EmbellishPod

Legacy and Innovation with Rolling Fork

In this episode of EmbellishPod, I had the pleasure of speaking with Jordan, one of the founders of Rolling Fork Spirits. We delved into the fascinating world of spirits, discussing everything from the origins of Rolling Fork to the intricacies of blending and bottling various types of alcohol. If you haven't already, please take a moment to hit the subscribe button on your preferred podcast platform. You can also find video versions of this podcast on YouTube and all my links on Instagram and TikTok at @embellishpod. For more details, visit my website at www.embellishpod.com.
Jordan is a co-founder and blender at Rolling Fork Spirits, a company known for its diverse range of high-quality spirits. The company started with Rolling Fork Rum and has since expanded to include Wayward Cask, which features Calvados and Armagnacs from France, and Bourbon Deluxe, a Prohibition-era label they recently revived.
The Origins of Rolling Fork Spirits
Rolling Fork Spirits: Jordan explained that Rolling Fork Spirits is the parent company, with Rolling Fork Rum being their most well-known product.
Expansion: The company has expanded to include Wayward Cask and Bourbon Deluxe, each offering unique and high-quality spirits.
Historical Ties: Jordan's business partner, Turner, comes from the Wathen family, a name deeply rooted in the history of Kentucky bourbon.
Bourbon Deluxe Revival
Historical Significance: Bourbon Deluxe was a Prohibition-era label that Jordan and Turner revived after Jim Beam abandoned the trademark.
Marketing and Branding: They aimed to maintain the vintage feel of the original label, including quirky taglines like "Glorious Sunshine of a Thousand Ages" and "The Zenith of Possibility in Whiskey Quality."
The Journey into Rum and Other Spirits
Initial Focus on Rum: Jordan discussed why they chose to start with rum, a spirit often underappreciated in the U.S. market but highly valued in Europe.
Armagnac and Calvados: They later ventured into these spirits, which are beloved by industry insiders but not widely known among the general public.
Blending and Bottling
Blending Process: Jordan shared insights into their meticulous blending process, which involves selecting barrels based on specific criteria and balancing flavors to achieve the desired profile.
Challenges and Strategies: He also talked about the challenges of blending, such as dealing with "bad barrels" and how to incorporate them into a blend without compromising quality.
Market Dynamics and Pricing
Value Proposition: Rolling Fork Spirits aims to offer high-quality spirits at reasonable prices. For example, their 25-year-old Calvados is priced at $149, a rarity in the market.
Market Trends: Jordan touched on market trends, including the impact of COVID-19 on the spirits industry and the rising popularity of agave spirits.
Personal Anecdotes and Stories
Historical Anecdotes: Jordan shared a captivating story about an 1898 vintage Armagnac that was hidden in the walls of a house during the Nazi invasion, illustrating the rich history and craftsmanship behind these spirits.
Industry Insights: He also provided insights into the independent bottling scene, comparing it to the more familiar concept of non-distilling producers in the U.S.
This episode offers a deep dive into the world of spirits, from the historical roots of Rolling Fork Spirits to the complexities of blending and bottling. Whether you're a spirits enthusiast or just curious about the industry, this conversation with Jordan provides valuable insights and fascinating stories. Don't forget to subscribe, and check out the video versions on YouTube and all my links on Instagram and TikTok at @embellishpod. For more details, visit www.embellishpod.com.

Inside Castle and Key with Brett Connors

Welcome to another exciting episode of the EmbellishPod! In this episode, we sit down with Brett Connors from Castle & Key to delve into the fascinating world of whiskey, historic preservation, and innovative distilling practices.
Brett shares his journey from the hospitality industry to becoming a key player at Castle & Key, a distillery known for its unique blend of modern whiskey-making techniques and historic preservation. We discuss the challenges and rewards of reviving an old distillery site, the importance of maintaining a balance between tradition and innovation, and the meticulous process behind their latest releases, including the much-anticipated seven-year cask strength wheated bourbon.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Introduction and housekeeping00:00:44 - Brett Connors' background and journey to Castle & Key00:01:56 - The significance of the Castle & Key site and its history00:03:13 - The process of reviving a historic distillery00:07:56 - Balancing modern whiskey-making with historical preservation00:12:43 - Measuring success and future goals for Castle & Key00:20:14 - Launching new products and the importance of age statements00:24:02 - The role of rye whiskey and experimental series at Castle & Key00:31:11 - The philosophy behind barrel finishing and future releases
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#Podcast #Whiskey #CastleAndKey #HistoricPreservation #Innovation #Patience #NewEpisode

Exploring the World of Whiskey with Ari from Outsider Spirits

In this episode of the EmbellishPod, we dive deep into the world of whiskey with Ari Sussman from Outsider Spirits. Join us as we explore the innovative journey behind Whiskey JYPSI, a brand that defies the norms of celebrity spirits. Ari shares the fascinating story of how country musician Eric Church and serial entrepreneur Raj Elva came together to create a whiskey brand that truly stands out.
Topics Covered:
The inception of Outsider Spirits and the collaboration between Eric Church and Raj Elva.
The unique approach to creating Whiskey JYPSI, blending international whiskeys and exploring new whiskey categories.
The importance of quality and authenticity in celebrity spirits.
The innovative use of different woods and casks in the Explorer Series.
The significance of grain selection and the use of heritage grains in whiskey production.
Future plans for Whiskey Gypsy and the exciting releases to come.
Key Highlights:
00:00:07 - Introduction and how to connect with EmbellishPod.
00:01:00 - Ari introduces Outsider Spirits and the vision behind it.
00:03:41 - The challenge of creating high-quality celebrity spirits.
00:08:03 - Ari's background and his role in Whiskey JYPSI.
00:17:00 - The Explorer Series and the use of oak from the Troncais Forest.
00:27:10 - Future international spirits and blending possibilities.
00:33:33 - The importance of grain selection and heritage grains.
00:43:25 - Future plans for Whiskey JYPSI and upcoming releases.
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#WhiskeyJYPSI #OutsiderSpirits #EricChurch #CelebritySpirits #WhiskeyBlending #HeritageGrains #EmbellishPod #WhiskeyPodcast

A Deep Dive with Jose Valdez of Tequila Partida

In this episode of the Embellish Pod, I had the pleasure of speaking with Jose Valdez, the Maestro Tequilero and guardian of quality at Tequila Partida. This episode is a deep dive into the world of tequila, exploring everything from the cultivation of agave plants to the intricate details of the distillation and aging processes.
Introduction
The episode kicks off with a brief introduction about the podcast and where listeners can find it. I then introduce Jose Valdez, who provides a fascinating overview of his role at Tequila Partida and his journey into the tequila industry.
Jose Valdez's Journey
Jose shares his background, starting from his studies in industrial engineering to his initial work in the manufacturing electronic industry. Dissatisfied with his career, he sought a more fulfilling path and found his way into the tequila industry. He recounts meeting Gary Shasby, an American investor looking to create a new tequila brand that would compete with the likes of Patron and Don Julio but with a more authentic and natural approach.
The Essence of Authentic Tequila
Jose explains the concept of "additive-free" tequila, a cornerstone of Tequila Partida's philosophy. He elaborates on the Mexican laws that allow up to 1% of additives in tequila and how Tequila Partida chooses to go beyond these regulations to create a more natural product.
The Tequila-Making Process
We delve into the detailed process of making tequila, starting with the cultivation of the Blue Tequilana Weber agave plant. Jose explains the importance of the plant's maturity, the harvesting process, and the subsequent steps of cooking, milling, fermentation, and distillation. He emphasizes the significance of using fresh agave and the unique volcanic water from Tequila Valley, which contributes to the distinct flavor profile of Tequila Partida.
Fermentation and Distillation
Jose provides insights into the fermentation process, highlighting the use of natural yeast and the importance of fermentation time in developing the tequila's flavor. He also discusses the distillation process using pot stills, which helps in maintaining the quality and consistency of the final product.
Aging and Barrel Selection
We explore the aging process of tequila, where Jose explains the use of ex-bourbon barrels and the meticulous selection process for creating their aged products. He shares the challenges and intricacies of barrel aging, including the impact of climate and barrel position on the final flavor.
Single Barrel Añejo Project
Jose introduces Tequila Partida's Single Barrel Añejo project, a special initiative to celebrate their 20th anniversary. He describes the rigorous selection process for these unique barrels and the opportunity for consumers to experience a one-of-a-kind tequila.
Personal Connection to Tequila
Towards the end of the episode, Jose shares his personal connection to tequila, recounting memories of his father enjoying tequila on Sundays and how this influenced his respect and passion for the spirit.
Conclusion
We wrap up the episode with a heartfelt thank you to Jose for sharing his extensive knowledge and passion for tequila. This episode offers a comprehensive look into the world of Tequila Partida and the dedication to quality that sets them apart in the industry.
Tune in to this episode to gain a deeper appreciation for tequila and the artistry behind Tequila Partida. Whether you're a tequila aficionado or a curious newcomer, this episode is packed with valuable insights and fascinating stories.
 
00:00:00 - Introduction and Subscription Request00:00:32 - Guest Introduction: Jose from Tequila Partida00:01:16 - Jose's Role and Title: Maestro Tequilero00:02:17 - Jose's Background and Journey to Tequila Partida00:05:10 - Authenticity and Additive-Free Tequila00:07:09 - Overview of Tequila Production Process00:12:07 - Challenges of Agave Cultivation and Sourcing00:16:16 - Changes in the Tequila Industry and Consumer Trends00:19:29 - Focus on Quality and Freshness in Agave Selection00:21:03 - Cooking and Milling Process00:25:20 - Importance of Water in Tequila Production00:28:01 - Fermentation Process and Yeast Management00:32:01 - Distillation Process and Consistency00:36:03 - Deciding Between Blanco and Aged Tequila00:38:14 - Aging Process and Barrel Selection00:41:04 - Single Barrel Añejo Project00:45:02 - Batching and Blending for Consistency00:49:59 - Jose's Personal Connection to Tequila00:53:41 - Conclusion and Appreciation

Building a Whiskey Community with Single Cask Nation

In this episode of EmbellishPod, I had the pleasure of welcoming Josh and Jason from Single Cask Nation, a pioneering independent bottler in the whiskey industry. We dove deep into the fascinating world of independent bottling, exploring its significance in the whiskey landscape, particularly in the United States, where it is still a relatively novel concept.
We kicked off the conversation with an introduction to Single Cask Nation, where Josh and Jason shared their journey from whiskey enthusiasts to independent bottlers. They recounted how their passion for whiskey led them to champion lesser-known distilleries and how they aim to highlight unique expressions of whiskey that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Jason took us through his personal journey into whiskey, starting from his university days in Aberdeen, where he discovered the joys of single malts. He reminisced about his early experiences and how they shaped his love for whiskey. Josh, on the other hand, shared a compelling story about his transition from being straight edge to discovering the rich flavors of whiskey, particularly through his first encounter with Lagavulin 16. This moment sparked his deep dive into the world of whiskey, showcasing how flavors can evoke powerful memories and emotions.
As we continued our discussion, we touched on the challenges of selecting casks for bottling. Jason explained their meticulous selection process, emphasizing the importance of texture and the connection between the nose and palate. They shared insights into how they taste through numerous casks, often experiencing minimal disagreement due to their shared passion and understanding of quality whiskey.
We also explored the evolution of their brand and the role of social media in building a community around Single Cask Nation. Josh highlighted the positive atmosphere in their Facebook group, where members engage in supportive discussions about whiskey, share experiences, and connect with one another. This sense of community has been crucial in maintaining authenticity and trust with their audience.
Towards the end of the episode, we discussed the balance between education and production, as they navigate their roles as both educators and independent bottlers. They emphasized their commitment to transparency and authenticity, ensuring that their recommendations and products reflect their genuine passion for whiskey.
Overall, this episode was a rich exploration of the independent bottling world, filled with personal anecdotes, insights into the whiskey selection process, and a celebration of the community that surrounds this beloved spirit. I hope you enjoy listening to it as much as I enjoyed having this enlightening conversation with Josh and Jason from Single Cask Nation.
 
00:00:00 - Introduction to EmbellishPod00:00:47 - Meet the Guests: Single Cask Nation00:01:06 - What is Single Cask Nation?00:02:54 - Jason's Journey into Whisky00:05:48 - Josh's Unique Introduction to Whisky00:07:01 - The Nostalgia of Whisky00:10:02 - Musical Background: Josh's Passion for Bass00:11:41 - Jason's Love for Pool00:12:51 - Daily Drinkers: What They Enjoy00:15:15 - Exploring Independent Bottling00:21:02 - Selection Process for Casks00:25:51 - Disagreements in Selection00:29:07 - Challenges of Independent Bottling in the U.S.00:34:54 - Maintaining Authenticity and Trust00:40:02 - The Role of Social Media00:42:04 - Community Building through Social Media00:49:36 - Final Thoughts on Social Media

The Cult of Cigars: From Mayan Rituals to Modern Craft

Welcome to another episode of The Embellish Pod! 🎙️ I'm your host, John Hughes, and today we're exploring the fascinating world of cigar tobacco. From ancient Mayan rituals to modern cigar craftsmanship, this episode covers it all. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado or just curious about cigars, you'll find something intriguing in this deep dive.
In This Episode:
History of Tobacco: Discover how the Mayans first cultivated tobacco and its sacred significance.
European Introduction: Learn about Columbus's encounter with tobacco and its journey to Europe.
Cigar Tobacco Cultivation: Understand the meticulous process of growing and curing tobacco, from seed to leaf.
Global Growing Regions: Explore the unique characteristics of tobacco from Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, Ecuador, and more.
Types of Tobacco: Get to know the different types of tobacco leaves used in premium cigars, including wrappers, binders, and fillers.
Cigar Culture: Delve into the rich history and evolving culture of cigar smoking, from European nobility to modern-day enthusiasts.
Impact of the Cuban Embargo: Uncover how the 1962 embargo transformed the cigar industry and led to innovations in tobacco cultivation and cigar blending.
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Thanks for tuning in! Cheers and happy smoking! 🚬✨
#Cigars #Tobacco #CigarCulture #CigarHistory #CubanCigars #PremiumCigars #CigarAficionado #EmbellishPod #Podcast #JohnHughes

Bourbon Lovers' Guide to Discovering Armagnac

Welcome to another episode of The Embellish Pod! I'm your host, John Hughes, and today we're diving deep into the rich and fascinating world of Armagnac. Whether you're a seasoned spirits enthusiast or just curious about this historic French brandy, this episode has something for you.
In this episode, we cover:
The history of Armagnac, from its medicinal beginnings in the 15th century to its modern-day revival.
The unique production process that sets Armagnac apart from other spirits, including its single distillation in an Alambic Armagnac still.
The different classifications of Armagnac, from VS to XO and beyond.
The regulations that ensure the authenticity and quality of Armagnac.
Notable Armagnac producers and brands making waves in the industry today.
The role of independent bottlers in the Armagnac market.
Why bourbon lovers might find Armagnac intriguing and worth exploring.
If you enjoyed this deep dive into the world of Armagnac, please leave a review and let us know your thoughts. Your feedback helps the show grow and reach more spirits enthusiasts.
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Thanks for tuning in, and until next time, cheers and happy sipping! 🍷
#Armagnac #Spirits #Brandy #FrenchBrandy #Bourbon #CraftSpirits #TheEmbellishPod #JohnHughes #Podcast #History #Distillation #AOC #Craftsmanship #IndependentBottlers #Sustainability #Cocktails #Terroir

Rice Whiskey: Bridging Asian Heritage and American Craft

Welcome to another episode of The Embellished Pod! 🌾🥃 Join host John Hughes as we embark on an epic journey through time and across continents to uncover the fascinating story of rice whiskey in America. From the ancient traditions of Asia to modern innovations in Louisiana, this episode dives deep into the unique world of rice whiskey.
In This Episode:
Historical Context: Learn about the origins of rice whiskey, tracing back to ancient China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia.
Technical Insights: Discover the science behind rice whiskey production, including the challenges and opportunities presented by rice as a grain.
American Innovation: Explore how J.T. Mellick Distillers in Louisiana, led by Mike Frugier, is revolutionizing American whiskey by using rice.
Agricultural Heritage: Understand the complex history of rice cultivation in America, including the contributions and exploitation of enslaved Africans.
Modern Practices: Get a glimpse into the current state of rice farming in the U.S., from Arkansas to California, and how climate twins influence agricultural practices.
Sustainability Efforts: Learn about the environmental challenges and innovative solutions in rice farming and whiskey production.
Future Prospects: Hear about the exciting future of rice whiskey, including new fermentation techniques, grain bills, and distillation technologies.
Whether you're a whiskey enthusiast, a history buff, or someone interested in agricultural innovation, this episode has something for you. Don't miss out on this deep dive into the world of rice whiskey!
Listen Now: [Link to Podcast Episode]
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#RiceWhiskey #AmericanWhiskey #CraftSpirits #AgriculturalHistory #TheEmbellishedPod #JohnHughes #WhiskeyProduction #Sustainability #Innovation #TraditionMeetsInnovation

Unlocking the Secrets of Amburana

Welcome, spirits enthusiasts and curious listeners alike! In this episode of The Embellished Pod, your host Jon Huth takes you on an extensive journey into the fascinating world of Amburana wood. 🌳✨
From the lush forests of South America to the rolling hills of Kentucky, discover how Amburana is not just expanding the game but rewriting the rules in the spirits industry. Learn about its unique properties, its impact on spirit making, and its cultural significance in Brazil.
🔍 What You'll Learn:
The scientific history and unique properties of Amburana wood.
How Amburana is grown and the challenges of its cultivation.
The role of Amburana in Brazilian cachaça production.
Innovative uses of Amburana in South American and American whiskey.
The importance of sustainable practices and cultural respect in the use of Amburana.
🌟 Highlights:
The biodiversity of the Caatinga biome, the native home of Amburana.
The agroforestry systems used to cultivate Amburana.
Award-winning Amburana-aged spirits making waves in the global market.
The future of Amburana in the spirits industry and the importance of sustainability.
Don't miss this deep dive into the world of Amburana, a remarkable tree that's transforming the spirits industry. Whether you're a seasoned spirits enthusiast or just curious, this episode is packed with insights and stories that will captivate you.
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If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and comment below. Don't forget to hit the subscribe button and follow us on social media to stay updated with our latest episodes. Thanks for tuning in!
#Amburana #SpiritsIndustry #Cachaca #Whiskey #Sustainability #TheEmbellishedPod #JonHuth #Podcast #SpiritsEnthusiast #BrazilianCulture #Agroforestry

The Business of Bourbon Barrels: Insights from CaskX

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Embellish Pod! In this episode, we sit down with Jeremy Kasler from CaskX to explore the fascinating world of bourbon barrel investments. 🎙️
Jeremy shares his journey from England to Los Angeles and how he became involved in the unique niche of tangible asset diversification through bourbon barrels. We delve into the intricacies of CaskX, a company that allows accredited investors to invest in new filled barrels of bourbon, manage them, and potentially see significant returns over time.
Key Topics Discussed:
The concept and origins of CaskX
How CaskX operates and the investment process
The growing global demand for bourbon
The emotional and financial dividends of investing in bourbon barrels
The potential risks and insurance measures in place
Future plans for CaskX, including possible expansions into other spirits and wines
Whether you're a bourbon enthusiast, an investor looking for unique opportunities, or just curious about the behind-the-scenes of the bourbon industry, this episode is packed with valuable insights.
Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction00:13 - Welcome and housekeeping00:44 - Introducing Jeremy Kasler from CaskX01:16 - Jeremy's background and journey02:35 - What is CaskX?04:18 - Investment details and aging process06:09 - The origins of CaskX08:18 - How to become an investor10:50 - Purchasing barrels and managing investments14:29 - Global demand and market dynamics20:21 - Impact of tariffs on bourbon exports24:49 - Identifying distillery partners28:38 - Minimum investment requirements31:42 - Managing and tracking barrel inventory33:07 - VIP tours and tasting opportunities35:12 - Emotional and financial dividends37:16 - Future plans and potential expansions42:03 - Insurance and risk management44:53 - Exploring other spirits and wines47:59 - Connecting investors with end products49:58 - Creative ideas for investor perks
Connect with CaskX:
Website: www.caskx.comEmail: sales@caskx.com
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#Bourbon #Investing #CaskX #WhiskeyInvestment #BourbonBarrels #TangibleAssets #EmbellishPod #Podcast #JeremyKessler #BourbonBoom #Whiskey #InvestmentOpportunities