The Whiskey Ring Podcast

Bonus Episode 9: Jay Erisman of New Riff Talks Sour Mash Single Malt

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 everyone for listening, and thank you to Jay 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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Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery 
Black Button Distilling Website
Black Button Distilling on Facebook
Black Button Distilling on Instagram
_________________________________________________________
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
New Riff Distillery on Instagram
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New Riff Distillery on YouTube

Ep. 163: Glasgow Distillery with Sebastian Bunford-Jones

From 1770 to Today: The Return of Distilling in Glasgow
 
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 everyone for listening, and thank you to Sebastian 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! 
BAXUS Website
BAXUS on Instagram
BAXUS on Facebook
BAXUS on Twitter/X
BAXUS on LinkedIn
Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery 
Black Button Distilling Website
Black Button Distilling on Facebook
Black Button Distilling on Instagram
_________________________________________________________
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
Glasgow Distillery on Instagram
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Glasgow Distillery on LinkedIn

Ep. 162: The Family Jones with Jamie Burns

Heritage Grains, Modern Spirits, and a Craft Cocktail Revolution in Colorado
In this episode, we explore the unique landscape of craft distilling in Colorado with Jamie Burns, the innovative lead distiller at The Family Jones Distillery. Jamie's journey is one of blending tradition with cutting-edge techniques, drawing from his extensive education, including a Master of Science in Brewing and Distilling from Heriot-Watt, and his experiences at Michigan State University. Discover how his background in biosystems engineering and his passion for food and beverage have shaped his approach to distilling.
We dive deep into the use of unconventional grains, such as naked barley and heritage Oland wheat, and the collaborative efforts with local farmers and malting partners that drive The Family Jones' commitment to sustainability and flavor innovation. Learn about the challenges and triumphs in the distillation process, as well as the importance of maintaining a strong local presence while gradually expanding.
The episode also delves into the art of branding, highlighting the stories and symbolism behind product names like Atticus Jones whiskey. Jamie shares insights into their organic growth strategy and community engagement efforts that embody the true spirit of Colorado. Join us for an inspiring conversation on how tradition and innovation come together in every bottle from The Family Jones Distillery.
Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Jamie 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! 
BAXUS Website
BAXUS on Instagram
BAXUS on Facebook
BAXUS on Twitter/X
BAXUS on LinkedIn
Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery 
Black Button Distilling Website
Black Button Distilling on Facebook
Black Button Distilling on Instagram
_________________________________________________________
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. 
The Family Jones
The Family Jones Website
The Family Jones on Instagram
The Family Jones on Facebook
The Family Jones on LinkedIn

Ep. 161: A New Era for Canadian Whisky with Nick Taylor of Found North

Redefining Canadian Whisky And Mash Bills vs Grain Bills
Nick Taylor is no stranger to blending - he hit 40 Scottish distilleries in 30 days pretending to be a whisky writer (and no, I asked, he wasn't caught!), and has since visited Ireland, Japan, and most of the distilleries in Kentucky, not to mention Canada. Bottom line, he knows that you don't have to distill to create something exceptional. 
In creating Found North with his partners, Nick is taking on a monumental task - redefining Canadian whisky for an American market conditioned to see Canadian as lesser, inferior, or just plain bad. The big brands don't do themselves any favors, but then again they don't have much incentive (we get into that), so it's up to the small guys like Found North to crack that nut. 
In a fascinating exploration of the art and science of whisky blending, Nick reveals how synesthesia and musical influences spark creativity in crafting harmonious blends, from classical to funky things even I had never heard of before. We delve into techniques for balancing flavors and how strategic buying and aging of whisky components allow Found North to create and fill a new niche. Throughout the episode, personal anecdotes and insights from Nick offer an engaging and enlightening look at the passion and expertise that drive Found North's unique journey in the whiskey world.
Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Nick 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! 
BAXUS Website
BAXUS on Instagram
BAXUS on Facebook
BAXUS on Twitter/X
BAXUS on LinkedIn
Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery 
Black Button Distilling Website
Black Button Distilling on Facebook
Black Button Distilling on Instagram
_________________________________________________________
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. 
Found North Whisky
Found North Whisky Website
Found North Whisky on Instagram
Found North Whisky on Facebook
Found North Whisky on LinkedIn

Ep. 160: Boann Distillery with Alex Witt

An Innovative Copper Method and An Oregonian Distiller in Ireland
Join me on this episode to Ireland's Boyne Valley, where we explore the historic and picturesque Brú na Bóinne and the modern Boann Distillery. I sit down with Alex Witt, the head distiller at Boann, who shares his captivating journey from the United States to Ireland and his immersion into the Irish whiskey industry. Alex takes us through the Cooney family's transition from brewing craft beer to creating whiskey, highlighting their passion for the drinks industry and the intimate, collaborative atmosphere of working in a family-run business. Discover the innovative and state-of-the-art facilities at Boann, which are housed in a repurposed car dealership, and get a sneak peek at their exciting new PX cask finish whiskey.
In our conversation, we delve into the unique distillation techniques and sustainability initiatives at Boann Distillery. Alex provides insight into the application of nanotechnology in their distillation process, the historical significance of copper in whiskey production, and the potential for new whiskey releases pending regulatory changes. We also touch on Boann's commitment to environmental sustainability, plans for expansion, and their multifaceted visitor experience. With a rich discussion on maturation experiments and the use of diverse casks, this episode is a must-listen for whiskey enthusiasts and those interested in innovative production methods.
Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Alex 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! 
BAXUS Website
BAXUS on Instagram
BAXUS on Facebook
BAXUS on Twitter/X
BAXUS on LinkedIn
Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery 
Black Button Distilling Website
Black Button Distilling on Facebook
Black Button Distilling on Instagram
_________________________________________________________
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. 
Boann Distillery
Boann Distillery Website
Boann Distillery on Instagram
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Boann Distillery on LinkedIn
Boann Distillery on X
Boann Distillery on YouTube

Ep. 159: In The Welsh Wind with Ellen Wakelam

From Teachers to Distillers on the Longest Hike in Wales
Ever wondered what it takes to leave behind a steady career and venture into uncharted territory? Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of Ellen Wakelam and her partner Alexander, who transformed their lives from a geography teacher and a baker to becoming founders of In the Welsh Wind Distillery. Ellen narrates their story, filled with adventurous walks around Wales and a life-changing trip to Scotland, culminating in the creation of a distillery that quickly gained momentum since its inception in 2018. We delve into their diverse spirit production, including gin, vodka, rum, and the burgeoning development of Welsh whisky.
Our conversation also touches on the ambitious expansion into whisky production and the significance of creating an authentic Welsh whisky using locally grown grain. Ellen's passion shines through as she talks about their first whisky release and the excitement surrounding future batches. We explore the collaborative efforts to achieve Protected Geographical Indicator (PGI) status for Welsh whisky, emphasizing the unity and shared vision within the Welsh distilling community. Tune in to hear Ellen's dedication to tradition, quality, and the local community, and get a glimpse into the future of In the Welsh Wind Distillery.
Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Ellen 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! 
BAXUS Website
BAXUS on Instagram
BAXUS on Facebook
BAXUS on Twitter/X
BAXUS on LinkedIn
Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery 
Black Button Distilling Website
Black Button Distilling on Facebook
Black Button Distilling on Instagram
_________________________________________________________
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. 
In The Welsh Wind
In The Welsh Wind Website
In The Welsh Wind on Instagram
In The Welsh Wind on Facebook
In The Welsh Wind on LinkedIn

Ep. 158: From Kentucky to Liverpool: The Birth of Never Say Die Spirits with Brian Luffman

From Derby Winner to Whiskey Namesake (and the Beatles, too!)
I sit down with Brian Luffman, co-founder of Never Say Die Spirits, to delve into the transatlantic journey that birthed their unique bourbon brand. We kick things off with the riveting tale of a horse named Never Say Die, whose life-saving shot of whiskey led to an improbable Epsom Derby win and ultimately funded a Liverpool music venue where the future Beatles first performed. Brian’s passion for honoring this remarkable legacy through their whiskey-making process is clearly evident throughout the episode.
You've got custom mashbills made at a distillery in Danville, Kentucky (though they can't say where, I hint strongly at it), with partners on both sides of the Atlantic. It's easy enough to start a brand nowadays, but not everyone does it from scratch with their own mashbills and yeasts. Add in the complexities of both Kentucky and English aging and a transatlantic journey, and there's much more to this brand than meets the eye. 
Personally, I prefer the rye (so does Brian!), but both are solid pours at reasonable prices that have the extra component of a bottle designed by Stranger & Stranger, a guest on the Whiskey Ring Podcast back in Episode 74 and famous (to me) for their work with Compass Box. 
Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Brian 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! 
BAXUS Website
BAXUS on Instagram
BAXUS on Facebook
BAXUS on Twitter/X
BAXUS on LinkedIn
Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery 
Black Button Distilling Website
Black Button Distilling on Facebook
Black Button Distilling on Instagram
_________________________________________________________
If you haven’t joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring
There are 2 more spots 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. 
Never Say Die Spirits
Never Say Die Spirits Website
Never Say Die Spirits on Instagram
Never Say Die Spirits on Facebook
Never Say Die Spirits on Twitter
Never Say Die Spirits on LinkedIn

Ep. 157: St. George Spirits with Lance Winters and Dave Smith

The First Craft Distillery 
St. George Spirits launched the craft distilling movement in the US. No, that's not an overstatement. Starting with brandies and eau-de-vies, adding whiskey in 1997 and various liqueurs, gins, and other spirits along the way, St. George has steadfastly led the way while remaining true to its roots and creating ever-more-interesting things to drink. 
I'm joined by Master Distiller Lance Winters and Head Distiller Dave Smith, both long-haulers at St. George (Lance from 1997 and Dave from 2005) who have introduced the world to St. George Spirits' Baller American Single Malt, NOLA Coffee Liqueur, and Bruto Americano, among many many others. The Bruto, by the way, has become my go-to aperitif, replacing Campari and Aperol with a more intense flavor and body. 
More than anything, this interview delves into the ethos and process of St. George, how this continuously innovative distillery both keeps up with the times and leads by example. They may not be the biggest, but there's no doubt they are one of the most important. Lance and Dave are determined - and I use that word with emphasis - to make what they like, bring the drinker to them, and expand the definition of what American distilleries can do.
Thanks everyone for listening, and thank you to Lance and Dave 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! 
BAXUS Website
BAXUS on Instagram
BAXUS on Facebook
BAXUS on Twitter/X
BAXUS on LinkedIn
Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery 
Black Button Distilling Website
Black Button Distilling on Facebook
Black Button Distilling on Instagram
_________________________________________________________
If you haven’t joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring
There are 2 more spots 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. 
Lost Lantern Whiskey
Lost Lantern Whiskey Website
Lost Lantern Whiskey on Instagram
Lost Lantern Whiskey on Facebook