Dawn Davies, the buying director for The Whiskey Exchange, talks to Gavin about the modern whiskey market and raises issues such as overcharging customers, releasing substandard, non-age statement liquid, and using excessive packaging that shifts focus from the product to "pomp and ceremony."

She also highlighted a concern that the market prioritizes "flippers" over long-term customer loyalty. Despite the need for an industry "reset," both speakers agreed that its core strength remains the value of people and unique experiences, which Dawn exemplified by sharing memorable "pinch me moments," including attending the Cannes Film Festival.

Gavin Linde welcomed Brandon Smith, the National Brand Activation Manager for Lofted Spirits, shared their professional background and their introduction to whiskey, emphasizing the importance of memories and friendships in whiskey appreciation.

They discussed the evolution of the whiskey industry, Bardstown Bourbon Company's unique approach, and the collaborative and innovative culture within the company, culminating in a discussion of the current state and future of the whiskey industry, including the Kentucky Bourbon Festival and specific Bardstown releases.

Gavin Linde and Chris Blandford discussed the significant changes in the whiskey market, highlighting a new era where consumers are more educated and prioritize quality.

This shift has also brought challenges, particularly with barrel picks, where palate fatigue makes thorough assessment difficult.

Starlight Distillery was praised for its innovative and passionate approach, distinguishing it from larger companies. Chris Blandford also detailed Kroger's fair allocation system for Pappy Van Winkle and unique whiskey experiences.

Gavin Linde introduced Lars Rucker from Hong Kong, known for Tiffany's Bar and the Hong Kong Whiskey Festival, as a guest on the Rolex Whiskey podcast.

Lars discussed the evolution of the whiskey scene in Hong Kong and China, the growth of Tiffany's New York Bar's whiskey selection, and the significant development of the Hong Kong Whiskey Festival since its inception in 2016.

They also talk about the transformation of the whiskey market, the unique whiskey culture in Hong Kong, and the importance of personal connections in the whiskey world.

Gavin celebrates the milestone of 100 episodes by welcoming a special guest: Dan McKee, Master Distiller at Michter's Distillery. McKee, a longtime friend and industry peer, shares his journey into the world of whiskey, beginning with casual sips as a young man before embarking on a 13-year career in commercial roofing. His path shifted dramatically when he took a job as a distillery operator at Jim Beam, where he gained invaluable experience for nine years, witnessing the industry's resurgence and the dawn of automation.

McKee reflects on joining the Michter's team in 2014 as employee number eight and the unique, hands-on approach to whiskey making that defines the brand. He highlights the importance of relationships and the dedication of the entire team, which he says is the reason Michter's has been recognized as the most admired whiskey in the world for two consecutive years.

Gavin Linde welcomed Benjamin Rosen to the Rolex Whiskey Passion Project, acknowledging their long-standing relationship and Benjamin's launch of Onyx and Amber.

Benjamin shared insights into the evolving whiskey market, detailing the shift from abundant choices to inflated prices and their personal investment in MGP barrels.

Benjamin Rosen explained that Onyx and Amber is a long-term, independent bottling project focused on quality and affordability, utilizing a unique aging process in Colorado and planning a "Blender series" with award-winning blenders.

Gavin Linde welcomed Andreas Lykke, founder of the Daily Whisky. Andreas shared their journey into whiskey, highlighting their focus on challenging traditional perceptions and reaching a younger audience through daily content on "the Daily Whiskey" Instagram. Gavin and Andreas discussed experiences visiting distilleries, adapting to Instagram's algorithm changes, and revealed that "Daily Whisky" is a family project. Andreas recommended Talisker 18-year-old and Clynelish, and they shared their future plans for attending Formula 1 events and visiting distilleries in Asia.

Gavin Linde and his guest Diego Lanza discuss the Hong Kong Whiskey Festival and Lanza's whiskey journey. Diego Lanza recounted their early exposure to whiskey in Italy, their move to London to specialize in whiskey, and their significant career progression at The Whiskey Exchange as an old and rare whiskey curator.

Gavin and Diego also discussed the evolution of sherry casks in whiskey production, the unique whiskey scene in Hong Kong, and Diego Lanza's new ventures, OBBE and Elixir Distillers distribution.

Gavin Linde interviews Peter Currie of Shand Import about his 25 years in the whiskey industry. Peter Currie discussed his journey, beginning with following his father into the industry, working for Line Whisies, and then spending eight years at Springbank Distillery where he was involved in all aspects of production and eventually became the sales and marketing director. He then moved to California in 2012 to work with Duncan Taylor before co-founding Shand Import.

They explored the evolution of the whiskey market and pricing since the early 2000s, with Peter recalling selling rare bottlings for what were then considered high prices, and how collecting was initially driven by personal preference rather than investment. The conversation also touched on the shift from one-way communication to online forums and the impact of increasing global demand, particularly from Asia, on prices for vintage whiskies.

Peter also explained the appeal of independent bottlers, describing them as offering a taste of the individual "ingredients" that go into distillery blends. He shared memorable whiskey experiences, including tastings in St. Petersburg and Moscow, and evenings in Bordeaux and Singapore, emphasizing the enjoyable social aspect of sharing whiskey and the nostalgia associated with older bottles.

Gavin Linde welcomes back Daryl Proof about his take on the whiskey market, specifically independent bottlers, and unique whisky barrels.

They shared barrel picking experiences, including an unplanned large pick with Prov, and talked about whisky consumption, high-proof whiskys, and tasting notes from picks like Locust Dream.

They also discussed barrel pricing, market hype, and future events, with Daryl aiming for three events per year and planning more barrel picks. Gavin praised Daryl Proof and his whisky cases. They emphasized the unique experience of picking independent whisky barrels.