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. 1d ago

    400: Stepping On Hallowed Ground A Sit Down At Stitzel-Weller

    Episode SummaryTo celebrate their landmark 400th episode, The Bourbon Lens crew heads to one of the most hallowed sites in American whiskey — Stitzel-Weller Distillery in Shively, Kentucky — for a sit-down with Nicole Austin, Diageo's Director of American Whiskey Liquid Development and Capabilities. Nicole pulls back the curtain on the mystery of why decades-old bourbon aged in Stitzel-Weller's rickhouses defies the conventional wisdom that American whiskey "expires" past a certain age. The conversation covers barrel consolidation (topping off), the historic rickhouse design patented by Frederick Stitzel, and the launch of the new Blade and Bow 12-Year Solera — a 104-proof, sub-$65 bourbon built using a fractional-blending Solera process borrowed from sherry and adapted for American whiskey. Main ThemesThe "magic" of Stitzel-Weller's rickhouses — why extreme-age American whiskey (25–40+ years) is proving possible here, and how airflow, rickhouse architecture, and shade trees may matter as much as the mash bill.Barrel consolidation ("topping off") — a labor-intensive practice borrowed from Scotch and Canadian whiskey that halts the "snowball effect" of angel's share loss and staving damage in half-empty barrels.The Solera method, Americanized — how Nicole adapted sherry's fractional-blending system into a 12-year-minimum-age bourbon blend using vintage cognac, port, muscatel, and Bordeaux vats.Craft philosophy over collectibility — Nicole's approach favors consistent quality and drinkability over hype-driven, numbered limited releases.Proof point and dilution culture — a pushback on "proof-chasing" in the bourbon community, and why a 104-proof whiskey can outperform higher-proof releases in balance and accessibility.Bourbon history and place — Shively's forgotten legacy as a distilling capital, and Stitzel-Weller's connection to figures like Julian "Pappy" Van Winkle.Featured GuestNicole Austin — Director of American Whiskey Liquid Development and Capabilities, Diageo. Former general manager and master blender at Cascade Hollow (George Dickel), now overseeing extended-age and innovation projects at Stitzel-Weller, including the Stitzel Reserve line and Blade and Bow. Featured WhiskeyBlade and Bow 12-Year Solera Bourbon Minimum age: 12 years (in new American oak)Proof: 104MSRP: $64.99Process: Fractional Solera blending across vintage cognac, port, muscatel, and Bordeaux vatsQuick LinksFollow The Bourbon Lens on Instagram for bottle drop alertsVisit Stitzel-Weller Distillery in Shively, Louisville, KY

    400: Stepping On Hallowed Ground A Sit Down At Stitzel-Weller

  2. 1d ago ·  Bonus

    Introducing: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

    Introducing ⁠BENNY BLANCO: The Secret to Failing Your Way to Success from On Purpose with Jay Shetty. Follow the show: On Purpose with Jay Shetty Record producer, songwriter, and music executive Benny Blanco joins Jay for an unfiltered, hilarious, and deeply vulnerable conversation about redefining success, overcoming crippling phobias, and why embracing failure is the ultimate secret to unlocking your true creative potential. Benny pulls back the curtain on his chart-topping music career, sharing behind-the-scenes stories with artists like Ed Sheeran, Bruno Mars, and Britney Spears, while diving into his candid new book on mastering life’s setbacks. Together they explore how to overcome the fear of embarrassment, build emotional resilience, protect your mental health while chasing big dreams, and maintain a grounded, loving relationship under the spotlight. With Love and Gratitude, Jay Shetty Mazda crafts cars for people who do more than simply move. Visit Mazdausa.com to learn more. Consumer reports does not endorse products or services. PURPOSE10 for 10% at altrarunning.com/onpurpose. Free Shipping and Free 30-Day Trial. JAY’S DAILY WISDOM DELIVERED STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX Join 900,000+ readers discovering how small daily shifts create big life change with my free newsletter. Subscribe here: https://news.jayshetty.me/subscribe Check out our Apple subscription to unlock bonus content of On Purpose! https://lnk.to/JayShettyPodcast What We Discuss: 00:00 Intro 01:58 Looking Back at the Songs That Started It All 03:07 Repeat “I Am a Failure” 04:18 Overcoming Embarrassment and Taking Big Swings 06:28 Early Lessons in Failure 08:20 Choosing Non-Traditional Creative Paths 09:51 Mom’s Dreams Vs Choosing Your Own Path 11:11 Turning Doubt Into Motivation 12:05 Ignoring The Haters and Finding Your Spark 13:39 Turning Small Steps Into Big Momentum 14:59 The Success Stool: Balancing Life’s 3 Pillars 15:37 The Power of Small Daily Habits 17:12 Relationships Need Watering Too 18:46 Facing Failure, Fear and a Phobia of Flying 21:45 Taking Micro-Steps to Conquer Deep Fears 23:04 One Task at a Time 24:04 Bruno Mars’ Journey 27:13 Authenticity vs. Imitation in Creative Expression 28:35 Late-Night Songwriting with Ed Sheeran 33:41 Trusting That It Will Work Out 34:19 Finding Your Unique Sound Beyond Influences 36:23 Unfiltered Vulnerability & Asking for Help 39:19 Celebrating Wins vs. Constant Over-Achieving 40:06 Standing Your Ground: Britney Spears to Julia Michaels 43:57 Grammy Perspective and Redefining Success 48:53 When a Failure Turns Into Your Biggest Win (“Diamonds”) 50:58 Mental Health Breakdown Amid Peak Success 53:06 Priority Management, Boundaries, and Emotional Check-ins 55:32 The Power of Saying “No” to Protect Your Peace 57:22 Why Benny Wrote His New Book 58:53 Benny Blanco on Final Five Episode Resources: Pre-order F*ck Failure | https://www.amazon.com/dp/1668205246?lv=shuf&bestFormat=true&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_13VQ1DN9JWKWJSK7YN2A&channelId=704&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_13VQ1DN9JWKWJSK7YN2A&plpRedirect=mhFallback Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/itsbennyblanco/ TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@itsbennyblanco YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqrBKQHQVEvD2Q9FP0DCP2g X | https://x.com/ItsBennyBlanco Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/itsbennyblanco/ Watch Friends Keep Secrets | https://linktr.ee/friendskeepsecrets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/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.

    Introducing: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

  3. Sep 6

    399: Why New Riff’s American Single Malt Changes Everything

    Explore the craft of American Single Malt whiskey with the team at New Riff Distillery. In this episode, we dive deep into New Riff's oldest whiskey release to date, exploring their hands-on approach to mash bills, barrel maturation, and complex blending strategies. Learn how different barrel types, unique yeast strains, and warehouse climate management shape the rich, evolving flavor profiles of Kentucky single malt. We break down everything from cocktail versatility and annual release coding systems to the intricate maturation curve that turns experimental grain bills into award-winning pours. Whether you are a seasoned whiskey collector or curious about the rapid rise of American Single Malts, this deep-dive interview delivers essential insights into modern craft distilling. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to New Riff Distillery & Single Malt Program01:07 - Unveiling Their Oldest Whiskey Release02:21 - Mash Bills, Blending & Inventory Management04:11 - Warehouse Management & Barrel Care Techniques07:03 - Craft Distillery Expansion & Scaling Success11:16 - Developing the American Single Malt Whiskey Program25:01 - Defining Kentucky Single Malt Characteristics26:15 - Barrel Types, Wood Casks & Maturation Impact27:29 - Breaking Down Flavor Profiles & Tasting Notes29:37 - The Blending Process & Vatted Malt Experiences29:59 - Decoding the Annual Release & Coding System33:39 - Cocktail Versatility & Pairing Ideas50:28 - Yeast Strain Selection & Production Consistency53:53 - Maturation Cycles, Aging & Flavor Evolution01:13:31 - Final Release Details & National Distribution 🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. 📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.comMerch: https://bourbon-lens-shop.printify.me/productsDiscord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSUHashtags: #BourbonLens #NewRiffDistillery #AmericanSingleMalt #SingleMaltWhiskey #WhiskeyTasting #CraftDistillery #WhiskeyBlending #BourbonCommunity #KentuckyWhiskey #WhiskeyPodcast

    399: Why New Riff’s American Single Malt Changes Everything

  4. Sep 3

    Chef Brian Landry on Food, Music & Bourbon: The Kitchen Table Story | Thursday Thoughts

    Chef and restaurateur Brian Landry joins Bourbon Lens to share his journey from line cook to multi-concept hospitality owner — and the story behind his new book exploring the deep connection between food and music. In this episode, Brian walks through the origin of his acclaimed Kitchen Table restaurant, the Beam family history woven into its story, and why community focus — not trends — has been the real driver of his success across multiple locations. We dig into how storytelling shapes every menu and beverage program he builds, including a pizza program that highlights the yeast strain from Jim Beam's original yeast. Brian also previews the upcoming Icons Dinner and its bourbon pairing menu, talks candidly about the challenges of expanding a hospitality group through COVID-19, and shares what's next for his growing restaurant ventures — plus the inspiration behind his new book on food and music. In this episode: Brian Landry's culinary background and early restaurant experienceThe concept and true story behind the Kitchen TableWhy community focus sustains restaurant success long-termThe role of storytelling in food and beverage experiencesA first look at the Icons Dinner and its bourbon pairing menuThe inspiration and content behind Brian's new bookHow food and music intersect to shape culture and communityNavigating restaurant expansion challenges during COVID-19What's ahead for Landry's hospitality venturesTimestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to Brian Landry and his culinary journey 01:56 – How Brian got started in the restaurant industry 03:59 – The importance of community in restaurant success 05:59 – Details about the Kitchen Table and its story 07:59 – The connection between food, music, and storytelling 10:00 – Upcoming events: Icons Dinner and bourbon pairing 12:02 – The inspiration behind Brian's new book 14:02 – Future plans for Landry's hospitality ventures 🔔 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

    Chef Brian Landry on Food, Music & Bourbon: The Kitchen Table Story | Thursday Thoughts

  5. Aug 30

    398: Penelope Bourbon 5 Years Later: Danny Polise on Growth, Blending & the Classic Series Launch

    Danny Polise, Founder and Master Blender of Penelope Bourbon, joins Jake Lewellen and Scott Dilley for a long-overdue Bourbon Lens catch-up — five years after his last appearance on the show. In this episode, Danny walks through how Penelope Bourbon has grown from a three-product lineup into a full portfolio spanning the Cooper Series finishes, light whiskey single barrel picks, ready-to-pour cocktails, and the brand-new Kentucky-made Classic Series. The crew talks through Penelope's expansion since the MGP Luxco acquisition, why the light whiskey releases took off with drinkers, and how ready-to-pour flavors like Apple Cinnamon, Peach, Black Walnut, and Blackberry fit different seasons and serving styles. Danny then unveils the Classic Series — a straight Kentucky bourbon and a straight rye (built from Indiana 95.5 and 51.49 rye stock) aimed at everyday drinkability at accessible price points. Jake and Scott give their first taste impressions of both 92-proof expressions, breaking down notes of citrus, orange candy, vanilla, and light herbal spice in the rye. The conversation wraps with a deep dive into Danny's blending process, how he moves through inventory faster today, and how Penelope balances consistency with experimentation across its barrel and tank combinations — plus a look at how the Architect Series became the golf-themed Golf Series concept. ⏱️ EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 – Reintroducing Danny Polise after five years01:56 – Cooper Series & the MGP Luxco acquisition04:43 – Why Penelope's light whiskey took off09:01 – Tasting through the full lineup11:25 – Ready-to-pour cocktails & seasonal flavors16:00 – Barrel experimentation & smoked Old Fashioneds17:13 – Introducing the Kentucky Classic Series20:31 – Building the rye blend & sourcing Kentucky barrels25:19 – Danny's evolved blending process30:17 – From Architect Series to the Golf Series36:55 – Tasting notes: Classic Series bourbon & rye41:46 – Wrap-up and see you next time🔔 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 #PenelopeBourbon #DannyPolise #ClassicSeries #KentuckyBourbon #StraightRye #BourbonPodcast #WhiskeyPodcast #BourbonReview #BourbonCommunity #MGPIngredients #CooperSeries #ReadyToPourCocktails #BourbonNews #WhiskeyTasting #BourbonCulture #CraftWhiskey #KentuckyWhiskey #BourbonLife #SipListenDiscover

    398: Penelope Bourbon 5 Years Later: Danny Polise on Growth, Blending & the Classic Series Launch

  6. Aug 27

    Wyoming Whiskey Is Back in Wyoming Hands: David DeFazio on What's Next | Thursday Thoughts

    Wyoming Whiskey just got its biggest reset in years — and David DeFazio explains why bringing the brand back into Wyoming ownership could change everything. Jake Lewellen sits down with the longtime friend of the podcast to break down the buyback, the emotional reaction from locals, and why this moment feels like a second chance to earn trust all over again. What starts as a quick catch-up turns into a real look at the future of the distillery — from barrel strategy and brand positioning to the practical realities of taking control of your own story. David shares the behind-the-scenes details of how the deal came together in just three months, why bringing back longtime blender Nancy Fraley matters, and how "letting the barrels tell you what to do" is shaping what's coming next. You'll discover: Why the team believes "hitting singles" beats chasing home runs in whiskey growthHow the buyback is giving Wyoming Whiskey a chance to reset its reputation with locals and fansWhat David says about bringing back Nancy, rethinking releases, and letting the barrels lead the decisionsWhy age statements like 10, 12, and 15 years could be a major part of the next chapterHow a new whiskey library, older stock, and distillery-only bottles could fuel exciting future dropsDavid also opens up about historic lows in national alcohol consumption, smart inventory planning for a smaller producer, and why small, practical ideas from the team on the ground in Kirby could shape the next wave of releases — including a possible cutthroat trout series inspired by Wyoming's own waters. If you like your whiskey talk honest, specific, and full of big-picture strategy, this one belongs on your playlist. Essential listening for Wyoming Whiskey fans, age-statement hunters, and anyone who loves hearing how a great brand gets a second chance. Timestamps: 00:00 – The big news of new ownership 01:15 – Impact of the change and community reaction 03:03 – Hitting singles vs. home runs: the new approach 07:08 – Why now: the reasons behind the transition 09:04 – Bringing back Nancy and key team members 10:12 – Creating a whiskey library from old stock 13:10 – Expanding into age statements and rye 17:15 – Planning production for the future 19:02 – Refining processes and building a legacy 22:49 – Consumer preferences and what's next Subscribe🔔 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#WyomingWhiskey #DavidDeFazio #BourbonLens #CraftWhiskey #WeededBourbon #AgeStatementWhiskey #WhiskeyPodcast #BourbonCommunity #WhiskeyIndustry #KirbyWyoming #JacksonHole #WhiskeyNews #IndependentDistillery #BourbonCollector #AmericanWhiskey

    Wyoming Whiskey Is Back in Wyoming Hands: David DeFazio on What's Next | Thursday Thoughts

  7. Aug 23

    397: Wild Turkey's Bruce Russell on Russell's 13 & the Future of the Family Legacy

    Bruce Russell (Wild Turkey) sits down with Jake Lewellen on The Bourbon Lens to break down one of the hottest bourbon summers in recent memory. Bruce opens up about blending, barrel hunting, and what it means to carry the Russell family legacy forward. In this episode, Bruce shares how a side project turned into two mystery 2007 barrels that ended up defining Russell's 13, why his dad Eddie Russell never gets to taste a blend until it's nearly finished, and the emotional moment when 90-plus-year-old Jimmy Russell first tried the release. You'll also get a rare breakdown of how three generations of Russells — Jimmy, Eddie, and Bruce — each bring a different palate to the whiskey, and how that shows up in bottles like Generations, Master's Keep, and the Whiskey Barons Collection. Bruce talks candidly about being a "whiskey nerd" himself, how that shapes what Wild Turkey puts on shelves in a crowded, correcting bourbon market, and why he's chasing that dusty, cherry-cola richness of vintage Wild Turkey in modern releases. Whether you're a longtime Wild Turkey collector or just getting into bourbon, this conversation is packed with insider stories you won't hear anywhere else. Topics covered: Wild Turkey's record-breaking summer releasesHow Russell's 13 was blended, including barrels from 2007Jimmy Russell's and Eddie Russell's distinct flavor palatesThe story behind Whiskey Barons and Master's KeepWhy the bourbon industry is going through a correctionWhat's next for Wild Turkey and the Russell familyTimestamps: 00:00 – Bruce Russell joins to discuss Wild Turkey's summer momentum 06:31 – Why being a whiskey consumer helps Bruce make better whiskey 09:45 – Three generations, three palates, and the idea behind Generations 13:08 – Building Russell's 13 with older liquid and special barrel selection 18:17 – Why Russell's 13 drinks like cherry cola and dark fruit 22:12 – Side-by-side tasting against vintage gold foil bottles 24:34 – Jimmy's emotional reaction to the release 29:55 – Masters Keep as Eddie Russell's way to do Wild Turkey his way 34:07 – Jimmy Russell's uncanny ability to make young whiskey taste much older 36:20 – The Russell family's shared legacy and what's next for the brand Subscribe🔔 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#WildTurkey #BruceRussell #RussellsReserve #Bourbon #BourbonWhiskey #BourbonLens #EddieRussell #JimmyRussell #Whiskey #WhiskeyPodcast #BourbonCommunity #KentuckyBourbon #MastersKeep #BourbonBar #BourbonTasting #WhiskeyNerd #BourbonIndustry #BourbonCollector #CampNelson

    397: Wild Turkey's Bruce Russell on Russell's 13 & the Future of the Family Legacy

  8. Aug 21

    Water Tasting 101: Louisville Pure Tap vs. Dasani, Evian & Gerolsteiner | Five Minute Fridays

    What if the difference between "just water" and an unforgettable tasting experience came down to total dissolved solids, source, and treatment? In this Five Minute Fridays episode, Bourbon Lens turns a glass of water into a side-by-side flavor experiment that will change the way you think about hydration, bottled water, and even bourbon tasting. Host Jake teams up with Kelly from Louisville Water to compare Louisville Pure Tap against three well-known bottled waters — Dasani, Evian, and Gerolsteiner — using the same look, sniff, swirl, sip method water professionals use in the lab every day. Along the way, you'll hear why Dasani reads as a stripped-down, basic profile with just 30 total dissolved solids, why Evian feels "fancy" with its mineral-rich spring-water character, and how Gerolsteiner's natural effervescence brings a completely different mouthfeel to the glass. You'll discover: How total dissolved solids (TDS) shape water's taste and feelWhy source water and treatment matter more than most people realizeThe difference between tap water, spring water, mineral water, and premium bottled waterHow Louisville Pure Tap's TDS of 240 compares to spring water giant EvianA simple at-home water tasting method you can try with friends and familyKelly also explains why Louisville Water runs taste tests in the lab every day, and why the goal isn't finding a "best" water — it's understanding the story inside each glass. If you've ever dismissed tap water as plain, this episode shows how much character, geology, and craft can live in something as simple as a sip. Perfect for bourbon fans, curious tasters, and anyone who enjoys a quick, low-stakes experiment that makes an everyday ritual feel surprisingly new. After this one, you may never look at a glass of water the same way again. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Water Tasting 01:14 Tasting Dasani – Basic Bottled Water 02:53 Tasting Evian – Spring Water 03:49 Tasting Gerolsteiner – Natural Mineral Water 04:45 Tasting Louisville Pure Tap 05:23 Exploring Water's Story and Flavor Profile 🔔 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

    Water Tasting 101: Louisville Pure Tap vs. Dasani, Evian & Gerolsteiner | Five Minute Fridays
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4.7
out of 5
111 Ratings

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
    452
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Bourbon Lens
  • Show Website
    Bourbon Lens

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