Most whiskey fans have never experienced a spirit that truly captures the essence of the land—until now. In this episode of the Bourbon Lens, we head to Minnesota to sit down with Michael Swanson, co-founder of Far North Spirits, to explore how agricultural choices, crop genetics, and soil health directly influence whiskey flavor.

Michael shares his fascinating journey from farm kid to pioneering distiller, revealing how a passion for traditional agricultural techniques and groundbreaking scientific research are shaking up the craft distilling industry. Discover how planting specific rye varieties like AC Hazlet can transform a flavor profile in ways big industry can't replicate, and learn how Far North Spirits earned a major innovation award for proving the reality of whiskey terroir.

• 00:00 - Introduction to Far North Spirits and the episode focus
• 02:02 - Michael Swanson's background — from farming to whiskey distillation
• 04:54 - The story of AC Hazlet rye and flavor profile discovery
• 07:18 - Research proving varietal impacts on whiskey flavor
• 08:45 - Interaction with large distillers and grain qualities
• 10:12 - Laboratory findings linking rye variety to flavor compounds
• 12:22 - Soil and environment effects on rye flavor profiles
• 13:33 - Recognition of place-based innovation in whiskey
• 15:01 - Climate effects on aging and angel share dynamics
• 16:27 - Crop rotation, pollinators, and soil health for flavor benefits
• 18:10 - The importance of regional agriculture practices and terroir
• 20:37 - Old techniques and rediscovering traditional farming knowledge
• 22:48 - Collaborative projects with blends and industry partnerships
• 26:36 - Impact of farming scale on grain identity and flavor
• 29:12 - The evolution of American whiskey and sense of place
• 32:21 - Whiskey tasting notes: Hazlet and Rhochner profiles
• 33:55 - Price points and market positioning of estate-grown whiskey
• 36:19 - Future aging plans and bottle releases
• 39:14 - Crafting gin and Demerara-style rum from regional ingredients
• 43:36 - Climate considerations for ultra-aging and long-term storage
• 45:54 - The influence of Minnesota oak and northern terroir
• 50:32 - Whiskey as a celebration of community and tradition
• 54:37 - Final thoughts and how to support Far North Spirits

Whether you are a bourbon enthusiast, a fan of rye whiskey, or curious about the science of soil-to-sip spirits, this episode will completely change the way you think about the landscape captured in your bottle.

🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community.

📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens

🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com

👕 Merch: https://bourbon-lens-shop.printify.me/products

💬 Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSU

#BourbonLens #FarNorthSpirits #RyeWhiskey #WhiskeyTerroir #FarmToGlass #CraftDistilling #WhiskeyScience #MichaelSwanson #EstateWhiskey

In this episode of Five Minute Fridays, we explore an incredible milestone in the craft spirits movement: the triumphant resurgence of aged craft whiskeys. Leading the charge is Northern Kentucky’s own New Riff Distilling with their highly anticipated, limited-edition 10-Year-Old High Note Bourbon and Rye releases. We dive deep into the production details, mash bills, and proof strengths, alongside an honest review of the sensory tasting experiences.

For years, major legacy distilleries dominated the double-digit age statement landscape. However, craft powerhouses like New Riff, Starlight, and Peerless are proving that patience pays off in the craft whiskey world. As these distilleries cross the 10-year mark, they are unleashing rich, deep flavor profiles that rival any bottle on the shelf.

New Riff's latest decade-old duo showcases the distillery’s flagship recipes, allowed to mature to peak complexity:

• 10-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon: Clocking in at 116.9 proof, this expression features a high-rye mash bill of 65% corn, 30% rye, and 5% malted barley.
• 10-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Rye: This 118-proof powerhouse utilizes a traditional 95% rye and 5% malted rye mash bill.

Inspired by John from the Embellished Podcast, this review emphasizes the crucial value of revisiting high-integrity whiskey over multiple days to truly unlock its full, evolving complexity.

• Nose: Rich aroma highlighted by deep tobacco, plum, and a bright layer of citrus rind.
• Palate: A complex interplay of mature oak tannins, dark cherry, and honeyed peach.
• Finish: Long, spicy, and satisfyingly warm with a heavy rye-driven influence.

• Nose: Expressive and punchy with dominant spearmint, vanilla, and sweet honey.
• Palate: A beautifully juicy, well-rounded mouthfeel layered with sweet cinnamon sugar, lemon zest, and hints of ripe peach.
• Finish: Distinctly spiced and balanced. While our host personally leans toward the bourbon, both bottles are undeniable contenders for whiskey of the year.

These high-integrity, barrel-proof, and non-chill-filtered whiskeys are limited-run creations. If you are a resident of or visitor to Northern Kentucky, do not miss your chance to head to the distillery, secure these rare bottles, and taste history in the making.

• Distillery Info: https://newriffwhiskeyclub.com/

🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. Keep this at the bottom

📸 Follow on Instagram:  ⁨@bourbonlens⁩  

🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com

Merch: https://bourbon-lens-shop.printify.me/products

Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSU 

Step into the fascinating world of Japanese spirits as we explore the artistry, heritage, and meticulous culture behind Japanese whisky. In this episode of Bourbon Lens, we sit down with House of Suntory's Advocacy Manager, James Bowker, to celebrate Toki Highball Week and deconstruct over a century of liquid craftsmanship.

We track the incredible evolution of Japanese whisky, starting from Shinjiro Torii and the founding of the legendary Yamazaki Distillery. Discover how Japan's early isolation and cultural philosophies like kaizen (continuous improvement) and ichigo-ichie (treasuring the unrepeatable moment) shaped a production style distinctly different from Scotch and American whiskey.

We break down the new strict labeling standards and regulations implemented to combat "fake" Japanese whiskies, giving you the knowledge to shop authentically. Plus, James guides us through a side-by-side tasting of the approachable Suntory Toki Classic versus the rich, smoky Toki Black expression. Finally, you'll learn the master techniques required to craft the perfect Japanese Highball at home, from precise water-to-whisky proportions to ice manipulation. Stream now and elevate your highball game!

• 00:05 — Welcome and Overview of the Episode
• 01:06 — The History of Japanese Whisky and Cultural Background
• 02:32 — Shinjiro Torii and the Origins of House of Suntory
• 03:57 — Craftsmanship and Blending Techniques in Japanese Whisky
• 05:35 — Artistic and Cultural Influences: Hibiki, Hakushu, and Yamazaki
• 08:17 — Suntory's Product Tiers and Core Portfolio Profiles
• 10:42 — Fighting Counterfeits: New Japanese Whisky Standards and Certifications
• 17:48 — Celebrating Toki Highball Week & the Ichigo-Ichie Philosophy
• 19:17 — Masterclass: How to Craft an Authentic Japanese Highball at Home
• 26:13 — Tasting & Comparison: Toki Classic vs. Toki Black Smoky Expression
• 36:14 — Summer Culinary Pairings and Creative Whisky Cocktail Innovations

• The House of Suntory: Official Website
• Explore the Lineup: Yamazaki, Hakushu, Hibiki, & Chita Distillery
• Industry Insights: Official JSLMA Japanese Whisky Standards
• Support the Show: Bourbon Lens Patreon / Bourbon Lens
• Seven Cocktails & Bourbon
• Suntory 100 Videos

🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community.

📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens

🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com

👕 Grab Our Gear: https://bourbon-lens-shop.printify.me/products

Discover the unique American spirit of Chicken Cock’s Old Glory, a special, highly innovative whiskey crafted in celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary. In this episode of Bourbon Lens, we explore the historic significance, stunning patriotic artwork, and the remarkable liquid collaboration behind this iconic bottle.

We break down the innovative liquid profile: a 100-proof marriage of premium Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey and Laird's Apple Brandy. You will get our full, unfiltered personal impressions and detailed tasting notes—from the initial baking spice and citrus zest on the nose to the complex stewed fruit and balanced vanilla notes on the palate.

Whether you are a hardcore fan of traditional rye whiskey, an admirer of historic apple brandy traditions, or a collector looking for an affordable way to commemorate American distilling heritage, this heritage brand mashup is a must-try bottle that absolutely delivers on value. Dive in with us as we experience a true taste of Americana!

• 00:00 - Introduction to Chicken Cock's Old Glory Whiskey & America's 250th
• 00:28 - Liquid Breakdown: Kentucky Rye Meets Laird's Apple Brandy (100 Proof)
• 01:58 - Historical Context: Two Heritage Spirits Brands Aligning
• 02:22 - Official Tasting Notes: Nose, Palate, & Flavor Profile Insights
• 03:13 - Personal Impressions & Cultural Significance for American Distillers
• 03:42 - Community Involvement, Swag, Merchandise, & Patreon Perks

• Featured Whiskey: Chicken Cock Old Glory Whiskey
• Support the Show: Bourbon Lens Patreon
• Want Our Merch: Buy Now

🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community.

📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens

🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com

💬 Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSU

#BourbonLens #ChickenCock #OldGloryWhiskey #LairdsApple Brandy #RyeWhiskey #AmericanDistilling #WhiskeyReview #BourbonLensNews

Chicken Cock Old Glory review, Kentucky straight rye whiskey, Laird's apple brandy blend, America 250th anniversary bottle, historic American spirits, apple brandy rye blend, 100 proof rye whiskey, affordable allocated whiskey, premium spirits collaboration, automated tasting notes, Bourbon Lens, Bourbon Lens News

Most bourbon brands focus solely on production volume—but Rabbit Hole Distillery proves there is a much smarter way to stand out in a crowded market. On this episode of Bourbon Lens, host Jake Lewellen sits down with the visionary founder of Rabbit Hole, Kaveh Zemanian, to explore how bold architectural design, regional storytelling, and uncompromised craftsmanship are actively reshaping the future of American whiskey.

As the spirits industry faces a massive cyclical shift, Kaveh shares an expert masterclass on brand resilience. We go behind the scenes of Rabbit Hole’s small-batch and experimental spirit programs, unpacking everything from innovative wood finishes to the strategic rise of flavored whiskeys designed to invite a new wave of consumers into the category. Kaveh breaks down the complex market dynamics of 2026—including the strategic choices behind their historic Mary Dowling brand extension, the reality of a global whiskey oversupply, and the massive ongoing transformation of alcohol distribution via e-commerce and Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) channels.

Whether you are an aspiring spirits entrepreneur, a marketing strategist, or a whiskey connoisseur, this episode delivers actionable insights on carving your own lane, leveraging experiential tourism in Louisville, and building an authentic, future-proof whiskey brand.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 | Introduction & Episode Overview
• 01:03 | The Past 20 Years: Macro Landscape of the American Bourbon Industry
• 02:46 | Surviving the Cycle: Managing Downturns and Building Brand Resilience
• 03:39 | Geographics of Spirit Growth: Regional Identity vs. National Expansion
• 05:07 | Destination Distilling: The Architectural Distillery as a Visitor Magnet
• 06:22 | Beyond the Standard Barrel: Crafting Small-Format & Experimental Whiskeys
• 07:36 | Product Formatting: Innovating Expression Profiles for Consumer Appeal
• 09:33 | Expanding the Tent: Utilizing Flavored Whiskeys to Attract New Drinkers
• 10:55 | Liquid Gifting: Consumer Trends in Premium Bottle Gifting
• 12:33 | The Legend of Mary Dowling: Reviving a Unique Historical Story
• 14:05 | Timeline of a Brand: Launch Strategies and Long-Term Development
• 16:02 | Deep Dive: The Journey and Creative Process Behind Offshoot Expressions
• 17:38 | Flavor Chemistry: Collaborative Innovations with Premier Flavor Houses
• 18:48 | Logistics of Liquid: Balancing Sourcing, Blending, and Custom Production
• 20:11 | The Recovery Strategy: Rebuilding a Premium Brand in Today’s Economic Climate
• 21:30 | The Three-Tier Challenge: Evolving Distribution Landscapes and Digital Shifts
• 24:25 | The Aged Whiskey Surplus: Market Impacts and Consumer Opportunities
• 25:53 | Market Swings: How Macro Changes Impact Distilling Communities
• 27:17 | Bourbon Tourism: Louisville’s Role in Community and Economic Revitalization
• 29:11 | Honoring the Roots: Historical Distilling Support for Local Agricultural Communities
• 30:25 | The Next Chapter: Authenticity, Experiential Marketing, and the Future of Whiskey Tourism

🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community.

📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens

🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSU

Can a celebrity-backed whiskey brand actually change the way American spirits are made? In this episode of Bourbon Lens (383), Jake Lewellen sits down with the ultimate industry outsider turned mad scientist: Ari Sussman, the whiskey maker behind country star Eric Church’s Whiskey Jypsi.

We take a deep dive into their most ambitious and historically significant release yet: Legacy Batch 003: "The Declaration." Conceived as a liquid tribute to America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, this bottle completely reimagines Colonial-era Maryland-style rye. Ari breaks down the insane logistics behind this 60/30/10 cross-category blend, which features 8-to-12-year-old Indiana rye finished in apple brandy casks sourced directly from George Washington's Mount Vernon Distillery, 25-year-old Canadian corn whiskey, and a touch of Virginia single malt. From the pioneering use of agricultural gene editing (like the "Lavender Haze" grain) to the hidden Easter egg behind its 115.74 proof statement, this episode proves why Whiskey Jypsi is leaving standard sourced bourbon behind to stage an American whiskey revolution.

In this episode, we explore:

• The Outsider Ethos: How Ari's background in French wine harvests shapes his approach to "noble grains."
• Deconstructing "The Declaration": Breaking down the components of an ultra-complex $200 blend.
• The Mount Vernon Connection: Finishing MGP 95/5 rye in actual historic apple brandy barrels.
• Punk-Rock Rye: Why Ari believes rye—not bourbon—is the true whiskey of revolutionaries.
• Agricultural Innovation: Looking at the future of heirloom grains and gene-edited varietals.
• Hidden in the Proof: The incredible historical meaning behind the 115.74 bottling strength.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 | Introduction: Catching Up with Whiskey Maker Ari Sussman
• 02:15 | The Jypsi Lineup: Legacy, Explorer, and Tribute Series
• 07:45 | Celebrity Brands Done Right: Eric Church and Authentic Leadership
• 10:30 | Noble Grains: Heirloom Varietals and Agricultural Philosophy
• 15:00 | The Cutting Edge: Can Gene Editing Revolutionize Whiskey Grains?
• 20:45 | Wood & Stave Innovation: Designing Cross-Category Complexity
• 25:30 | Reclaiming the Past: The Rise and Fall of Maryland-Style Rye
• 30:20 | Tasting The Declaration: Blending Indiana, Canada, and Virginia
• 34:20 | Bottle Storytelling: The Hidden History in the 115.74 Proof Statement
• 38:00 | Scarcity & Allocation: Where to Find Legacy Batch 003
• 42:00 | Final Thoughts: Shaking Up the American Blended Whiskey Category

🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. 📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens 🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSU

#BourbonLens #WhiskeyJypsi #AriSussman #EricChurch #TheDeclaration #MarylandRye #WhiskeyReview #BlendedWhiskey #MountVernonDistillery #HeirloomGrains #MGP #AmericanWhiskey

Whiskey Jypsi Legacy Batch 003, Ari Sussman Whiskey Maker, The Declaration Whiskey Review, Eric Church Whiskey Brand, Maryland Style Rye, Mount Vernon Apple Brandy Barrels, Blended Whiskey Categories, Heirloom Grains in Spirits, 115.74 Proof Meaning, Bourbon Lens,

In the latest episode of Thursday Thoughts:

Discover why honey-finished bourbons are the hottest trend in whiskey. We dive deep into the profiles of Green River Honey ($24.99), Blue Note Honey Cask (Cask Strength), and Southern Stars (6-Year Aged) to find the best balance of sweetness and proof. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing summer highball base or a complex dessert pour, we break down the proof, price, and palate of each.

Key Highlights:

• Green River: The best value honey bourbon at $24.99.
• Blue Note: High-proof intensity meets clover honey sweetness.
• Southern Stars: Older, refined bourbon with North Carolina honey roots.

Chapters: 00:00 - Are Honey Finishes Overrated? 00:55 - Green River Honey: Price & Process 02:26 - The Science of Honey Casks 06:04 - Flavor Notes: Mint, Fruit, & Sugar 10:25 - Blue Note Cask Strength Review 14:02 - How to make the perfect Honey Gold Rush

🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. Keep this at the bottom 📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens

🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSU

#Bourbon #WhiskeyReview #HoneyFinishedBourbon #GreenRiverBourbon #BlueNoteWhiskey #WhiskeyCocktails #BourbonLens #CraftSpirits

Keywords: honey finished bourbon review, best honey whiskey 2026, Green River Honey Bourbon price, Blue Note Honey Cask strength, Southern Stars bourbon review, honey cask whiskey, Gold Rush cocktail recipe, bourbon tasting notes.

A decade in the making. Today on Bourbon Lens, we sit down with John Waddell, Master Taster at Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co., to discuss the most significant release in the distillery's modern history: The Henry Kraver Reserve 10-Year Bourbon.

Since reviving the Peerless legacy in 2013, the Taylor family has vowed to never source a drop of whiskey. This 10-year release is the liquid proof of that patience. John walks us through the "Sweet Mash" process that defines the Peerless profile and explains why crafting a 10-year expression requires a completely different approach to batching and quality control. From the "wild" palate of burnt brownies and mocha to the nostalgic tobacco-heavy nose, we break down why this bottle is already being called a contender for Bourbon of the Year.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The 10-Year Evolution: The significance of Peerless’s first official age-statement release.
• Sweet Mash Mastery: How fresh mash (versus sour mash) creates a cleaner, more vibrant 117.6 proof spirit.
• The Art of the Batch: John Waddell shares the challenges of pairing prominent 10-year-old barrels.
• History Reborn: Paying homage to founder Henry Kraver and the DSP-KY-50 heritage.
• The "Cult" of Peerless: Why the distillery’s focus on "quality over quantity" has built one of the most loyal followings in the industry.
• The Visitor Experience: Why their downtown Louisville distillery is a must-visit on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

Chapters

• Introduction and Welcome
• Peerless Distillery Overview
• 10-Year Bourbon Release
• Crafting and Tasting Process
• Challenges and Achievements
• Future Plans and Innovations
• Closing Remarks

🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. 📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens 🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSU

#BourbonLens #KentuckyPeerless #PeerlessBourbon #HenryKraver #10YearBourbon #SweetMash #JohnWaddell #BourbonReview #LouisvilleBourbon #WhiskeyCollector #DSPKY50

Kentucky Peerless 10 Year Bourbon, Henry Kraver Old Reserve Review, John Waddell Master Taster, Sweet Mash Bourbon, Peerless Distillery Louisville, 10 Year Age Statement Whiskey, Peerless 117.6 Proof, Bourbon of the Year 2026, Kentucky Bourbon Trail, Bourbon Lens Podcast

Welcome to Five Minute Friday's, our new monthly spotlight where we step outside the Bluegrass State to explore the world of spirits. Today, Jake takes a deep dive into two highly anticipated releases from one of the most iconic names in Scotch: The Dalmore.

The Dalmore is famous for its luxury status, but for the serious whiskey enthusiast, the specs haven't always hit the mark—until now.

We are reviewing the Select Editions 2007 (18 Year) and 2010 (15 Year). These aren't your standard The Dalmore bottles; they are non-chill filtered, natural color, and bottled at a higher proof than the core range.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The "Un-Dalmore" Specs: Why the move to 46%+ ABV and non-chill filtration is a game-changer for the brand’s credibility.
• The Sherry Influence: Exploring the rare Apóstoles, Matusalem, and Amoroso casks from the legendary González Byass bodega.
• Tasting the 2007 (18 Year): A 93.4-proof "Pastry King" full of maple syrup and chocolate notes.
• Tasting the 2010 (15 Year): The "Bourbon Bridge"—why this 98.2-proof expression is the one for our core audience.
• The Value Debate: With price tags of $250 and $550, are these bottles a "must-buy" or just "expensive marketing"?

Chapters:

| Introduction to Five Minute Friday's: Crossing the Atlantic for The Dalmore.

| Select Editions Breakdown: What makes the 2007 and 2010 different from the 12 or 15 year.

| Tasting Notes & Palate Assessment: Bourbon-friendly Scotch?

| The Assessment of Value: We weigh the MSRP against the experience.

We want to hear from you: Does a higher proof and "natural" status make you more likely to pull the trigger on a The Dalmore? Let’s talk about it in the comments.

🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community.

📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens

🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com

Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSU

#BourbonLens #WhiskyLens #TheDalmore #ScotchReview #SingleMalt #WhiskyCollector #DalmoreSelectEdition #SherryCask #LuxuryWhisky #BourbonDrinkers

Welcome to the debut of Whisk(e)y Lens, a new monthly spotlight where we step outside the Bluegrass State to take a global view of the spirits world. In this inaugural episode, host Jake takes a deep dive into the rugged landscapes and storied distilleries of Scotland.

If you’ve ever felt intimidated by the "smoke" or confused by the regions, this episode is your roadmap. We aren’t just talking about Scotch; we are exploring the deep-rooted connection between the Scotch industry and American Bourbon. From the influence of ex-bourbon casks to the science behind the "Peat Myth," we are breaking down everything you need to know to transition from the Rickhouse to the Highlands.

In this episode, we explore:

• The "Whiskey vs. Whisky" Debate: Understanding the legal and cultural differences between America’s native spirit and Scotland’s national treasure.
• The Bourbon Connection: Why over 90% of Scotch wouldn’t exist without the American Bourbon industry.
• The Five Regions of Scotch: A flavor-first breakdown of Speyside, The Highlands, Islay, The Lowlands, and Campbeltown.
• Debunking the Peat Myth: Why "smoky" doesn't mean "better" and how to find the right entry point for a bourbon palate.
• Jake’s Recommendations: Which bottles should be on your shelf if you’re ready to expand your lens.

Whether you’re a purist or a curious newcomer, grab a dram and join us as we broaden the horizon of what whiskey can be.

Chapters:

• Introduction to Whisk(e)y Lens: A Global Perspective
• Scotch vs. Bourbon: Grain, Wood, and Law
• The Five Regions: A Flavor Roadmap
• The Bourbon Cask Influence: A Symbiotic Relationship
• Misconceptions, Peat, and Expert Recommendations

🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. 📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens 🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSU