The Rolex Whisky Passion Project

In this engaging episode of the Rolex Whiskey Passion Project, host Gavin welcomes Aaron Goldfarb, a seasoned journalist and author who has recently published a noteworthy book on vintage spirits. Listeners are taken on a journey through Aaron's personal and professional whiskey encounters, revealing how his experiences have shaped his understanding and appreciation for this timeless beverage. The conversation kicks off with Aaron recounting his earliest memories of whiskey and how his palate evolved while attending college in upstate New York during the bourbon renaissance. Drawing from his firsthand experiences in New York City's burgeoning cocktail scene of the early 2000s, Aaron offers an insightful glimpse into the industry's emerging trends of the time, including his tasting encounters with craft beer, bourbon, and beyond.

Whiskey has carved its own path through the ages, transforming from a spirit enjoyed by select few to a universal symbol of sophistication, tradition, and innovation. In a rich conversation with Zach Johnston, the Drinks Editor for UPROXX Life, we unearth the layers that define whiskey's past, present, and potential. Johnston's narrative unveils personal tales, industry evolution, and the beating heart of whiskey culture. Whiskey's modern rebirth isn't merely about the liquid itself; it's a story of rediscovery—a journey back to its roots in craftsmanship and regional heritage. As Johnston recalls, "...there's so much room and so much space to do stuff where your imagination is the only limit." Gone are the days when whiskey was a one-note song; today's tune is a complex symphony appealing to a broader audience.

Whiskey has long seduced the palates of enthusiasts around the globe, offering a depth of flavor and a richness of tradition that few other spirits can match. In an engaging dialogue with whiskey aficionado Devin Velardi, we delve deep into the heart of whiskey culture and its burgeoning avenues. The conversation touches on Vilardi's personal whiskey experiences, the development of the American Single Malt, and meaningful encounters in the industry. Whiskey's allure isn't beholden to any single factor, but rather a culmination of experiences that progress from youthful trials to mature appreciation. Devin Vilardi recounts an early encounter with whiskey that was less than inviting—a 1978 or 1980 bottle of Johnny Walker Red Label—but it was this initial bracing taste that paved the way for his nuanced understanding and passion for whiskey in later years.

Gavin offers some more sound advice on whisky investments and refers to a recent Forbes article The article states The current state of the secondary whisky market is characterized by uncertainty, presenting opportunities for discerning investors. To navigate this landscape in 2024, potential investors are advised to heed three key considerations. Firstly, it is crucial to recognize that whisky, like any investment, carries inherent risks with values subject to fluctuations. Prudent investors should only commit funds that they can afford to lose. Secondly, the practice of buying bottles for quick resale, known as flipping, has become increasingly precarious. The market is expected to experience a decline in both volume and value in 2024. Factors contributing to this decline include a surplus of sellers, a diminished pool of buyers due to reduced disposable income, and heightened awareness of tax implications associated with flipped bottles. Thirdly, the recommendation is to adopt a long-term investment approach. While some may experience quick financial gains, sustained success in the whisky investment realm often stems from strategic purchasing and a commitment to holding assets for an extended period.

In the latest enthralling episode of the Rolex Whiskey Passion project, we delve into the spirited world of whiskey aficionados with our guest, Jonny Lieberman. A versatile individual whose love for bourbon is as profound as his expertise in cars, Jonny takes us on a journey through his personal whiskey discoveries and the transformative experiences that shaped his palate. From a revelatory tasting of a 16-year-old Hirsch at a brewers' conference to stumbling upon the legendary Black Maple Hill bourbon, Jonny shares foundational moments that propelled him into the ever-evolving universe of whiskey collecting. The conversation meanders through the halcyon days when rare whiskies like Pappy Van Winkle sat on shelves at attainable prices, offering a nostalgic glimpse into a past era of bourbon hunting.

The world of whiskey and luxury spirits doesn't just revolve around the enjoyment of complex flavors and rare finds—it's an intricate dance of passion, business savvy, and community building. In today's episode with Glen McCallum, co-owner of McCallum and Sons Whiskey Co., we delve into the intricacies of running a whiskey specialty store, the journey from passion to profession, and the importance of creating a community around a beloved spirit. Whiskey aficionados often dream about turning their passion into a vocation. Glen's journey from being an army officer to a whiskey boutique co-owner is a case study of channeling one's enthusiasm into entrepreneurship. One pivotal experience, a visit to a whiskey boutique in Dublin, painted a vivid picture of what a specialized retail store could offer: an array of selections, expert knowledge, and an impressive presentation that turns buying spirits into an experience.

On this episode, we're joined by David Pearce of Clandestine Whisky Magazine to explore the intricacies and joys of whiskey appreciation. The podcast transcripts have been distilled into an article rich with insights for both seasoned enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike. Whiskey appreciation has seen a dramatic surge over the past few decades, evolving from a drink predominantly savored by a niche audience to one with a global following and multifaceted market. As David recalls, the shift from enjoying whiskey solely as a casual drink to pursuing it as a collectible commodity was a gradual process, driven by the desire for both knowledge and exceptional experiences.

In this episode we delve deep into the inspiring world of bespoke whiskey cases with the founder of Daryl Proof, Nick Tarbuck—alias Daryl. As the mind behind some of the most durable and stylish whiskey travel cases in the industry, Daryl shares his relatively recent yet deeply rooted passion for whiskey and how it became the catalyst for his entrepreneurial endeavor. The conversation takes us on a journey through Daryl's dive into whiskey appreciation and the genesis of Daryl Proof, LLC. The guest's enthusiastic recollection of his first distillery experience paints a vivid picture of how intrinsic the love for whiskey is to his personal and professional life. This episode is an intimate account of transformation, exploration, and the confluence of good spirits with great design.

River Wood, a bartender from South Africa, shares his personal whiskey journey and how he fell in love with the spirit. He talks about his early experiences with whiskey, his time working on cruise ships, and his passion for mixology. River also discusses his current role at Gleneagles, where he has the opportunity to work with an incredible selection of whiskeys and meet passionate guests. He emphasizes the importance of being consistent and mindful in life and appreciating the privilege of waking up each day.

Raj Sabharwal, founding partner of Glass Revolution Imports, joins Gavin to discuss his journey in the whiskey industry. Raj shares his early experiences with whiskey, including growing up in Canada and drinking Canadian whiskey and Scotch. He also talks about his first taste of Glenfiddich and how it sparked his interest in single malts. Raj then delves into the challenges and successes of launching Amrut single malts in the US market and the growth of the Indian whiskey industry. He also discusses the expansion of Glass Revolution Imports' portfolio to include other world single malts, such as Blackadder and Bimber. Raj reflects on the evolution of the whiskey landscape and the increasing popularity of world single malts. He emphasizes the importance of education and the role of Glass Revolution Imports in introducing and promoting unique and high-quality whiskeys to the US market.

Nick Harborne, the founder of Whiskey Wiseman and Wild Cocktails, joins Gavin on today's show. Nick shares the story behind the creation of Whiskey Wiseman, a whiskey club that started as a boys' night out and grew into a global community. He talks about his journey of discovering and falling in love with whiskey, particularly Islay whiskies and Japanese whiskies. Nick also discusses the challenges of navigating the changing landscape of social media and influencer culture. He expresses his excitement about the comeback of Whiskey Wiseman and his plans to continue sharing his passion for whiskey with others.

In this episode, Gavin interviews David Thomas Tao, a whiskey reviewer, writer, and producer. David shares his first encounter with whiskey, growing up in Bardstown, Kentucky, and visiting distilleries as a child. He talks about his journey back into the world of whiskey as an adult and how he became involved in cocktail culture. David also discusses his transition into whiskey writing and the opportunities that have come his way. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling and the connections made through whiskey.

While Rory was working his way through his undergraduate degree in Applied Psychology BSc. He developed a keen interest in the marketing aspects of the drinks industry, specifically single malt whisky. This interest grew from working within a prestigious whisky bar in the heart of Scotland's capital for several years. This allowed Rory to gain unparalleled exposure to some of the most renowned figures and innovators in the whisky industry. Coupled with this exposure and natural interest, he soon developed a passion that led him to undertake his Master's in Marketing. Since then Rory has focused much of his efforts on becoming engrossed in the marketing strategies of luxurious consumables, with a personal enthusiasm for the international whisky industry.

Dennis Steckel is a passionate whiskey enthusiast and the founder of the AMRUT Fever Facebook group. He has a deep love for AMRUT whiskey and has developed a close relationship with the brand. Dennis has been involved in the whiskey industry for many years and has even had the opportunity to collaborate with Blackadder, a renowned whiskey bottler.

Michael Vacheresse, owner of Travel Bar in Brooklyn, shares his passion for whiskey in this episode of the Rolex Whiskey Passion Project. He discusses his first experiences with whiskey, the evolution of the whiskey scene in fine dining establishments, and the growth of Travel Bar as a whiskey destination. Vacheresse highlights the importance of customer service and the role of independent bottlers in expanding the whiskey experience. He also shares a memorable moment of creating a custom blend at Barrel Craft Spirits. Follow Travel Bar Brooklyn on Instagram for more whiskey adventures.

Neil Strachan is a whiskey enthusiast and former brand ambassador for Brown-Forman. He has a deep passion for whiskey and has had the opportunity to taste and experience some of the finest whiskeys in the world. Neil has worked in the hospitality industry and has traveled extensively, building relationships and sharing his love for whiskey with others.

Today, we have a special treat for you as we dive into the world of Tartan House, a whiskey lover's paradise located in Louisville, Kentucky. We had the pleasure of speaking with Jeff Knott, the owner and operator of Tartan House, and this man knows his whiskey. From his early days sipping Scotch with his roommate to his time at Willett Distillery, Jeff's journey in the world of whiskey has been nothing short of remarkable. Jeff's love affair with whiskey began in his early years when he started drinking Scotch with his roommate. He fondly remembers their go-to bottle, Glenfiddich, and how it helped shape his taste for whiskey. But it wasn't until later, when he entered the bar scene, that his passion for whiskey truly took off.

Whiskey has always been an integral part of Scottish culture. From the humble beginnings of blends like Famous Grouse and Bells to the rise of single malts, whiskey has evolved into a symbol of pride and craftsmanship. Daryl Haldane, a whiskey industry veteran, shares his journey from a young boy fascinated by the smell of whiskey to becoming a key figure in the world of private whiskey collections. Today, our guest, Daryl Haldane has been working in the whiskey industry for over 17 years. We dive into his experiences growing up in Scotland, the evolution of whiskey consumption, and the significance of brands like BeauMore. Join us as we explore the rich history and future of Scotch whiskey.

To understand what makes a whiskey influencer, we need to look beyond just the number of followers. While having a significant following is important, it's not the sole indicator of influence. Unfortunately, the rise of paid followers has muddied the waters. Some influencers are more interested in making money than in promoting quality whiskey. A true whiskey influencer is someone who is passionate about whiskey, knowledgeable about different brands and their stories, and genuinely enjoys consuming whiskey. They take the time to share their experiences and educate their audience.

Today, we have a special guest who has taken the world of Japanese whiskey by storm with his impressive collection. WhiskyBozz has become a prominent figure in the whiskey community, particularly for his focus on Ichiro's whiskey. In this episode, we will delve into the main themes discussed in our interview exploring his passion for whiskey, his love for Ichiro's, and the investment potential of Japanese whiskey. When it comes to Japanese whiskey, Ichiro's holds a special place in his heart. He was drawn to the brand for its exceptional quality, unique designs, and the rich history behind it. With the legacy of Hanyu distillery and Ichiro Akuto's innovative approach to whiskey-making, Ichiro's has become a symbol of Japanese whiskey royalty and creativity. One of the fascinating aspects of Japanese whiskey, particularly Ichiro's, is its investment potential. He has been collecting Ichiro's whiskeys since 2019, focusing on rare and special releases. He has witnessed the value of these bottles increase over time, making them not only a passion but also a smart investment.

Today, we have a special guest on the show, Bret Kolomyjec, the CEO and co-founder of Bourbon Heads. Bret has been making waves in the whiskey world with his unique concept of creating a community of whiskey lovers who not only invest in rare bottles but also come together to share their passion for this beloved spirit. In this article, we will delve into the main themes discussed in our conversation with Bret and explore the implications and potential impact of his vision for Bourbon Heads. Bret's journey in the world of whiskey began several years ago during a trip to Scotland and Ireland. Inspired by the rich whiskey culture he experienced there, Bret developed a passion for collecting and investing in whiskey. He realized that many whiskey enthusiasts, like himself, aspire to build a world-renowned collection but may not have the means or time to do so. This realization led to the first part of Bret's vision for Bourbon Heads - creating a club where members could have fractional ownership of a shared, large-scale bourbon collection.

On today's show, we have Denver Kramer, co-founder of the glassware company Denver and Liely. Denver has been in the whiskey industry for quite some time and has a wealth of knowledge and experience to share. In this episode, we will delve into his journey in the whiskey industry and the creation of his glassware company. He shares how his love for whiskey developed during his university years and how he transitioned from drinking whiskey with mixers to appreciating it on its own.

Denver and Liely started as a Christmas present to family and friends. What began as a small project quickly grew into a successful business. Denver's journey with whiskey began in his university years, starting with whiskey and Coke and gradually transitioning to appreciating the whiskey on its own. Denver and Liely's glassware is designed to enhance the whiskey-tasting experience.

Gordon Dundas, global brand ambassador for Ian Macleod Distillers, joins the Rolex Whiskey Passion Project podcast to discuss his love for whiskey and his role in promoting the brand. He shares his personal journey with whiskey, from his first sip of Glenfarclas 105 to his current position as a whiskey ambassador. Gordon emphasizes the importance of understanding the differences between distilleries and the unique stories behind each whiskey. He also discusses the role of ice in whiskey drinking and the growing popularity of high-ABV whiskeys.

Gordon highlights the significance of storytelling in the whiskey industry and the need to capture the stories of experienced professionals before they retire. He also mentions the exciting future of whiskey, with a focus on quality and the rise of women in the industry. Gordon's journey into the world of whiskey began during his university days. It was a fateful night when he tried his first sip of Glenfarclas 105, a powerful and intense whiskey.

He added water to the whiskey, and that's when he truly fell in love with the spirit. As Gordon's love for whiskey grew, he found himself working for Whiskey Magazine, a renowned publication in the industry. He became involved in organizing whiskey shows and events, such as Whiskey Live. These events provided a platform for whiskey enthusiasts to learn about different distilleries and the unique stories behind their whiskeys. Gordon emphasizes the importance of understanding the differences between distilleries, especially in Scotland, where there are 140 distilleries.

Chris Bittner's journey with Samaroli began with a chance encounter in New York City. He met Antonio Bleve, the CEO of Samaroli, during a tasting event. Little did Chris know that this meeting would change the course of his life. He recalls his first taste of Samaroli whiskey, saying, "I was very immediately blown away by it." This initial encounter sparked his curiosity and set him on a path to discover more about this unique brand. To understand the significance of Samaroli, one must delve into its rich history. Samaroli is the first non-British, non-Scottish independent bottler of whiskey. It all started in the aftermath of World War II when whiskey became a cultural indulgence in Italy. Italian entrepreneurs like Silvano Samaroli saw an opportunity to bring Scotch whiskey to the Italian market.

Daniel Pride, a spirit entrepreneur, joins the Rolex Whiskey Passion Project to discuss his journey in the whiskey business. He saw an opportunity in the spirits e-commerce space and started Via Shared Pour, an online store specializing in single-barrel picks, bourbon, and whiskey. After selling Via Shared Pour, Daniel focused on helping brands set up DTC operations. He highlights the benefits of DTC, such as increased control and quicker fulfillment. Daniel also discusses the impact of COVID-19 on the liquor industry and the rise of online sales.

Daniel Pride is a spirit entrepreneur with a background in staffing and a passion for the whiskey business. He saw a gap in the market and decided to enter the spirits e-commerce space, focusing on solving the problems around spirit shipping. He started Via Shared Pour, a national e-commerce store specializing in single barrel picks, bourbon, and whiskey. After selling Via Shared Pour, Daniel shifted his focus to helping brands set up direct-to-consumer (DTC) operations, handling fulfillment, and ensuring bottles reach customers quickly.

For more than a decade, Trevor Bowles has been changing the way that people drink spirits and cocktails. First in the restaurant industry, later as a Maker’s Mark Bourbon Diplomat in California, and now as the Manager of VIP Experience & Trade Engagement at the Maker’s Mark Distillery in Loretto, KY. He spends much of his time educating the trade and consumers on the hand-crafted nature of Maker’s Mark. Whether it’s studying social sustainability or visiting the world’s best whisky distilleries, he delights in learning more about distillation and the spirits industry. At a bar, his favorite drink order is a neat pour of Maker’s 46 or a Trinidad Sour with Maker's Mark Cask Strength" Title and Company or Business: Manager of VIP Experience & Trade Engagement at Maker's Mark.

Joel Wilbur, founder of Life of Luxe, shares his personal journey with whiskey and how he got into the world of spirits. He credits his grandfather for introducing him to whiskey, starting with Johnny Walker and blended scotch. Over time, Joel's palate evolved, and he began exploring different brands and styles of whiskey. He eventually discovered his love for bourbon, starting with Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve 20 Year Old. Joel also discusses the changing landscape of the whiskey industry, with prices skyrocketing and the limited availability of certain bottles.

Despite this, he still enjoys Scotch and Japanese whiskey, although he tends to gravitate towards sweeter options. Joel's passion for whiskey extends beyond the enjoyment of the spirit itself, as he also focuses on giving back through his events and social club.

Joel Wilbur is the founder of Life of Luxe, a brand that brings like-minded people together through events and barrel picks. With a passion for whiskey and a desire to make a difference in the world, Joel has created a social club that not only celebrates the enjoyment of fine spirits but also focuses on giving back to those in need.

Ben, Joe, and Kyle from The Bourbon Podcast join the Rolex Whiskey Passion Project podcast to discuss their journey into podcasting and their love for bourbon. They share their memorable whiskey experiences, from a weekend of bourbon tasting to discovering the joy of Pappy Van Winkle and Michter's Ten. They also discuss the changing landscape of the bourbon industry, with high-end bourbons becoming highly allocated and the rise of new distillers and products. The conversation highlights the passion and enthusiasm these podcasters have for bourbon and their commitment to sharing their knowledge with their listeners.

Koray Özdemir, The Whisky Monster, is a globetrotting, WSET Level 3 spirits certified whisky specialist, judge, and consultant, who has made his home in San Francisco by way of Turkey.

Koray explains how years ago, playing the saxophone was the perfect breather from his suffocating master’s studies. One night, Koray's nerves crept up on him as he was getting ready to play “Got a Match,” the bar manager handed me a glass of Laphroaig 10 Year. From then on, he knew his heart was with another — Whisky!

In 2016, Koray turned whisky from a passion into a full-time career. He quit my engineering job. Not even a year later, he packed his bags for San Francisco and realized he had created a Whisky Monster! Since then, Koray has built relationships with other whisky (or whiskey) brain trust members across the US and he meets more like-minded people during every Whisky Monster excursion.

Part 2 of Luxury Spirits Investment Chat with Gavin where he explains how he got started when it stemmed with the idea of a charity to raise for kids college fund by way of whisky.

Gavin, being a seasoned investor with a penchant for spotting lucrative opportunities, has found himself drawn to the world of whisky investing for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, Gavin is captivated by the steady growth and potential profitability of the whisky market.

With the global whisky market size already reaching an impressive US$64.0 billion in 2022 and projected to reach US$91.3 billion by 2028 with a remarkable CAGR of 6.1%, Gavin sees whisky as a smart and promising asset to invest in for the long term.

Since 2015, Mundell, with his unbridled enthusiasm and unmistakable burr, has taken on an unlikely endeavor: pushing Japanese whisky.

Living in Southern California and representing much of that region, Mundell recalls a time in the not-so-distant past when casual consumers expressed little interest in the intricacies of scotch malt. Desperate retailers were eager to bring in a Scotsman, as basic brand messaging can be surprisingly captivating when couched in a native accent.

But Mundell proved to be much more than a gimmick. “The rise of the craft cocktail community at that time was changing the way bartenders pursued education,” he says. “So I made the choice to educate bartenders on the category. I brought to life Scotland and whisky production through history, geography, and production.”

Vintage Whiskey, Liquor, & Cocktail Consultant with Vintage Whiskey and liquid assets ltd. He also is a Spirits Specialist & Barrel Broker. Vintage Whiskey relics tell the amazing story of whiskey brands, possibly gone, but not forgotten. liquid assets ltd is a retelling of History through Vintage Liquor Bottles & Bar Collectibles.

Whisky Sounds Good With Glenfiddich Ambassador, Dave Paradice. Dave has decided to mix Deep House Music with Malt Whisky. We Discuss that, his path, and much more.

Also known as “Whisky A Go Girl”, Jenna is a self-made whisky writer and blogger. After her husband introduced her to single malt whisky at their home in Los Angeles, she dove nose-first into the world of spirits.

Now having enjoyed incredible drams all over the world, she continues to make a name for herself, working as a brand ambassador and educating people about whisky.

From https://www.whiskyagogirl.com:

I’m so happy to have you here, in this space and hope that you learn something new and exciting about whisky, rum, gin, and more! I fell in love with whisky many years ago and it has since thrust me down the rabbit hole of distilled spirits! I very much enjoy diving in nose first and sharing my discoveries, adventures, and reviews, all while educating in a fun and welcoming environment!

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) is an international members club that bottles the world’s widest selection of exceptional and rare single cask, single malts for discerning whisky lovers from all corners of the world. They like to think of themselves as unconventional, adventurous – and a lot of fun. The SMWS was founded in Edinburgh in 1983, and now the Society is firmly established as the world’s foremost malt whisky club and remains truly one of a kind.

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society is present in 21 countries around the world. SMWS whisky is only ever bottled from a single cask, at cask strength with no water or coloring added and with no chill filtration. Each cask is unique and by definition a limited edition – whisky as the cask intended. The Scotch Malt Whisky Society attracts whisky enthusiasts from all walks of life; from younger members discovering whisky for the first time to experienced connoisseurs.

Ewan Morgan boasts an impressive 28-year career in the spirits industry. A former Master of Whisky, Ewan has served as the National Director of Diageo’s Masters of Whisky program. His career spans from Maltman and chemical analysis in a Speyside Distillery to online marketing and Scotch Ambassador. In 2016, Ewan was named World Whisky Ambassador.

Ewan was also inducted into as a Keeper of the Quaich in 2013, the highest accolade in the Scotch Whisky Industry. Ewan has also been nominated for American Ambassador of the Year (2016) and Scotch Whisky Ambassador of the Year (2011-2016). Ewan is passionate about the power of education and being a valued part of the bartending and hospitality community.

Sam Filmus is the passionate and approachable president of ImpEx Beverages (an Importer of fine spirits from around the world) and JVS Imports (a California Distribution company). He has done what many of us aspire to in life, take a passion for something and turn it into a career.

While Sam does handle public relations, product selection, sales and marketing, logistics, and social media you will always find him hard at work, happy to do anything for the success of his staff, his customers, and the consumers who love his products… we have even caught him in the warehouse or behind the wheel of a forklift.

Sam received his Whisky Certification from the University of the Highlands and Islands Moray College early on in his career but to him, his true education came from the real world and the things he has learned along the way. He has bestowed the honor of being inducted as a Keeper of the Quaich in 2018, a lifetime achievement well respected by many in the industry. Even with this title, you will find Sam to be both humble and willing to share his knowledge with anyone who will listen.

He feels that educating people about the unique story behind each brand and the passion of the people involved in creating these wonderful spirits is more important than anything and loves to share this with those he meets whether at a tasting or just walking down the aisle of a store. He is never too busy to answer a question or strike up a conversation with those he meets.

Martin Eber is Chief Writer at TimeforWhisky.com, based in Hong Kong. Martin has been running TimeforWhisky.com for 11 years, covering the Australian and Asian whisky scenes, and also acts as a spirits consultant, judge and educator in the spirits industry.

Joseph Hyman, a resident of Boston, has over 15 years of experience as a whisky consultant, including more than two years as head of Whisky & Rare Spirits at Bonhams New York.

A leading authority in the field, he has curated a number of successful auctions featuring a variety of superior offerings, from unusual American bourbons to notable decades-old scotches, to rare Cuban rums, exotic gins, and more.

Hyman’s diverse experience also includes several years as an investment analyst and portfolio manager, lending a unique perspective to his work at Skinner.

John Laurie is the managing director of Scotland's oldest working distillery, Glenturret. His journey with whiskey began in his childhood when his grandfather would often smoke his pipe and enjoy some black bottles of whiskey. When John was in his mid-20s, his father-in-law invited him to attend a whiskey show in Edinburgh. There, he fell in love with whiskey, the stories behind the brands, and the liquid itself. John was particularly impressed with the brand's Glen Rothus and Compass Box and found the way they told their stories particularly captivating.

John's early years of disrupting the whiskey industry were marked by experimentation and having fun. Dalwini was John's entry point into single malt drinking and could be purchased for around 40-50 pounds. Johnny Walker Blue was more expensive at 180 pounds. John's father-in-law got him into the whiskey industry and it took some time for him to get to where he is now. The Scottish whiskey industry is not very large, so John has been privileged to have been part of it and knows a lot of people in the industry.

Brown Forman is an American company, best known as the owner of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey, and bourbon brands Old Forester and Woodford Reserve.

But in 2016, it got into Scotch whisky in a big way, buying The BenRiach Distillery Company, which included three distilleries: Benriach of course, in Speyside; the famous Highlands distillery, Glendronach; and also in the Highlands, but somewhat lesser known, Glenglassaugh.

Stewart Buchanan held his role since 2012, prior to which he was Benriach’s production manager, so he has tremendous insight into these distilleries and the Scotch whisky industry generally.

He was in Australia for the launch of Glendronach 50 Year Old, the oldest expression it’s ever released.

Distilled in 1971, The GlenDronach Aged 50 Years has quietly slumbered over five long decades in rare Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry casks from the Spanish bodegas of Jerez in Andalucía.

David Mandell is currently the co-founder and CEO of Whiskey House of Kentucky, which is the largest, most flexible, and sophisticated custom whiskey manufacturing facility in the United States. The project commenced in February 2022 and is scheduled to begin operations in 2024 in Elizabethtown, Kentucky.

Prior to founding Whiskey House, Mandell was the co-founder and former President & CEO of The Bardstown Bourbon Company, ("BBCo"). At BBCo, Mandell created, launched, and managed the company's Napa-valley bourbon distillery destination experience in Bardstown, Kentucky.

Mandell led the development and operation of what is now one of the largest and most sophisticated whiskey distilleries in the United States - -producing custom rye, whiskey, and bourbon for prominent brands including Jefferson's, High West, Belle Meade, Hirsch, and many others through its one-of-a-kind Collaborative Distilling Program. Mandell was also responsible for the development and launch of the Company's bourbon brands, full-scale restaurant and bar, and visitors center.

During his tenure at BBCo, Mandell served on the Board of the Kentucky Distillers Association, and the Bourbon Capital Community Alliance, and currently serves as the Chairman of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival Board of Directors. Mandell achieved a successful exit when the Company was sold to Pritzker Private Capital in March 2022.

Robin Coupar, a native of Edinburgh, Scotland, is a leading whisky expert who has dedicated more than 26 years to the industry. Robin is the Global Whisky Advocate for the Campari Group’s whisky portfolio which includes Glen Grant single malt Scotch whisky, Wild Turkey Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey, Russell’s Reserve Bourbon and the brand's rye whiskey expression, and Forty Creek Canadian Whisky.

In 2016 he was inducted into the Keepers of the Quaich. Robin’s passion and knowledge of whisky started in Scotland but extended well past the UK borders. Based now in California, his whisky expertise and reputation were built through a series of assignments and creating consumer events with some of the most renowned names in the world including Diageo and Moet Hennessy where he worked on many famous spirits brands. His experience has also seen him work with Glenrothes, Bowmore, Auchentoshan, and of course in the realm of Bourbon.

Gavin and Allison met at a Scotch and Time tasting event in Brooklyn around five years ago when Gavin already had a significant following on Rolex whiskey. Allison was a professional ballerina for much of her life and only started working in the whiskey business after she finished her career as a ballerina.

Gavin asked Allison why she gravitated towards whiskey, and Allison said it was because she got her first salaried job in the industry. They both reminisced on the Scotch and Time event and how it was the start of Jenna's journey in the whiskey world.

A 21-year-old with no experience with alcohol was invited to happy hour by a colleague. When they arrived at the bar, the only drink available was a Cosmopolitan. The colleague explained that they would drink the cocktails, but the 21-year-old had never tried one before. When they tried to drink it, the Cosmopolitan flew across the room. To avoid paying for the drink or the dry cleaning, the 21-year-old decided to try whiskey instead, selecting it based on the glassware it was served in.

Nate has developed one of the largest social media followings in the world of whisk(e)y by combining his two great loves, being in nature and drinking excellent whisky.

His Whisky With a View channels feature beautiful photos of whiskies in awesome natural settings and surroundings.

Nate Woodruff from Whisky With A View treated the Beast Masters to a stellar day of hiking and sipping great drams in New York's Hudson Valley.

Single cask bottlings by one of Scotland’s oldest whisky families, Finn Thomson Whisky has been Distilling, blending, trading, and selling for nine generations and doesn't plan on stopping any time soon.

Finn Thomson may have gone the farthest and spent the most in demonstrating that whisky is in his DNA, commissioning specialist research to investigate the family connections with whisky. Finn was able to construct a comprehensive back story that formed the plot for a glossy high-production value advertisement film that has “Finn” running up Scottish mountains to oversee his.

Where some indie bottlers struggle to sustain the backstory after a little scrutiny, Finn Thomson’s relatives were significant characters in the whisky business. The company website states that in 1772 James Thomson was running an illicit still. In 1838 the Thomson family acquire the tiny Grandtully Distillery. The distillery output was just 5,000 gallons a year (a cottage industry, really); it closed in 1910 after Prime Minister Lloyd George increased taxes.

Mahesh Patel founder of Universal Whisky Experience, Avid Connoisseur and Whisky Collector, made history when buying the world’s first most expensive whisky bottle ‘The Dalmore Trinitas’ valued at $165,000 back in October 2010.

Since then he has been made keeper of the Quaich – a society at the heart of the Scottish whisky industry and became the Freeman of City of London and livery man for the worship company of distillers for his contribution in the whisky industry and has been featured in many television interviews talking about his passion for whisky since his teen years, and making his dream come to life with the launch of Universal Whisky and its first super tasting event (The Nth – Ultimate Whisky and Spirits Experience) in Las Vegas.

Since the launch of Universal Whisky Experience, Mahesh Patel with his pioneering ability and vision has gone on to create the world’s best Whisky experiences internationally and locally opening and tasting some of the world’s most expensive whiskies granting exclusive access in the world of whisky.

Gavin welcomes Yili Ferati to his show and the two discuss Yili's passion project with whiskey. Yili reveals that he has been bartending for 15 years and got thrown into the role when one of their bartenders had to be let go. He then explains how he found his passion in whiskey and has since become Alaska's number one whiskey bar, with recognition from the Bourbon Reviewer's Top 100 and Whiskey Advocate. He credits his success to his father's philosophy and the bar's name is Fiori di Italia. Fifteen years ago, whiskey was limited to the usual suspects and there was not much action in the whiskey scene.

This conversation discusses the whiskey-drinking culture in the early 2000s. They mention that Jack Daniels and Jim Beam were the most popular whiskeys and that Makers Mark was a more expensive option. They talk about single malt scotches being popular, such as Glenlevitt, Glenmorangie, and Balvenny McAllen. They then discuss whiskey cocktails and how rye was the most popular with bartenders early on. They mention that McAllen was not as popular 15 years ago as it is today, with only 12-15 stills. Finally, they mention that most people were drinking whiskey on the rocks, rather than neat.

The conversation discusses the evolution of cocktails from 20 years ago to the present day. The speaker and the listener both recall a time when there were only 4 standard cocktails, and the speaker remembers when mojitos came on the market and it was a pain to make. Now the speaker makes at least 100 Old Fashioneds every night and attributes the popularity of this classic cocktail to the show Mad Men. The listener mentions the large cubes of ice and maraschino cherries that are now popular and the speaker comments that they make their own housemade cherries instead. They then discuss the increase in the price of cocktails, as people now want more expensive spirits such as Wilderness Trail Rye or Rabbit Hole Rye. The conversation concludes with the listener noting that money is no longer an issue and people will pay whatever for their spirits.

Today we advise novice whiskey collectors and investors to form a plan and stick to it. They should not get caught up in the hype around certain products, as it won’t necessarily result in a positive outcome. Gavin also cautions against buying too much immediately and buying into mass-produced “allocated” whiskey. They got started in the whiskey collecting and investing game by noticing a shortage of top-shelf whiskey on the east coast, which made its way to the west. They took a hunch and went deep with Japanese whiskey, which eventually became popular. The takeaway is to have a plan and stick to it, and not be swayed by hype.

In this conversation, Gavin and Karma Slomianski, the BlockBar community manager, discuss the differences between investing in whiskey for the short-term and long term. They have been investing in whiskey for 8-16 years and have found success in the venture. They emphasize the importance of having a hunch and getting in before the hype. Gavin urges listeners to remember that whiskey takes time to mature and that 25 years ago no one was interested in whiskey. They suggest having a plan and sticking to it, and keeping an eye out for new opportunities.

They also discuss the demand for older whiskey, particularly 25-year-old and older whiskey, in the market. They discussed how it is difficult to find and that the effort and storage requirements can make it difficult to obtain. They suggested looking for older whiskey and the demand associated with it as an investment opportunity. They also discussed how to ensure the whiskey purchased is legitimate, as fraud is rampant in the market, and how to store it properly.

The conversation discusses the shady side of the whiskey industry, where some people will go to a bar or eBay to buy empty bottles and then fill them with any liquid they choose and resell them as rare and expensive whiskey. Gavin talks about the difficulty of storing and transporting the whiskey, as well as the dangers of not being able to ensure the bottles. He also mentions Blockbar, a platform that offers storage and a tradeable base, which could provide a solution to the problem. They warn that if the deal seems too good to be true, it likely is and to be careful when purchasing rare whiskey.

Tracie Franklin is a whiskey educator, marketing consultant, public speaker, bartender, and distillation apprentice who lives in Washington D.C. She is a trained actress and singer who traveled the world performing but now uses those skills to share her passion and knowledge for whiskey with diverse groups. She has appeared as a spirits expert on local and National media including; LIVE on the Today Show, Good Morning America, Forbes, Chilled, and Imbibe magazine.

After recognizing the lack of diversity in the whiskey category, she co-founded a whiskey marketing company called Whersky which created inclusive and educational events for ALL whiskey drinkers. Her curiosity and passion for whiskey led to opportunities to study and distill alongside legendary whiskey personalities. Eventually, she became an ambassador and had jobs representing numerous whisky brands including; Glenfiddich, Angel’s Envy, Ardbeg, Johnnie Walker, and Hudson whiskey. She is currently studying distillation and leadership with the Nearest and Jack Advancement Initiative.

No secrets, mythical legends, or fabricated stories. The Bardstown Bourbon Company is a New Blend of Bourbon Makers pushing the boundaries through innovation while honoring the traditional art of making whiskey.

Set on 100 acres of active farmland in the heart of the Bourbon Capital of the World, they produce the highest-quality, authentic Kentucky Bourbon, whiskey, and rye brands as well as offer custom whiskey production through our one-of-a-kind Collaborative Distilling Program.

They are the first Napa-Valley style destination on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® to combine our distilling, culinary, and beverage expertise to create a modern, authentic, bourbon experience.

Starlight Distillery is located at Huber’s Orchard & Winery in beautiful Starlight, IN. Their plans for the distillery started in the mid-’90s and they were inspired by their ancestors who once distilled fine brandies in this area in the early 1800s.

Producing brandy is no small task and being the first to walk through this process in the State of Indiana was not without its share of frustration. Their master distiller, Ted Huber, and his co-owner Greg Huber spent about 2 years researching and working with our legislators in Indianapolis to pass important legislation that would allow us to produce both wine and brandy. Once this legislation was passed the lighter side of distilling began in the rolling hills of Starlight, IN!

Although the first product has been released, they find ourselves busily working to release the next products which include an apple and pear brandy. There were also several products that we produced by infusing their brandy and wines together over the course of the last four years. Those products include our Blueberry Port, Raspberry Infusion, Peach Nectar, Apple, and Pear Infusion. These products have been very popular for them and have been competitive in many dessert wine competitions.

Jessica Adkins of H&A Barrel Management joins the show this week to share a bit about barrel leasing and how she supports breweries with this act. The group H&A is focused on the operational management of barrel inventory. They propose a global offer.

H&A Group has tailored its leasing solutions to the financial constraints of the wine industry, offering customers the most flexible, most advanced, and innovative financing. Their accessible, customizable solution provides visibility to costs and enables you to manage these more efficiently.

Reliable, high value-added service: instant, accurate, financial, and operational information for your barrel inventory. The H&A Group manages the resale of your barrels at the end of their lifecycle on your behalf. Their team of specialists is available to handle this complex, time-consuming task.

The 1 West Dupont Circle Wines and Liquors is the modern branch of a family-owned business founded in 1995 nestled in a nostalgic liquor store in the heart of our nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. Serving specialty-buying customers around the country for more than two decades and generations with hand-crafted, quality liquor for enjoyment and private collections.

The brick-and-mortar shop began with a firm focus on white-glove customer service that created long-time friends who came back again and again to source the most prestigious and rare libations available. The 1 West Dupont Circle Wines and Liquors is born out of the idea of expanding that service and loyalty across the country at the click of a button and for your convenience.

They want you to feel like family, so please don’t hesitate to use their phone number, email, or live chat features on this site to ask questions or submit personal requests. They stand by all of their products, purchases, and customer service interactions. Everything The 1 West Dupont Circle Wines and Liquors sells is hand inspected by their team to ensure the product you ordered is the product you received.

Today’s guest is Jon Cecil. He has been in the bourbon game since about 2008, when he fell in love with whiskey. Prior to that, Jon enjoyed rum, but after college, he realized he lived in Kentucky and should probably figure out what the deal was with the products that proudly called his state home. Jon went on the bourbon trail and was immediately hooked.

He started trying everything he could get my hands on. Around 2012, he realized that these bottles were becoming harder to find, so Jon was selective in finding them, hunting out that stuff that a few years later would become rare and impossible. We built a collection that spanned just about every Kentucky distillery and beyond. Hosting people for bourbon tastings and spreading the good word of bourbon became one of my favorite things to do.

Jon moved around a lot, around Louisville, lived in Vienna, Austria for a short period, to Richmond, Virginia, and finally back to Louisville. Once he was back and settled, he finally was able to buy a house. Over the course of the prior 10 years, Jon had been thinking about and imagining my dream man cave. He knew one thing, It had to have a hidden entrance. He bought my house in 2019, and when covid hit in early 2020, he found my chance to build this room.

Stewart is Benriach’s torchbearer and champion around the world, and he travels constantly in his role as the Benriach Global Brand Ambassador. So dedicated is he to Benriach that during the distillery's renovation, he slept on the floor of the maltings loft. Never at home in Speyside for long, you will find him on the road spreading the word of our award-winning single malts.

A Speyside single malt Scotch whisky as intriguing and extraordinary as Benriach could not have come to be without a unique whisky-making heritage, dating from 1898 when founder John Duff built his distillery.

Ruggedly beautiful, Benriach stands on the site of the old Riach farm in north Speyside, drawing water from a mineral-rich aquifer, deep beneath the distillery. Thanks to a long-standing tradition of distilling three styles of whisky; classic unpeated, Highland peated, and triple distilled, together with an eclectic selection of casks from around the world, our whisky makers are able to explore the full flavor possibilities of single malt, creating some of the richest, most multi-layered whiskies in Speyside.

Brad Japhe is a freelance journalist specializing in food, beverage, and travel. He moonlights as a beer and spirits consultant, hosting monthly craft pairings/educational dinners in both Los Angeles and New York, and curating drink menus for festivals and restaurants.

He prefers Scotch to bourbon, IPAs before lagers, and In-n-Out over Shake Shack. His favorite breed of dog is unequivocally the Siberian Husky and he suffers from an irrational, unrequited love for the New York Knicks.

He is the Beer and Spirits Columnist for the Village Voice in New York City, is a regular contributor to Los Angeles and San Francisco-based periodicals, serves as a beer consultant for notable restaurants on both coasts, and hosts a monthly craft drinks/gourmet food educational pairing series. He has interviewed a diverse array of talent, ranging from NFL quarterback Eli Manning to Brooklyn Brewmaster Garrett Oliver.

The modern “Cocktail Renaissance” began over a decade ago when a few pioneers around the country re-ignited the bar scene by introducing drink programs that focus on quality, creativity, and history, and by bringing hospitality back to the bar scene. H. Joseph Ehrmann is one of those pioneers.

Over the past thirteen years, he has built Elixir into a bar that many publications have called one of the “Best in America”. Elixir To Go is our way of bringing all of that passion, knowledge, quality, and service to your event.

The 11th proprietor of San Francisco’s second oldest saloon (Elixir), H. Joseph Ehrmann is recognized as a pioneer in the revitalization of cocktail culture today. The saloon reopened as Elixir in 2003 and soon garnered awards and press for its innovative cocktails, excellent service, and engaging events. Since the beginning, customers requested all of those qualities be delivered to their own events, and thus, Elixir To Go was born.

We dive in today with Saul Zelmanowitz, the mastermind behind the @scotchminisz Instagram account. Saul invited me to his home in Queens to view his collection of over 3,000 bottles of mini single malt scotch whiskies.

Saul lived in New York City all his life (60+ years). He's been collecting scotch miniatures, mostly single malts, for about 30 years because it’s his choice of drink.

Sauls's collection currently consists of about 3200 different bottles, most of which are on display in his den. You can check in with him on his IG account, @scotchminisz. This is where Saul posts pics and reels of his collection.

A New York City hospitality veteran of 20 years, Tommy has kept his finger on the pulse of this fast-paced and ever-changing industry. His vision to create a sophisticated venue for food and spirits connoisseurs was realized when he opened The Flatiron Room in 2012.

Tommy has made television appearances on Bloomberg, Fox News, Business Insider, and Wealth TV to speak about his venues and trends in the industry. He has also been featured in Robb Report, Worth Magazine, Wall Street Journal, Modern Luxury, Social Life Magazine, and Departures, among many others. He has vast knowledge about food and spirits and an even stronger passion for learning more.

He regularly teaches classes on whiskey at both of his restaurants and at locations throughout the world. He sits on the Board of Directors for the NoMad Alliance and serves as a long-standing judge for the New York International Spirits Competition.

Industry veterans Tommy Patrick and John Slagle created The Ballard Cut with the hopes of bringing their passions for Japanese whiskey and hospitality to the Ballard neighborhood. The goal for the restaurant was to bring local, seasonal food to the forefront, make fabulous and rare whiskeys accessible, and share the collective knowledge of wine, spirits, and cooking with our friends and neighbors.

Tommy Patrick has been in the industry for more than 20 years. When he turned 16, his mom gave him his first job as a dishwasher in her restaurant. By the time Tommy was 21, he realized he wanted to open his own restaurant. Not only did Tommy have a passion for food, but he also loved guiding people with flavors, and introducing people to new dishes and whiskeys.

Tommy wanted to make this restaurant both a 5-star experience and utterly unpretentious. The Ballard Cut team is here to share their passions with guests and they hope they enjoy them.

Samuel Falic, who is the co-founder and COO of BlockBar, Inc, was born and raised in Miami, Florida. As part of the next generation of the Falic Group, owners of the largest duty-free operation in the Western Hemisphere, Samuel found interest in both finance and law. After completing his bachelor's degree in Accounting at the University of Miami, Samuel continued his education at the Cardozo School of Law in New York, completing his J.D.

Following that, Samuel went on to join Duty-Free Americas, and his background in finance and law allowed him to pursue a variety of positions within the company. After initially working in the legal department, he transitioned into the role of Director of Business Development

Pat McCarthy @worldofwhiskey has spent 30+ years working and supporting liquor & wine companies. As a whiskey consultant, his current job includes sampling and selecting numerous barrels each year to be bottled for the Bayway World of Liquor Barrel Program and Whisky Peddler label. He has also judged numerous international whisky competitions.

Jay Golinsky, based in London, UK, is the Director of a Real Estate Agency and the man behind @whiskyheaven, now boasting over 7,500 followers on his Instagram Page.

Jay has been a collector at heart and whatever his chosen collectible, he has a ‘both feet first’ attitude and with Whisky, it was his whole body first! Having gotten into and enjoyed drinking whisky with his girlfriend’s father, his mind went to what is collectible that would look nice on the bar.

Having sourced a rare Hibiki bottle from Australia, by the time it had arrived one had sold at auction for a higher price than paid and the hunt for more began there.

Andrea is Michter's Master of Maturation as well as its Chief Operating Officer. As Michter's Master of Maturation, Andrea manages barrel specifications, barrel procurement, heat cycling, temperature monitoring during aging, tracking maturation of barrels, whiskey filtration in preparation for bottling, and innovation to continue to improve the aging process.

Andrea has achieved many honors during her illustrious career including being the first woman to ever serve as Chair of the Kentucky Distillers' Association and being welcomed into The Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame®. Andrea is admired for her accomplishments in the whiskey industry and has been involved in all aspects of making Michter's whiskeys.

Before joining Michter's, Andrea spent over ten years with Diageo in various whiskey-related positions including Director of Distillation and Maturation, in North America - overseeing both the U.S. and Canadian distillation and maturation programs. Prior to her departure from Diageo, she was the company’s Director of Whiskey Strategy for North American operations. She holds a Master of Chemical Engineering degree from the University of Louisville, and she has been highlighted in the KET television documentary, Kentucky Bourbon Tales: Distilling the Family Business.