The Bourbon Life

This week on The Whiskey Trip, Big Chief rides into Houston, Texas to link up with the crew from The Noble Dram—a show that's built its reputation on exploring whiskey from around the world and delivering tasting notes that help you decide what's worth the chase.

Aaron and Gavin bring that global perspective, and this episode turns into a true collaboration—stories, insight, and pours that stretch from Georgia to Texas and beyond.

On the first half, Big Chief pours something special—Effie Jewel from Doc Brown Farm & Distillers. This limited run, four-year-old Georgia bourbon is crafted with heirloom Jimmy Red corn, then sent to the Texas Coast where six months of humidity and salt air shape it into a bold, one-of-a-kind pour.

Then on the second half, he shifts gears and opens up an 8-year-old cask strength Jimmy's from Kiepersol Distillery—and this one flat out delivers. It's loaded with a stunning rye spice that hits with authority, layered with that unmistakable horehound candy note that lingers and pulls you right back in for another sip.

But this ride isn't just about what's in the glass. The conversation drifts into hometown sports—loyalty, pride, and the teams that raised us—and rolls right into BBQ philosophy, where opinions run strong and tradition matters just as much as technique.

This episode is about more than whiskey—it's about culture, community, and the stories that come with every pour.

Take the Ride with Big Chief. Cheers.

In this Episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast, Mark and the Crew are back behind the mics for another laid-back Crew hang—just good bourbon, sharp takes, and the kind of unfiltered conversation that always seems to take on a life of its own. With Chad out this time, the dynamic shifts just enough to keep things interesting, and the Crew leans into it with plenty of laughs, industry insight, and a few moments that wander delightfully off script.

Across three segments, the conversation covers some of the biggest headlines currently buzzing around the bourbon world. The Crew dives into the news of MGP Ingredients halting production for brands like Lux Row Distillers and Limestone Branch Distillery, unpacking what it could mean for sourced whiskey and the broader market. They also tackle the growing debate over whether single barrel picks are starting to lose their shine in an increasingly saturated space—offering some honest (and likely controversial) opinions along the way. And of course, there's plenty of discussion around the headline-grabbing rumor of Sazerac Company potentially making a massive move to acquire Brown‑Forman, and what a deal of that scale could mean for the future of the industry.

On the tasting side, the Crew puts three bottles through their paces: the new Bardstown Bourbon Company Cascadia Garryana Oak Bourbon, Jim Beam Single Barrel Bourbon, and the highly anticipated 2026 release of Star Hill Farm Whiskey. As always, the reviews are candid, the palates are honest, and the reactions are exactly what you'd expect—ranging from pleasantly surprised to "let's talk about this…"

It's another classic Crew Episode—relaxed, entertaining, and packed with bourbon knowledge, strong opinions, and just enough chaos to make you feel like you're right there at the table with them.

This episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast is sponsored by District 7 Social and The Kitchen Table at The James B. Beam Distilling Co.

This week on The Whiskey Trip, Big Chief takes a ride with Mark Rucker from the The Bourbon Life Podcast—a show built on one simple truth: bourbon isn't just something you drink… it's a journey you live.

This episode is all about the conversation.

Big Chief puts Mark in the hot seat—digging into how The Bourbon Life got its start, the road it's taken, and the people and moments that shaped it along the way. It's real talk about podcasting, passion, and staying authentic in a world where bourbon just keeps getting bigger.

And yeah… the pours are flowing.

Big Chief lines up:

Eagle Rare 10 Year Bourbon

Henry McKenna 10 Year Bottled-in-Bond

Russell's Reserve 10 Year Bourbon

Knob Creek 10 Year Blender's Cut — one that might just be creeping into Big Chief's Whiskey of the Year conversation

Mark brings his own fire:

Eagle Rare Store Pick

Henry McKenna 10 Year Bottled-in-Bond

Knob Creek 12 Year Bourbon 120 Proof

But this ride isn't about breaking down tasting notes—it's about the questions, the stories, and the perspective from both sides of the mic.

From bourbon culture and hype to where things are headed next, Big Chief keeps it honest and keeps it moving—pulling out the kind of conversation you only get when two guys who live this stuff sit down and let it ride.

Because at the end of the day… it's not about the bottle.

It's about the story behind it.

Take the Ride with Big Chief. Cheers

This week on The Whiskey Trip podcast, Big Chief sits down with Preston Wall for a ride that goes beyond the glass, diving into service, sacrifice, and the power of real connection. Frontline Heroes Outdoors (FHO) is a Texas-born 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting active duty military, veterans, law enforcement, and first responders—along with their families, with a strong focus on spouses of deployed members and Gold Star Families. Through outdoor adventures and shared experiences, FHO creates a space where camaraderie is rebuilt, purpose is rediscovered, and no one has to carry the weight alone.

On the first half, Big Chief pours a 12-year Old Charter Oak French Oak while Preston shares how it all began. Aged in rare French Oak, this bourbon delivers rich sweetness, subtle oak influence, and a silky, refined texture that sets the tone for a powerful story of mission and impact.

On the second half, Big Chief cracks into the new Blender's Edition 01 from Knob Creek, the first in a limited series focused on the art of blending. This release brings bold notes of dark vanilla, honey, and rich spice. At 10 years old, 106 proof, and priced at $39.99, it raises the question of whether Jim Beam is signaling a shift—bringing real value back to the shelf.

Preston also sips on one of FHO's barrel picks from Southern Spirits Collective, highlighting a key part of their mission. These hand-selected barrels aren't just great whiskey—they're tied directly to giving back. Each pick helps support the heroes and families FHO serves, turning every pour into something bigger than the glass. It's whiskey with purpose, building community one bottle at a time.

This episode is about more than great whiskey. It's about honoring those who serve, building something meaningful, and supporting a mission that truly matters.

Take the Ride with Big Chief. Cheers

In this episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast, Mark and the Matt sit down with Bennett Clark, President, and Royce Blevins, Lead Founder, of Burnt Tavern Bourbon from William Berkele Distillery, for a great conversation centered around some amazing Kentucky history and a new brand bringing that history back to life.

Across three segments, the guys dive into Bennett and Royce's respective and unique backgrounds and how that led them both to the Bourbon world, the incredible history and story of the William Berkele Distillery and the Burnt Tavern of Garrard County, as well as what the future looks like for the brand and Distillery.

The conversation blends industry insight with plenty of laughs, behind-the-scenes perspective, and the kind of easygoing camaraderie that makes these episodes feel like you're right there at the table.

They also taste and review the initial release from William Berkele Distillery, their flagship Burnt Tavern 7-Year Old Bourbon.

From thoughtful discussion about the history of the brand to honest reviews of what's in the glass, this episode delivers a great mix of information and entertainment for bourbon fans of all levels.

Pull up a chair, pour yourself something good, and enjoy this episode with Bennett Clark and Royce Blevins.

This episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast is sponsored by District 7 Social and The Kitchen Table at The James B. Beam Distilling Co.

This week, Big Chief takes you on a ride that doesn't just sip whiskey… it digs it straight out of the dirt and pours history into your glass.

The show kicks off with a bold pour of Old Kernel from Ironclad Distillery Co.—a whiskey that sets the tone for what's ahead. Rich, rooted, and unapologetically tied to place, it's the perfect way to open a conversation about grain, heritage, and identity.

Big Chief sits down with Shelley Sackier, who brings more than knowledge—she brings purpose. Her journey through whiskey has led her beyond barrels and into the soil of Virginia, chasing something deeper than flavor… chasing origin.

At the heart of this episode is the Virginia Heritage Grain Project, a movement focused on reviving the grains that built American whiskey as far back as 1620. This isn't about nostalgia—it's about rediscovery. About taking grains that were lost to time and putting them back where they belong… in the ground, in the mash, and in your glass.

But this project isn't a solo act.

Distillers across Virginia are stepping up to be part of something bigger:

• Mary Allison at Reservoir Distillery, leading the charge by turning heritage grains into living, breathing whiskey

• Owen King of Ironclad Distillery Co., pushing the idea that whiskey should reflect where it's grown, not just how it's made

Together, they're building a new path—pairing farmers and distillers, one grain at a time, to create true grain-to-glass whiskey rooted in Virginia soil.

Heritage corn

Heritage rye

Heritage wheat

Heritage barley

These aren't your high-yield, modern crops. These are grains selected for flavor, for character, for story. Pulled from seed banks, historic farms, and collections that predate modern agriculture, they bring something back to whiskey that's been missing… soul.

Standout grains like Seashore Black Rye are already proving what's possible—delivering bold, earthy, spice-driven profiles that hit different than anything coming off today's commodity grain market.

On the second half, Big Chief leans into the glass with a wheated whiskey from Reservoir Distillery—soft, layered, and full of depth—before stepping into bold territory with their Milk Stout Bourbon. A whiskey that pushes boundaries and shows exactly what happens when innovation meets tradition.

This episode isn't just about whiskey.

It's about where it comes from.

Who grows it.

Who fights to preserve it.

Because before the barrel…

Before the still…

There was the grain.

And Virginia is bringing it back.

Take the Ride with Big Chief. Cheers

In this episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast, Mark and Matt sit down with Randy Prasse, President & COO of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival, for a great conversation about one of the premier bourbon events in the world and what's ahead for the Festival.

Across three segments, the guys dive into Randy's background, how he found his way into the bourbon industry, and what it takes to help lead and evolve an event as iconic as the Kentucky Bourbon Festival. Randy shares insights into the vision for the Festival, how it continues to grow, and what bourbon fans can expect moving forward.

The conversation blends industry insight with plenty of laughs, behind-the-scenes perspective, and the kind of easygoing camaraderie that makes these episodes feel like you're right there at the table.

As always, they also taste and review three outstanding pours:

· New Riff Bottled in Bond Bourbon

· New Riff 8-Year-Old Bottled in Bond Bourbon

· New Riff 6-Year-Old Malted Rye

From thoughtful discussion about the evolution of bourbon culture to honest reviews of what's in the glass, this episode delivers a great mix of information and entertainment for bourbon fans of all levels.

Pull up a chair, pour yourself something good, and enjoy this episode with Randy Prasse.

Big Chief takes you deep into the heart of Texas whiskey country with Jake Clements, the man behind one of the most authentic gatherings in the Lone Star State—the Texas Whiskey Festival.

Set against the rugged, old west backdrop of Star Hill Ranch in Bee Cave, the 9th Annual Texas Whiskey Festival isn't just an event—it's a full-blown Texas whiskey family reunion. Weathered wood, dusty streets, and the spirit of independence set the tone as distillers and whiskey lovers come together for something real.

Jake and the big man sit down and talk about what it takes to build a festival that brings together the best of Texas. This isn't about flash—it's about shaking hands, hearing the stories, and tasting what the Texas heat and grit can truly create.

On this episode, they sip their way through a lineup that represents the backbone of Texas whiskey:

• Garrison Brothers bringing bold, unapologetic Texas bourbon

• Maverick Whiskey with deep roots and rich character

• Ranger Creek delivering balance and craftsmanship

• Andalusia Whiskey Co. pushing Texas single malt forward

• And rising names like Jimmy's Bourbon adding fresh fire to the scene

From grain to glass, this conversation is about more than whiskey—it's about community, legacy, and pride in what Texas is building.

And this year, it all means a little more.

The 9th Annual Texas Whiskey Festival proudly supports Frontline Heroes Outdoors, standing behind those who've served and sacrificed.

Come join us on April 18th at Star Hill Ranch and experience Texas whiskey the way it was meant to be—handshakes, stories, and a glass in your hand.

Get your tickets and learn more at: https://www.txwhiskeyfest.com

This episode is a ride through dust, oak, fire, and Texas soul.

Take the Ride with Big Chief. Cheers.

In this episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast, Mark and the crew are back in the studio for a laid-back, no-guest hang—just good bourbon, good stories, and plenty of unfiltered conversation. With Stacey and Chad out, the guys take full advantage of the opportunity to dive into a wide range of topics, from what's happening in the bourbon world right now to some classic behind-the-scenes banter that only the Crew can deliver.

Across three segments, the conversation flows naturally (as it tends to do), mixing bourbon insights with plenty of laughs, strong opinions, and a few moments that probably went just a little off the rails—in the best way possible. It's the kind of episode that feels like you're sitting at the table with them, glass in hand. The guys talk about recent updates on the Bardstown Bourbon and Uncle Nearest litigation as well as the proposed merger between Brown Forman and Pernod Ricard.

They also taste and review a 2018 Eagle Rare 10 Year Bourbon , the brand new 2026 Michter's 10 Year Bourbon, and the brand new Rare Perfection 10 Year Bourbon from Preservation Distillery.

As always, the reviews are honest, the takes are unfiltered, and the conversation is exactly what you've come to expect from a Crew episode—relaxed, entertaining, and full of bourbon passion.

Pull up a chair, pour yourself something neat, and enjoy this fun, free-flowing episode with The Bourbon Life Crew.

This Episode is sponsored by District 7 and The Kitchen Table at the James B. Beam Distilling Co.

This week, Big Chief heads out West to Fallon, Nevada and sits down with the heart and soul behind Frey Ranch Distillery, founders, farmers, and distillers, and husband and wife team, Colby Frey and Ashley Frey. This isn't just whiskey, this is dirt to glass, grown under big sky country and built with grit.

The ride kicks off with a pour of Frey Ranch Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a true four grain expression that tells the story of their land. With a mash bill of 66.6% corn, 11.4% winter rye, 10% soft white wheat, and 12% two row barley malted right there on site, this one carries the Frey fingerprint from seed to sip. At 90 proof, it drinks with a little more fire than expected, maybe that double distillation, maybe that dry Nevada air, but it settles in with notes of citrus, banana chips, caramel, white pepper, and toffee dancing across the palate.

Then the second half, and folks, this is where it gets serious.

The Freys introduce their upcoming April release, the inaugural Farm Strength 100% winter rye, aged 6 years and clocking in at a bold 124.52 proof. This one hits Big Chief right in the wheelhouse. We're talking horehound candy sweetness, black licorice spice, and baked apple pie dripping in caramel. It's layered, it's unapologetic, and it's already stepping into the ring as a contender for Big Chief's Whiskey of the Year.

But this episode goes beyond the glass.

It's about the grind, the land, the mindset.

Colby talks about dreaming up new ideas while riding a tractor through Nevada soil, proving innovation doesn't always come from a boardroom, sometimes it comes from the field. Ashley brings the balance, the business, and the backbone that keeps this operation pushing forward.

This is American farming meeting American whiskey at the highest level.

No shortcuts, no sourcing, just hard work, family roots, and a commitment to doing it right.

Saddle up and pour a glass, this is one hell of a ride.

Take the Ride with Big Chief, Cheers