In this exclusive interview, Steve Ison, founder of Rebecca Creek Distillery, shares the inspiring story behind building a craft legacy right here in Texas with  @stevenpaulmatsumoto . You’ll hear how his passion led to the creation of standout brands like Enchanted Rock Vodka, Texas Ranger Whiskey, and Rebecca Creek Whiskey—and what it takes to bring bold new spirits to life.

If you’re a fan of great vodka or whiskey—or just love a good entrepreneurial story—this behind‑the‑scenes conversation will give you a fresh perspective on what makes these bottles special.

👉 Visit a Juno’s Liquor near you and experience these Texas favorites for yourself.
👉 Subscribe to our channel for more inspiring founder stories, product spotlights, and insider tips from the world of spirits.

#RebeccaCreek #TexasWhiskey #CraftSpirits #VodkaLovers #WhiskeyLovers #JunosLiquor #SmallBatch #BehindTheBottle #DrinkLocal #TexasProud

Juno's Liquor is a veteran owned, boutique package store with locations throughout the DFW Metroplex. We pride ourselves on offering a warm, inviting environment, clean stores and tastings courtesy of our distributors. Our mission is to be the premier boutique liquor store group in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Stop into a store near you to learn why we're different from your average independent liquor store chain. We look forward to serving you.

Visit Our Website: https://junosliquor.com/

Shop our stores:

📍Juno's Liquor South Cooper 7807 S Cooper St, Arlington, TX 76001
📍Juno's Liquor Las Colinas 313 E Las Colinas Blvd, Irving, TX 75039
📍Juno's Liquor Keller Crossing 8653 N Beach St Suite #221, Keller, TX 76244

Opening: 0:00
Meet the Makers: 0:19
Heaven's Door Whiskey Guitar Giveaway: 07:24
Shake, Stir, Sip: 8:05
Behind the Counter: 15:45

Meet the Makers

Join us on a botanical journey to the heart of New Zealand! In this episode of "If You Juno's You Know," we sit down with Rhys Julian, the founder of Strange Nature Gin. Discover the inspiration behind their unique gin creations, learn about the native New Zealand botanicals they use, and hear fascinating stories from their distillery.

Key topics:

• The Story Behind Strange Nature: How did this Kiwi gin brand come to be?
• New Zealand Botanicals: Explore the unique flora used in Strange Nature's gins.
• The Distilling Process: Gain insights into the craft behind creating exceptional gin.
• Tasting Notes: Get a taste of Strange Nature's gin and learn about their flavor profiles.

https://www.strangenaturegin.com/

Don't miss this exciting episode! Subscribe to our channel for more interviews, cocktail recipes, and all things spirits.

Shake, Stir, Sip

In this segment, Rhys introduces us to the Marlborough 75! A down under twist on the classic French 75 cocktail.

Ingredients
• 1-ounce Strange Nature Gin
• .5-ounce Fresh Lemon Juice
• .5-ounce Rose’s Simple Syrup
• Ice
• Your favorite Champagne, Prosecco or Sparkling White Wine
• Lemon for garnish
Tools
• Cocktail Shaker
• Jigger 1 oz/0.5 oz
• Strainer
• Peeler or Paring Knife
• Champagne Flute

In a shaker full of ice combine the Strange Nature Gin, lemon juice and simple syrup and shake vigorously. Like Tom Cruise in the movie Cocktail.
Pour into a champagne flute and top with sparkling wine. Garnish with a lemon twist and toast.

Behind the Counter

Rhys and Steven discuss their mutual challenges navigating the Texas Three Tier System when it comes to selling to bars and restaurants. Off premise accounts are key to Juno's growth strategy. Having strong relationships with distillery partners is an essential element of differentiation.

#IfYouJunosYouKnow #StrangeNatureGin #NewZealandGin #GinPodcast #Botanicals #CocktailRecipes #GinLovers

Juno's Liquor Store has been serving the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex since October 2014.  As of December 2022 we are under new ownership, and we're excited to bring you a reinvented Juno's. WE are proud to be Veteran Owned and Operated. Join us as we evolve into the premier boutique wine and spirits retailer throughout the DFW.

Visit Our Website: https://junosliquor.com/

Shop our stores:

7807 S Cooper St, Arlington, TX 76001
313 E Las Colinas Blvd, Irving, TX 75039 (Coming Soon)

If You Juno's You Know was honored to sit down with Warren Koguc, North Texas Market Manager for Heaven's Door Distillery. In this episode we'll introduce you to some amazing whiskeys influenced by the one and only Bob Dylan, and his love of all things Americana.

Meet the Maker

Bob Dylan — a name synonymous with music, poetry, and cultural iconography. But did you know that this legendary artist also has a deep connection to the world of spirits? Through his partnership with Heaven's Door, Dylan has brought his unique vision and passion to the creation of exceptional small batch bourbon.

Dylan's involvement in Heaven's Door is more than just a marketing gimmick. The whiskey's name, logo, and even the bottle design are inspired by his iconic artwork. Each bottle is a collectible piece, showcasing Dylan's artistic flair and the craftsmanship that goes into every batch. 

Inspired by Dylan's love of American heritage, Heaven's Door whiskeys are crafted with meticulous attention to detail. From the selection of premium grains to the careful aging process, every step is infused with a sense of authenticity. The result is a collection of spirits that pay homage to the rich traditions of American whiskey-making.

https://www.heavensdoor.com/

We thank Warren Koguc, North Texas Market Manager for Heaven's Door for joining us, and sharing their story.

Shake, Stir, Sip

The Ascension Martini (Makes Two)

Ingredients:
2.0 oz Heaven's Door Ascension Kentucky Straight Bourbon
1.0 oz Dolin Dry Vermouth
0.5 oz Rose's Simple Syrup
1 dash Reagan's Orange bitters
Luxardo Cherries (Optional Garnish)

Barware You'll Need:
Mixing Tin or Glass
Strainer
Martini Glass

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients into a mixing glass with ice. Shake Well. Strain into a martini glass. Garnish with a Luxardo Cherries or Orange twist!

For more recipes from Heaven's Door visit their website at the link below.

https://buy.heavensdoor.com/blogs/cocktail-recipes

Behind the Counter

Warren and Steven discuss the TABC Credit Default List, how some independent stores miss the mark on product mix, and how to balance phase in processes with introducing new brands to your customers.

About Juno's Liquor

Juno's Liquor has been serving the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex since October 2014.  We are proud to be Veteran Owned and Operated. Join us on our mission to be the premier boutique wine and spirits retailer throughout the DFW and beyond.

Visit Our Website: https://junosliquor.com/

Shop our stores:

7807 S Cooper St, Arlington, TX 76001
313 E Las Colinas Blvd, Irving, TX 75039 (Coming Soon)

If You Juno's You Know interviews Blackland Distillery founder Markus Kypreos. In this episode we'll explore Markus's path to founding Blackland in Fort Worth, Texas. Sample one of Blackland's signature cocktails. Then discuss how inventory shrinkage affects distillers and retailers.

Intro: 0:00
Meet the Makers: 0:24
Blackland Alexander Recipe: 7:03
Shake, Stir, Sip: 8:02
Behind the Counter: 12:56

Meet the Maker

Blackland Distillery founder Markus Kypreos sits down with If You Juno's You Know to discuss their latest releases, and high tech distilling process. Markus is a Fort Worth native, attorney, Culinary School of Fort Worth graduate, and certified sommelier. His curious epicurean outlook inspires and awes bourbon lovers in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and beyond. When visiting Fort Worth be sure to check out their tasting room.

https://blacklanddistillery.com/

Shake, Stir, Sip

Salted Pecan Old Fashioned

Ingredients:
1 oz Blackland Texas Pecan Brown Sugar Bourbon
1 oz Blackland Rye Whiskey
2-3 dashes of black walnut bitters
Pinch of salt
Fat Ice Cube
Candied Pecans

Barware You'll Need:
Mixing Tin or Glass
Bar Spoon
Strainer
Rocks Glass

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients into a mixing glass with ice. Stir to chill & dilute. Strain into a rocks glass with fat ice. Garnish with a candied pecan!

For more recipes from Blackland visit their website at the link below.

https://blacklanddistillery.com/black...

Behind the Counter

Inventory shrinkage in a retail liquor store refers to the discrepancy between the recorded inventory and the actual stock on hand. This loss can stem from various causes including employee theft, shoplifting, clerical errors, supplier fraud, and breakage. Shrinkage poses a significant challenge for liquor store owners as it directly impacts profitability and can be particularly costly due to the high value of alcoholic beverages. Implementing robust inventory management systems, security measures, and employee training are crucial for minimizing shrinkage and safeguarding the business's bottom line.

About Juno's Liquor

Juno's Liquor has been serving the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex since October 2014.  As of December 2022 we are under new ownership, and we're excited to bring you a reinvented Juno's. We are proud to be Veteran Owned and Operated. Join us as we evolve into the premier boutique wine and spirits retailer throughout the DFW.

Visit Our Website: https://junosliquor.com/

Shop our stores:

7807 S Cooper St, Arlington, TX 76001
313 E Las Colinas Blvd, Irving, TX 75039 (Coming Soon)

Ever wondered what goes into a truly exceptional Bottled in Bond Bourbon?

Join us for an exclusive interview with whiskey powerhouse Heather Greene, Master Blender at Milam & Greene Whiskey! Heather, a renowned CEO, author, and whiskey expert, dives deep into the meticulous crafting process behind their award-winning Bottled in Bond expression.

In this fascinating interview, you'll discover:

• The secrets of Bottled in Bond bourbon and its strict quality standards
• Heather Greene's unique approach to whiskey making
• How Milam & Greene's Texas Hill Country heritage shapes their bourbon

Meet the Makers

Heather Greene is a trailblazing figure in the whiskey industry, celebrated as one of the first female whiskey experts to lead a major distillery. As the CEO and Master Blender of Milam & Greene Whiskey, she has transformed the brand into a symbol of excellence and innovation. Greene is the author of the critically acclaimed book, “Whiskey Distilled: A Populist Guide to the Water of Life”, and has been recognized with numerous accolades, including double gold medals at prestigious international competitions. Her pioneering work and profound expertise have earned her a spot in the Top 50 Most Influential Women in Wine and Spirits, making her a true luminary in the world of whiskey.

Shake, Stir, Sip

Derek Kretshmer, the Milam & Greene Cocktail Cowboy, shows our own Steven Paul Matsumoto how to craft the perfect Old Fashioned.

TRIPLE CASK OLD FASHIONED

• 2 oz. Milam & Greene Triple Cask Bourbon
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 dash orange bitters
• ¼ oz. simple syrup
• 1 cherry and orange peel for garnish

Combine all ingredients except garnish in a tall mixing glass with ice and stir for 20 seconds while ice dilutes the spirits. Strain liquid into serving glass over fresh ice (if desired) and take orange peel and rub the outside of the peel around the mouth of the glass to express the orange oil in the peel. Garnish cocktail with expressed peel and cherry by placing them on top of the cocktail before serving.

Behind the Counter

Join Heather and Steven as they discuss the impact of Allocated bourbons on the distillers, independent retailers, and consumers.

Allocated bourbon refers to a limited-edition or high-demand bourbon that a distillery restricts the sale of to specific retailers or distributors. This practice arose in recent years due to a surge in bourbon's popularity, exceeding production capacity for certain coveted brands and expressions. While aimed at ensuring fair distribution across stores, it can have unintended consequences for consumers. The limited availability, coupled with high demand, has unfortunately led to significant price escalation on the secondary market. This can leave genuine bourbon enthusiasts facing inflated costs and struggling to find these bottles at their original retail price.

Understanding the frustration, Juno's Liquor takes a different approach. We firmly believe that everyone deserves a fair shot at enjoying exceptional bourbon without breaking the bank. That's why we reject predatory pricing practices that inflate the cost of allocated bottles.

Instead, we've implemented a transparent and democratic raffle system for allocated bourbons. Every last Saturday of the month, we host an Allocation Day event, where you can enter a raffle for a chance to purchase these sought-after bottles at a price close to the Suggested Retail Price (SRP). This system ensures everyone has a fair opportunity to win these coveted bourbons and experience them without the burden of exorbitant markups.

So, come join us for our next Allocation Day and raise a glass to enjoying great bourbon at a fair price!

Whether you're a seasoned bourbon drinker or just starting your whiskey journey, this interview is a must-watch!

Subscribe for more in-depth spirit explorations!

About Juno's Liquor

Juno's Liquor Store has been serving the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex since October 2014. Since being acquired in December 2022, we are on a mission to become the Starbucks of liquor stores. Join us as we evolve into the premier boutique wine and spirits retailer in the DFW Metroplex. We are proud to be veteran owned and operated. 

Visit Our Website: https://junosliquor.com/ 

Learn More about Milam & Greene: https://milamandgreenewhiskey.com 

Shop our stores: 

7807 S Cooper St, Arlington, TX 76001 

313 E Las Colinas Blvd, Irving, TX 75039 Coming Soon

Please Drink Responsibly. 

FTC Notice Juno's Liquor does not receive any compensation for the participation of distributors or manufacturers in our show. All content is editorial and educational in nature.

#BottledinBond #Bourbon #Whiskey #MilamGreene #HeatherGreene #JunosLiqor #JunosKnows

https://youtu.be/wbqmAVtGyOg?si=GkJ-ot9Aa3as4znxAhoy, mateys! Set sail for a taste of the Caribbean with Brinley Gold Shipwreck Rum! In this video, we're diving deep into the world of this unique rum brand, exploring their shipwreck-inspired flavors and uncovering the secrets behind their smooth taste. Along with how Brinley Gold is saving sea turtles in St. Kitts!

Prepare to be boarded by:

·       A detailed exploration of Brinley Gold's shipwreck rum collection, including tasting notes and expert commentary.

·       The story behind the brand and its connection to St. Kitts.

·       How they are helping save sea turtles.

·       A mixology segment featuring a simple two ingredient cocktail that showcases Brinley Gold's versatility.

Whether you're a seasoned rum connoisseur or a curious newcomer, this video is your perfect guide to Brinley Gold Shipwreck Rum. So, grab your favorite mug, buckle up, and get ready for a swashbucklin' good time!

Meet the Makers

Phillip Madden, Central Region Manager for Opici Wines and Spirits, joins us to tell us the tale of sunken ships, sea turtles, and the Brinley family’s passion for premium rum.

The Brinley family's connection to St. Kitts goes back to 1984. In 2002, Bob Brinley, the chairman of Brinley Gold Rum, along with his son Zach, decided to start a rum company. Their goal was to create the smoothest flavored rum available.

They launched their first product, Brinley Gold Vanilla Rum, in 2004 and opened a small shop on the cruise port. Over the years, they've expanded their offerings to include Coffee, Mango, and Coconut Rum. Their most recent addition is Shipwreck Spiced Rum.

The spiced rum recipe is a tribute to a British troop ship that sank off the coast of St. Kitts in 1782. Brinley Gold's success can be partly attributed to Opici, a well-known distributor, picking up their brand in 2005. More importantly, every case of Brinley Gold sold supports the St. Kitts Sea Turtle Monitoring Network.

Shake, Stir, Sip

The 93!

Named by George Palmieri of OPICI in honor of both Brinley Gold’s Vanilla and Coconut Cream rums earning 93 points from Wine Spectator.

Ingredients

·       1 ounce Brinley Gold Vanilla

·       1.5 ounces Brinley Gold Coconut Cream Rum

·       Optional Garnish: toasted coconut, chopped vanilla bean

Bar Tools

·       Shaker

·       Jigger 1 oz/0.5 oz

·       Strainer

·       Preparation

Pour the ingredients into a shaker filled with ice and give a gentle shake. Pour into a chilled martini glass and garnish as desired.

Behind the Counter

Do you dream of owning a liquor store? Steven Paul Matsumoto of Juno's Liquor dives into what it takes to start a liquor store from scratch. Budgets, permits, and regulations! Oh My!

About Juno's Liquor

Juno's Liquor Store has been serving the Arlington, Texas, and Mansfield, Texas area since October 2014.  As of December 2022, we are under new ownership, and we're excited to bring you a reinvented Juno's. Join us as we evolve into the premier boutique wine and spirits retailer in the DFW Metroplex. We are proud to be veteran owned and operated.

Visit Our Website: https://junosliquor.com/

Learn More about Brinley Gold: https://www.brinleygoldshipwreck.com/

Help Save Sea Turtles: https://www.stkittsturtles.org/

Shop our stores:

7807 S Cooper St, Arlington, TX 76001

Coming Soon to Irving!

Please Drink Responsibly.

FTC Notice

Juno's Liquor does not receive any compensation for the participation of distributors or manufacturers in our show. All content is editorial and educational in nature.

#rumlife #rumlover #sippingrum #seaturtles #savetheturtles #stkitts #junosknows #junosliquor

Discover the history and unique story of Nikka Whisky, a popular Japanese whiskey. Learn about its origins, production process and how it became a favorite in Dallas-Fort Worth. Plus, head to Juno's Liquor for an in-depth tasting experience of Nikka's different flavors and blends. Cheers to discovering the world of Japanese whiskey! 🥃 #NikkaWhisky #JapaneseWhiskey #DFWDrinks #junosknowspodcast

Meet the Makers

Jermaine Davis is a Business Development manager for Hotaling and Co, importers of Nikka Whisky. With over ten years in the spirits industry, Jermaine has represented some of the top brands in the world. We're honored to have him tell the story of how Masataka Taketsuru created Nikka Whisky.

Nikka's story is intrinsically linked to Masataka Taketsuru, the revered "Father of Japanese Whisky." Inspired by his Scottish education in whisky-making, Taketsuru returned to Japan in the 1920s brimming with knowledge and a resolute vision. His unwavering dedication led to the establishment of Nikka Whisky, aiming to create a spirit that rivaled the best Scotch whiskies.

At the core of Nikka's philosophy lies an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and tradition. Every step, from meticulously selecting the finest ingredients (grains and the purest water sources of Hokkaido) to the meticulous blending and aging process, is undertaken with unwavering precision and passion. Nikka's approach masterfully blends time-tested Scottish methods with renowned Japanese meticulousness, resulting in a truly unique expression that bridges the gap between East and West.

https://www.nikka.com/eng/

Shake, Stir, Sip

The Perfect Nikka Manhattan

The Perfect Nikka Manhattan was awarded “Best Cocktail” at the Paris Cocktails Spirits bar show in 2013. The exact recipe used for this event used Dolin rouge and Dolin dry vermouths with Angostura bitters.

Ingredients

60ml (2 oz) Nikka Coffey Grain Whisky
15ml (0.5 oz) Dolin Dry Vermouth
15ml (0.5) Dolin Sweet Vermouth
2 dashes Angostura bitters
Lemon or Orange peel

Bar Tools

Bar Spoon
Citrus Peeler
Mixing vessel
Jigger 1 oz/0.5 oz
Strainer
Garnish Picks

Preparation

Pour the ingredients into a mixing glass with ice. Stir and strain into a chilled glass. Express a lemon or orange zest and garnish with a single cocktail cherry.

Behind the Counter

Steven Paul Matsumoto of Juno's Liquor shares the economics behind gift cards. Using publicly available information on Starbucks as an example, you can learn the value of offering gift cards to your customers. Not only as a convenient gift item, but as a zero interest financing tool.

About Juno's Liquor

Juno's Liquor Store has been serving the Arlington, Texas and Mansfield, Texas area since October 2014.  As of December 2022 we are under new ownership, and we're excited to bring you a reinvented Juno's. Join us as we evolve into the premier boutique wine and spirits retailer in the DFW Metroplex. We are proud to be veteran owned and operated.

Visit Our Website: https://junosliquor.com/

Shop our store:

7807 S Cooper St, Arlington, TX 76001

Please Drink Responsibly.

FTC Notice

Juno's Liquor does not receive any compensation for the participation of distributors or manufacturers in our show. All content is editorial and educational in nature.

Raise a glass and join Junos Liquor's podcast as we dive into the world of organic vodka with the experts at Purity Distillery! In this episode, we'll not only be interviewing the team behind Purity Vodka, a Swedish brand renowned for its commitment to organic ingredients and sustainable practices, but we'll also be treated to a live cocktail demonstration featuring their signature spirit!

Guests: Jordan Von Unschuld, Market Development Manager at Purity Distillery

What you'll learn:

What exactly is organic vodka, and how does it differ from conventional vodka?
Purity Distillery's unique approach to sourcing organic ingredients and maintaining sustainable practices.

Live Cocktail Demonstration: Witness the experts from Purity Distillery craft a delicious dirty martini using their organic vodka, complete with a step-by-step recipe breakdown.

Purity Dirty Martini Recipe

The Dirty Martini has a history as rich and savory as the drink itself. Believed to have originated in the late 19th century, it was originally made with gin and a splash of olive brine. Later, during the 1930s, the vodka version became popular. Its name comes from the "dirty" appearance of the drink due to the addition of olive brine. The Dirty Martini continues to be a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts, with variations that include additional ingredients such as blue cheese-stuffed olives or jalapeño brine.

Ingredients
5 parts Purity Connoisseur 51 Reserve Organic Vodka
1 part dry vermouth
1 part Olive Brine
3 Olives

Method
To create the perfect Dirty Martini, begin by chilling a martini glass in the freezer. In a mixing glass, combine Purity Connoisseur 51 Reserve Vodka and high-quality dry vermouth. Add olive brine for a traditional Dirty Martini, or adjust the amount to your liking.

Add ice to the mixing glass and stir gently for around 30 seconds. Take the chilled martini glass out of the freezer and strain the cocktail into the glass. Garnish with 3 high-quality olives, depending on your preference.

For a unique twist, try adding a splash of jalapeño brine or blue cheese-stuffed olives to create a variation of the classic Dirty Martini. Enjoy your expertly crafted cocktail, you’re worth it!

For more amazing cocktail recipes visit http://puritydistillery.com

Perfect for:

Vodka enthusiasts curious about organic options.
Consumers seeking sustainable and ethically produced spirits.
Anyone interested in learning more about the production process behind their favorite drinks.
Cocktail lovers looking to expand their recipe repertoire.

Tune in and discover the world of organic vodka with Purity Distillery!

About Juno's Liquor

Juno's Liquor Store has been serving the South Arlington and North Mansfield, Texas area since October 2014.  As of December 2022 we are under new ownership, and we're excited to bring you a reinvented Juno's. Join us as we evolve into the premier boutique wine and spirits retailer in the DFW Metroplex.

Visit Our Website: https://junosliquor.com/

Shop our store:

7807 S Cooper St, Arlington, TX 76001

FTC Notice

Juno's Liquor does not receive any compensation for the participation of distributors and manufacturers in our show. All content is editorial and educational in nature.

Please Drink Responsibly