Bourbon Pursuit

Bourbon Pursuit

The Official Podcast of Bourbon! The best in news, reviews and interviews with people making the bourbon whiskey industry happen. Join hosts Kenny Coleman, Ryan Cecil, and Fred Minnick as they talk with prominent guests and provide insight on American whiskey 3 times a week. Catch all new episodes every Thursday with special Whiskey Quickie reviews on Tuesday and get caught up on bourbon news with This Week in Bourbon on Friday. read less

Our Editor's Take

Bourbon Pursuit is a delightful podcast for new and seasoned whiskey connoisseurs alike. Hosts Kenny, Ryan, and Fred help listeners learn all there is to know about the time-honored spirit. They visit some of the world's most iconic distilleries and provide note-by-note whiskey tasting reviews. This podcast is a conversational, engaging way to discover new distilleries and whiskey brands.

From Ancient Age to Yamazaki, if there's a bourbon on the shelf, this podcast will discuss it. The three Bourbon Pursuit hosts talk to master distillers to explore the distillation process. They also explain the difference between single-barrel and straight rye whiskey. They teach listeners what qualifies a whiskey as bourbon. Plus, they explore the historical significance of whiskey in Kentucky towns like Louisville and Bardstown. Kenny, Ryan, and Fred talk through classics, limited editions, and fresh-bottled whiskeys. If there is breaking bourbon news, this podcast is the place to find it.

Bourbon Pursuit listeners also learn about the hosts themselves. The three discuss their personal whiskey collections and adventures of finding rare bottles. They share their first encounters, including good old college whiskey and Coke. And listeners find out how, for these three, a love for whiskey comes with a love for hunting.

Each host brings unique experience, knowledge, and passion to the show. Kenny has loved all things whiskey for decades. Ryan is a Kentucky native who grew up in the state's rich bourbon culture. Fred is a celebrated author and the founder of Bourbon & Beyond, a renowned whiskey festival. Their expertise and banter result in a captivating listen.

The Bourbon Pursuit podcast releases new episodes every few days. It is great for listeners of shows like Dads Drinking Bourbon and The Bourbon Hunters.

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Introducing Bourbon Pursuit

Introducing Bourbon Pursuit

Bourbon Pursuit is your source for the best in news, reviews, and interviews with people making the bourbon industry happen. The show dives into bourbon culture with informed, captivating, and casual dialogue. Join hosts Kenny Coleman, Ryan Cecil, and Fred Minnick as they talk with prominent guests and tackle critical American whiskey issues. Catch all new episodes every Thursday with special Whiskey Quickie reviews on Tuesday and the latest news with This Week in Bourbon on Friday

Episodes

Whiskey Quickie: King of Kentucky Bourbon Review

Whiskey Quickie: King of Kentucky Bourbon Review

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review King of Kentucky Bourbon. This 16 year old bourbon is 130.4 proof and $350 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

Behind The Pursuit: The Mellwood Legacy Collection

Behind The Pursuit: The Mellwood Legacy Collection

Subscribe to Behind The Pursuit: From Bourbon to Brand Building on the history surrounding Mellwood that we dove into on Episode 66, today we are talking about the upcoming Mellwood Legacy Collection release which pays homage to the historic Mellwood Distillery. We recap a bit of the history of the distillery, the creative process behind the new labels, and the unique offerings of the Derby Town and Old Anvil labels. The conversation also touches on the current state of the whiskey market and the opportunities for independent bottlers. While a press release isn't out yet on these, we wanted to give you a peek behind the curtain of what to expect. We hit on: An overview of the Mellwood Distillery history and reasoning behind the Mellwood Legacy Collection The new labels kicking off the Mellwood Legacy Collection How the blending approached is different from Pursuit United The estimated launch date of the Mellwood Legacy Collection and much more. Be sure to visit pursuitspirits.com and click on Visit Us to book a tasting or barrel selection experience. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at podcast@pursuitspirits.com.

488 - Is MGP in Trouble and Who Has Asinine Prices? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #100

488 - Is MGP in Trouble and Who Has Asinine Prices? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #100

It's BCR100 and we look at how the last decade of bourbon has changed and what we've learned. Then we discuss the implications of MGP rolling back production. We wrap up the show talking about what producers we feel price accordingly but it quickly changes to those that are pricing aggressively. Show Notes: 00:00-The Lamb Diet and Bourbon Rituals 01:46-Celebrating 100 Episodes of Bourbon Pursuit 02:56-Whiskey Experimentation: The Debate on Oak Cubes 05:40-Reflections on a Decade of Bourbon 16:08-The Evolution of Bourbon Consumers 28:18-MGP's Market Shift and Future Directions 40:56-Exploring the Unique Distillery Experience 43:11-The Impact of MGP on the Whiskey Industry 46:01-Brand vs. Whiskey: What Drives Consumer Choices? 57:26-Pricing Strategies in the Whiskey Market 01:10:39-Celebrating Community and Connection in Bourbon Support this podcast on Patreon

Whiskey Quickie: SirDavis Whisky Review

Whiskey Quickie: SirDavis Whisky Review

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review SirDavis Whisky. This non-age stated whiskey is 88 proof and $90 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

TWiB: A Brief History of Alcohol and Election Day, MGP Pulls Back on Distilling, Wyoming Whiskey Queen of the Tetons

TWiB: A Brief History of Alcohol and Election Day, MGP Pulls Back on Distilling, Wyoming Whiskey Queen of the Tetons

It's This Week in Bourbon for November 8th 2024. A brief history of alcohol and Election Day, MGP pulls back on distilling, and Wyoming Whiskey proudly introduces Queen of the Tetons.Show Notes: brief history of alcohol and Election Day MGP pulls back on distilling Old Grand-Dad 16 years Wyoming Whiskey Queen of the Tetons Stock Exchange Club of Los Angeles Saints Alley Nobleman Support this podcast on Patreon

487 - Making Bartenders Fans of Your Brand with Lindsey Johnson of Camp Runamok

A lot of distributors tell us that brands are built behind the bar. To a degree that is true. These folks are on the front lines making drinks and have to be knowledgeable about what they are creating. Yet, a bartenders job is high stress and they don't get a chance to get immersed in a brand so that's where Camp Runamok comes in. We're joined by Lindsey Johnson who manages this fantasy camp for bartenders. Bartenders from around the country write essays like they are filing a college application to be accepted into a week of events with Camp Runamok. We talk about what benefits there are for both sides when it comes to the campers and the brands who support it. Show Notes: 00:00-Introduction to Camp Runamuck 06:00-The Evolution of Bartending and Industry Relationships 12:02-The Concept and Growth of Camp Runamuck 18:08-Experiential Learning and Community Building 24:10-Mentorship and the Future of Bartending 28:09-Creating Safe Spaces for Sober Campers 32:07-The Evolution of Drinking Culture Among Gen Z 35:21-Navigating a Career in Bartending 40:40-Supporting Small Craft Brands in the Industry 43:47-The Impact of Camp Run Amok on Bartenders 49:34-Building Community and Connections in Bartending Support this podcast on Patreon

Whiskey Quickie: Bardstown Bourbon Company + Blackberry Berry Farm Brewery Review

Whiskey Quickie: Bardstown Bourbon Company + Blackberry Berry Farm Brewery Review

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Bardstown Bourbon Company Collaborative Series with Blackberry Berry Farm Brewery. This 6-14 year old finished bourbon is 107 proof and $160 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

TWiB: Buffalo Trace Antique Collection for 2024, Rabbit Hole 8 YR Boxergrail Founder’s Collection, Bourbon de Luxe Makes A Return

TWiB: Buffalo Trace Antique Collection for 2024, Rabbit Hole 8 YR Boxergrail Founder’s Collection, Bourbon de Luxe Makes A Return

It's This Week in Bourbon for November 1st 2024. Buffalo Trace Antique Collection has returned for 2024, Rabbit Hole Distillery releases Boxergrail Founder’s Collection, andd Bourbon de Luxe the famous brand from the 1900s makes it triumphant return.Show Notes: Fraser & Thompson launched Uncorked The Buffalo Trace Antique Collection 2024 B. H. James Distillers celebrates their second Anniversary with 3 releases Wheel Horse Whiskey Cigar Blend Bourbon Woodford Reserve annual holiday bourbon bottle. Rabbit Hole Boxergrail Founder’s Collection Blue Note Honey Bourbon Cask Jeptha Creed Red, White & Blue Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Frank August CASE STUDY: 04 Blade and Bow 22-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Rolling Fork Spirits announces Bourbon de Luxe Josh Howes and Tommy Craggs launch Watch Hill Whiskey Company with 20 year bourbons Support this podcast on Patreon

486 - Turning the Wholesale Bourbon Marketplace Online with Rob Arnold of Barrel Hub

486 - Turning the Wholesale Bourbon Marketplace Online with Rob Arnold of Barrel Hub

If you have followed the progress of this show since the beginning, you can see the evolution of what we talk about. In the beginning it was about brands and Master Distillers, then when we started Pursuit Spirits we were introduced into the world of brokers and the middle layer of people who own barrels without brands. That information has made its way to you and now you know more about the market. But that brokered market is heavily guarded. It's a series of handshakes, phone calls, and emails with excel spreadsheets with prices to see what's available. However, Rob Arnold with Barrel Hub is trying to make access easier for everyone. Rob isn't new to this game. He spent his undergraduate in Texas and is the person responsible for the pecan yeast strain used by TX Whiskey to this day. We talk about his background and how that led to the idea of creating a portal where industry folks can buy and sell barrels on the wholesale market. Show Notes: 00:00-Introduction to Bourbon Pursuit and Market Evolution 03:10-The Brokered Whiskey Market and Its Challenges 05:56-Rob Arnold's Background and Innovative Ideas 09:07-The Role of Yeast in Whiskey Production 11:53-The Journey of TX Whiskey and Its Unique Identity 15:08-Navigating the Craft Whiskey Landscape 17:53-The Science Behind TX Whiskey's Yeast 21:09-The Impact of Pernod Ricard's Acquisition 30:07-Navigating Challenges During COVID-19 32:23-The Science of Whiskey: Writing and Education 36:00-Innovative Barrel Financing Solutions 40:40-Introducing Barrel Hub: A Marketplace for Whiskey 46:12-Transparency in the Whiskey Market 52:44-Empowering Entrepreneurs in the Whiskey Industry Support this podcast on Patreon

Whiskey Quickie: Old Forester The 117 Series Rum Cask Finish Bourbon Review

Whiskey Quickie: Old Forester The 117 Series Rum Cask Finish Bourbon Review

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Old Forester The 117 Series Rum Cask Finish Bourbon. This non-age stated whiskey is 95 proof and $65 MSRP (375ml). Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

TWiB: Binnys Van Winkle 18 YR Sets Auction Record, Old Carter Goes Up For Auction, Baker's Limited High Rye Bourbon Release

TWiB: Binnys Van Winkle 18 YR Sets Auction Record, Old Carter Goes Up For Auction, Baker's Limited High Rye Bourbon Release

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 25th 2024. A new record breaking sale happend for a private Van Winkle bottling at auction, Old Carter and all its assets go up for auction, Baker's releases a limited edition high rye bourbon.Show Notes: Van Winkle 18 Year Special Reserve Bourbon Binnys Private Barrel Selection Highest Unicorn Auction Green River Distilling moving to Whiskey Row Jackson Purchase Distillery will open a new corporate office in Louisville Old Carter for the entire brand and assets go up for auction Jim Beam Winter Reserve Monk's Road Rye Whiskey Baker’s High-Rye Bourbon Lost Lantern Fall 2024 Collection Buzzard’s Roost Kindred Collaboration Bourbon New Riff Distilling Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey made with biscuit malt Support this podcast on Patreon

485 - What's Life Like After A $215M Acquisition with Mike Paladini and Danny Polise of Penelope Bourbon

485 - What's Life Like After A $215M Acquisition with Mike Paladini and Danny Polise of Penelope Bourbon

We talk about Penelope a lot on the show because they are a prime example of how to differentiate yourself in the marketplace from a crowded shelf of bottles. Our first episode with Mike Paladini and Danny Polise was back on epsidoe 382. And now this time we catch up with them again but after they were acquired by MGP for $215M. We talk about life after acquisition and what that means to access to whiskey, the life of the brand, and how their roles have changed from running it all to leaning on a large organiztion with a substantial salesforce. Show Notes: 00:00-The Journey Begins: From Mattresses to Bourbon 04:54-The Rise of Penelope Bourbon: Challenges and Innovations 09:57-Acquisition Insights: Life After MGP 19:52-Product Development: The Art of Blending and Finishing 30:04-Future Aspirations: Growth and New Innovations Support this podcast on Patreon

Whiskey Quickie: Hard Truth Sweet Mash Rye Whiskey Batch #10 Review

Whiskey Quickie: Hard Truth Sweet Mash Rye Whiskey Batch #10 Review

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Hard Truth Sweet Mash Rye Whiskey Batch #10. This non-age stated whiskey is 120.6 proof and $70 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

TWiB: Whiskey Wash Relaunches As Shopping Platform, Woodford Reserve 2024 Master’s Collection, Keeneland and Maker’s Mark Greats of the Gate

TWiB: Whiskey Wash Relaunches As Shopping Platform, Woodford Reserve 2024 Master’s Collection, Keeneland and Maker’s Mark Greats of the Gate

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 18th 2024. The Whiskey Wash relaunches as a price comparison site, Woodford Reserve releases the fall 2024 Master’s Collection release - Madeira Cask Finish, and Keeneland Race Course and Maker’s Mark unveiled Greats of the Gate.Show Notes: The Whiskey Wash relaunches as a price comparison site Log Still Distillery and Against the Grain Brewery return Beetlejuice pop-up Iron City Distilling brand new 3 Chamber Still Milam & Greene Whiskey Barn Owl Single Barrel Bourbon Safai Kentucky Straight Bourbon Brewzle launched Oak Bowery Bourbon Woodford Reserve Madeira Cask Finish Keeneland Race Course and Maker’s Mark unveiled Greats of the Gate Support this podcast on Patreon

484 - Are Celebrity Whiskeys Finally Good? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #99

484 - Are Celebrity Whiskeys Finally Good? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #99

Has celebrity whiskey turned a new page? In this edition of Bourbon Community Roundtable we start examining the world of celebrity once again. Previously disregarded amongst whiskey geeks, we now see the tide shifting where celevrities are beginning to put out some really great stuff. We discuss what makes a brand stick and how celebrities and can't just splash and dash if they want a long standing product. Show Notes: 00:00-Introduction to Bourbon Pursuit and Celebrity Whiskeys 12:15-The Rise of Celebrity Whiskeys 21:44-Challenges and Opportunities in Celebrity Whiskey Brands 28:24-Crafting Celebrity Spirits: The Business Models 31:18-Pricing Strategies: Balancing Quality and Accessibility 35:16-The Importance of Authenticity in Celebrity Brands 39:23-Challenges in the Celebrity Spirits Market 42:44-Consumer Perception: The Connection Between Celebrity and Product 46:37-Building a Portfolio: Beyond One Product 50:33-The Future of Celebrity Brands in Bourbon Support this podcast on Patreon

Whiskey Quickie: Bomberger's Declaration Bourbon (2024) Review

Whiskey Quickie: Bomberger's Declaration Bourbon (2024) Review

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Bomberger's Declaration Bourbon (2024). This non-age stated whiskey is 108 proof and $120 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

TWiB: Bardstown Bourbon Finishes Their Expansion, Barrell Craft Spirits 20-Year Toasted Bourbon, The Return of King of Kentucky for 2024

TWiB: Bardstown Bourbon Finishes Their Expansion, Barrell Craft Spirits 20-Year Toasted Bourbon, The Return of King of Kentucky for 2024

It's This Week in Bourbon for October 11th 2024. Bardstown Bourbon Co finished their latest expansion, Barrell Craft Spirits releases a 20-Year Toasted Single Barrel Bourbon, and the return of King of Knetucky for 2024.Show Notes: Alcohol in Space at Whiskey Thief Bardstown Boutbon Co finished their latest expansion Pappy Palooza Pass or Play by Give270 Elijah Craig Bourbon Old Fashioned Week Penelope Bourbon Founders Reserve List Mint Julep Experiences launched Ireland Whiskey Tours Vendome Copper & Brass Works has opened a new manufacturing facility Castle & Key Distillery Cask Strength Wheated Bourbon Old Potrero’s new California Cellar Series Town Branch Imperium MMXXIV High West Midwinter Night’s Dram Act 12 Barrell Craft Spirits 20-Year Toasted Single Barrel Bourbon Chattanooga Whiskey Bottled in Bond Vintage Series: Fall 2020 Booker’s Batch 2024 03 Master Distillers Batch Brother’s Bond 7-Year Old Bottled In Bond Bardstown Bourbon with Blackberry Farm Brewery Westward Whiskey Milestone Edition No. 2 King of Kentucky 2024 Old Overholt Extra Aged Cask Strength 11YR Hard Truth Distilling Co French Oak Harvest Rye Russell’s Reserve Single Rickhouse 2024 Camp Nelson B @whiskeythiefdistilling @bardstownbourbonco @give270 @elijahcraig @penelopebourbon @castleandkey @barrellbourbon @brothersbond @hardtruthdistilling @russellsreserve Support this podcast on Patreon

483 - What is Premium Bourbon?

483 - What is Premium Bourbon?

The term premium has shifted a lot over the years. In regards of whiskey, just a few short years ago, that term was defined as any bottle over $50. I think we can all agree that $50 seems to an entrypoint into the mid-tier these days. In this episode, Fred, Ryan and myself, we talk about what we believe to be premium with how the market and economic conditions can effect the prices of your bottles. Show Notes: 00:00-The Evolution of Premium Whiskey 05:54-Defining Premium: Price, Age, and Quality 11:59-Market Dynamics: The Role of Distillers and Brands 17:45-Consumer Perception: What Makes Whiskey Premium? 24:05-The Impact of Packaging and Marketing on Premium Status 30:08-Future Trends in the Premium Whiskey Market Support this podcast on Patreon

Whiskey Quickie: Wyoming Whiskey Outryder Review

Whiskey Quickie: Wyoming Whiskey Outryder Review

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Wyoming Whiskey Outryder (2024). This non-age stated whiskey is 100 proof and $85 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

Behind The Pursuit: The Easy Button Pt. 2

Behind The Pursuit: The Easy Button Pt. 2

Subscribe to Behind The Pursuit: From Bourbon to Brand Ryan tackled these questions back on Episode 068, and with the feedback we got from listeners, we wanted to give Kenny an opportunity to chime in as well. Today's question comes from listener Richard C. Richard had a series of questions looming from the recent Bourbon Roundtable Live Q&A during Pursuit Palooza. Kenny & Ryan used to joke that they should have gone the "easy route" to a brand and just bottled MGP instead of doing their own thing. Now, MGP brands are truly everywhere, the bourbon market is undergoing a correction, and bottles are sitting on the shelf for longer. We hit on: How do you feel looking back on your original decision to forge a different path? Did you feel you missed out on something by doing that? Do you feel you are better positioned now for the current market, and for the future, than if you had bottled MGP? Where do you think you'd be currently if you had gone with MGP instead of creating the Pursuit United brand as we know it? What would you do differently if you could do it all over again? What would you tell the 2018 versions of Kenny & Ryan? How do you continue to set the brand up for success with so many other brands continuing to develop around you? and much more. Be sure to visit pursuitspirits.com and click on Visit Us to book a tasting or barrel selection experience. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at podcast@pursuitspirits.com.