The Whiskey Ring Podcast

Bats, Bees, and Bushels - Farm Distilling in Georgia

For my first "visit" to Georgia, I wanted to find somewhere that felt truly of the land. You can't do better than Doc Brown Farm & Distillers. Georgia terroir, farming their own heritage corn (Jimmy Red!) and getting whatever they can't grow themselves locally, even Georgia barrels. It's all about Georgia, and it's all about the sense of place. 

Amy Brown, her son Dan, and Amy's partner Paige Dockweiler (the "Doc" in Doc Brown) founded Doc Brown in 2019, inspired by an article on Jimmy Red corn in Garden & Gun magazine. Jimmy Red is most known today for use by High Wire Distilling (a recent Whiskey Ring Podcast guest!), but it was in fact grown originally in Georgia before going nearly extinct. Farming is in both families' DNA, stretching as far back as 1816 in the US, and despite day jobs as banker, RN, and pilot, the farm is where all three felt they really belonged. 

Doc Brown is about Georgia and partnership. Inspired by collaborative brands such as Bardstown Bourbon Company and Barrell, the team has created a simple yet strong set of bourbons that reflect their heritage. Uncle Bogue (cask strength), Effie Jewel (92 proof), and the upcoming Resurrection Red all play on the family histories and gorgeous Jimmy Red corn. Seriously - the kernels look like pomegranate seeds, little garnet jewels. 

Jimmy Red gives you one harvest per year, and with one crop, annual yields can vary widely. Off-season crop rotations ensure the land isn't overworked, and bees and bats pollinate and keep away pests naturally. Once the corn reaches optimal moisture (~14%), it's run through the mill, fermented, and distilled within 48-72 hours. This is the spirit of true farm distilling, with the only caveat being more partnership: distillation is done at the Distillery of Modern Art, still in-state. Amy is passionate about farming and taking care of the land, and that passion emanates from her during this interview. I hope you enjoy hearing it as much as I enjoyed the conversation!

Thank you to Amy for entering the Whiskey Ring!

Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS

Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up! 

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If you haven’t joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring

There are six (6) spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level. These are the last 6 spots that will ever be opened without a current member retiring - if you've been waiting, now's the time! 

If you haven’t yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website. 

Doc Brown Farm and Distillers

Italy, Nashville, and Danville Enter The Distilling Ring

In this episode of the Whiskey Ring Podcast, I had the pleasure of welcoming Francesco Viola, the founder of Luca Mariano Distillery, to discuss his journey in the world of distilling. Francesco's story is deeply rooted in his family's Italian heritage, which adds a unique flavor to his approach to bourbon production.

We kicked off the conversation by exploring the origins of Luca Mariano Distillery, tracing back to Francesco's great-grandfather, Baldassare Viola, who began distilling in the early 1900s. His journey took him from Italy to America, and later to Ontario, Canada, where he ran a distilling operation during Prohibition. Francesco shared how this rich family history inspired him to pursue distilling himself, starting in his garage in Michigan before transitioning to a licensed operation in 2013.

Francesco recounted his early days of distilling, including a soft launch in Nashville and the eventual decision to move to Kentucky, where he found the perfect property in Danville. We discussed the significance of the land, which has a storied past in distilling, and how it influenced the design of the distillery and rickhouse. The rickhouse, modeled after a tobacco barn (and a three-tier cake), features innovative airflow designs that enhance the aging process of the whiskey such as massive numbers of windows.

As we delved deeper into the distillery's operations, Francesco highlighted the importance of using high-quality ingredients and traditional methods, combined with modern technology. He emphasized the role of his team, including master distiller David Phillips and chemist Amanda Kaufman, both of whom bring extensive experience from renowned distilleries such as Beam and Maker's Mark. Their collaboration aims to push the boundaries of bourbon production while maintaining the integrity of the craft.

We also touched on the recent transition to using Kelvin Cooperage barrels, which Francesco believes will elevate the quality of their whiskey. ISC provided barrels for many years, and Francesco was clear the transition isn't about the barrel quality, it's about the more intimate B2C relationship that's possible with Kelvin. He explained how the craftsmanship of these barrels, along with the unique design of the rickhouse, will contribute to a richer flavor profile and better yield.

Throughout the episode, Francesco's passion for distilling and commitment to quality were evident. He shared his vision for the distillery, which includes not only producing exceptional bourbon but also creating a welcoming environment for visitors, infused with Italian hospitality.

As we wrapped up our conversation, I was left inspired by Francesco's journey and the exciting future of Luca Mariano Distillery. This episode is a testament to the power of heritage, innovation, and the art of distilling, and I can't wait to see how Francesco continues to shape the bourbon landscape in Kentucky.

Thank you to Francesco for entering the Whiskey Ring!

Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS

Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up! 

_________________________________________________________

If you haven’t joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring

There are six (6) spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level. These are the last 6 spots that will ever be opened without a current member retiring - if you've been waiting, now's the time! 

If you haven’t yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website. 

Luca Mariano Distillery

Whiskey in Wyoming, via Nevada and NorCal

It's been nearly 20 years since I visited Wyoming, and I still remember it as one of the most beautiful places in the US. The least populous state, with multitudes more cattle and sheep than people, it is nonetheless one of astounding natural beauty, where small towns abound and you know your neighbors and who's growing your grain. 

This was the place Chad Brown wanted to bring his family. After years in Nevada working for the Gaming Commission and a small brewing hobby in his garage, a conversation with his cousin brought up the question: if they were making pennies on a batch of barley, where was the money going? There were so many breweries - what about starting a distillery?

Tasting notes for this episode

There's a long thread to explore there, but the key is this: Chad moved to Pine Bluffs, WY, in the southeast corner by the capital, Cheyenne, a town with "more elevation than people." Over the last decade, he and his team have founded and grown Pine Bluffs Distilling into a destination and a grain-to-glass distillery working with local farmers (we're talking between 15-25 miles away from the farm depending on the year's crops). 

Bourbon, rye, single malt, oated bourbon, oat whiskey, finishes, playing with the flavoring grains to see what would happen, all of it is here. Chad's passion vibrates out of him when he talks, and it's easy to see why Pine Bluffs has a bright future. When your founder cares, it flows to the team and to the guests. It was truly a pleasure to have this be the first distillery I talk to in Wyoming, and thank you to Chad for entering the Whiskey Ring!

Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS

Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up! 

_________________________________________________________

If you haven’t joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring

There are six (6) spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level. These are the last 6 spots that will ever be opened without a current member retiring - if you've been waiting, now's the time! 

If you haven’t yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website. 

Pine Bluffs Distilling

Makers, Not Fakers: Phil Brandon on Craft Distilling in Little Rock, Arkansas

In this episode of the Whiskey Ring Podcast, I am thrilled to welcome Phil Brandon, the founder and distiller of Rock Town Distillery in Little Rock, Arkansas. As the first legal distillery in the state since before Prohibition, Rock Town emphasizes the importance of local sourcing and building a distillery that reflects the character of Arkansas, despite the challenges of being a pioneer in a state not traditionally known for distilling.

We delve into the craft distilling renaissance and how the landscape has evolved since Rock Town's founding in 2010. Phil discusses the significance of their unofficial motto, "We're makers, not fakers," and the commitment to quality and authenticity that drives their production. He also highlights the historical context of distilling in Arkansas, the challenges of sourcing local ingredients, and the meticulous care that goes into their distillation process, including proofing and filtration techniques.

Finally, we explore Rock Town's future, including a collaboration with Bardstown Bourbon Company which began during the pandemic and has allowed Phil and the team to expand production while maintaining the integrity of the brand. He candidly addresses the differences in flavor profiles between the distillate produced in Little Rock and that made at Bardstown, emphasizing the creation of a separate product line to distinguish these offerings. This episode is a deep dive into the world of craft distilling, showcasing the Rock Town team's passion and commitment to quality in every bottle.

Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS

Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up! 

_________________________________________________________

If you haven’t joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring

There are six (6) spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level. These are the last 6 spots that will ever be opened without a current member retiring - if you've been waiting, now's the time! 

If you haven’t yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website. 

Rock Town Distillery

Jimmy Red Corn And We Should All Care! 

In this episode of the Whiskey Ring Podcast, I welcome Scott Blackwell, co-founder of High Wire Distilling in Charleston, South Carolina. The conversation dives into Scott's diverse entrepreneurial background, which spans restaurants, coffee, and packaged foods, before transitioning into the spirits industry. Scott shares how his passion for flavor and culture led him to distilling, despite initially having little interest in spirits due to South Carolina's restrictive mini bottle laws. He emphasizes the importance of agriculture in crafting unique flavors, which ultimately shaped High Wire's identity.

The discussion then shifts to the distillery's signature grain, Jimmy Red corn, which has become synonymous with High Wire's brand. Scott recounts the journey of discovering Jimmy Red, a variety known for its rich flavor profile and historical significance as a moonshiner's corn. He explains how their initial experiments with heirloom white corn didn't yield the desired results, prompting a search for a more flavorful alternative. With the guidance of heirloom grain expert Glenn Roberts and Johnny Appleseed of American Distilling Dave Pickerell, Scott and his team found that Jimmy Red not only provided a unique taste but also contributed to a distinctive oil cap during fermentation, enhancing the overall flavor of their whiskey.

As the episode wraps up, Scott reflects on the challenges and rewards of crafting spirits that tell a story rooted in their local agriculture and culinary heritage. He discusses the potential for releasing a white whiskey made from Jimmy Red, highlighting the growing interest in showcasing the unique characteristics of this heirloom corn. The conversation underscores the importance of authenticity and quality in the craft spirits industry, as High Wire Distilling continues to carve out its niche in the competitive whiskey landscape.

Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS

Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up! 

_________________________________________________________

If you haven’t joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring

There are no more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level, but you can email me if you're interested and I will let you know as soon as a spot opens!

If you haven’t yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website. 

High Wire Distilling Co.

The Monogram and the Wettest Block: Kansas City's Distilling Heritage

In this episode of the Whiskey Ring Podcast, we’re heading down to Kansas City, Missouri, to chat with Ryan Maybee, the co-founder of J. Rieger & Company. Ryan takes us on a journey from his early days as a bartender to the exciting revival of the historic J. Rieger brand, which originally flourished from 1887 until Prohibition put a stop to it all.

We kick things off by discussing how the focus of Ryan's interviews has shifted over the years—from cocktail culture to the innovative whiskeys now coming out of J. Rieger. He dives into the unique terroir of Kansas City and how it plays a crucial role in their whiskey production, including their straight bourbon, bottled-in-bond bourbon, bottled-in-bond rye, and the fascinating Monogram whiskey, which features sherry—a nod to the blending practices of yesteryear.

We also explore the rich whiskey history of Kansas City before Prohibition, the nuances of state laws affecting the spirits industry, and the distinction between Missouri bourbon and Kansas City whiskey. Ryan shares the story of how they navigated the TTB to establish Kansas City whiskey as a recognized category, highlighting their commitment to honoring the brand's roots while pushing the envelope in modern whiskey-making.

As we wrap up, Ryan gives us a peek into the production process at J. Rieger, their upcoming 10th anniversary celebration, and what the future holds for the brand. This episode is a captivating exploration of the intersection of history, innovation, and the craft of whiskey-making in Kansas City. So grab a glass, sit back, and enjoy the ride!

Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS

Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up! 

_________________________________________________________

If you haven’t joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring

There are no more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level, but you can email me if you're interested and I will let you know as soon as a spot opens!

If you haven’t yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website. 

J. Rieger & Co. Distillery

Join us as we delve into the captivating story of Southern Grace Distilleries, one of North Carolina's most unique bourbon producers, with Thomas Thacker. Celebrating their 10th anniversary, Thomas shares the remarkable journey of crafting their signature Conviction bourbon. Learn about their distinctive Piedmont-style mash bill and the innovative Whiskey Prison tasting experience that beautifully blends history and innovation.

In this episode, we explore the intricate art and science behind crafting Conviction bourbon, including the decision to use a lower barrel entry proof to enhance flavor. Discover how mash bills, Cooperage profiles, and environmental factors all play a role in the aging process. Thomas also reveals the community's crucial role in their growth and the transformation of a former prison into a storied distillery, adding depth and authenticity to their brand.

Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS

Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up! 

_________________________________________________________

If you haven’t joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring

There are no more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level, but you can email me if you're interested and I will let you know as soon as a spot opens!

If you haven’t yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website. 

Southern Grace Distilleries

In this episode of the Whiskey Ring Podcast, we venture into uncharted territory as we explore the low country of South Carolina. My guest is Chris Crowe, the President of Burnt Church Distillery, located in Bluffton, South Carolina, near Hilton Head. Chris shares the fascinating story behind the distillery, its unique location, and the rich history and culture that influence their craft.

Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS

Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up! 

• BAXUS Website

_________________________________________________________

If you haven’t joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring

There is 1 more spot available at the $25/month bottle share club level. 

If you haven’t yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website. 

Burnt Church Distillery

• Burnt Church Distillery Website

New Riff Sour Mash Single Malt Enters Its Second Batch

Join us as we welcome the singular Jay Erisman, co-founder of New Riff Distillery. From his beginnings as a fine spirits manager at the renowned Party Source to collaborating on innovative projects with Buffalo Trace and Four Roses, Jay's story is one of passion and ingenuity. Together with Ken Lewis, Jay turned a serendipitous moment into the creation of New Riff Distillery, a hub of creative whiskey production known for its experimental releases like the Backsetter series.

More info on the Single Malt: https://www.newriffdistilling.com/single-malt/

Discover the art and science behind New Riff's single malt whiskey – now celebrating its second batch – where traditional techniques meet groundbreaking experimentation. Jay reveals the distillery's use of both new charred oak and a variety of used barrels, such as Portuguese brandy and Oloroso sherry, to craft complex and intriguing whiskey expressions. Inspired by Scottish traditions yet distinctly American, New Riff's creations push the boundaries of flavor, offering a peated malt whiskey that stands as a testament to their inventive spirit and dedication to crafting bold and flavorful spirits suited for diverse proof preferences.

Explore the future of craft whiskey with insights into New Riff's upcoming releases and the art of whiskey blending. Learn how pioneering distilleries like Springbank and innovators like Compass Box inspire New Riff's approach to blending different malt whiskeys and cask types. With exciting prospects like whiskey number six, the Chevalier, and Paolo Cortado sherry casks on the horizon, New Riff continues to captivate whiskey enthusiasts with rich, smoky expressions that intrigue both bourbon and scotch lovers. Tune in to experience the harmonious balance of tradition and innovation that defines New Riff's unique approach to whiskey-making.

Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS

Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up! 

• BAXUS Website

Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery 

• Black Button Distilling Website

_________________________________________________________

If you haven’t joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring

There is 1 more spot available at the $25/month bottle share club level. 

If you haven’t yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website. 

New Riff Distillery

• New Riff Distillery Website

Sebastian Bunford-Jones, Global Marketing Manager for Glasgow Distillery, joins us for an engaging chat about the resurgence of whisky-making in this iconic city. We explore the distillery's bold journey as Glasgow's first new independent single malt producer in over a century and their mission to celebrate the city's rich heritage with a modern twist. From reviving traditional whisky-making with a contemporary spirit to crafting a diverse range of spirits, including gin, vodka, and rum, Sebastian unravels the exciting story behind their innovative approach and commitment to quality.

Quality takes precedence over tourism at Glasgow Distillery, where the team focuses on unique whisky expressions that blend tradition with creativity. We delve into the intricacies of whisky production, from distillation techniques to cask selection and the impact of yeast strains on flavor. Highlighting their successful launch of the 1770 Whisky, Sebastian shares insights into the distillery's strategic expansion efforts, including investment in skilled personnel and premium casks, ensuring excellence in every bottle, while planning to enhance visitor experiences as the distillery grows.

Explore the distillery's meticulous design and branding strategy, which weaves together Glasgow's architectural essence and community spirit. With an eye on the global market, Glasgow Distillery is crafting exceptional spirits that resonate with both local and international audiences. Discover how their diversified portfolio, including the introduction of Banditti rum, broadens market appeal, all while maintaining accessibility and transparency. As we wrap up, Sebastian offers a sneak peek into their upcoming small batch series set for release, showcasing the distillery's relentless innovation and dedication to crafting outstanding products.

Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS

Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up! 

• BAXUS Website

Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery 

• Black Button Distilling Website

_________________________________________________________

If you haven’t joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring

There is 1 more spot available at the $25/month bottle share club level. 

If you haven’t yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website. 

Glasgow Distillery

• Glasgow Distillery Website