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Whiskey lovers, get ready to fill your glasses to the brim with insights and laughter as we welcome the remarkable Jason Ornelas to our holiday-themed episode. You'll learn the secret behind the viral "Ornelas pour" and how Jason turned his whiskey passion into a thriving career. From rooftop holiday lights to the intricacies of podcasting, our conversation is as spirited as the drinks we discuss, and we can’t wait for you to hear all about it.

Our journey through the whiskey world doesn't stop at stories and pours. We navigate the tricky digital landscape, sharing our evolution from static images to dynamic reels, and the thrill of partnering with brands while staying true to ourselves. Whether you’re a creator on the rise or a seasoned influencer, you’ll find our tales of success and the occasional flop both relatable and inspiring. We also offer a sneak peek into California's competitive alcohol market and the strategic planning needed for brands to stand out.

As we look to the future, we savor predictions for the bourbon industry and explore the rising appeal of tequila. And for those with a fondness for mixology, our cocktail crafting segment is sure to inspire. We wrap up with a festive feast of gift ideas—from chic whiskey-themed watches to travel kits—ensuring you’re ready for a holiday season filled with joy and thoughtful surprises. Don’t miss the laughs, the insights, and the holiday cheer packed into this spirited episode!

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What happens when a seasoned bartender becomes a social media sensation? Al Marquez, with over 16 years in the bar industry, shares his comedic journey from serving Sacramento cocktails to creating viral memes and becoming a brand ambassador for Bar Hill Gin. Discover how Al's humor, encapsulated in his "Irritable Al Syndrome" persona, translates into a unique voice that has amplified our podcast's social media flair. Together, we reminisce about our collaborative experiences and his creative contributions that have resonated with bartenders and enthusiasts worldwide.

Ever wondered how social media backlash parallels the challenges faced behind the bar? Al and I draw intriguing comparisons between online fame and bartending life, sharing tales of navigating negative feedback and difficult customers with equal resilience. We explore the evolving landscape for bartenders, emphasizing the value of fresh perspectives and passion that new talent brings to the industry. From humorous SportsCenter commentary to the nuances of content creation, this conversation is both reflective and entertaining.

The episode wraps up with a dive into the complexities of California's bar industry, including the labor challenges and the escalating cost of living impacting staff. We ponder the influence of artificial intelligence on hospitality, sharing practical applications and contemplating its transformative potential. Whether it's crafting cocktails or crafting content, this episode is a vibrant mix of insights, humor, and a genuine love for the ever-evolving bar scene. Tune in for a rich tapestry of stories that capture the heart of bartending and social media creativity.

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Join us as we reconnect with our listeners, exploring the vibrant world of spirits through the lens of our incredible guest, Aline Takuya, bar director of the renowned Modernist bar in Fresno, California. Aline shares her journey of defying conventional paths and embracing her Hmong heritage in bartending, while infusing traditional flavors into innovative cocktails. Her story is not just about mixing drinks, but about weaving together cultural identity, creativity, and a passion for excellence in an industry that's full of potential yet fraught with challenges.

We dive into the lesser-known, yet richly creative cocktail culture of Fresno, shattering the city's once mundane image. Aling exemplifies the spirit of small markets, proving that even in places like Fresno, innovation thrives and local communities can redefine success in the hospitality industry. From crafting unique cocktail menus to nurturing new talent in the bar scene, she highlights the importance of creating meaningful connections and standing out in markets with limited competition. Through her experiences, we uncover the struggles and triumphs of representing the Hmong community and women in bartending, emphasizing the need for mutual respect and authenticity in professional settings.

As we explore broader societal issues in the hospitality industry, our conversation touches on the challenges women face, the evolution of brand partnerships, and the artistry behind Modernist's new cocktail menu. We question traditional industry norms and geographic gatekeeping, advocating for a more inclusive and diverse conversation about spirits. Whether you're a cocktail enthusiast, a hospitality veteran, or someone curious about the intersection of culture, creativity, and service, this episode promises an engaging and enlightening discussion that celebrates the vibrant and innovative world of spirits.

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Ever wondered how a Future Farmer of America transitions into a renowned spirits ambassador? Our latest episode features Andrew Calisterio, the West Coast ambassador for Ron Zacapa and George Dickel, who shares his incredible journey from raising cows to mastering the art of mixology. Along the way, Andrew reveals how his early days at Starbucks honed his flavor-identifying skills, setting the stage for his current success in the spirits industry. Join us as we recount tales from a transformative trip to Greece and discuss the nuances of readjusting to daily life back home.

This episode is packed with fascinating insights into the world of hospitality and career transitions. We explore the importance of mastering foundational skills and the evolving culture of the hospitality industry. Hear about innovative practices like carbonating ketchup and the personal challenges and rewards of moving to new cities for career growth. We dive deep into the multifaceted identity of a brand ambassador, as Andrew shares his eclectic interests, from heavy music to dirt bike races, illustrating the value of being a "habitual hobbyist."

But that's not all—we also tackle the evolving local food scene and sustainable innovations in the spirits industry. Discover how unique dining concepts are emerging post-pandemic and the significance of community support for culinary ventures. Learn about eco-friendly practices in the spirits business, like using discarded fruits, and get a glimpse into the most valuable alcohol brands and the surprising growth of Baiju. To top it off, we sprinkle in some cultural recommendations and insights into our online presence and gaming community, ensuring you leave with plenty of new ideas and entertainment to explore.

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What if we told you there's a new vodka made entirely from agave, launching soon? Join us on the Good Bottle Podcast as Chris Sinclair sits down with industry veterans Mitch Wilson and Phil Bayly to unpack the buzz around Weber Ranch 1902 Vodka. Mitch voices his doubts about the necessity of another vodka on store shelves, while Phil makes a compelling case for the unique opportunities agave-based spirits offer. The discussion heats up as they consider the involvement of heavyweights from Patron and Southern Glacier in this venture, diving into the challenges and excitement of bringing agave vodka to market.

Beyond this new vodka, our conversation broadens to the dynamic world of agave spirits. We explore the delicate balance between tradition and the commercial boom of tequila and mezcal. From Patron's evolution to the political hurdles in mezcal certification, and the global proliferation of agave spirits, we leave no stone unturned. We also shed light on the scarcity of mature agave, the rising prices, and the importance of sustainable practices. Get ready for a deep, thought-provoking episode full of industry insights and future trends that will shape the agave spirits market.

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Pouring another round, this episode takes you behind the scenes of the release of "The Tequila Ambassador: Version Originale". We uncover the meticulous efforts to revive Tomas's voice in this new edition, from navigating the hurdles of international collaboration during a pandemic to fleshing out the untold stories that enrich the manuscript. The literary labor of love that Phil, Tomas, and Mitch embarked upon is revealed, illustrating the significance of preserving the true essence of Tomas's vision for the book. We toast to the fruition of this revised text as it stands today—an embodiment of passion, knowledge, and tequila's undeniable cultural impact.

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Embark on a journey through the transformative world of Riesling with our charismatic guest, Kristie Tacey of Tessier Wines, as we shatter American misconceptions of this multifaceted varietal. From my own dining epiphanies to Kristie's plans for skin-contact white wines, we celebrate the release—and quick disappearance—of the Tessier 2022 Soul Love, leaving us yearning for just one more sip. Revel in the stories of Alsatian delights and get a peek behind the curtain of the natural wine movement, paired with a hearty dose of transparency talk and its impact on the wine industry.

Ever wondered how a graphic health warning might change your next bottle of wine? We take a deep look at government's hand in alcohol consumption awareness, comparing the potential effects on the industry to the seismic shifts caused by similar warnings in the tobacco world. Kristie helps us navigate the cultural ripples from Ireland to South America, and we ponder whether the pursuit of transparency will shake up our buying habits as profoundly as the latest scientific findings disrupt public perception.

And for those with a taste for the novel, we explore the tantalizing realm of CBD-infused wines, considering whether they're complicating or enhancing our imbibing experience. To top off the episode, I share the comedies and melodies currently fueling my life—think Lonely Island and Waxahatchee, with a dash of Chastity Belt for good measure. As we raise a glass to networking with just the right touch of CBD confidence, join us for laughs, insights, and the delightful complexities that come with the ever-evolving world of alcohol and pleasure.

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We open a bottle of intrigue when Kristie Tacey, the biotech professional turned winemaking wizard behind Tessier Wines, pulls up a chair at our podcast table. Her story, a blend of science, art, and sheer tenacity, pours out as we explore the vine-laden path that led her to carve out a niche in the world of boutique wines. Kristie's candid revelations about the hurdles she's overcome, from the initial spark at a winery visit to juggling her own label while working for others, are not just her personal tasting notes on life but a robust guide for anyone fermenting their own dream.

Venturing into the vineyards, we unravel the intricate dance of sourcing grapes and the deep connections with the earth and people that bring a bottle to life. Kristie leads us through this ritual, sharing her transition from the familiar terroir of the Russian River Valley to the bold frontiers of the El Dorado and Santa Cruz Mountains. We then uncork the process behind Tessier's standout wine labels, where each design is a toast to the essence captured within the glass, marrying the precision of Kristie's scientific background with the flourish of her artistic touch.

Our conversation takes a rhythmic turn as we explore the symphony of senses that is pairing wine with the perfect playlist. Kristie tunes us into the harmonious practice of matching her wines with melodies, a process that goes beyond the palate to an immersive sensory experience including her curated Spotify playlists. As we anticipate the upcoming wine release event, which promises to be a confluence of delectable bites, soulful tracks, and, of course, exceptional wines, we raise our glasses to the melody of winemaking – where every sip is a note and every bottle tells a story.

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"Featuring special guest Lucas Assis, this podcast covers the nuances of non-alcoholic tequila alternatives and the intricacies of trademark litigation within the spirits industry. Discover Lucas’s expert take on these critical issues and learn more about the future direction of tequila and spirits."

Dope Follows: @deric_cahill @delcielodejalisco
Rumproject.com

Stories: 
1) Clase Azul V. Casa Azul Trademark Case
2) 2024: The year of Rum

https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2024/04/clase-azul-loses-trademark-case-against-casa-azul/#:~:text=A%20judge%20has%20dismissed%20Clase,operating%20under%20their%20respective%20names.&text=The%20maker%20of%20Clase%20Azul,brand%20names%20would%20cause%20confusion.

https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2024/04/is-2024-the-year-rum-explodes-in-gtr/

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Featuring special guest Lucas Assis, this podcast covers the nuances of non-alcoholic tequila alternatives and the intricacies of trademark litigation within the spirits industry. Discover Lucas’s expert take on these critical issues and learn more about the future direction of tequila and spirits.

In part 1 of this episode Lucas and the guys catch about Lucas' explosion on social media and his career as a content creator focusing on agave spirits.

@TheLucasassis

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