In this episode of The Bourbon Road, hosts Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter hit the road and set up their mics at the beautiful RD1 Distillery in Lexington, Kentucky. It’s a return visit for RD1—last featured in Episode 340—but this time, things have evolved. The distillery has expanded its footprint, sharpened its brand, and doubled down on innovation in wood finishing. Joining the conversation are Barry Brinegar and Jared Gollihue, two key figures behind RD1’s growth and vision.

Barry and Jared walk us through RD1’s roots in Lexington’s rich whiskey history, tracing the lineage back to the original Ashland Distillery of 1865 and William Tarr’s acquisition in 1871. The episode goes deep into what makes RD1 unique—its mission to celebrate Lexington’s place in the bourbon world and its bold exploration of finishing techniques. Jared, RD1’s in-house blending and wood science expert, sheds light on the flavor development process and how the team is crafting expressions that push boundaries while staying grounded in quality Kentucky tradition.

Of course, no Bourbon Road episode is complete without tasting—and this one delivers four pours that showcase RD1’s philosophy and style.

🥃 Expressions Tasted on the Show

1. RD1 Sister Cities Limited Release – A Kentucky Straight Whiskey and RD1’s newest limited-time offering. It blends five- and seven-year bourbons with eight-year whiskey, finished with Japanese Mizunara oak and French oak (Friendship barrels). Listeners will hear Jared discuss the layered impact of stone fruit, spice, and even incense-like notes that the Mizunara imparts, creating what he dubs a “Kentucky whisper.”

2. RD1 French Oak Finished Bourbon – This expression returns with depth and elegance. Listeners get insights into how the French oak barrel brings out dark fruit and baking spice, offering a luxurious balance of sweet and tannin.

3. RD1 Amburana Finished Bourbon – With bold spice and unmistakable aroma, this polarizing Brazilian wood is described as a “love-it-or-hate-it” finish. The team explores why Amburana captivates fans of innovative whiskey.

4. RD1 Single Barrel Bourbon – A crowd-pleasing expression known for its warmth and richness. The oak provides structure while the maple adds a dessert-like finish—a cozy dram perfect for fall sipping.

The episode also covers RD1’s place on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, their new visitor experience blending history and hands-on education, and some humorous tales—including a confused visitor looking for “Pickleball Kingdom” in the heart of whiskey country.

With a focus on craftsmanship, heritage, and thoughtful experimentation, RD1 is carving out its niche as a creative powerhouse in Kentucky whiskey. This episode offers a front-row seat to that evolution—complete with deep flavor, vibrant storytelling, and a few good laughs along the way.

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