Podcast
Off Topic Whiskey
Hosted by Randall Janc · EN
All things whiskey related. We will talk process, deep dives on distilleries and bottles. And the whiskey scene. And now so much more.
34episodes
Episodes
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193: Loch Lomond With Andy Westley
1w ago00:52:47Tap to summarizeBoy o boy are yall in for a treat. I got to sit down with Andy Westley, Director of Whiskey Sales for Foley Wine and Spirits (importer of Loch Lomond). And lets just say it was fantastic. This is a 2 part show so stay tuned for the second part. We chatted all things whiskey and business. Hope you enjoy.Patreon.com/offtopicwhiskeyLochlomond.comUnlike many distilleries, who take a particular view of the style of whisky they produce, we have a unique, remarkable distilling ability unlike any other in Scotch.01Both Swan Neck & Straight Neck StillsLoch Lomond Whiskies distill using 2 styles of malt still. The Straight Neck Pot Still and a more traditional Swan Neck Pot Still, more commonly used in malt whisky production.By using two types of still, different cut points, peated and unpeated malted barley, we are able to distill eight different single malt styles, providing an uniquely wide range of taste profiles for a single malt distillery.Our distillation techniques across all of our stills allow us to maintain the underlying fruity character developed during our 92 hour, extra long fermentation process; ensuring all single malts across the Loch Lomond ranges carry the underlying fruity distillery character.The Council of Whiskey Masters was established to define and uphold a new set of education standards among sommeliers and spirits professionals, offering credentials in the field of whiskey that are equivalent to the well-established designations in the world of wine.The certification program consists of 4 levels, with Levels I and II conducted remotely / online. Levels III and IV are delivered in-person.Prior to the founding of the Council, there had been no worldwide education and certification body or program dedicated to the wider beverage category of whiskey—the finest of all spirits.Learn more, and start with one of our Level I credentials: Certified Scotch Professional (CSP) and Certified Bourbon Professional (CBP).Upon passing Level I, candidates can move to the Level II credential, covering the whole world of whiskey, beyond Scotland and America: Certified Whiskey Specialist (CWS).Our Master-level exams are: Level III, Master of Scotch or Master of Bourbon, and finally Level IV, Master of Whiskey.The Council also maintains a vibrant Membership Program, offering benefits to all whiskey lovers.Learn about Whiskey: The Leading Education Programs for Scotch, Bourbon, and the other Global Whiskeys.Available for aspiring and established spirits professionals located anywhere in the world, through online testing.Designed, guided and endorsed by the most respected whisk(e)y and spirits authorities from 4 continents.Today, the most widely recommended and trusted certification program on whiskey, globally.Helping aspiring as well as seasoned whiskey specialists to reach the highest possible knowledge & competence levels.Certification candidates are located in more than 40 countries. The Council is 100% independent, with the sole focus to deliver the most relevant and accepted study program in the industry, based on a rigorous study curriculum that requires intensive study and dedication. Our Advisory Board consists of 30+ of the most respected individuals in all of whiskey, making the Council certifications a globally recognized set of spirits qualifications. Our remote-friendly learning options allow for effective whiskey education online.The world of whiskey is rich in the potential for knowledge and ability, and has long needed a legitimate training and career path that a formal study & exam program can best help establish. Interested individuals from around the globe should have access to a viable path that allows starting and building out a career in whiskey. Our tiered study & examination program aims to fill this gap.
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192: Blue Corn Gimmick or Game Changer
2w ago01:00:47Tap to summarizeSo much went on in this episode, I had to say a little prayer at the end. We did a blind from DOC and lets just say it turned the episode into a real thing. Hope you enjoy.Patreon.com/offtopicwhiskeyhttps://www.instagram.com/zsmithwhiskeyandmixology?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Badmotivatorbarrels.com/shop/?aff=3Blue corn has emerged as a major trend in craft distilling, celebrated for introducing complex, bold alternative flavor profiles to American whiskey.Unlike mass-produced yellow dent corn (Yellow No. 2), which is maximized for crop yield and ethanol efficiency, heirloom blue corn varieties have been selected for generations entirely for human consumption and superior taste.Flavor ProfileBlue corn shifts the sensory boundaries of traditional whiskey, typically exhibiting the following characteristics:Earthy and Savory: It is notably less sweet and significantly more rustic, introducing deep, minerals-and-soil qualities to the spirit.Nutty and Oily: Due to a rich concentration of natural oils in the grain, blue corn creates a highly viscous, velvet mouthfeel. It often tastes of roasted nuts, toasted sugar, popcorn, and cocoa.Dark Fruits: Many distillers and reviewers note distinct dark fruit or "purple" traits, including heavy undertones of blackberry, plum, and blueberry compote.Challenges in DistillingWhile it creates an exceptional spirit, blue corn is notoriously difficult to work with for two main reasons:Low Yield: The heirloom crop generates far less fermentable starch per acre than industrial corn, making it far more expensive to source.The "Masa" Effect: During the mashing process, the heavy proteins and starches in blue corn create a thick, sticky paste (similar to tamale or tortilla dough). This frequently clogs distillation equipment and pipes.Prominent Distilleries and BottlesSeveral innovative distilleries have built high-profile releases around this grain:Balcones Distillery: The Texas craft pioneer was among the first to popularize the grain with their iconic Balcones Baby Blue. It is crafted from 100% roasted blue flint corn, displaying a heavy, buttery profile.Still Austin: Known for its highly coveted, seasonal winter Bottled-in-Bond Blue Corn Bourbon, which balances a high-rye mash bill with deep blueberry and brown sugar notes.Bluegrass Distillers: Based in Kentucky, their Blue Corn Bottled-in-Bond features a 75% blue corn mash bill that yields an earthy, bakery-fresh croissant and spice flavor profile.Smokeye Hill & Jeptha Creed: Both distilleries have captured industry attention with high-proof, single-barrel, or specialty heirloom blue corn expressions that lean heavily into savory old-school profiles.Mashing and distilling blue corn requires significant deviation from standard yellow corn workflows due to the unique structural properties of the grain.The Mashing ProcessTraditional raw corn consists of tightly packed, small starch granules that require substantial heat energy to unravel. Blue corn, specifically heirloom varieties like Hopi or Mexican atole, possesses a dense protein matrix and higher natural oil content that drastically alters mashing dynamics.High-Temperature GelatinizationBefore enzymes can convert corn starches into fermentable sugars, the grain must be gelatinized.The Workflow: Milled blue corn is mixed with water and heated to roughly 190°F to 200°F (88°C to 93°C). It must be held at this near-boiling temperature for 30 to 60 minutes to completely fracture the starch structures.The "Masa" Problem: As blue corn hits its gelatinization threshold, it binds water intensely. It transforms almost instantly into a thick, purple concrete-like paste. If left unchecked, this paste will burn onto the bottom of the mash cooker or seize up mechanical stirring paddles.
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191: Z.Smith Whiskey & Mixology
3w ago01:34:12Tap to summarizeSo I'm gonna tell you right away the audio sounded fine while recording. But Zack's audio has some issues, I tried to clean it up the best i could. This was a fantastic chat, I love all the stuff Zack is doing and I hope you do as well. Cheershttps://www.instagram.com/zsmithwhiskeyandmixology?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==If you want to purchase Zack's book here is the linkhttps://a.co/d/06ixRVCrExplore the world of spirits and cocktails through engaging stories and unique recipes. Elevate your mixology skills with easy-to-follow techniques and discover the rich history behind your favorite spirits, making every sip a memorable experience.Tales of Spirits seeks to take you through the world of distilled beverages, including Whiskey, Gin, Rum, Vodka, Tequila, Brandy, and Moonshine, one cocktail and story at a time. This book encapsulates years of research and professional exploration, revealing how alcohol reflects cultural shifts and the evolution of industries. Each spirit carries its own narrative, filled with passion, love, and the complexities of human emotion. With over 160 cocktail recipes and numerous stories, any reader, regardless of skill level, can make high-quality cocktails while also gaining knowledge of the histories behind the drinks you're making. Each recipe is crafted with readily available components and basic bartending tools, making it easy for anyone to join in the fun of cocktail creation. More than just a recipe book, the book features engaging anecdotes and historical insights about the spirits themselves. These stories are not only entertaining but also serve as conversation starters, enriching your experience as you share drinks with friends and family. Whether you are a seasoned mixologist or just wanting to make a nice drink, Tales of Spirits invites you to embrace the art of cocktail making. Grab a glass, mix a drink, and immerse yourself in the world of spirits. Let this book inspire you to craft your own unique recipes and deepen your appreciation for the stories behind each sip.
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190: Lost Lantern United States of Bourbon
Jul 401:12:19Tap to summarizeHow do you celebrate 250 years of America. With a Bourbon with every state represented. Just wait there is so much more. I need you to just listen and get into it. AND I'M SORRY NEBRASKA I COULDN'T REMEMBER YOUR ABBREVIATION.Lostlanternwhiskey.comPatreon.com/offtopicwhiskey50 States. 50 Distilleries. One Bourbon.This first-of-its-kind release is a blend of straight bourbon whiskies from all 50 states. For this special blend, we brought together some of the finest distilleries in the country, all of which we have personally visited. Blended in Vermont and bottled at cask strength, this whiskey proves that great bourbon comes from all across the United States.Each state is represented by just one distillery, and all 50 distilleries are listed on the back label.Rich wood spice and vanilla on the nose, with hints of nutmeg and clove. Rich depth with a lot of complexity. On the palate, oak, spice, and fruit intermingle into a deep and balanced whole, with notes of black raspberry, dark chocolate, and leather.Batch: 1Proof: 122.9 proofQuantity Produced: 3,300 bottlesFormat: 750mlAge: 2 year age statement; components range from 2 to 10 years oldDetails: Non-chill filtered; no color addedDistilled By:Painted Stave Distilling - DelawareLiberty Pole Spirits - PennsylvaniaSourland Mountain Spirits - New JerseyASW Fiddler Distillery - GeorgiaLitchfield Distillery - ConnecticutTriple Eight Distillery - MassachusettsBaltimore Spirits Co. - MarylandHigh Wire Distilling Co. - South CarolinaCathedral Ledge Distillery - New HampshireReservoir Distillery - VirginiaKings County Distillery - New YorkBroad Branch Distillery - North CarolinaSouth County Distillery - Rhode IslandStonecutter Spirits - VermontNew Riff Distilling - KentuckyLeiper’s Fork Distillery - TennesseeTom’s Foolery Distillery - OhioDistillerie Acadian - LouisianaStarlight Distillery - IndianaRich Grain Distilling - MississippiWhiskey Acres Distilling Co. - IllinoisDread River Distilling Co. - AlabamaHardshore Distilling Co. - MaineJ. Rieger & Co. - MissouriRock Town Distillery - ArkansasNew Holland Distilling Co. - MichiganSt. Augustine Distillery. - FloridaBalcones Distilling - TexasCedar Ridge Distillery - IowaWollersheim Distillery - WisconsinCorbin Cash Distillery - CaliforniaFar North Spirits - MinnesotaOregon Spirit Distillers - OregonUnion Horse Distilling Co. - KansasSmooth Ambler Spirits - West VirginiaFrey Ranch Distillery - NevadaBrickway Distillery - NebraskaBoulder Spirits - ColoradoProof Artisan Distillers - North DakotaBlackfork Farms - South DakotaMontgomery Distillery - MontanaWoodinville Whiskey Co. - WashingtonDay’s Defile - IdahoBackwards Distilling Co. - WyomingHigh West Distillery - UtahHochatown Distilling - OklahomaSafe House Distilling - New MexicoSanTan Distilling - ArizonaDenali Spirits - AlaskaKo‘olau Distillery - Hawai‘iWho We AreWe’re whiskey nerds, and we’re building an independent bottler that talks to whiskey nerds. We love hunting down whiskies that people haven’t discovered yet and sharing the stories of the distilleries we’re most excited about. Ultimately, we just want to share what makes the world of American whiskey so exciting.Our MissionShining a light on the independent spirit is our tagline. It’s also our mission. That means we spend the time to truly explore and understand the landscape of American whiskey. We find unique and exciting whiskies from every corner of the United States. And we tell the stories of these distilleries and why whiskey lovers should know about what they’re doing. Transparency is very important to us. We don’t distill whiskey. We never will. Sourcing whiskey is the whole point! And we want you to know exactly where it came from, and why we chose to work with that place, and why their whiskey is unique.
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Jul 201:38:33Tap to summarizeThere's a little about a small malt house turned distillery winning awards. Doug gets fired up, and we may or may not have mentioned glizzys....
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189: What You See Isn't Always What You Get
Jun 2701:05:10Tap to summarizeLet just say this episode Started off Off the rails. Sometimes i just get in there and press record. Hope you enjoy???Patreon.com/offtopicwhiskeyBadmotivatorbarrel.com/shop/?aff=3https://www.instagram.com/zsmithwhiskeyandmixology?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==The phrase "what you see isn’t always what you get" serves as a core law of human experience, reminding us that surface appearances rarely reflect the complete truth. While the tech acronym WYSIWYG ("What You See Is What You Get") promises total alignment between interface and output, real life functions as its exact opposite.A deep dive into this concept reveals how it manifests across psychology, biology, modern technology, and culture.🧠 The Cognitive Illusion: How the Brain Fills the GapsWe like to think our eyes act as objective cameras recording reality, but neuroscience proves otherwise.The Perception Gap: The brain is a predictive engine. Instead of processing every piece of visual data from scratch, it relies on memories, assumptions, and cognitive shortcuts to "fill in" the blanks.Confirmation Bias: We actively wear what author Liberty Forrest calls "colored glasses". If we believe someone is untrustworthy, our brain filters their actions to validate that exact belief, meaning what we "see" is heavily warped by what we already expect.Pareidolia: This survival-driven hardwiring causes humans to see highly specific patterns, like human faces, in random shapes like burnt toast or the craters of the moon. What you see is a face; what you actually get is a rock or a piece of carbonized bread.📱 The Digital Distortion: Curation vs. RealityIn the digital age, this phrase has evolved from a casual warning into a structural reality of daily life.Social Media Filtering: Platforms like Instagram are built entirely on creating a massive gap between visual appearance and actual lived experience. Highly curated feeds, physical filters, and lifestyle staging mean that what you see is a flawless highlight reel, while what you get is a messy, complex human reality.Collective Illusions: Harvard research highlights a social phenomenon where a small, vocal minority dominates the digital conversation. Because our brains equate repetition with consensus, entire groups conform to ideas they privately disagree with. What looks like a unanimous public stance is often a mirage.The "Skim" Economy: Constant scrolling has trained us to consume the surface of information rather than its depth. A headline or a 15-second video clip gives the illusion of understanding, but what you actually get is shallow context that leaves out systemic nuance.🎸 Cultural Echoes: Authenticity in ArtThe phrase is so universally understood that it frequently serves as a shorthand for hidden depth or underlying conflict in art.Country Music: Country star Luke Combs famously leaned into this exact phrase for his record-breaking deluxe album, What You See Ain't Always What You Get. He used the theme to contrast his rough-around-the-edges, everyday appearance with a deeply nuanced, vulnerable, and emotionally complex approach to songwriting and performance.Idiomatic Relatives: The phrase is the modern spiritual successor to classic idioms like "Don't judge a book by its cover" or "All that glitters is not gold." It acknowledges that whether you are opening a bag of groceries, starting a new relationship, or entering a business partnership, first impressions are inherently incomplete.To look past first impressions and bridge the gap between what you see and what you get, psychologists rely on frameworks that decode how we perceive others. [1]
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188: Richard with Game & Grains
Jun 2001:24:24Tap to summarizeI got the honor to sit down and chat with Richard, a up and coming whiskeytube channel. And lets just say it flowed like smooth jazz. We had a great conversation, hope you enjoy.www.youtube.com/@GameandGrains25instagram.com/game_and_grainsPatreon.com/offtopicwhiskeyWelcome to Game and Grains—where whiskey meets gaming! Join us for fun streams featuring whiskey tastings, bourbon reviews, and gaming adventures. Whether you're a connoisseur or a casual gamer, there's something for everyone. Grab your glass and controller, it's time to level up!The draw to combining whiskey and gaming lies in the creation of a highly controlled, immersive ritual designed for ultimate stress decompression, emotional escapism, and low-pressure socialization. For many individuals—particularly men—this combination merges a sensory-rich luxury drink with a rewarding digital environment. Together, they form a powerful "third space" outside of work and family life where a person can completely disconnect.However, this specific pairing activates unique psychological loops that can serve as either a healthy reward or a hidden coping mechanism for mental health struggles.Why the Pairing Works: The Psychological AppealThe intersection of whiskey and gaming is not accidental; the two activities complement each other to satisfy several emotional and cognitive needs:The Ritual of Slowing Down: Whiskey is a spirit meant to be sipped slowly, forcing a slower physical pace. Pairing it with a casual or narrative-driven game creates a dedicated ritual that signals to the brain that the productivity demands of the day are officially over.The "Dual-Escape" Loop: Gaming provides a high level of cognitive absorption, forcing the brain to focus on a virtual task and leaving no room for real-world worries. Whiskey physically slows down the central nervous system, creating a combined mental and physical barrier against chronic stress.Low-Stakes Socialization: Gaming with online friends while having a casual drink provides social connection without the emotional pressure of formal face-to-face conversations. It allows for "shoulder-to-shoulder" bonding, where players connect over a shared digital objective rather than direct vulnerability.The Comfort of Control: In a chaotic world, games offer clear rules, clear objectives, and immediate rewards (leveling up, winning matches). Whiskey enhances this comfort by creating a cozy, predictable sensory experience (the warmth, the flavor profile).The Hidden Risk: When Decompression Becomes DependencyWhile using gaming and a glass of whiskey to unwind is common, the combination can easily transform into an unhealthy coping mechanism if used to mask underlying anxiety, depression, or burnout:The Dopamine Overload: Both gaming (through quick reward loops) and alcohol (through chemical spikes) release dopamine in the brain. Over time, relying on both simultaneously can desensitize your brain's natural reward system, making everyday life feel flat or uninteresting without them.Avoidance Instead of Processing: If a hard day automatically triggers a gaming session and multiple pours of whiskey, it prevents the emotional processing required to actually resolve life stress. The underlying problems remain untouched, waiting as soon as the game turns off and the alcohol wears off.Disrupted Rest: While both activities might help you drift off to sleep out of sheer exhaustion, the combination of late-night blue light from screens and alcohol intake destroys REM and deep sleep architectures, leaving you more emotionally fragile and anxious the next morning.
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187: Men's Mental Health Awareness Month
Jun 1301:17:36Tap to summarizeWe are back again this year im solo. And ill be the first to say i am not a professional therapist or anything of the sort. So take what I say as my thoughts on the mental health topic. EnjoyPatreon.com/offtopicwhiskeyBadmotivatorbarrels.com/shop/?aff=3https://www.instagram.com/zsmithwhiskeyandmixology?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Men’s mental health is a critical but often overlooked aspect of overall well-being, marked by unique symptom presentations and significant cultural barriers to seeking care. While mental health conditions affect everyone, men are statistically less likely to seek professional treatment. According to data from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), only about 41.6% of men with a mental illness receive treatment, compared to 56.9% of women. This disparity contributes to a silent crisis, notably reflected in suicide rates, where men account for nearly 80% of all suicide deaths in the United States.Hidden Signs and SymptomsAccording to clinical studies and the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), men often manifest psychological distress differently than women. Instead of standard symptoms like visible sadness or crying, men are more likely to exhibit:Behavioral changes: Increased irritability, sudden anger, hostility, and aggressive outbursts.Escapist habits: Throwing themselves compulsively into work or sports to avoid processing emotions.Risk-taking: Engaging in reckless driving, safe-sex neglect, or gambling.Substance misuse: Using alcohol or drugs as a primary tool to self-medicate.Physical ailments: Experiencing chronic headaches, digestive issues, and unexplained body pain.Barriers to Seeking CareSocietal conditioning and cultural expectations create significant hurdles for men actively managing their mental health:Traditional masculinity: Generational pressures to "man up," remain self-reliant, and view vulnerability as a weakness.Fear of burdening others: A reported 36% of men avoid discussing their mental health because they do not want to be a burden.Clinical misdiagnosis: Because symptoms often mask as anger or irritation rather than low mood, doctors can easily miss early signs of depression.Actionable Strategies and ResourcesImproving men's mental health requires structural support and intentional lifestyle choices:Build social connections: Consistently share struggles with trusted friends or partners to combat isolation.Utilize dedicated tools: Explore specialized, male-focused digital resources like the self-inspection tools on Man Therapy or educational guides via HeadsUpGuys.Engage in therapy: Use evidence-based care like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to learn practical coping mechanisms.Incorporate physical wellness: Prioritize regular exercise, structured sleep, and mindfulness to physically reduce baseline stress hormones.Access immediate crisis care: If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential 24/7 support
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186: Troy & Laura Baker (formerly Baker Drinks)
Jun 600:59:35Tap to summarizeI got the chance to sit down with Troy and Laura and discuss life. You know the whiskeytube world is very fickle and it gets hard to keep up with new releases and staying on top of the algo. I can tell you Troy and Laura are some of the most real people you can be around, hope you enjoy our chat. Here is a link to there free Patreon https://patreon.com/Bakerdrinks?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan&utm_content=join_linkBadmotivatorbarrels.com/shop/?aff=3https://www.instagram.com/zsmithwhiskeyandmixology?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Patreon.com/offtoipcwhiskeyTo dive deeper into the world of WhiskeyTube (the YouTube creator community), what "comes next" is exploring the highly distinct sub-genres and channels that dominate the space. The community has evolved into a few clear categories depending on the vibe, knowledge depth, and entertainment style you prefer:🎮 Pure Entertainment & "Shenanigans"If you want comedy, crazy experiments, and high-energy content, start here:Whiskey Tribe: Led by hosts Rex and Briana, this massive channel focuses on community culture, bizarre experiments (like distilling unusual foods), and accessible humor.Brewzle: Famous for high-production videos, blind tasting challenges, and "whiskey hunting" travel vlogs searching for rare bottles.Bourbon Junkies: A chaotic, highly entertaining duo focusing on bourbon reviews, comedy skits, and single-barrel picks. 🧠 No-Nonsense Education & Deep-Dive ReviewsIf you want straight facts, professional tasting notes, and industry insider knowledge without the gimmicks: The Mash and Drum: Highly respected for a calm, single-host format that skips the filler and delivers highly accurate tasting palettes. Fred Minick: A world-renowned whiskey author, historian, and spirits judge. His videos are packed with unmatched industry data and formal critiques. SLB Drinks: A fantastic father-and-son dynamic that blends excellent, unpretentious advice for both beginner and experienced bourbon drinkers. 🏴 Scotch & International MaltsIf your preferences lean heavily toward Scotch, Irish, and world whiskies rather than American bourbon: Ralfy: The undisputed grandfather of WhiskeyTube. Reviewing from his cabin in Scotland, he is completely independent, brutally honest, and deeply passionate about traditional whisky. GWhisky: A fast-rising channel known for concise, beautifully edited videos, clever wit, and highly practical buying guides for Scotch collectors. Aqvavitae: Famous for creating the "V-Pub" live streams, which offer a cozy, communal pub atmosphere packed with deep philosophical whisky chat. 📊 Choose Your PathIf you prioritize humor and community culture, subscribe to Whiskey Tribe or Bourbon Junkies.If you prioritize analytical data and finding good value bottles, subscribe to The Mash and Drum or SLB Drinks.
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185: Is The Whiskey Market Healing
May 3001:03:25Tap to summarizeGood news on the whiskey front for today. Couple of topics and friendly banter is what were all about. EnjoyBadmotivatorbarrels.com/shop/?aff=3https://www.instagram.com/zsmithwhiskeyandmixology?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Patreon.com/offtopicwhiskeyDonald Trump has said he will remove all tariffs and restrictions on whisky imports in honour of King Charles and Queen Camilla's state visit to the US.The US president said he would lift restrictions on Scotland's ability to work with the state of Kentucky on whisky and bourbon.The UK government confirmed this applies to all whisky tariffs, including on Irish whiskey.Industry representatives said distillers would be able to "breathe a little easier during a period of significant pressure on the sector".President Trump told reporters why he has decided to lift tariffs on whiskyTrump said the Royal visit "got me to do something that nobody else was able to do, without hardly even asking".The King and Queen spent four days in the US on a state visit hosted by Trump where they visited Washington DC, New York and Virginia before they left on Thursday.In response to the news, a spokesperson for Buckingham Palace said the King sent his "sincere gratitude" to Trump and he "will be raising a dram to the President's thoughtfulness".Scotland's First Minister John Swinney called it "tremendous news for Scotland" and said he was grateful to the King for the key role he played.Swinney added: "Millions of pounds were being lost every month from the Scottish economy."'Wonderful honour'In a post on his Truth Social account, Trump said the move was "in honour of the King and Queen of the United Kingdom, who have just left the White House, soon headed back to their wonderful country".He said the tariffs and restrictions related to "Scotland's ability to work with the Commonwealth of Kentucky on Whiskey and Bourbon, two very important industries within Scotland and Kentucky", and noted how the two areas were linked through the use of wooden barrels.The main customer for Kentucky's used bourbon barrels is the Scotch industry, which has been importing around £200m-worth each year.The president added: "The King and Queen got me to do something that nobody else was able to do, without hardly even asking!"A wonderful honour to have them both in the USA."At a press conference later on Thursday, Trump added: "I just took all the restrictions off, so Scotland and Kentucky can start dealing again."And I did it in honour of the King and Queen who just left."'Royal sparkle'The Scottish and UK governments had both lobbied for the current 10% tariff rate to be reduced or removed on the basis it would benefit both Scottish and US distillers.Tariffs for exports to the US, introduced under the Trump administration and adding 10% to importers' costs, hit sales in Scotland's whisky industry's biggest export market.American tariffs on single malts, which were suspended four years ago, were on course to return this spring with a further 25% charge, unless a deal could be done with the Trump administration.Single malts, which sell at premium prices, are a particularly important part of exports to the US.Yes, whisky enthusiasts are finally starting to see more allocated bottles sitting directly on retail shelves. Driven by increased production capacity and a cooling of the post-pandemic "bourbon craze," popular labels are becoming much easier to find without relying on raffles, lotteries, or secondary markets.While true "unicorn" status bottles (like Pappy Van Winkle or George T. Stagg) remain incredibly rare, the wider market is shifting.
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