Podcast
Bourbon Lens
Hosted by Bourbon Lens · EN
Bourbon Lens is the podcast for every whiskey drinker. During this project, we look to explore the whiskey and bourbon industry, learn more about our favorite spirit, and interview industry insiders, makers, entrepreneurs, and business people. We welcome you on this journey with us.
Bourbon Lens was founded by Jake and Scott from Louisville, Kentucky. We have grown our appreciation for Kentucky's native spirit and look to learn all that we can about every type of whiskey. We welcome you to pour a glass of whiskey and join us. We are always looking for show topics, discussion starters, and new whiskies to try. Contact us on social media or send us an email to: Info@BourbonLens.com with ideas, comments, or questions.
50episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
388: How Woodford Reserve Masters Tradition & Innovation with Elizabeth McCall
5d ago00:29:07Tap to summarizeDive into the rich history, craftsmanship, and innovative spirit of Woodford Reserve in this exclusive interview with Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall. Since bursting onto the scene in 1996, Woodford Reserve has been a driving force in revitalizing the Kentucky bourbon industry and inspiring the world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail.In this episode, Elizabeth pulls back the curtain on how the iconic brand maintains its premium, complex flavor profile while remaining remarkably accessible to whiskey lovers everywhere. We explore their unique triple pot distillation process, the critical role of Kentucky limestone water, and how meticulous sensory and analytical testing ensure flawless batch consistency.Plus, get a firsthand look into the future of bourbon as Elizabeth shares details on Woodford’s cutting-edge agricultural innovations—including the Heirloom Red Corn release and the Kentucky Rye Project. Whether you're a casual fan of their signature Double Oaked or a seasoned whiskey connoisseur, this episode is packed with insights into the art and science of bourbon making.⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 - Welcome and introduction to Elizabeth McCall, Master Distiller02:39 - History of Woodford Reserve and its role in Kentucky bourbon revitalization04:00 - The significance of water source and Kentucky's limestone influence06:33 - Innovation and leadership in premium bourbon through packaging and flavor development07:36 - Balancing luxury perception with accessible pricing08:47 - The meticulous process of quality control and batch consistency10:10 - The spectrum of flavor attributes in Woodford Reserve whiskey11:26 - Sensory profiling and the brand’s signature flavor complexity12:08 - Personal favorites and the appeal of Woodford Reserve Double Oaked13:56 - Unique distillation methods, including Irish-inspired triple pot distillation14:25 - Batch formulation and the challenge of maintaining consistency in natural products17:37 - Agricultural innovation: The Red Corn project and its flavor implications19:07 - Insights from growing heirloom varieties and the importance of farming practices20:50 - The role of grains like rye and corn in whiskey’s agricultural landscape22:48 - The master distiller's role in understanding and managing agricultural inputs24:12 - Navigating label laws, production costs, and consumer value25:36 - The breadth of Woodford Reserve’s portfolio and ongoing innovation27:07 - Future outlook: Balance between tradition, experimentation, and brand integrity28:54 - Elizabeth's legacy and aspirations for the next decade29:58 - Closing remarks and appreciation for curiosity and tradition in whiskey-making🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. 📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com 👕 Merch: https://bourbon-lens-shop.printify.me/products 💬 Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSU
Transcribe →
Rolling Fork’s REWCO Rye Review: Can It Match the Hype of Bourbon de Luxe? | Five Minute Fridays
1w ago00:05:27Tap to summarizeCan the blending masters at Rolling Fork Spirits pull off the exact same magic with a historic rye whiskey that they did with their massive Bourbon de Luxe revival?On this episode of Five Minute Fridays, Jake Lewellen cracks open and reviews the highly anticipated REWCO 6-Year Cask Strength Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey. Clocking in at 109.4 proof and priced at an approachable $59.99 MSRP, this bottle carries some serious historical weight.Named after R. E. Wathen (Richard E. Wathen), president of American Medicinal Spirits during Prohibition, REWCO is a brand resurrected straight out of the Wathen family’s 200-year distilling legacy. But how does it actually drink today?Jake breaks down the incredibly unique, hybrid flavor profile of this small batch. Blending three barrels of traditional 74% rye with two barrels of high-spice 95% rye, this pour delivers an unexpected wave of sweet corn, baking spices, citrus zest, and grilled peaches on the nose, followed by a deeply complex tropical fruit sweetness on the palate.Is this Pre-Prohibition revival "The Zenith of Possibility in Whiskey Quality," or does it get lost in a crowded rye market? Find out in under five minutes!⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 - The Ultimate Test: Can REWCO Rye beat Bourbon de Luxe?00:40 - The History of R.E. Wathen & American Medicinal Spirits01:10 - First Impressions: Bottle design and visual aesthetic02:35 - Tasting Notes: Diving into a nose of baking spices and grilled peaches02:55 - Flavor Profile: Unpacking the tropical fruit sweetness and citrus zest03:32 - Palate Experience: How the 109.4 cask strength proof holds up03:58 - Mouthfeel & Smoothness: Textural breakdown of the hybrid mashbill04:27 - The Finish: Subtlety, persistence, and lingering rye spice05:22 - Final Verdict: Is this $60 limited release worth the hunt?05:49 - Celebration ideas, future batch potential, and closing thoughts🔗 Resources & Links:Rolling Fork Spirits Official WebsiteConnect with Jake Lewellen: Twitter | LinkedIn🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. 📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com 👕 Merch: https://bourbon-lens-shop.printify.me/products 💬 Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSUHashtags#RewcoRye #RollingForkSpits #FiveMinuteFridays #BourbonLens #RyeWhiskey #WhiskeyReview #BourbonDeLuxe #CaskStrength #PreProhibition #KentuckyRyeKeywordsREWCO rye whiskey, Rolling Fork Spirits, R.E. Wathen, Bourbon de Luxe, whiskey review, Kentucky straight rye, cask strength rye, Turner Wathen, independent bottler, craft spirits, American Medicinal Spirits, Prohibition whiskey revival, whiskey tasting notes, craft rye blend, Seelbachs rye, Bourbon Lens, Bourbon Lens News
Transcribe →
387: Old Grand-Dad Legacy & Beam's High-Proof Revolving Door: Tasting & Brand Strategy
2w ago00:28:51Tap to summarizeOld Grand-Dad is a titan among budget bourbons, known for its punchy, high-rye mash bill. But the brand is evolving. In this episode, Jake and Scott dive into the deep history of Old Grand-Dad, tracing it from the 1800s through its current era under the Jim Beam umbrella.We explore the expanded lineup, from the standard 7-year bottled-in-bond to ultra-premium, age-stated releases like the rare 16-year. The core of this discussion, however, centers on the beloved 114 proof and the launch of the new signed single barrel variant. Can aging hide the signature OGD profile? Does Beam’s extensive line expansion threaten its core brands?We break down tasting notes, discuss warehouse terroir, and offer recommendations for all levels of bourbon explorers navigating this crowded, complex market.🌐 Visit Our Website: https://www.bourbonlens.com 👕 Get Your Bourbon Lens Merch: https://www.bourbonlens.com 💬 Join Our Discord Community: https://www.bourbonlens.com⏱️ TIMESTAMPS00:00 - Welcome and overview of bourbon topics 00:28 - Trip to the Clermont Supper Club 01:22 - The experience at Clermont Supper Club and community vibe 02:15 - Food, cocktails, and the immersive bourbon events 03:17 - State-of-the-art chefs, bartenders, and the culture of bourbon tastings 04:05 - Favorite cocktails, including the New York Sour 05:11 - Unique cocktail experiences at the Supper Club 05:42 - Highlighting the delicious food options and the Claremont location 06:15 - The whiskey shop and rare bottles like Old Grand-Dad 114 06:56 - Historical background of Old Grand-Dad and its origins 08:02 - The evolution of Old Grand-Dad under Jim Beam’s ownership and its high-rye mash bill 08:55 - The expansion of Old Grand-Dad lineup, including bottling proof and age statements 09:53 - The value and quality of the 7-year bottled-and-bond and 114 proof variants 11:33 - The contrast between regular Old Grand-Dad 114 and higher-age options like the 16-year 12:06 - Beam’s stock and availability of premium releases 13:42 - Introduction of the new Old Grand-Dad 114 single barrel, signed by Freddie Noe 14:03 - The industry trend of launching line extensions and premium offerings 15:27 - Market dynamics, pricing, and the future outlook of bourbon 16:37 - The flavor profiles of different Old Grand-Dad variants 17:03 - The nuances of cannibalization within whiskey brands and lineup strategy 18:18 - How Beam maintains a strong core lineup of affordable, quality bourbons 19:27 - The impact of age statements, proof, and price on consumer choices 20:05 - Recommendations for beginner to intermediate bourbon drinkers 21:36 - The role of recognizable brands in navigating a crowded bourbon market 22:20 - The evolution of whiskey knowledge and the host's own journey 23:40 - Sharing trust with your audience and personal recommendations 24:54 - Tasting notes on Old Grand-Dad 114 and the single barrel release 25:31 - Calorie content and drinking it responsibly 26:33 - Tasting profile: notes of corn, fruit, baking spices, and oak 27:11 - The proof’s influence on flavor and a perfect pour on a cube 27:36 - Flavor complexity and the fruit and spice medley 28:28 - Spice notes and balance in the flavor profile🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community.Please drink responsibly.
Transcribe →
FMF: Celebrating Eddie Russell’s 45th at Wild Turkey: The Legendary Russell’s 13 Return
2w ago00:05:28Tap to summarizeA summer job that turned into a 45-year legacy! In this episode of Bourbon Lens, we raise a glass to Wild Turkey Master Distiller Eddie Russell to celebrate his incredible 45th anniversary milestone at the distillery.We break down the highly anticipated spring release of Russell’s Reserve 13-Year-Old Bourbon, featuring a special commemorative label honoring Eddie’s craftsmanship. Bottled uncut at a unique 121-proof barrel proof, this rare and highly allocated expression brings a rich blend of history and flavor. Discover the inside story of how a rare 18-year-old barrel hand-pulled by Eddie during the filming of his new documentary, "His Own Way," made its way into this legendary 13-year blend.We also explore the pour's complex tasting notes, from initial aromas of citrus, baking spice, and cola, down to a heavy palate layered with rich fruit, sweet cola, rich tobacco, and smooth leather finishes. Plus, we share details on upcoming premiere events and exclusive screenings held at the Wild Turkey Visitor Center.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Wild Turkey’s Russell’s 13 and Eddie Russell’s milestone00:44 - Details of the limited release, proof, and historical context01:44 - Description of the whiskey’s packaging and thematic elements02:14 - The role of 18-year-old barrels in this blend02:44 - Upcoming cultural events: June 23rd screenings and tastings03:14 - Ticket info for the June 30th visitor center experience03:00 - Tasting notes: nose and aroma of citrus, baking spice, cola03:45 - The significance of Wild Turkey’s limited editions and Eddie’s dedication04:00 - Final thoughts on enjoying and sharing this special bourbon4:30- Closing remarks and toast to Eddie Russell and the Russell family🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. 📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com 👕 Merch: https://bourbon-lens-shop.printify.me/products 💬 Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSUHashtags#BourbonLens #WildTurkey #RussellsReserve13 #EddieRussell #BourbonTasting #LimitedRelease #MasterDistiller #BourbonCommunity #WhiskeyHistoryKeywordsRussell's 13, Wild Turkey, Eddie Russell 45th anniversary, Russell's Reserve 13 year, barrel proof bourbon, bourbon lens, wild turkey visitor center, his own way documentary, whiskey tasting notes, limited edition bourbon, allocated whiskey price, jimmy russell, kentucky straight bourbon, bourbon lens news
Transcribe →
The Science of Rye Terroir: How Far North Spirits Styles Farm-to-Glass Whiskey with Michael Swanson
3w ago00:53:13Tap to summarizeMost whiskey fans have never experienced a spirit that truly captures the essence of the land—until now. In this episode of the Bourbon Lens, we head to Minnesota to sit down with Michael Swanson, co-founder of Far North Spirits, to explore how agricultural choices, crop genetics, and soil health directly influence whiskey flavor.Michael shares his fascinating journey from farm kid to pioneering distiller, revealing how a passion for traditional agricultural techniques and groundbreaking scientific research are shaking up the craft distilling industry. Discover how planting specific rye varieties like AC Hazlet can transform a flavor profile in ways big industry can't replicate, and learn how Far North Spirits earned a major innovation award for proving the reality of whiskey terroir.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Far North Spirits and the episode focus02:02 - Michael Swanson's background — from farming to whiskey distillation04:54 - The story of AC Hazlet rye and flavor profile discovery07:18 - Research proving varietal impacts on whiskey flavor08:45 - Interaction with large distillers and grain qualities10:12 - Laboratory findings linking rye variety to flavor compounds12:22 - Soil and environment effects on rye flavor profiles13:33 - Recognition of place-based innovation in whiskey15:01 - Climate effects on aging and angel share dynamics16:27 - Crop rotation, pollinators, and soil health for flavor benefits18:10 - The importance of regional agriculture practices and terroir20:37 - Old techniques and rediscovering traditional farming knowledge22:48 - Collaborative projects with blends and industry partnerships26:36 - Impact of farming scale on grain identity and flavor29:12 - The evolution of American whiskey and sense of place32:21 - Whiskey tasting notes: Hazlet and Rhochner profiles33:55 - Price points and market positioning of estate-grown whiskey36:19 - Future aging plans and bottle releases39:14 - Crafting gin and Demerara-style rum from regional ingredients43:36 - Climate considerations for ultra-aging and long-term storage45:54 - The influence of Minnesota oak and northern terroir50:32 - Whiskey as a celebration of community and tradition54:37 - Final thoughts and how to support Far North SpiritsWhether you are a bourbon enthusiast, a fan of rye whiskey, or curious about the science of soil-to-sip spirits, this episode will completely change the way you think about the landscape captured in your bottle.🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. 📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com 👕 Merch: https://bourbon-lens-shop.printify.me/products 💬 Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSUHashtags#BourbonLens #FarNorthSpirits #RyeWhiskey #WhiskeyTerroir #FarmToGlass #CraftDistilling #WhiskeyScience #MichaelSwanson #EstateWhiskey
Transcribe →
Craft Whiskey Milestones: New Riff’s 10-Year-Old High Note Bourbon and Rye
3w ago00:06:40Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Five Minute Fridays, we explore an incredible milestone in the craft spirits movement: the triumphant resurgence of aged craft whiskeys. Leading the charge is Northern Kentucky’s own New Riff Distilling with their highly anticipated, limited-edition 10-Year-Old High Note Bourbon and Rye releases. We dive deep into the production details, mash bills, and proof strengths, alongside an honest review of the sensory tasting experiences.The Rise of Double-Digit Craft WhiskeyFor years, major legacy distilleries dominated the double-digit age statement landscape. However, craft powerhouses like New Riff, Starlight, and Peerless are proving that patience pays off in the craft whiskey world. As these distilleries cross the 10-year mark, they are unleashing rich, deep flavor profiles that rival any bottle on the shelf.Head-to-Head: The Mash Bills & ProofsNew Riff's latest decade-old duo showcases the distillery’s flagship recipes, allowed to mature to peak complexity:10-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon: Clocking in at 116.9 proof, this expression features a high-rye mash bill of 65% corn, 30% rye, and 5% malted barley.10-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Rye: This 118-proof powerhouse utilizes a traditional 95% rye and 5% malted rye mash bill.Tasting & Sensory ReviewInspired by John from the Embellished Podcast, this review emphasizes the crucial value of revisiting high-integrity whiskey over multiple days to truly unlock its full, evolving complexity.New Riff 10-Year Bourbon NotesNose: Rich aroma highlighted by deep tobacco, plum, and a bright layer of citrus rind.Palate: A complex interplay of mature oak tannins, dark cherry, and honeyed peach.Finish: Long, spicy, and satisfyingly warm with a heavy rye-driven influence.New Riff 10-Year Rye NotesNose: Expressive and punchy with dominant spearmint, vanilla, and sweet honey.Palate: A beautifully juicy, well-rounded mouthfeel layered with sweet cinnamon sugar, lemon zest, and hints of ripe peach.Finish: Distinctly spiced and balanced. While our host personally leans toward the bourbon, both bottles are undeniable contenders for whiskey of the year.Limited Release DetailsThese high-integrity, barrel-proof, and non-chill-filtered whiskeys are limited-run creations. If you are a resident of or visitor to Northern Kentucky, do not miss your chance to head to the distillery, secure these rare bottles, and taste history in the making.Featured Resources & ConnectionsDistillery Info: https://newriffwhiskeyclub.com/🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. Keep this at the bottom📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens 🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.comMerch: https://bourbon-lens-shop.printify.me/productsDiscord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSU
Transcribe →
385: The Art of Japanese Whisky: Savoring Suntory & The Perfect Toki Highball!
4w ago00:42:06Tap to summarizeStep into the fascinating world of Japanese spirits as we explore the artistry, heritage, and meticulous culture behind Japanese whisky. In this episode of Bourbon Lens, we sit down with House of Suntory's Advocacy Manager, James Bowker, to celebrate Toki Highball Week and deconstruct over a century of liquid craftsmanship.We track the incredible evolution of Japanese whisky, starting from Shinjiro Torii and the founding of the legendary Yamazaki Distillery. Discover how Japan's early isolation and cultural philosophies like kaizen (continuous improvement) and ichigo-ichie (treasuring the unrepeatable moment) shaped a production style distinctly different from Scotch and American whiskey.We break down the new strict labeling standards and regulations implemented to combat "fake" Japanese whiskies, giving you the knowledge to shop authentically. Plus, James guides us through a side-by-side tasting of the approachable Suntory Toki Classic versus the rich, smoky Toki Black expression. Finally, you'll learn the master techniques required to craft the perfect Japanese Highball at home, from precise water-to-whisky proportions to ice manipulation. Stream now and elevate your highball game!Episode Chapters & Timestamps:00:05 — Welcome and Overview of the Episode01:06 — The History of Japanese Whisky and Cultural Background02:32 — Shinjiro Torii and the Origins of House of Suntory03:57 — Craftsmanship and Blending Techniques in Japanese Whisky05:35 — Artistic and Cultural Influences: Hibiki, Hakushu, and Yamazaki08:17 — Suntory's Product Tiers and Core Portfolio Profiles10:42 — Fighting Counterfeits: New Japanese Whisky Standards and Certifications17:48 — Celebrating Toki Highball Week & the Ichigo-Ichie Philosophy19:17 — Masterclass: How to Craft an Authentic Japanese Highball at Home26:13 — Tasting & Comparison: Toki Classic vs. Toki Black Smoky Expression36:14 — Summer Culinary Pairings and Creative Whisky Cocktail InnovationsResources & Featured Links From the Show:The House of Suntory: Official WebsiteExplore the Lineup: Yamazaki, Hakushu, Hibiki, & Chita DistilleryIndustry Insights: Official JSLMA Japanese Whisky StandardsSupport the Show: Bourbon Lens Patreon / Bourbon LensSeven Cocktails & Bourbon Suntory 100 VideosSubscribe & Community Links🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. 📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com 👕 Grab Our Gear: https://bourbon-lens-shop.printify.me/products
Transcribe →
FMF: Old Glory The Ultimate Whiskey Collaboration - Chicken Cock & Laird's Reviewed
4w ago00:02:55Tap to summarizeDiscover the unique American spirit of Chicken Cock’s Old Glory, a special, highly innovative whiskey crafted in celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary. In this episode of Bourbon Lens, we explore the historic significance, stunning patriotic artwork, and the remarkable liquid collaboration behind this iconic bottle.We break down the innovative liquid profile: a 100-proof marriage of premium Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey and Laird's Apple Brandy. You will get our full, unfiltered personal impressions and detailed tasting notes—from the initial baking spice and citrus zest on the nose to the complex stewed fruit and balanced vanilla notes on the palate.Whether you are a hardcore fan of traditional rye whiskey, an admirer of historic apple brandy traditions, or a collector looking for an affordable way to commemorate American distilling heritage, this heritage brand mashup is a must-try bottle that absolutely delivers on value. Dive in with us as we experience a true taste of Americana!Episode Chapters & Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Chicken Cock's Old Glory Whiskey & America's 250th00:28 - Liquid Breakdown: Kentucky Rye Meets Laird's Apple Brandy (100 Proof)01:58 - Historical Context: Two Heritage Spirits Brands Aligning02:22 - Official Tasting Notes: Nose, Palate, & Flavor Profile Insights03:13 - Personal Impressions & Cultural Significance for American Distillers03:42 - Community Involvement, Swag, Merchandise, & Patreon PerksResources & Featured Links:Featured Whiskey: Chicken Cock Old Glory WhiskeySupport the Show: Bourbon Lens Patreon Want Our Merch: Buy NowSubscribe & Community Links🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. 📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com 💬 Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSUHashtags#BourbonLens #ChickenCock #OldGloryWhiskey #LairdsApple Brandy #RyeWhiskey #AmericanDistilling #WhiskeyReview #BourbonLensNewsKeywordsChicken Cock Old Glory review, Kentucky straight rye whiskey, Laird's apple brandy blend, America 250th anniversary bottle, historic American spirits, apple brandy rye blend, 100 proof rye whiskey, affordable allocated whiskey, premium spirits collaboration, automated tasting notes, Bourbon Lens, Bourbon Lens News
Transcribe →
384: Kaveh Zamanian On The Future of Rabbit Hole and Beyond
May 2600:27:12Tap to summarizeMost bourbon brands focus solely on production volume—but Rabbit Hole Distillery proves there is a much smarter way to stand out in a crowded market. On this episode of Bourbon Lens, host Jake Lewellen sits down with the visionary founder of Rabbit Hole, Kaveh Zemanian, to explore how bold architectural design, regional storytelling, and uncompromised craftsmanship are actively reshaping the future of American whiskey.As the spirits industry faces a massive cyclical shift, Kaveh shares an expert masterclass on brand resilience. We go behind the scenes of Rabbit Hole’s small-batch and experimental spirit programs, unpacking everything from innovative wood finishes to the strategic rise of flavored whiskeys designed to invite a new wave of consumers into the category. Kaveh breaks down the complex market dynamics of 2026—including the strategic choices behind their historic Mary Dowling brand extension, the reality of a global whiskey oversupply, and the massive ongoing transformation of alcohol distribution via e-commerce and Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) channels.Whether you are an aspiring spirits entrepreneur, a marketing strategist, or a whiskey connoisseur, this episode delivers actionable insights on carving your own lane, leveraging experiential tourism in Louisville, and building an authentic, future-proof whiskey brand.Timestamps:00:00 | Introduction & Episode Overview01:03 | The Past 20 Years: Macro Landscape of the American Bourbon Industry02:46 | Surviving the Cycle: Managing Downturns and Building Brand Resilience03:39 | Geographics of Spirit Growth: Regional Identity vs. National Expansion05:07 | Destination Distilling: The Architectural Distillery as a Visitor Magnet06:22 | Beyond the Standard Barrel: Crafting Small-Format & Experimental Whiskeys07:36 | Product Formatting: Innovating Expression Profiles for Consumer Appeal09:33 | Expanding the Tent: Utilizing Flavored Whiskeys to Attract New Drinkers10:55 | Liquid Gifting: Consumer Trends in Premium Bottle Gifting12:33 | The Legend of Mary Dowling: Reviving a Unique Historical Story14:05 | Timeline of a Brand: Launch Strategies and Long-Term Development16:02 | Deep Dive: The Journey and Creative Process Behind Offshoot Expressions17:38 | Flavor Chemistry: Collaborative Innovations with Premier Flavor Houses18:48 | Logistics of Liquid: Balancing Sourcing, Blending, and Custom Production20:11 | The Recovery Strategy: Rebuilding a Premium Brand in Today’s Economic Climate21:30 | The Three-Tier Challenge: Evolving Distribution Landscapes and Digital Shifts24:25 | The Aged Whiskey Surplus: Market Impacts and Consumer Opportunities25:53 | Market Swings: How Macro Changes Impact Distilling Communities27:17 | Bourbon Tourism: Louisville’s Role in Community and Economic Revitalization29:11 | Honoring the Roots: Historical Distilling Support for Local Agricultural Communities30:25 | The Next Chapter: Authenticity, Experiential Marketing, and the Future of Whiskey Tourism🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. 📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens 🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSU
Transcribe →
383: Reconstructing History with Ari Sussman of Whiskey Jypsi
May 1800:42:46Tap to summarizeCan a celebrity-backed whiskey brand actually change the way American spirits are made? In this episode of Bourbon Lens (383), Jake Lewellen sits down with the ultimate industry outsider turned mad scientist: Ari Sussman, the whiskey maker behind country star Eric Church’s Whiskey Jypsi.We take a deep dive into their most ambitious and historically significant release yet: Legacy Batch 003: "The Declaration." Conceived as a liquid tribute to America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, this bottle completely reimagines Colonial-era Maryland-style rye. Ari breaks down the insane logistics behind this 60/30/10 cross-category blend, which features 8-to-12-year-old Indiana rye finished in apple brandy casks sourced directly from George Washington's Mount Vernon Distillery, 25-year-old Canadian corn whiskey, and a touch of Virginia single malt. From the pioneering use of agricultural gene editing (like the "Lavender Haze" grain) to the hidden Easter egg behind its 115.74 proof statement, this episode proves why Whiskey Jypsi is leaving standard sourced bourbon behind to stage an American whiskey revolution.In this episode, we explore:The Outsider Ethos: How Ari's background in French wine harvests shapes his approach to "noble grains."Deconstructing "The Declaration": Breaking down the components of an ultra-complex $200 blend.The Mount Vernon Connection: Finishing MGP 95/5 rye in actual historic apple brandy barrels.Punk-Rock Rye: Why Ari believes rye—not bourbon—is the true whiskey of revolutionaries.Agricultural Innovation: Looking at the future of heirloom grains and gene-edited varietals.Hidden in the Proof: The incredible historical meaning behind the 115.74 bottling strength.Timestamps:00:00 | Introduction: Catching Up with Whiskey Maker Ari Sussman02:15 | The Jypsi Lineup: Legacy, Explorer, and Tribute Series07:45 | Celebrity Brands Done Right: Eric Church and Authentic Leadership10:30 | Noble Grains: Heirloom Varietals and Agricultural Philosophy15:00 | The Cutting Edge: Can Gene Editing Revolutionize Whiskey Grains?20:45 | Wood & Stave Innovation: Designing Cross-Category Complexity25:30 | Reclaiming the Past: The Rise and Fall of Maryland-Style Rye30:20 | Tasting The Declaration: Blending Indiana, Canada, and Virginia34:20 | Bottle Storytelling: The Hidden History in the 115.74 Proof Statement38:00 | Scarcity & Allocation: Where to Find Legacy Batch 00342:00 | Final Thoughts: Shaking Up the American Blended Whiskey Category🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. 📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens 🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSUHashtags#BourbonLens #WhiskeyJypsi #AriSussman #EricChurch #TheDeclaration #MarylandRye #WhiskeyReview #BlendedWhiskey #MountVernonDistillery #HeirloomGrains #MGP #AmericanWhiskeyKeywordsWhiskey Jypsi Legacy Batch 003, Ari Sussman Whiskey Maker, The Declaration Whiskey Review, Eric Church Whiskey Brand, Maryland Style Rye, Mount Vernon Apple Brandy Barrels, Blended Whiskey Categories, Heirloom Grains in Spirits, 115.74 Proof Meaning, Bourbon Lens,
Transcribe →