Bourbon Pursuit
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The Official Podcast of Bourbon! The best in news, reviews and interviews with people making the bourbon whiskey industry happen. Join hosts Kenny Coleman, Ryan Cecil, and Fred Minnick as they talk with prominent guests and provide insight on American whiskey 3 times a week. Catch all new episodes every Thursday with special Whiskey Quickie reviews on Tuesday and get caught up on bourbon news with This Week in Bourbon on Friday.
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It’s time for another Bourbon Community Roundtable, and we’re diving straight into the tectonic shift that just rocked the industry. In this episode, we dissect the confirmed mutual interest between Brown-Forman and Pernod Ricard. Following the massive news of Gallo’s acquisition of Four Roses, we’re debating what this level of consolidation means for the "little guy" and whether craft producers are about to get squeezed off the shelf entirely. We’re navigating the anxiety surrounding job security and brand identity, wondering if icons like Old Forester and Woodford Reserve can maintain their soul under Pernod’s management. We’re breaking down the hype, the heartbreak, and the reality of a changing landscape in 2026. Pour a glass and join the conversation.
Show Notes:
In-depth analysis of the Brown-Forman and Pernod Ricard merger
Discussion on distribution effects for smaller whiskey brands
Concerns regarding Brown-Forman's community contributions and local charities
Insights into the future of Old Forester and Woodford Reserve
Speculation on changes in Kentucky Derby sponsorships
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Angel’s Envy’s 2025 10 year cask strength release brings port-finished richness, deep oak, dark fruit syrup, and wild berry pastry vibes at 122.6 proof. We break down why this limited annual release might be one of their most balanced yet.DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.
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It's This Week in Bourbon for April 3rd 2026. Brown-Forman Corp. and Pernod Ricard have confirmed mutual interest in a merger, two lawsuits have been dismissed for competing bourbon brands, and Larrikin Bourbon has released its third annual “Pour for the Roses".
Show Notes:
Brown-Forman and Pernod Ricard confirm mutual interest in a "merger of equals" to consolidate two of the world's largest spirits portfolios while maintaining family control
Green River Distilling parts ways with Head Distiller Aaron Harris as the Owensboro facility faces further workforce contractions
LF Heritage Distilling Co. property ordered to foreclosure and sale following a $5 million debt dispute with construction contractors
MGP Ingredients clears securities fraud lawsuit after a judge rules leadership mismanaged market shifts rather than intentionally misleading investors
Brough Brothers loses appeals court challenge against Fresh Bourbon over the "first" Black-owned Kentucky distillery claim
Larrikin Bourbon launches "Pour for the Roses – 2026 Running," a 9-year single barrel expression featuring vintage feed bag packaging for the Kentucky Derby
Proof & Wood introduces its first Bottled in Bond expression with an 11-year Tumblin’ Dice Straight Bourbon featuring a unique 99% corn mashbill
Hard Truth Distilling Co. debuts its first 7-year age-stated trio, featuring Sweet Mash Rye, Bourbon, and Wheated Bourbon crafted entirely on their Indiana campus
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Does the whiskey industry need more experts, or does it just need better storytellers? Today, we’re joined by Daniel Whittington, the Chancellor of Wizard Academy and co-founder of the Whiskey Marketing School, and we talk about how narrative and community are the real drivers behind your favorite bottles. Daniel shares his transition from the wine world into how a secret whiskey group eventually evolved into a mission to change how we educate our palates. There's more to the pour and it's the technical and psychological side of the whiskey that I really enjoy when I watch Daniel's videos. As one of the OGs of the YouTube world, he built an incredible community with Whiskey Tribe and but things hit a stopping point with his co-host and we talk about how that impacts relationships, friendships, and how the public eye percieves it. But he's also champtioning independant bottlers with a whole new look on tranparency and why those bottles are something you should be looking for.
Show Notes:
The community-centered mission of Difference Bourbon
Daniel’s transition from wine to whiskey and its impact
The role of storytelling in whiskey education
Insights on the evolving quality of whiskey and the importance of connection
The rise and challenges of the Whiskey Tribe YouTube channel
Navigating audience engagement and content creation
Clarifying whiskey classifications for consumer education
The launch of AmericanIndy.com focused on transparency in independent bottling
Celebrating the human connections within the whiskey community
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Garrison Brothers returns with the 2025 Cowboy Bourbon, a hazmat-level 146.4 proof Texas release hand-selected by master distiller Donnis Todd. With bold vanilla cola, cream soda sweetness, peppery Texas spice, and deep barrel intensity, this high-proof bourbon delivers big flavor without overwhelming heat. We break down whether this limited annual release is truly worth the hype and the $250 price tag.DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.
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It's This Week in Bourbon for March 27th 2026. Uncle Nearest back at it again, Heaven Hill Distillery has announced the inaugural release of Elijah Craig Single Barrel 15-Year-Old, and Evan Williams is releasing five limited-edition Single Barrel Bourbon Nation Collegiate Edition bottles.Show Notes:
Van Gogh Fast feature film set to shoot at Kentucky Bourbon Trail distilleries this spring
Receiver requests gag order and $75,000 in sanctions against Uncle Nearest founder Fawn Weaver
Reyes Beverage Group to acquire RNDC operations across 10 states and Washington, D.C.
Bardstown Bourbon Co. countersues former HR VP over alleged disclosure of confidential information
Gulf Coast package stores sue Ruan Transport over state liquor warehouse software glitch
Remus Bourbon launches Remus Bottle Club quarterly direct-to-consumer subscription service
Four Roses Distillery debuts permanent “Meet Me With Four Roses” brand campaign
Heaven Hill Distillery adds Elijah Craig Single Barrel 15-Year-Old Bourbon to permanent portfolio
Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. debuts 10-Year-Old Henry Kraver’s Reserve Bourbon
Jake Norris returns to Colorado craft scene with The Curated Barrel Project online-only releases
Blue Run Spirits and Atlanta Braves partner for commemorative 60th-anniversary bourbon
Buffalo Trace Distillery unveils $550 Daniel Weller Spelt Wheat aged 10 years
Evan Williams drops five limited-edition Single Barrel Bourbon Nation Collegiate Edition bottles
Jack Daniel’s announces sweepstakes for latest Aged Series bottle releases in Lynchburg
Lux Row Distillers announces Blood Oath Pact 12 finished in Italian wine casks
Horse Soldier Bourbon launches ultra-premium 13-year Liberty Edition for America’s 250th anniversary
National Bourbon Week returns to Bardstown, Kentucky, June 14-21, 2026
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Can a North Carolina distillery really take on the heavyweights of the Bluegrass? Today, we’re joined by Pete Barger, the co-founder of Southern Distilling Company, to talk about how he’s disrupting the craft bourbon landscape from just outside of Charlotte. Pete brings a unique background of engineering and agricultural expertise to the table, and he’s sharing the story of how they built a massive, state-of-the-art operation that’s doing everything from contract distilling for powerhouses like Brothers Bond to winning double golds with their own Paragon wheated bourbon. Pete breaks down their commitment to regenerative farming and how sourcing local North Carolina grains creates a flavor profile that stands out in a crowded market. We also taste their American Single Malt and just wait until you hear Ryan's reaction. This is what American Single Malt has been missing.
Show Notes:
The craft bourbon movement's landscape in North Carolina
Merging engineering with whiskey-making
Tackling the whisky provenance debate: quality vs. origin
Collaboration insights: Brothers Bond and regenerative agriculture
The role of barrel selection and innovative finishes
The introduction of honey-cask bourbon and its market strategy
Future plans for Southern Distilling and commitment to community
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H.K. Young leans into the wheated bourbon craze with a 7 year, 122.4 proof release finished in two custom toasted oak barrels from Independent Stave Company. We dive into the cranberry, raisin, juicy fruit gum sweetness and bold toasted oak to see if this hyped wheated bourbon lives up to expectations.DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.
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It's This Week in Bourbon for March 20th 2026. Uncle Nearest Saga has taken a wild twist, Kentucky Bourbon Festival has announced ticket sale dates, and Bardstown Bourbon Company will release its Distillery Reserve Cascadia Garryana Oak Barrel Finish.Show Notes:
Uncle Nearest founder Fawn Weaver files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and countersues lender for $529M
Court receiver moves to block Uncle Nearest bankruptcy filing and seeks $75K in sanctions
Judge stays $2.6M sale of Uncle Nearest Martha’s Vineyard property pending independent appraisals
Chicken Cock Whiskey rebrands Louisville speakeasy as “The Coupe” with grand opening March 26
Kentucky Bourbon Festival 35th anniversary tickets go on sale April 14 for September event
Lux Row Distillers debuts Lux Row Estate Bourbon featuring corn grown on-site
Evan Williams adds 65-proof Blackberry expression to its nationwide flavored whiskey portfolio
Barrell Craft Spirits introduces multi-cask finished Barrell Cigar Blend Bourbon for $85
Augusta Distillery launches cask-strength Small Batch and Wheated Single Barrel expressions
Blue Note Bourbon reveals 2026 Special Reserve featuring a nine-cask finish blend
Booker’s Bourbon kicks off 2026 with 129.1-proof "Big Easy" Batch
Bardstown Bourbon Company unveils Distillery Reserve Cascadia Garryana Oak Barrel Finish
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Is American Brandy finally ready to step out of bourbon's shadow? Today, we’re joined by Rob Bourdon, the new owner of Copper & Kings, to discuss his vision for revitalizing one of Louisville’s most creative distilleries. I've had the great pleasure of knowing Rob for years because he was part of Tennesee Distilling Group and led a lot of their new fill and barrel contracts. Rob shares his past where was professional hockey player but we quickly pivot to talking about why brandy. When I heard he was buying Copper & Kings I was a bit shocked but Rob puts a great spin on it to see the opportunity in brandy versus the crowded bourbon market. But don't get me wrong, there's still a lot of really great brandy, bourbon, and tequila plays here. So if you're coming to Louisville and need a break from the bourbon, go check out Copper & Kings to see what he's got going on over there and pick one up on your shelf when you need to change things up.
Show Notes:
Challenges and developments in the Tennessee distilling industry
Rob’s vision for Copper and Kings and the significance of American brandy
Discussion of innovative products and unique distillation approaches
Tasting notes featuring their apple brandy and other specialties
Importance of educating consumers about brandy
Plans for community engagement and revitalizing distillery events
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Jason from The Mash & Drum just dropped his first bourbon: Drum Key Spirits “The Debut.” A 123-proof blend of 7 to 9 year Green River barrels. We break down the toasted oak, brown sugar old fashioned vibes, apricot citrus, and strawberry shortcake notes to see if this first release lives up to the hype.DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.
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It's This Week in Bourbon for March 13th 2026. Buffalo Trace Tried doing a new online bottle release system, Uncle Nearest is back in the news with hiding a $20M loan, and Maker’s Mark launches its Wood Finishing Series: The Stewards Release.Show Notes:
Five Southern Glazer’s executives indicted for eight-year bribery and shelf-placement scheme
Farm Credit Mid-America alleges Uncle Nearest funneled $20M loan to hide assets
Sazerac takes control of Garrard County Distilling Co. after purchasing $26M debt
Give 270 receives $11,350 grant from Karis Management Group for community support
National Bourbon Week returns to Bardstown June 14–21 with 10 partner distilleries
Milam & Greene launches Bluebonnet Bourbon benefiting Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
New Riff debuts 2026 Silver Grove series featuring six-year Bourbon and Rye
Kentucky Senator honors Jim Bunning with seventh small batch release aged 8.5 years
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It’s time for another Bourbon Community Roundtable, and we’re handing the reins over to our Patreon supporters to see what’s actually on your minds. We’re pulling back the curtain on our chaotic group chat to debate the "Dusty" vs. Modern era and why some single barrel picks just hit different. Ryan is still leading the charge for high-proof heat, while Blake breaks down why balance is the only thing that keeps a brand relevant in a crowded market. We’re also digging into the finished whiskey craze and what the latest round of distillery consolidations means for your wallet. At the end of the day, we’re looking past the labels to find the soul of the industry. Does a great story still trump a massive marketing budget? We’re breaking down the trends, the hype, and the reality of being an enthusiast in 2026. Pour a glass and join the conversation.
Show Notes:
The art of cocktail creativity: Best unexpected spirit swaps
Are finished barrel whiskeys a fleeting trend?
Insights on modern bottling techniques and the revival of "Dusty" bottles
How distillery consolidation impacts consumer choices
High-proof spirits: Preference shifts and cocktail accessibility
The journey of craft distilleries and the stories behind their creations
The role of storytelling in enriching the bourbon experience
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Old Soul Tintype Series No. 3 honors blues legend Kenny Brown with an 11 year, 103.5 proof bourbon built on a high rye MGP mash bill. We break down the sweet tea and strawberry notes, rich brown sugar caramel, and that bold charred barrel kick that Southern aging brings. Does the heat make the difference? Let’s find out.DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.
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It's This Week in Bourbon for March 6th 2026. Whiskey Thief Distilling Co. and the Louisville Bats have announced a multi-year partnership, Heaven Hill has 2 new releases, and Pursuit Spirits has the new Sakura Bloom Bourbon.Show Notes:
Whiskey Thief and Louisville Bats partner to debut home plate speakeasy and stadium club
Give 270 announces 20/20 Unicorn raffle featuring 1988 vintage Old Rip Van Winkle
Hotel Distil launches Peerless Distilling Suite featuring historical artifacts and immersive tastings
Pursuit Spirits debuts Pursuit United Sakura Bloom Bourbon finished in Japanese cherry wood
Burnt Church Distillery celebrates fifth anniversary with 100% Seashore Black Rye Whiskey
Bulleit releases Mesquite Smoked Malt Bourbon as its first permanent rye-free expression
Barrell Craft Spirits adds 12-Year Toasted American Oak Finish to premium Red Label Series
Larrikin Bourbon Co. unveils 2026 Rosewater Bourbon proofed with house-brewed botanical water
Heaven Hill launches Deatsville 13-Year-Old as first entry in commemorative site tribute series
Heaven Hill Heritage Collection returns with 22-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon at barrel proof
Jack Daniel’s and McLaren F1 debut 86-proof limited edition for 1000th Grand Prix milestone
Log Still Distillery and Archdiocese of Louisville release second annual Bishop’s Blend
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Is the bourbon market hitting a breaking point, or are we just drowning in a sea of average whiskey? Or maybe we're just trying to pick at things because that's what we do! Today's show didn't have a theme other than airing some grievances we see across the bourbon landscape. And the guy who has all the hot takes is Matt "The Colonel" Kusek. Matt never pulls his punches, and today we'll talk about the non-stop barrage of Limited Time Offerings (LTOs) and if NDPs are more exciting now than traditional heritage distilleries. We kick things off with a candid look at the struggle of creating fresh content in a saturated market and ask the tough question, has the rush to release more bottles caused a massive dip in quality? We've seen it in secondary markets because if every release is special then nothing is special. We also dive into the psychology of the "hunt" and why consumer demands are shifting. Matt poses a challenge to the big brands, questioning if they're falling behind while smaller, more nimble players to innovate. And we debate the future of "trophy" bottles like Pappy Van Winkle and whether collectability can survive. If you’ve ever looked at a shelf of $100 bottles and wondered if any are actually worth it, maybe this episode will tell you it's all psychology.
Show Notes:
The challenges of producing engaging content in the bourbon industry
The current state and originality of limited-time offerings
Consumer behavior and the perception of high-status brands like Pappy Van Winkle
The impact of non-distiller producers on quality and collectible options
Humorous tales from personal barrel picks and bourbon adventures
Predictions for the future of collectible and innovative whiskeys
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30 years in the barrel. $1,200 price tag. A mysterious mash bill and just 42 barrels blended. We dive into Blade & Bow 30 Year Bourbon and break down the dusty funk, cherry Smarties, pecan pie richness, and whether this ultra-aged release truly outshines the usual trophy bottles. This one surprised us.DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.
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It's This Week in Bourbon for February 27th 2026. The USDA has awarded the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) over $1.07 million to promote American spirits, Pursuit Spirits has released The Alpha Barrel, and Heaven Hill Distillery announces the release of Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey 20th Anniversary Limited Edition.Show Notes:
Hotaling & Co. shuttering Pier 50 distillery to focus on brand building and importing
Former HR VP files whistleblower lawsuit against Bardstown Bourbon Company alleging corporate misconduct
American Whiskey Association President addresses industry "normalization" and global growth potential
Iowa House committee approves bill to end state's monopoly on liquor distribution
Mississippi facing severe alcohol shortages due to state-run warehouse technical failures
North Carolina SBI investigating nonprofit "Greater Carolina" over alleged improper distillery lobbying
President Trump invokes Section 122 of Trade Act to impose global 15% import surcharge
USDA awards DISCUS $1.07 million to promote American spirits in global markets
Pursuit Spirits announces "The Alpha Barrel" as its first barrel-proof single-barrel expression
Limestone Branch Distillery launches "The Branch" members-only whiskey society
Columbia Creek Tennessee Whiskey officially launches 95.6 proof six-year expression
Bourbon & Beyond announces record-breaking artist lineup for September 2026 festival
Heaven Hill debuts Bernheim Original Wheat Whiskey 20th Anniversary Limited Edition
Kentucky Distillers’ Association launches interactive "Build Your Own Bourbon Trail" trip builder
Michter’s shipping highly anticipated 2026 release of its 10 Year Bourbon this March
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Is the bourbon industry about to meet its biggest competitor? Today, we’re welcoming back a familiar face, Jim Higdon, co-founder of Cornbread Hemp and the author of The Cornbread Mafia. Last time Jim was on Episode 342, we were talking about the history of Kentucky's most infamous drug ring, but today we’re looking at the future of cannabis and how it’s fighting for its life against big bourbon. It's no doubt that THC beverages have been on a meteoric rise and Jim shares a vision of a future where a THC drink is just as mainstream as a vodka soda was back in the '60s. But it’s not an easy road; Right now there is a lobbyist war, where Jim feels bourbon's powerful political engines are squaring off against the hemp industry to protect their shelf space. It gets a bit dicey with Fred taking the counterposition but I won't ruin it for you. Jim also highlights the looming legislative cliff, breaking down the regulatory hurdles and upcoming deadlines that could threaten the entire hemp-derived industry overnight. It’s a conversation about coexistence, regulation, and what you might see a different on your liquor store shelves very soon.
Show Notes:
Comparisons between THC beverages and historical liquor consumption patterns
Growth story of Cornbread Hemp from CBD to THC labels
The impact of bourbon lobbyists on cannabis regulatory issues
Importance of the upcoming November deadline for hemp legality
Variances in THC regulations across different states
Consumer safety and dosage concerns regarding THC beverages
Future collaboration potential between bourbon and cannabis industries
Advocacy strategies for hemp products within the political landscape
Reflection on the ongoing evolution of cannabis regulation and societal perception
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Wild Turkey drops one of its most anticipated bottles of the year: Russell’s Reserve Single Rickhouse Camp Nelson E. Floor 5. 128 proof. $300. We break down the sweet oak, blackberry cobbler vibes, leather, spice, and whether this limited release truly earns its price tag. Is this the one to chase?DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.
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I can't believe how much I learned just my listening to Peggy describe the different notes!