Bourbon Pursuit

Bernie Lubbers is one of the great treasures of the modern whiskey era. A few years ago, he gave us a deep dive on Bottled in Bond in episode 89, but now he's back and we're talking Mellow Corn, Parker's Heritage selections, and where the market is headed with pricing bourbon on the shelf. Stay tuned until the end for a performance of Whiskey, Honey, and Loving. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about flasks. Has Bottled in Bond changed since the last time you were on the show? How many bourbons are Bottled in Bond? Do you still love Bottled in Bond? Talk about corn whiskey. Tell us about the process for selecting Parker's. Where do you think we are going with pricing in bourbon? Do you get any pushback from retailers about having allocated items in your gift shop? What are your thoughts on private barrel picks? Talk about the Black Velvet acquisition. @BernieLubbers Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Michter's Barrel Strength Kentucky Rye Whiskey. This non-age stated rye is 110.8 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. @michterswhiskey Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's roundtable tackles a new topic that took most of us by surprise. About 3 weeks ago, when I was doing a label approval for our Four Roses barrels, I was given an additional contract to sign that was called a non-mutilation agreement. Basically stating that we agree to not add any stickers, wax, or anything that alters the package. Will other distilleries follow suit? What happens if someone breaks the contract? We give our opinions on that plus, if we think blends are going to become the new single barrels. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about what smooth means. Four Roses bans stickers for private barrels. Is this good or bad? Do you think other distilleries will start banning stickers? How do you enforce the ban? Does the ban violate freedom of speech? How can you set your pick apart from other picks? Are blends the new single barrels? Thanks to @bourbonr, @breakingbourbon, and @sippn_corn for joining. 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 The 117 Series: High Angels' Share. This non-age stated bourbon is 110 proof and $50 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. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We talk to the largest liquor retailer that you never knew about...Kroger. Yes, the huge grocery chain that has liquor stores adjacent to almost every location. When you add it up, it's thousands of square feet of retail space spread over hundreds of stores. We're joined by Chris Blandford, who is the Adult Beverage Field Specialist for Kentucky, Southern Indian, and Southern Illinois Kroger stores. We talk about the challenges of operating over 115 stores, distribution, competition, barrel picks, and of course allocation. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about spirits competitions. What is your fast food restaurant of choice on a road trip? How do you manage inventory for so many stores? How do you use data to predict what people will buy? What are the challenges of distribution? Talk about the store experience. Are larger or smaller stores more difficult to manage? How do you distribute products? What is the most stolen item? How do you approach pricing? Do you try to compete with pricing against the larger liquor stores? What is the method for allocated items? If Sazerac increased their pricing on Pappy, would there still be lotteries? Talk about your barrel picks. Do you have a favorite barrel pick? Any other challenges? What product doesn't move as well as you think it would? Are there any plans to grow? Will Kroger ever deliver or ship? 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 Straight Rye Whiskey Finished in Cognac Casks. This non-age stated rye is 94 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. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Denny Potter has held multiple roles in the bourbon industry and many thought that being the Master Distiller at Heaven Hill would be the pinnacle of anyone's career. In 2018, Denny left Heaven Hill and assumed the role of Master Distiller at Maker's Mark which surprised many. In this episode, we talk about career growth as a Master Distiller and advice to give others aspiring for this role in the industry. And Fred tries to convince Denny to release a 12 year old Maker's Mark. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the three tier system. What made you decide to go to Maker's Mark? Do you feel like you have an opportunity to grow or have you hit the ceiling as a Master Distiller? What's it been like working with Rob Samuels? What do you bring to the table as a Master Distiller? How long should someone work in operations before becoming a Master Distiller? Will you ever put out a 12 year old product? Talk about the operations at Maker's. What are the challenges of scaling while trying to keep the integrity of the brand? What was different when you came back to Maker's? What is the difference between operating Maker's vs. Bernheim Distillery? Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Maker's Mark FAE-01. This non-age stated bourbon is 110.6 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. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of the biggest crazes right now is the single barrel. That special barrel that was chosen from a select few and shared with a bunch of people, most likely with a sticker on it. And as Ryan so eloquently puts it, it's the perfect product. It's a consumable, it's one of a kind, and there will never be another. Myself, Ryan and Fred have done our fair share of single barrels, probably selecting over 250 combined and probably tasting over a thousand at different distilleries. We've seen it all. In this episode, we talk about what we prefer when we do a private barrel selection experience. And speaking of single barrels, don't forget we have our own private barrel club where we select over 40 different barrels every year. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about deciding what to drink. What is your favorite part about a barrel pick? Would it still be exciting if everyone drilled into the barrel vs. thieving? What do you think about distilleries pre-picking barrels to select from? What is a good number of barrels you should be able to taste through when picking? How do you feel about proofing down the barrel pick? Do you have a glassware preference? Snacks or no snacks during a barrel pick? Should distilleries provide lunch? 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 Fitzgerald Bottled-In-Bond Spring 2021. This 8 year old bourbon is 100 proof and $85 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this 56th Bourbon Community Roundtable, we discuss what it means to Kentucky Owl now that Dixon Dedman is leaving the brand, what does Indiana Rye Whiskey mean as a new legal designation, and now that there are 10 million barrels aging in Kentucky, will we see an oncoming glut of bourbon in a few years? Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the color of whiskey. Dixon Dedman leaves KY Owl. What does that mean for the brand? What does Indiana Rye Whiskey mean as a new legal designation? Now that there are 10M barrels aging in KY, will we see a glut of bourbon in a few years? Thanks to @bourbonr, @breakingbourbon, and @sippn_corn for joining. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Woodford Reserve Master's Collection Very Fine Rare Bourbon. This non-age stated bourbon is 90.4 proof and $130 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it mean to be an influencer? Actually, what's the deal with bourbon and Instagram and why is it so popular? We're joined by Eric Kim of @scotchandtime and James Ashcraft of @bourbonenthusiast to analyze these questions and many more. It's a great insight into how social media and whiskey join forces to provide hours of entertainment, but also some annoyances. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick talks about independent liquor stores. Are you a thrill seeker or do you enjoy relaxing? How did you start and grow your Instagram account? When did you get your first media sample? Do you see more brands using Instagram influencers? Do you think Instagram has a good ROI for brands? Why do people love day themed Instagram posts? How often do you post and when? Have you seen an influx of new bourbon content creators and is there enough room for everyone? How much time to you put into your Instagram account? What do you think of accounts who pay for followers? What do you think of people only posting pictures of sealed bottles? Talk about your whiskey reviews. What really is an influencer? What good things have come out of Instagram for you? Follow @scotchandtime and @bourbonenthusiast on Instagram. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Wheel Horse Bourbon. This 2 year old bourbon is 101 proof and $32 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Last Drop Distillers is known for acquiring extremely old and rare spirits from across the world. We chat with Rebecca Jago, Managing Director of The Last Drop Distillers, to hear their story. It's an interesting history of generational knowledge and their release of the 1980 Buffalo Trace is what caught our attention. We even got a chance to try it on a past Whiskey Quickie and it blew us away. Listen to hear about their partnership with Sazerac and how they plan to sustain their business model. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick talks about used rye barrels. What is on your bucket list? What is The Last Drop Distillers? Do you have an emotional standard when tasting a rare whiskey? How do you grow and sustain a business like this? Do you seek out sellers or do they seek you out? How do you determine if something is really unique or rare? Talk about the 1980 Buffalo Trace. Tell us about the rationale behind the pricing. Do you think bourbon is deserving or price point like this? @lastdropdistillers Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Rod & Hammer's Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This 2 year old bourbon is 90 proof and $42 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today's episode, the team sits down to discuss young whiskey. Is it a good thing or a bad thing? There are all sorts of angles because in this ever-changing landscape of losing age statements, craft distillers putting out amazing products at young ages, and bourbon drinkers continually looking for something new, we have to ask ourselves... is the age of the whiskey less important? Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick talks about daily bourbon drinking limits. What is your whiskey age range preference? What about craft distillers outside of Kentucky? How do craft distillers treat consumers differently than the bigger distillers? What do you think about using different grains? How do you fight the stigma of young whiskey? Let's talk about pricing young whiskey. How important is packaging for craft whiskey? Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Single Cask Nation 1994 Kentucky Bourbon. This 24 year old bourbon is 94.8 proof and $295 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: This whiskey in this review was purchased by Bourbon Pursuit for reviewing. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The roundtable is back with another discussion about bourbon news and our take on it. We discuss Heaven Hill vs Log Still Distilling over the use of the Dant name and trademark, what does direct to consumer shipping in Kentucky mean now that distilleries can cut out the wholesalers, and if you were to spend your $1,400 stimulus check on bourbon, what would get? Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick talks about posting bourbon on Instagram. Heaven Hill has opened up a lawsuit against the Dant family for trying to use their family name as it infringes upon their label. Kentucky HB415 has been signed into law with new direct to consumer laws that bypass the 3 tier system. $1,400 stimulus checks are going out. If you are going to spend $1,400 on bourbon, what are you getting? Thanks to @Bourbonr, @Sippn_Corn, and @BreakingBourbon for joining. 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 Wm. Tarr Manchester Reserve. This 7 year old whiskey is 114 proof and $80 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today's show, we get to feature two great people at Bardstown Bourbon Company, Dan Callaway and Nick Smith. Bardstown Bourbon Company exploded on the scene as a destination hot spot for anyone visiting the trail and Dan was instrumental to the early success of creating a red carpet environment for anyone who visited. As whiskey production ramped up, Nick Smith brought his knowledge from working at Jim Beam to help customers create custom mash bills and guide them in the right direction to put a new spin on the distillation process that would be uniquely theirs. So next time you're headed to Bardstown, don't forget to make Bardstown Bourbon Company a must visit. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick talks about bourbon branded credit cards. What made you decided to come work at Bardstown Bourbon Company? What was the original vision for Bardstown Bourbon Company and how has it changed? Are banana croquettes a real thing? What lessons did you learn coming from Jim Beam to Bardstown Bourbon Company? How do you accommodate so many different mash bills? How do you work together? Is there a baseline for the mash bills? Are there any limitations on the mash bills? How do you guide customers to different cooperages? Do you help brands with marketing and packaging? Can this be a tourist destination for brands that contract through you? Tell us about the Discovery Series. Talk about the vintage library. What is the timeline for the bottling facility? How much of the distillery process is automated? What's a changeover? What is Pete's Place? Tell us about the Kentucky Proud product. Follow @bbc_whiskeynick, @dannybardstown, @bardstownbourboncompany Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Buzzard's Roost Toasted Barrel Rye. This 3 year old rye is 105 proof and $80 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's a lot of whiskey out there and sometimes we get caught up in our bubble of bourbon. On this episode, I'm joined by Chris Perugini who does private tastings and boasts a lot of worldly whiskies on his instagram account @SingleMaltSavvy. He sent me a few blind samples and we discuss them to see what resonates with me as a bourbon drinker. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick talks about pairing music with bourbon. For more information about the Scotches discussed in this episode visit: https://www.singlemaltsavvy.com/guides/scotch-for-the-bourbon-drinker/ What was your first car? Scotch Tasting What's a good brand for a new scotch drinker? What are the differences between Scotch and bourbon? Tell us about the Scotches you selected. How are these priced? Are they removing age statements from Scotch like they are in bourbon? What is the Pappy of the Scotch world? 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 Musician. This 2 year old bourbon is 98.4 proof and $45 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Belle Meade is a very recognizable brand to bourbon enthusiasts. But how did that brand get revived and what's the story behind Nelson's Green Brier? We're joined by Charlie Nelson, Co-Founder of Nelson's Green Brier, who shares his story of stumbling into the bourbon business when his dad purchased a quarter of a cow. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick talks about helping others understand your bourbon hobby. What's your best halloween costume? How did this journey begin? Talk about building your business plan. Do you consider Belle Meade your flagship? When using old labels from the archive, did you have to get them re-approved? What is your DSP? Where did you get your recipes? Talk about building the Belle Meade and Nelson's Green Brier Distillery brands. Tell us about the success of the Belle Meade brand. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Saint Cloud 7 Year Single Barrel. This 7 year old bourbon is 122.4 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. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're back with another BCR and this time we have 3 topics to discuss. The rise and fall of facebook groups since it seems like no group is safe now. Does knowing the source of a bourbon impact your willingness to buy or not buy? At what point does craft bourbon stop being craft? Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick talks about losing your sense of taste after being sick. Are bourbon Facebook groups dead? Does knowing the source change your mind about a product? When does craft bourbon stop being craft? Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review The Prideful Goat. This 15 year old bourbon is 115 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. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's a few OGs in the world of whiskey, and one of the most notable names is Ryan Maloney. You may not know that name, but you've likely heard of his store in Massachusetts called Julio's Liquors and the famous picks done by the Loch & Key Society. Ryan takes us on a trip down memory lane when private barrel selections were abundant and limited releases weren't so limited. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick talks about storing vintage spirits. What carnival food can you not resist? Tell us about Julio's the and Loch & Key Society. When did you realize how important barrel picks would be? Have you ever picked a Van Winkle? Tell us about some of your barrel picks. What's on the forefront of barrel picks? Have you created your own private label or do you plan to? Talk about blending. What is your thought process on collaborations with other stores? Are you getting less allocations because of the rise in popularity of bourbon? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Alberta Premium Cask Strength Rye. This non-age stated whiskey is 132 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. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

MGP has been in the news recently with their acquisition of Luxco and on the last roundtable we discussed how this will enable MGP's brands such as Remus to gain a nationwide presence with a bigger salesforce. We're joined by Andy Mansinne, Vice President of Brands for MGP, to learn more about their brands and the impact of other brands winning awards based on product sourced from them. We also ask about acquiring brands and their thoughts on the current contract distillation marketplace. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick talks about how to clean glencairns. Where would you travel if you knew there was a chance you would have to stay there for up to a year? Tell us about your background. What do you think about other brands getting awards with your distillate? Do you feel like your brands are more accepted in the whiskey world now than when you first started? When you were looking at creating a brand, what were your thoughts on building from the ground up vs. acquiring an established brand? What do you think about MGP rye having such a big impact on the market? What are your thoughts on your contract distilling competition? How do you forecast? Tell us about your brands. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Widow Jane The Vaults 2020. This 15 year old bourbon is 99 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. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Single barrel picks are the new unicorns. And if you add a fancy sticker, after market wax or some glitter, bourbon nerds can't control themselves. For this podcast, the team thought it would be a fun idea if our audience sent us samples from their New Riff barrel selections and we put them in a bracket challenge. We decide who selected the best barrel and gets Bourbon Pursuit bragging rights. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick talks about tipping for high end pours. Why did we pick New Riff for this bracket? New Riff Tasting Cleveland Bourbon Club - “New Riff Passed Elijah” - Ryan Lintz Charred Barrel - “Happy Little Riff” - Chris Perugini Knoxville Beer & Brown Water Society - ”Kings of Grain Jackpot" - Jimmy Tucker Sacred Sippers - “Holy Water 19:1" - Mike Utech Brown Bunker Coalition - “The Colin Bottle"- Dirk Glahn Wright-Patt Whiskey Club - Andy Hostetter Kentucky Bourbon Brotherhood - “Ken Riffey Jr” - Todd Hall Great Lakes Whiskey Club - “Riff Ross" - Mike Schuette Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Thomas S. Moore Port Cask Finish. This non-age stated bourbon is 98.9 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. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

MGP, the major powerhouse distillery in Indiana, has purchased Luxco who owns Lux Row distillers in Bardstown that produces legacy and heritage brands such as Rebel Yell, Ezra Brooks, Davies County, and many more. But what does this mean? The roundtable gets together and speculates on what we can expect for these brands as well as MGP's existing brands such as Remus. But what does this ultimately mean for brands that have been sourcing MGP bourbon and rye for decades? Have we just witnessed the end of one avenue for sourced markets? Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick talks about pairing bourbon with Girl Scout Cookies. MGP buys LuxCo. What does this mean for the largest supplier of contract whiskey? Was this a good move? What will happen to the MGP sourced brands? What do you think will happen with Yellowstone? Will Luxco use MGP distillate? Do you think Luxco will do contract distillation? Thanks to Blake from Bourbonr.com, Nick from BreakingBourbon.com, and Brian from SippnCorn.com for joining. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Blue Run Bourbon 13 Year Winter Release. This 13 year old bourbon is 113 proof and $169 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Pat Heist blew our minds back on episode 121 going deep on yeast. If you haven't listened to that episode yet, go listen to that one first before starting this, I promise it will be worth your time. Pat has one of the most unique backgrounds in bourbon and has even had the opportunity to do a TED Talk which is amazing for our industry. We discuss the crazy growth at Wilderness Trail. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick talks about blind tastings. What's your title? Would you rather travel back in time to meet your ancestors or the future to meet your descendants? Any new products in the pipeline? How do you forecast? How much are you producing per day? Who's idea was it to invest so much in the business? Tell us about your TedX talk. What's your next milestone? Where can people buy Wilderness Trail? How have you and your bourbon been received across the country? How do you chose a yeast variety for your product? How does your process compare to other distilleries? What happens when people dip their finger in the fermentation tanks? Can you recreate whiskey from the 70s? Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Remus Repeal Reserve IV. This 12 year old bourbon is 100 proof and $80 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gregg Walker joins the show to share some inside stories about the history at Maker's Mark. Gregg was the second salesperson hired by Maker’s Mark and took part in 3X growth. Hear some of his stories about the struggle of growth, but also how him and Bill Samuels Jr. had a lot of fun as well. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick talks about raffles. What song would you pick for karaoke? When did you get into the liquor business? Did you have to take the personality test before working at Maker's Mark? Were you part of any of the Maker's taste offs? Tell us about traveling for Makers. How do you plan for aggressive growth? What was the tipping point? How many cases were they selling? Talk about Maker's marketing. Were you there when the did the special edition UK bottle in 1996? Any memories with Bill Samuels that you'll never forget? What was your sales force like in the later years? What do you do 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 Woodford Reserve Baccarat Edition. This non-age stated bourbon is 90.4 proof and $2,000 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Building a brand on sourced whiskey is difficult. When you’re not the one distilling the product, it’s hard to be price competitive. At the same time, you're at the mercy of the market on barrel availability so it's hard to determine the continuation of a product. In this episode, we're joined by McCauley Williams, CEO of Big River Distilling, who is behind brands like Blue Note Bourbon and Riverset Rye. We talk about how to run a large scale business that relies on sourcing and how you protect the brands flavor integrity for the future. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick talks about empty bottles. What game show would you want to be a contestant on? How did you get into this business? What was the first step to start a spirits business? How did you raise capital to make this happen? Tell us about your brands. Did you have a proof of concept? How do you select a distillation partner? Talk about the competitiveness of the sourced market. Tell us about the pricing of sourced whiskey. How do you differentiate your products? Why 93 proof? How do you get a brand to market? Any states you've seen success in that you didn't expect? Which is a better ROI, liquor stores or bars/restaurants? Do you experience any frustrations with acquiring packaging materials? Any other frustrations with the business? 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 85th Anniversary. This 13 year old bourbon is 107 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. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's podcast is looking forward in 2021. No one could have predicted the events of 2020, but let's look into our magic 8 ball and see what we think will happen to bourbon in 2021. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick talks about bottle closures. We discuss our 2021 predictions for the bourbon and whiskey market. Thanks to Blake from Bourbonr.com, Nick from BreakingBourbon.com, and Brian from SippnCorn.com for joining. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Blackened Cask Strength. This non-age stated whiskey is 110.7 proof and $55 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bourbon societies are becoming prolific across the globe. But here's the thing, they all do something different that makes them unique. In this episode, we are joined by representatives from the Dallas Bourbon Club, The Bourbon Society of Greater Cincinnati, and KOBBE (Kentucky's Original Black Bourbon Enthusiasts). We get a deeper understanding of how each society operates from a social, educational, and philanthropic perspective. If you're looking to start a society or grow your own, here's a chance to listen how these fellas do it. Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick talks about StraightBourbon.com. We are joined by Jamar Mack (KOBBE), Pete Schmidt (Dallas Bourbon Club), and Todd Carnes (Bourbon Society of Greater Cincinnati). What's the weirdest food you've ever eaten? How are you trying to reach new members? How is your group different from other bourbon groups? Do you have a motto? How are you putting on events? How are you involved with charities? Do you do any bourbon education? How do you get people to present to your group? How many women do you have in your group? Talk about your barrel picks. 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 Reserve Single Barrel. This non-age stated bourbon 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. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You all see and hear from Kenny, Ryan, and Fred, but there's a critical fourth member of this team. Lauren Coleman has been in the media space for her whole career and took the quality of Bourbon Pursuit episodes to another level. In this quick interview, get to know a little bit about Lauren. Show Notes: Tell us about your podcast editing process. How did you get into video editing? How many days a week do you miss working for Heaven Hill? Are you ever worried about Kenny spending too much on bourbon and not being able to pay the mortgage? What's one thing most people don't know about Kenny and Ryan that you think they should know? If you were to host a podcast, what would it be about? How do you keep a work/life balance? Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review The Last Drop XIX Buffalo Trace 1980. This 40 year old bourbon is 90 proof and $4,600 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's episode features the Master Distiller from Barton 1792, Danny Kahn. Danny comes from a background of brewing beer that led him to working with some high profile names, that ultimately took him to whiskey. Danny brought some samples to try where the lowest proof was 125 and then they creep up to 160 proof! We talk about what happens when he finds barrels like these and our wishes for what we could do with them. Who wouldn't want a single barrel of it? Show Notes: This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick talks about whiskey stories. Where are you from? Do you have any interesting scars? Tell us about the whiskey you brought today. Talk about your history in brewing beer. What were your early recipes like? Are you doing any distillery expansion or improvements? Tell us about Ridgemont Reserve. How long have you been at 1792? How does a bourbon get to 160 proof? Is it hard to take a high proof aged bourbon and proof it down? Tell us about your distilling process. How do you forecast the future bourbon needs? Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Huling Station Straight Bourbon. This non-age stated high rye bourbon is 100 proof and $38 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers! DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly. Support this Podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices