Tasting Notes:  In this episode of the Dram Amateur Podcast, host Jason takes listeners on a deep dive into the fundamentals of spirits. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a curious beginner, this "back to basics" guide has something for everyone. Jason breaks down key industry terminology surrounding bourbon, rum, tequila, and mezcal, helping demystify the language often used by pros. He also shares practical tips on bottle storage and maintenance to keep your spirits in prime condition. Rounding out the episode, Jason offers insights on how to properly taste and savor these fine liquors, ensuring you get the most out of every dram. Grab your favorite bottle and tune in—it's time to elevate your spirits knowledge!

Listener Engagement: Have a term you need some insight on?  Share your thoughts with Jason on Instagram at @dram_amateur or email at [email protected]. Your feedback might be featured in a future episode!

Subscribe and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow spirits enthusiasts. Cheers and thank you for your support!

Tasting Notes: In this episode of The Dram Amateur Podcast, host Jason takes a heartfelt look back at the year 2024. Sharing personal insights from his podcasting journey, Jason expresses his gratitude for the supportive podcast and spirits communities that have enriched his experiences throughout the year.

Listeners can look forward to a deep dive into Jason’s favorite spirits of the year, including standout bourbons, ryes, tequilas, mezcals, and rums. 

Listener Engagement: Have a favorite spirit from 2024 or a story about your own journey with whiskey, tequila, mezcal, or rum? Share your thoughts with Jason on Instagram at @dram_amateur or email at [email protected]. Your feedback might be featured in a future episode!

Subscribe and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow spirits enthusiasts. Cheers to a fantastic year ahead!

Tasting Notes:  In this episode of The Dram Amateur Podcast, Jason welcomes Instagram influencer John (mr._given) for part 2 of an engaging conversation about spirits, sports, and the art of storytelling. They explore John’s journey into whiskey, sharing favorite bottles across whiskey, rum, and tequila, and discuss the challenges and creativity involved in being a social media influencer in the whiskey community. The conversation touches on John's creativity behind #highproofhikes and #porchpops, whiskey trends, the impact of FOMO (fear of missing out), and the evolving culture surrounding spirits, offering insights into finding quality pours without chasing hype.  

The duo also draws parallels between their favorite sports teams, the San Francisco 49ers and UGA football, and the passionate world of whiskey fandom, blending personal anecdotes and humor. They emphasize the importance of supporting local distilleries and fostering community within the spirits world. Whether you're a whiskey lover, a football fan, or curious about the intersection of social media and whiskey culture, this episode offers something for everyone. Tune in now, and be sure to follow @mr._given on Instagram for more whiskey inspiration!

Tasting Notes:  In this episode of The Dram Amateur Podcast, Jason welcomes Instagram influencer John (mr._given) for part 1 of an engaging conversation about spirits, sports, and the art of storytelling. They explore John’s journey into whiskey, sharing favorite bottles across whiskey, rum, and tequila, and discuss the challenges and creativity involved in being a social media influencer in the whiskey community. The conversation touches on John's creativity behind #highproofhikes and #porchpops, whiskey trends, the impact of FOMO (fear of missing out), and the evolving culture surrounding spirits, offering insights into finding quality pours without chasing hype.  

The duo also draws parallels between their favorite sports teams, the San Francisco 49ers and UGA football, and the passionate world of whiskey fandom, blending personal anecdotes and humor. They emphasize the importance of supporting local distilleries and fostering community within the spirits world. Whether you're a whiskey lover, a football fan, or curious about the intersection of social media and whiskey culture, this episode offers something for everyone. Tune in now, and be sure to follow @mr._given on Instagram for more whiskey inspiration!

Tasting Notes: In this episode of The Dram Amateur Podcast, host Jason sits down with Chris, one of the creative forces behind the Instagram account @cats_cocktails_conversations. Chris shares his inspiring journey from building a backyard bar to becoming a prominent voice in the whiskey and cocktail community.  

They explore the power of storytelling in creating connections, the evolution of Chris's whiskey collection, and the rewarding relationships he’s built within the Spirit Animal Society and beyond. Chris also dives into his role with 10th Mountain Whiskey, a brand rooted in philanthropy and quality, and reflects on the importance of authenticity in the influencer space.  

From surprising whiskey discoveries to the art of cigars, slowing down, and fostering genuine connections, this conversation is a celebration of shared passions and entrepreneurial spirit. Chris also teases his exciting plans to open a bar in Tyler, Texas, blending his love of storytelling and community into his next big adventure.  

Grab a glass and join us for an engaging discussion about cocktails, camaraderie, and the connections that make it all worthwhile. Cheers!

Tasting Notes: In the latest episode of The Dram Amateur Podcast, Jason welcomes a very special guest—his wife Liz! This episode offers a heartfelt glimpse into their shared journey as a couple, with stories of their adventures hunting down rare bottles, exploring new cocktail creations, and bonding over their shared love of food and drink. They reminisce about memorable pours they've discovered together and the experiences that have deepened their appreciation for the world of spirits.

Listeners get an inside look at their dynamic, from playful debates over favorite memories to the excitement of finding unique bottles on their hunts. Liz also shares her perspective on how her palate has evolved, the drinks she loves, and the memories attached to some of their most cherished finds. Whether you're a whiskey connoisseur or just enjoy a good story about shared passions, this episode is packed with insights, laughter, and a genuine celebration of love, food, and the art of the pour.

Tasting Notes: In this episode of The Dram Amateur Podcast, we're taking you on a deep dive into the fascinating story of the Caroni Distillery—a once-forgotten rum distillery from Trinidad that has since risen to legendary status in the spirits world. We’ll explore how Caroni went from a crucial part of Trinidad’s rum industry to being abandoned, only to be rediscovered years later, sparking a global “Caronimania.”

Whether you're a rum enthusiast, a collector, or simply curious about the world of spirits, this episode is packed with history, passion, and a bit of rum-fueled serendipity! Don’t miss out on this incredible tale of one of the most coveted distilleries in rum history.

Tune in and grab your glass, because you won’t want to miss this!

Tasting Notes:  In this episode of The Dram Amateur Podcast, we dive into the world of extravagant bourbon collections—specifically, those locked behind glass cases with hefty price tags. Join me as I explore an impressive yet incredibly overpriced bourbon display that raises some big questions about how we value and sell these prized spirits. Is this museum-style method of showcasing bourbon outdated, and is it turning collectors and enthusiasts away? Tune in to hear why this approach might be a thing of the past and what the future of bourbon sales could look like for true aficionados.

Tasting Notes:  In this episode of the Dram Amateur Podcast we’re taking you on a journey from agave to bottle, exploring the intricate process of tequila production. From harvesting and cooking the agave, to fermenting, distilling, and aging the spirit, we break down each step with insights on traditional and modern methods. Learn how techniques and time shape the flavor of this iconic Mexican spirit, and gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind every bottle of tequila. Whether you’re a tequila novice or a seasoned sipper, this episode will leave you thirsty for more!

Tasting Notes:  Set sail with the Dram Amateur Podcast as we dive into the legendary connection between pirates and rum. Discover how this fiery spirit became a staple on pirate ships, from preserving water on long voyages to boosting morale and preventing scurvy. We’ll explore the origins of grog, the daily rum rations of the British Royal Navy, and why even the most fearsome pirates couldn’t resist the allure of rum. Join us for a swashbuckling journey through the high seas and the rich history of rum, the true drink of pirates.