Bourbon Lens

The Bourbon Lens

Boost

Boost

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 ne...

323: The Origin Story of Bourbon Lore with Mason Walker & Clay Risen

In this episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, host Jake sits down with Mason Walker and Clay Risen from Bourbon Lore®, a unique community of bourbon enthusiasts, collectors, and connoisseurs built around a shared love for the best American whiskey has to offer. Together, they discuss the history of bourbon, delving into its origins, the iconic figures behind its rise, and the enduring legacy that has made it one of America’s most celebrated spirits. Tune in and discover the origin story of Bourbo

Mar 23, • 39:39

322: Exploring Whiskey Thief Distilling Co.'s New Location with Walter Zausch

In this episode of the Bourbon Lens podcast, hosts Jake and Scott take a trip to the new location of Whiskey Thief Distilling Co. in the heart of NuLu, Louisville. We sit down with Walter Zausch to learn about the distillery’s exciting new space and what visitors can expect when they visit either of their locations. From the one-of-a-kind experience of thieving unique whiskies directly from the barrel to the vibrant atmosphere of NuLu, this episode dives into the distinct experience Whiskey Thie

Mar 16, • 39:54

321: Bottled in Bond with Heaven Hill’s Bernie Lubbers & Adam Edwards

In this episode of Bourbon Lens, we take a trip to the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience on Whisky Row, located in the heart of Louisville, Kentucky. We sit down with two of Heaven Hill’s finest, Bernie Lubbers and Adam Edwards, to dive deep into the world of Bottled in Bond. As one of the most significant designations in the bourbon industry, Bottled in Bond holds a special place at Heaven Hill. Bernie and Adam provide invaluable insight into its history, its meaning to both bourbon enthusiasts

Mar 9, • 39:07

320: Bulleit Unveils New Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon: Celebrating Bottled in Bond Day

In this special episode of the Bourbon Lens podcast, Jake and Scott dive into an exciting new release from Bulleit Whiskey – their first-ever Bottled-in-Bond bourbon expression. In honor of Bottled in Bond Day (March 3), we're joined by Courtney King.  Courtney is the Distillery Manager at Bulleit Distillery and she joins us to share insights on the distilling process, the importance of the Bottled-in-Bond designation, and what makes this new expression stand out. Discover the journey behind Bul

Mar 3, • 41:55

319: Exploring Larrikin Bourbon Co. with Co-Founder Greg Keeley

In this exciting new episode of Bourbon Lens, hosts Jake and Scott sit down with Greg Keeley, the co-founder of Larrikin Bourbon Co., to dive deep into the building (and rebranding) of a bourbon company. Together, they discuss the origins of Larrikin Bourbon Co., the brand’s ethos, and what makes their whiskey stand out in a crowded market. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years.

Feb 24, • 42:10

318: The Best Bourbon Distilleries from Around the United States

In this episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, hosts Jake and Scott take a closer look at some of their favorite bourbon distilleries from across the United States. Join us as we explore Wyoming Whiskey, Boulder Spirits, Holladay Distillery, and more, and dive into what makes each of these distilleries unique.  Did we miss any of your favorite "non-Kentucky Bourbon" distilleries?  Drop us a line and tell us which distillery we need to discover next. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app

Feb 17, • 36:07

317: High Bank Small Batch Bourbon: A New Chapter for Ohio Distillery

In this episode of Bourbon Lens podcast, Jake and Scott are joined by Adam Hines, co-founder of High Bank Distillery Co., to discuss the release of their highly anticipated High Bank Small Batch Bourbon. This release marks a new chapter in the distillery's journey, bringing their very own well-aged and flavorful bourbon to market. Adam talks about the six years of waiting and crafting that went into creating this unique bourbon, highlighting its wheated mash bill. According to the distillery, Hi

Feb 10, • 43:45

316: Chicken Cock Whiskey's New Stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail

In this episode of the Bourbon Lens podcast, Jake and Scott are joined by Will Woodington, the National Brand Ambassador for Chicken Cock Whiskey. Together, they dive deep into the rich history of Chicken Cock Whiskey, discuss its distinctive branding, and explore its exciting new chapter as it joins the Kentucky Bourbon Trail with their visitor experience, Circa 1856 in Bardstown. Tune in to learn more about this iconic whiskey brand, its legacy, and what makes Chicken Cock Whiskey appealing fo

Feb 3, • 37:42

315: On the Hunt for Buffalo Trace Antique Collection

In this episode of the Bourbon Lens podcast, hosts Jake and Scott dive deep into the highly anticipated Buffalo Trace Antique Collection 2024. Join them as they explore the flavors and complexities of these limited release whiskies, giving their thoughts and insights on each whiskey in the collection. A special thanks to the team at Sazerac for providing the opportunity to taste these rare whiskeys. Without their support, this episode wouldn't have been possible. Don't miss out—listen now for an

Jan 27, • 34:10

314: Whiskey Predictions for 2025 and the Rise of American Single Malt

In this episode of the Bourbon Lens podcast, hosts Jake and Scott sit down to make predictions for the whiskey world in 2025. As the bourbon landscape continues to evolve, we dive into what we believe is coming down the pipe for the industry. From pricing trends to the rise of American Single Malt, and the ongoing buzz around limited release and allocated bourbons, there's a lot to unpack and we'd love to hear from you too.  What are some of your bold predictions for whiskey in 2025? Stream this

Jan 19, • 33:40

313: Highlights of 2024 for the Bourbon Lens Podcast

As we close the door on 2024 and begin 2025, Jake and Scott sit down to reflect on some of the biggest highlights from the year of Bourbon Lens. From exciting releases to emerging trends, the Bourbon Lens has seen a year full of remarkable moments, and we're breaking down the ones that stood out the most. Tune in to hear what Jake and Scott have to say about the highlights of 2024 Bourbon Lens! Listen to the Episode Now! Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a r

Jan 13, • 35:26

312: Discussing Jeptha Creed's Founding, its Heirloom Grains, and the Future

We’re excited to bring you a new episode of the Bourbon Lens podcast featuring Joyce Nethery, founder and Master Distiller of Jeptha Creed Distillery. In this episode, Joyce takes us behind the scenes of their innovative distillery, sharing the story of how Jeptha Creed was founded, their commitment to using heirloom grains, and what the future holds for the brand. Jeptha Creed has always stood out for its dedication to sustainability and craftsmanship. Joyce discusses their dedication to levera

Jan 6, • 1:01:03

311: Angel’s Envy and Its Future with Master Distiller Owen Martin

In this new episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, we’re honored to be joined by Owen Martin, the Master Distiller at Angel’s Envy. Known for crafting some of the most unique and beloved finished whiskey expressions in the bourbon world, Angel’s Envy has set itself apart with its finishing techniques and commitment to quality. Owen shares his journey in the spirits industry, what it takes to craft a perfect bottle of Angel’s Envy, and the artistry he looks to leverage as Angel’s Envy enters into i

Dec 30, 2024 • 39:13

310: Exploring Compass Box Whisky's New Core Collection

In this new episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, we welcome Racheal Vaughan Jones, Marketing Director at Compass Box Whisky. Racheal shares her journey from working with global drinks brands like Ballantine’s Scotch Whisky to helping shape the direction of Compass Box, one of the most innovative independent Scotch whisky makers in the world. As the driving force behind Compass Box’s recent initiatives, including the launch of their new Core Collection and the Long Live Interesting campaign, Rach

Dec 23, 2024 • 43:15

309: Gabriel Macht Talks Bear Fight Whiskey, Acting, and His Love for Whiskey

In this exciting new episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, we’re joined by actor Gabriel Macht! Known for his iconic role as Harvey Specter on the hit TV show Suits, Gabriel opens up about his latest venture into the world of whiskey as an investor and partner in Bear Fight Whiskey.  During this conversation, Gabriel dives deep into his love for fine spirits, the entrepreneurial side of the whiskey industry, and how he found a perfect match with Bear Fight Whiskey. He also reflects on his career

Dec 16, 2024 • 35:00

308: True Story Whiskey with Wes Henderson: A New Chapter in the Henderson Family Legacy

In this episode of the Bourbon Lens podcast, we’re joined by Wes Henderson, the co-founder of Angel’s Envy, as he talks about his exciting new brand, True Story. Wes takes us on a journey through the creation of this new venture, offering insights into the inspiration behind the brand and what sets True Story apart in the world of whiskey. We also dive into two new whiskies from the True Story lineup:   Wes shares how True Story marks a new chapter in the Henderson family’s distilling history, r

Dec 9, 2024 • 39:29

307: Blanton’s Bourbon Super Fan Dominic Guglielmi and His New Book

In the newest episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, we sit down with Dominic Guglielmi, a Blanton’s Bourbon super fan and author of the new book Warehouse H: The Story of Blanton’s Bourbon, America's Most Influential Whiskey. We dive deep into the history of Blanton’s, its role in shaping the modern bourbon landscape, and the stories from Warehouse H at Buffalo Trace Distillery. Whether you're a die-hard bourbon aficionado or a casual fan, this episode is a must-listen! Stream this episode on you

Dec 2, 2024 • 58:45

306: Kaveh Zamanian of Rabbit Hole Distillery Talks Innovation and New Role at Pernod Ricard

In this episode of the Bourbon Lens podcast, Jake sits down with Kaveh Zamanian, the founder and former CEO of Rabbit Hole Distillery, to discuss his journey in the whiskey world, the evolution of Rabbit Hole, and his new role within the spirits industry. Kaveh and Jake also talk about the new Founder’s Collection – 8-Year-Old Boxergrail Rye Whiskey from Rabbit Hole. We also dive deep into Kaveh’s exciting new chapter at Pernod Ricard as he transitions into his role as Chief Operating Officer an

Nov 25, 2024 • 39:04

305: Benromach's Unique Speyside Scotch Whisky with Keith Cruickshank

In this episode of the Bourbon Lens podcast, we dive deep into the world of Benromach, one of Scotland's most celebrated distilleries. We’re joined by Keith Cruickshank, Distillery Manager at Benromach, who walks us through the rich history and what make their subtly smoky Speyside whiskies stand out. We’re honored to taste through their impressive portfolio, including their rare and limited-release 50-Year-Old Scotch, a truly exceptional and costly expression that showcases the artistry and ded

Nov 18, 2024 • 41:04

304: Fawn Weaver on Her New Book, Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, and Honoring Nathan Green

In this episode of Bourbon Lens, hosts Jake and Scott sit down with Fawn Weaver, the trailblazing founder of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey. Fawn takes us on a journey through her remarkable story—how she discovered the legacy of Nathan “Nearest” Green, the first African-American master distiller, and how she turned that discovery into the globally recognized whiskey brand, Uncle Nearest. Fawn also shares insights into her newly released book, Love & Whiskey: The Remarkable True Story of Jack Dan

Nov 11, 2024 • 49:38

303: A Deep Dive with Ross Cornelissen, Master Distiller of 1792 Bourbon

This week, we’re talking about Barton 1792 Distillery and 1792 Bourbon. Master Distiller Ross Cornelissen joins Bourbon Lens to talk about the workhouse bourbon distillery. Barton 1792 is a historic distillery in the Bourbon Capital of the World and owned by Sazerac Company. We discuss three limited releases from Barton 1792, including Sweet Wheat, Aged Twelve Years, and Thomas S. Moore Port Cask Finished Bourbon. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review w

Nov 4, 2024 • 1:00:43

302: Sitting Down with Dierks Bentley and His New ROW 94 Whiskey

We’re joined by multi-Platinum country music artist, Dierks Bentley, in this special episode of Bourbon Lens.  Dierks recently wrapped up his Gravel & Gold Tour and is firmly planted back in Nashville preparing for his next album. We had the privilege to sit down with Dierks to talk about his newest project, Row 94 Whiskey.  Row 94 is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey distilled at the historic Green River Distilling Company.  Dierks aims for Row 94 to be the bourbon you reach for when you’re e

Oct 28, 2024 • 28:07

301: Restoration and History with Cook’s Mill Whiskey Founder Jason Queen

On a recent trip to Myrtle Beach we crossed paths with Jason Queen as he was working to promote his bourbon in South Carolina.  Jason shared a bit of history with us and a whiskey too.  That chance meeting and conversation inspired this latest episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast.  Jason, a serial entrepreneur and conservationist purchased Cook’s Mill, an old grist mill in order to restore this once thriving mill. That goal set him on a path to creating a whiskey that is focused paying homage to

Oct 20, 2024 • 42:56

300: Celebrating a New Milestone with Birthday Bourbon at Old Forester

We are celebrating a BIG milestone this week as we release the 300th Episode of Bourbon Lens.  Old Forester and Brown-Forman were gracious enough to invite Jake and Scott to Whiskey Row to celebrate.  Bourbon Lens is joined by Melissa Rift and Caleb Trigo from Old Forester to discuss the historic brand, its legacy and future, and to toast our milestone with the 2024 Edition of Birthday Bourbon.  We couldn’t think of a better choice for celebrating this milestone episode and thank the team at Bro

Oct 13, 2024 • 47:47

299: Building the Best 5 Bottle American Whiskey Bar

It’s the question that every whiskey enthusiast has been asked: What’s the one bottle of whiskey you keep on your bar?  Since one bottle clearly wouldn’t make a great podcast, we decided to up the ante a bit and decided to build the Ultimate 5 Bottle American Whiskey Bar.  Jake and Scott run through how they would build their whiskey bar if only afforded 5 slots. We’ve given ourselves criteria in hopes of finding a bottle for every niche and occasion.   We run through our choices for 1) best eve

Oct 6, 2024 • 34:40

298: The Most Exciting New Whiskey Releases for Fall 2024

It’s been a wild season of new whiskey and bourbon releases and we’re catching up on some of the ones you may have missed. The press releases have been coming in fast and furious of late and Bourbon Lens is doing our best to keep you abreast of all the news.  We recap some of the most exciting releases from the heritage Kentucky distilleries, the best distilleries both inside and outside of Kentucky, and even some celebrity brands that have the whiskey world talking. As always, be sure you’re fo

Sep 29, 2024 • 31:17

297: Kentucky Bourbon Festival 2024 Recap and Planning for Next Year

Scott and Jake sit down to debrief after a long weekend at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival.  We discuss some of our favorite pours and experiences from yet another memorable Festival. We must give a shoutout to our AirBnB housemates who joined us to celebrate and to all our listeners who introduced themselves over the weekend. We wrap up this recap episode with some tips to consider as you plan your trip to the 2025 Kentucky Bourbon Festival on September 5 - 7, 2025. Thank you to the Kentucky Bour

Sep 22, 2024 • 29:28

296: Our Trip to New Riff Distilling with Jay Erisman

Scott and Jake travel to Newport Kentucky to visit New Riff Distilling and sit down with co-founder Jay Erisman.  We kick back inside the Aquifer Bar to discuss New Riff’s history, their whiskey portfolio, and what’s ahead now that the distillery recently celebrated its 10th anniversary.   In this episode, we taste New Riff Bottled in Bond Bourbon, Silver Grove Bourbon, Malted Rye, and their 8 Year Bourbon.  Stay tuned to Bourbon Lens for more coverage of New Riff coming soon, including their se

Sep 16, 2024 • 1:13:43

295: Four Roses New Limited Edition Small Batch Bourbon for 2024

We continue our coverage for Bourbon Heritage Month as we explore Four Roses Bourbon, including their new Limited Edition Small Batch release for 2024.  We are joined by Brent Elliott, Master Distiller for Four Roses Bourbon Distillery.  We discuss Brent’s process for crafting this limited edition bourbon, the 10 different recipes of Four Roses Bourbon, the distillery’s commitment to quality and tradition, and the recent announcement of an expansion of the Four Roses Bourbon recipe lineup.  Wha

Sep 8, 2024 • 47:43

294: James B. Beam Distilling Co. is Celebrating a Big Milestone

We’re kicking off National Bourbon Heritage Month with one of the legendary distilleries of Kentucky Bourbon.  We’ve traveled to James B. Beam Distilling Co. to chat about the Homeplace, located in Clermont, Kentucky and their 90th year at that location.  Alex Bowie, Director of Homeplace Experience at James B. Beam Distilling Co. sits down with Jake and Scott inside the Historic Beam House. We discuss how Beam has evolved its Homeplace over the last 90 years, the importance of adapting to the e

Sep 2, 2024 • 43:55

293: Heaven's Door Whiskey and The Last Refuge

We travel to The Last Refuge in Louisville’s NuLu neighborhood to visit the future brand home of Heaven’s Door Whiskey.  We are joined by Adam Edwards, National Brand Ambassador, to discuss the inspiration behind the brand, Bob Dylan’s art and music, and their portfolio of whiskeys.  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for your support over the last 5 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our growing Patreon

Aug 25, 2024 • 52:01

292: The Journey and Alchemy of the Whiskey JYPSI Brand

Bourbon Lens is joined by Raj Alva, Co-Founder of Outsiders Spirits, and Ari Sussman, renowed whiskey-maker, to discuss their project Whiskey JYPSI.  We discuss the origin story of the brand, including co-founder Eric Church, how his music inspires the direction of the brand, and what’s in store for their future. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for your support over the last 5 years. We must give the biggest sh

Aug 19, 2024 • 1:05:35

291: Exploring Tamdhu Whiskies from Ian MacLeod Distillers

Jake takes a deep dive into Scotland in this week’s episode featuring Tamdhu Single Malt Whisky.  He’s joined by Gordon Dallas, Brand Development & Advocacy Director for Tamdhu, for an informative and enlightening comparative tasting of a portion of the Tamdhu portfolio of sherry cask whiskies. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for your support over the last 5 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our growi

Aug 12, 2024 • 45:26

290: Exploring the Unique Releases of the World Whiskey Society

Jake is joined by Chris Barton, Master Blender for World Whiskey Society, to talk about the unique whiskey offerings that comprise the collection of WWS releases. Jake tastes the single barrel release of Doc Holliday 7 Year and the latest Japanese Single Malt release crafted in collaboration with Chip Tate.  The WWS also has a new series that pays tribute to Wyatt Earp, their latest releases of American Single Malt Whiskeys. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop u

Aug 5, 2024 • 24:20

289: Blue Note Bourbon is the New Fuel of the Pros of Pickleball

The Bourbon Lens is joined by Logan Welk, President and Chief Operating Officer of B.R. Distilling Company.  B.R. Distilling is known for their portfolio of Blue Note Bourbon and Rye Whiskeys. Logan has moved up the ranks at Blue Note and is well-versed in the ins-and-outs of the business of bourbon and brand-building. We also discuss whether Blue Note Bourbon and Rye will help improve your pickleball game, on the heels of their recent announcement of becoming the official bourbon of Major Leagu

Jul 28, 2024 • 38:06

288: Tasting Two of Wild Turkey's New Limited Release Whiskeys

Jake and Scott sit down with two new, rare releases from Wild Turkey Distillery. The guys talk about their recent trip to Wild Turkey and taste Russell’s Reserve 15 Year Old Kentucky Bourbon and Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Triumph Rye.  A big thank you to the PR team for Wild Turkey and Russell's Reserve who helped maked this episode possible by providing generous samples of these two limited releases. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re th

Jul 22, 2024 • 38:51

287: James B. Beam is Flexing its Muscles in the Whiskey World

Jake and Scott share a few pours of whiskey in this week’s “Hosts-Only” podcast episode of Bourbon Lens.  We discuss all things Beam and the powerhouse that is The James B. Beam Distilling Co.  We kick off the discussion with Jim Beam Black, Beam’s latest rebranding of their 7 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon.  Then we kick it up a notch in proof and flavor with the Springfield Batch of Booker’s Bourbon before wrapping up the discussion with Little Book Chapter 08: Path Not Taken.  What is your fa

Jul 14, 2024 • 31:04

286: Whiskey Del Bac – Arizona Whiskey Born in the Sonoran Desert

Mark Vierthaler, Head Distiller for Whiskey Del Bac, joins Bourbon Lens to talk Single Malt.  Whiskey Del Bac is known for its mesquite style of American Single Malt, but they have so much to offer for any fan of American Whiskey who is looking to explore what the Southwest has to offer. Founded in 2011, Whiskey Del Bac has really hit a stride with their releases including Dorado, Classic, Frontera, and their Distiller’s Cut American Single Malts.  We discuss each during this week’s episode and

Jul 7, 2024 • 58:34

285: Inside the Exclusive Speakeasy at Greg Norman Australian Grille

Bourbon Lens travels to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina to visit the Greg Norman Australian Grille.  Greg Norman Australian Grille is the premier bourbon spot in Myrtle Beach and we had the privilege to host an exclusive bourbon tasting and dinner pairing for some of their VIPs. We take you inside the "One Flight Up" Speakeasy at Greg Norman Australian Grille to learn more about the restaurant's food and beverage programs and their extensive bourbon offerings. Add the Greg Norman Australian Grille

Jul 1, 2024 • 30:11

284: Exploring the Flavor of the Atlantic with Goslings Rum

In this week’s podcast, Jake sits down with Alex Holmes, Director of Brand Development at Goslings, to talk about their unique Bermudan Rum and why it is a great alternative to bourbon. Listen as we unpack the history of this unique and ever-evolving brand. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for your support over the last 5 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our growing Patreon Community of supporters! As

Jun 24, 2024 • 52:16

283: The Master Distiller of the Northwest's Largest & Oldest Distillery

We are joined by Caitlin Bartlemay, Master Distiller for Hood River Distillers and their portfolio of brands, including Clear Creek, McCarthy’s, and Trail’s End.  Caitlin was recently appointed to the role of Master Distiller after many years with the company, a testament to her passion for the brands and distilling.  We discuss their portfolio, including two Single Malts from McCarthy’s, the FIRST American Single Malt Whiskey, and Trail’s End Bourbons. Stream this episode on your favorite podca

Jun 16, 2024 • 1:09:07

282: How to Build a Whiskey Empire with Truist Financial

Jake sits down with Joseph Goode and Cody Matthews of Truist Financial to discuss the ways you can go about building your own liquid empire. There are many strategies that Truist deploys when helping a customer realize their dream of opening a distillery, creating a whiskey company, and procuring barrels. Sit back, grab a pen and paper, and pour up some bourbon and listen to the latest episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a

Jun 9, 2024 • 47:28

281: The Diverse Whiskey Portfolio of Coors Spirits Co.

Past guest, Mike Montgomery, re-joins Bourbon Lens to talk whiskey.  Mike is the co-founder of Blue Run Spirits and previously appeared in Episode 115 and Episode 177 of Bourbon Lens. Mike is currently the Vice President of Spirits for the Molson Coors Beverage Company, which acquired Blue Run Spirits in mid-2023.  Molson Coors is growing its spirits division and Blue Run is a big piece of that movement.  The portfolio also includes two relative newcomers to the whiskey world,  Barmen 1873 Bourb

Jun 2, 2024 • 50:16

280: The Evolution and Growth of Southern Distilling Co.

We’re joined by Pete Barger, co-founder of Southern Distilling Company in Statesville, North Carolina. Pete discusses what led him to founding his distillery. We also explore the growth they’ve experienced, from sourcing whiskey to producing their own spirits, and even becoming one of the largest contract distillers you may have not heard of yet. This is a wide-ranging episode and capped off by some excellent whiskey and great company. If you’re looking for your next grain-to-glass bottle of whi

May 27, 2024 • 50:10

279: A Toast to the Story of Blackwood Distilling Co.

We sit down with our friend, Zach Johnston, of Blackwood Distilling Co. Zach is currently the Chief Business Officer of International Sales for Blackwood. We discuss Zach’s background in the spirits world, including his time writing for UPROXX and judging spirits competitions. Zach is tasked with growing Blackwood to the next level as they grow their portfolio from ultra-limited edition releases to gain a broader audience in the international market.  We taste through their limited release Toast

May 19, 2024 • 1:01:56

278: Visiting Limestone Branch Distillery's New Tasting Lodge

Jake travels to Lebanon KY to visit Limestone Branch and see the new Stephen B. Beam Tasting Lodge.  He’s joined by Master Distiller, Stephen Beam, and Stephen Fante, Brand Ambassador for Limestone Branch.  They discuss the new facility, the single barrel program, and growing the Yellowstone Whiskey brand.  Don’t miss this episode. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for your support over the last 5 years. We must

May 12, 2024 • 47:15

277: The New Chapter in the History of Templeton Distillery

Our guest today is Shane Fitzharris for Templeton Distillery in Iowa.  Shane is the Senior VP for Commercial for Infinium Spirits, owner of the Templeton Distillery and brands.  We discuss the next chapter in Templeton’s history as they recently released their first spirit distilled in-house;  Fortitude Straight Iowa Bourbon.  We discuss the history of the brand, their revival of the brand, and how they sourced a very popular Rye Whiskey to grow their brand to be in a position to distill and rel

May 6, 2024 • 1:01:18

276: How Brown-Forman Focuses on Sustainability with a Global Spirits Portfolio

Our guest today is Andy Battjes, Brown-Forman’s Director of Global Environmental Sustainability.  With responsibility over the company’s diverse, global spirits portfolio, Andy is a company leader who drives their sustainability initiatives around the globe. Through his work over the last 18+ years, Battjes has guided Brown-Forman in targeting areas within the supply chain and beyond where they can implement green initiatives.  Brown-Forman (home to iconic brands such as Jack Daniel’s Tennessee

Apr 28, 2024 • 40:34

275: Keeper’s Heart and the Bright Future of O’Shaughnessy Distilling Co.

Jake is joined by Brian Nation to talk about Keeper’s Heart Whiskey and catch up since his first appearance back in Bourbon Lens Episode 153. Keeper’s Heart is a unique blend of Irish Whiskeys and American Whiskeys.  Bringing together two unique distilling traditions, O’Shaughnessy Distilling Co. and Keeper’s Heart are led by industry legend, Master Distiller Brian Nation, previously of Jameson, Redbreast, and Midleton. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a re

Apr 21, 2024 • 42:09

274: What is Your "Special Occasion" Bourbon?

Jake and Scott are talking about bourbons that are perfect for special occasions.  As we head into Derby season here in the Bluegrass State and the upcoming Kentucky Derby 150, we couldn't help but think that it would be a perfect event to crack open some special bottles.  We discuss some advice on finding a special bottle to celebrate an occasion, event, or a special person.  The best part is, a special occasion pour doesn’t always have to be priceless or unobtainable.  Some of the best choices

Apr 14, 2024 • 45:57

273: Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey But With a Strong Age Statement

Jake and Scott sit down with the two newest Batches of the Jack Daniel's Aged Series of Tennessee Whiskey.  These include Batch 2 of the 12 Year and Batch 3 of the 10 Year.  How do they stack up and are they worth the hunt?  Find out in today's episode! The Jack Daniel Distillery recently announced the release of Batch 2 of its 12-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey and Batch 3 of its 10-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey. The expressions are the latest in the Jack Daniel’s Aged Series, an annual release of age-

Apr 7, 2024 • 34:14

272: Kyle Busch Competes with the 'Rebel Spirit' in NASCAR

The worlds of Bourbon and NASCAR collide in this week’s episode of Bourbon Lens.  Kyle “Rowdy” Busch and Master Distiller John Rempe from Lux Row Distillers talk all things Rebel Bourbon. For the first time ever, Kyle’s #8 Chevy Camaro is fully wrapped in Rebel Bourbon branding this weekend for the NASCAR Cup Series in Richmond.  We discuss the partnership between Rebel Bourbon and Kyle Busch, the importance of sponsors in the sport, and how Kyle exemplifies the Rebel Spirit.  Master Distiller J

Mar 31, 2024 • 26:50

271: Aaron Harris is Stewarding Green River Distilling into the Future

Our guest this week is Aaron Harris, Head Distiller at Green River Distilling Co. in Owensboro Kentucky.  Aaron is tasked with stewarding this historic distillery and ensuring its presence as a modern whiskey powerhouse.  We discuss Aaron’s background in whiskey, distillery operations, their latest release of Green River Straight Rye Whiskey, and his goals for the brand in the future. Check out this week’s insightful episode featuring Green River Distilling Co. For more details on Green River Ry

Mar 24, 2024 • 34:51

270: Cedar Ridge is a Hidden Gem Distillery in Iowa

We’re joined by Murphy Quint, Master Distiller for Cedar Ridge Distillery.  Located in Swisher Iowa, Cedar Ridge Distilley is producing a variety of whiskies, including their Iowa Bourbon and American Single Malts, which we taste in this episode.  We discuss QuintEssential American Single Malt, QuintEssential Portside, Barrel Proof Bourbon, and Double Barrel Bourbon.   Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for your s

Mar 17, 2024 • 1:00:53

269: A Look Inside the New “Whiskey House” with its Founders

We’re on location at Whiskey House with two of its co-founders, David Mandell and John Hargrove. Located in Elizabethtown Kentucky, Whiskey House is heading into the final stages of construction and plans to be the most sophisticated, technically advanced producer of custom bourbon and American whiskey in the United States. We learn about their plans to satisfy a unique need in the whiskey world and potentially disrupt the current sourced whiskey market. Whiskey House’s sole focus is their custo

Mar 10, 2024 • 40:44

268: Exploring the Story of North Carolina's Oaklore Distilling Co.

Friends and co-Founders, Matt Simpkins and Thomas Bogan, join Bourbon Lens in this week’s podcast. We’re talking Oaklore Distilling Co. in Matthews, NC.  Tom and Matt started like most whiskey hobbyists do, with tasting nights in their basements and at their bars, but quickly developed their passion into a brand and now distillery.  Located in North Carolina, Oaklore is looking to embrace its community as it grows its distilling operation and its distribution footprint through DTC online sales.

Mar 4, 2024 • 54:27

267: Catching Up with Chattanooga Whiskey on their Growth and Success

For the first time in 4 years, Chattanooga Whiskey founder Tim Piersant rejoins Bourbon Lens to catch up with the guys. Chattanooga Whiskey is a homegrown company that makes a unique style of whiskey in Tennessee; they call it Tennessee High Malt.  They focus on unique and malted grains for their Mashbills and release a lineup of solid whiskeys as their standard offerings as well as their more limited runs.  Whether it’s the Experimental, Bottled in Bond Vintage, Vault, or Cask Finishing series,

Feb 26, 2024 • 1:05:51

266: Makers of Missouri Bourbon: Get to Know Holladay Distillery

Our guest this week is Kyle Merklein, Master Distiller for Holladay Distillery.  Based in Weston, Missouri, Holladay Distillery made a splash in the bourbon world when they released a 6 Year Botted in Bond Missouri Bourbon in 2022.  Since that time, they’ve had several additional releases, including the highly acclaimed Soft Red Wheat Bourbon and Rickhouse Proof Bourbon.  Kyle Merklein joins Bourbon Lens to discuss his unconventional path to Master Distiller and what makes Holladay’s lineup of M

Feb 19, 2024 • 52:56

265: Inside the World-Class Whiskey Bar at Watch Hill Proper

Bourbon Lens visits Louisville’s premier whiskey bar and restaurant, Watch Hill Proper.  Founders Josh Howes and Tommy Craggs sit down with Jake and Scott to discuss their journey to opening Watch Hill Proper.  This is a true destination to see when visiting Louisville and the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.  Find out why in today’s episode. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us over the last

Feb 12, 2024 • 53:06

264: Filmland Spirits Returns for An Encore Appearance

Troy Bolotnick is back for his encore appearance on Bourbon Lens to talk about Filmland Spirits.  We discuss Filmland Spirits and their expanded lineup since his last visit, including the Extended Cut bottlings of Moonlight Mayhem and Ryes of the Robots.  Extended Cut is the brand’s Cask Strength offering of their whiskies.  Since his last appearance, Filmland has also debuted Town at the End of Tomorrow, a limited release 9 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon.   We’ll talk about what’s in the pipeli

Feb 5, 2024 • 45:27

263: A Masterful Blend of Three Generations at Wild Turkey Distillery

Jake travels to Lawrenceburg to sit down with Bruce Russell, the newly appointed Associate Blender for Wild Turkey and part of the famed Russell Family. During their conversation, Bruce discusses the legacy of the Russell Family, creating Generations with Jimmy and Eddie, and what’s on the horizon for Wild Turkey Distillery. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us over the last 5 years

Jan 29, 2024 • 47:42

262: Beverly Spirits and Their New Barrel Strength American Whiskey

Our guest this week is Andrew Borenzweig, Founder of Beverly Spirits.  Andrew joins Bourbon Lens to discuss the path that led him to build a luxury spirits brand, crafting the liquid with Master Blender Murphy Quint, and (of course) his portfolio of American Whiskey.  We’ve previously reviewed Beverly High Rye, the brand's initial offering, but we we’re excited to see what Beverly had in store with their barrel strength release; The Beverly Reserve. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast

Jan 22, 2024 • 39:48

261: Barrell Craft Spirits Built a Solid Foundation for New Facility

Barrell Craft Spirits invited Bourbon Lens to their new Jeffersontown Kentucky blending facility to record this week’s episode of the podcast.  We’re joined by Founder Joe Beatrice and Tripp Stimson, Director of Distillery Operations. During the episode, we discuss the new facility, its impressive design, and how it was built from the ground up with efficiency and quality at the forefront. We also discuss some of the recent whiskey releases from BCS, including Foundation, New Year 2024, and some

Jan 15, 2024 • 1:11:46

260: Highlighting the Happenings at High West Whiskey

In the latest episode of the Bourbon Lens podcast, Jake sits down with Tara Lindley and Holly Booth of High West Whiskey. Tara and Holly play pivotal roles in helping consumers get to know High West by creating the whiskey and running the hospitality program.  You don’t have to look very hard to see the stamp these women have placed on the Utah-based whiskey company. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone

Jan 8, 2024 • 48:37

259: 15 STARS is the Father-Son Team Racking Up Big Whiskey Awards

Our guests this week are the Father-Son team at 15 STARS Fine Aged Spirits.  Rick and Ricky Johnson join Bourbon Lens to talk whiskey and how they founded the company.  The Johnsons are no stranger to the world of unique grains, given their background in growing heirloom corn varietals, including Baby Black Corn and red, white, and blue heritage corns. Currently, 15 STARS is releasing some award-winning limited release whiskey blends and has aging stocks of whiskey which leverage their heirloom

Jan 2, 2024 • 52:38

258: Ross & Squibb Distillery Master Distiller Ian Stirsman

Bourbon Lens visits the Willy Wonka Factory of Whiskey this week.  We’re in Lawrenceburg Indiana for an amazing tour at the Ross & Squibb Distillery (formerly known as MGPI) and an eye-opening podcast. Jake and Scott sit down with Master Distiller Ian Stirsman and Master Blender Sam Schmeltzer to discuss the distillery, its history and a little of what’s in store for its bright future. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are th

Dec 26, 2023 • 45:41

257: Heather Greene on the Growth of Milam & Greene Whiskey

We’re joined by Heather Greene, CEO and Master Blender for Milam & Greene Whiskey.  Heather is an industry veteran with a diverse background and a wealth of knowledge.  She is also a whiskey writer, author of Whisk(e)y Distilled, and understands many of the behind the scenes dynamics of the whiskey world. For her contributions to Milam & Greene, Heather was recently recognized as the Top Master Blender 2023 by the Bourbon Women at the Women of Whiskey Awards. Milam & Greene sources barrels, cont

Dec 18, 2023 • 53:37

256: Whiskey Pairing with Goodfellas Pizza at Wiseguy Lounge

Bourbon Lens visits the Wiseguy Lounge for a very unique episode. We’re joined by Chase Henry and Jeremiah Johnson with Goodfellas Pizza to discuss the origins of the pizza establishment and its speakeasy concept, Wiseguy Lounge.  And, in a first for Jake and Scott, we explore pizza and whiskey pairings and how you can look to elevate your bourbon tastings with food.  We hope this new episode inspires you to explore your palate beyond your traditional whiskey tasting.  It certainly opened our ey

Dec 11, 2023 • 45:40

255: O.H. Ingram River Aged Whiskey

Hank Ingram rejoins Bourbon Lens to catch up on all things O.H. Ingram.  Hank last appeared on the show back in late 2020 in Episode 103 and has since relocated his entire operation; expanded distribution, and continues to get high praise for his portfolio of river aged whiskies. Find out what’s on the horizon for O.H. Ingram and Hank in this week’s new episode.  About O.H. Ingram River Aged: Inside the only floating barrelhouses in the world, barrels of O.H. Ingram River Aged whiskies spend the

Dec 4, 2023 • 54:52

254: Exploring the Terroir and Provenance of Waterford Whisky

Get ready to “nerd out” over whisky with our newest podcast featuring Waterford Whisky. Waterford is an Irish Single Malt with a Scottish passion. Mark Reynier, Founder of Waterford Whisky, and Jake discuss the importance of heirloom grains and terroir in whiskey-making. Waterford Whisky looks to create distinct and unique flavors in the single malt category. We would love to hear your thoughts on heirloom grains and terroir, and if you think they make a difference in your whiskey! Stream this e

Nov 27, 2023 • 1:11:18

253: Virginia Distillery Co. Distills with the Courage of its Convictions

We’re joined by Virginia Distillery Company CEO, Gareth Moore. We discuss the role of VDC in the continued growth of American Single Malt as well as Gareth carrying forward his father’s legacy of making the finest single malts in America. And, of course, we walk through some VDC’s portfolio of American Single Malt.  VDC is one of the leaders in the ASMW world and their role in pushing the category into the mainstream in America is particularly evident.  If you haven’t explored American Single Ma

Nov 20, 2023 • 56:56

252: Independent Bottlers and Their Important Role In American Whiskey

This week, we are joined by the founders of Lost Lantern and American Mash & Grain to discuss independent bottlers in the American Whiskey landscape.  We discuss the importance of the Independent Bottlers, some of the challenges they face, and the successes they’ve experienced in sourcing the nation’s top whiskies for their labels.  We hope you enjoy this roundtable discussion with Lost Lantern founders Nora Ganley-Roper & Adam Polonski and Devin Ershow & Chase Langdon from American Mash & Grain

Nov 13, 2023 • 59:08

251: Veterans Day Salute to Service with Four Branches Bourbon

We are saluting Veterans this week in our annual Salute To Service Veterans Day podcast. This year, we were privileged to be joined by Four Branches Bourbon and its four founders. Rick Franco (US Marine Corps), Mike Trott (US Air Force), Harold Underdown (US Navy), and RJ Casey (US Army) sat down with us just prior to their launch party back in April 2023 at Bardstown Bourbon Company.  Since that time, they’ve launched their bourbon for online purchase and in several states, with distribution e

Nov 6, 2023 • 46:42

250: Celebrating a Big Milestone with Buffalo Trace Antique Collection 2023

In a special episode for Bourbon Lens, we’re celebrating the  milestone of 250 Episodes with a tasting of the new Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC). A special thanks to the team at Buffalo Trace Distillery and Sazerac Company for allowing us this opportunity to taste this ultra limited, highly sought after whiskey collection.  Jake and Scott taste through the 5 bottle lineup of 2023 BTAC and give their thoughts on each.  Which bottle should you seek out to taste at a bar or to add to your

Oct 29, 2023 • 51:55

249: Exploring the Unique Whiskey Portfolio of Samson & Surrey

Elayne Duff, Samson & Surrey’s Director of Brand Advocacy, joins Bourbon Lens to talk about their whiskey portfolio. Joining the company in May 2023, Duff brings more than 20 years of industry experience to the position and oversees advocacy team for Samson & Surrey’s diverse family of award-winning, premium craft spirits. The lineup spans from bartender darling Tequila Ocho and artisan mezcal brand Mezcal Vago, to Bluecoat American dry gin; FEW Spirits; Brenne French Single Malt Whisky; and Bro

Oct 22, 2023 • 56:36

248: Celebrating Old Fashioned Week with Elijah Craig and Friends

In a first, Bourbon Lens podcast joins forces with its sibling podcast, Cocktails with Friends, on this week’s special episode to celebrate Old Fashioned Week. Old Fashioned Week is October 13-22, 2023.  We’re joined by Lynn House with Heaven Hill to discuss the Old Fashioned Week campaign. We talk about tips for making the classic cocktail, Elijah Craig’s whiskey lineup, and the charitable element of this 10-day long celebration. If you want to join the fun, participating bars are searchable v

Oct 15, 2023 • 39:03

247: Barrel Global is Bringing Bourbon Ownership to Consumers

Jake is joined by George Koutsakis to discuss his latest venture in spirits, Barrel Global. Barrel Global is a whiskey startup that has the goal of connecting spirits buyers with spirits makers. Barrel Global makes barrel ownership possible for first-time collectors by allowing the purchase of just one barrel, so you too can enjoy the experience and rewards of barrel ownership. Whether it’s one barrel or many, Barrel Global is your one-stop-shop for buying and bottling your very own distilled sp

Oct 8, 2023 • 31:29

246: Catching Up with Wally Dant at Log Still Distillery

We’re back on the road and at Log Still Distillery in Gethsemane, Kentucky.  We sit down with Founder, Wally Dant, to discuss all that has gone on at Log Still since we last visited over two years ago.  This is a destination distillery for anyone who is going out on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.  Log Still Distillery’s expansive campus (in addition to its world class distillery and tasting room) includes an outdoor amphitheater with world-class entertainment, a 20,000 square foot wedding and event

Oct 1, 2023 • 45:19

245: Jefferson's Bourbon Heads to the Tropics

We are joined by the newest member of the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame, Trey Zoeller. Trey is the Founder of Jefferson’s Bourbon and is a return guest to the Bourbon Lens podcast. Trey previously joined us for Episode 72 and we were happy to catch up with him during Bourbon Heritage Month. In this episode, we discuss Jefferson’s latest innovation, Jefferson’s Tropics Aged in Humidity, which had Trey send a load of his bourbon to Singapore to test the impact of Singapore's extreme heat and humid

Sep 25, 2023 • 46:46

244: Michter's Distillery Bourbons with Master Whiskey-Makers

We're exploring the bourbon lineup from our friends at Michter's Distillery.  Andrea Wilson and Dan McKee re-join Bourbon Lens to help us celebrate our 5th Anniversary and Bourbon Heritage Month. Andrea is Michter's Master of Maturation as well as its Chief Operating Officer. As Michter's Master of Maturation, Andrea manages barrel specifications, barrel procurement, heat cycling and temperature monitoring during aging, tracking maturation of barrels, whiskey filtration in preparation for bottli

Sep 18, 2023 • 1:01:17

243: Freddie Johnson on Why Buffalo Trace is One of America's Most Popular Distilleries

We continue our 5 Year Anniversary and Bourbon Heritage Month celebration with a legend in the Kentucky Bourbon industry, Freddie Johnson from Buffalo Trace Distillery.   Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us over the last 5 years. The biggest shoutout to our growing Patreon Community of supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedbac

Sep 10, 2023 • 54:31

242: Five Year Anniversary Celebration Kick-Off with Heaven Hill Distillery

We’re kicking off our month-long celebration of our 5 Year Anniversary and Bourbon Heritage Month with DSP-KY-1.  That’s right, we travel to Heaven Hill’s “Bernheim” Distillery in Louisville to visit with Master Distiller, Conor O’Driscoll.  It has been a long time coming to record with Heaven Hill Distillery and we couldn’t be happier to be on location of this massive distillery.  As you know by now, this is likely Scott’s favorite distillery of all time as it produces some of his favorite whis

Sep 3, 2023 • 38:23

241: The Evolution of Shortbarrel Whiskey

Clinton Dugan, co-founder of Shortbarrel, joins Bourbon Lens to talk about Shortbarrel and their journey from barrel-picking group, to non-distilling producer, to distillery.  This is a unique look at the evolution of a brand in the whiskey world. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take t

Aug 27, 2023 • 54:45

240: Three Exciting New Bourbons from Heaven Hill Distillery

Jake and Scott line up some of the newest releases from Heaven Hill Distillery including the Spring 2023 release of Old Fitzgerald Bottled in Bond, a 10 year wheated bourbon.  We also get our first taste of the new Larceny Barrel Proof C923 and Square 6 Wheated Bourbon.  This is a great teaser episode in our lead-up to our 5th Anniversary and Bourbon Heritage Month podcast series, which will feature a long-awaited podcast with Master Distiller Conor O'Driscoll. Stream this episode on your favori

Aug 20, 2023 • 43:56

239: Diageo Master Blender and Orphan Barrel's New 'Scarlet Shade' Rye

We’re joined by Samantha Johnson, Master Blender for Diageo and their most recent Orphan Barrel Series release, Scarlet Shade Rye Whiskey.  For those unfamiliar, Orphan Barrel Whiskey Co. is a project to save nearly forgotten barrels of well-aged whiskey and share them with the world. We talk about this release as well as Samantha’s process for crafting unique and thoughtful whiskey blends from extraordinary casks. Thanks to our good friends, Courtney (@PicsAndPours) and Jaron (@Bourbon_In_India

Aug 13, 2023 • 37:58

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Featuring Chef Julian Medina

In the Season 2 finale of Off Hours with Bourbon Lens, Jake & Jake sit down with Chef Julian Medina.  We’re closing out this Season with another chef, so you know Jake L. is smiling as we talk about food, education, and running multiple restaurants.  Find some time like Chef, throw on your running shoes, and stream this episode as you take us for a walk or a jog around the block.  Thanks for listening to another episode of Off Hours with Bourbon Lens. Check out new episodes of Off Hours with Bou

Aug 9, 2023 • 44:31

238: The Past, Present, & Future of Smooth Ambler

Our guests for this episode are Smooth Ambler Founder, John Little, and Travis Hammond, Site Director and current Head Distiller. This wide-ranging conversation is one of the most open discussions we’ve had with a distillery.  We appreciated their openness and honesty as we discussed the evolution and future of Smooth Ambler.  We hope you enjoy!  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us

Aug 6, 2023 • 57:43

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Featuring Brand Founders

In this episode of Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Jake L. hosts alone as Jake I. slides into the interview seat along with the founders of the brands Eight Beer, Melati Drinks, Solento Organic Tequila, and Off Hours Bourbon.  The roundtable comes together to share insights unique to startups in the beverage space.  This conversation shows that it takes guts and rolling up your sleeves to make it in this industry.  Thanks for listening to another episode of Off Hours with Bourbon Lens. Check out new

Aug 2, 2023 • 54:54

237: Discovering Hidden Barn Whiskey

Our guests this week are Jackie Zykan and Nate Winegar. Jackie and Nate have teamed up with Royce Neeley and Matt Danker to launch Hidden Barn Whiskey. The team has leveraged Jackie’s skills in blending some damn fine whiskies and we are so excited to talk with Jackie yet again on Bourbon Lens.   We have a great time catching up with Nate and Jackie and are so excited to see how this emerging whiskey brand grows.  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review w

Jul 31, 2023 • 51:17

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Featuring Kyle Tucker

Jake & Jake are back with another episode of Off Hours with Bourbon Lens. We sat down with Kyle Tucker of The Athletic who covers University of Kentucky Basketball and some Kentucky Football. Kyle shares some important insights on being there for his family and wife during trying times and how much just saying ‘I love you’ can mean.  This podcast might pull at your heartstrings, but it is a must-listen podcast for everyone, especially the dads and husbands.   Thanks for listening to another epis

Jul 26, 2023 • 44:47

236: Elevating Your Home Bar with The Cocktail Guru

Perfect for summer, our guest today is here to talk about all things Cocktails! He is Jonathan Pogash, also known as “The Cocktail Guru”.  Jonathan joins Jake to talk about being creative with cocktails at home and his tips for any home bartender.  Join us as we expand our palate from our usual whiskey neat to more complex drinks. Cheers! Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge

Jul 23, 2023 • 44:19

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Featuring Noah Neiman

Jake & Jake are back with a new episode of Off Hours with Bourbon Lens.  In this episode, we chat with Noah Neiman of Rumble Boxing.  Noah opens up about his story of dealing with drug addiction and mental health issues to focusing that energy into creating a unique, successful fitness concept.  Not only is Noah truly authentic, he is absolutely hilarious.  Kick back, enjoy a laugh, and stream this week’s episode.  Thanks for listening to another episode of Off Hours with Bourbon Lens. Check out

Jul 19, 2023 • 53:00

235: Discovering Clyde May's Alabama-Style Whiskey

This week, we’re joined by L.C. May, the youngest grandson of brand namesake Clyde May, and Roy Danis. Roy is the President and CEO of Conecuh Brands LLC.  We discuss the Conecuh Brands portfolio, including Clyde May’s Whiskey. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us f

Jul 16, 2023 • 39:16

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Featuring Justin Nabozna

Jake and Jake are back with another episode of Off Hours with Bourbon Lens and their guest this week is Justin Nabozna, COO of sipMARGS.  sipMARGS is a ready-to-drink, bold-tasting, yet refreshing, canned margarita. Unlike many of its competitors who use a malt or wine base, sipMARGS uses real tequila in their canned cocktails for a more authentic flavor for tequila drinkers and non- alike.  Find out how Justin enjoys his Off Hours when he's not growing startups and small businesses. Enjoy summe

Jul 12, 2023 • 44:47

234: Previewing the Kentucky Bourbon Festival 2023

We are joined by Steve Coomes, Kentucky Bourbon Festival Programming Coordinator, to highlight the 2023 Festival’s educational programming including premium and included events. The Kentucky Bourbon Festival is Sept. 15-17, 2023. More than 50 bourbon brands are participating this year — and sampling is included with all tickets! Many brands will also have bottles to sell including exclusive KBF bottle picks.  Additionally, the KBF is expanding and upgrading food offerings, including an all-new p

Jul 9, 2023 • 38:59

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Featuring Ian Rapoport

Jake and Jake sit down with Ian Rapoport, who has some of the fastest fingers and is one of the most connected men in the NFL.  During this episode, we start to get the lay of the land of how an insider works, how to balance work and life in this “up to the second” environment, and how he began to enjoy whiskey.  You won’t want to miss this podcast!  Thanks for listening to another episode of Off Hours with Bourbon Lens. Check out new episodes of Off Hours with Bourbon Lens streaming now here. T

Jul 5, 2023 • 39:22

233: Dixon Dedman Returns with 2XO Whiskey

Dixon Dedman joins the Bourbon Lens podcast for the first time since Episode 59 to discuss his new venture, 2XO (Two Times Oak).  We discuss his creative process, his thoughts on current state of the whiskey world, and, of course, the latest release from 2XO - The Innkeeper’s Blend. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well!

Jul 2, 2023 • 1:08:37

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Featuring Nic Barisone

Jake & Jake sit down with Nic Barisone of High Camp Flasks to talk about life in Northern California, getting outdoors, crafting homemade pizza and much more.  You will want to pack this podcast along with you as you take your next adventure outdoors.  And don’t forget your High Camp Flask either!  Don’t miss the opportunity to win a High Camp Flask, head on over to Instagram for your chance to win.  The full rules are below:  Like the giveaway post on Instagram  Must be following: @Highcampfla

Jun 28, 2023 • 42:26

232: Eric LeGrand Launches LeGrand Kentucky Bourbon

We are joined by Eric LeGrand and Eric LeGrand Whiskey co-founder Brian Axelrod. We discuss Eric’s inspirational story about his path from Rutgers University football star to champion advocate for spinal cord injury research, his grit, positivity, and determination both on and off the field, and what led him to create a whiskey bearing his name.  Jake was very inspired by Eric during his football years and during this episode and we are so thankful to Eric and Brian for joining us to tell their

Jun 25, 2023 • 43:30

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Featuring George Laboda

This week Jake & Jake sit down with George LaBoda of Gent’s Lounge and Atlas and Mason.  We dive into discussions of men’s fashion, such as wearing skinny jeans or what knot to tie with your dress shirt, the importance of finding friends that you have deep bonds with, and what it’s like to become a dad. Make sure you tune into this week's episode so you are never out of style!  Thanks for listening to another episode of Off Hours with Bourbon Lens. Check out new episodes of Off Hours with Bourbo

Jun 21, 2023 • 46:11

231: Oak & Eden's New Whiskey Customizer

Jake and Scott recently had a unique opportunity to create their own whiskies thanks to Oak & Eden’s new “Whiskey Customizer.” The new online experience allows you to be the whiskey-maker and select from over 2,000 unique combinations to craft your own unique finished whiskey.  Jake and Scott each created our own whiskey and sat down with them blind to identify what our choices were and how they stacked up against each other.  A big thank you to Oak & Eden for proposing this podcast idea and sup

Jun 18, 2023 • 25:40

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Featuring Jay Bruce

Jake & Jake sit down with 14 year Major League Baseball veteran Jay Bruce.  In this week’s episode, we talk about finding your passion in your second career, having a healthy relationship with little league sports, and what it is like to be a family man.  Tune in to this week’s episode, we think it’s a home run!  Thanks for listening to another episode of Off Hours with Bourbon Lens. Check out new episodes of Off Hours with Bourbon Lens streaming now here. This has been another production of Bou

Jun 14, 2023 • 40:38

230: Hemingway Rye Whiskey and The Call Family

We’re joined by the Call Family (Ron, Clayton, and Jacob). We discuss the new Hemingway Rye Whiskey and their work at Western Kentucky Distilling, which they’ve built from the ground up in Beaver Dam, Kentucky.  Each member of this father-sons trio brings a unique perspective to the whiskey-making process.  We discuss their roles and visions for the distillery and the whiskies they produce. Thanks to the Call Family for joining us this week and for sharing a pour of Hemingway Whiskey as well as

Jun 11, 2023 • 42:08

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Featuring Conor Daly

In this week's episode of Off Hours with Bourbon Lens, Jake and Jake sit down with IndyCar and NASCAR race car driver Conor Daly.  Conor shares about his love for racing, bourbon, and living in the moment.  When you are racing at over 200 MPH, you have to find ways to enjoy the moments in between. Thanks for listening to another episode of Off Hours with Bourbon Lens. Check out new episodes of Off Hours with Bourbon Lens streaming now here. This has been another production of Bourbon Lens LLC.

Jun 7, 2023 • 43:30

229: Monkey 47 Gin: Distilling in the Black Forest of Germany

In celebration of all things spirits and World Gin Day on June 10th, we have a special guest this week. We are joined by Alexander Stein, Founder of Monkey 47, to talk about a different type of distilled spirit; Gin.  While gin may be a bit outside of our typical coverage, Scott’s first introduction to the spirits world was really through his discovery of this juniper-based spirit.  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thank

Jun 4, 2023 • 41:25

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Featuring Chef Dafne Mejia

Jake & Jake sit down with Dafne Mejia, Private Chef and runner up on Season 21 of Hell’s Kitchen to discuss her passion for cooking, bourbon and much more.  Of course, Jake L. had to talk about his passion for cooking during this episode. Tune into the latest episode of Off Hours with Bourbon Lens on your favorite podcast listening app today. During this podcast, we discuss a story involving a DUI and the impact that can have on one's life.  We ask you to please drink responsibly in your Off Hou

May 31, 2023 • 47:03

228: Brindiamo Group Pulls Back the Curtain of the Whiskey Industry

Jeff Hopmayer joins us in "The Office" to discuss the Brindiamo Group, the company he founded, which has played an integral part in the behind-the-scenes creation of many spirits brands you've seen emerge and grow in years past. In fact, Brindiamo Group stands out as one of the largest suppliers of bourbon, whiskey, and other bulk spirits in the world. We delve into the Brindiamo Group's exceptional position in the spirits world and the growth of sourced and independently bottled whiskey. This p

May 28, 2023 • 1:34:59

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Featuring Jake Ireland

About Episode One of Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Jake Lewellen, Co-Founder of Bourbon Lens, is back for Season 2 of Off Hours with Bourbon Lens. This time, he is joined by Founder of Off Hours Bourbon, Jake Ireland, to co-host 12 new episodes. In this first episode, Jake & Jake explore Off Hours Bourbon, fatherhood, work-life balance, and more. Make sure you are subscribed to the Bourbon Lens in your favorite podcast app to catch a new episode every Wednesday! Thanks for listening to Off Hou

May 24, 2023 • 24:53

227: Crafting Whiskey in Washington with District Made Spirits

We’re joined by Alex Laufer, Co-Founder and CEO of District Made Spirits in Washington D.C.  Alex and his small distillery team are focused on creating unique spirits which leverage premium and equally unique heirloom grain Mashbills.   Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to

May 21, 2023 • 1:04:53

226: Catoctin Creek Goes All-In On Rye Whiskey

Our guest is Becky Harris, Co-Founder and Chief Distiller of Virginia’s Catoctin Creek Distilling Co.  We discuss their unique rye whiskey portfolio, including their Roundstone Rye Whiskey lineup.  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you

May 14, 2023 • 44:52

225: How To Have The Ultimate Kentucky Bourbon Trip with Mint Julep Experiences

Our episode today is all about our recent experience of being tourists in our own city.  Thanks to Mint Julep Experiences for the opportunity and allowing Bourbon Lens to curate a custom bourbon tour around Louisville. You’ll hear about our jam-packed day which included a rare look inside Brown-Forman Cooperage, an intimate tour of the historic Stitzel-Weller property, and an insider’s look at Kentucky Artisan Distillery.  If you are looking to come to Kentucky, make sure you check out Mint Jule

May 7, 2023 • 36:00

224: Chicken Cock Unveils New Double Oak Whiskey

Our guest this week is Will Woodington with Grain & Barrel Spirits. We’ve followed Will for quite a while on social media (you can find him at @MashbillWill and @BondedInBottles on Instagram) and now he’s the National Brand Ambassador for the portfolio of brands. We discuss the history of Chicken Cock Whiskey, their flagship portfolio, and their latest limited release, an 8 Year Double Oak Kentucky Whiskey.  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while y

Apr 30, 2023 • 1:03:26

223: Whiskey in the American West with Brush Creek Distillery

We’re talking with Andrew Wason, Managing Director for Brush Creek Distillery in Wyoming.  Andrew is a Kentucky native and spirits industry veteran and he was finally able to join Bourbon Lens live to discuss what is happening in Saratoga Wyoming. Brush Creek Distillery sits on property that includes 30,000 acres of farmland, a cattle ranch, and a world-class resort with luxury accommodations. Brush Creek Distillery is focused on blending spirits that it has sourced by utilizing its spirits back

Apr 23, 2023 • 1:07:06

222: Art of Alchemy Blended Spirits

The Co-Founder of Art of Alchemy Blended Spirits joins us today to talk about Blend No. 1.  Mac Macsovits discusses the origins of Art of Alchemy and how they fit into the American Whiskey landscape as independent blenders and bottlers. This blend is a unique one and we cannot wait to see how Art of Alchemy conjures up some magic in their future releases. Their Blend No. 2 just launched recently and you can learn more about Art of Alchemy on their website here: Art of Alchemy. Stream this episod

Apr 17, 2023 • 49:06

221: Protecting Your Whiskey Collection with BAXUS

Our guest this week is Todd Wiesel, Founder and CEO of BAXUS.  We discuss whiskey collecting, spirits investing, and how BAXUS is seeking to be the leading platform to buy, sell, and invest in rare spirits.   Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podc

Apr 9, 2023 • 1:12:08

220: Jack Daniel's and Its Rise in American Pop Culture

Nelson Eddy rejoins Bourbon Lens for a “Part 2” episode on all things Jack Daniel’s.  You will recall Eddy’s last appearance back on Episode 202 when we discussed the legends and lore behind the brand.  As we teased in that episode, Eddy joins us today to talk about Jack’s surge into the mainstream and its place in pop culture, media, and its place on the world’s stage.   Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for eve

Apr 2, 2023 • 42:20

219: Going Outside the Box with Foursquare Rum

Our guest this week is Richard Seale, Master Distiller & Master Blender of Foursquare Rum Distillery in Barbados.  Aged Rum is an area we’ve not explored but a recent trip to Barbados inspired Jake to curate this episode for our Bourbon Lens listeners.  Well-aged rum stocks draw similarities to the bourbon world and for those who are looking to expand their palate, this is a must taste.   Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are

Mar 26, 2023 • 1:02:40

218: The Method and Madness of an Irish Whiskey Micro-Distillery

Jake is joined by Gerard Garland, Whiskey Ambassador for Irish Distillers and Method + Madness Irish Whiskey.  They discuss the explosive growth of Irish Whiskey as it competes globally in the Whiskey World.  Irish Whiskey is experiencing a rebirth as is evident by its growth and popularity.  We were excited to have the opportunity to branch out and try  some of the recent releases from Method and Madness. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you

Mar 19, 2023 • 1:12:56

217: The Ultimate Travel Guide to Experiencing Irish Whiskey

Our guest today is Drew Hannush, who is helping us kick off our coverage of Irish Whiskey for St. Patrick’s Day.  Drew is an author, podcaster, world traveler, and incredible storyteller.  Drew Hannush is the author of the best selling book "Whiskey Lore's Travel Guide to Experiencing Kentucky Bourbon” and his latest book, “Whiskey Lore’s Travel Guide to Experiencing Irish Whiskey”. He also hosts two whiskey podcasts, Whiskey Lore - The Stories & Whiskey Lore - The Interviews.  Drew has travel

Mar 12, 2023 • 1:21:46

216: Lucky Seven - Curators of Fine Spirits

We’re joined by the Founders of Lucky Seven Spirits, a spirits brand inspired by the Hollywood of old.  It’s name and packaging is an homage to the film world, including Hollywood’s Stage 7 (known as Lucky Seven). The stage gained its name because three Warner Bros. best picture winners — The Life of Emile Zola, My Fair Lady and Casablanca — and 10 best picture nominees were shot here.  We taste through two expressions of Lucky Seven, including The Frenchman and Holiday Toast.  Stream this episo

Mar 6, 2023 • 42:56

215: Exploring Single Malt Scotch with The Dalmore

Our guest this week is Craig Bridger of Whyte & Mackay. Craig brings us an impressive lineup of The Dalmore Single Malt Scotch Whiskies, including their 12 Year, USA-Exclusive 14 Year, Port Wood Reserve, and an exquisite and rare 18 Year Single Malt. Our US listeners should definitely keep their eyes out for the 14 Year.  The 14 Year joins The Dalmore Principal Collection, exclusively in the USA. Master Whisky Maker Gregg Glass led its development, the first expression to be finished in hand-sel

Feb 27, 2023 • 1:20:41

214: Diversity & Inclusion in Bourbon: Roundtable Discussion

Bourbon Lens is excited to play host to a roundtable discussion featuring three organizations aimed at making bourbon accessible for all.  We are joined by the Founders of Bourbon Women, Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild, and BIG Bourbon Club.  Join us as we discuss some important topics as we seek to pull back the red velvet rope of the Bourbon Industry to ensure everyone feels welcome sharing a pour of America’s Native Spirit.   About the Panelists: Peggy Noe Stevens - Founder of Bourbon Women Asso

Feb 20, 2023 • 47:45

213: Honoring A Legacy with Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey

Our guest this week is Victoria Eady Butler, Master Blender for Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey. Victoria had a rather unconventional path to the whiskey world, but her story is a great one and we were excited to have this opportunity. She’s honoring the legacy of her Great-Great-Grandfather in her role as the Master Blender of one of the top trending brands in American Whiskey. Uncle Nearest honors the world's first-known African American master distiller, Nearest Green. It was the first spirits

Feb 13, 2023 • 49:15

212: "Bourbon with heART" Presents Its Inaugural Bourbon Barrel Art Exhibit

Our guest is Morgan Hancock, Founder of Bourbon with Heart, Kentucky's first and only arts-focused bourbon charity.  Bourbon with Heart is hosting the Inaugural "Barrels of Heart" bourbon barrel art exhibit at the Frazier History Museum in Louisville, Kentucky. The Exhibit began on February 1, 2023 and runs through April. Visit Bourbon with Heart on Social Media to vote for your favorite barrel; the winning barrel artist will receive a $1,000 cash prize plus an additional $1,000 donated to their

Feb 6, 2023 • 26:59

211: Kings County Distillery is New York City's Oldest Distillery

Colin Spoelman is our guest this week and he is the Co-Founder of NYC’s Kings County Distillery.  We discuss how Colin grew a tiny distillery into New York City’s oldest and most respected craft whiskey distillery.  Colin has a unique approach to his whiskey craft and isn’t afraid to ruffle a few feathers to make great whiskey and gain respect amongst the world’s largest, and even smallest, distilleries.  Find out what makes Kings County whiskey stand out in the crowd by downloading this week’s

Jan 30, 2023 • 1:05:16

210: Five Trail Whiskey -The Next Generation of Molson Coors Brewing

Our guest this week is David Coors, of the iconic Coors Brewing family.  David is leading the Next Generation of Beverages for Molson Coors and he joins us to discuss their Five Trail Whiskey lineup.  Find out what inspired David to explore the whiskey world and how he convinced his brewing family to get into spirits. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our

Jan 23, 2023 • 49:18

209: The Irish Whiskey Resurgence with Sliabh Liag Distillers

We sit down with James Doherty, Founder of Sliabh Liag Distillers (pronounced “sleeve league”) to discuss their portfolio of Silkie Irish Whiskey which recently launched in the United States. We discuss the unique features of Irish Whiskey as well as the various offerings from Sliabh Liag. Find out what makes their whiskies stand out in a market that is seeing explosive growth for Irish Whiskey.  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.

Jan 16, 2023 • 51:14

208: Becoming Executive Bourbon Stewards at Stave & Thief Society

Jake and Scott catch up with Colin Blake, Director of Spirits Education at Moonshine University, after becoming two of the newest Executive Bourbon Stewards. Stave and Thief Society, which is part of Moonshine University, is the first bourbon certification program recognized by the bourbon industry and the only to be recognized by the Kentucky Distillers Association as its "Official Bourbon Education Course." The Executive Bourbon Steward Certification is a day-long, intensive training to streng

Jan 9, 2023 • 49:36

207: The Origin Series from Bardstown Bourbon Company

Jake travels to Bardstown for an early look (and taste) of Bardstown Bourbon Company’s first estate-distilled collection of whiskey releases; The Origin Series.  These whiskies release later this week and we had the opportunity to be among the first to try each of the 3 releases. If you’ve followed the Bourbon Lens for a while, you know that we have anticipated these whiskies for many years.  We discuss the new lineup with Dan Callaway and Brandon Smith from BBCo. Stream this episode on your fav

Jan 2, 2023 • 33:06

206: Colkegan American Single Malt Whiskey from Santa Fe Spirits

We are exploring American Single Malt again this week and tasting a lineup from Colkegan from Santa Fe Spirits in New Mexico. We’re joined by Colin Keegan, one of the pillars in the American Single Malt Whiskey community.  Colin talks about his path to making spirits in the Southwestern United States, the difficulties in growing a craft brand, and his commitment to crafting the best single malt whiskey in America.  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review

Dec 26, 2022 • 55:16

205: Filmland Spirits Making Whiskey Inspired by Hollywood

We’re joined by Filmland Spirits Founder and CEO Troy Bolotnick. Filmland Spirits has just released 3 new whiskies to market and are seeking to tell a story with every bottle.  Inspired by decade’s past B–Movies, their bottlings are sure to catch your attention on the shelf.  Each release is a homage to Hollywood, film-making, and wild storylines.  Visit FilmlandSpirits.com to grab yourself a bottle for your next movie night. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop u

Dec 19, 2022 • 40:14

204: Corbin Cash Distillery - Farm to Glass Whiskey in California

Our guest this week is David Souza, the Founder and Distiller for Corbin Cash Distillery in California.  We discuss the farm-to-glass approach of the Distillery and what drives David to produce craft whiskey in the San Joaquin Valley where his family has been farming for decades.  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We

Dec 12, 2022 • 56:39

203: Westland Distillery & the American Single Malt Explosion

Our guest this week is Matt Hofman of Westland Distillery.  Matt is the Co-Founder and Master Distiller of Westland Distillery in Seattle, Washington. Matt has passion for exceptional whiskies that reflect the region where they were made. He has received a General Certificate in Distilling from the Institute of Brewing and Distilling in London, as well as a Postgraduate Diploma in Distilling from the International Center for Brewing and Distilling at Heriot-Watt University. Matt’s work in Americ

Dec 5, 2022 • 1:22:47

202: Exploring the Legends & Lore of Jack Daniel's Distillery

Our guest this week is Nelson Eddy, historian for Jack Daniel’s Distillery. Nelson has represented the Jack Daniel’s brand for more than 34 years and learned the history and lore surrounding the brand working for its very first marketing director, Mr. Art Hancock.  In 1988, Eddy helped introduce the first new whiskey from the Jack Daniel Distillery in more than a century – Gentleman Jack Tennessee Whiskey.  He has since crafted numerous brand communications for Jack Daniel’s, including a book, t

Nov 28, 2022 • 49:25

201: An Ultra Premium Bourbon Cocktail - The Gold Fashioned

Our guest this week is Robert Haynes, former bartender at Chicago’s Violet Hour and the creator of Sunday's Finest Gold Fashioned. Robert is looking to reimagine the “ready to drink” cocktail to put an elevated spin on the Old Fashioned.  In fact, Sunday’s Finest is re-defining this iconic cocktail using some of  the best ingredients on the planet, including Afghan Saffron and Tahitian Vanilla. This is the 2nd release of the Gold Fashioned and features a blend of bourbon and rye composed of a 15

Nov 21, 2022 • 51:46

200: Celebrating a Milestone with Rare Buffalo Trace Whiskey: Last Drop Distillers

We’re celebrating our 200th episode of Bourbon Lens this week. And we couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate than with The Last Drop Distillers. Last Drop recently released their rare, ultra premium blend of Kentucky Straight Whiskies. Our guests today are Rebecca Jago, managing director of The Last Drop Distillers, and Drew Mayville, Sazerac Master Blender and founding member of The Last Drop Assembly. Find out more about this ultra-exclusive release which retails for $3,999 in this week’s

Nov 14, 2022 • 40:48

199: Our Salute to Service with Old Line Spirits - Veterans Day Special

It’s the return of our “Salute to Service” Veteran’s Day podcast. This week, we are saluting the service of our guest, Arch Watkins, and his partner, Mark McLaughlin, from Old Line Spirits.  Old Line Spirits is based in Maryland and has had a gritty story of building a top class American Single Malt distillery.   We hope you enjoy this episode and toast to Veterans this week!  If you are looking for a Veteran-Owned distillery to support, may we suggest Old Line? Stream this episode on your favor

Nov 7, 2022 • 44:43

198: Building "Brand Mysticism" - How to Launch a Viral Booze Brand

Our guests this week are Steven Grasse and Aaron Goldfarb who are set to release their latest book: Brand Mysticism. The book releases on November 8th and is a must read for anyone looking to add creativity to their life and brand.  This isn't your typical "booze book" and definitely will raise some eyebrows in the marketing world, but Steven Grasse doesn't mind that one bit.  His portfolio speaks for itself; he's created some of the biggest brands including Hendrick's Gin and Sailor Jerry Rum a

Oct 30, 2022 • 51:42

197: Blending America's Craft Whiskey with American Mash and Grain

We’re joined by the founders of American Mash & Grain, CEO Devin Ershow & COO Chase Langdon. Devin and Chase have created a website documentary project to highlight the American Craft Whiskey movement, regularly giving full featured reviews and telling the stories of the best craft whiskey distilleries.  The next progression for their project is marrying some of their favorite featured distilleries into a unique blend of American Whiskey.  Their first volume features 4 varied whiskies that they

Oct 23, 2022 • 56:02

196: A Conversation with Nate Gana, "International Man of Whisky"

We’re joined by the “International Man of Whisky”, Nate Gana.  He’s the man behind Bevridge, a carefully curated whisky experience that ships straight to your door, and currently has over 125K followers on his Instagram.  We discuss his views in the world of whisky and the growth of American Single Malt as well as the international impact of Bourbon. About Nate Gana:Nate is the Founder of @NateGana on Instagram (formerly known as @SingleMaltDaily), a platform of over 130K+ followers, as well as

Oct 16, 2022 • 37:29

195: Elevating the Global Spirits Market with William Grant & Sons

Our guest today is Tim Pitts, the Senior District Manager for Kentucky and Tennessee for William Grant & Sons Inc.  Working in the land of Kentucky Bourbon and Tennessee Whiskey, Tim is up for the challenge of bringing some of the world’s best Scotch Whisky to consumers in the area.  William Grant & Sons is an independent, family owned premium spirits company. Their core lineup includes some of the most well-known brands in spirits: Glenfiddich, Grant's, The Balvenie, Tullamore D.E.W., Drambuie,

Oct 9, 2022 • 37:16

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Episode 12: Seth Benhaim Broken Barrel Whiskey

It is the Finale Episode of “Off Hours with Bourbon Lens”. And, to celebrate the Finale, we are releasing our Single Barrel Selection of Off Hours Bourbon.  This is an extremely limited release of less than 100 bottles.  We couldn't think of a better way to cap off this successful podcast mini-series run.  If you've enjoyed this content, do us a big favor and pick yourself up a bottle to share with your friends and family in your 'Off Hours'.   Bottles are available online and shipped to your d

Oct 5, 2022 • 33:45

194: The Best of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival 2022

We're wrapping up our coverage of the 2022 Kentucky Bourbon Festival and Bourbon Heritage Month with some live recordings on-site at the Festival.  We’re joined by some great brands and distilleries like Kentucky Peerless, O.H. Ingram, Broken Barrel, RD1 Spirits, Old Steelhouse Distillery, and Bardstown Bourbon Co. Don’t miss out on the 2023 Kentucky Bourbon Festival, sign up for their newsletter via KyBourbonFestival.com.  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us

Oct 2, 2022 • 24:36

193: Steve Beam and the Yellowstone Bourbon Master Distiller Road Tour

Wrapping up Bourbon Heritage Month at Limestone Branch Distillery in Lebanon, KY.  We’re joined by Steve Beam, Master Distiller, to chat about his latest Limited Edition release of Yellowstone Bourbon and the Master Distiller Road Tour schedule.  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take t

Sep 25, 2022 • 29:23

192: Your Chance to Win a Rare Bourbon Collection from Kentucky to the World

We are joined by Marcus Niemann to discuss his involvement in Kentucky To The World, a non-profit which celebrates the accomplishments of Kentuckians across the globe.  Kentucky To The World is having a major fundraiser to cap off Bourbon Heritage Month and we want you to grab a ticket to support a great cause and have the opportunity to win some rare bourbon.  Full details on the campaign can  be found below, but how about a chance to win a Four Roses 2017 Limited Edition 50th Anniversary Small

Sep 18, 2022 • 21:20

191: Inside the Vintage Whiskey Library at Bardstown Bourbon Company

Recording inside the Vintage Whiskey Library at Bardstown Bourbon Co., we sit down with Head Distiller Nick Smith. Enjoy this week’s podcast as we talk about Bardstown’s “coming of age” whiskies (own distillate) that will release in the very near future and their blending and Collaboration Series of whiskies.  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout goes to our growin

Sep 11, 2022 • 39:44

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Episode 11: Jackie Zykan

We’re back for Episode 11 of “Off Hours with Bourbon Lens” featuring Jackie Zykan with Hidden Barn Whiskey and two-time former guest of Bourbon Lens Podcast. This episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Find the time and the moments in between. Find them with us in the Off Hours. Find out more about Off Hours Bourbon on their website. This has been another production of Bourbon Lens LLC.  Thank you f

Sep 7, 2022 • 33:37

190: The Best Bourbon Worth Hunting in Bourbon Heritage Month

Jake and Scott are kicking off Bourbon Heritage Month with some of the bourbons they'll be seeking to add to their shelves. Which bourbon releases are you most excited for this month? Any exciting new or limited releases you can’t wait to find? Let us know by sending us a message on social media or via our website.  And happy hunting!! Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge s

Sep 5, 2022 • 40:17

189: Balcones Distilling Setting The Standard For Texas Whisky

We’re talking Texas Whiskey with Balcones Distilling.  Balcones is located in Waco Texas and is known as the producer of “The Original Texas Whisky”.  We’re excited to discuss what makes Texas unique; it’s definitely more than its hot weather too.  We’re joined by Gabe RiCharde, the Director of Spirits at Balcones Distilling, where he has worked for nearly six years. Gabe has had a hand in many of the unique whiskies coming out of Waco, including one of the wildest whiskies we’ve tried in a long

Aug 28, 2022 • 1:00:09

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Episode 10: Sam Montgomery from Bardstown Bourbon Co.

We’re back for Episode 10 of “Off Hours with Bourbon Lens” featuring Sam Montgomery, National Brand Ambassador for Bardstown Bourbon Company. Find out what keeps Sam motivated and how she finds time to relax between her travels and her daily efforts to elevate Bardstown Bourbon Co and her craft cocktail game. This episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Find the time and the moments in between. Find

Aug 24, 2022 • 32:11

188: High West Distillery Discusses Their Whiskey Lineup

Jake sits down with one of his favorite brands to talk with High West Distillery’s Brendan Coyle.  Brendon, Master Distiller, talks about High West’s evolving core lineup and limited release schedule.  What makes High West Whiskey unique and why does it have a cult-like following?  Grab yourself a bottle of High West next time you see it on a shelf and find out!  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone wh

Aug 21, 2022 • 42:20

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Episode 9: David Mandell

We’re back for Episode 9 of “Off Hours with Bourbon Lens” featuring David Mandell, the man behind many projects in the heart of Bourbon Country; Bardstown Kentucky.  David is co-founder of Bardstown Bourbon Co. and is currently with Stoli Group/Kentucky Owl and is the Chairman of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival. Jake sits down with David to find out how he turns off his business mind and finds time for himself. This episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the

Aug 17, 2022 • 29:05

187: Discovering America's Best Craft Whiskey with Blind Barrels

Our guest this week is Bobby DeMars, founder and CEO of Blind Barrels. Bobby developed Blind Barrels as a quarterly blind tasting experience that ships straight to your door. Blind Barrels is an exploration of the craft whiskey scene of America and we were excited to test our palates. Blind tastings remove any “label bias” that whiskey drinkers may encounter when tasting their whiskies and we’ve found that blind tasting is one of the best ways to get serious about learning whiskey.  Sign up for

Aug 15, 2022 • 1:21:31

186: Reintroducing Old Potrero Straight Rye Whiskey

Our guest is Bruce Joseph, Master Distiller of Old Potrero Straight Rye Whiskey for Hotaling & Co.  Bruce previously appeared back in Episode 74 (circa June 2020), but he’s back with his unique malted rye whiskey and it is now bearing a higher age statement and some killer new packaging.  The malted rye mashbill is pot distilled in San Francisco and admittedly is one of the most unique whiskies we’ve tried during this podcast’s history. If you want to flex your palate and see what else is out th

Aug 8, 2022 • 34:57

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Episode 8: Marcus Niemann

We’re back for Episode 8 of “Off Hours with Bourbon Lens” featuring Marcus Niemann, the future Director of Quality and R&D at Michter's Distillery and former guest of our Behind the Scenes at Four Roses Episode way back on Episode 39.  Marcus is a long-time friend of Jake's who is passionate about philanthropy, bike riding, fatherhood, and fermentation. This episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Fi

Aug 3, 2022 • 26:20

185: Carefully Crafting Bourbon and Rye Whiskey with Pinhook

Putting a wine-maker’s spin on blending bourbon and rye, Sean Joseph’s utilizes his background as a Wine Sommelier to blend yearly vintages of Pinhook.  We discuss the Pinhook approach to blending and the work behind the horse racing-inspired branding.  It’s clear that there is a lot more to this whiskey than colorful wax.  Have you tried Pinhook Whiskies before?  Let us know your thoughts by dropping us a line on social media. About Pinhook: The standard approach to American whiskey uses blendi

Jul 31, 2022 • 1:03:10

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Episode 7: Penelope Bourbon

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

Jul 27, 2022 • 23:55

184: Making 'Painfully Craft' Whiskey at Preservation Distillery

Rare, old whiskies are the subject of today's podcast as we sit down with Preservation Distillery in Bardstown Kentucky.  Jake tastes through a flight of Preservation whiskies, including Rare Perfection, Very Olde St. Nick, and Wattie Boone & Sons. Our guest today is Jake Feldhuse who tells the brand's history, story, and a little bit about what might be in store for the distillery. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are than

Jul 24, 2022 • 52:58

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Episode 6: David DeFazio & Wyoming Whiskey

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

Jul 20, 2022 • 29:54

183: Kentucky Bourbon Festival: "Only Whiskey. Only in Bardstown."

Year 2 of the revamped Kentucky Bourbon Festival is just 2 months away. “Whiskey Only. Only In Bardstown.” is the tagline for the 2022 edition of the Festival. One of Kentucky's biggest events that celebrates its native spirit is returning for 2022, and tickets are on sale. The 31st Kentucky Bourbon Festival will be held Sept. 16 through Sept. 18 in Bardstown. Hear from Festival President Randy Prasse as he discusses last year’s event as well as what the future holds for the Festival.  Buy your

Jul 18, 2022 • 47:15

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Episode 5: Frey Ranch

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

Jul 6, 2022 • 24:10

182: Old Elk Distillery's New Limited Whiskey Releases

We are catching up with Old Elk’s Master Distiller, Greg Metze, since his last appearance back in Episode 101.  Old Elk Distillery is continuing to grow, expand its limited release portfolio , and experiment with blends and finishes. We taste their Master’s Blend Series offerings, Four Grain Bourbon and Double Wheat. Find out what’s going on in Fort Collins Colorado in this week’s episode of Bourbon Lens.  Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you

Jul 5, 2022 • 42:07

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Episode 4: John Wadell

We’re back with Episode 4 of “Off Hours with Bourbon Lens” featuring John Wadell, Single Barrel Curator for Kentucky Peerless Distilling and Founder of The Stave & Bean Coffee Co. This episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Find the time and the moments in between. Find them with us in the Off Hours. Find out more about Off Hours Bourbon on their website. Follow John on Instagram @bourbon_colonel86.

Jun 29, 2022 • 33:02

181: Planning Your Next Bourbon-Centric Trip to Louisville

Are you looking to plan your next weekend trip?  Check out all Louisville has to offer in this "Travel To-Do List" episode of Bourbon Lens. Jake discusses ideas for your next bourbon-centric trip to Kentucky. You are guaranteed to find some places you’ll love in this episode. Be sure to let us know your favorite tourist destinations in Louisville. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported

Jun 27, 2022 • 16:53

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Episode 3: Bob Cutler

Episode 3 of “Off Hours with Bourbon Lens” features a long-time supporter of Bourbon Lens; Bob Cutler from Novio's Bistro in Bangor Maine.  We are honored to have the support of Bob and his team at Novio's Bistro over the years and it's our privilege to have Bob as one of our guests on this podcast mini-series. As always, this episode is brought to you by Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours Bourbon is made for the moments in between. After a long week or just because. Find the time and the moments in b

Jun 22, 2022 • 36:07

180: What's Buzzing with Buzzard's Roost Bourbon & Rye Whiskey

Jason Brauner, Co-Founder of Buzzard’s Roost Sippin’ Whiskey rejoins the Bourbon Lens to talk about some of their latest releases.  This includes one of the more unique finished whiskies we’ve tried this year, Cigar Rye. As you’ll hear, they take their process seriously and believe that's what makes their bourbon and rye truly spectacular. Buzzard's Roost uses only brand new, 53-gallon white oak barrels that are carefully toasted and very lightly charred. Each barrel is designed from the ground

Jun 19, 2022 • 55:18

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Episode 2: The Daily Dram

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

Jun 15, 2022 • 30:15

179: The Ultimate Bourbon-Loving Father's Day Gift Guide

Jake and Scott celebrate all the Father’s in this episode.  Catch up with the guys and hear our suggestions for some great Father’s Day gifts for the bourbon-loving dads in your life.  What has been your best Father’s Day gift to give or receive?  Be sure to drop us a line and let us know! Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   This episode of the Bourbon Lens is brought to you by ​MANSCAPED™​, who is proving themselves to be the be

Jun 12, 2022 • 33:45

Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Episode 1: Jake Ireland

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

Jun 8, 2022 • 28:06

178: Sneak Preview of 3 New Releases from High Bank Distillery

Jake sits down with 3 soon-to-release offerings from Ohio’s High Bank Distillery. High Bank just announced three new  barrel selects which are releasing  Friday, June 10th at 11AM. The release features: Whiskey War Barrel Select - 2ND AGED SANGIOVESE Batch #7 - 120 proof Our classic rye-heavy mash bill that has been second aged in the original Barrel Select batch #1 high-end Sangiovese wine cask for 27 months (total age of 5 years). Statehouse Gin Barrel Select - WHISKEY WAR CABERNET Batch #

Jun 6, 2022 • 30:34

177: The Bourbon Behind the Butterfly with Blue Run Spirits

Blue Run has experienced a lot of growth and success in the time since we last spoke with them on Episode 115.  Their recognizable bottle and butterfly branding has helped propel their premium whiskies to the top shelf of many enthusiasts' bars.  We catch up with Mike Montgomery and one of their newest team members, Shaylyn Gammon, to discuss the brand’s current position in the market and how they expect to continue to push the premium American Whiskey world.   Stream this episode on your favori

May 30, 2022 • 48:27

176: Catching Up With Bourbon Lens & Whiskey Samples

Jake and Scott pour up a variety of whiskies as they attempt to organize their liquor cabinets. Big shoutout to all the brands who allow us the opportunities to taste a wide range of whiskey and bourbon.   This episode of the Bourbon Lens is brought to you by ​MANSCAPED™​, who is proving themselves to be the best in men’s below-the-waist grooming. ​Their products are precision-engineered tools and are designed specifically for maintaining and taking care of your family jewels. MANSCAPED’s™ Perfo

May 22, 2022 • 44:44

175: The Whiskey Lover’s Guide to Barrel-Aged Gin

Stepping into the broader spirits world, we’re looking at some whiskey-adjacent spirits today. We are sipping 4 different barrel-aged gins from a wide variety of distilleries.  Is the gin world ripe for the whiskey lover?  Tune in to find out. This episode of the Bourbon Lens is brought to you by ​MANSCAPED™​, who is proving themselves to be the best in men’s below-the-waist grooming. ​Their products are precision-engineered tools and are designed specifically for maintaining and taking care of

May 15, 2022 • 32:24

174: Jack Daniel's Launches New Bottled in Bond Whiskies

Jack Daniel’s just launched two new bottled in bond whiskies and Bourbon Lens is among the first to try them.  Among the two new releases, a Bonded Tennessee Whiskey and a Triple Mash Blended Straight Whiskey.  One of the most recognizable, traditional American Whiskey distilleries has really stepped up their whiskey releases beyond Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey and we discuss how these new Bottled in Bond offerings fit into their portfolio. Interestingly, this may be the first time that the Kentu

May 8, 2022 • 27:33

173: Bourbon and Blockchain with Party Horses NFT

They’re taking the bourbon craze into the world of crypto, blockchain, and NFT. Party Horses joins Bourbon Lens to demystify the NFT (non-fungible token) and discuss how the bourbon community can embrace the blockchain to gain exclusive access to rare bottles and once in a lifetime events.  Party Horses co-founder Chris Wiedmar is our guest for this week’s episode.  Party Horses is a collection of 3.2k NFTs on the Ethereum Mainnet. Their vision is to create a future where NFTs create access and

May 1, 2022 • 41:31

172: The Bourbon and Seltzer Crazes Collide - The Local Seltzery NULU

The Bourbon Lens is traveling to some Louisville hotspots over the next few months and we are stopping in one of the newest spots in NuLu (New Louisville). This week we are at The Local Seltzery as we gear up for Derby Week. This Seltzery is a high tech mixology bar which leverages unique natural flavors with booze and carbonated water to craft hard seltzers.  And, just in time for Derby, they’ve added a Bourbon Mint Julep Seltzer to their lineup.  We sit down with The Local Seltzery’s General M

Apr 25, 2022 • 40:45

171: Building a Bourbon Brand with More Than a "Puncher's Chance"

“IT’S (BOURBON) TIME!” with Bruce Buffer and Umberto Luchini as we talk about their brand Puncher’s Chance Bourbon and its two current offerings.  If you don’t know Bruce Buffer, you likely know his voice and his iconic trademarked introduction; “IT’S TIME!”®. He’s the official Voice of the Octagon for the UFC and he is putting his name and reputation behind this bourbon brand that he loves so much.  We are also joined by the brand’s founder, Umberto Luchini.  He’s an Italian with tons of experi

Apr 18, 2022 • 46:37

170: How Michter's Distillery is Driving the Resurgence of Rye Whiskey

We are on location at the Michter’s Distillery in Shively (Louisville) Kentucky for this episode.  We sit down with Dan McKee and Andrea Wilson and share an incredible rye whiskey flight as we discuss the brand, its origin, and its growth into the future.  We discuss Dan’s role as Master Distiller and Andrea’s as Master of Maturation as we enjoy this flight of a single barrel Rye, a 10 Year Rye, Barrel Strength Rye, and Toasted Barrel Strength Rye Whiskey. Download this episode on your favorite

Apr 10, 2022 • 1:13:12

169: Don't Miss Your Chance at This Frey Ranch Single Barrel Bourbon

In conjunction with the release of this podcast, we are launching our very first Single Barrel of Frey Ranch Distillery’s Four Grain Bourbon. This is a 5 year, 4 grain, 129.36 proof, grain-to-glass Nevada Bourbon that was hand selected with the Bourbon Lens team and the owners, Colby and Ashley Frey.  It is available now through our online retailer, SharedPour.com, and shipping to nearly 40 states.   The guys are joined by Colby and Ashley Frey to discuss this single barrel pick, to catch up o

Apr 4, 2022 • 40:11

168: Exploring the World of Japanese Whisky with The Daily Dram

We are venturing away from American Whiskey in an effort to expand our palates and appreciation for single malt whisky. Brandon from @TheDailyDram on Instagram stops in with a flight of Japanese Whiskies, including some of his favorites, Hakushu 12 Year and Yamasaki 18 Year. Brandon teaches us a little about the history of whisky in Japan as well as the terroir and regional styles of Japanese Whisky. Have you tried Japanese Whisky before? Be sure to let us know your favorites and thoughts about

Mar 28, 2022 • 1:16:26

167: Exploring Pennsylvania Rye with Dad's Hat Whiskey

Our guest this week is Herman C. Mihalich, Founder and Distiller of  Dad's Hat Rye Whiskey at Mountain Laurel Spirits, LLC in Pennsylvania. Find out what makes Pennsylvania Rye different and how Pennsylvania contributed to the birth and rise of the earliest American Whiskies.  Download this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd app

Mar 20, 2022 • 53:06

166: St. Patrick's Day with J.J. Corry Irish Whiskey

We’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day and Irish Whiskey all week and we are kicking it off with J.J. Corry Irish Whiskey. We are joined by Louise McGuane, Founder and Whiskey Bonder of J.J. Corry. You’ll learn a little history of Irish Whiskey, Louise’s efforts to revive the practice of Whiskey Bonding, and J.J. Corry’s extensive whiskey and barrel inventory for future releases.  And, as a bonus for our Kentucky Bourbon fans, we taste through the latest release from Kentucky Owl. Kentucky Owl and

Mar 13, 2022 • 55:35

165: Two Whiskey Legends Collaborate To Create Unique Kentucky Bourbon: Legent

The American Whiskey Ambassador for the James B. Beam Distilling Company joins Bourbon Lens today to talk about all things Beam and we enjoy some pours of Legent Bourbon with Beth Burrows. We discuss the origin story of this unique finished Kentucky Bourbon which we’ve not tasted since way back in episode 11 of the Bourbon Lens.  It’s been a while since that episode and we were excited to be re-introduced to Legent which may have been slightly ahead of its time nearly 3 years ago.   Download thi

Mar 7, 2022 • 44:39

164: Crafting a Five Bottle Whiskey Bar with One Distillery

The guys challenge each other to create a diverse whiskey bar but only using one Distillery. Find out which Distillery each of us select and our logic behind the choice. And one of us maybe gets a little too creative with their choice.  Does it follow the rules?  Let us know which Distillery you’d pick to craft the perfect “Five Bottle Whiskey Bar”.  Download this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has conti

Feb 28, 2022 • 36:29

163: Exploring New York Rye Whiskey with Fort Hamilton Distillery

We’re discussing New York Rye Whiskey this week with Alex Clark, Founder of Fort Hamilton Distillery in Brooklyn. We taste through 4 offerings from Fort Hamilton, including Single Barrel Rye, Double Barrel Rye, Double Barrel Bourbon, and a private selection of Rye.  We enjoyed chatting with Alex about his background in the cocktail world and what drove him to start a rye whiskey distillery in New York.  If you are looking for a new rye whiskey, grab a bottle of Fort Hamilton. Download this episo

Feb 21, 2022 • 1:24:16

162: Inside The Bourbon Room at the World Famous Churchill Downs

The world famous Churchill Downs is home to Matt Winn’s Steakhouse and we were invited to a one-of-a-kind bourbon experience inside its jaw-dropping "The Bourbon Room". Tim Knittel is the Official Bourbon Ambassador of Churchill Downs and has curated a tasting and dining experience for us as we sit down to record at the historic racetrack. We taste through a flight of private selection bourbons from the restaurant’s impressive bourbon inventory. We hope you enjoy this podcast as we discuss histo

Feb 14, 2022 • 1:15:31

161: Mashbill Matchup - Blanton's Bourbon vs E.H. Taylor Single Barrel

Buffalo Trace’s mashbills #1 and #2 go head-to-head in this week’s episode. We taste two solid single barrels; Blanton’s and E.H. Taylor Single Barrel. Find out our thoughts on the house styles of Buffalo Trace Distillery and two hard to get bottles of bourbon.  Download this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has continued to support us. We must give a huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well!

Feb 7, 2022 • 26:37

160: Are These the Best 12 Year Old Barrel Proof Bourbons?

We’re heating things up with 3 barrel proof bourbons that each are a dozen years old. We also discuss storing opened bottles long term and the bourbon and American Whiskey export market. Knob Creek 12 Year Cask Strength goes up against Elijah Craig Barrel Proof and Lux Row’s Limited Edition 12 Year Double Barrel. How do they stack up?  Download this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   Image Credit: Lux Row Distillers We are thankful for ever

Jan 31, 2022 • 36:58

159: Is Bottled in Bond Important to the Modern Bourbon Drinker?

We’re discussing Bottled in Bond bourbon this week, including whether this designation is still important in today’s whiskey world. Whether the distillery is a major producer or a craft whiskey maker, the reasons for labeling their spirits as “bonded” will differ. But is this important for the consumer?  We also line up 3 Bottled in Bond Kentucky Bourbons from some of the larger producers in the state.  How do they hold up in a blind tasting and which is our favorite? Download this episode on yo

Jan 24, 2022 • 35:11

158: The Top Double Oaked Bourbon to Buy Right Now

We're exploring 3 Double Oaked Bourbons this week, including Peerless, Woodford Reserve, and Starlight Distillery. We discuss the purpose of double oaking and why we believe that it elevates a bourbon to new levels.  How do these three double oaked bourbons stack up? Be sure to let us know which double oaked bourbons we missed in this episode.  Do you have a favorite Double Oaked Bourbon? Download this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We

Jan 17, 2022 • 30:00

157: The Top Whiskey Trends and Brands to Watch in 2022

We’re back together and discussing the top trends in whiskey that we are expecting for 2022 and beyond. We also discuss some trends that we wish would fizzle out and die. And finally, we have some thoughts on some distilleries and brands you should be watching for in 2022. Download this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.   We are thankful for everyone who has continued to support us. We must give a huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Communi

Jan 10, 2022 • 41:04

156: Barrel Proof Bourbons from Buffalo Trace Distillery

The gang’s all here and we’ve cracked open two heavy hitting, barrel proof bourbons from Buffalo Trace Distillery. We compare two Mashbill #1 Bourbons, including Stagg Jr (Batch 13: Fall, 2019 – 128.4 proof) and EH Taylor Barrel Proof (Batch 10; 2021,  127.3 proof). These bottles have skyrocketed in secondary marketplaces and have become rare sights on store shelves, but are they worth the price?   Show Links: EH Taylor, Jr. Barrel Proof Stagg Jr. Colonel EH Taylor Jr Barrel Proof Releases

Jan 3, 2022 • 32:58

155: Westward Whiskey: Brewing and Distilling American Single Malt

Our guest this week is Miles Munroe, Lead Distiller for Westward Whiskey. Westward is reimagining Single Malt and adding an American Whiskey spin to elevate the category. American Single Malt Whiskey is a growing category and Westward is one to lead the charge as the United States moves towards well-defined standards of identity for the category. Miles brings a brewer’s mentality to whiskey-making and goes above and beyond to craft high quality whiskies in Portland Oregon. Download this episode

Dec 27, 2021 • 1:02:52

154: Top Whiskies to Gift this Christmas Under $75

With Christmas right around the corner, we know there will be a few bottles of whiskey under the Christmas Tree this year. If you are playing Santa for your whiskey-loving friends & family, we have some great gift bottles you should check out.   Whether it’s a classic bourbon, something with some fancy packaging, or some whiskey that might be a little out of the norm, you’re sure to find a bottle on our list that someone will love.   Download this episode on your favorite podcast player by click

Dec 20, 2021 • 22:08

153: Meet Brian Nation, O’Shaughnessy Distilling's Irish Master Distiller

An American distillery with Irish heritage in its veins, O’Shaughnessy Distilling Company has engaged a modern legendary distiller of  Irish Whiskey to grow a product line which embraces the best of both whiskey worlds. Combining a classic American Rye with two Irish Whiskies, Master Distiller Brian Nation is looking to put Minnesota on the world whiskey map. The O’Shaughnessy Family convinced Brian to leave an established and world-renowned Irish distillery to perfect his own passion project.

Dec 13, 2021 • 48:47

152: Wheated Bourbon of the West with Wyoming Whiskey

Our guest this week is David DeFazio, co-founder of Wyoming Whiskey. We discuss building a distillery on a ranch and making whiskey in Wyoming. David is a former lawyer turned whiskey maker and has a wealth of experience in working hard, solving problems, and crafting whiskey. We also want to give a huge shoutout to Bob Cutler of Novio’s Bistro in Bangor Maine for connecting us with Wyoming Whiskey.  He’s a long-time supporter of the show and of Wyoming Whiskey and we are so excited that we were

Dec 6, 2021 • 1:02:39

151: Talnua Distillery's Unique American Single Pot Still Whiskey

Our guests this week are the founders of Talnua Distillery in Arvada Colorado. Patrick and Meagan Miller fell in love with the traditionally Irish, Single Pot Still Whiskey on a honeymoon trip to Ireland. They aimed to recreate the style of whiskey featuring malted and unmalted barley, but with an American twist. Talnua created the first Single Pot Still distillery outside of Ireland. They wanted to bring this style of whiskey to America and imbue it with the nation's terroir while  honoring Gae

Nov 29, 2021 • 1:09:54

150: Celebrating a Milestone with Four Roses Limited Edition Bourbon

We’re celebrating 150 episodes of the Bourbon Lens with some very special bourbons. We appreciate each and every one of our supporters, listeners, fans, and friends. Without you, we wouldn’t have the drive to continue producing the bourbon and whiskey content that we do. Cheers to you! And here’s to 150 more!  In this episode, Jake and Scott have a blind lineup of the last 3 Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch releases.  Which will come out on top? Which year is your favorite?  Our 3 Glasses

Nov 22, 2021 • 33:57

149: Luca Mariano - Kentucky Bourbon with Italian Flair

It’s the whiskey brand with an Italian name and they’re looking to make their mark in the world of Kentucky Bourbon. We are joined by Luca Mariano Distillery this week to talk about starting a bourbon brand, finding a home for your distillery, and growing brand awareness. Jennifer Brandt and Kenny Fuller are our guests this week as we taste through the full lineup Luca Mariano whiskey in downtown Louisville.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout to our Patreon Commu

Nov 15, 2021 • 39:58

148: Veterans Day Special with Horse Soldier Bourbon

In a special Veterans Day episode, we are joined by retired, Special Forces Veteran Scott Neil who is the co-founder of Horse Soldier Bourbon. Horse Soldier, was co-founded by the horse-mounted Green Berets who lead America’s counter-terrorism effort in Afghanistan almost immediately following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Scott Neil has an incredible story, a warrior’s mindset, and a soldier’s determination with everything he does, including his current mission: growing a bourbon brand.  A huge t

Nov 8, 2021 • 1:15:41

147: A Decade of Craft Whiskey at FEW Spirits

A grain-to-glass distillery since 2011, FEW Spirits produces craft whiskey in a tucked away alley located in the Chicago suburb of Evanston, IL.  A historical town where Prohibition lasted until 1972, Founder & Master Distiller Paul Hletko changed the future of Evanston when he opened FEW Spirits Distillery, the first (legal) alcohol-production facility of any kind to ever open there.   We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! W

Oct 31, 2021 • 53:52

146: Purposefully Inefficient - How Maker's Mark Became an Iconic Kentucky Bourbon

Rob Samuels is our guest this week and we are honored to have this 8th generation of whisky-maker on our podcast.  The Samuels family has long been known for founding Maker’s Mark Distillery in Loretto Kentucky. Rob is the Managing Director of Maker’s Mark and is a passionate story-teller ensuring his family’s history is told to the masses.  Rob knows that Maker’s Mark is the result of a “purposefully inefficient handmade process” but recognizes the importance of it to his family, their legacy,

Oct 24, 2021 • 50:25

145: A Whiskey Adventure to the Mountains of Colorado with Boulder Spirits

We are joined by Alastair Brogan, Founder and Owner, and Ryan Negley, Lead Ambassador and Whiskey Fellow for Boulder Spirits by Vapor Distillery. We learn about the Scottish influence that Alastair brought to Colorado and American Single Malt while still finding a unique niche in the American Whiskey Category, including their high-malt bourbons. Boulder Spirits features the largest pot still in the state of Colorado which adds an impressive layer of complexity to their whiskies as does their usa

Oct 17, 2021 • 1:06:08

144: Metallica's Blackened American Whiskey: Rob Dietrich's Journey From Stagehand to Master Distiller

Taking a break from the metal and rock music at Louisville's Louder Than Life music festival, Rob Dietrich joins the Bourbon Lens to talk whiskey.  Rob Dietrich is Master Distiller for Blackened American Whiskey and has taken over their reins from the late Dave Pickerell. Rob is a talented distiller (formerly of Colorado's Stranahan's) and even has a history of working in the music industry, so landing with Metallica's Blackened brand is a natural fit for him. You'll hear a lot about Rob's philo

Oct 10, 2021 • 38:01

143: Widow Jane Distillery - Lisa Wicker Brings Wine Expertise to Bourbon

We are joined by Widow Jane Distillery President and Head Distiller & Blender, Lisa Wicker. Her fingerprints have been left in many distilleries over the years and she’s landed in her new home away from Kentucky, Widow Jane Distillery in Red Hook, Brooklyn, NY. We discuss two different bourbons with Lisa Wicker, including Widow Jane 10 Year (5 barrels, 6+ years, small batch, 91 proof) and Lucky Thirteen Bourbon (small batch, less than 10 barrels, 93 proof). You’ll hear about Lisa’s time in the w

Oct 3, 2021 • 1:06:55

142: What is Driving the Texas Whiskey Boom?

Texas Whiskey is a growing category looking to make its mark in the world of American Whiskey and Kentucky Bourbon. We’re joined by Nico Martini, who just published his book Texas Whiskey, an ever-evolving chronicle and guidebook of the “history” and people of Texas Whiskey. Nico is also co-founder of Grayson Whiskey, author of Texas Cocktails, and a lover of all things Texas. Grayson Whiskey is a blend of Texas bourbon and wheat whiskies and just hit the shelves only a few months ago after a su

Sep 26, 2021 • 59:46

141: Jim Beam Small Batch Collection and Basil Hayden Bourbon

We are joined by Tim Heuisler, American Whiskey Ambassador for Beam Suntory, to discuss the Jim Beam Small Batch Collection of Whiskey.  We taste through the lineup of Basil Hayden and talk about all things Beam. A big thanks to Beam Suntory for allowing us to try the lineup. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as well! We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider

Sep 20, 2021 • 51:49

140: These Are "Must Buy" Decade Old Kentucky Bourbons

Jake and Scott sit back down in the Office and blind taste two 10 year old Kentucky Bourbons. This week, we’ve cracked open a bottle of Russell’s Reserve 10 Year from Wild Turkey and Eagle Rare from Buffalo Trace Distillery.  How do they match up?  Are these great value bourbons for their age?  We discuss this and more on this week’s episode.  What is your favorite 10 year age-stated bourbon? We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A huge shoutout to our growing Patreon Community as w

Sep 12, 2021 • 38:51

139: Kicking Off Bourbon Heritage Month with Old Forester 117 Series

Jackie Zykan, Master Taster for Old Forester, is back on the Bourbon Lens Podcast.  This time, we talk about the unique, new offering from her 117 Series; Warehouse K Barrels.  We discuss the various warehouses of Old Forester and what makes some of them unique and different; including the spiders of Warehouse K.  A true bourbon nerd is going to love the insight Jackie provides in this episode.  We discuss the construction of various warehouses, heat cycling warehouses, finding the perfect balan

Sep 5, 2021 • 44:54

138: Is E.H. Taylor Bourbon Worth the Hype, Hunt, & Cost?

The E.H. Taylor series of bourbon and rye whiskey has gained a huge following and has become harder and harder to locate. Is all the hype warranted? Scott and Jake sit down with E.H. Taylor Small Batch Bourbon, Single Barrel Bourbon, and Straight Rye and compare tasting notes. We also discuss the upcoming Bourbon Festival in Bardstown, September 17 - 19th. Bourbon Lens will be there, on Press Row, amongst some legends of the Bourbon industry.  We are thankful for everyone who has supported us. A

Aug 29, 2021 • 42:45

137: Smashing Barrels with Broken Barrel Whiskey Company

Jake heads down to Owensboro Kentucky to smash some barrels with the crew from Broken Barrel Whiskey Co. He sits down with Founder Seth Benhaim to discuss the brand’s re-introduction to the market, donning new packaging and seeing great growth since we last visited with Seth.  Check out Episode 49 (link below) for our first episode with Seth way back in December 2019. They spend the episode tasting through the core lineup of Broken Barrel Whiskies, which is sure to include something for everyone

Aug 22, 2021 • 46:04

136: Modernizing the Whiskey Market with Off Hours Bourbon

We have another special guest this week, Jake Ireland, founder and entrepreneur behind Off Hours Bourbon. Off Hours is a lifestyle brand of bourbon, aimed at giving you some of the best whiskey for those moments when you kick back and relax. Launched in 2020, some might say this brand came along at just the right time; the perfect time for a little “Off Hours” bourbon.  This bourbon is distilled and aged at MGP in Lawrenceburg Indiana; near and dear to Jake Ireland being his hometown.  It’s over

Aug 15, 2021 • 42:25

135: Training for World's Top Whiskey Taster with Bardstown Bourbon Co.

Do Scott and Jake have what it takes to be the “World's Top Whiskey Taster”? We traveled to the Bourbon Capital on the World to hang out with some of the crew from Bardstown Bourbon Company. We are joined by Brandon and Sam to discuss the distillery's upcoming products and the World’s Top Whiskey Taster Competition. We even get a little test of our own as we sample and analyze 3 whiskey samples in a blind tasting. Listen in to hear how Jake and Scott fared in our own Top Whiskey Taster competiti

Aug 9, 2021 • 1:06:23

134: Blind Tasting Bottled in Bond Bourbons from Heaven Hill

Long overdue, we sit down with 3 bottles of Bottled in Bond bourbons from Heaven Hill. These bottles share the same mashbill and proof, but run the gamut of age and price. A blind tasting is the best way to see how they stack up. Enjoy this week’s episode and be sure to let us know your favorite bourbon from Heaven Hill.  Here’s the lineup: Glass 1 - Henry McKenna 10 Year Old Single Barrel Bottled in Bond Glass 2 - Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond 7 Year Glass 3 - J.T.S Brown Bottled in Bond Jake’

Aug 2, 2021 • 33:12

133: Whiskey with a Side of History - Kentucky Senator Bourbon

Jake and Scott are back in “the office” and we are sharing some Kentucky Senator Bourbon. Kentucky Senator is a revived brand and each release of Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey will carry the name of an esteemed U.S. Senator from the Bluegrass State. We taste their first two releases, including a 15 year and a 6 year Kentucky Straight Bourbon. We discuss many topics in this episode including sourcing whiskey, celebrity brands, the premium bourbon market, and whether we view whiskey as a good

Jul 26, 2021 • 32:29

132: Our Top Picks for $50 - $100 Bourbons

These days, it’s really easy to spend $100 on a bottle of bourbon, but how do you avoid getting burned at the liquor store? Stick with some of our choices for the $50 - $100 price range and you’ll find some heavy hitting bourbons. Don’t get burned at the liquor store, shop smart with these tips. We are thankful for everyone who has supported us over this journey. We'd appreciate it if you can take the time to give us feedback on our podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star

Jul 19, 2021 • 47:22

131: Castle & Key Restoration Rye Batch 1 of 2021

Castle & Key just released its 3rd installment of Restoration Rye, 2021 Batch #1. This batch was crafted from 80 barrels and was meant to highlight some notes that are perfect for summer whiskey drinking.  We compare this 2021 release to Batch 1 from 2020 in this episode.  Each batch of Restoration Rye Whiskey is blended using a series of pods. Each pod is created by grouping barrels to create a specific sensory profile. Restoration Rye features a mashbill of 63% Rye; 20% Malted Barley; 17% Yell

Jul 12, 2021 • 31:49

130: Wheated Bourbon Battle: Old Fitzgerald & Larceny Barrel Proof

Jake and Scott are back in the Bourbon Lens office and have lined up two powerhouse bottles from Heaven Hill’s wheated mashbill; Old Fitzgerald Bottled in Bond (a 9 year from Fall 2018) and Larcey Barrel Proof (Batch A121 featuring 6-8 year old bourbon). It is clear that wheated bourbons are a big hit in the bourbon world right now, partially attributable to the Pappy Van Winkle and Weller Bourbon craze.  But does Heaven Hill have some of the best wheated bourbons out right now? Hear our thought

Jul 6, 2021 • 29:35

129: Our Top Picks for Drinking Whiskey in the Summer Heat

You won’t find us reaching for the barrel proof bourbons often in the summer heat, so what do we reach for when the temperature rises? In this week’s episode, we discuss some of our favorite choices when summertime rolls around and we want to enjoy our favorite booze outside or poolside. Whether it’s low proof, on the rocks, finished whiskey, or the ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktail craze, we give you some ideas for this summer.  Let us know what you reach for as the weather warms up! Shoutout to Ji

Jun 28, 2021 • 31:34

128: Sam Houston's 15 Year Old Kentucky Bourbon Release 6

Recently, we had the opportunity to sample 6 single barrels from Western Spirits Beverage Company; you may remember our previous episode. This was all in preparation for their upcoming release of Sam Houston Bourbon Release No. 6. We were honored to be selected, along with several other “bourbon influencers”, to help provide feedback that would contribute to a final batch for Release No. 6, a 15 year old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.  The Release is now on shelves and we were sent bottles

Jun 21, 2021 • 29:29

127: Stellum Spirits - Discussing the Modern Whiskey Drinker with Will Schragis, Chief Innovation Officer

It’s National Bourbon Day and we are having a brand new bourbon this week. Will Schragis, Stellum Spirits’ Chief Sales & Innovation Officer, joins Bourbon Lens to chat about all things Stellum, whiskey industry, and the modern whiskey drinker. A wildly popular blending house, Barrell Craft Spirits, just created a more affordable spinoff brand (at $55, Will says it’s the best whiskey for the price on the market).  New from the team at Barrell, it’s Stellum Rye and Bourbon.  We are thankful for ev

Jun 14, 2021 • 59:12

126: First Ever Bourbon Lens Barrel Pick - Starlight Sauternes Finished Bourbon

Our first Bourbon Lens Barrel Pick is now available for purchase! Jake and Scott sit down in the Bourbon Lens Office to taste through the unique finished bourbon we picked from Starlight Distillery.  This is a 4 ½ Year Old, Straight Bourbon distilled by Starlight and finished in a French, Sauternes Wine Cask.  The bourbon is available for purchase via Shared Pour for $59.99.  Be sure to head there to get yours before it sells out: SharedPour.com.   We are thankful for everyone who has supporte

Jun 7, 2021 • 30:08

125: Tasting Through A Unique Lineup of Bulleit Bourbon

Jake and Scott catch up about life and bourbon as they sip through 3 different Bulleit Bourbons. Scott recently had the opportunity to help a local store, Bottles Unlimited in New Albany, IN select a barrel of 11 year old Bulleit. And thanks to some help from Bottles Unlimited, we were able to secure two more limited bottlings of Bulleit to taste them side-by-side with this 11 year old store pick called “Quarantine Breakout”. The barrel is available now at Bottles Unlimited and we recommend you

Jun 1, 2021 • 35:55

124: Reviving the Dant Family Name in Bourbon History - Log Still Opens Kentucky’s Newest Distillery

It’s Kentucky’s newest distillery; Log Still Distillery is located in Gethsemane (just outside of Bardstown in Southern Nelson County). We toured the 300-acre “Dant Crossing” property with Founder and President, Wally Dant.  Wally, along with his family, Lynne and Charles Dant, are taking on this large project to create a “destination distillery” that is perfect for the whole family. Wally discussed the Dant family history in Nelson County and his efforts to revive the family name in the World o

May 24, 2021 • 54:08

123: Craft Distillery Head-to-Head - “Double Oaked” Rye Whiskey from Kentucky Peerless & Starlight Distillery

Two heavy-hitting craft distilleries go head-to-head as Scott and Jake discuss their spin on Double Oaked Rye Whiskey. There’s no question that the Bourbon Lens is a big fan of these two craft distilleries; Starlight and Peerless. We were excited to have the chance to compare their unique rye whiskies. Here’s the “Tale of the Tape”: Peerless “Double Oak I” Single Barrel Rye Whiskey: Proof: 109.4 Age: Undisclosed (estimated 3-5 years) Price: $32 / 200 mL (Distillery Only: Purchase here) Mashbil

May 17, 2021 • 29:19

122: Drinking Founder’s Collection Whiskey with the Rabbit Hole Distillery Founder Himself

Thank you to Rabbit Hole Distillery for the opportunity to sit down with Founder, Kaveh Zamanian, to discuss his Founder’s Collection series and the history of the distillery. We sipped an ultra limited, ultra premium 15 year old Mizunara Cask Finished Bourbon as well as the original Founder’s Collection bottling of Cask Strength, 6 year old Boxergrail Rye Whiskey. We also discussed some exciting upcoming plans for the distillery, including Heigold Bourbon Single Barrel Picks - coming in June an

May 10, 2021 • 48:56

121: Sam Houston Bourbon - Our Tasting of 15 Year Old Kentucky Bourbons for the Latest Batch

It’s no secret that there are some incredible 15 year old Kentucky Bourbons hitting shelves over the last year. Recently, we had the opportunity to sample 6 excellent single barrels from Western Spirits Beverage Company; all in preparation for their upcoming release of Sam Houston Bourbon Batch 6. We were honored to be selected, along with several other “bourbon influencers”, to help provide feedback on a specialized tasting kit of 6 unique barrels. Our feedback will help Western Spirits Beverag

May 3, 2021 • 34:17

120: The Craft of Colorado Whiskey with Distillery 291 - Rugged, Refined, Rebellious

This week’s guest is Michael Myers, Founder of Distillery 291 in Colorado.  Michael left his career in fashion photography to start a distillery in Colorado and never looked back.  We taste through several of their bourbons and ryes in this week’s episode and experience their unique aspen stave finished whiskey.   We are thankful for everyone who has taken the time to give us feedback on our podcast.  If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app, leav

Apr 26, 2021 • 54:54

119: Sneak Preview of the Newest Releases from Old Carter Whiskey Company

Old Carter Whiskey Co. has six new batches of whiskey on the horizon and we were fortunate enough to taste through each with Founders, Mark and Sherri Carter. The Carters invited Bourbon Lens to their tasting room in Downtown Louisville for an early look at Batches 7, 8, 9, and 10 of their latest bourbons and Batches 5 & 6  of the American Whiskey. Each batch is bottled at barrel strength and comes packed with a ton of flavor. Enjoy this week’s episode, a sneak peek of the upcoming releases from

Apr 19, 2021 • 1:31:54

118: Virginia Craft Bourbon at A. Smith Bowman Distillery

Our guest this week is Brian Prewitt, Master Distiller for A. Smith Bowman Distillery in Virginia.  We discuss the history of the distillery, Brian's background in the beer, wine and spirits industries, and the variety of bourbons that the distillery releases.  We also taste through John J. Bowman Single Barrel Bourbon and Bowman Brother Small Batch Bourbon. We are thankful for everyone who has taken the time to give us feedback on our podcast.  If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 s

Apr 12, 2021 • 40:02

117: Talking Whiskey with Singer-Songwriter Drew Holcomb

We’re joined by singer-songwriter Drew Holcomb. Drew talks about his career as musician, his band Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors, his involvement in Sweetens Cove Bourbon, and his life as a husband and father in today’s world. Sweetens Cove allows Drew to combine his love for whiskey (and whisky), Tennessee pride, and the resurrection of a golf course. You’ve heard about Sweetens Cove previously on Bourbon Lens Episode 85 featuring Marianne Eaves, the Master Blender behind the bourbon. We apprec

Apr 5, 2021 • 52:15

116: Sippin' Whiskey with Jason Brauner & Buzzard's Roost

We sit down with Jason Brauner and some "Sippin' Whiskey" at Bourbon's Bistro in Louisville.  We discuss Jason’s experiences in the bourbon world, owning a highly regarded restaurant with an extensive selection of bourbon, and owning his own Whiskey brand.  Buzzard’s Roost Sippin’ Whiskey is a brand that relies on Jason’s palate and experience to craft unique barrel finished (double barreled) rye whiskey.  We are thankful for everyone who has taken the time to give us feedback on our podcast.  I

Mar 29, 2021 • 1:04:23

115: Blue Run Spirits - Tapping A Legend of the Bourbon World

We are joined by the co-founders of Blue Run Spirits to talk about their new, premium Kentucky Bourbon. Their first batches released in late 2020 - early 2021, each a 13 year old sourced Kentucky Bourbon.  Mike Montgomery and Jesse McKnight are the co-founders and have created a unique and diverse team to help grown this brand. Blue Run Bourbon was selected and blended with the assistance and expertise of Jim Rutledge, former Master Distiller of Four Roses. Blue Run has exciting plans for future

Mar 22, 2021 • 44:44

114: Exciting Changes for 2021 Kentucky Bourbon Festival

2021 marks the 30th Anniversary of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival in Bardstown. This year aims to be better than ever. We are joined by Randy Prasse, Bourbon Festival President, to unveil some big changes for 2021.  Learn about the new events, general admission tickets, once in a lifetime bourbon tasting opportunities, and the immersive bourbon experiences planned for 2021. Mark your calendars for September 16-19, 2021. General Admission Tickets go on sale on at 11:00 am ET - March 15th, 2021 - C

Mar 15, 2021 • 55:56

113: Visiting Barton 1792 with Master Distiller Danny Kahn

On this episode, we sit down with the Master Distiller of Barton 1792.  Danny Kahn is a wealth of knowledge in the distilling and brewing industries and we were fortunate enough to be invited to the distillery. We started our morning off with some of Barton's newest releases, Thomas S. Moore cask finished bourbons.  And after the podcast, we selected our very first Bourbon Lens single barrel pick, a Full Proof 1792 Bourbon.  You aren't going to want to miss this release when it hits SharedPour.c

Mar 8, 2021 • 36:37

112: Our Top Craft Whiskey Distilleries

If you’ve listened to the Bourbon Lens podcast over the last two years, you’ve heard from some of our favorite craft bourbon and whiskey distilleries, blenders, and brands. In this episode, we discuss some of our standout craft distillers and brands that we are excited for in 2021 and beyond. As always, we'd love your feedback and hearing what distilleries are your favorite Craft Whiskey producers. We may even feature them on the Bourbon Lens in the future! We appreciate everyone who has taken t

Mar 1, 2021 • 35:48

111: Stocking the Best Whiskey Bar for $50

How many “best of” lists have you read and laughed to yourself? We are putting our own spin on things and have challenged each other to start a new home whiskey bar for $50. Will we grab one expensive bottle and max out our limited budget? Or try to squeeze in two or three solid budget bottles?  Scott and Jake may have different philosophies on buying whiskey, but they had a great time comparing notes and choices in this week’s podcast.   What strategy would you use to buy yourself or a friend s

Feb 22, 2021 • 34:28

110: RY3 Whiskey - Rum Cask Finished Rye Whiskey

Combining a passion for spirits, industry knowledge, and blending expertise, Phenomenal Spirits has released its first whiskey. RY3 Whiskey (Pronounced “Rye 3 Whiskey”) is a rum cask finished whiskey that was carefully crafted from this blending house. Phenomenal Spirits, Karthik Sudhir and Matt Witzig, joins Bourbon Lens to talk whiskey. Karthik is the Founder / CEO of Phenomenal Spirits and drives product development, strategy, brand positioning, market expansion, and investor relations. Matt

Feb 15, 2021 • 51:37

109: Nelson's Green Brier and Belle Meade Bourbon

In this week's podcast, we learn some family and Tennessee Whiskey history from Charlie Nelson of Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery. Charlie, along with his father and his brother Andy, stumbled upon a bit of family history while out on the road one day. This discovery led them down a long and winding path to resurrection of the family distillery, DSP-TN-5. Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery dates back to 1880, though it wasn’t revived by Charlie and Andy until 2009. We found the stories of the famil

Feb 8, 2021 • 54:27

108: Buffalo Trace Bourbon Single Barrel Picks

The crew is back together and we’ve got a blind bourbon tasting ready to go! This time, it’s Buffalo Trace and we line up 3 single barrel store picks against an off-the-shelf bottle of Buffalo Trace. Which will come out on top? Are single barrels better than what you can find on any store shelf?  We share our opinions and the results of our blind tasting. We also discuss Michael’s upcoming plans to move to Florida and even get into a little debate about pizza.  We hope you enjoy this episode as

Feb 1, 2021 • 50:17

107: National Irish Coffee Day with Slane Irish Whiskey

It’s National Irish Coffee Day on January 25th and we couldn’t have asked for a better guest to celebrate the occasion. We’re joined by Alex Conyngham from Slane Distillery in Ireland. Slane Irish Whiskey is the perfect accompaniment to the classic Irish Coffee and they’ve put their own spin on the cocktail to celebrate.  Partnering with Red Bay Coffee, they’ve developed their own roast which pairs perfectly with Slane Irish Whiskey.  Be sure to check out the full recipe below and be sure to let

Jan 25, 2021 • 49:19

106: Castle & Key Restoration Rye Whiskey

Castle & Key Distillery has resurrected a giant in the Kentucky Bourbon industry, the Old Taylor Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky.  And after many years of restoring the fabled location, Castle & Key has released their first whiskey. Restoration Rye, an aptly named whiskey, is the first rye whiskey to be released from this location as well.  We are joined by co-founder Wes Murry and Blender Brett Connors to discuss the distillery’s history, its whiskey, and their plans for the future.  We taste

Jan 18, 2021 • 49:36

105: CommUNITY Bourbon by Maker's Mark & The LEE Initiative

Maker’s Mark is going on a tear with their Wood Finishing Series and Private Selection Bourbon program and people are starting to take notice. This week, Scott and Jake crack the wax on their brand new bottles of The CommUNITY Batch by Maker’s Mark.  Jake and Scott also chat about early New Year resolutions and plans for making 2021 a better year for both. The CommUNITY Batch is a special release bourbon created to support trade and hospitality partners around the country by benefiting The LEE I

Jan 11, 2021 • 28:38

104: Terry Bradshaw and Bradshaw Bourbon

Terry Bradshaw joined Bourbon Lens to talk whiskey and his new Bradshaw Bourbon. Terry Bradshaw, NFL Hall of Famer and four-time Super Bowl winning quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, is widely acknowledged as today’s preeminent NFL studio personality, serving as co-host on Fox NFL Sunday. While Terry is well known for his time on the football field, lately he's been busy with balancing a bourbon brand, The Bradshaw Bunch, and co-hosting duties at Fox. Launched in February, the Kentucky Str

Jan 4, 2021 • 48:59

103: OH Ingram River Aged Whiskey

Hank Ingram joined us to talk about his namesake whiskey and the unique aging technique it employs. Nashville entrepreneur, Hank Ingram, is the founder of Brown Water Spirits and their line of O.H. Ingram River Aged Whiskey. As the name implies, this whiskey was river-aged inside a floating rickhouse. This rickhouse is a large barge moored to the banks of the Mississippi River, benefiting from the riverside’s temperature variations, humidity, and the constant motion of the river. While some may

Dec 28, 2020 • 48:57

102: Penelope Bourbon

We’re joined by friends and co-founders of Penelope Bourbon, Mike Paladini and Danny Polise. Penelope Bourbon was founded out of a passion for family, friendship, and great bourbon. We enjoyed sitting down with Mike and Danny to discuss the brand, its origin story, and 3 different bourbons in their lineup. Penelope is distilled at the famed MGP, but blended with diverse input from Mike and Danny. They’ve hit on something with their Four Grain blend and are staking their claim in the ultra-drinka

Dec 21, 2020 • 1:15:48

101: Old Elk Master Distiller Greg Metze

We're joined by American Whiskey Legend, Greg Metze, for this week's podcast. If you don't know his name yet, you'll definitely know his whiskey.  Greg has decades of experience at one of the largest spirits producers in the United States; MGP in Lawrenceburg, Indiana. As part of his retirement planning, Greg decided to venture out on his own and develop products for the Old Elk Distillery, including the 3 we taste through in this episode.  Old Elk Straight Wheat Whiskey 5 year. 100 proof  Ma

Dec 14, 2020 • 1:08:21

100: Bourbon Lens Looking Back on 100 Episodes

It’s hard to believe we’ve produced 100 episodes of Bourbon Lens. The three of us spend some time talking about some of our favorite episodes, guests, and moments over the last 2 years.  We’ve appreciated each of our guests, our fans, and supporters who’ve kept us going.  Here’s to another 100!! Thank you!  You’ll find a full list below of all the episodes we discussed during this week’s “look back” episode. While we couldn’t possibly name every episode, these are just a few standouts to us. Be

Dec 7, 2020 • 37:06

99: Chicken Cock Whiskey Master Distiller Gregg Snyder

Gregg Snyder, from Chicken Cock Whiskey, joined the podcast to talk about all things Chicken Cock and to share some of their bourbon and rye whiskey. We discussed the history of the brand, its revival, and plans for the future, including their relationship with the Bardstown Bourbon Company Collaborative Distilling Program. Most of all, Michael and Scott enjoyed getting to hear from Gregg about his experience and expertise at famous Kentucky distilleries, including Brown-Forman, Wild Turkey, and

Nov 30, 2020 • 42:31

98: A Midwinter Night's Dram by High West Whiskey

This week we are discussing High West Whiskey and their new release of A Midwinter Night's Dram. Midwinter Nights Dram is a wildly popular version of High West Rendezvous Rye finished in French oak port barrels. This year is their Eighth Act (release) in the limited release series. It stands out for its unique and bold style while still appealing to many different types of whiskey drinkers. If you have the opportunity to grab this release, you shouldn't pass on it.  We also discuss future releas

Nov 23, 2020 • 47:55

97: Pappyland Author Wright Thompson Talks Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon

'Pappyland' tells the story of the Van Winkle family, the bourbon business, & the demand for rare wheated bourbon bearing the name of Pappy Van Winkle. We were joined by Author & ESPN's Wright Thompson to discuss his new book which just released November 10, 2020: Pappyland: A Story of Family, Fine Bourbon, and the Things That Last. The book is about so much more than bourbon; it tells the story of those who make bourbon and those who enjoy it. As you know, both are essential to the story of Ken

Nov 16, 2020 • 56:33

96: Old Overholt Rye Whiskey

We’re checking out a couple rye whiskies this week, including the  Old Overholt 114 Proof (Ohio only Special Release) and Hudson Whiskey’s new Do the Rye Thing Rye Whiskey. The new, higher proof Old Overholt is a spin on a classic rye. It is limited to Ohio only at this point, but it has garnered some good reviews from those who have had the opportunity to land a bottle. Find out how we think these two whiskies stack up. Thank you to Hudson Whiskey for sending us a care package featuring two of

Nov 9, 2020 • 35:54

95: Old Forester Master Taster, Jackie Zykan

We are joined by Jackie Zykan, Master Taster for Louisville's Bourbon Brand, Old Forester. Jake and Michael sat down to discuss the brand's growth and her rise through the ranks.  We sipped Old Forester Rye Whiskey during this episode, which is another staple to add to any bar.  We also discuss the growth of the lineup from the Whisky Row series, Statesman, and bringing back President's Choice.  You'll learn how Jackie’s background in the bartending industry helped her transition to this beloved

Nov 2, 2020 • 43:02

94: Rabbit Hole Distillery

The Bourbon Lens Crew had the privilege of taking a private tour of the Rabbit Hole Distillery in Downtown Louisville recently. We sat down with the Brand’s Digital Ambassador, Adam Edwards, to discuss the history of the distillery, its founder Kaveh Zamanian, and the spirits they craft. We discuss the ultra exclusive Founder’s Collection and its first offering, Boxergrail Rye Whiskey at Cask Strength as well as future plans for the brand. And we discuss, maybe for the first time publicly, the H

Oct 26, 2020 • 1:20:20

93: Maker's Mark and Golfing with "Chubs"

This week we have a solid lineup of limited edition bourbons from Maker’s Mark. Our first podcast back together as a group of 3 since the pandemic started, we had a lot of fun catching up and talking shop. We each brought something different to run through a tasting together. Jake had Maker’s 101 and Maker’s 46 Cask Strength, Scott brought Maker’s Cask Strength (Batch 20-03), and Michael grabbed his Private Selection of Maker’s from Match Cigar Bar. We discussed the legendary Maker’s Mark red wa

Oct 19, 2020 • 58:50

92: Bhakta Brandy - 50 Year Old Armagnac for Whiskey Lovers

Raj Peter Bhakta, the founder of WhistlePig and now Bhakta Farms, has left the world of rye whiskey and entered into the world of rare Armagnac brandy. Raj just introduced BHAKTA 50, a marriage of Argmanac’s he discovered with Vintages from 1868 - 1970. And he’s gone a step further  and finished it in Islay casks. A complex spirit that is ideal for the curious  whiskey lover. Sweet and smoky but not overly so, this finishing process for 50+ year old Armagnac is unlike anything else.  Raj had us

Oct 12, 2020 • 45:42

91: Sagamore Spirit Rye Whiskey

Maryland Style Rye Whiskey is the topic today.  We explore a handful of rye whiskies from Sagamore Spirit in Baltimore Maryland.  We're joined by Brian Treacy to talk about what makes Sagamore Spirit unique, their core lineup, and some exciting limited release rye whiskies.  Sagamore Spirit jump started their brand sourcing some of the wildly popular "MGP Rye" from Indiana's largest distillery, but they are excited to move to their own distillate in the very near future.  We enjoyed each of the

Oct 5, 2020 • 47:12

90: Bourbon Hunting Season

Jake and Scott are at it again with another Bourbon Heritage Month episode.  This time, we dive into the world of Bourbon Hunting and the madness created every Fall surrounding "Bourbon Hunting Season." Jake and Scott discuss their different perceptions of bourbon hunting and seeking out the rare and expensive bottles that pop up around this time every year.  We also discuss some of this year's highly anticipated whiskey releases.  Join us and let us know what your thoughts are on Bourbon Huntin

Sep 28, 2020 • 41:58

89: Bottled in Bond Bourbon Heavyweights

Jake and Scott taste through two heavy-hitting Bottled in Bond Bourbon releases; Old Fitzgerald 15 Year Old and Wild Turkey Master's Keep 17 Year Bottled in Bond. While both are limited releases, we discuss how they stack up against each other and in the bourbon world. Each has their own highlights, high price points, and we both had to pick a winner after a side-by-side tasting. We appreciate everyone who has taken the time to give us feedback on our podcast.  If you enjoy our content, consider

Sep 21, 2020 • 36:44

88: New Riff Distilling

We’re continuing National Bourbon Heritage Month with a relatively new Kentucky distillery. This week, it’s New Riff Distillery, which claims to put "A New Riff on an Old Tradition". We are joined by Jay Erisman, vice-president of strategic development and co-founder of the distillery in Newport, Kentucky. We discuss the meaning of “New Riff”, the brand’s focus on bottled in bond whiskey, and what makes New Riff different. We also dive into some of the more technical distillation, fermentation,

Sep 14, 2020 • 1:08:52

87: Yellowstone Bourbon and Limestone Branch

Jake and Scott are finally back on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.  This time, we stop in Lebanon Kentucky at Limestone Branch Distillery, producers of the famed Yellowstone Bourbon.  We sit down with Steve Beam and share the full lineup of Limestone Branch whiskies.  Steve Beam is in the Beam Family Tree, which has had their hands in the bourbon of nearly every major distillery in Kentucky. In addition to some Beam family history, we also discuss the Dant Family of Bourbon.  We also touch on the hi

Sep 7, 2020 • 1:09:07

86: Bourbon and Wine Barrels with Josh Cellars

Just in time for National Bourbon Heritage Month, we are exploring a first for us, bourbon barrel aged wine. We may be familiar with wine barrel-finished bourbons, but what about the other way around?  Josh Cellars recently introduced their Reserve Bourbon Barrel Aged Cabernet Sauvignon which was matured in Redemption Bourbon barrels for two months.  We shared some whiskey and wine with the Founder of Josh Cellars. We’re joined by Joseph Carr, Founder of Josh Cellars, to talk whiskey and wine. T

Aug 31, 2020 • 49:05

85: Marianne Eaves and Sweetens Cove

We're joined by Marianne Eaves to discuss her career in the whiskey world and her aspirations for the future. Marianne is currently the Master Blender behind Sweetens Cove Tennessee Bourbon. We were lucky enough to taste through Batch #1 with Marianne and learn her process behind selecting whiskey for blending and for single barrel selections. About Marianne Eaves: She's no stranger to the spirits industry or creating and growing one-of-a-kind premium spirits, Marianne will forever hold a place

Aug 24, 2020 • 46:32

84: MGP - Masters of Rye and Remus Bourbon

MGP is well known in the bourbon and whiskey world, though there is a bit of mystery behind the historic Lawrenceburg Indiana distillery. We're joined by MGP Master Blender, David Whitmer, to explore the history of MGP, King of The Bootleggers George Remus, and MGP's core lineup of whiskies. We taste through two offerings of Rossville Union Rye, George Remus Bourbon, and a very special limited release of Remus Repeal Reserve Bourbon.  Are these MGP's best kept secrets? August is National Rye Mon

Aug 17, 2020 • 1:17:56

83: Belfour Spirits Ed Belfour

We’re exploring whiskey on ice. Hockey Hall of Famer, Ed Belfour, has launched his own whiskey brand and we had the opportunity to sample two of their whiskies.  We were honored to have the opportunity to interview 1999 Stanley Cup Champion, Eddie the Eagle.  During this week’s podcast we discuss: Ed’s Canadian roots, his love for Canadian Rye Whisky, and these being the inspiration behind Belfour Spirits How Ed’s hands on approach to hockey has bled into the whiskey craft.  Ed has studied whi

Aug 10, 2020 • 42:44

82: High West Whiskey

Were you sad to see Yippie Ki-Yay bid farewell from the High West lineup?  We sit down with High West Whiskey Production Manager, Isaac Winter, to understand the decision behind this classic bottle leaving the line up and what the brand has in store next!  We discussed the full lineup of High West Whiskey and point out some of our favorites.  High West calls Utah home and Isaac convinced Jake and Michael that they need to move to Park City during this week's episode. Scott was off on vacation, s

Aug 3, 2020 • 47:14

81: Four Gate Whiskey Batch 6 and 7

Four Gate Whiskey Company recently released Batch 6 and 7 of their whiskey series and were nice enough to send us some samples to check out.   Batch 6 is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon finished in Cognac and Rum Casks and Batch 7 is their first release of a Rye Whiskey.  If you haven't already listened to Episode 58, be sure to check out that podcast interview with the brand owners, Bill Straub and Bob D'Antoni. Let us know what you think of Four Gate by sending us a note on social media and leavi

Jul 27, 2020 • 29:35

80: High Wire Distilling Co.

On this week’s episode we sit down with High Wire Distilling owner and founder, Scott Blackwell, to discuss their unique ways for distilling some fine whiskey and Jimmy Red Corn. Scott comes from a culinary background. After selling his bakery to General Mills, Scott and his wife pursued their dream of starting a craft distillery located in Charleston, SC. Scott wanted to bring his culinary experience to distillation by focusing on the ingredients to make a unique whiskey and experience. Let us

Jul 20, 2020 • 1:16:09

79: Double Oaked Bourbon

There's no question that twice-barreled bourbons are becoming more popular.  However, a large majority these of bourbons are being finished in used barrels which previously contained wine, rum, or brandy.  Some, such as the two bourbons we are discussing today are finished in a second, virgin charred oak barrel. We discuss the ever-popular Woodford Reserve Double Oaked and compare it to a bourbon from growing, innovative craft distillery.  That is Starlight Distillery and their Carl T. Huber’s I

Jul 13, 2020 • 24:02

78: Rare Bird 101 Talking Wild Turkey Bourbon

He’s the ultimate Wild Turkey fan and he’s just released a new book on the history of Wild Turkey. You may know David Jennings better as “Rare Bird 101”.  He joins us on this week’s episode to “talk Turkey”.  Wild Turkey’s history is unique and full of rich family traditions.  This is all detailed in the new book, American Spirit: Wild Turkey Bourbon from Ripy to Russell.   We enjoyed the book and recommend any bourbon love to pick up the book at https://wildturkeybook.com/; you’ll develop a new

Jul 6, 2020 • 1:13:10

77: Whiskey Lifestyle with 18.21 Man Made

A true whiskey lifestyle brand. We are joined by Aston LaFon, Co-Founder of 18.21 Man Made, to discuss the whiskey lifestyle and his men's grooming company.  How do men's products fit into a whiskey lifestyle?  Their brand was inspired by the bootlegging of Prohibition and customizing grooming products to fill a void in the market. The 18.21 Man Made namesake is an homage to the 18th Amendment which implemented Prohibition and was later repealed by the 21st Amendment.  This is a Texas based busi

Jun 29, 2020 • 49:37

76: Wanderback - American Single Malt Whiskey

American Single Malt Whiskey is on the rise and Wanderback Whiskey is right in the middle and playing a unique role. Phil Downer, Founder of Wanderback Whiskey, joins the Bourbon Lens to discuss the growing market category and what inspired him to create his unique brand.  Wanderback produces hand-crafted, limited edition American single malt whiskeys in Hood River, Oregon. Instead of making a flagship whiskey and reproducing the same taste over and over, Wanderback prefers to explore the endles

Jun 22, 2020 • 57:08

75: Fistful of Bourbon

"It ain’t just a bourbon. It’s a damn fistful."  We had a great time with Anthony Bohlinger, National Brand Ambassador for Fistful of Bourbon. Fistful of Bourbon is a new, national release bourbon from William Grant & Sons. You may be more familiar with the company known for Scotch brands like Glenfiddich and The Balvenie (as well as Hendrick’s Gin and  Sailor Jerry rum), but this is the company’s first new American Whiskey. Fistful is a blend of five straight American bourbons (five fingers … f

Jun 15, 2020 • 39:02

74: Rye Whiskey Born From Brewers

Bruce Joseph, Master Distiller of Hotaling & Co., joins us to discuss one of the original craft rye whiskies post-Prohibition.  Old Potrero emerged out San Francisco after a few brewers decided to try their hand at distillation in the mid-1990s.  Hotaling & Co. (formerly the Anchor Distilling Company) produces several rye whiskies under the Old Potrero namesake. This unique rye whiskey is made from 100% malted rye grain and distilled using pot stills.  We had the opportunity to try Old Potrero S

Jun 8, 2020 • 42:08

73: Pairing Whiskey with My Cigar Pack

We are joined by Alexander Berezowski, founder of My Cigar Pack and Cigar Yard, to talk cigars. We discuss the parallels in cigar culture and the world of whiskey as well as what makes the modern cigar smoker different. Alexander generously shared some fine cigars with us to pair with our whiskies of choice. Alexander is a driven entrepreneur who is constantly striving to bring the world’s best cigars to all types of cigar lovers. My Cigar Pack and its sister company, Cigar Yard, have partnered

Jun 1, 2020 • 1:06:29

72: Around the World with Jefferson's Bourbon

We had a great time learning the history of Jefferson's Bourbon, sourcing whiskey in Kentucky, and sending bourbon on trips around the globe.  Trey Zoeller, Founder of Jefferson's Bourbon, joins us for a great evening enjoying two of Jefferson's popular offerings, Jefferson's Ocean Aged at Sea and Jefferson's Reserve Pritchard Hill Cabernet Cask Finish.  We also talked about a little friedly competition between himself and Julian Van Winkle (of the Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery aka Pappy Van Win

May 25, 2020 • 1:06:34

71: Bourbon News and Upcoming Releases

Michael and Scott catch up over some bourbon and discuss some exciting, upcoming releases in the whiskey world.  We also discuss our hopes in getting back out on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail as COVID-19 has dealt a heavy blow to the tourism industry. We would appreciate you giving us a 5 star rating on your podcast app and please leave us a written review. This will help others discover our podcast and will help us expand our reach. Also, be sure to follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, &

May 18, 2020 • 28:46

70: Knob Creek with Fire Chief Mercer

Have you ever wondered what it's like to be a firefighter and first responder at one of the world's largest bourbon distilleries? This week, we sit down with Jim Beam Fire Chief Kevin Mercer and some whiskies from Knob Creek. You’ll hear all about the fire department and some details about distillery operations at The James B. Beam Distilling Co.  And hear our thoughts on the new Knob Creek 12 Year Old Bourbon and Single Barrel of Knob Creek Rye.  Finally, be sure you check out what Chief Mercer

May 11, 2020 • 53:51

69: Elijah Craig Single Barrel Picks

We line up 4 single barrel, store picks of the ever-popular Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon.  We also discuss life during the Covid-19 quarantine.  The quarantine has provided us with an opportunity to sample some great and some unique whiskies.  The four picks we sampled are from: A) Louisville Bourbon Club/Evergreen Liquors, B) Bottles Unlimited, C) Liquor Barn, and D) Keg Liquors Indiana We think we’ve found a clear winner, but we discuss the nuances of store picks and single barrel programs

May 4, 2020 • 51:49

68: Chattanooga Tennessee High Malt Whiskey

On this week’s episode we sit down with Chattanooga Whiskey Co-Founder and CEO Tim Piersant. Their signature Tennessee High Malt whiskey is made up of four grains including 3 specialty malts that provide a unique and very complex flavor profile (which, is a technically a Straight Bourbon also). Tim walks us through the history of distillation in the city of Chattanooga and the role they played in getting distillation legalized again in his hometown. Tim also talks about what made him start Chatt

Apr 27, 2020 • 51:30

67: Talking Australian With Starward Whisky’s David Vitale

Branching out and exploring Australian Whisky in this week’s episode with David Vitale, Founder of Starward.  Starward Australian Whisky was founded in 2007 but recently released in the US with two solid expressions; Nova Single Malt Whisky and Two-Fold Double Grain Whisky. We were able to enjoy both of with Founder David Vitale via Skype. Since its Australian debut in 2016, Starward Nova has received numerous accolades including two gold medals at the 2016 San Francisco World Spirits Competitio

Apr 20, 2020 • 55:38

66: Whiskey Farmer - Ground to Glass Bourbon

Self-proclaimed "Whiskey Farmers", Colby Frey and Ashley Frey recently introduced their first bourbon and have staked their claim in the craft bourbon space.  Frey Ranch Distillery is a true ground-to-glass “whiskey farm” and distillery located in Northern Nevada’s Lake Tahoe Watershed, where the Frey family has been farming since 1854. The 1,500-acre Frey Ranch is owned and operated by fifth-generation farmer Colby Frey and his wife Ashley, who founded a distillery on the property in 2006 and b

Apr 13, 2020 • 44:03

65: Winemakers Turned Whiskey Distillers

On this week’s episode we take a trip to Starlight, Indiana to visit the Starlight Distillery located at Huber's Orchard & Winery. Huber’s is most known for their world-famous wine and entertainment at the winery. We were met by co-owner and Master Distiller Ted Huber and his son and associate distiller, Christian Huber. They were kind enough to give us a private tour of the distillery and share some very special whiskies with us.   We then sat down to do what we do, record a podcast. Ted and Ch

Apr 6, 2020 • 1:17:44

64: This Bourbon Smells Like What?!

It is hard to identify the flavors and aromas of whiskey without experiencing those flavors and aromas first.  This is where the Nose Your Bourbon Kit comes into play.  Chris Walters has created a bourbon nosing kit to help bourbon fans identify the various elements of bourbon aromas and tastes. The compact, travel-ready kit includes 18 different vials of some of the most common smells you may discover in a whiskey; peanut, corn, cinnamon and tobacco just to name a few. The Nose Your Bourbon K

Mar 30, 2020 • 39:37

63: Westland American Single Malt Whiskey

We're discussing a new style of whiskey for us, American Single Malt Whiskey.  And who better to talk with than Westland Distillery, co-founders of the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission.  We discuss what makes an American Single Malt Whiskey and the efforts to ratify a definition on a national level to protect the whiskey category.   We enjoyed 3 of Westland’s single malts; American Oak, Sherry Wood, and Peated.  Made from 100% barley, American Single Malt Whiskey may not share a lot of si

Mar 23, 2020 • 54:35

62: Barley & Blarney - St. Patrick's Day

Is there more to Irish Whiskey than a shot of Jameson on St. Patrick's Day?  We have a lineup of several different Irish Whiskies and found ourselves in uncharted territory as bourbon fans. Thank you to the contributors who helped make this episode possible. Irish Whiskey Glass Ltd. coordinated with Distillery Products to provide us with some beautiful Túath Irish Whiskey Glasses. These are designed with Irish Whiskey in mind.  We'd encourage our listeners to check them out if they are looking f

Mar 16, 2020 • 49:36

61: Peggy Noe Stevens

In honor of International Women's Day and Women's History Month, we sat down with a very influential woman in the Kentucky Bourbon world.  Peggy Noe Stevens has played a huge role in crafting Kentucky's bourbon-ism culture and creating bourbon-centric experiences for many thousands of guests in her career.  Even if you didn't know her name before today, you definitely know her work if you've ever traveled on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.  Peggy Noe Stevens has written a new book to share her knowl

Mar 9, 2020 • 43:44

60: Kentucky Straight Ice

What is it like trying to make a name for yourself in the Kentucky Bourbon industry?  Learn about running a small, family-owned business, risk tasking, and networking in Kentucky. We sat down with Rich Finck, Owner and Founder of Kentucky Straight Ice, “The Official Ice of Bourbon”. Whether you add water, ice, bitters, or coke to your bourbon, you are bound to enjoy your favorite spirit more when you add a crystal clear cube of Kentucky Straight Ice. It is the Official Ice of Bourbon™. While not

Mar 2, 2020 • 1:12:16

59: Kentucky Owl and Dixon Dedman

On this week’s episode, The Bourbon Lens travels to the historic Beaumont Inn in Harrodsburg, KY to sit down with Kentucky Owl Co-founder, Dixon Dedman. Dixon resurrected his great-great grandfather, Charles Mortimer Dedman’s whiskey brand that had fallen victim to prohibition in the early 1900’s. The Kentucky Owl name laid dormant until Dixon had the idea to revitalize the family brand.  Kick back and enjoy our conversation with Dixon, as we talk about growing up in his family’s Beaumont Inn, a

Feb 24, 2020 • 1:14:20

58: Four Gate Whiskey Company

A big thank you this week to Bill Straub for inviting us into his home to share his whiskey with the The Bourbon Lens.  We sat down with Bill Straub and Bob D'Antoni, co-founders of Four Gate Whiskey, and explored the history of their brand as well as their unique take on whiskey. Four Gate is known for its collaborations with Kelvin Cooperage, a craft barrel maker in Louisville Kentucky. Four Gate produces unique batches of barrel-finished, barrel proof, and limited release American Whiskey for

Feb 17, 2020 • 1:25:54

57: Angel's Envy Founder Wes Henderson

On this week’s episode, we sit down with the co-founder of Angel's Envy, Wes Henderson, as we discuss the inspiration of the brand and the Angel’s Envy product line. Wes is the son of bourbon hall of famer, Lincoln Henderson. Wes and Lincoln had a vision to start their own independent distillery and make unique products by barrel finishing their hand-crafted whiskey. On this episode, we discuss everything from their standard product offerings to their limited edition Cellar Collection releases.

Feb 10, 2020 • 32:21

56: Mother-Daughter Distilling Duo

Michael enjoyed some whiskey from Christine Riggleman (aka Hooch Mama) and Lauren Riggleman Weller (Baby Hooch). Thanks to one of our fans, PCWhiskey on Instagram, we were introduced to this Mother-Daughter distilling duo from Silverback Distillery. Learn more about the Silverback team and their lineup of whiskey in this week's episode. Christine and Lauren make a great team and provide a great perspective on life as a growing distillery.  Additionally, Silverback is active in their fight for

Feb 3, 2020 • 53:45

55: Weller Bourbon Blind Flight

Wheater Madness and Weller Bourbon! It has been exactly one year since we released our first podcast and this week’s episode is a bit of free-for-all. And what better bourbon to discuss than Weller, "The Original Wheated Bourbon". We discuss voting for The Rock for President, old school pro wrestling, the bourbon secondary market, Conor McGregor fandom, and the wild world of Weller Bourbon.  Listen in as we blind taste Weller’s standard lineup to find our favorites. We tasted Weller Special Rese

Jan 27, 2020 • 1:00:57

54: Taconic Double Barrel Maple Bourbon

Today's episode features the limited release Double Barrel Maple Bourbon from Taconic Distillery.  Michael and Scott also dive into the world of Whiskey Instagram and how we see things changing  on the platform.  The Double Barrel Maple Bourbon is the 115 proof release and it was barreled in Catskill Mountain Sugarhouse maple syrup barrels.  We also compared it to Taconic's Mizunara finished bourbon from Episode 48.  Enjoy today's episode and be sure to keep an eye out for the whiskies coming ou

Jan 20, 2020 • 33:57

53: Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon

The three of us are back together again and we have 3 barrel proof bourbons ready to go.  This time, we taste a flight of the 2019 offerings of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof. Heaven Hill released three high proof, 12 year old bourbons in 2019, as they do every year of their popular Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon.  The Batches are as follows: RELEASE DATE        BATCH NO.         PROOF January 2019         A119                       135.2 May 2019                B519                      122.2 Sept

Jan 13, 2020 • 33:16

52: Rye Whiskey Flight Fight Challenge

On this week’s episode, while Scott is out for the birth of his new son, Jake and Michael take time to reflect back on The Bourbon Lens' first year and highlights for us in 2019, and oh yeah, put some rye whiskies to the test. We put eight rye whiskies through the rye flight challenge. Comparing the match-ups by proof, we sipped some really fine rye whiskey, and one that was a real letdown, who will it be? Rye Flight Fights:     Bulleit Rye 12 Year (92 Proof) vs. Colonel EH Taylor Straight Rye

Jan 6, 2020 • 51:05

51: Denver and Liely Glassware Interview

On this week’s episode Michael sits down with glassmaker Denver Cramer, co-owner of Denver & Liely. Denver & Liely is a company founded by two engineers in Melbourne, Australia with a passion for designing spirits glasses that enhance the drinker’s connection with the spirit they are consuming.  This episode takes a trip down memory lane as we discuss Denver’s passions and life journeys that have been inspirational for his success. We discuss his decision to quit his day job and pursue the idea

Dec 30, 2019 • 57:48

50: The Perfect Christmas Bourbon Gift Guide

The Bourbon Lens version of a Christmas Gift Guide.  Gift guides can be found everywhere on the internet, but this podcast episode is a fresh spin on that idea. We take several “Whiskey Friend” stereotypes and suggest bottles of whiskey for each. Some of these gifts might be serious, most are sarcastic, but you’re sure to find the perfect whiskey bottle to gift your friends.   Here’s the listing of those typical “Whiskey Friend” stereotypes: Whiskey Tater The guy who calls Old RIP Van Winkle, "

Dec 23, 2019 • 1:00:21

49: Broken Barrel Whiskey

On this week’s episode we sit down with Broken Barrel Whiskey Founder and CEO, Seth Benhaim. Seth started the Infuse Spirits Company in 2012 when he was 25 years old. The Infuse Spirits line focuses on naturally infusing and blending spirits with natural fruits and spices. Seth's passion for infusing spirits led him to become the youngest brand owner to ever win Best-in-Show and Double-Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.   While the Infuse Spirits line primarily focuses on blend

Dec 16, 2019 • 1:00:21

48: Taconic's Mizunara Finished Bourbon

From Buffalo Trace to The Big Apple.  Brandon Collins, Head Distiller for Taconic Distillery, joins us for this week's episode of The Bourbon Lens.  Brandon moved on from his role at one of the most recognizable distilleries in world to take on craft distilling in New York state. Taconic Distillery is located 90 miles north of New York City and is gaining ground by their willingness to experiment with excellent barrel finishes and their ability to produce high quality bourbon and rye whiskey.  O

Dec 9, 2019 • 40:05

47: The Alchemist of Indiana

We sat down with Distiller Alan Bishop and Jolee Kasprzak from The Spirits of French Lick Distillery in West Baden Springs, Indiana. We recorded this episode on location in the Spirits of French Lick Barrel Chai (Warehouse) while enjoying some of their Lee W. Sinclair 4 Grain Bourbon.  This is a distillery that truly embraces it motto, "Respect the Grain."  Find out why Alan Bishop dislikes being called a Master Distiller and prefers “Alchemist” instead. Alan is a wealth of knowledge on the hist

Dec 2, 2019 • 43:03

46: The Golden Gunfighter

Stephen Gould, Owner of Golden Moon Distillery & Gun Fighter Whiskey, joins The Bourbon Lens Podcast. Stephen has close to 30 years of distilling experience. Golden Moon and Gun Fighter are Stephen's brands and he is looking to grow in the industry. Stephen has also collaborated with many others including the Legend, Dave Pickerell. His expertise is not limited to whiskey; Stephen enjoys creating several unique and historical spirits. You'll find Stephen distilling gin, absinthe, and many more y

Nov 25, 2019 • 42:35

45: Crafting The American Dream

What is it like to run a small business in the Kentucky Bourbon industry? We sat down with the Owner and leather craftsman behind the BourbonWare brand.  BourbonWare is the brainchild and nearly lifelong passion of Micah Sierp. Micah has been involved in the leather crafting trade for over 20 years and is proud to follow in his father’s trade.  BourbonWare’s flagship product, the Lexington Rocks Glass was developed by Micah in 2007; a 13.5oz Libbey rocks glass which is tightly wrapped with an E

Nov 18, 2019 • 50:14

44: Infinity Bottle War

It may not be Avengers: Infinity Wars, but we had a battle this week. We found out how difficult it is to blend whiskey. Each of us tried our hands at blending our own whiskey (blend recipes listed below) and we lined them up in a blind tasting.  Find out who wins this week's challenge and who might need some more practice.  Also, during the episode you'll learn how you can get your hands on these same whiskey blends to taste for yourself. Be sure to follow us on Instagram for more details.   Wh

Nov 11, 2019 • 57:15

43: Drink Bourbon For A Change

We dive into a set of samples sent to us by Bourbon Charity. This is a blind tasting to find the best bourbon under $30. Bourbon Charity is an organization which is utilizing bourbon to benefit several non-profit and charitable organizations. “Drink for A Change” is one of their mottos and this latest effort will benefit the Prostate Cancer Foundation, Children's Tumor Foundation, Fisher House Foundation, Boys and Girls Club of East Valley, and Charity: Water.  Learn more about Bourbon Charity

Nov 4, 2019 • 34:10

42: Bardstown Bourbon Co.'s Dan Callaway

There is no "smoke and mirrors" when it comes to Bardstown Bourbon Company. This episode features an interview with Dan Callaway from Bardstown Bourbon Company. Dan is the Assistant Vice President of Customer Relations for Bardstown Bourbon and handles the customer facing side of the business as well as product development. We enjoyed several excellent whiskies from Bardstown Bourbon Company as we learned about their take on the future of the bourbon industry and how they intend to be a part of

Oct 28, 2019 • 52:52

41: Single Barrel Bourbon Flight

We line up 3 single barrel bourbons from Jake's whiskey collection this week. The newcomer, Kentucky Peerless Bourbon, takes on the ever-popular EH Taylor Single Barrel from Buffalo Trace and the ultra-aged 18 year old Elijah Craig from Heaven Hill.  We also discuss the benefits of small batch and blending vs. single barrel bourbons. Find out how each ranked in our blind tasting episode of single barrel bourbons. SHOW LINKS: Elijah Craig 18-Year-Old Single Barrel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Collection Kent

Oct 21, 2019 • 46:57

40: Urban Bourbon

A Chicago whiskey enthusiast is gaining popularity on Instagram. We sat down with Chris aka UrbanBourbonist on Instagram and discuss bourbon tourism in Louisville, Instagram as a social media platform, and how Chris is utilizing the platform with his live stream interviews of those in the whiskey industry. Chris is also an Executive Bourbon Steward and discusses his experience with the training through The Stave and Thief Society. Biography:  Chris Blatner is a whiskey enthusiast from Chicago, I

Oct 14, 2019 • 50:35

39: Four Roses Behind the Scenes

We paid a visit to The Four Roses Bourbon Distillery in Lawrenceburg Kentucky. Four Roses Quality Manager, Marcus Niemann, sat down with us in the sensory lab and we sipped some very rare bourbon while learning more about the people and the bourbons behind the brand. Be sure to check out Four Roses the next time you are in Kentucky.  More information can be found at FourRosesBourbon.com.   We would appreciate you giving us a 5 star rating on your podcast app of choice and please leave us a writt

Oct 7, 2019 • 52:41

38: Is Whiskey The Consensus?

We sat down with some whiskey and had a great discussion with Matthew Evans. Matthew is the founder/owner of Whiskey Consensus.  He has devoted a lot of time and effort to growing an Instagram account into a brand. Whiskey Consensus is a website dedicated to easy-to read and honest bourbon and whiskey reviews and high quality photography. We encourage you to check out WhiskeyConsensus.com to find your next whiskey bottle; we think you'll like their no-nonsense approach to whiskey reviews. Also,

Sep 30, 2019 • 32:08

37: Travel Down The Bourbon Road

Two bourbon podcasts collide. The result is some great conversation and a lineup of 5 cask strength rye whiskies. We sat down with Jim and Mike (aka Big Chief) from The Bourbon Road Podcast for this week's collaboration episode. In an effort to mix things up, we decided to kick back with bourbon's rival, rye whiskey.   If you enjoyed today's episode, be sure to subscribe to The Bourbon Lens for future episodes and be sure to check out The Bourbon Road Podcast at TheBourbonRoad.com and on all soc

Sep 23, 2019 • 1:46:23

36: Which Flagship Bourbon Is King?

A blind tasting of some of the most widely available bourbon whiskey from Jim Beam, Four Roses, Evan Williams, and Buffalo Trace. In honor of Bourbon Heritage Month, we explore the flagship whiskey of some of Kentucky's biggest bourbon makers.   Bourbons Tasted include: A.  Jim Beam "White Label" 80 proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey No age statement - approximately 4 years old or greater B.  Four Roses "Yellow Label" 80 proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey A blend of all 10 Four Rose

Sep 16, 2019 • 39:49

35: Inside the Speakeasy at Kentucky Peerless

We sit down with some fine bourbon and have a conversation with whiskey maker Caleb Kilburn. Caleb Kilburn is the Master Distiller at Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company. We would appreciate you giving us a 5 star rating on your podcast app of choice and please leave us a written review.  This helps others discover our podcast and will help us expand our reach. Also, be sure to follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please

Sep 9, 2019 • 57:16

34: Ten Year Old Bourbon Battle

A battle of ten year old bourbon whiskey.  An Elijah Craig store pick goes head-to-head against Henry McKenna Bottled In Bond.  How did it fair?  Find out as Scott and Michael compare the two bourbons from Heaven Hill.  Michael also tested Scott with a blind tasting of Early Times Bottled-in-Bond.  Does it hold up for Scott?   We would appreciate you giving us a 5 star rating on whichever podcast app you are listening and please leave us a written review.  This helps others discover our podcast

Sep 3, 2019 • 44:01

33: Bourbon Straight from the Barrel

Grab your favorite bourbon or whiskey and listen as we discuss our experience on a private distillery tour at Jim Beam. The Jim Beam Fire Chief showed us around The James B. Beam Distilling Co. and their Craft Distillery. We sampled a 9 year old Knob Creek straight from the barrel; a unique whiskey tasting experience. We discuss what the Jim Beam has in the works for the future as they look to expand their reach even further as the world’s #1 bourbon brand.   Special thanks to Fire Chief Kevin

Aug 26, 2019 • 30:31

32: Heading West for Whiskey

Today, we take a trip out west to the High West Distillery. We sample 6 different High West whiskies and provide our impressions of the products and the brand. High West Whiskey We would appreciate you giving us a 5 star rating on your podcast app of choice and please leave us a written review.  This helps others discover our podcast and will help us grow. Also, be sure to follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please emai

Aug 19, 2019 • 28:25

31: Discover Bardstown Bourbon Company

The Bardstown Bourbon Company is looking to mix things up in the Bourbon and American Whiskey industry.  It's taking on the big names like MGP (Midwest Grain Products) and becoming the new source of high quality spirits for non-distilling producers.  The Bardstown Bourbon Co. is also producing its own products and is mixing in some into older bourbons to produce blends that drink like much older bourbons.   We sample two bourbons being produced by Bardstown Bourbon Company, The Fusion Series and

Aug 12, 2019 • 53:59

30: Stay Bonded with Heaven Hill

Do we still need "bottled-in-bond"?  Stay Bonded! The motto of Bernie Lubbers, the "Whiskey Professor" and brand ambassador for Heaven Hill Distilleries. Bernie is a wealth of knowledge of all things bourbon and The Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897. We attended a tasting event at Liquor Barn recently and we are reporting back on the event.  We discuss the products we sampled and compared. We also discuss some of Bernie's insight into the recent news from Heaven Hill, 7 year Bottled-In-Bond. He addres

Aug 5, 2019 • 34:10

29: Brandy in Bourbon Country

A detour from the Kentucky Bourbon Trail for the podcast. We toured Louisville's only brandy distillery, Copper and Kings, for this week's episode of the podcast. We discuss how to make brandy and how Copper and Kings is innovating and staying relevant in the city that runs on bourbon. Copper & Kings does not ignore the influence of Bourbon in this city and they embrace it in some of their processes.  Copper & Kings utilizes sonic aging, the process of rapidly aging spirits using sound waves gen

Jul 29, 2019 • 36:38

28: Do Not Call it Bourbon!

Whatever you do, do not call it Bourbon!!  It's Tennessee Whiskey and they get very protective of the name.  Although Tennessee Whiskey and Bourbon might share some characteristics, do not confuse the two. Rival states and rival whiskies.  What is Tennessee Whiskey and how does it differ from Bourbon?  Find out in today's episode.   Flight of Whiskey from Tennessee: Uncle Nearest 1856 George Dickel Bottled in Bond What is Tennessee Whiskey? Lincoln County Process The Science Behind the Lin

Jul 22, 2019 • 42:43

27: Does Bourbon Age Matter?

Are age statements on whiskey labels a thing of the past?  Or are they making a comeback in the bourbon world? We have seen distilleries remove age statements from bottles over the years, but it seems that some distilleries are making a return to the practice. Are age statements valuable to you and your purchasing decisions for bourbons? We discuss the relative importance of age statements to other types of whiskies, including Scotch Whisky.   Show Links: Knob Creek to Restore 9 Year Age Stateme

Jul 15, 2019 • 32:36

26: Whiskey Making at Michter's Distillery

Happy Michter's Monday! We love bourbon and visiting bourbon distilleries. On this week's episode, we feature our tour of the new Michter's Fort Nelson Distillery in Downtown Louisville, Kentucky. We've toured a lot of facilities and we always find something that sets a distillery tour apart from the rest. Sometimes its the process of whiskey making, other times it's the history of the American whiskey maker.  Find out more in this episode.     We would appreciate you giving us a 5 star rating o

Jul 8, 2019 • 53:39

25: Patience in Bourbon Making

We discuss the brand new bourbon from Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company. Peerless decided to never source their whiskey and have had a lot of success with their rye whiskey.  Their bourbon has been aging for 4 years and is finally ready for release to the public. We grabbed a bottle and will give our thoughts on the bourbon as well as Kentucky Peerless as a brand.   We also discuss Heaven Hill Distillery and the re-release of their Bottled in Bond Bourbon. With one additional year of age, a n

Jul 1, 2019 • 44:27

24: Rise & Fall of a Rickhouse

The bourbon industry was hit with some bad news when a portion of a multi-story rickhouse collapsed at Owensboro's O.Z. Tyler Distillery.  We discuss this and some other bourbon news in this week's episode. Facebook cracks down on bourbon sales and the bourbon secondary market is scrambling. The new visitor center for the Bulleit Distillery is opening on June 25, 2019 in Shelbyville Kentucky.  And finally, the Dant Family is re-entering bourbon production and we are always excited to hear about

Jun 24, 2019 • 33:30

23: Bourbon Brand Revival

As promised, The Bourbon Lens visits another distillery as part of its summer travel plans. This week, we discuss the James E. Pepper Distillery in Lexington, KY. There is some history to this revived brand and while we discuss some of it, we recommend you visit and learn more for yourself.  There is also a connection to Woodford Reserve for the Pepper Distillery and the Pepper lineage.  We discuss what makes a great tour and provide our recommendations. Check the show links below for more. We w

Jun 17, 2019 • 40:35

22: Ditching Bourbon For Summer?

The whole crew is back and enjoying some bourbon together. The weather is changing and summer is near. We discuss whether bourbon is a summer drink or if we should mix up our drink of choice for the next few months.  Do you lean towards bourbon on the rocks or a bourbon cocktail?  Or do you find a lower proof bourbon to sip neat?  We also discuss what happens when you go off the deep end and pour yourself vodka or tequila.   We have some summer plans in xgofd, which will include some distillery

Jun 10, 2019 • 48:23

21: Whiskey Industry: Insiders & Influencers

Grab your favorite bourbon and pour a glass as we invite a recurring guest to the podcast. Landon from The Brothers Bourbon Instagram joins us to discuss the current trends in whiskey marketing. We discuss a transition from less traditional forms of media to the influencer marketing of today. Is this trend harmful to the bourbon industry, or is this just a sign of the times for all industries? We discuss the Fyre Festival and the sour taste the scam brought to critics of influencer and social me

Jun 3, 2019 • 56:08

20: The $20 Bourbon Challenge

We've hit a milestone in podcasting. This bourbon podcast has hit 20 Episodes and we are happy to toast some whiskey to our listeners and followers.  In this episode, Michael and Scott challenged themselves to find a bourbon for $20 that they've never had before. We try to figure out if some whiskies are overpriced or if cheap bourbon is cheap for a reason.  Scott picked up a less well known Bourbon from Heaven Hill, Evan Williams 1783, and Michael grabbed a bottle of Ezra Brooks 90 proof bourbo

May 28, 2019 • 50:40

19: My Bourbon is Under U.S. Government Supervision?

Bottled-in-Bond. What does this designation mean when it is on a bourbon or whiskey label? Are you more or less likely to pick up a bottle of liquor when it states that it is "under U.S. Government Supervision"? We discuss the Bottled-in-Bond Act and whether the law's requirements are still necessary today or if it is just a marketing gimmick. Scott shares why this is one of his favorite types of whiskey. Craft distillers are starting to produce "bonded" products, does it set them apart from the

May 20, 2019 • 36:24

18: Run Four (the) Roses: Bourbon Tasting

Four Roses Bourbon and the Kentucky Derby! It's a great time to be in Kentucky for bourbon lovers. The Kentucky Derby is here and a new bourbon just released from Four Roses.  We discuss some of the events surrounding the Greatest Two Minutes in Sports.  And we partake in a side-by-side whiskey tasting of Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon and their newest product, Small Batch Select.  Learn about the alphabet soup of the Four Roses brand and their different flavor profiles.   Show Topics - Four Ros

May 13, 2019 • 55:46

17: Controversial Whiskey Making

We discuss the controversial aging process of double barreled whiskeys and "bourbons". Does this aging process produce higher quality whiskey than traditionally aged whiskey? Is this a fad or a trend that will gain in popularity? We also dive into how much science is too much science when it comes to making whiskey. And finally, will flash or rapid aging ever gain the acceptance of purists in the industry? SHOW LINKS: Understanding the Nightcap -  What is your nightcap drink of choice? 8 Doubl

May 6, 2019 • 47:47

16: Japanese Whisky: Far From Kentucky

We put the bourbon away for a night and explore Japanese whisky thanks to a friend.  Landon from The_Brothers_Bourbon on Instagram joins us for the podcast. We discuss some of the differences between various whisk(e)y from around the world, including scotch, bourbon, and Japanese Whisky.  Landon was generous enough to share some samples of Hibiki Harmony and a 12 year old Yamazaki Single Malt Whisky. We also discuss how to grow your Instagram following while maintaining connections with your f

Apr 29, 2019 • 1:10:34

15: What Makes Good Bourbon?

The winner of our Tournament of Whisky is finally announced. If you've stayed up with us on Instagram and our live feed, you may already know the winner.  We discuss the "controversy" surrounding our pick for best whiskey from our 16 selections. We also discuss if larger bourbon producers, like Woodford Reserve and Jim Beam, have a stigma in the industry.  We dive into another controversial product head on and debunk any negativity towards it.  And Jake hits us with the quote of the week when di

Apr 22, 2019 • 40:47

14: Falling For April Fools - Was Whiskey to Blame?

It's April, Fools! Scott pulls one over on Michael and Jake for April Fools Day in embarrassing fashion. We also continue the Tournament of Whiskey, completing our 1st round of 16 whiskies.  We announce the Elite 8 of our tournament. Listen along as we give a full recap of our notes on each whiskey and why we advanced each one to the next round. There were definitely some surprises in this tournament so stay tuned to see what advanced and which were upset early! The Elite Eight is set:  From la

Apr 15, 2019 • 54:27

13: Best Whiskey in The World?

We recorded this podcast on International Whisk(e)y Day and discover that there is an important purpose for this day. It is not just another "Hallmark Holiday". We also discuss our thoughts on the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, which recently named its "Best in Show Whiskey":  Heaven Hill's Henry McKenna 10 Year, Bottled In Bond, Single Barrel Bourbon. We also discuss the opening matchups of our own Tournament of Whiskey and whether we were surprised by any of the whiskies.  Find out m

Apr 8, 2019 • 57:34

12: Whiskey Madness - Tournament of Whiskey

In the style of March Madness and the NCAA Basketball Tournament, the Bourbon Lens creates a bracket of 16 whiskies from our home bars. We discuss the regions, seeding, and matchups of the 1st Annual Bourbon Lens Tournament of Whiskey.   Matchups by Region: 4 Regions (names only, not indicative of whiskey type) Rye Thomas H. Handy (1) JTS Brown BIB (16) Weller 107 (8) E.H Taylor Small Batch BIB (9) Finished Bourbon Angel’s Envy Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish (4) Legent (13) Kentucky Owl Rye Ba

Apr 1, 2019 • 34:13

11: Legent: Is it the Real Deal?

With the St. Patrick's Day holiday, what do we think about Irish Whiskey? Should we try Proper Twelve?  We discuss a bit of nostalgia with WWF and WCW wresting. And the crew weighs in on Jim Beam's newest whiskey, Legent, a collaboration between Jim Beam and Suntory.  Find out our thoughts on whether Legent can bring the Japanese whiskey drinkers to bourbon.And finally, we reveal our March Madness Tournament of Whiskey.   Whisky Advocate discusses Legent   Be sure to follow us @BourbonLens on In

Mar 25, 2019 • 41:12

10: Down The Rabbit Hole

The fellas take a trip to up-and-comer craft distiller Rabbit Hole Distillery. Rabbit Hole is located in Downtown Louisville, Kentucky and they are taking a more modern approach to the bourbon industry. We discuss our experience, their whiskies, and their Overlook Cocktail Bar and event space that will be open to the public as a swanky new place to hang out and socialize on weekends. Cheers! Rabbit Hole Distillery   Be sure to follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.   If you ha

Mar 18, 2019 • 40:23

09: Budget Bourbon Sipping

We discuss some of our recent travels, including Disney World and the bourbon selection you will find there and some drinking stories from the west coast. We also dive into budget bourbons under $20. You will find out some of our favorites from the "bottom (sic: budget) shelf" and some random banter.   Be sure to follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.   If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at TheBourbonLens@Gmail.com.   Visit our website Bourbon

Mar 11, 2019 • 35:17

08: Can Ghosts Really Make Whiskey?

We have a guest appearance on The Bourbon Lens from long time friend, Brad Wood. Brad shares his recent experience at the Boone County Distilling Company.  We discuss the smoke and mirrors behind sourced whiskey, contract distilling, and the role that MGP plays in it all. SHOW LINKS: Whisky Brands That Are Made at MGP  Instead of Fretting About How to Store Your Whiskey, Drink It All Immediately Www.BourbonWeekly.com   - satire stories about the ridiculous world of bourbon. MGP announces “tit ha

Mar 4, 2019 • 48:50

07: Who Saved the Bourbon Industry?

We discuss the importance of the millennial to the bourbon industry as well as marketing schemes and social media. Which one of these outlets should be credited with saving the bourbon industry and creating what we now call the Bourbon Boom? We also discuss what role the craft distillers play in all of this. We hope you enjoy this episode and also realize not all opinions align with ours. We would love to get your opinion and feedback! Cheers! Also, be sure to follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram

Feb 25, 2019 • 29:29

06: There's A New Rye on the Block

Old Forester Rye is the drink of the night and the secondary market goes wild driving its price up quickly. Michter's invades downtown Louisville. The Bourbon Lens will be making a visit soon It isn’t just the Bourbon Boom, Downtown Louisville is feeling the impact too. Goodwood Bourbon?  There is an unsolved mystery and Scott has the scoop. Show Links: Goodwood's New Bourbon Fred Minnick says not so fast! Old Forester 100 Proof Rye Michter's Fort Nelson Distillery Opening.   Also, be sure to fo

Feb 18, 2019 • 39:19

05: Kentucky Peerless Visit

We pay a visit Kentucky Peerless Distillery and provide our thoughts on the revived distillery brand.  We also discuss our thoughts on their rye whiskey and the processes they use as they prepare to launch their first bourbon. We also discuss the new partnership with the UFC and ESPN+ and if the first ever ESPN-UFC event was a bust or success.   See the links below for photos from our tour at Kentucky Peerless. Also, be sure to follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. If you hav

Feb 11, 2019 • 49:58

04: If You Could Only Have One Bourbon

The whole gang is here and we discuss why everyone freaks out in Kentucky when snow is in the forecast, Bryan taking advantage of the free sushi samples, and why Bryan is drinking Mich Ultra on The Bourbon Lens.  In bourbon news, Maker’s Mark filed a lawsuit against long-time partner Ted’s Cigars. We have some other conversations about food pairings with bourbon, work stressors and after-work drinks, one bourbon that we would pick if we could only have one for rest of time (had to currently be o

Feb 7, 2019 • 47:07

03: What's Your Proof?

This week on The Bourbon Lens we discuss best Christmas gifts, our thoughts on New Year’s resolutions, NFL Playoff predictions, and UK & U of L sports. We also discuss how to choose a bourbon at a bar that won’t break the bank, what proof whiskey we prefer, and where our next stops will be on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Be sure to follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please email us at TheBourbonLens@Gmail.com  Visit our w

Feb 1, 2019 • 55:30

02: Kentucky Bourbon Trail Experiences

In this episode, The Bourbon Lens team discusses a myriad of topics including upcoming college football playoffs, our Christmas & NYE plans, best gift ideas for your work Christmas parties, and the bourbon craze forcing us to find other readily available bourbons.  We also review of our most recent Kentucky Bourbon Trail visits at Buffalo Trace, Castle & Key, Old Forester, and Bulleit distilleries. Also, be sure to follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. Visit our website Bourb

Feb 1, 2019 • 48:57

01: Intro to The Bourbon Lens Podcast

Our first episode of The Bourbon Lens. Learn a little about each of us and the podcast in this short intro episode.  The goal of this podcast project is to replicate the types of things we talk about on a daily basis.  Whether it’s the latest sports stories and headlines, to obscure news, or even new products and content that we are consuming, we want to share with you what we share with each other.   There will be occasional bourbon reviews, frequent bourbon drinking, and lots of opinions fuele

Jan 29, 2019 • 9:24