Bourbon Pursuit

It's another great episode of The Bourbon Community Roundtable and this is the 82nd edition. Over the past few weeks Jack Daniel's has made its case against a dog toy manufacturer all the way to the Supreme Court. There's no better time than the present to have Brian Harra of Sipp'n Corn break it down into what this means for parody law and for anyone else trying to infringe on a trademark. Then we dive in with our first topic with expensive bottles of bourbon. I'm not talking secondary, I'm talking like $500 bottles. The idea came to me when I saw lots of people dismissing the new Daniel Weller release because it's 11 years old and only 4 proof points higher than Weller 12, but Buffalo Trace is putting a price tag that is 900% higher. Does bourbon need $500 bottles? In the second half we look at distillery tasting kits. Four Roses recently announced theirs and people are already getting amped up for it. However, many distilleries have done this in the past and failed. Has the time come when we could see this trend start to take off? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about what distillery could overtake Buffalo Trace's Antique Collection. Talk about the Jack Daniel's case against the dog toy manufacturer. Does bourbon need $500 bottles? Do you think distillery tasting kits will take off? Why have tasting kits failed in the past? @breakingbourbon @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Jefferson's Marian McLain Whiskey. This non-age stated whiskey is 102 proof and $300 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's This Week in Bourbon for June 23rd 2023. A new bill has been introduced that will refund duties and taxes to export bourbon, Four Roses will sell a limited supply of 10 recipe tasting kits, and Heaven's Door releases their next Decade Series.Show Notes: Brown-Forman sells Finladia Vodka to Coca-Cola HBC for $220M and exits Vodka completely. A new bill has been introduced that will refund duties and taxes to export bourbon five new bourbon-centric stops have been added to The B-Line Four roses will sell a limited supply of 10 recipe tasting kits Heaven's Door unveiled its Decade Series Rye release Frey Ranch Distillery announced Frey Ranch Farm Strength Uncut Bourbon @brownforman @_the_b_line_ @cocacola @fourrosesbourbon @heavensdoorwhiskey @freyranchdistillery Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're looking for a bourbon that has been crafted by arguably the best distiller of wheated bourbon and blended by the most respected nose in the industry, then you're looking for Wyoming Whiskey. The story of how Wyoming Whiskey got started is fascinating and that's why I invited David DeFazio, one of the original Co-Founders, to come on the show and share how an idea of starting a winery turned into a distillery that failed on their first release, crawled its way back to greatness. David shares the story of buying a Vendome still but not having a distiller and took Steve Nally, the man responsible for decades of wheated bourbon production at Maker's Mark and now serving as the Master Distiller at Bardstown bourbon Company, out of retirement to be the person who would set them up for amazing whiskey for years to come. But, that's not all, David and his team also got Nancy Fraley to come in and be the person who would take their releases to the next level. Plus, stick around to the end to hear about some rye distillation fun. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about stonefruit What got you into whiskey and how did you carve your path in this industry? What did you want to come away with when you visited the Kentucky Bourbon Festival trying to start this business? What did you think Wyoming could offer to the whiskey landscape? How did you get connected to Steve Nally? When you started did you feel there was going to be a demand for bourbon? Did you tell Steve Nally what kind of bourbon to create? What's the climate like for aging? Where did the relationship with Nancy Fraley start? What was your sales plan? How did you win people back when you failed in your first release? Did Edrington try to make things super luxury after the acquisition? Was there a reason that the backstory and founders haven't been on the forefront of the brand story? @wyomingwhiskey Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review New Riff Yellow Leaming Bourbon. This 5 year old bourbon is 100 proof and $56 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's This Week in Bourbon for June 16th 2023. The U.S. Supreme Court sides with Jack Daniel's in the dog toy dispute, a new whiskey documentary is now available called "Fire, Water & Grain: The Story of Empire Rye", and Buffalo Trace launches Daniel Weller, an experimental line exploring different strains of wheat.Show Notes: Ken Lewis of New Riff has announced his upcoming retirement The U.S. Supreme Court sides with Jack Daniel's in the dog toy dispute Virginia law to keep traditional soft drinks separate from crossover beverages on store shelves A new whiskey documentary is now available called "Fire, Water & Grain: The Story of Empire Rye" Research from Yale University suggests that drinking in moderation might be a life-saver Rabbit Hole presents Dareringer Founder’s Collection Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in PX Sherry Casks Heaven Hill announced the launch of Square 6 Wheated Bourbon Buffalo Trace launches Daniel Weller, an experimental line exploring different strains of wheat Fireball Dragon Reserve, limited-edition bourbon barrel-aged whisky from Fireball @newriff @jackdaniels_us @empirerye @thebalasbrothers @rabbithole @heavenhilldistillery @bufalotracedistillery @fireballwhisky Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What goes hand-in-hand with bourbon? That's law and taxes. Over the past few years we have seen incredible changes to Kentucky's bourbon laws when it comes to vintage spirits, the three-tier system, and the bourbon barrel tax being removed. All of these are done in an effort to make Kentucky's signature industry thrive. There's been one person behind the scenes with all of this, and that is Chad McCoy. Chad is a Former Kentucky State Representative that took care of Bardstown and wanted to see change happen. He dives into how he got into politics and he gives us an idea how many lobbyists there are vying for attention. It's a fantastic episode that covers the political landscape and how it's really hard to make everyone from producers, distributors, and consumers equally happy. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about bottled-in-bond rye. Where did you grow up and how did you get into politics? At what point did bourbon law become more of a focus? How often would you be hit up by lobbyists? How does a lobbyist influence your decisions? Who presented the vintage spirits law bill and what was the motivation behind it? Is a laser code from a prior year considered vintage? Can you talk about the bill that bypassed distributors so distilleries to can sell bottles at a gift shop? Why are trade bodies against NDPs? Why did you want to get rid of the bourbon barrel tax? How can consumers make a change? Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Wolves Lot One Single Malt Whiskey. This 7 year old single malt is 110 proof and $290 MSRP (correction). Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's This Week in Bourbon for Jue 9th 2023. Virginia liquor officials said they're taking steps to automate the random lottery process, the third annual release of Russell's Reserve 13-Year-Old Bourbon , and the launch of Hardin’s Creek The Kentucky Series, 3 different 17-year-old Bourbons.Show Notes: Virginia liquor officials said they're taking steps to automate the random lottery process Two comedians who named their Scotch whisky after their on-screen characters have won a trademark dispute against Jack Daniel’s Sean "Diddy" Combs sues Diageo Sean 'Diddy' Combs has launched Diddy Direct Barrel Global announces the launch of its new barrel ownership service Independent Stave Company has purchased 8,016 forested acres near Somerset KY Mystic Galactic Bourbon has announced the selection of an orbiter vendor The release of Bib & Tucker Double Char Bourbon Dancing Goat Presents series, “Quirky & Humble.” Bardstown Bourbon Company will soon release Discovery Series #10 That Boutique-y Whisky Company is shining a light on American whiskey in its latest collection Woodford Reserve has released Woodford Reserve Batch Proof Third annual release of Russell's Reserve 13-Year-Old Bourbon Launch of Hardin’s Creek The Kentucky Series, 3 different 17-year-old Bourbons @barrelglobal @independentstavecompany @mysticfarmdistillery @bibandtuckerbourbon @dancinggoatdistillery @bardstownbourbonco @boutiqueywhisky @woodfordreserve @russellsreservebourbon @hardinscreek Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You hear Ryan and I talk about RTDs or Ready To Drink canned cocktails on This Week in Bourbon all the time and here's the reason why. Most of us got our start into bourbon by mixing it with coke or ginger ale. The modern day drinker is finding their path through cocktails. And now that the seltzer craze has hit, getting your first taste of bourbon through a RTD can be the new gateway. There is one company based in Louisville that has been the go-to company for every drinks company across the country for creating flavored whiskeys, energy drinks, and even RTDs, and that's Flavorman. Brad Nichols and Jordan Plappert from Flavorman join the show as we get a deep-dive into how flavors are developed and how do we begin creating a bourbon-based RTD. It's a fascinating show about conception of ideas, how we can keep sugar volume in check, and how big your pocket book needs to be to get started. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about growing older and your senses. How did you progress into the drinks business? What's the general overview of Flavorman? How do you create or discover new flavors? Where do you start when creating a spirit-based RTD? What does conception look like for a bourbon-based RTD? What difference goes into creating a RTD vs a flavored whiskey? Can explain the difference in the type of can used based on the metal or material? Why are whiskey based RTDs higher in alcohol versus seltzer based? Is malt based cheaper versus spirit based? How do you reduce sugar volume for those that are health conscious? How do you choose a product that is ready to pour in a bottle versus in a can? How do you stabilize an ingredient so it doesn't separate and the shelf life? What can you offer to customers to get products on shelves sooner? What's the initial cost to just start the conversation? Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Old Forester Bourbon 117 Series Warehouse H. This non-age stated bourbon is 98 proof and $60 MSRP (375ml). Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The bourbon industry has this fascinating thing where “The Big Six” can hold such a monopoly of the industry - regardless of price category, and regardless of consumer profile. Is there room for other players to continue to penetrate the market, and how do they break the standard “value” scale that is so often set by Big Bourbon? We hit on: What draws a consumer to Big Bourbon over a similar cost smaller brand? How does the consumer deal with a value scale that is constantly changing? Do the flavor profiles of smaller brands hit the flavor profiles of the larger brands? and much more. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at [email protected]. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Here we are again with another Bourbon Community Roundtable. This one started off pretty tame, but towards the end we start digging deep so here is what's on the menu for this one. A few weeks ago, it was announced that Penelope would be acquired by MGP, but notably its subsidiary Luxco for $215M. We all know this is a great move for the brand, but I posed a question to the group that intrigued me and that is if we will see more MGP brands be purchased as a result? I also follow it up with other powerhouse contract distillers and if we can see them copycat this acquisition in hopes of taking a brand to a new level. That quickly transitioned into the idea that brands can come out of nowhere. One of the most famous, or infamous, brands of all time was Ezra Brooks. A brand that was created out of thin air. Since consumers know more now than they ever have before, could we see another Ezra Brooks emerge in our lifetime? That tends to go into a few different directions but I won't ruin the fun for you. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about if you could only drink one bourbon. Will Penelope's acquisition lead to MGP buying more brands to build their portfolio? Consumers are as smart as ever, so could a phantom brand like Ezra Brooks work today? Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Still Austin The Artist Straight Rye Whiskey. This 2 year old rye is 99.6 proof and $50 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's This Week in Bourbon for May 26th 2023. Airbnb predicts a busy summer for Louisville as its top trending U.S. destination, Virginia ABC lottery chose multiple BTAC winners and fans aren't happy, and Rabbit Hole’s launches TennielShow Notes: Update on Forbidden that it actually uses Castle & Key barrels RTD cocktails see more stratospheric growth Amazon is launching a way for drinkers to buy alcohol with a simple swipe of their hand Airbnb summer picks Louisville as its top trending U.S. destination Virginia ABC lottery chose multiple BTAC winners and fans aren't happy Ireland will become the world's first country to label alcoholic drinks with comprehensive health warnings Brother’s Bond introduces two new expressions, Brother’s Bond American Blended Rye and Brother’s Bond Cask Strength Steph Curry announced the launch of Gentleman’s Cut Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Rabbit Hole’s launches Tenniel @forbiddenbourbon @airbnb @abc_va @brothersbondbourbon @rabbithole Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How many distillery tours have you been on? 2? 5? Maybe 20? Well, you can't even touch our guest today. Drew Hannush is the author of multiple books including Experiencing Kentucky Bourbon, Experiencing Irish Whiskey, and new one coming soon on Tennessee. He has his own whiskey podcast called Whiskey Lore but, he has also visited over 250 distilleries across the world. That's a ton of miles traveled. We dig into his passion and why he continues to visit distilleries and even re-visit some. Then we discuss how he doesn't get fatigued because sometimes it's a lot of the same process and story told over and over again. Then we dive into some hidden gems across Kentucky and even talk about the boom of craft distilleries and if he plans on hitting every single one. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about barrel shortage. What got you into the deep-dive of whiskey? How do you not get fatigued listening to a similar story every time? Did you find out where the name bourbon came from? What stands out when visiting Kentucky distilleries? How are some distilleries rewarding drivers versus those who are traveling to try a bunch of whiskey? How are you approaching all the different whiskeys with an open mind? How many brands outside of American Whiskey are sourcing whiskey? What keeps you interested to keep going back and revisiting distilleries? What are the hidden gems that people don't know about? Now that all these craft distilleries are popping up across the US is the goal to hit them all? Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Hirsch The Cask Strength Bourbon Finished in Cognac Casks. This 7 year old finished bourbon is 127 proof and $200 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's This Week in Bourbon for May 19th 2023. Justins' House of Bourbon has had all charges in Washington DC dropped, Log Still Distillery launches their own single barrel program, and Jim beam enters the American Single Malt Category with Clermont Steep.Show Notes: The Michelin Guide US has named Basil Hayden its official American whiskey partner Justins' House of Bourbon has had all charges in Washington DC dropped Log Still Distillery launches their own single barrel program Frankfort, KY offers bourbon incentives for remote workers to relocate Ezra Brooks 99 Straight Rye Whiskey and a newly reformulated Ezra Brooks Bourbon Cream The Jack Daniel Distillery introduces Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Barrel Proof Rye Whiskey Kentucky Senator Bourbon is set to unveil its fourth release Marianne Eaves introduces Forbidden Jim beam enters the American Single Malt Category with Clermont Steep @basilhayden @houseofbourbonlou @houseofbourbonlex @logstilldistillery @ezrabrooksbourbon @jackdaniels_us @mariannebmd @jimbeamofficial Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The dream of owning a bourbon bar. That sounds pretty awesome doesn't it? In this episode, we get to hear Watch Hill Proper's journey. Joshua Howes and Tommy Craggs join the show to talk about the initial concept of the bar and the challenges they faced not coming from a restaurant background. We dive into the finer details of the business such as staff training, retainment, and revenue between food and beverage. But for us whiskey geeks, we talk about building a collection of unicorns that are proudly on display but also available by the pour. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about why Maker's Mark doesn't use age statements. How did you get into bourbon and what's your bourbon journey? Did you know what the concept of the bar was going to be before you started? What challenges did you face since you don't come from a restaurant background? How did you come to the design and the feel of the space? What percentage of your revenue is food vs beverage? How did you procure the unicorns in the collection? How do you train the staff on how to be knowledgable on all the whiskeys? What was your business plan and how many drinks you have to sell to keep the doors open? Can you talk about how membership communication backfired? How did the name Watch Hill Proper come to be? Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Chicken Cock Double Oak Whiskey. This 8 year old whiskey is 92 proof and $100 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's This Week in Bourbon for May 12th 2023. MGP and Luxco will acquire Penelope Bourbon for up to $215M, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof moves to variable age stated releases, and Mark Brown will step down as CEO and president of Sazerac in July.Show Notes: MGP and Luxco will acquire Penelope Bourbon for up to $215M B.R. Distilling Company now offers tours at the distillery Elijah Craig Barrel Proof moves to variable age stated releases Wenzel Whiskey has acquired assets and an inventory of aged spirits from Ghost Coast Distillery Mark Brown will step down as CEO and president of Sazerac in July Scientists Have Discovered the Perfect Amount of Water to Add to Your Whiskey HIRSCH Selected Whiskeys announces The Single Barrel Double Oak Chattanooga Whiskey announced Experimental Batch 031: Red, White and Blue Grist @penelopebourbon @bluenotebourbon @elijahcraig @wenzel_whiskeyhirschwhiskey @chattwhiskey Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Where did it all go wrong? Or maybe it's not even wrong, but secondary cask finished bourbons seems to all the rage. What used to be a means of innovation has turned into a chase to find the most exotic woods and multi-cask finishes to keep fans asking, what's next? In this episode, Ryan, Fred, and myself dive into the history of cask finishes and question whether double oaked bourbons are still considered pure bourbon. We wonder why don't consumers ask more questions to hold companies responsible about the finishing processes and potential quality drops. Lastly, I drop a bomb about SKU sprawl and what will happen when larger companies create more finishes that will squeeze out shelf space for smaller brands. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about buying dusty bourbon What's your fascination with Liquid Death? Where did cask finishes really begin? How can you trust what a brand does with their whiskey behind the scenes? Why don't consumers question the process? Are double oaked bourbons still considered pure bourbon? Is it the producer or the consumer problem because there is a chase for the next thing? Is barrel finishing the only way to differentiate yourself from other brands? Is the quality going to drop soon because of the distillate being used? What happens when companies with large stocks create more SKUs and take over more shelf space? Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Kentucky Owl Bourbon Batch 12. This non-age stated bourbon is 115.8 proof and $400 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's This Week in Bourbon for May 5th 2023. New Riff Distilling has announced the dual release of two new heirloom grain bourbons, Buffalo Trace Distillery is thrilled to release Buffalo Trace Experimental Peated Bourbon, and Blue Run Spirits announces its first ever Single Barrel Rye WhiskeyShow Notes: Bardstown Bourbon Co. kicks off their summer patio concert series Diesel Cigars and Rabbit Hole are marking their third collaboration New Riff Distilling has announced the dual release of two new heirloom grain bourbons American Mash & Grain releases Borrowed Page Volume 2 Chattanooga Whiskey releases Founder’s 11th Anniversary Blend Buffalo Trace Distillery releases Buffalo Trace Experimental Peated Bourbon Blue Run Spirits announces its first ever Single Barrel Rye Whiskey @bardstownbourbonco @rabbithole @dieselcigars @newriff @mashngrain @chattwhiskey @buffalotracedistillery @bluerunspirits @thatoneduderyan Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We've got two juicy topics to tackle so here's what we've got. Last year we saw the release of Russell's Reserve Single Rickhouse limited edition offering. That sparked a Vine Pair article that asked if single rickhouse bottlings will be the next big thing? I wanted to challenge that a bit and figure out if we really think there are varied flavor profiles based on rickhouses or are they cherry-picking barrels to make another marketing angle. In the second half of the show we discuss the current state of single barrels. They are flooded on shelves across the nation and they aren't selling like they used to. How will this get fixed or is this a side-effect of the COVID buying frenzy? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about entry proof. Are single rickhouse bottlings going to be the next big thing? Do different rickhouses provide different flavor profiles or is this a marketing angle? How will we fix the abundance of single barrel offerings on the shelves across the nation? Is this a side effect of the covid buying frenzy? @breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Bernheim Barrel Proof Original Wheat Whiskey Batch A223. This 7-9 year old wheat whiskey is 118.8 proof and $65 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's This Week in Bourbon for April 28th 2023. Heaven’s Door Spirits plans to open a new distillery in Pleasureville, Kentucky, Buzzard’s Roost Sipping Whiskeys announces the opening of the Buzzard’s Roost Whiskey Row Experience in downtown Louisville, and Barrell Craft Spirits will add Rye to its already expansive Private Release offerings.Show Notes: Heaven’s Door Spirits plans to open a new distillery in Pleasureville, Kentucky DISCUS backs 2 bills in California and Maine The Mexican navy has seized almost 10 tons of liquid methamphetamine hidden in 11,520 bottles of tequila O.H. Ingram River Aged has doubled its operations and moved to a larger facility in Columbus, KY. Buzzard’s Roost Sipping Whiskeys announces the opening of the Buzzard’s Roost Whiskey Row Experience in downtown Louisville Buffalo Trace releases in its Old Charter Oak collection, Spanish Oak Bourbon Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery has announced the return of the Nelson Brothers Honey Cask Finish Southern Distilling Company launches Hunting Creek Straight Rye Jack Daniel’s commemorates its partnership with McLaren Racing Blood Oath Pact 9 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in Oloroso Sherry casks Barrell Craft Spirits® (BCS) will add Rye to its already expansive Private Release offerings @heavensdoorwhiskey @distilledspiritscouncil @ingramwhiskey @buzzardsroostwhiskey @buffalotracedistillery @nelsonsgreenbrier @southerndistilling @jackdaniels_us @luxrowdistillers @barrellbourbon Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How much influence does the barrel have on the whiskey you drink? If you talk to a lot of people in the industry you will get a rough estimate of 70% or more flavor gets extracted from the barrel. We've had a few coopers on the show to talk about process, and even today's guest was back on Episode 346. We were so amazed at some of his research we wanted him to come back on the show to talk about more mind blowing stave science. Andrew Wiehebrink is the Director of Spirits Research and Innovation for Independent Stave Company. That means he leads up all the cool advancements on where barrel trends are heading. We talk about the current barrel shortage and if toasted products are the reason to blame, where the future of oak alternatives are heading, and why there is a trend of distilleries moving tog Char 1 vs Char 4. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about warming up your palate. Can you give us a refreshed on how you got into whiskey? How is ISC looking at the current barrel shortage crisis? Is wood growth a problem in getting new barrels? Is there a labor shortage in cooperages? How much has toasted barrels lead to a barrel shortage? Can you explain the seasoning process once again and how that effects the overall flavor? Are you all experimenting with oak alternatives? Why does French Oak have more peaks and valleys for the maturation process? Maker's really pioneered the custom staves but is anyone else doing anything to that level? Why is there a trend of moving towards Char 1 vs Char 4? Does your research show an optimal time of the year to pull barrels? Is there a trend of using smoked barrels? Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review New Riff Malted Rye Whiskey. This 6 year old rye whiskey is 100 proof and $60 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's This Week in Bourbon for April 21st 2023. The city of Bardstown fights back and stops new distillery construction, Old Elk Distillery announced its 2023 Single Barrel Program, and Booker’s Bourbon is releasing the first batch of the 2023 Collection.Show Notes: The city of Bardstown fights back and stops new distillery construction The Woodford Reserve $1,000 Mint Julep Woodford Reserve is creating a sensorial experience at John F. Kennedy’s Internal Airport Global bourbon market value cap by Allied Market Research Sotheby's has sold a five-bottle set of American whiskeys from closed distilleries for US$187,245 Old Elk Distillery announced its 2023 Single Barrel Program Jefferson's Bourbon launches the Marian McLain and Entrepreneurial Fund with Shark Tank's Barbara Corcoran Bardstown Bourbon Company will release its latest in the Collaborative Series with Foursquare Barbados Rum barrels Milam & Greene Whiskey is proud to unveil Bobcat Single Barrel Bourbon American rapper Nelly has entered the spirits industry with the launch of a moonshine brand, called MoShine RD1 Spirits announces two new line extensions Dixon Dedman releases The Innkeeper’s Blend 15 STARS releases Triple Cask and First West Rye Sagamore Spirit's national release of its Orange Crush Craft Canned Cocktail Booker’s Bourbon first batch of the 2023 called Charlie’s Batch Furman University launched a straight bourbon whiskey, named FU All The Time @woodfordreserve @alliedmarketresearch @sothebys @oldelkbourbon @jeffersonsbourbon @barbaracorcoran @bardstownbourbonco @milamandgreenewhiskey @nelly @rd1spirits @dixon_dedman @15starsbourbon @sagamorespirit @furmanuniversity Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you google for anything BBQ related on YouTube, I can guarantee you will see a video pop-up of our guest. Matt Pittman is the founder of Meat Church, he's one of the most well-known BBQ personalities in the industry. But Matt wasn't always talking about brisket and ribs with his infamous Holy Cow rub, that was his passion project. In this episode we talk about his career and what it took to make a pivot from a comfy position in IT to going all-in with Meat Church. But this isn't all about BBQ. Matt is turning his sights into another discovered passion, bourbon. He discusses how is eyes were opened during a bottle share and with the help of the Dallas Bourbon Club, he is starting to build out his very own collection. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about tasting mats. Where did you grow up and how did you get into tech? Did you have any pit master idols or people you looked up to? Were you accepted by people in the industry or did they just look at you as a YouTuber? Why did you choose to not open a restaurant? Did the product or the media and education come first? What was the tipping point when you could leave your career to chase after BBQ? What tactics did you use to grow the business when you went full time? How did the idea of cooking classes start? Where did the name Meat Church come from? At what point did bourbon start making an influence on you? Bourbon producers have generations of distillers, does that exist in BBQ as well? Who bestowed upon you the title of pit master? @meatchurch Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Heaven Hill Heritage Collection 20-Year-Old Corn Whiskey. This 20 year old corn whiskey is 115 proof and $290 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's This Week in Bourbon for April 14th 2023. Campari Group plans to add a second distillery at its Wild Turkey campus in Lawrenceburg, Sotheby's unveiled The Rare American Whiskey Selection , and Father Jim Sichko marks the 10-year anniversary of the election of Pope Francis with a rare release of 10-year Willet.Show Notes: Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has begun an antitrust investigation into Southern Glazer's Wine and Spirits Heaven’s Door plans to open The Last Refuge, a whiskey bar and live music venue, in downtown Louisville Campari Group plans to add a second distillery at its Wild Turkey campus in Lawrenceburg Castle & Key 502 is officially opening within the Fall City Market in the Omni Hotel Edrington has increased its shareholding in the Wyoming Whiskey brand Bourbon with HeART announces Bowtied Together Give 270 has announced the kickoff of its latest series of charity whiskey raffles Sotheby's unveiled The Rare American Whiskey Selection The two Virginia men won't face any active jail time Jennifer Lopez has launched her own line of ready-to-drink bottled cocktails a new app called The Kentucky Hug The Dancing Goat Distillery releases a 21-year-old light whiskey Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company releases the Ten x Ten Small Batch Rye Whiskey Knob Creek Rye brings back a 7 year age statement Wilderness Trail releases a 7 year rye Maker’s Mark Keeneland commemorative bottles Proof & Wood Ventures launched The Globe Father Jim Sichko marks the 10-year anniversary of the election of Pope Francis with a rare release of 10-year Willet @heavensdoorwhiskey @wildturkey @castleandkey @wyomingwhiskey @bourbonwithheart @give270 @sothebys @jlo @dancinggoatdistillery @lawrenceburgbourbon @knobcreek @wildernesstraildistillery @makersmark @proofandwood @jimsichko Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Master Taster. It just sounds like a really cool job. But what does it take to become a Master Taster? Old Forester is a brand that has a history of hiring people for this role and their newest is Melissa Rift. Ryan and I have had the pleasure of getting to know Melissa over the years but it was in different roles she held in the industry. Yet, thanks to notifications on indeed.com, she was able to apply and land this role. We talk about her history and career in the industry and then we dive into the position and what it takes to be a Master Taster. We also dive into consumer demand and where she sees trends changing over time. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about water contamination. What is your background and how you got into the industry? How do you stay invigorated when you have to give the same tour over and over again? Do you feel tours are an entry point into the industry? Tell the story of the stolen catalytic converters How involved were you with quality control and single barrels at Bulliet? How did you find out about the Master Taster position after Jackie left? What were the pre-requisites for this position? Did you feel confident going into this role or was it scary when it became real? When the press release was announced it highlighted your personal life being openly gay. Was this your idea? Did you taste through all product offerings so you can pick them all out? Do you think consumers will change their opinion on proof? Do you have some ideas on how you will change things to meet consumer demand? How does your wife feel about the amount of travel that will now be involved? @oldfomastertaster Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Old Forester King Ranch Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 105 proof and $70 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Having a variety of SKUs or choices in a brand’s portfolio is a great thing, right? You can reach a multitude of customers with multiple entry points or stepping blocks for them to learn more about you. However, the biggest challenges folks don’t really see come after the product development: continuously communicating with distributors why a new SKU should be carried, shelf space competition, ongoing marketing material about the new SKUs. The behind-the-scenes work can really add up, and is it worth it? Today, we dive in to the topic of expanding the portfolio. We hit on: Is there a life cycle or cadence to how long to carry a set of SKUs before adding new ones? Does having too many SKUs dilute the attention for your core products? Are there certain SKU expansions that are necessary to reach more mass consumption? How has the reception been in markets since the release of Oak Collection? Do distributors give you more attention because you have more products in your lineup? and much more. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at [email protected]. Subscribe to Behind the Pursuit on: Apple Podcasts Spotify iHeartRadio Amazon Music Google Podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's everyone's monthly favorite, the bourbon community roundtable where we invite some of the brightest minds in bourbon media to come on and go deep on some topics. And up first is the story that keeps on giving. Earlier this year Sazerac came out of the gate putting a $38.6M lawsuit in front of Republic National Distributing Company (known as RNDC). Now here we are a few weeks later and we get RNDC's response where they are countersuing for Sazerac's attempts at undermining the three-tier system and claiming over $10M in damages. In the second half of the show we dig into the increase of counterfeit bourbon bottles on the market and these bottles aren't even super rare. We're talking Four Roses Single Barrels and Weller Full Proof. Should distilleries step up and have more tamper-proof seals or is this a buyer beware type of situation? We've said it a million times on the show before, if you want to help combat the spread of these fakes, throw away your bottles by putting sharpie on the label or even go as far as breaking them. Don't be that person selling empties on eBay. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about single barrel programs. What impact will the Sazerac/RNDC lawsuit have on the bourbon industry? When will we see more anti-counterfeit seals? Who is responsible for preventing counterfeits? @breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength Bourbon #2. This 10 year old bourbon is 144.5 proof and $100 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 31st 2023. Elijah Craig is the Official Bourbon and whiskey supplier of the PGA, Chicken Cock Whiskey has released a Double Oak Kentucky Whiskey, Rock Town introduces the Column Still Collection.Show Notes: Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) urges Congress to legalize cannabis at the federal level Regenified Certification to Star Hill Farm New York wine and spirits shop owners traveled to Albany, New York to challenge Amazon Elijah Craig is the “Official Bourbon” and whiskey supplier of the PGA Traverse City Whiskey Co unveiled The Finishing Series Coors Whiskey Co. has unveiled Barmen 1873 Bourbon Rock Town introduces the Column Still Collection Chicken Cock Whiskey has released a Double Oak Kentucky Whiskey @starhillprovisions @makersmark @elijahcraig @tcwhiskey @coorswhiskeyco @rocktowndistill @chickencockwhiskey Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you've listened to our show long enough you would know that it's Kenny versus Fred and Ryan when it comes to coffee. Kenny isn't not much of a coffee drinker but those guys can't live without. But I'm sure there are lots of other coffee and bourbon drinkers out there and you see things like "barrel aged" coffee and immediately gravitate towards it. I mean, how could you not? We should be barrel-aging everything! But there are more correlations between coffee and bourbon that I never knew of so that's why we invited Brian Beyke on the show. He's the Director of Coffee for Quills in Louisville and has been all-in on coffee and bourbon for a long time. In this episode, we scratch an itch to ask all the questions about coffee that we've always wanted to know such as the difference in beans from small versus large scale producers, the "rare" coffee scene, buzzwords to watch out for, and Brian gives us the low-down if barrel-aging is a gimmick. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about palette fatigue. How did you find your path into coffee? Do you need to spit coffee while tasting? What notes in coffee are you looking for when tasting? Is there a three-tier system with coffee? What's the difference in the beans that you get versus the big name brands? Is there a "rare" coffee scene? What are the buzzwords in coffee that you need to watch out for? If bourbon is synonymous to Kentucky then what is the coffee equivalent? What's the professional consensus of Keurig? Does roasting line up with toasting or charring of barrels? What's best method for barrel-aging coffee? How do you adapt the coffee for a cold brew or nitro? Is there a secondary market for rare coffee? Is the coffee flavor wheel different than the bourbon flavor wheel? @abandoncoffee @abandonbourbon Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Old Elk 2022 Infinity Blend Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 114.1 proof and $150 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 17th 2023. RNDC fights back against the Sazerac lawsuit. Blue Run Spirits today revealed the first look at its planned whiskey distillery and headquarters in Georgetown, Kentucky.Pinhook Bourbon has debuted their Vertical Series Rye 7-Year.Show Notes: RNDC fights back against the Sazerac lawsuit Fermenting Change has launched outlining the various ways Three-Tier System harms the alcohol industry direct-to-consumer shipping become a reality in Illinois at ShipMySpirits.org Coors Light introduced Coors-icles Pernod Ricard has buys majority stake in Skrewball Blue Run Spirits today revealed the first look at its planned whiskey distillery New Riff Distilling will begin a US$3 million renovation of its public areas Lux Row Distillers announce Rebel 100 Straight Rye Whiskey Wolves announces its first-ever American Single Malt whiskeys Ragged Branch Distillery announces a special bourbon celebrating the fiftieth anniversary of Secretariat's Triple Crown win Pinhook Bourbon has debuted their Vertical Series Rye 7-Year @rndcusa @shipmyspirits @buffalotracedistillery @coorslight @skrewballwhiskey @pernodricard @bluerunspirits @newriff @luxrowdistillers @raggedbranch @pinhook_bourbon Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bourbon's rise in popularity has been a monumental shift in consumer behavior, but the reality is that it could all come crashing down really quick. Ryan, Fred, and Kenny spend some time on this episode and think about what are those threats to bourbon? We all have ideas on why it became so popular but what are those outside influences that we have no control over? Fred gives a brief history on the bourbon glut era and that starts spurring other ideas that could hurt bourbon's popularity such as overzealous health advocates, new spirits on the rise, government taxes, or the next generation of consumers? Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about heritage brands. Is there an issue with grains, raw material, and barrel shortages? How has the lack of staffing in the service industry impacted bourbon? What caused the first glut and what can we do to prevent that? Did tariffs make an impact on bourbon or was it not really hindered? Are health reports becoming a scare tactic to reduce alcohol consumption? Is there any spirits that could be the next rise of vodka and kill whiskey? Could taxes be a big burden on stifling bourbon? Could the next generation just not like bourbon and kill it off? What happens if bourbon producers have too much greed or there is consumer fatigue? Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Jack Daniel’s Twice Barreled American Single Malt. This non-age stated single malt is 105.7 proof and $70 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 17th 2023. Kentucky lawmakers passed House Bill 5 phasing out a state tax on aging bourbon barrels. Jack Daniel's announced the release of its new 12-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey along with Batch 2 of its 10-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey. This month, Green River will introduce two brand new expressions.Show Notes: New bottle tracking app called Whiskey Shelf Humble Baron, home to the world's longest bar, opening at Nearest Green Chattanooga Whiskey named Tiana Saul as Head Distiller Ship my Spirits coalition calls for spirits shipping laws in New York Data shows how much people are spending while intoxicated Kentucky lawmakers passed House Bill 5 phasing out a state tax on aging bourbon barrels ChatGPT has passed the Master Sommelier theory examinations Jack Daniel's announced the release of its new 12-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey along with Batch 2 of its 10-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey Puncher’s Chance The UNDISPUTED New Bhakta 2013 Bourbon finished in Armagnac casks Four Gate Whiskey Company announced the very limited Majestic Wood series Jim Beam has launched Kentucky Coolers Green River will introduce two brand new expressions @unclenearest @chattwhiskey @shipmyspirits @jackdaniels_us @puncherschancebourbon @bhaktaspirits @fourgatewhiskey @jimbeamofficial @greenriverdistillingco Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The stock market and the bourbon market share one thing in common. They are both impossible to time. If you get in at the right time, maybe you don't have to wait tens of years to make a return on your investment, but if you're too late then you could see a decline. However, in bourbon, there seems to be one person that has time working in his favor, and that's Dixon Dedman. We invite Dixon to come on the show for a third appearance to talk about a few things because it seems like his timing is always perfect. He sold Kentucky Owl to Stoli after being on the market a short period of time, but now that he is officially done with Kentucky Owl we ask him about how he feels and what he learned through the process. After leaving Stoli, he worked with The Brindiamo Group, who we also had on the podcast back on episode 182, and he worked for them for a short period of time where he got an inside glimpse into brand and investment consulting. And now, he's launching his own brand called 2XO which is perfect in this current climate when bourbon is hot and double barreling might be even hotter. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about rubbing whiskey on your hands to nose. Are you still making fried chicken on the weekends? Do you have any regrets after selling Kentucky Owl to Stoli? What did you take away and learn from working with Stoli? How did your relationship with Brindiamo begin? How many barrels are there on the open market where people are flipping them? What profiles or types of bourbon do you like to work with? Is 2XO and Kentucky Owl going to be similar or different? Is there a healthy pipeline of barrels to continue building the brand? @dixon_dedman Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Bardstown Bourbon Company Origin Series Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon. This 6 year old wheated bourbon is 100 proof and $50 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's This Week in Bourbon for March 10th 2023. The whiskey fungus at Jack Daniel's makes national headlines. A leaked document from Amazon show's they are trying to change liquor laws. Laws Whiskey House announced the 2023 release of their Bottled in Bond Four Grain Bourbon.Show Notes: The whiskey fungus at Jack Daniel's makes national headlines A German brewery is set to release the world's first 'complete' beer in powdered form A leaked document from Amazon show's they are trying to change liquor laws Bourbon:30 from Kentucky Bourbon Fest is available on YouTube Laws Whiskey House announced the 2023 release of their Bottled in Bond Four Grain Bourbon Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey has unveiled its second annual release of Diamond Peak Former Rutgers football player recently launched LeGrand Whiskey @jackdaniels_us @brownforman @lawswhiskey @stranahans @ericlegrand52 Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is another Bourbon Pursuit milestone. It's episode 400! Well, it's technically number 668 if we include Whiskey Quickie and This Week in Bourbon, but let's not get into the details. On this Bourbon Community Roundtable we cover two topics in depth. First is the news blitz of the whiskey fungus articles focused on Jack Daniel's. If you've driven past any distillery in the past 100 or so year, you would have seen this everywhere. It also pops up in the news every year, but why is it just now making national headlines? I also ask the group if there is anything the distilleries can do to get in front of this to avoid any negative PR. The second half of the show dives into House Bill 5 that attacks the Kentucky Ad Valorem tax, in which Kentucky is the only state that taxes barrels aging and resting. We look at what this means for citizens that benefit from the tax and if we feel distilleries are already taxed enough. Show Notes: Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about teeth staining. Why is the whiskey fungus just now making national news even though it's been around for years? What can distilleries do to make sure this argument of bad PR doesn't happen next year? What could the distilleries provide to residents to make them more comfortable? What do you think of the Ad Valorem tax on aging barrels? What would the removal of the tax mean for citizens? @breakingbourbon @fredminnick @drinkseelbachs @bourbonr @sippncorn Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Doc Holliday 8 Year Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey from the World Whiskey Society. This 8 year old bourbon is 131 proof and $134 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices