In Episode 4 of Chasing the Unicorn: Your Quest for the Perfect Pour, we're asking the question every bourbon lover needs to consider: Are you truly experiencing the spirit in your glass, or are you being swayed by labels, brands, and preconceived notions? This week, we're diving headfirst into the fascinating and incredibly valuable world of blind bourbon tastings!

Join host John Schuster as we demystify the process of blind tasting and reveal why it's the ultimate tool for refining your palate and discovering your true bourbon preferences. We'll show you how to strip away the biases, focus solely on your senses, and unlock a deeper level of appreciation for bourbon's complexities.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• The surprising power of blind tasting to challenge your assumptions about bourbon.
• Practical techniques for setting up your own blind tastings at home.
• Tips to improve your sensory focus and identify key flavor elements.
• Why Four Roses Small Batch is the perfect bourbon to hone your blind tasting skills.
• How blind tasting can transform your bourbon journey from casual enjoyment to connoisseurship.

Ready to put your palate to the test and experience bourbon in a whole new way? Click play and join the blind tasting showdown! Don't forget to share your own tasting notes and experiences with us on social media using #ChasingTheUnicorn!

Chasing the Unicorn: Your Quest for the Perfect Pour!

© 2024 Chasing the Unicorn Podcast.
#DrunkenUnicorn #Chasingtheunicornpodcast; #bourbon; #whiskey; #podcast

Think you know bourbon? Think again! On this episode of Chasing the Unicorn, we're diving deep into the world of bourbon myths and misconceptions, shattering those age-old beliefs that might be holding you back from your perfect pour. 

Join your host, John Schuster, as he debunks common myths like:

The "Kentucky Only" fallacy: Discover amazing bourbons from craft distilleries across the US, proving great whiskey isn't bound by geography.

The "Older is Always Better" myth: We'll explore why age isn't everything and how younger bourbons can pack just as much flavor.

The "Single Barrel Superiority" misconception: Uncover the truth about single barrel vs. small batch bourbons and why both have their own unique appeal.

Plus, we'll tackle myths about proof, filtration, and even how to drink your bourbon. Get ready to challenge your assumptions and discover the real story behind America's native spirit.

This is a bourbon rebellion! Tune in and learn how to forge your own path in the world of whiskey.

Don't forget to join the conversation on social media using #ChasingTheUnicorn!

Subscribe now and never miss an episode! Find us on Spotify, iHeartRadio, YouTube, and Amazon Music.

Cheers! 🍻

Chasing the Unicorn: Your Quest for the Perfect Pour!

© 2024 Chasing the Unicorn Podcast.
#DrunkenUnicorn #Chasingtheunicornpodcast; #bourbon; #whiskey; #podcast

Ever wonder why some bourbons have a distinct smoothness while others pack a punch? The secret ingredient might surprise you: water! In this episode of Chasing the Unicorn, we explore the critical role of water in bourbon production. We break down how different water sources – limestone springs, granite springs, and surface water – contribute to a bourbon's unique flavor profile.

We also do a deep dive into Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Tennessee Whiskey and its connection to the brand's iconic cave spring water. Plus, we discuss the impact of social media on bourbon culture, offering tips for navigating the digital landscape responsibly. Finally, we take a trip back in time to explore the history of Jack Daniel's and the significance of water in their whiskey production.

Tune in to learn more about this often-overlooked ingredient and gain a new appreciation for your favorite pour!

Links to Resources:

• Maker's Mark: https://www.makersmark.com/
• Four Roses: https://fourrosesbourbon.com/
• Jack Daniel's: https://www.jackdaniels.com/en-us
• Kentucky Geological Survey: Water Quality and Kentucky Bourbon: https://www.uky.edu/KGS/water/library/gwatlas/Bourbon/Waterquality.htm
• Unleashing the Secret: How Water Source impacts Bourbon Flavor: https://pourmore.com/blogs/bourbon/unleashing-the-secret-how-water-source-impacts-bourbon-flavor
• The Importance of Water in Whiskey Production: https://thewhiskeyreserve.com/blogs/the-whiskey-reserve-blog/the-importance-of-water-in-whiskey-production

Chasing the Unicorn: Your Quest for the Perfect Pour!

© 2024 Chasing the Unicorn Podcast.
#DrunkenUnicorn #Chasingtheunicornpodcast; #bourbon; #whiskey; #podcast

Embark on a journey through the world of bourbon in this episode of Chasing the Unicorn! We delve into the art of planning a bourbon-focused trip, offering insider tips on crafting itineraries, booking distillery tours, and finding hidden gems along the way. Discover the diverse range of experiences available at distilleries, from classic tours to exclusive tastings and cocktail classes. We also explore the fascinating history of bourbon, including the impact of Prohibition and the rise of regulation. Our "Bourbon Across America" segment spotlights the iconic Buffalo Trace Distillery, and our "Perfect Pour" features Colonel E.H. Taylor Single Barrel, a bourbon that embodies tradition and craftsmanship. Tune in and get inspired to plan your own whiskey wanderlust adventure!

Chasing the Unicorn: Your Quest for the Perfect Pour!

© 2024 Chasing the Unicorn Podcast.
#DrunkenUnicorn #Chasingtheunicornpodcast; #bourbon; #whiskey; #podcast

Unwrap a special Christmas gift from Chasing the Unicorn! This episode explores the vibrant world of craft distilleries, those smaller, independent operations that are reshaping the bourbon landscape. #craftdistillery #bourbon

We'll delve into what defines a "craft" distillery, the unique challenges they face, and the exciting innovations they bring to the table. Discover how these passionate distillers are pushing boundaries, experimenting with new techniques, and crafting some of the most exciting bourbons on the market. #innovation #bourbonmaking

Plus, we'll pour a glass of Larceny Barrel Proof C924, a bourbon that embodies the craft spirit, and discuss the upcoming launch of Chasing the Unicorn Season 1! #LarcenyBourbon #HeavenHill

Join us for a festive exploration of the craft distillery movement and raise a glass to the passionate individuals who are redefining the bourbon world. #bourbonlover #whiskeylover

Show Notes:

• What is a Craft Distillery? We explore the key characteristics of craft distilleries and why they're making such a big impact on the bourbon industry. #craftdistilling
• Challenges and Triumphs: Discover the hurdles that craft distillers face and how they overcome them to create exceptional whiskeys. #distillerylife
• Big Distilleries Go Craft: Learn why even large distilleries are embracing the craft movement and creating smaller, craft-focused brands. #craftbrands
• Featured Craft Distilleries: We highlight some standout craft distilleries: 
• Rabbit Hole Distillery: Known for their unique mash bills and innovative approaches to aging. https://www.rabbitholedistillery.com/ #RabbitHole
• Peerless Distilling Co.: Focusing on small-batch, handcrafted whiskeys with an emphasis on quality ingredients. [invalid URL removed] #Peerless
• New Riff Distilling: Committed to transparency and using only non-GMO grains. https://newriffdistilling.com/ #NewRiff
• Wilderness Trail Distillery: Pushing the boundaries of fermentation with their unique sweet mash process. https://www.wildernesstraildistillery.com/  #WildernessTrail
• Large Distilleries with Craft Brands: 
• Jim Beam: https://www.jimbeam.com/ #JimBeam (includes Knob Creek, Booker's, Basil Hayden's)
• Wild Turkey:  https://wildturkeybourbon.com/ #WildTurkey
• Buffalo Trace:  https://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/ #BuffaloTrace
• Heaven Hill:  https://heavenhilldistillery.com/ #HeavenHill
• Larceny Barrel Proof C924: Uncover the fascinating backstory and savor the tasting notes of this exceptional wheated bourbon. https://www.larcenybourbon.com/ #LarcenyBourbon #wheatedbourbon
• Chasing the Unicorn Season 1: Get a sneak peek at the exciting topics we'll be exploring in the upcoming season, launching January 1st! #newseason #podcast

Chasing the Unicorn: Your Quest for the Perfect Pour!

© 2024 Chasing the Unicorn Podcast.
#DrunkenUnicorn #Chasingtheunicornpodcast; #bourbon; #whiskey; #podcast

Ever wondered how to truly taste bourbon, not just drink it?  This episode of Chasing the Unicorn dives deep into the art of bourbon tasting, giving you the tools to unlock a whole new world of flavor. #bourbontasting #whiskeytasting

Join host John Schuster as he guides you through the essential 5 S's of bourbon tasting – Swirl, See, Smell (The Nose), Sip (The Palate), and Savor (The Finish).  Learn practical tips to enhance your sensory experience, build your own flavor library, and identify those subtle nuances that make each bourbon unique. #5Ss #flavorprofile

We'll explore how to analyze the color and viscosity of your bourbon, master the art of nosing to detect intricate aromas, and savor the finish to appreciate the full complexity of your pour. #bourbonreview #tastingnotes

Plus, we'll uncover the fascinating history and exquisite flavor profile of Mary Dowling Straight Winter Wheat Bourbon, a tribute to a pioneering woman in the bourbon industry. #MaryDowling #RabbitHoleDistillery

Whether you're a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or just starting your whiskey journey, this episode is your guide to tasting like a pro. #bourbonlover #whiskeylover

Show Notes:

Still Austin Tanager Release: Texas bourbon gets a French twist! Still Austin Whiskey Co. has just released Tanager, a unique blend featuring red, white, and blue corn. https://bottleraiders.com/whiskey/bourbon/still-austin-tanager-release/ #TexasBourbon #FrenchInfluence

Bourbon and Beyond Festival: Bourbon and Beyond in Louisville has broken attendance records, drawing over 210,000 people in 2024. https://www.msn.com/en-us/music/news/largest-music-festival-in-kentucky-named-best-festival-of-2024/ar-AA1s5G0V #BourbonAndBeyond #MusicFestival

New Riff Distilling Sustainability: If you're planning a trip on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, make sure to add New Riff Distilling to your itinerary. They're committed to sustainable practices. https://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/news/2024/12/07/new-riff-kentucky-bourbon-trail-boom-visitors-tour.html #SustainableDistilling #KentuckyBourbonTrail

Penelope Bourbon Havana Release: Penelope Bourbon has just dropped Havana, a rum barrel-finished bourbon also finished in maple syrup casks. https://www.fredminnick.com/2024/12/10/penelope-bourbon-releases-rum-barrel-finished-havana/ #PenelopeBourbon #RumBarrelFinish

Beam Private Barrel Club: Beam Suntory has just launched the Beam Private Barrel Club, giving members the chance to purchase and personalize their own single barrel of Knob Creek bourbon or rye. https://www.fredminnick.com/2024/12/10/beam-announces-launch-of-private-barrel-club/ #BeamSuntory #PrivateBarrel

Chasing the Unicorn: Your Quest for the Perfect Pour!

© 2024 Chasing the Unicorn Podcast.
#DrunkenUnicorn #Chasingtheunicornpodcast; #bourbon; #whiskey; #podcast

Join John Schuster for another exciting episode of Chasing the Unicorn: Your Quest for the Perfect Pour! In "Beyond the Basics," we delve into the often-misunderstood world of bourbon proof and age statements. Discover how these factors influence a bourbon's flavor profile and your overall enjoyment.

We'll kick things off with the latest Bourbon Buzz, featuring news from Four Roses, Booker's, and Old Forester, plus a roundup of the best new whiskeys for December.

Then, we'll gather 'Round the Barrel for community updates, including a Pappy Van Winkle lottery, cocktail recommendations, and a discussion about the controversial "whiskey fungus" impacting a Vermont distillery.

In Drunken Unicorn Uncorked, we'll unravel the mysteries of proof and age, exploring their impact on bourbon and rye. Learn how these elements interact to create a unique flavor experience.

Finally, in The Perfect Pour, we'll savor Little Book "The Infinite," a limited-edition bourbon that celebrates the legacy of the Beam family distillers. 1    

 1.  Little Book "The Infinite" Edition 1 Straight Bourbon - Gary's Liquors 
garysliquors.com

Tune in to refine your bourbon knowledge and join the chase for the perfect pour! 🥃

Show Notes:

• WhistlePig Whiskey Fungus: https://www.wcax.com/2024/12/04/vermont-distiller-faces-questions-over-new-york-storage-facility/
• Kroger Pappy Van Winkle Lottery: https://www.wlwt.com/article/kroger-pappy-van-winkle-random-drawing-saturday/63109147
• Four Roses New Recipes: https://www.mensjournal.com/food-drink/four-roses-new-bourbon-recipes-2025
• Maker's Mark Winter Wheat Wonderland: https://www.fredminnick.com/2024/12/05/makers-mark-to-host-holiday-attraction-in-new-york-city/
• Booker's "The Reserves" Review: https://www.breakingbourbon.com/review/bookers-the-reserves-batch-2024
• Knob Creek Old Fashioned: https://www.knobcreek.com/our-cocktails/classic-old-fashioned
• Old Forester Repeal Day Bourbon: https://www.fredminnick.com/2024/12/05/old-forester-celebrates-repeal-day-with-new-117-series-expression/
• Best New Whiskeys for December: https://www.insidehook.com/whiskey/best-new-whiskeys-december-2024
• St. Augustine Distillery Award: https://www.staugustine.com/story/lifestyle/food/2024/12/03/st-augustine-distillery-wins-distillery-of-year-award/76654273007/
• Stagg Jr. Tasting Event: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stagg-bourbon-tasting-march-tickets-1105035062619
• Abraham Bowman Oak Series Review: https://vinepair.com/review/abraham-bowman-oak-series-american-oak/

Chasing the Unicorn: Your Quest for the Perfect Pour!

© 2024 Chasing the Unicorn Podcast.
#DrunkenUnicorn #Chasingtheunicornpodcast; #bourbon; #whiskey; #podcast

Welcome back to Chasing the Unicorn: Your Quest for the Perfect Pour!

In "Prologue: Episode 3 - The Angel's Share and Other Aging Mysteries," we delve into the fascinating world of bourbon aging. Join your host, John Schuster, as he explores:

• The role of the "angel's share" in flavor concentration
• The impact of warehouse conditions on bourbon maturation
• Unique aging techniques like barrel finishing
• The latest bourbon news and events
• A Perfect Pour of E.H. Taylor, Jr. Small Batch

Subscribe now and join the chase for the perfect bourbon! #bourbon #whiskey #aging #podcast #chasingtheunicornpodcast #drunkenunicorn

Chasing the Unicorn: Your Quest for the Perfect Pour!

© 2024 Chasing the Unicorn Podcast.
#DrunkenUnicorn #Chasingtheunicornpodcast; #bourbon; #whiskey; #podcast

Chasing the Unicorn: ProEP2 - From Field to Flask

Join us for a Thanksgiving Eve journey into the heart of bourbon making! 🥃

In this episode of Chasing the Unicorn, we're uncorking the secrets behind how that golden liquid gets from the field to your flask. We'll explore every step of the bourbon-making process, from milling the grains to aging in oak barrels.

Plus:

Bourbon Buzz: Get the latest news, including exciting new releases from Pendleton Whisky and Michter's, charitable events at Green River Distillery, and a special anniversary beer from Lakewood Brewing Company.
Around the Barrel: We'll share upcoming bourbon events happening around the country, just in time for the holidays.
The Perfect Pour: John shares his experience with a unique "spiral cut" barrel-finished bourbon from Ben Holladay Distillery.
Drunken Unicorn Uncorked: Dive deep into the fascinating world of bourbon production, from mashing and fermentation to distillation and aging.
Last Call: A final thought to savor as we raise a glass to the craftsmanship and tradition behind every bottle of bourbon.
It's a Thanksgiving Eve episode filled with bourbon knowledge, stories, and community spirit. So grab your favorite glass and join the chase!

#bourbon #whiskey #podcast #distillery #tasting #newrelease #charity #community #education #drink #thanksgiving

Chasing the Unicorn: Your Quest for the Perfect Pour!

© 2024 Chasing the Unicorn Podcast.
#DrunkenUnicorn #Chasingtheunicornpodcast; #bourbon; #whiskey; #podcast

Chasing the Unicorn: Prologue Episode 1 - "The Chase Begins!"

Welcome to the very first episode of our pre-launch series, "Chasing the Unicorn: Your Quest for the Perfect Pour!"

In this prologue episode, we're giving you a taste of what's to come when we officially launch in January.  Join your host, John Schuster, on a journey into the world of bourbon, where we'll explore everything from the latest distillery news to the art of finding your perfect pour.

This week, we're kicking things off with a trip to the Widow Jane Distillery in Brooklyn, where we'll uncover the secrets behind their unique small-batch bourbons. We'll also discuss some timely news from the bourbon world.

Get ready for an unforgettable bourbon experience. The chase begins now!

In this episode, you'll discover:

The unique story behind Widow Jane Distillery and their exceptional bourbons.
Exciting news from the bourbon world, including new releases and upcoming events.
Insights into the art of bourbon and finding your perfect pour.
A glimpse into the segments and features you can expect in future episodes.

Subscribe now and join the quest for the perfect pour!

Chasing the Unicorn: Your Quest for the Perfect Pour!

© 2024 Chasing the Unicorn Podcast.
#DrunkenUnicorn #Chasingtheunicornpodcast; #bourbon; #whiskey; #podcast