In this week's episode of The Whiskey Trip Podcast, Big Chief heads to New Iberia, Louisiana, to sit down with Steve and Philip Mestayer, the owners and distillers behind Distillerie Acadian. The conversation revolves around the rich Cajun culture of the region and how their distillery was born from a deep-rooted interest in the moonshine process.

Big Chief recounts a visit with Philip over five years ago, during which he offered advice on how to improve his whiskey. Philip took those suggestions to heart, making significant changes, including switching from an open flame heated still to a steam-jacketed still and moving to 53-gallon barrels. These adjustments have allowed Philip to refine his craft, resulting in a whiskey that is truly exceptional.

The episode kicks off with a tasting of their T-Moon, a unique whiskey that incorporates cane sugar into the mashbill. The addition of cane sugar gives the whiskey a remarkable sweetness that beautifully balances the bourbon notes. They then move on to sampling the 94 proof and cask strength expressions of Cajun’s Cut, Louisiana’s first bourbon. This four-grain bourbon evokes flavors of honeysuckle and salted caramel, leaving a lasting impression on Big Chief.

In the second half of the show, the trio explores the cask strength and port finish expressions of Bon Vale, an American Single Malt that pays homage to the Mestayer family's Scotch and French heritage. The unique terroir of the region imparts a distinctive spice rarely found in single malts, complemented by notes of dried fruit, blooming flowers, and rich honey.

To wrap up the episode, the Mestayers introduce Big Chief to two future expressions—a Wheated bourbon and a rye whiskey. These new whiskies reflect Philip's dedication to creating spirits that he and his consumers will love.

This episode of The Whiskey Trip is a celebration of the rich traditions and cultures that make Louisiana such a magical place.

Cheers to a memorable journey!