered whiskey makers. And just like a traditional bourbon, Legent starts with premium grains, like corn, rye and malted barley, and is aged in select white oak barrels. Three different types of barrels are used to create the unique flavor profile of Legent. Each one imparts its own unique characteristics to this boundary-pushing bourbon. Since his birth, Master Distiller Fred Noe's life has revolved around the distillery in one way or another. Always looking for new challenges, Legent was a chance to do something that nobody's ever done before. Create a unique bourbon by taking everything from his family's 225 years of making bourbon and combining it with the craft of Japanese blending. From Japan to Scotland to Kentucky, Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo has traveled the world over learning, studying and perfecting the art of blending whiskey and distilling spirits. For him, Legent presented numerous unique challenges. Bourbon isn't a spirit that's blended routinely. He also wanted to honor Fred's family heritage and produce a unique bourbon of the highest quality. After years of tasting, testing and refining the recipe with Fred, Legent has become another step in Shinji's pursuit of mastery. Like any bourbon, it all starts with the grains. But unlike any other bourbon, how Legent ends up in your glass is a completely unique process. Fred and Shinji each played an integral, collaborative role in the creation of this truly unique bourbon. For generations, seven actually, Fred's family has been making bourbons loved the world over. Each starts with premium grains, like corn, rye and malted barley, and is aged in select white oak barrels so it can become a traditional bourbon. For most bourbons, this is where their journeys would end. But not Legent. Legent is aged again in sherry and red-wine casks where it picks up several unique flavors. Then Shinji meticulously blends these secondary-finished bourbons with more Kentucky straight bourbon. Blending allows Shinji to balance, add and unlock layers of complex flavors. Whether you're being served Legent by your favorite bartender or you're pouring it for friends at home, this unique bourbon's distinct flavor profile comes to life when the first drop hits the glass. That's why Fred and Shinji collaborated and used generations of knowledge, skill and technique to make sure every sip of Legent is worth savoring and sharing. About Beth Burrows: American Whiskey Ambassador - James B. Beam Distilling Company A New York native, Beth has led a life rooted in hospitality. Raised by a chef, in a family of educators, she started developing her palate early on. Through the years, she found her passion for educating and public speaking- especially on the topics closest to her heart. Beth's love of whiskey came many years later while she was working behind the stick in Louisville, Kentucky. It was there that she quickly fell in love with the history and the chemistry behind American Whiskey and s

164: Crafting a Five Bottle Whiskey Bar with One Distillery
The guys challenge each other to create a diverse whiskey bar but only using one Distillery. Find out which Distillery each of us select and our logic behind the choice. And one of us maybe gets a little too creative with their choice. Does it follow the rules? Let us know which Distillery you'd pick to craft the perfect "Five Bottle Whiskey Bar". Download this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for everyone who has continued to support us. We must give a huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott, Jake, & MichaelBourbon Lens *Image Credit: Lux Rox Distillers and MGPI

163: Exploring New York Rye Whiskey with Fort Hamilton Distillery
We're discussing New York Rye Whiskey this week with Alex Clark, Founder of Fort Hamilton Distillery in Brooklyn. We taste through 4 offerings from Fort Hamilton, including Single Barrel Rye, Double Barrel Rye, Double Barrel Bourbon, and a private selection of Rye. We enjoyed chatting with Alex about his background in the cocktail world and what drove him to start a rye whiskey distillery in New York. If you are looking for a new rye whiskey, grab a bottle of Fort Hamilton. Download this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for everyone who has continued to support us. We must give a huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott, Jake, & MichaelBourbon Lens About Fort Hamilton Distillery: Based in Brooklyn and surrounded by landmarks of the Revolutionary Way, Fort Hamilton Distillery started barreling whiskey in 2016. On a mission to recapture America's finest spirits, we celebrate America's original whiskey style, New York Rye. This style was the most popular libation in America pre-prohibition and serves as the base for the most discerning classic American cocktails. We honor the authentic tradition of New York Rye by using zero corn in our mash bills and by avoiding colorings, flavorings, or adulterating our whiskeys in any way. HEARTS OF OAK In August 1775, Alexander Hamilton's Hearts of Oak Militia orchestrated a daring raid on lower Manhattan. Under fire from HMS Asia, they seized and repurposed the battery of British cannons, thereafter forming America's first artillery company. THE PROCESS Our whiskeys are barreled at a low proof for a smoother profile that emphasizes the rye grain over the barrel, promoting a softer, fruit-driven style of rye. It is non-chill filtered & aged in heavily charred new American white oak barrels on the Brooklyn waterfront for years. As is tradition for New York ryes, the barrel house is heated in winter to augment the aging process, thus creating an incredibly nuanced and historic whiskey. THE WHISKEY Fort Hamilton Rye Whiskey is distilled purely from rye grain, malted barley, yeast & water in a traditional New York-style with zero corn in the mash bill. It is barreled at a low proof & always non-chill filtered to achieve a beautifully balanced, bold, rich & round rye whiskey expression. Distilled from honest ingredients without the addition of flavoring or coloring, Fort Hamilton is equally at home neat or on the rocks as it is in a deeply authentic Old Fashioned or Manhattan. DOUBLE BARREL BOURBON STRAIGHT BOURBON WHISKEY BLEND PRICING Age: At least 3 years Cooperage: 53 gallon Char #3 American White Oak Mash bills: 70% NY Corn / 25% NY Rye / 5% NY Malted Barley. 60% Corn / 36% Rye / 4% Malted Barley (IN) Barreled at: 120 proof Bottled at: 92 proof / 46% ABV Non-Chill Filtered Our High Rye Bourbon barrels are individually tasted & blended in small batches to achieve an amazingly smooth and rich bourbon with gorgeous notes of Vanilla, Caramel & Cocoa. SINGLE BARREL RYE WHISKEY STRAIGHT RYE WHISKEY Age: At least 3 1⁄2 years Cooperage: 30 gallon Char #3 American White Oak Mash bill: 90% New York State Rye Grain & 10% Malted Barley Barreled at: 120 proof Bottled at: 90 proof / 45% ABV Non-Chill Filtered Only our most unique barrels are hand selected for our flagship offering. With zero corn in the mash, our perfectly balanced, soft, rich & round style appeals to all American whiskey lovers. Fort Hamilton proudly produces traditional New York style whiskeys originating from the revolutionary war era. Distilled from the purest ingredients, with no additional coloring, flavoring or excessive filtration. Join us in The Spirit of Revolution. DOUBLE BARREL RYE WHISKEY STRAIGHT RYE WHISKEY BLEND Age: At least 3 years Cooperage: 30 & 53 gallon Char #3 American White Oak Mash bills: 90% Rye / 10% Malted Barley (NY). 95% Rye / 5% Malted Barley (IN) Barreled at: 120 proof Bottled at: 92 proof / 46% ABV Non-Chill Filtered We painstakingly blend our 2 barrel types and sizes together to achieve small batch perfection. This Classic Rye provides the perfect backbone for cocktails whilst offering luscious honeyed notes and a long finish for sipping. PRIVATE BARREL / CASK STRENGTH RYE WHISKEY Age: At leas

162: Inside The Bourbon Room at the World Famous Churchill Downs
The world famous Churchill Downs is home to Matt Winn's Steakhouse and we were invited to a one-of-a-kind bourbon experience inside its jaw-dropping "The Bourbon Room". Tim Knittel is the Official Bourbon Ambassador of Churchill Downs and has curated a tasting and dining experience for us as we sit down to record at the historic racetrack. We taste through a flight of private selection bourbons from the restaurant's impressive bourbon inventory. We hope you enjoy this podcast as we discuss history, the Kentucky Bourbon lifestyle, culinary experiences, and more. Download this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. About Tim Knittel: Tim Knittel is the first Official Bourbon Ambassador of Churchill Downs where he developed the Bourbon program for the new Matt Winn's Steakhouse. He has over 15 years of experience in the Bourbon industry including managing the culinary and VIP hospitality programs at the Woodford Reserve Distillery. In 2016, he founded Distilled Living which provides Bourbon education, tourism and consulting services and is the world's largest combined virtual and in-person Bourbon tastings company. He additionally holds the title of Adjunct Professor of Bourbon Studies at Midway University where he teaches tourism and hospitality courses with a focus on KY Bourbon tourism. His roles and work have been featured in Maxim, Forbes, Southern Living, American Whiskey Magazine, Good Morning America, NBC News, Washington Post, The Bourbon Review, Wonderlust and, now, Bourbon Lens Podcast. About Executive Sous Chef Stephen Dunn: Chef Dunn has a wealth of culinary experience around Louisville where he's trained at Sullivan University, and prior to Matt Winn's, has been tapped to head the kitchen in some of Louisville's top culinary hotspots. Chef Dunn previously lead the kitchen of Equus & Jack's Lounge, The Hub, and Sullivan's Tap House in St. Matthews. He embraces Southern cuisine, bourbon, local ingredients, and Kentucky's heritage. About Matt Winn & Matt Winn's Steakhouse: Matt Winn attended his first Kentucky Derby, the first Kentucky Derby, in 1875 at the age of 14. Over the next 75 years, he served as a pioneer and innovator of horse racing at the iconic Churchill Downs Racetrack and his impact would change the landscape of the Kentucky Derby forever. Winn's passion for Churchill Downs is evident in the many traditions that we still hold dear today: the design of the coveted Derby Trophy, the official Mint Julep glass, the garland of roses, the singing of "My Old Kentucky Home" during the post parade and the pari-mutuel wagering system just to name a few. Matt Winn's Steakhouse pays homage to the legacy of Colonel Winn. Oh, if these walls could talk… Millionaires Row, the fabled Room 20 – Colonel Winn's private nook, Derby history – rich with lure and tall tales… to new beginnings forging new traditions. Matt Winn started it all. His treasured view is now in your gaze. Take a look around. From the endless veranda to a lap around the handsome bar. Cushy seating, incomparable service, tableside charcuterie and a bourbon selection that is second to none. It's all in front of you, but don't worry, we understand, your best bet is the show out the window. Show Links: Matt Winn's Steakhouse Churchill Downs Distilled Living Bourbon Studies Minor - Midway University Tourism MBA - Midway University Churchill Downs Chef Will Teach You How To Cook A Kentucky Derby Meal At Home Churchill Downs: Masterful Mixology: Woodford Reserve Spire and Mint Julep - Distilled Living Secrets of Bluegrass Chefs - Matt Winn's Steakhouse Studying Bourbon At Midway University - American Whiskey Magazine We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott, Jake, & MichaelBourbon Lens

161: Mashbill Matchup - Blanton's Bourbon vs E.H. Taylor Single Barrel
Buffalo Trace's mashbills #1 and #2 go head-to-head in this week's episode. We taste two solid single barrels; Blanton's and E.H. Taylor Single Barrel. Find out our thoughts on the house styles of Buffalo Trace Distillery and two hard to get bottles of bourbon. Download this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for everyone who has continued to support us. We must give a huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott, Jake, & MichaelBourbon Lens Show Links: Shop for Valentine's Gift Ideas on our Amazon Influencer Page (Note - we may make a small commission) Blanton's Bourbon 15 Things You Need to Know About Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon | VinePair Whiskey's Unlikeliest Unicorn | PUNCH Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon Was Born in Japan | VinePair Blanton's 3 Bourbon Whiskey Expressions -- Explained, Rated, & Ranked Here's What $100,000 Worth of Blanton's Bourbon Looks Like The History Behind Blanton's Horse and Jockey Bottle Stoppers, and How to Collect Them All | VinePair Buffalo Trace Warns Buyers of Fraudulent Whiskey Being Sold Online Buffalo Trace Warns of Counterfeit Blanton's, Eagle Rare Sales Online | VinePair All 19 Brands From The Buffalo Trace Distillery, Ranked A Distillery Was Built And Left To Decay In The Middle Of Kentucky's Capitol City Whiskey Chronicles Of Edmund Taylor Jr., Part 1 - The Distiller Without Peer - The Whiskey Wash The World's Best Bourbon in 2020—According To The International Wine And Spirits Competition Tasting Notes On The 2020 "World's Best Bourbon"

160: Are These the Best 12 Year Old Barrel Proof Bourbons?
We're heating things up with 3 barrel proof bourbons that each are a dozen years old. We also discuss storing opened bottles long term and the bourbon and American Whiskey export market. Knob Creek 12 Year Cask Strength goes up against Elijah Craig Barrel Proof and Lux Row's Limited Edition 12 Year Double Barrel. How do they stack up? Download this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. Image Credit: Lux Row Distillers We are thankful for everyone who has continued to support us. We must give a huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott, Jake, & MichaelBourbon Lens

159: Is Bottled in Bond Important to the Modern Bourbon Drinker?
We're discussing Bottled in Bond bourbon this week, including whether this designation is still important in today's whiskey world. Whether the distillery is a major producer or a craft whiskey maker, the reasons for labeling their spirits as "bonded" will differ. But is this important for the consumer? We also line up 3 Bottled in Bond Kentucky Bourbons from some of the larger producers in the state. How do they hold up in a blind tasting and which is our favorite? Download this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for everyone who has continued to support us. We must give a huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott, Jake, & MichaelBourbon Lens Show Links: 'Bottled in bond' was created to protect drinkers in the 1800s. Now the label has a new appeal. - The Washington Post Bottled-in-Bond: How a 120-year-old liquor act is helping craft whiskey make a statement Cocktail Queries: What is Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon, and Why Should I Care? - Paste Why Every Drinker Should Know What Bottled-in-Bond Means Everything You Need to Know About Bottled in Bond Bourbon - Paste Why Bottled-in-Bond Whiskey Is the Best Deal In Booze Whisky of Life Blog - History of Bottled in Bond Whiskey Best Bottled-in-Bond Whiskey from Jim Beam, Wild Turkey and Dickel – Robb Report Bourbon History Month: Are there unofficial rules of drinking bourbon? 10 Best Bottles Of Bourbon Whiskey Between $10-$20, Ranked What Is Bottled-in-Bond Whiskey? The 10 Best Bottled-In-Bond Bourbons Under $100 Why Bottled-in-Bond Whiskey Is Important In Modern Times 11 of the Best Bang-for-Your-Buck Bottled-in-Bond Bourbons for 2021

158: The Top Double Oaked Bourbon to Buy Right Now
We're exploring 3 Double Oaked Bourbons this week, including Peerless, Woodford Reserve, and Starlight Distillery. We discuss the purpose of double oaking and why we believe that it elevates a bourbon to new levels. How do these three double oaked bourbons stack up? Be sure to let us know which double oaked bourbons we missed in this episode. Do you have a favorite Double Oaked Bourbon? Download this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for everyone who has continued to support us. We must give a huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott, Jake, & MichaelBourbon Lens Show Links: The Best New American Double-Barrel Whiskies Of 2021 - Maxim What's the Deal with Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Bourbon? Kentucky Peerless Distilling Releases A Double Oak Bourbon - The Whiskey Wash Review: Peerless Double Oak Bourbon Peerless Keeps Winning All the Whiskey Awards. Here's Why. - InsideHook 7 Easily Findable And Damn Fine Bourbons Under $70 - LEO Weekly

157: The Top Whiskey Trends and Brands to Watch in 2022
We're back together and discussing the top trends in whiskey that we are expecting for 2022 and beyond. We also discuss some trends that we wish would fizzle out and die. And finally, we have some thoughts on some distilleries and brands you should be watching for in 2022. Download this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you're there. We are thankful for everyone who has continued to support us. We must give a huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott, Jake, & MichaelBourbon Lens Show Links: Top 10 'Trending' Bourbon Whiskeys For 2022, Tasted & Ranked That Expensive Bourbon You Bought May Be a Fake - The New York Times The 15 Best Whiskeys to Drink in 2022 | VinePair Top Bourbon Brands Report 2022: Drinks International Castle & Key Distillery partners with RNDC to enter more states Most Popular Whiskey Brands in the US for 2022 | The Manual Bourbon Pricing Is Getting Out of Control, and Only the Consumers Can Stop It - Paste

156: Barrel Proof Bourbons from Buffalo Trace Distillery
The gang's all here and we've cracked open two heavy hitting, barrel proof bourbons from Buffalo Trace Distillery. We compare two Mashbill #1 Bourbons, including Stagg Jr (Batch 13: Fall, 2019 – 128.4 proof) and EH Taylor Barrel Proof (Batch 10; 2021, 127.3 proof). These bottles have skyrocketed in secondary marketplaces and have become rare sights on store shelves, but are they worth the price? Show Links: EH Taylor, Jr. Barrel Proof Stagg Jr. Colonel EH Taylor Jr Barrel Proof Releases Buffalo Trace Is Dropping the "Jr." from Stagg Jr. Bottles - Paste Stagg Jr. is Growing Up: Changes Coming for Batch 18 - The Bourbon Review Bourbon Pricing Is Getting Out of Control, and Only the Consumers Can Stop It - Paste Buffalo Trace Statue Image Courtesy of Buffalo Trace Distillery* We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott, Jake, & MichaelBourbon Lens

155: Westward Whiskey: Brewing and Distilling American Single Malt
Our guest this week is Miles Munroe, Lead Distiller for Westward Whiskey. Westward is reimagining Single Malt and adding an American Whiskey spin to elevate the category. American Single Malt Whiskey is a growing category and Westward is one to lead the charge as the United States moves towards well-defined standards of identity for the category. Miles brings a brewer's mentality to whiskey-making and goes above and beyond to craft high quality whiskies in Portland Oregon. Download this episode on your favorite podcast player by clicking here. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us in 2021. A huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott, Jake, & MichaelBourbon Lens ABOUT WESTWARD AMERICAN SINGLE MALT WHISKEY: Single Malt, reimagined. American whiskey, elevated. As the highest rated American Single Malt, Westward Whiskey began in 2004 with a vision: to make a distinctive American Single Malt inspired by the American Northwest and the culture, climate, and abundant natural resources that have earned the region such reverence and renown. From humble beginnings to its impressive footprint today, creating a bold, robust, and delicious American Single Malt has remained the team's true passion. Helmed by founders Thomas Mooney and Christian Krogstad, Westward is a trailblazer in the American craft spirits community, a leading voice for American Single Malt, and a co-founder of the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission. Westward's flagship family of whiskeys, which have earned high praise around the world (two Double Gold medals, San Francisco World Spirits Competition), are available nationwide and in select international markets, include the original Westward American Single Malt, Westward American Single Malt Stout Cask, and Westward American Single Malt Pinot Noir Cask. For more information go to www.WestwardWhiskey.com and follow @westwardwhiskey on Facebook or Instagram. ABOUT MILES MUNROE: Miles Munroe serves as the lead distiller of Westward Whiskey. Miles manages the distilling production team and ensures that every bottle of Westward is made to perfection. His day-to-day responsibilities include spearheading all blending sessions and supervising Westward's rigorous quality controls by signing off on all whiskies before both barreling and bottling. He also oversees all operations within the Westward warehouse in Clackamas, the company's 28,000 square foot facility that maintains an inventory of more than 3,000 barrels of aging whiskey at any given time. Miles joined Westward Whiskey in 2013 to increase production of the company's American Single Malt. He began as the company's only production distiller, making up to two barrels per week. Today, Miles manages a team of six distillers who collectively produce 25 barrels per week. Miles played an integral role in optimizing spirits manufacturing at Westward's new distillery, a 13,000 square facility in Southeast Portland which opened in 2015 and expanded whiskey capacity six-fold. During the planning and build- out process, Miles served as a critical distilling consultant, determining equipment needs, designing the work flow, and calculating capacity for product. Miles' aptitude for taste plays a key role in ensuring quality while also sparking his creativity. After developing a custom flavor wheel for Westward to properly define its profile, he was inspired by his brewing experience to incorporate stout beer into a cask finish, which naturally paired well with Westward's signature characteristics. This resulted in the brand's first-ever stout cask finish, a four-year aged Westward resting for eight months in an Imperial Stout barrel that will launch later this year. As all of the company's distillers do, Miles came to Westward with a background in brewing. He attended the American Brewers Guild and graduated from the institute's Science & Engineering of Brewing program before spending several years as a brewer in Portland, OR. It was during his time studying sensory analysis that he realized his talent for taste and flavor identification, a skill that has brought him to achieve great success as brewer and later a whiskey blender. Over the course of his career, he worked for Bridgeport Brewing, Lompoc Brewing, and Migration Brewing, all while focusing on his

154: Top Whiskies to Gift this Christmas Under $75
With Christmas right around the corner, we know there will be a few bottles of whiskey under the Christmas Tree this year. If you are playing Santa for your whiskey-loving friends & family, we have some great gift bottles you should check out. Whether it's a classic bourbon, something with some fancy packaging, or some whiskey that might be a little out of the norm, you're sure to find a bottle on our list that someone will love. Download this episode on your favorite podcast player by clicking here. Show Links: The Best Bottles Of Bourbon Under $100 To Give As A Gift The 30 Best Bourbons for Every Budget (2021) | VinePair The Best Expensive Bourbon Whiskeys To Give As A Gift This Year The Best Bourbons for Gifting, Mixing, and Straight-Up Sipping Holiday Gift Guide 2021: Best Whiskeys And Whiskies Made By Women We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott, Jake, & MichaelBourbon Lens

153: Meet Brian Nation, O'Shaughnessy Distilling's Irish Master Distiller
An American distillery with Irish heritage in its veins, O'Shaughnessy Distilling Company has engaged a modern legendary distiller of Irish Whiskey to grow a product line which embraces the best of both whiskey worlds. Combining a classic American Rye with two Irish Whiskies, Master Distiller Brian Nation is looking to put Minnesota on the world whiskey map. The O'Shaughnessy Family convinced Brian to leave an established and world-renowned Irish distillery to perfect his own passion project. Brian explains why he made this massive leap in his career in this episode, but in the words of Brian's mother, "What's for you, won't go by you." We hope you enjoy this episode as much as we did. We were honored to have Brian on the Bourbon Lens podcast. Download this episode on your favorite podcast player by clicking here. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott, Jake, & MichaelBourbon Lens About Keeper's Heart - O'Shaughnessy Distilling The Story O'Shaughnessy Distilling Company was founded with a belief that the spirit of family and friends, and our shared experiences together, provide us with deep connection and meaning in our lives. Our whiskey was created to celebrate the spirit of family, support our community, and leave a meaningful legacy for generations to come. We believe that the spirit of family is the strongest positive force in the world, and we are committed to celebrating the moments worth keeping. Several years ago, cousins Patrick and Michael O'Shaughnessy, along with Michael's father Gerry, were sharing a bottle of whiskey at the end of a long and joyous day at an O'Shaughnessy family reunion. They were reflecting on the importance of family; on how to make sure future generations stayed connected; and the legacy they wanted to leave. As conversation went deeper into the night and more whiskey was poured, they had a realization: the answer was right there in the glass. It was at that point they set out to create a whiskey that celebrated their Irish American heritage and the cousins set off to Ireland. They sent a chance email to whom they considered the finest Master Distiller in the world - Brian Nation – and much to their surprise, Brian responded and a meeting in Dublin was put on the books. That 30-minute meeting turned into a 5-hour meal as Michael, Patrick, Brian, and his wife Una, created an immediate connection. A new family was forming, and a vision was emerging: to blend the best of Irish and American whiskey traditions to create something entirely new. The Distillery The team set out to make their vision a reality, and while they procured some of the finest stocks of aged whiskey, they knew they needed to make their own. They needed a place where Brian, the legendary Master Distiller responsible for making some of the most renowned products on the market, could fulfill his desire to innovate and push the category beyond expectations. They began creating the O'Shaughnessy Distillery in an old potato factory right in the heart of their hometown of Minneapolis. At the heart of the world-class distillery are three beautiful copper pot stills, the key to making Irish style whiskey. The distillery opened to the public in Summer 2021 and boasts a guided education tour, a tasting room, multiple bar areas, private spaces for events, food service, and outdoor patio seating. The distillery is destined to become a home away from home for all whiskey lovers. The 30,000 square foot distillery houses more than 15,000 square feet dedicated entirely to the whiskey making process, including the signature component: three wondrous copper pot stills (SHOW NOTE: 8000 Liter Wash Still, 6000 Liter Feints Still, 6000 Liter Spirits Still or approximately 2113 Gallon Wash Still, 1585 Gallon Feints Still, and 1585 Gallon Spirits Still). The remainder of the distillery is comprised of the Keeper's Heart Whiskey Lounge, featuring unique shared spaces for people to come together and enjoy. From our Main Bar centered around our three copper pot stills, our Potato Bar, paying homage to our building's history and our Irish American heritage as well as our outdoor Spirits Garden and Rooftop Terrace. The Whiskey From this vision, team and place, Keeper's Heart Irish American Whis

152: Wheated Bourbon of the West with Wyoming Whiskey
Our guest this week is David DeFazio, co-founder of Wyoming Whiskey. We discuss building a distillery on a ranch and making whiskey in Wyoming. David is a former lawyer turned whiskey maker and has a wealth of experience in working hard, solving problems, and crafting whiskey. We also want to give a huge shoutout to Bob Cutler of Novio's Bistro in Bangor Maine for connecting us with Wyoming Whiskey. He's a long-time supporter of the show and of Wyoming Whiskey and we are so excited that we were able to collaborate for an episode. We hope you enjoy this week's episode and if you have a chance to try Wyoming Whiskey, let us know what you think! We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott, Jake, & MichaelBourbon Lens About Wyoming Whiskey Based in Kirby, Wyoming, Wyoming Whiskey has a simple goal: to create America's next great bourbon. The company and product is a collaboration between its partners and 97,818 square miles of Wyoming. The Mead family first came to Wyoming as ranchers in 1890 and the state defines them, and their whiskey. They use the finest corn, wheat, barley, and water from the Big Horn Basin and promote Wyoming's natural and human resources. Every drop of this bourbon is 100% Wyoming. When was WW founded? 2006 Who are it's founders? Brad & Kate Mead, 4th generation Wyoming cattle ranchers, and David DeFazio. All of the founders currently reside in Jackson, but the distillery is at the Mead Ranch in Kirby, WY. How many styles does Wyoming have? 6 in the main lineup Small Batch (flagship, highest quantity produced and sold) Outryder (Straight American Whiskey - WW's take on a rye) Single Barrel (top 1% of their liquid) Double Cask Barrel Strength National Parks Limited Edition Other limited release offerings they've done: Wide Open Spaces collection and some Wyoming-only releases in limited batches such as Stargazer, Thunder Basin and Wilderness. What are some unique factors that set Wyoming Whiskey apart in the industry? #1: WW uses non-GMO grains, including corn, wheat, barley, and rye, all sourced from a local WY farmer named Brent Rageth. Part of WW's culture is to draw upon the natural environment in making their product. Genetically modified grains are, to an extent, unnatural. And for that reason, they will only use natural seed when raising their crops in Byron, Wyoming. An experienced farmer easily works around the challenges presented by non-genetically modified crops. #2: Wyoming Whiskey does not source any alcohol. Every drop in our bottle comes from grains grown in Wyoming, which are cooked, fermented, distilled, barreled and bottled in Kirby, Wyoming. All of our grains come from Rageth Farms in Byron, Wyoming. WW's water comes from a mile-deep limestone aquifer 40 miles to the north of our distillery. This makes their product 100% Wyoming. In an age where a vast number of brands are taking the easier, cheaper and faster route of sourcing bulk whiskey, WW prefers to put in the extra time and effort to do things the right way. #3: Our environment: Wyoming is a special place. And as mentioned previously, our maturation environment is the most unique in the industry. On the hottest of days in the summer, the top of our warehouse can reach 132 degrees and in the depth of winter it will hit 0 degrees. Where else is a whiskey exposed to such extreme temperatures without moving an inch? WW Barrels experience the extreme temperature variations of the high basin between the Absaroka and Bighorn Mountains. Temperatures reach 135° at the height of the warehouse during the summer and fall precipitously to 5° degrees in the depths of Winter. In the summertime, warehouse temperatures can swing 20 – 30 degrees and facilitate greater whiskey and wood interaction. How does the unique terroir of Kirby, WY and its temperature fluctuations impact the development of WW? WW does not use temperature controlled warehouses. As a result, they are at the mercy of the environment. Their maturation environment is arguably the most unique in the whiskey industry because of it's violent temperature swings. Diurnal temperature swings can be over 50 degrees in a day, which results in a more dynamic maturation environment in every barrel. Given the thermal mass in each war

151: Talnua Distillery's Unique American Single Pot Still Whiskey
Our guests this week are the founders of Talnua Distillery in Arvada Colorado. Patrick and Meagan Miller fell in love with the traditionally Irish, Single Pot Still Whiskey on a honeymoon trip to Ireland. They aimed to recreate the style of whiskey featuring malted and unmalted barley, but with an American twist. Talnua created the first Single Pot Still distillery outside of Ireland. They wanted to bring this style of whiskey to America and imbue it with the nation's terroir while honoring Gaelic distilling traditions, the immigrant soul, and the pioneering spirit of the American people. Enjoy this week's episode and check out this newer style of American Whiskey. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott & JakeBourbon Lens About the Talnua Brand: In 2017, we embarked on a mission to define a new chapter of American whiskey with the introduction of our American Single Pot Still Whiskey. True to gaelic-style distilling practices, and unique to the new world, our spirits are produced using a mashbill of raw and malted barley and triple distilled in copper pot stills. Located on the Front Range of the Colorado Rocky Mountains, the altitude, changing seasons, crystal clear mountain water, and local barley all lend a uniquely American terroir to our spirits. About the Founders: Patrick Miller Founder, President & Head Distiller: Denver, CO. Patrick began his distilling career at Breckenridge Distillery's Distillation and Production School in June of 2015. In August of 2015, he started working as a Distiller at Stranahan's Colorado Whiskey. After spending nearly three years on recipe development, brewing, and distilling for Talnua, Patrick distilled the first batch of Single Pot Still whiskey in the US in 2018. Prior work includes: Chemist, Fluids Engineer, and Database Systems Manager for oil and gas companies. {Brewing, Distilling, Barreling, Bottling, Sales} Meagan Miller Founder, Vice President & Sales: Denver, CO. Meagan ("the Nose") has worked with Patrick every step of the way on brewing, distilling, and recipe development. Meagan's background is regulatory compliance, rule making, and policy development. This government affairs experience provides a key asset in working with Federal, State, and Local agencies on permitting, licensing, and reporting. Meagan also provides front of house experience in the service industry and manages day to day distillery business functions. On October 18, 2019, she was elected to serve as the next President of the Colorado Distiller's Guild. Where it all began: In a Galway pub on their honeymoon, Patrick and Meagan sat watching the 2011 Ireland vs. USA Rugby World Cup Match. An eager bartender was thrilled to share with them the first Single Pot Still Whiskey to be released in decades. He regaled them with the history of this nearly extinct style of whiskey and with the passion that one day, Single Pot Still would regain its rightful place on the world stage. The love affair was instant, and the couples' passion was forever ingrained in the story of Single Pot Still Whiskey. With family history rooted in Irish ancestry, the couple returned to Ireland every year and knew that single pot still whiskey would forever be a part of their story. Knowing that Single Pot Still Whiskey was not yet available in the US they set out to create the first Single Pot Still distillery outside of Ireland. They wanted to bring this style of whiskey to America and imbue it with the nation's terroir while honoring Gaelic distilling traditions, the immigrant soul, and the pioneering spirit of the American people. Our Name: Talnua. Our name is born of the Irish-Gaelic words 'Talamh', meaning 'Land', and 'Nua', meaning 'New'. In a word, it's our story, and tells of our passion for bringing an old-world style of distilling to the new land that is America. Our sigil shows our native Big Horn Ram on the Flatirons of Colorado's Front Range. It is looking back on a triskele moon, which represents the Irish-Gaelic old world, home to the distilling traditions we honor. Faugh a Ballagh. Our motto means 'Clear the Way' for the new American Single Pot Still and explore a whole new world of character and flavor. Show Links: Whiskey Distillery | Talnua Distillery

150: Celebrating a Milestone with Four Roses Limited Edition Bourbon
We're celebrating 150 episodes of the Bourbon Lens with some very special bourbons. We appreciate each and every one of our supporters, listeners, fans, and friends. Without you, we wouldn't have the drive to continue producing the bourbon and whiskey content that we do. Cheers to you! And here's to 150 more! In this episode, Jake and Scott have a blind lineup of the last 3 Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch releases. Which will come out on top? Which year is your favorite? Our 3 Glasses contain: Red - 2020 Green - 2021 Yellow - 2019 Scott's Ranking: 2019 (Yellow) 2021 (Green) 2020 (Red) Jake's Ranking: 2021 (Green) 2019 (Yellow) 2020 (Red) Details on Batches: 2019 (aka Yellow) Non-chill filtered and bottled at a 112.6 proof, the 2019 Limited Edition Small Batch marks the first Four Roses limited-quantity bottling to feature a 21-year-old Bourbon which is from the distillery's OBSV recipe. This release will also feature a 15-year-old OESK, 15-year-old OESV and 11-year-old OESV. NOSE - Elegant aromas of oak, honey, red raspberries and vanilla. PALATE - Bright, sweet fruits, cinnamon, baking spices, and mellow barrel flavors. FINISH - Rich, soft and lasting finish. 2020 (aka Red) Non-chill filtered and bottled at a 111.4 proof, the 2020 Limited Edition Small Batch features a 12-year-old Bourbon from the OBSV recipe, a 12-year-old OESV, a 19-year-old OBSK and a 16-year-old OESK. NOSE - Apple, Orange Peel, Honey & Vanilla PALATE - Apricot, Pear, Hints of Red Berries FINISH - Rye Spice, Light Oak, Refreshing Fruit 2021 (aka Green) Non-chill filtered and bottled at a 114.2 proof, the 2021 Limited Edition Small Batch features a 16-year-old Bourbon from the OBSV recipe, a 14-year-old OBSQ, a 12-year-old OESK, and a 16-year-old OESV. NOSE -Ripe Berries, Light Floral, Rich Warm Oak PALATE - Plum, Orange Peel, Delicate Spice FINISH -Vanilla Cream, Dark Chocolate Show Links: Four Roses Limited Edition Bourbons Four Roses Bourbon | Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey Four Roses Virtual Tour The Remarkable Resurrection and Unique Nature of Four Roses Bourbon The Best New Whiskeys To Seek Out This Month Price, where to buy Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch 2021 Image Credit - Four Roses Distillery We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott, Jake, & MichaelBourbon Lens

149: Luca Mariano - Kentucky Bourbon with Italian Flair
It's the whiskey brand with an Italian name and they're looking to make their mark in the world of Kentucky Bourbon. We are joined by Luca Mariano Distillery this week to talk about starting a bourbon brand, finding a home for your distillery, and growing brand awareness. Jennifer Brandt and Kenny Fuller are our guests this week as we taste through the full lineup Luca Mariano whiskey in downtown Louisville. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout to our Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support us, join in whiskey tastings, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott, Jake, & MichaelBourbon Lens About the Distillery: In 2016, LMD began prospecting for land to house its future distillery while waiting for the bourbon and rye whiskey to come of age. Francesco's long-term vision is to create a distillery location that is like no other distillery. He envisions a place for family and friends to come and enjoy great music, food, and whiskey. The same way his family does it in Italy. With the long-term goal in mind, in 2017, LMD found a 300 acre farm in Danville, Kentucky that would give plenty of space for what Francesco envisions. The farm includes a stone house that was built by a man named William Crow, which is the oldest stone house in the State of Kentucky. Although the stone house was left abandoned and in disrepair, LMD plans to restore the house to its original condition. Additional plans for the project include the following: construction of a fully-functioning distillery; a visitor's center; multiple rickhouses for barrel aging; and, an entertainment pavilion. About Francesco Viola, Founder/Owner: Francesco began distilling as a hobby in his garage in 2010. He hadn't planned on it becoming a business. After having a neighbor over to enjoy what he had created, his neighbor told him that it was illegal to distill liquor in his garage. After discovering that his hobby was illegal, Francesco called his lawyer to help him obtain a license to distill liquor, so he could carry out his grandfather's dream. Francesco's grandfather was a man named Mariano Viola. His dream was for his family to build a business and create a legacy in the United States. Mariano taught Francesco many skills including gardening, making pasta and wine, and distilling brandy and whiskey. In honor of his grandfather, Francesco created recipes for Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey that are the foundation of Luca Mariano Distillery. The company is named after Francesco's son, Luca Mariano, who is named after Francesco's grandfather. Show Links: Luca Mariano | Kentucky Straight Bourbon & Rye Luca Mariano Distillery (@lucamarianodistillery) • Instagram photos and videos Luca Mariano on Twitter Distillery considers options for historic William Crow house - The Advocate-Messenger

148: Veterans Day Special with Horse Soldier Bourbon
In a special Veterans Day episode, we are joined by retired, Special Forces Veteran Scott Neil who is the co-founder of Horse Soldier Bourbon. Horse Soldier, was co-founded by the horse-mounted Green Berets who lead America's counter-terrorism effort in Afghanistan almost immediately following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Scott Neil has an incredible story, a warrior's mindset, and a soldier's determination with everything he does, including his current mission: growing a bourbon brand. A huge thank you to Scott Neil, Horse Solider Bourbon, and all the United States' Veterans on this very special Veterans Day. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott, Jake, & MichaelBourbon Lens About Horse Soldier Bourbon Horse Soldier Bourbon is an all American, ultra-premium whiskey crafted by the legendary U.S. Army Green Berets who answered the country's call days after 9/11 with a daring insertion, on horseback, into northern Afghanistan. This brave and unconventional act earned them the moniker of "Horse Soldiers" and inspired them to create their awarding winning bourbon. The team has been featured in the Hollywood movie 12 Strong, the CNN documentary Legion of Brothers, and is memorialized by America's Response Monument located at Ground Zero in New York City. When the team first set out on their journey to make Horse Soldier Bourbon, they wanted to ensure they were fully immersing themselves in the art of making whiskey and learning all they could about the ingredients used, distillation, aging and design. They therefore traveled around the world visiting distilleries and brand houses to gain more information and understand everything that went into making a stellar bourbon. The result was the ability to successfully combine their new knowledge and whiskey making skills with the meticulous precision, process, and habits they gained in the military and translate both into distilling the world-class Horse Soldier Bourbon brand. Founded in 2015, Horse Soldier Bourbon encompasses three core elements that make it the legendary spirit it is today: Authentic, the team behind the brand are an integral part of the country's history; All-American, each ingredient used to make Horse Soldier Bourbon is from the U.S, including its glass bottle, which is molded by steel recovered from the World Trade Center to commemorate the lives lost but never forgotten; And Award-Winning, to date the brand has won more than 30 awards from many of the industry's most prestigious competitions, including three Double Gold Medals at the San Francisco International Spirits Competition. Today, the team's steadfast mission is to continue to create an award-winning, legendary line of bourbons, the embodiment of the American spirit and the Horse Soldier's legacy in a bottle. Comprised of rich and complex wheat-forward whiskies, the core Horse Soldier Portfolio includes the Straight Bourbon, Small Batch Bourbon, and Barrel Strength Bourbon in addition to limited edition expressions launched annually, such as the Commander's Select Limited Edition Release. Looking ahead, Horse Soldier Bourbon will be making its forever home in Somerset, Kentucky. Located on 225 acres of rolling countryside, they put together an award winning team of international and local architects, experiential designers, and engineers to create the Horse Soldier Distillery experience. The new distillery will become the most southern stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, joining the family of iconic distilleries that have made their home there and ensuring the Horse Soldier legacy lives on for decades to come. The Horse Soldier Bourbon Portfolio: Horse Soldier Straight Bourbon (SRP: $49.99 | 43.5% ABV): The brand's classic recipe of authentic bourbon is made with corn, rye, and malted barley and won a Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2019. It is a balanced and robust bourbon aged a minimum of 3 years to ensure its distinctive, mellow character. Horse Soldier Small Batch Bourbon (SRP: $69.99 | 47.5% ABV): Extraordinarily complex with notes of vanilla, ginger, and cherries, this "wheated" bourbon is made from small batches of meticulously blended mature whiskey, aged for a minimum of 6 years in new American white oak b

147: A Decade of Craft Whiskey at FEW Spirits
A grain-to-glass distillery since 2011, FEW Spirits produces craft whiskey in a tucked away alley located in the Chicago suburb of Evanston, IL. A historical town where Prohibition lasted until 1972, Founder & Master Distiller Paul Hletko changed the future of Evanston when he opened FEW Spirits Distillery, the first (legal) alcohol-production facility of any kind to ever open there. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. And please check out our Patreon to learn how you can support our endeavors, earn Bourbon Lens swag, be part of future barrel picks, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Visit our website BourbonLens.com to check out our blog posts, or even purchase your own Bourbon Lens tasting glass or t-shirt. Cheers,Scott, Jake, & MichaelBourbon Lens About the Brand:Paul Hletko always knew he wanted to make craft spirits —produced in the local Chicago area -that offered something different, delicious and fun. Living in Evanston, a town that was prime for change after being dry for four decades post the repeal of prohibition, Paul felt it was the perfect home and backdrop for FEW and the brand. Deeply integrated into the brand story, both Evanston and Chicago are crucial elements of the FEW DNA and its inspiration. From its liquid, created from locally grown or sourced ingredients, to the look & feel of the design, which pays homage to the 1893 World's Fair in Chicago— FEW is the true definition of a local Illinois craft spirit. FEW Spirits features a refreshing and innovative portfolio including a stable of core spirits and several small batch limited edition specialty expressions. Each flagship spirit is a new take on the timeless liquors of the past; distilled from the very best grains, aged to perfection, and bottled under the FEW roof. The small batch limited editions hold true to the premium quality FEW drinkers have to come to love and expect from the brand, but offer something novel to the oft-ordinary taste and style we've all grown accustomed to. In a world over saturated with mass-produced spirits, only few remain truly handcrafted, locally sourced and small-batched. FEW has never strayed from this —even as it grows, Paul and his team continue to provide consistently impeccable spirits that are true to their craft roots and reminiscent of their home base. About Paul Hletko - Founder & Master Distiller A maverick for the ages, Paul Hletko wore many hats before launching FEW Spirits, but one thing has always remained consistent throughout —he loves to make new things. Whether that was making blueprints as an engineer, deals as a lawyer or music for his rock-n-roll band, at his core Paul is a creative and always wants to bring something to the table that hasn't been done before. "All my life, I've tried to be a creative person and beat to the sound of my own drum," says Paul. "At the end of the day, I like to have created something that didn't exist that morning and offers something completely different." FEW Spirits was and is exactly that. And while that notion, and Evanston's history itself led to the creation of FEW, the biggest inspiration for Paul was his own family history. Prior to World War II, Paul's grandfather owned a large brewery in what is now the Czech Republic and after losing the brewery to the Nazi invasion he fought the remainder of his life to get the brewery back. When his grandfather passed away and Paul was at the end of his time with the music industry, he decided to start a distillery of his own. He says, "I wanted to create something that would honor my family history but didn't want to try and replicate it. With FEW, I am able to celebrate my roots while being able to create something new." In 2011 Paul opened the FEW Distillery and since then has produced award wining spirits that are original, distinctive and playful. His love for the nuances & flavor of whiskey and his flexibility to innovate with gin have made them FEW's backbone products, but he continues to play around and innovate daily with limited expressions and new collaborations. In the future, Paul aspires to take FEW to an even bigger production facility where he and his team can continue to produce their liquid for enthusiasts around the world, while still remaining true to their craft roots. Recently, Paul was named the 2018 World Distiller of the Year in Gin Magazine's annual "Icons of Gin" feature. About the Production Small but mighty, FEW Distillery makes its spirits using three stills, which according to Founder Paul Hletko is a rarity among pro