The Liquor Connoisseur

Drink to remember, not to forget. Please enjoy the craft of fine spirits responsibly. This video is intended for audiences of legal drinking age (21+ in the US). The "Bourbon Renaissance" is officially over, and the "Historic Shakeout" has begun.In this special report, Crystal and Roger dive deep into the state of the whiskey industry in 2026. From the shocking merger talks between Brown-Forman and Pernod Ricard to the "High Stakes War" for control of Uncle Nearest, the landscape of American spirits is shifting faster than ever.In this episode, we break down:The Merger of Equals: What the Brown-Forman and Pernod Ricard deal means for Jack Daniel’s and Woodford Reserve if it happens.The Uncle Nearest Saga: Receivership, Chapter 11 dismissals, and the $100M+ battle with Farm Credit.The "Ozempic Effect": How GLP-1s and the rise of CBD/THC beverages are hurting spirit consumption.The Surplus Crisis: Kentucky has 16.1 million barrels aging (4 per person!), but sales are slowing.The "Winners": Why Buffalo Trace is flooding the zone while Jim Beam pauses production at Clermont.DRINK SMARTER WITH THE BAR BOOK APP 📖Take the guesswork out of your next pour. Discover spirits and cocktails you’ll actually love.Download on Apple & Android: [Insert Your Link Here]TIMESTAMPS:0:00 - The State of the Industry: The Bubble is Bursting1:15 - The Brown-Forman & Pernod Ricard Potential Merger3:10 - Tariffs, CBD, & The Ozempic Effect4:45 - The Uncle Nearest Saga: Receivership & Bankruptcy Drama7:20 - Kentucky Owl & Stoli: A Comeback in Jeopardy?9:05 - The $75M Barrel Tax & The Surplus Crisis11:30 - Jim Beam Pauses Production: A Sign of the Times13:15 - Buffalo Trace: The King of Allocation Wins Again15:00 - How to Support Local Craft Distilleries#WhiskeyIndustry #BourbonBubble #UncleNearest #WhiskeyNews #BuffaloTrace #LiquorConnoisseur #BrownForman #PernodRicard

Drink to remember, not to forget. Please enjoy the craft of fine spirits responsibly. This video is intended for audiences of legal drinking age (21+ in the US). In this episode of The Liquor Connoisseur, Roger and Crystal finally unseal a masterpiece: a custom-engraved bottle of Bhakta 1928. Is this the ultimate "gateway spirit" for bridging the gap between Brandy/Cognac lovers and Rye Whiskey fans?🥂 SPONSOR: This episode is brought to you by the Bar Book app! Discover your perfect pour, take the guesswork out of finding spirits you'll love, and drink smarter. Download the Bar Book app for free on Apple and Android today!About Bhakta 1928:Created by Raj Bhakta (founder of WhistlePig), this 100-proof spirit is a stunning marriage of 2018 Straight Rye Whiskey (60%), XO Calvados (30%), and ancient French Armagnac vintages dating back to 1928 (10%). At $75, does it deliver on its "100-year-old" promise? We break down the nose, the tasting notes, the juiciness of the Calvados, and the beautiful rye spice finish.Shoutout to Engraving by Grace LeBlanc for the incredible custom bottle art!If you’ve tried Bhakta 1928 or any of their other expressions, let us know your thoughts in the comments!👍 Like, Subscribe, and Share!🥃 Please drink to remember, not to forget. Cheers!#Bhakta1928 #WhiskeyReview #RyeWhiskey #Armagnac #Calvados #BourbonTube #WhiskeyTasting #theliquorconnoisseur #drinktoremembernottoforget #BourbonReview #CraftSpirits #Mixology #SpiritsEducation, #TastingNotes #HowToTasteWhiskey #BestBourbon2026 #HomeBarChapters:0:00 - Intro & The Bar Book App0:45 - What is Bhakta 1928? (Specs & Price)1:20 - The Custom Engraved Bottle2:30 - The Pour & First Impressions3:15 - Tasting Notes: Rye Spice meets Calvados4:50 - The Verdict: Who is this spirit for?

Drink to remember, not to forget. Please enjoy the craft of fine spirits responsibly. This video is intended for audiences of legal drinking age (21+ in the US). Is this the smoothest 120-proof whiskey on the market? 🥃Today on The Liquor Connoisseur, Crystal and Roger are diving into a special find from their East Coast journey: Ponfeigh West Pennsylvania Cask Strength Single Barrel Rye.Hailing from Somerset, PA—the literal birthplace of American Whiskey—this "Monongahela Style" rye skips the "corn shenanigans" and delivers a massive 95% rye punch. But here’s the kicker: despite being 60% ABV, it drinks like a dream with notes of Apple Cinnamon, "Cinnamon Toast Crunch," and buttery baked goods.In this episode, we discuss:What exactly is "Monongahela Style" Rye?The unique "Letterman Patch" bottle design.Why we think this $70 bottle is 100% gift-worthy.Our experience at the Reading Terminal Market and Pennsylvania Libations.How to get your Rye Whiskey Certificate through Whiskey University!DRINK SMARTER WITH THE BAR BOOK APP 📖Take the guesswork out of your next pour. Discover spirits and cocktails you’ll actually love.Download on Apple & AndroidJOIN WHISKEY UNIVERSITY 🎓Want to learn more about Monongahela Rye? Comment "Whiskey University" below, and we’ll help you get started on your certificate! The first five classes are free.  @whiskeyuniversity9706  TIMESTAMPS:0:00 - No Corn Shenanigans: What is Monongahela Rye?1:15 - Meet Pon Faye: The Somerset, PA Story2:30 - The "Letterman Jacket" Bottle Design3:45 - The Pour & The "Worst Cork Pop Ever"5:10 - Tasting Notes: Cinnamon Toast Crunch?7:30 - Why there is NO burn at 120 Proof9:00 - Is it worth $70? (Gift-Worthiness)11:20 - How to join Whiskey University#Ponfeigh #ryewhiskey #PennsylvaniaWhiskey #whiskeyreview #theliquorconnoisseur #MonongahelaRye #caskstrength

Drink to remember, not to forget. Please enjoy the craft of fine spirits responsibly. This video is intended for audiences of legal drinking age (21+ in the US). Raising Spirits in the Delta! 🌿🍸In this episode of The Liquor Connoisseur, Crystal and Roger dive into a bottle that has been a long time coming: Tall Cotton Gin from Delta Dirt Distillery.Located in the Arkansas Delta, Delta Dirt is a family-owned, four-generation farm and distillery with deep roots. We discuss their incredible transition from sharecropping to owning the land and producing world-class spirits using sweet potatoes, corn, and wheat grown right on their farm.Is it really the "tea of spirits"? Roger and Crystal break down the "finger-snap crisp" profile of this 92-proof gin, its surprising peppery finish, and why Roger compares the refreshing tingle to a legendary McDonald’s Sprite. Whether you're a gin purist or looking for the perfect cocktail mixer, this Arkansas gem is one you need to hear about.In this episode, we cover:The history of Papa Joe and the Williams family legacy.The "Grain-to-Glass" process and the use of sweet potatoes.Tasting notes: Juniper, Black Pepper, and Citrus.Best ways to drink it (Hint: Try an orange twist!).A shoutout to Pronghorn and the Delta Dirt story.Price Point: $36.99Proof: 92 (46% ABV)“Drink to remember, not to forget.”Timestamps0:00 — Intro to Delta Dirt Distillery0:35 — The Specs: Proof, Price, and Grain-to-Glass1:10 — The Family Legacy: From Sharecropping to Moonshine2:15 — The Fresh Crack: Pouring Tall Cotton Gin3:04 — The Nose: Earthy, Crisp, and Juniper3:30 — Is Gin just "Vodka with Seasoning"?4:12 — The Taste: Warmth, Sweetness, and Balance5:05 — The "McDonald’s Sprite" Comparison6:10 — Who is this for? (Newbies vs. Intermediates)7:00 — Cocktail Suggestions: Tea, Soda, and Orange Twists8:15 — Final Thoughts & Supporting Local Brands#GinReview #DeltaDirt #TallCottonGin #CraftDistillery #ArkansasMade #GrainToGlass #LiquorConnoisseur #BlackOwnedBusiness #GinTasting #spirits Find us online:Instagram: @theliquorconnoisseurFacebook: @theliquorconnoisseurTikTok: @theliquorconnoisseurSpotify: @theliquorconnoisseurWebsite: theliquorconnoisseur.comFind Delta Dirt: deltadirtdistillery.com

Drink to remember, not to forget. Please enjoy the craft of fine spirits responsibly. This video is intended for audiences of legal drinking age (21+ in the US). Four Roses fans, what's your favorite recipe?In this episode of The Liquor Connoisseur, Crystal and Roger review the Four Roses 2025 Single Barrel releases (100 proof, aged 7–9 years), featuring recipes OESO, OESK, and OBSF. These annual releases rotate through Four Roses’ recipe system built from two mash bills + five yeast strains, and the flavors get wildly distinct.Expect a full tasting journey: rich red fruit and brown sugar, baking spice and caramel, rye spice with apple and mint, plus a breakdown of what the recipe codes actually mean so you can pick your lane like a pro.🥃 What you’ll get in this episode:• How Four Roses recipe codes work (mash bill + yeast strain)• Flavor notes by pour (fruit-forward vs spice-forward vs herbal/rye)• Why 100 proof is the sweet spot for evaluation• How to build your palate for rye spice• Our final picks: team OESK vs team OBSF🎧 Sponsored by The Bar Book AppDiscover your perfect pour. Join free and take the guesswork out of finding spirits and cocktails you’ll love.👇 Comment below: Which one are you, OESO, OESK or OBSF… and why?#FourRoses #SingleBarrelBourbon #BourbonFlight #WhiskeyReview#OESK #OBSF #OESO #BourbonTasting #LiquorConnoisseur #DrinkToRemember #fourrosesbourbon #whiskeyuniversity  @FourRosesBourbon   @whiskeyuniversity9706  🔗 SOCIAL MEDIA LINKSInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theliquorconnoisseurTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theliquorconnoisseurFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theliquorconnoisseurWebsite: https://theliquorconnoisseur.com

Did you know Blanco Tequila can be rested up to 2 months?In this episode of The Liquor Connoisseur, Crystal and Roger review Santaleza Blanco Tequila (NOM 1604) made in the highlands with 8-year Blue Weber agave, mountain spring water, and natural fermentation. It’s aged in American bourbon barrels for a minimum of 16 months, yet stays bright, smooth, and incredibly approachable.We break down:• What “Blanco / Reposado / Añejo / Extra Añejo” really means• Why tequila legally allows up to 1% additives and how to spot it• The flavor profile: agave-forward, citrus, earth, oak, dried fruit, and a white pepper finish• Why barrel aging doesn’t always mean “better”• Who this bottle is for (and why it’s sneakily gift-worthy)If you’re trying to taste more agave and less candy-sweet vanilla syrup, this episode is for you.🎧 Sponsored by The Bar Book AppDiscover your perfect pour, join free, and take the guesswork out of finding spirits and cocktails you’ll love.👇 Drop a comment: What’s your favorite tequila right now?#TequilaReview #BlancoTequila #Santaleza #AdditiveFreeTequila#Agave #TequilaEducation #LiquorConnoisseur #NOM1604 #DrinkToRemember #anejo Find us online:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theliquorconnoisseurTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theliquorconnoisseurFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theliquorconnoisseurWebsite: https://theliquorconnoisseur.com👍 Like if you learned something new🔔 Subscribe for more bottle breakdowns and spirit education🥂 Drink to remember, not to forget.

Is a store pick really that different, or is it just hype?In this episode of The Liquor Connoisseur, Crystal and Roger put Penelope Straight Bourbon Toasted head-to-head with a Penelope Single Barrel Pick from The Well OKC. Same brand. Same DNA. Very different experience.From toasted marshmallow sweetness to rich brownie-like depth, we break down proof, aging, toasting vs charring, and who each bottle is actually for. Comment: Standard release or store pick, which are you choosing?#PenelopeBourbon #singlebarrel #ToastedBourbon #BourbonReview#LiquorConnoisseur #StorePick #drinktoremembernottoforget 🥃 What we cover:• Toasted bourbon vs single barrel picks• Proof differences and flavor impact• Why non-chill filtration matters• Beginner vs intermediate vs advanced drinkers• Cake vs brownie bourbon energyTimestamps:00:00 – Same Bourbon, Different Experience?01:15 – Sponsor: Bar Book App02:10 – Penelope Brand Story04:30 – Toasted vs Single Barrel Explained08:10 – Nose & First Sip (Toasted)12:40 – Store Pick Tasting17:30 – Cake vs Brownie Bourbon22:10 – Who Each Bottle Is For26:30 – Final VerdictFind us Online:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theliquorconnoisseurTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theliquorconnoisseurFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theliquorconnoisseurWebsite: https://theliquorconnoisseur.com🎧 Sponsored by The Bar Book AppFind spirits you’ll love without guessing.

This is a $125 bottle. So the real question is: is it worth it?We break down why WhistlePig 12-Year World Rye commands its price, from aging to wine barrel finishing to legendary distilling lineage. This is a luxury rye built for collectors, not casual drinkers.You ever taste a whiskey so complex you try everything to unlock it?In this episode of The Liquor Connoisseur, Crystal and Roger break down the legendary Whistle Pig 12-Year World Rye a $125 straight rye finished in three different wine barrels and built for serious whiskey drinkers.From the Kentucky Chew to glassware science, winter fruit flavors, and zero ethanol burn, this rye delivers depth that keeps unfolding with every sip. This isn’t a casual pour. This is a homework bottle.🥃 What you’ll learn:• Why there’s no “Kentucky hug” in rye• How wine barrel finishes change flavor• Why this rye drinks bigger than 86 proof• When glassware actually matters• Who should (and shouldn’t) buy this bottle🎧 Sponsored by The Bar Book AppDiscover your perfect pour without the guesswork.#WhistlePig #RyeWhiskey #WhiskeyReview #WhiskeyTok #LiquorConnoisseur#KentuckyChew #WhiskeyEducation #CraftWhiskey #DrinkToRemember🔗 Social LinksInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theliquorconnoisseurTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theliquorconnoisseurFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theliquorconnoisseurWebsite: https://theliquorconnoisseur.com▶️ YouTubehttps://youtube.com/@TheLiquorConnoisseur⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Kentucky Chew Hook01:10 – Sponsor: Bar Book App02:05 – What We’re Tasting04:00 – Why This Rye Is Different06:45 – Barrel Finish Breakdown09:30 – Nose & First Sip13:10 – Flavor Explosion17:40 – Glassware Science22:00 – Straight Rye vs Bourbon26:30 – Homework Bottle Explained31:00 – Final Verdict💬 Comment: Do you chew your whiskey or just sip?👍 Like & subscribe for real whiskey education

Is this really the World’s Best Bourbon of 2025… and can you actually see the flavor in the glass?In this episode of The Liquor Connoisseur, Crystal and Roger review Frank August Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon, the IWSC Whiskey of the Year, and things get beautifully nerdy.From visible “whiskey glitter” caused by non-chill filtration, to a bold high-rye spice, honeyed fruit, and a smooth Kentucky hug, this $70 bourbon delivers complexity, intention, and a little mystery. We break down what Kentucky Straight Bourbon really means, why this pour isn’t for beginners, and why it may be one of the most gift-worthy bottles on the shelf.This is bourbon for drinkers who want character, story, and flavor you can literally watch unfold.🥃 Expect:• Why awards matter (and when they don’t)• What non-chill filtration does to flavor and mouthfeel• Who this bourbon is actually for• Why the price likely won’t stay at $70• Cocktail vs neat verdict🎧 Sponsored by The Bar Book AppDiscover spirits you’ll love without the guesswork. Drink smarter, explore more, and pour with confidence.👉 Watch till the end. The pour tells the story.💬 Comment below: Do awards influence what you buy, or does the glass decide?👍 Like & subscribe for real spirit education.🥃 As always: Drink to remember, not to forget.🔗 SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theliquorconnoisseur🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theliquorconnoisseur📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theliquorconnoisseur🌐 Website & Merch: https://theliquorconnoisseur.comTIMESTAMPS / CHAPTERS00:00 – Can You SEE Flavor in Bourbon? (Whiskey “Glitter” Explained)01:12 – Welcome to The Liquor Connoisseur02:05 – Episode Sponsor: The Bar Book App03:02 – What We’re Tasting Today: Frank August Small Batch Bourbon04:10 – 2025 World’s Best Bourbon? (IWSC Explained)05:32 – Bottle Design & First Impressions06:48 – Non-Chill Filtration & Visible Flavor Compounds08:22 – The Nose: Fruit, Honey & No Ethanol10:01 – First Sip: High-Rye Spice & Kentucky Hug12:06 – Mouthfeel, Proof & Balance at 100 Proof13:45 – What “Kentucky Straight Bourbon” Really Means15:58 – Is This Beginner Friendly or Not?17:42 – Neat vs Cocktail: How This Bourbon Performs19:15 – Gift-Worthy? Price, Presentation & Cork Talk21:30 – Why the Price May Go Up After Whiskey of the Year23:10 – The Mystery of Frank August’s Blending Process25:05 – Final Verdict: Who This Bourbon Is For27:10 – Moment of Perfection & What We Learned29:05 – Where Frank August Goes Next (Rye & Cask Finishes)31:00 – Merch Shoutout & How to Support the Show32:10 – Final Toast: Drink to Remember, Not to Forget▶️ YOUTUBE CHANNEL LINK👉 https://youtube.com/@TheLiquorConnoisseur

In this episode of The Liquor Connoisseur, we sit down with James and Alina Mahoney, the husband-and-wife duo behind Madam Mocktail—a bold, ready-to-drink mocktail brand changing how people socialize without alcohol.What started as an Instagram page has grown into a shelf-stable, bar-quality product now featured in 100+ locations across Pennsylvania—including 7-Eleven—with nationwide shipping and hospitality adoption on the rise.We discuss:Their four core mocktail flavors 🍸 (Lemon Drop, Passionfruit Mojito, Cosmo, Black Cherry Mule)How they partnered with BevSource to bring bold, natural ingredients to lifeThe rise of sober curious culture and social drinking without the pressureTheir bottling decision (glass + twist-off = 7-day shelf life)Using Madam Mocktail as a base in cocktails at restaurants🔥 These aren't just seltzers with juice. They're real-deal mocktails you can sip straight, mix, or bring into any setting—from weddings to wellness retreats.🛒 Order online: madammocktail.com🎙️ Tagline: Drink to Remember, Not to Forget.—🎧 Listen on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeartRadio📲 Follow @TheLiquorConnoisseur on IG, TikTok & YouTube📩 Want your brand featured? email: contact@theliquorconnoisseur.com#SoberCurious #MocktailLife #DryJanuary #MadamMocktail #DrinkToRemember #ZeroProof #TheLiquorConnoisseur #MindfulDrinking #NAspirits

We made it to the end of the year, and instead of chasing hype bottles or unicorn myths, we’re breaking down the spirits that actually earned a permanent place on our shelf.In this episode of The Liquor Connoisseur, Crystal and Roger share their Best Spirits of the Year across whiskey, tequila, rum, cognac, vodka, gin, absinthe, and even agave’s lesser‑known cousins. These are bottles we didn’t just review, but finished, re‑bought, and kept reaching for.You’ll hear why:Absinthe myths needed to be retired (no green fairy here)Overproof and cask strength became our word of the yearAdditive‑free tequila changed how we drink agaveCreamy, oily mouthfeel matters more than brand namesRarity doesn’t equal qualityHigh proof doesn’t mean harshFrom Yéyo Rosa Reposado and Dad’s Hat Honey Rye, to Du Nord Gin, Striped Lion Overproof Rum, Delta Dirt Sweet Potato Vodka, and Pierre Ferrand 10 Generations, this episode is your shortcut to drinking smarter, not louder.💬 Tell us in the comments: Which bottle was your favorite this year, and what surprised you the most?As always, we drink to remember, not to forget.⏱️ Chapters / Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome + Best of the Year Setup01:35 – Absinthe Myths & Why It Made the List04:20 – New Dawn 10 Year Wheated (Cask Strength Love)07:40 – Yéyo Rosa Reposado & Additive-Free Tequila11:10 – Pierre Ferrand 10 Generations Cognac14:20 – Dad’s Hat Honey Rye & That Creamy Mouthfeel17:30 – Bacanora: Agave’s Lesser-Known Cousin21:05 – Delta Dirt Sweet Potato Vodka24:10 – Loft & Bear Vodka + Giving Back27:00 – Du Nord Gin (Balanced, Bold, Legendary)30:10 – Striped Lion Overproof Rum33:20 – Overproof, Cask Strength & Our Word of the Year36:00 – Final Thoughts + What’s Coming Next#LiquorConnoisseur#BestSpiritsOfTheYear#WhiskeyReview#TequilaLovers#Overproof#CaskStrength#CraftSpirits#SpiritEducation#DrinkToRemember#Absinthe#RumLovers#VodkaReview#GinLovers#Cognac#AgaveSpirits#Mezcal#Bacanora#SpiritPodcast

Most people think being a liquor connoisseur means chasing rare, locked-up bottles — standing in line, paying secondary prices, and hoping you’re “chosen” to buy something.We stopped doing that.In this episode of The Liquor Connoisseur, Crystal and Roger break down their real connoisseur journey — from early curiosity bottles to educated, flavor-forward choices you can actually buy off the shelf.We talk about:Why we stopped chasing allocated “unicorn” bottlesHow our palate evolved across absinthe, tequila, rye, cognac, and bourbonWhat bottles we put down — and what we picked up insteadWhy proof doesn’t equal harshnessHow better quality actually makes better cocktailsAnd how to drink smarter without overpaying for hypeThis episode isn’t about flexing rare bottles.It’s about drinking with intention, education, and confidence.👇 Drop a comment and tell us:What bottle did YOU stop chasing?Tell us YOUR connoisseur journey in the comments — what’s one bottle you used to love that you’ve since replaced?#LiquorConnoisseur#DrinkSmarter#BourbonEducation#WhiskeyTalk#StopChasingHype#TequilaJourney#SpiritEducation#AllocatedBourbon#DrinkToRemember#BourbonCommunity#AgaveSpirits#WhiskeyLovers🍸 Sponsored by The Bar BookDiscover your perfect pour.Join today for free and take the guesswork out of finding spirits and cocktails you’ll love.Drink smarter, explore more, and enjoy with confidence.Available on Apple & Android.📌 New episodes weekly📌 Subscribe for spirit education, reviews, and real conversations📌 Drink to remember, not to forget 🥃⏱️ CHAPTERS / TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Why We Stopped Chasing Allocated Bottles01:05 – The Bottles People Always Ask About02:20 – Our First “Different” Spirit Experience (Absinthe)04:15 – Absinthe Myths vs Reality06:10 – How Education Changed Our Drinking07:45 – Walking Away from Don Julio & 194209:30 – Discovering Agave-Forward Tequila11:40 – Mezcal, Bacanora & Expanding the Palate13:25 – Losing the Fear of Proof15:10 – Why Higher Proof Can Sip Smoother17:00 – When Cheap Spirits Ruin Cocktails18:30 – Cognac: What We Drink Now Instead20:15 – The Truth About Allocated Bourbon22:10 – Shelf Bottles That Beat Hype Bottles24:00 – Stop Waiting in Line, Start Drinking Better25:30 – Share Your Connoisseur Journey

This isn’t just another bourbon review. This is Angry Mac’s personal private barrel pick of Wilderness Trail’s Family Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon — a cask strength beauty aged 5 years and 10 months and bottled at a bold 112.9 proof.This rare gem was hand-picked by one of our favorite whiskey influencers and comes in at only 210 bottles total, making it an incredibly exclusive experience few will ever get to taste. But today, you do.🥃 What you’ll discover in this episode:What makes barrel picks so special and how you can get oneTasting notes: Chocolate, cherry, toffee, and a lingering winter-warming finishPairing bourbon with cigars and desserts 🍫Why this bottle might remind you of grandma’s baked goodsBourbon 101: What "non-chill filtered" and "cask strength" really meanHow to enjoy high-proof whiskey even if you're a beginner🔔 Subscribe and turn on notifications for more rare spirit reviews, distillery visits, and insider interviews with the people changing the way we drink.🎙 Hosted by Crystal & Roger | The Liquor Connoisseur📍 Shot on location in Oklahoma | Tasting Angry Mac’s New York pick🧠 This episode is sponsored by The Bar Book App – Discover your perfect pour. Download FREE on Apple & Android!Comment below:Have you ever tried a private barrel pick? Would you want to do one?👍 Like if you’ve ever tasted a cask strength bourbon🔁 Share with a friend who needs to experience real bourbon🛎 Subscribe for exclusive spirits, distilleries & cocktail content🍫 What chocolate would YOU pair with this bourbon?Timestamps / Chapters00:00 – Intro: Why Private Barrel Picks Matter 01:20 – Meet Angry Mac’s Exclusive Wilderness Trail Pick 02:45 – Wilderness Trail Distillery Background 04:35 – What Makes This Cask Strength So Special 06:00 – Barrel Char, Age, and Yeast Strain Breakdown 07:15 – Tasting Begins: First Sip & Immediate Reactions 08:50 – Flavor Notes: Chocolate, Cherry, Toffee, Coffee 10:30 – Pairing with Cigars and Baked Goods 12:00 – Bourbon vs Brownies: Why Richness Wins 13:30 – Bourbon & Memory: Grandma’s Desserts & Nose Notes 15:00 – Chill Filtration & Lipid Retention Explained 17:15 – How to Sip High Proof Spirits as a Beginner 18:45 – Final Thoughts, Toasts & Teasers of What’s Coming Next 20:00 – Outro: Like, Subscribe & Drink to Remember#BourbonReview #WildernessTrail #PrivateBarrelPick #CaskStrengthBourbon #AngryMac #WhiskeyTasting #TheLiquorConnoisseur #RareBourbon #WhiskeyCommunity #CigarAndBourbon #BourbonLovers #BarBook #BourbonPairing #HighProofWhiskey #WhiskeyLife

Welcome back to Part Two of our deep dive at Woodworks Distilling Company! In this episode, The Liquor Connoisseur sits down with Abby, the creative force behind the distillery's cocktail program. From crafting literary-themed cocktails to serving up absinthe that just won a Gold Medal at the John Barleycorn Awards, Abby shares how the tasting room brings Woodworks’ storytelling ethos to life.👉 Whether you’re a cocktail lover, spirits nerd, or looking to visit a must-see destination in Oklahoma, this episode delivers flavor, insight, and inspiration.🔔 Subscribe for more episodes featuring distilleries, bartenders, innovators, and change-makers in the spirits world.🎧 Also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and iHeartRadio.—📍 Filmed on location at [Woodworks Distilling Company, Oklahoma City, OK]🎙 Hosted by Crystal of The Liquor Connoisseur🎁 Sponsored by The Bar Book – Discover Your Perfect Pour👍 Like this video if you love craft spirits🔁 Share this with someone planning an Oklahoma distillery tour🛎 Subscribe + hit the bell so you never miss a pour✍️ Tell us in the comments: Have you ever tried absinthe?#WoodworksDistilling #CraftCocktails #Absinthe #DistilleryTour #TheLiquorConnoisseur #GrainToGlass #OklahomaDistillery #RoughDraftSeries #WomenInSpirits #CocktailInnovation #TastingRoomExperience #BarManagerSpotlight #SpiritsPodcast #CraftSpiritsMovement #drinktoremembernottoforget

Step inside Woodworks Distilling Company in Oklahoma City with The Liquor Connoisseur! In this immersive episode, we sit down with David Wood and David Alexander to explore their distillation philosophy, innovative experimental series called “Rough Draft,” and how they’re crafting spirits with storytelling, transparency, and taste in mind.From their gold medal-winning absinthe to their chaptered bourbon series and locally-sourced Oklahoma ingredients, this is a distillery rewriting the rules.💬 Learn how they:Built a label with five layers of storytellingInfuse literary themes into cocktailsInnovate with local Oklahoma wood for barrelsEarned accolades for their AbsintheEmbrace quality so deeply they dump any batch not up to standard📍Planning a spirits trip? Add Woodworks Distilling to your must-visit list!🔔 Subscribe for more exclusive distillery features, tastings, and behind-the-scenes looks into America’s most interesting spirit brands.📲 Follow The Liquor Connoisseur on:Instagram | TikTok | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube | iHeartRadio🛎 DRINK TO REMEMBER, NOT TO FORGET#WoodworksDistilling #CraftSpirits #Absinthe #GrainToGlass #DistilleryTour #OklahomaSpirits #ExperimentalSpirits #BourbonLovers #RyeWhiskey #AmericanDistilleries #TheLiquorConnoisseur #drinktoremembernottoforget Find Woodworks at woodworksdistilling.com or on Instagram and TikTok at @WoodworksDistilling

“A better morning starts tonight.” In this episode of The Liquor Connoisseur, Crystal sits down with, Teddy and Sampson, the founders of Last Call, a science-backed supplement made with DHM — a natural compound used in Korean and Japanese traditional medicine to help metabolize alcohol and support recovery.We break down:🧬 What DHM is and how it works in your body🍷 Why “drink smarter” is the future of alcohol culture📈 How Last Call is changing the game for social drinkers, connoisseurs, and casual sippers💊 Why it's more than just a hangover cure — it’s health-conscious drinking🛒 Where to buy it, how to use it, and why it's about to be everywhereWhether you’re sipping a neat whiskey, shaking up a cocktail, or just enjoying a few drinks with friends — Last Call might just become your new go-to ritual.📲 Try it here: https://www.trylastcall.com 🛍️ Also available on Amazon with Prime shipping📸 Tag us when you try it: @theliquorconnoisseur🎧 Also listen on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music#lastcall #theliquorconnoisseur #drinktoremembernottoforget #hangoverfree #lastcall #hangoverprevention #hangovercuresChapters / Timestamps:00:00 – Intro: Do You Have a Better Morning Plan? 01:30 – Meet the Founders: From High School Friends to Health-Focused Entrepreneurs 03:20 – What is DHM and Why It Works 06:00 – The Korean Inspiration Behind the Formula 08:45 – How to Take Last Call (And When) 11:15 – Why the Founders Take It Even for 1-2 Drinks 13:00 – Packaging, Dosage & Dosing Tips 15:30 – Future Product Forms: Gummies, Mints & More 18:10 – The Science Behind Alcohol Metabolism 21:00 – The Shift Toward Healthier Drinking Habits 24:30 – The Culture of Mindful Drinking 27:00 – Last Call at Family Functions (Real-Life Use Cases) 29:15 – Why Gen Z Drinks Smarter (and Better Liquor) 32:00 – Crystal’s Vision for Alcohol Education 34:30 – Why Last Call is Part of the Experience — Not a Cure 36:00 – Where to Find It & Final Thoughts 38:00 – Closing: “Drink to Remember, Not to Forget” 💊 Take it before bed.🥃 Wake up refreshed.🧬 No sketchy ingredients — just science-backed support for your liver.

In this episode of The Liquor Connoisseur, we sit down with Chris Montana, founder of Du Nord Social Spirits, to talk about building one of the most impactful distilleries in the country.Du Nord made history as America’s first Black-owned distillery, and their journey is full of flavor, hustle, and heart. In this conversation, Chris shares:🛫 How Du Nord became Delta Airlines’ official vodka partner🔬 What makes their apple and coffee liqueurs actually taste real🌱 The importance of sourcing, transparency, and clean distillation📈 How craft brands can survive and thrive in a tough spirits market👏 What “Real AF Spirits” truly meansThis is an inside look at a purpose-driven brand changing the narrative in craft spirits—and raising the bar while doing it. #TheLiquorConnoisseur #DrinkToRememberNotToForget #CraftSpirits #DuNord  @dunordspirits  🎧 Listen on:YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Amazon📍 Learn more or book a tasting at:🌐 https://www.TheLiquorConnoisseur.comOrder Du Nord and support independent distillershttps://www.dunordsocialspirits.com

We sat down with Karl Franz Williams, founder of Uncle Waithley’s Vincy Brew, a ginger beer unlike any other — all-natural, Caribbean-inspired, and crafted with real Scotch Bonnet pepper. 🍹🌶️Learn how a passionate founder created this elevated ginger beer after bartending in NYC and wanting to honor his Vincentian grandfather. From mocktails to Moscow Mules to perfect pairings with rum or bourbon, Uncle Waithley’s changes the cocktail game.✅ Founder Story✅ Product Development + R&D✅ Perfect Cocktail Pairings✅ Taste Test + ReviewChapters:00:00 – Intro: Who is Uncle Waithley?01:08 – Founder’s Story: From NYC Bars to Ginger Beer03:15 – What Makes This Ginger Beer Different05:12 – Scotch Bonnet? Wait, What?!06:40 – Flavor Profile + Tasting Notes08:22 – Cocktail Pairings (Rum, Tequila, Whiskey)09:45 – Where to Buy Uncle Waithley’s11:03 – Future of Caribbean Mixers12:35 – Final Thoughts + Cheers🔗 Shop + Learn more: https://www.unclewaithleys.com📍 Available nationwide, including WholeFoods, Amazon, and select bars/restaurants! Go to www.unclewaithleys.com to see where you can pick up this non alcoholic ginger beer!🎧 Listen to The Liquor Connoisseur on all major platforms:Apple | Spotify | iHeart | Amazon Music👉 https://www.theliquorconnoisseur.com✨ Whether you're a bartender, spirits enthusiast, or just tired of boring mixers — this is a must-watch!#DrinkToRememberNotToForget

“Cheers to f**ing this sht!” kicks off this wildly entertaining and unfiltered episode of The Liquor Connoisseur with Dawn O’Neal of New Dawn Distilling.In this full-length deep dive, we unpack:What barrel proof and cask strength really mean (hint: they’re the same!)Why starting at high proof isn’t just for pros—it’s for flavor loversHow baking with cask strength spirits will change your dessert gameWhy you shouldn’t be afraid to add water (or Dr. Pepper) to your whiskeyBehind-the-scenes of launching a spirit brand with soulWhether you’re a whiskey newbie or a high-proof veteran, you’ll walk away smarter, thirstier, and a whole lot more entertained. 🥃 @NewDawnDistilling  #barrelproof #caskstrength #baking #drinktoremembernottoforget #theliquorconnoisseur 00:00 – Cheers to F***ing This Sh*t 🍷02:00 – What Is Barrel Proof vs Cask Strength?04:10 – Why New Dawn Only Does Cask Strength07:50 – Is High Proof Really for Beginners?10:45 – What You Lose When You Dilute Whiskey13:40 – Cooking with Bourbon: Sweet Potato Pies & Brownies?!18:00 – The Problem with Cheap Alcohol in Recipes21:00 – The Real Cost of Starting a Cask Strength Brand24:30 – Bourbon Year-Round: Not Just for Fall29:00 – Coming Soon: New Dawn Rye (Summer Vibes Only)34:00 – Tips for Whiskey + Cocktail Pairings36:30 – How to Shop New Dawn (and Where It Ships)40:00 – Final Cheers + Brand Owner Real Talk💻 Watch full episodes every week!🎙 Apple | Spotify | iHeart | Amazon🎥 YouTube: Subscribe & turn on 🔔 notifications!🌐 www.TheLiquorConnoisseur.com

Ever wondered how the packaging of your favorite spirits goes from concept to shelf? In this exclusive behind-the-scenes episode of The Liquor Connoisseur, we visit Spearhead Global to meet the team revolutionizing spirits packaging for emerging and premium brands.We talk with the CEO, Heather Fritzsche, and R&D Engineers about bottle design, sustainability, customization, and how they support brands with short runs and big dreams. Whether you're a distiller, CPG entrepreneur, or packaging nerd—this one is a must-watch.👇 Timestamps:00:00 - Intro: Packaging Matters01:32 - Meet the Spearhead Global Team04:15 - Packaging Challenges for Spirit Startups07:48 - Short Run Solutions for Craft Brands10:30 - Sustainable & Custom Packaging Innovations13:15 - Working With Small Distilleries16:42 - Why Packaging Tells the Brand Story19:05 - Supporting Minority and Women-Owned Brands22:00 - Final Thoughts + How to Connect🔗 More from Spearhead Global: www.spearheadglobal.com📬 Book a tasting with us: www.theliquorconnoisseur.com🔔 Don’t forget to Like, Comment & Subscribe📲 Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook & LinkedIn @TheLiquorConnoisseurDrink to Remember, Not to Forget