Bourbon Lens

Bourbon Lens
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Bourbon Lens is the podcast for every whiskey drinker. During this project, we look to explore the whiskey and bourbon industry, learn more about our favorite spirit, and interview industry insiders, makers, entrepreneurs, and business people. We welcome you on this journey with us. Bourbon Lens was founded by Jake and Scott from Louisville, Kentucky. We have grown our appreciation for Kentucky's native spirit and look to learn all that we can about every type of whiskey. We welcome you to pour a glass of whiskey and join us. We are always looking for show topics, discussion starters, and new whiskies to try. Contact us on social media or send us an email to: Info@BourbonLens.com with ideas, comments, or questions.

  1. Special Episode: United States of Bourbon with Lost Lantern

    9 hr ago

    Special Episode: United States of Bourbon with Lost Lantern

    What does America taste like in a glass? In honor of America’s 250th Semiquincentennial anniversary, independent bottler Lost Lantern Whiskey did the seemingly impossible: they sourced straight bourbon from all 50 states to create the groundbreaking "United States of Bourbon" collection. In this episode, we sit down with Adam from Lost Lantern to break down the massive logistical mountain, wild road trips, and blending wizardry required to bring this historic project to life. From tracking down micro-distilleries in states with virtually no whiskey footprint—like Hawaii and North Dakota—to navigating tricky local compliance laws, Adam shares the behind-the-scenes secrets of this 50-state sourcing marathon. We dive deep into the crown jewel of the release: the highly collectible 1776 Edition. Inspired by the original colonies, this ultra-limited blend (restricted to exactly 1,776 bottles) captures unique regional terroir and coastal salinity. Discover how Lost Lantern’s Master Blender Nora Ganley-Roper constructed a harmonious, multi-regional profile using heavy-hitting bases from historic whiskey regions like Maryland, North Carolina, and Iowa's Cedar Ridge, while maintaining complete transparency and authenticity. Whether you’re a whiskey history buff, a collector chasing cask-strength rarities, or curious about the true state of American terroir, this episode showcases how blending is elevating the American whiskey landscape to competitive new heights. Timestamps: (00:00) - Celebrating America's 250th Anniversary with Lost Lantern(00:26) - Adam’s First Father’s Day & Personal Reflections(01:06) - The Wild Vision: A Bourbon from All 50 States(02:07) - Sourcing Across the Map: Vermont to Mississippi(03:05) - Sourcing Hurdles & Maintaining 100% Transparency(04:21) - The 50-State Road Trip: Finding Whiskey in Hawaii & the Dakotas(06:02) - Navigating Tough State Compliance Markets(08:23) - Breaking Down the "1776 Edition" vs. The 50-State Collection(09:12) - Proof Breakdown & Tasting Notes: Cask Strength vs. Bottled Proof(11:15) - Nora’s Blending Process: Crafting Regional Character(12:01) - The Foundation: The Role of Cedar Ridge & Key Distilleries(15:01) - Exploring Regional Terroir & Micro-Climates(17:14) - Market Release Numbers & Early Consumer Reception(19:02) - How This Project Elevates the Art of American Blending(23:12) - Building the Intricate Base Blend for the 1776 Bottle(26:03) - Ocean Air & Salinity: Coastal Influences on the Palate(28:04) - Future Releases & Lost Lantern's Lasting Legacy 🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. 📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens 🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com Merch: https://bourbon-lens-shop.printify.me/products Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSU #bourbon #whiskey #lostlantern #americanwhiskey #craftdistillery #bourbonblend #whiskeyhistory #caskstrength #bourbonlens #whiskeypodcast

    27 min
  2. You Might Also Like: Morning Brew Daily

    9 hr ago ·  Bonus

    You Might Also Like: Morning Brew Daily

    Introducing Ultimate America 250 Trivia Game Show & Drafting July 4 Essentials from Morning Brew Daily. Follow the show: Morning Brew Daily #881: In this America250 edition, Neal and Toby tested some Morning Brew colleagues, Olivia Lake, MBD’s Associate Producer; Ethan McCarthy, Social Video Producer; and Henrik Blix, Senior Branded Video Producer, on their knowledge of America. Also, a fantasy draft of what the most essential elements are for a July 4 holiday. We need your help to vote who won the draft. Get 10% off using MORNINGBREW10 at altrarunning.com/morningbrew  Grab tickets to our Performance Revue show! https://www.morningbrew.com/events/brew-performance-revue-2026?utm_campaign=performance_revue_2026&utm_source=mbd Subscribe to Morning Brew Daily for more of the news you need to start your day. Share the show with a friend, and leave us a review on your favorite podcast app. Listen to Morning Brew Daily Here:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.swap.fm/l/mbd-note⁠⁠⁠  Watch Morning Brew Daily Here:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@MorningBrewDailyShow⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to team@podroll.fm.

  3. 389: Can WhistlePig Convert Bourbon Country to Rye? Inside "The Vault" Louisville

    5 days ago

    389: Can WhistlePig Convert Bourbon Country to Rye? Inside "The Vault" Louisville

    What happens when Vermont’s most rebellious rye whiskey brand sets up a permanent outpost directly in the heart of Bourbon Country? In this episode of Bourbon Lens, we visit The Vault by WhistlePig in Louisville, KY. We sit down with Lead Research Distiller Mitch Mahar and GM Kevin Didio to explore how they are challenging Kentucky’s bourbon dominance with bold rye innovation. Mitch shares the legacy of Dave Pickerell and breaks down their wildest blending experiments, including The Boss Hog XII: Feather & Flame—aged rye finished in pulque curado de cacao barrels with a kick of native chili peppers. Then, Kevin takes us inside their experiential vault tasting room to discuss their viral signature cocktail, The Flying Pig, which is served to guests via automated pneumatic tubes overhead! ⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 - Live from Louisville: WhistlePig’s The Vault Experience00:26 - Mitch Mahar on rye whiskey diversity and innovation01:09 - The legacy of Dave Pickerell & reviving pre-prohibition rye03:50 - Decoding The Boss Hog XII: Fermented pulque & chili peppers06:12 - Invading Kentucky: How bourbon drinkers respond to premium rye15:14 - Louisville Tourism & scouting the historic NuLu site with Kevin Didio17:26 - The Flying Pig: The viral pneumatic tube cocktail system23:19 - Behind the Heavy Door: Inside the private Vault tasting single barrels29:19 - The "Wow" Factor: Why experiential retail is the future of spirits🔗 Resources & Links:WhistlePig Whiskey WebsiteThe Vault by WhistlePig Louisville🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. 📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens 🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com 👕 Merch: https://bourbon-lens-shop.printify.me/products 💬 Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSU Hashtags#WhistlePigWhiskey #TheVaultLouisville #RyeWhiskey #BourbonLens #BossHogXII #MitchMahar #KevinDidio #WhiskeyInnovation #LouisvilleTourism #FlyingPigCocktail KeywordsWhistlePig Whiskey, The Vault Louisville, Mitch Mahar, Kevin Didio, Boss Hog XII, rye whiskey review, Dave Pickerell, pneumatic tube cocktail, Louisville whiskey trail, craft rye blending, premium whiskey, pulque finished whiskey, single barrel rye, Bourbon Lens, Bourbon Lens News

    37 min
  4. Does Red Corn Make Woodford Reserve Better?

    26 Jun

    Does Red Corn Make Woodford Reserve Better?

    What happens when you swap traditional yellow corn for a rare, deep-pigmented heirloom grain? You get one of the most unique, grain-forward releases in the history of the Bourbon Lens. In this episode, we review the newly unveiled Woodford Reserve Distillery Series: Red Corn Bourbon. Clocking in at 90.4 proof and packaged in their collectible 375ml format ($64.99 MSRP), this limited edition showcases a massive push into agricultural innovation led by Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall. The story behind this whiskey is a true testament to Kentucky terroir and pure resilience. The heirloom red corn was grown on a local farm directly adjacent to the historic distillery in Versailles, Kentucky. However, during the growing season several years ago, a massive summer storm swept through Woodford County, flattening and destroying a significant portion of the stalks. The resulting low yield means the remaining harvest—and the liquid inside this bottle—is exceptionally rare. Jake breaks down how this deep-pigmented heirloom corn shifts the flavor wheel completely away from standard Woodford sweetness into a bolder, softer, and highly savory presentation. We dive into a rich nosh of dark chocolate, spiced cherry, and green apple, followed by a warm palate medley of baking spices, tarts custard, and sun tea. Find out if this weather-damaged experiment holds its own against traditional yellow corn mash bills! ⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 - Groundbreaking Grain: Intro to Woodford Reserve's heirloom red corn innovation00:26 - The 51% Rule: Breaking down standard bourbon regulations vs. heirloom varietals00:36 - Destructive Terroir: How a massive Kentucky storm cut the crop yield and created rarity01:06 - Agricultural Chemistry: The atmospheric elements shaping modern craft distillation01:34 - Nosing the Glass: Unpacking rich notes of dark chocolate, baking spice, and green apple02:28 - Flavor Profile: Unlocking deep layers of dried cherries, toasted pecans, and mocha02:54 - First Sip: Checking approachability, tart cherry custard, and balanced wood tannins03:24 - Mid-Palate Shift: Savoring nuances of brown sugar, clove, cinnamon, and pepper03:44 - Texture & Finish: Analyzing the velvety viscosity, lingering spice, and sun tea notes04:12 - Changing the Mash Bill: Market appeal and how red corn creates a softer whiskey04:29 - Head-to-Head: Comparing Woodford Red Corn to other grain innovators like Frey Ranch04:58 - Final Thoughts: Is this limited 375ml Distillery Series release worth the hunt?05:11 - Pour Recommendations: Tailoring advice for seasoned enthusiasts vs. casual drinkers05:41 - Outro: Inviting listener feedback and wrap-up

    5 min
  5. 388: How Woodford Reserve Masters Tradition & Innovation with Elizabeth McCall

    21 Jun

    388: How Woodford Reserve Masters Tradition & Innovation with Elizabeth McCall

    Dive into the rich history, craftsmanship, and innovative spirit of Woodford Reserve in this exclusive interview with Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall. Since bursting onto the scene in 1996, Woodford Reserve has been a driving force in revitalizing the Kentucky bourbon industry and inspiring the world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail. In this episode, Elizabeth pulls back the curtain on how the iconic brand maintains its premium, complex flavor profile while remaining remarkably accessible to whiskey lovers everywhere. We explore their unique triple pot distillation process, the critical role of Kentucky limestone water, and how meticulous sensory and analytical testing ensure flawless batch consistency. Plus, get a firsthand look into the future of bourbon as Elizabeth shares details on Woodford’s cutting-edge agricultural innovations—including the Heirloom Red Corn release and the Kentucky Rye Project. Whether you're a casual fan of their signature Double Oaked or a seasoned whiskey connoisseur, this episode is packed with insights into the art and science of bourbon making. ⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 - Welcome and introduction to Elizabeth McCall, Master Distiller02:39 - History of Woodford Reserve and its role in Kentucky bourbon revitalization04:00 - The significance of water source and Kentucky's limestone influence06:33 - Innovation and leadership in premium bourbon through packaging and flavor development07:36 - Balancing luxury perception with accessible pricing08:47 - The meticulous process of quality control and batch consistency10:10 - The spectrum of flavor attributes in Woodford Reserve whiskey11:26 - Sensory profiling and the brand’s signature flavor complexity12:08 - Personal favorites and the appeal of Woodford Reserve Double Oaked13:56 - Unique distillation methods, including Irish-inspired triple pot distillation14:25 - Batch formulation and the challenge of maintaining consistency in natural products17:37 - Agricultural innovation: The Red Corn project and its flavor implications19:07 - Insights from growing heirloom varieties and the importance of farming practices20:50 - The role of grains like rye and corn in whiskey’s agricultural landscape22:48 - The master distiller's role in understanding and managing agricultural inputs24:12 - Navigating label laws, production costs, and consumer value25:36 - The breadth of Woodford Reserve’s portfolio and ongoing innovation27:07 - Future outlook: Balance between tradition, experimentation, and brand integrity28:54 - Elizabeth's legacy and aspirations for the next decade29:58 - Closing remarks and appreciation for curiosity and tradition in whiskey-making 🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. 📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens 🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com 👕 Merch: https://bourbon-lens-shop.printify.me/products 💬 Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSU

    29 min
  6. Rolling Fork’s REWCO Rye Review: Can It Match the Hype of Bourbon de Luxe? | Five Minute Fridays

    19 Jun

    Rolling Fork’s REWCO Rye Review: Can It Match the Hype of Bourbon de Luxe? | Five Minute Fridays

    Can the blending masters at Rolling Fork Spirits pull off the exact same magic with a historic rye whiskey that they did with their massive Bourbon de Luxe revival? On this episode of Five Minute Fridays, Jake Lewellen cracks open and reviews the highly anticipated REWCO 6-Year Cask Strength Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey. Clocking in at 109.4 proof and priced at an approachable $59.99 MSRP, this bottle carries some serious historical weight. Named after R. E. Wathen (Richard E. Wathen), president of American Medicinal Spirits during Prohibition, REWCO is a brand resurrected straight out of the Wathen family’s 200-year distilling legacy. But how does it actually drink today? Jake breaks down the incredibly unique, hybrid flavor profile of this small batch. Blending three barrels of traditional 74% rye with two barrels of high-spice 95% rye, this pour delivers an unexpected wave of sweet corn, baking spices, citrus zest, and grilled peaches on the nose, followed by a deeply complex tropical fruit sweetness on the palate. Is this Pre-Prohibition revival "The Zenith of Possibility in Whiskey Quality," or does it get lost in a crowded rye market? Find out in under five minutes! ⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 - The Ultimate Test: Can REWCO Rye beat Bourbon de Luxe?00:40 - The History of R.E. Wathen & American Medicinal Spirits01:10 - First Impressions: Bottle design and visual aesthetic02:35 - Tasting Notes: Diving into a nose of baking spices and grilled peaches02:55 - Flavor Profile: Unpacking the tropical fruit sweetness and citrus zest03:32 - Palate Experience: How the 109.4 cask strength proof holds up03:58 - Mouthfeel & Smoothness: Textural breakdown of the hybrid mashbill04:27 - The Finish: Subtlety, persistence, and lingering rye spice05:22 - Final Verdict: Is this $60 limited release worth the hunt?05:49 - Celebration ideas, future batch potential, and closing thoughts🔗 Resources & Links:Rolling Fork Spirits Official WebsiteConnect with Jake Lewellen: Twitter | LinkedIn🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. 📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens 🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com 👕 Merch: https://bourbon-lens-shop.printify.me/products 💬 Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSU Hashtags#RewcoRye #RollingForkSpits #FiveMinuteFridays #BourbonLens #RyeWhiskey #WhiskeyReview #BourbonDeLuxe #CaskStrength #PreProhibition #KentuckyRye KeywordsREWCO rye whiskey, Rolling Fork Spirits, R.E. Wathen, Bourbon de Luxe, whiskey review, Kentucky straight rye, cask strength rye, Turner Wathen, independent bottler, craft spirits, American Medicinal Spirits, Prohibition whiskey revival, whiskey tasting notes, craft rye blend, Seelbachs rye, Bourbon Lens, Bourbon Lens News

    5 min
  7. 387: Old Grand-Dad Legacy & Beam's High-Proof Revolving Door: Tasting & Brand Strategy

    14 Jun

    387: Old Grand-Dad Legacy & Beam's High-Proof Revolving Door: Tasting & Brand Strategy

    Old Grand-Dad is a titan among budget bourbons, known for its punchy, high-rye mash bill. But the brand is evolving. In this episode, Jake and Scott dive into the deep history of Old Grand-Dad, tracing it from the 1800s through its current era under the Jim Beam umbrella. We explore the expanded lineup, from the standard 7-year bottled-in-bond to ultra-premium, age-stated releases like the rare 16-year. The core of this discussion, however, centers on the beloved 114 proof and the launch of the new signed single barrel variant. Can aging hide the signature OGD profile? Does Beam’s extensive line expansion threaten its core brands? We break down tasting notes, discuss warehouse terroir, and offer recommendations for all levels of bourbon explorers navigating this crowded, complex market. 🌐 Visit Our Website: https://www.bourbonlens.com 👕 Get Your Bourbon Lens Merch: https://www.bourbonlens.com 💬 Join Our Discord Community: https://www.bourbonlens.com ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS00:00 - Welcome and overview of bourbon topics 00:28 - Trip to the Clermont Supper Club 01:22 - The experience at Clermont Supper Club and community vibe 02:15 - Food, cocktails, and the immersive bourbon events 03:17 - State-of-the-art chefs, bartenders, and the culture of bourbon tastings 04:05 - Favorite cocktails, including the New York Sour 05:11 - Unique cocktail experiences at the Supper Club 05:42 - Highlighting the delicious food options and the Claremont location 06:15 - The whiskey shop and rare bottles like Old Grand-Dad 114 06:56 - Historical background of Old Grand-Dad and its origins 08:02 - The evolution of Old Grand-Dad under Jim Beam’s ownership and its high-rye mash bill 08:55 - The expansion of Old Grand-Dad lineup, including bottling proof and age statements 09:53 - The value and quality of the 7-year bottled-and-bond and 114 proof variants 11:33 - The contrast between regular Old Grand-Dad 114 and higher-age options like the 16-year 12:06 - Beam’s stock and availability of premium releases 13:42 - Introduction of the new Old Grand-Dad 114 single barrel, signed by Freddie Noe 14:03 - The industry trend of launching line extensions and premium offerings 15:27 - Market dynamics, pricing, and the future outlook of bourbon 16:37 - The flavor profiles of different Old Grand-Dad variants 17:03 - The nuances of cannibalization within whiskey brands and lineup strategy 18:18 - How Beam maintains a strong core lineup of affordable, quality bourbons 19:27 - The impact of age statements, proof, and price on consumer choices 20:05 - Recommendations for beginner to intermediate bourbon drinkers 21:36 - The role of recognizable brands in navigating a crowded bourbon market 22:20 - The evolution of whiskey knowledge and the host's own journey 23:40 - Sharing trust with your audience and personal recommendations 24:54 - Tasting notes on Old Grand-Dad 114 and the single barrel release 25:31 - Calorie content and drinking it responsibly 26:33 - Tasting profile: notes of corn, fruit, baking spices, and oak 27:11 - The proof’s influence on flavor and a perfect pour on a cube 27:36 - Flavor complexity and the fruit and spice medley 28:28 - Spice notes and balance in the flavor profile 🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. Please drink responsibly.

    29 min
  8. FMF: Celebrating Eddie Russell’s 45th at Wild Turkey: The Legendary Russell’s 13 Return

    12 Jun

    FMF: Celebrating Eddie Russell’s 45th at Wild Turkey: The Legendary Russell’s 13 Return

    A summer job that turned into a 45-year legacy! In this episode of Bourbon Lens, we raise a glass to Wild Turkey Master Distiller Eddie Russell to celebrate his incredible 45th anniversary milestone at the distillery. We break down the highly anticipated spring release of Russell’s Reserve 13-Year-Old Bourbon, featuring a special commemorative label honoring Eddie’s craftsmanship. Bottled uncut at a unique 121-proof barrel proof, this rare and highly allocated expression brings a rich blend of history and flavor. Discover the inside story of how a rare 18-year-old barrel hand-pulled by Eddie during the filming of his new documentary, "His Own Way," made its way into this legendary 13-year blend. We also explore the pour's complex tasting notes, from initial aromas of citrus, baking spice, and cola, down to a heavy palate layered with rich fruit, sweet cola, rich tobacco, and smooth leather finishes. Plus, we share details on upcoming premiere events and exclusive screenings held at the Wild Turkey Visitor Center. Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Wild Turkey’s Russell’s 13 and Eddie Russell’s milestone00:44 - Details of the limited release, proof, and historical context01:44 - Description of the whiskey’s packaging and thematic elements02:14 - The role of 18-year-old barrels in this blend02:44 - Upcoming cultural events: June 23rd screenings and tastings03:14 - Ticket info for the June 30th visitor center experience03:00 - Tasting notes: nose and aroma of citrus, baking spice, cola03:45 - The significance of Wild Turkey’s limited editions and Eddie’s dedication04:00 - Final thoughts on enjoying and sharing this special bourbon4:30- Closing remarks and toast to Eddie Russell and the Russell family🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. 📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens 🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com 👕 Merch: https://bourbon-lens-shop.printify.me/products 💬 Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSU Hashtags#BourbonLens #WildTurkey #RussellsReserve13 #EddieRussell #BourbonTasting #LimitedRelease #MasterDistiller #BourbonCommunity #WhiskeyHistory KeywordsRussell's 13, Wild Turkey, Eddie Russell 45th anniversary, Russell's Reserve 13 year, barrel proof bourbon, bourbon lens, wild turkey visitor center, his own way documentary, whiskey tasting notes, limited edition bourbon, allocated whiskey price, jimmy russell, kentucky straight bourbon, bourbon lens news

    5 min
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About

Bourbon Lens is the podcast for every whiskey drinker. During this project, we look to explore the whiskey and bourbon industry, learn more about our favorite spirit, and interview industry insiders, makers, entrepreneurs, and business people. We welcome you on this journey with us. Bourbon Lens was founded by Jake and Scott from Louisville, Kentucky. We have grown our appreciation for Kentucky's native spirit and look to learn all that we can about every type of whiskey. We welcome you to pour a glass of whiskey and join us. We are always looking for show topics, discussion starters, and new whiskies to try. Contact us on social media or send us an email to: Info@BourbonLens.com with ideas, comments, or questions.

Information

  • Creator
    Bourbon Lens
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    433
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Bourbon Lens
  • Show Website
    Bourbon Lens

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