EmbellishPod

Ben Holladay Bourbon: Blending History and Craft

Join us in this captivating episode of our podcast as we sit down with Kyle, the master distiller at Holladay Distillery, home of Ben Holladay Bourbon. Kyle shares his journey from biofuel production to master distilling, his agricultural roots, and the intricate process of bourbon making. We delve into the rich history of Holladay Distillery, the oldest west of the Mississippi, and explore how they resurrected their bourbon production with a commitment to tradition and quality.
Kyle gives us an insider's look at the art of blending, the significance of bottled-in-bond, and the importance of transparency in the bourbon industry. We also discuss the unique challenges and rewards of waiting six years to release their first bourbon, the nuances of selecting barrels for their one barrel program, and the excitement behind their recent Bourbon Lure blend release.
Whether you're a bourbon aficionado or simply curious about the science and stories behind distilling, this episode is a treasure trove of insights and anecdotes from the heart of bourbon country.
🥃 Episode Highlights:
Kyle's transition from biofuel to bourbon
The revival of Holladay Distillery's bourbon production
The science and strategy behind blending bourbon
The significance of bottled-in-bond designation
The process of creating the Bourbon Lore blend
The importance of music in the blending process
 
#Bourbon #Distilling #MasterDistiller #HolidayDistillery #BenHolidayBourbon #BottledInBond #WhiskeyPodcast #BourbonLure #BourbonHistory #CraftSpirits

Elevating the Bourbon Experience: What's New at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival

In this episode of the EmbellishPod, we delve into the intricacies of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival, a beloved annual event for bourbon enthusiasts. I am joined by Randy, the driving force behind the festival's transformation and success.
The conversation begins with a reflection on the festival's evolution, highlighting the shift towards a more bourbon-centric experience. Randy shares insights into the festival's history and the pivotal changes that were made to align with the needs of distilleries and bourbon enthusiasts. The focus on distilleries as the primary customer is emphasized, showcasing the festival's commitment to showcasing and celebrating the bourbon industry.
Randy and I  discuss the various enhancements and improvements made to the festival over the years, including the expansion of distillery participation, the introduction of craft distilleries, and the emphasis on creating a unique and engaging experience for attendees. The conversation touches on the importance of maintaining a balance between tradition and innovation, ensuring that the festival continues to evolve while staying true to its roots.
Key highlights of the upcoming festival are revealed, such as the addition of a People's Choice Award for distillery setups, the expansion of food truck offerings, and the introduction of an expanded VIP experience with enhanced amenities. We also discuss the significance of cocktails at the festival.
The episode concludes with details on the festival dates, ticket availability, and the importance of subscribing to the festival's e-marketing newsletter for exclusive access to ticket sales. The host expresses excitement for the upcoming festival and the opportunity for attendees to immerse themselves in the world of bourbon while enjoying the vibrant community of Bardstown.kybourbonfestival.com

Inside Keeper's Heart Distillery: A Conversation with Kate Douglas

Today I dive deep into the world of distilling and blending with Kate Douglas from Keeper's Heart. Kate shares her journey from studying fermentation science to becoming a skilled distiller.
 
We start by learning about Kate's background and how she transitioned from a chemistry major to pursuing her passion for distilling. She shares insights into the unique triple pot distillation process, crafting classic Irish-style whiskey and innovative blends of Irish and American whiskeys.
 
She delves into her experiences with blending different spirits, emphasizing the artistry and precision required to create harmonious flavor profiles.
 
The conversation shifts to the educational aspect of blending, with Kate explaining how Keeper's Heart offers blending classes to help consumers understand the components of their whiskeys. She also touches on the experimental side of distilling, including barrel finishes and unique collaborations with other beverages.
 
We explore the award-winning 10-year Irish single malt, a tribute to Brian's decision to move to Minneapolis. Kate shares the intricate flavors of this whiskey, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship behind Keeper's Heart products.
 
As the episode wraps up, we ponder the possibility of an advanced age Irish plus American blend, hinting at potential future innovations from Keeper's Heart. Join us on this insightful journey through the world of distilling and blending with Kate Douglas from Keeper's Heart. Cheers to the art of crafting exceptional spirits!
 
Connect with Keeper's Heart:
 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/keepersheartwhiskey
Twitter: https://twitter.com/keepersheart
Instagram: https://instagram.com/keepersheartwhiskey
 
Connect with Kate Douglas
 
Instagram: https://instagram.com/distillingdouglas

The Philosophy and Future of Westward Distillery with Miles Munroe

Join us in this captivating episode of EmbellishPod as we dive deep into the world of whiskey with a special focus on American Single Malt. Our guest(@miles_monroe), a master blender and global ambassador for Westward, shares his extensive knowledge and personal anecdotes from the industry. From the nuances of pairing Girl Scout cookies with whiskey to the complexities of blending and maturation techniques, this episode is a treasure trove for whiskey enthusiasts.
We explore the significance of the Girl Scout cookie season in the whiskey world, the personal research into sweets paired with whiskey, and the impact of different whiskey varieties on these pairings. Our guest also opens up about the balance between his social professional life and his introverted personal preferences, including his love for punk music and vinyl records.
As we delve into the art of whiskey making, we discuss the philosophy behind Westward's approach, the importance of creativity in the American Single Malt category, and the exciting new release of Westward's Milestone series. Plus, we touch on the unique aspects of the Oregon Straight Malt and the significance of the phrase "verum factum" on their bottles.
Whether you're a whiskey connoisseur or just curious about the craft, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the passion and craftsmanship that goes into every bottle of Westward whiskey.
🥃 Featured Whiskeys:
Westward American Single Malt
Westward Milestone Series
Various Westward Cask Finishes
🎵 Music and Personal Interests:
Punk Music and Vinyl Records
Personal Anecdotes and Influences
📚 Mentioned Books:
Appreciating Whiskey
Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more whiskey wisdom and insights from industry experts. Share your thoughts on the episode and let us know what you'd like to hear in future podcasts!
#WhiskeyPodcast #AmericanSingleMalt #WestwardWhiskey #GirlScoutCookies #MusicAndWhiskey #CraftDistilling #WhiskeyPairings #WhiskeyCulture #MilestoneSeries #OregonStraightMalt
Subscribe to our channel for more whiskey talks: @embellishpodFollow Westward on Instagram: @WestwardWhiskey

Exploring Whiskey's New Horizons: American Single Malts, Global Trends, and Afrofusion Cuisine

Join us in this episode of EmbellishPod as we dive into the world of whiskey with our special guest, Jack ( @HOODSOMMELIER  ) As a seasoned whiskey influencer and a father with a passion for seeing women excel in the industry, Jack shares his insights on the latest trends shaking up the whiskey scene. From the rise of American single malts to the exciting emergence of whiskeys from unexpected corners of the globe, this episode is a treasure trove for enthusiasts looking to expand their palate.
We also delve into the cultural fusion of whiskey with African cuisine, discussing Jack's Afrofusion events and his partnership with Heaven Hill. Jack's journey takes us from the heart of Kentucky to the potential of international whiskey experiences, highlighting the importance of diversity and exploration in the whiskey industry.
Whether you're a bourbon aficionado or a Scotch lover, this episode promises to broaden your horizons and introduce you to the multifaceted world of whiskey. So pour yourself a dram, sit back, and enjoy the ride as we traverse the globe through the lens of whiskey.
About Jack:https://hoodsom.com/https://www.facebook.com/hoodsommelier/https://www.instagram.com/hood_sommelier/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc5ic2XfHW4JHjnqWd1f9VA
Millennial entrepreneur, WSET ii Spirits expert, and content creative Toyi “Jack” Beguedou is building community through his spirited digital platform, the Hood Sommelier. Jack is a native of Togo in West Africa who currently resides in Omaha, Nebraska and is a proud “girl-dad” to his daughter Brennan.
Jack is the co-host of YouTube web series MONDAY SUCKS, founder of the trending, TRUTH IS BARREL PROOF PODCAST, SCOTCH SCHOOL education series, AFROFUSION food and spirits pairing series and owner of BEGUEDOU INSURANCE SERVICES LLC.
As a native French speaking immigrant, Jack resonates with the importance of creating community. His thoughtful and inspiring approach to content development focuses on humanizing the spirited consumer journey experience. Jack enjoys being an educational resource to both consumers and talent in the hospitality community. A community architect at heart, Jack bridges the gap between curious consumers at every level and brands through empowerment and engagement.

The Art of Whiskey Blending with David Mark Young from Golden Sheaf Whiskey Company

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing David Mark Young, the owner and master blender of Golden Sheaf Whiskey Company. We delved into his varied past, including his military background and his journey to becoming a whiskey brand owner.
David shared his passion for whiskey and how it evolved from a hobby to a full-blown obsession. He discussed the allure of the whiskey lifestyle and his love for the history and backstories behind different brands.
We also explored the concept of blending in the American whiskey market. David explained how blending has traditionally had a negative connotation, but he and other whiskey enthusiasts are working to change that perception. He emphasized the importance of creating unique and innovative blends that cater to different tastes and preferences.
David touched on the challenges of being a startup in the whiskey industry, including the financial constraints and the need for constant creativity and problem-solving. He shared his excitement for the future of Golden Chief and his plans to continue experimenting with different finishes and expressions.
Overall, this episode provided a fascinating insight into the world of whiskey blending and the journey of reviving a historic brand. David's passion and dedication to his craft were evident throughout the conversation, making it an engaging and informative listen for whiskey enthusiasts and novices alike.
 
Golden Sheaf Whiskey
Website: GoldenSheafWhiskey.com
Social Media:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/GoldenSheafWhiskey
Twitter: www.twitter.com/GoldenSheafWhiskey
Instagram: www.instagram.com/GoldenSheafWhiskey
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/goldensheafwhiskey

The Art of Whiskey Blending with Doc Swinson's Jesse Parker

In this episode of the Embellish podcast, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Jesse Parker, the master blender and one of the founders of Doc Swinson's. Jesse shared his journey into the world of whiskey blending, the challenges of creating unique flavor profiles, and the philosophy behind Doc Swinson's approach to whiskey.
Jesse recounted the origins of Doc Swinson's, which started as a pet project within Distillers Way. The team's passion for brown spirits and their encounters with various distilleries led them to buy older stocks of whiskey and experiment with their own brand. Doc Swinson's was born out of a desire to create a signature whiskey that was both entertaining and reflective of their love for the craft.
Jesse delved into the intricacies of blending and maturation, emphasizing that their focus is not on distillation but on creating unique blends and finishes. He explained that a significant portion of their production is sourced from M.G.P.I., with whom they've had a symbiotic relationship since 2015. Jesse's passion for barrels and his extensive collection from around the world play a crucial role in the finishing process, which sets Doc Swinson's apart in the market.
We discussed the difficulties of naming whiskey releases, a task Jesse finds particularly challenging. He also touched on the importance of transparency in their brand, sharing as much information as possible about their blending and processing methods.
Looking ahead, Jesse teased some of the exciting new releases planned for the year, including multi-cask finishes and unique expressions like a rye whiskey finished in rum and tawny port casks. He also mentioned the arrival of rare casks, such as 23-plus-year-old Pinot de Charente casks, which promise to bring new dimensions to their future blends.https://www.docswhiskey.com/https://www.instagram.com/docswinsonswhiskey/https://www.facebook.com/DocSwinsonsBourbonhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkx_asWXpaofVsDRNscv7Zg

Crafting Unique Bourbon Experiences: A Conversation with Casey Jones Distillery

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Cody Turner from Casey Jones Distillery, located in western Kentucky. We delved into the history and ethos of the brand, as well as their unique approach to crafting bourbon.
Cody shared the fascinating story of Casey Jones, the namesake of the distillery, who was a still builder during Prohibition. Casey's claim to fame was his ability to create unique square pot stills, which eventually led to his arrest. However, the federal government later commissioned him to build a still for the Land Between the Lakes area.
We discussed the different expressions offered by Casey Jones Distillery, including their moonshine, barrel cut bourbons, and their upcoming releases. Cody highlighted their commitment to transparency, with detailed information about mash bills and barrel aging on their labels.
We also explored the growing trends in the bourbon industry, such as blending, transparent sourcing, and finishing casks. Cody emphasized that Casey Jones Distillery is well-positioned to excel in the finishing category, with their barrel cut product serving as a versatile tool for creating unique and flavorful expressions.
Lastly, we discussed the various experiences offered at the distillery, including tours and tastings, as well as their upcoming special events and releases. Cody invited listeners to join their email newsletter and follow them on social media for updates on these exciting offerings.
 
https://www.caseyjonesdistillery.com/https://www.facebook.com/caseyjonesdistilleryhttps://www.instagram.com/caseyjonesdistillery/https://www.youtube.com/c/caseyjonesdistilleryhttps://www.tiktok.com/@caseyjonesdistilleryhttps://twitter.com/CaseysCut

The Rise of Dark Arts Whiskey House: A Conversation with Macaulay Minton

In this episode I am  joined by Macaulay Minton, the master blender, chief alchemist, and president of Dark Arts Whiskey House.
Macaulay shares his journey in the whiskey industry, starting from his days studying brewing and distillation in college to his various roles at a distillery. He emphasizes the importance of blending and the role of the master blender in creating exceptional whiskey.
Macaulay also discusses the concept behind Dark Arts Whiskey House, which honors the process of alchemy and aims to transform ordinary whiskey into liquid gold. He talks about his approach to finishing barrels, including Pinot Noir and Armagnac, and the unique flavors they bring to the whiskey. 
We also touch on the upcoming releases and the innovative projects Dark Arts Whiskey House is working on. 
https://www.darkartswhiskey.com/http://instagram.com/darkartswhiskeyhttps://www.instagram.com/thebourbonswami/

Don't Be Distracted: Age Statements, NDPs, and Craft Labels in the Whiskey World

In this episode I share my recommendations and highlights from the whiskey world for the year 2024. Discussing the growing trend of creating top drink lists and worst drink lists, expressing my dislike for these types of rankings. Instead, I offer suggestions and brands to watch out for in the coming year.
I recommend attending whiskey events and meetups to broaden one's palate and understanding of the marketplace. I also mention the Kentucky Bourbon Festival as a must-visit event in September 2024. There are also subscription services to try a variety of selected whiskeys from different brands.
Individual taste preferences reign supreme and I encourage listeners to explore different brands and offerings. I caution against getting caught up in age statements, non-distilling producers, and craft labels, focusing instead on whether you personally enjoy the whiskey.
I then share my own tasting experiences from 2023, categorizing the whiskeys based on their scores in different categories. I highlight brands that stood out in each category, including Frank August, Barrel, Wilderness Trail, Old Line Spirits, New Riff, and more.
I also discusses the divisive nature of Amburana finishes and recommend paying attention to brands like Barrell Craft Spirits, Dark Arts, and Fortuna. I briefly mention the Elijah Craig barrel proof releases and Booker's releases as must-try whiskeys for bourbon enthusiasts.
Last but certainly not least the rise of American single malts and recommending paying attention to brands like Old Line Spirits and New Riff. They also mention the success of smoked whiskeys and recommend trying offerings from Spirits of French Lick and Santa Fe Spirits.