Richard and So-Han welcome special guest Mike Groener of Creador Spirits and Bar Singular at West China Tea for an enlightening discussion about mezcal, traditional tea, and the fascinating parallels between these two artisanal beverages. In this episode, we explore the complexities of clay-distilled mezcal from San Bernardo Mixtepec, paired with a smoky 2019 wild Tianjian fermented tea from Hunan, China.

We welcome Brian Killavey of Killco Mental Musings to West China Tea for a different kind of episode. Recently stepping back from whiskey due to health concerns, Brian shares his journey of transitioning his content focus while maintaining his passion for spirits through nosing and tasting. Together, we explore a unique whiskey barrel-aged Sheng Pu'er tea, discussing its complex flavors and the fascinating parallels between tea and whiskey appreciation.

We welcome whiskey expert Cliff Smith, a respected instructor and mentor in the whiskey community, for a special tasting at West China Tea. Today we're exploring the pairing of Malac Phoenix, a luxurious "cashmere of red teas," with Highland Park 12, discussing how this approachable peated scotch serves as a perfect gateway into smoky whiskies.

We welcome back our first repeat guest, Stephen Caronna from Compass Box Whiskymaker, for a special tasting at West China Tea. Today we're exploring the perfect pairing of a rare aged Phoenix Mountain green tea with two exciting new releases from Compass Box's revamped core lineup: Nectarosity and Crimson Cask.

Our conversation weaves between whisky and tea expertise, with Stephen sharing fascinating insights into Compass Box's innovative barrel-making process and their commitment to natural coloring. So-Han introduces us to an unusual aged green tea that surprises everyone with its unique characteristics. Together, we discover delightful flavor connections between the drinks, particularly noting how well the aged tea complements Crimson Cask's wine-influenced profile.

Fresh from the Bastards Ball festival, we share entertaining festival stories and dive into broader discussions about spirits packaging, marketing, and the art of blending. Whether you're a whisky enthusiast, tea lover, or both, this episode offers an engaging exploration of craft beverages and the stories behind them.

⸺ credits ⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺

Richard Amiro - host http://richardamiro.com

So-Han Fan - guest https://www.youtube.com/@TeaHouseGhost - https://westchinatea.com/

Cory Cranfill - a really helpful guy  https://youtube.com/@shedlogic - https://www.righttoolmedia.com

Stephen Caronna - guest

Compass Box Scotch Whiskymaker https://www.compassboxwhisky.com/ - https://www.instagram.com/stephen.caronna/

⸺ socials ⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺

Website: https://whiskeyprovisioner.com/Twitter: https://twitter.com/WhiskeyProvisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@whiskeyprovisioner

Ever wondered how sotol is made? Dive into the world of Desert Door Distilling with Brent Looby as he shares insights into their unique distillation techniques, innovative aging process, and the aromatic profiles of their distinctive spirits. Plus, learn about the challenges of building a craft spirits brand and the importance of environmental stewardship.

Richard Amiro - host http://richardamiro.com

So-Han Fan - guest https://www.youtube.com/@TeaHouseGhost - https://westchinatea.com/

Cory Cranfill - a really helpful guy https://youtube.com/@shedlogic - https://www.righttoolmedia.com

Guest - Brent Looby from Desert Door Distilling https://www.desertdoor.com/ https://www.instagram.com/desertdoor/ https://www.youtube.com/@UCZE2NSMUKwG0GQl0G7ZMp5Q

⸺ socials ⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺

Website: https://whiskeyprovisioner.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@whiskeyprovisioner

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WhiskeyProvisioner

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiskey_provisioner

Twitter: https://twitter.com/WhiskeyProvis

Whiskey Provisioner Meets Texas Whiskey Geek at West China Tea

Ever heard of Sotol? It's a unique Mexican spirit distilled from a desert plant, and it's got a fascinating story. Join Richard and So-Han as they chat with Brent Looby of Desert Door Distilling, who's passionate about sharing this hidden gem with the world. He'll explain how sotol is made, what makes it different from tequila and mezcal, and why it pairs so well with...Chinese tea? That's right, Brent also dives into his travels in China, exploring the unexpected connections between these two ancient beverages. Plus, they'll discuss the challenges and rewards of running a craft distillery and the importance of community in the beverage world.

Tea & Whiskey: A Match Made in Flavor Heaven

Join Richard and So-Han at West China Tea as they welcome back Chris from 10th Mountain Whiskey for another exciting round of tea and whiskey pairings!

In this episode:

So-Han introduces a special Shu Pu'erh tea, a fermented variety known for its earthy and complex flavors.

Chris shares 10th Mountain Whiskey's Single Malt, both the standard release and a unique single barrel selection.

Discover the surprising harmony between the rich, mushroomy notes of Shu Pu'erh and the sweet, fruity character of the single malt.

Delve into the art of barrel aging and its impact on both tea and whiskey.

Hear heartwarming stories about whiskey's ability to create lasting memories and connect people.

Learn about 10th Mountain Whiskey's dedication to supporting veterans and their philanthropic initiatives.

So-Han shares his perspective on the importance of pursuing passions and living life to the fullest.

Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with laughter, insightful pairings, and a celebration of the human spirit.⸺ credits ⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺

Tea & Whiskey Pairings: 10th Mountain Rye & Sheng Pu'er from a Whiskey Barrel

Chris showcases 10th Mountain's award-winning rye whiskey, both the standard release and a special single barrel 10th anniversary edition.

Join us at West China Tea for a unique tasting experience as we explore the connection between whiskey and tea! We're joined by Christopher Rice from 10th Mountain Whiskey, who shares the captivating history of the 10th Mountain Division and how their legacy inspires their craft.

Discover:

The heartwarming story behind 10th Mountain Whiskey and its connection to the brave soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division.

The unique challenges and rewards of distilling whiskey at high altitudes in Colorado.

The art of tea brewing and how it mirrors the craft of whiskey making.

The importance of sharing experiences and creating memories over a good drink.

Highlights:

So-Han brews a special red tea called Gamma Ray, a purple tea variety, and expertly guides us through its preparation.

Chris introduces us to 10th Mountain's 75% blue corn bourbon, a whiskey with unique flavor notes and a heartwarming backstory.

We delve into the world of flavor, discussing the nuances of blue corn, rye, and the influence of different grains on whiskey and tea.

So-Han and Chris share personal stories and memories evoked by specific whiskey and tea experiences.

Richard emphasizes the importance of community and shared experiences in enjoying whiskey and tea.

Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with history, flavor, and the shared passion for craft beverages!

⸺ credits ⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺