Whisky & Smoke News Network

Chris Kumnick - Host

Join your host, Chris Kumnick, on a weekly journey through the world of whisky, cigars, pipes, and pipe tobacco. This isn't just any lifestyle podcast – it's more of a news program that covers the fascinating history, expert insights, and engaging conversation designed to elevate your appreciation for these wonderful pastimes. Whether you're looking to impress your friends with your newfound whisky knowledge, deepen your understanding of the huge world of cigars, or want to watch and learn about the calmness of pipes and pipe tobacco, Whisky & Smoke News Network has something for you.

  1. Ep. 25 - 6/21/26 - Christian Huber - Starlight Distillery - "True, Grain-to-Glass Greatness!!!"

    Jun 24

    Ep. 25 - 6/21/26 - Christian Huber - Starlight Distillery - "True, Grain-to-Glass Greatness!!!"

    In Episode 25 of Whisky & Smoke News Network, host Chris Kumnick delivers the latest whisky, bourbon, cigar, pipe, and tobacco news from around the world before sitting down with Christian Huber, 7th-generation distiller at Starlight Distillery, for an in-depth interview about the highly anticipated 2026 Starlight 10-Year Reserve Bourbon. This episode covers major industry developments including Diageo's restructuring under new CEO Dave Lewis, the UK's lowest barley acreage in 16 years, Ad Gefrin's first Northumbrian single malt in over 200 years, Coors Whiskey Company's new American Malt Whiskey, Blade and Bow's 12-Year Solera Reserve, SHĀNG's groundbreaking baijiu-whiskey fusion, The Donn Single Malt's award-winning success, DEWAR'S 19-Year Champions Edition, Barrel House Distilling's Kentucky expansion, Willett Distillery's new Springfield facility, and Cave City Distilling's grand opening. In cigar news, Chris covers the latest releases from E.P. Carrillo, Arturo Fuente, Kristoff, Crowned Heads, Powstanie, Liga Tridente, RoMa Craft Tobac, Knuckle Sandwich, Lure Cigars, and more. The episode concludes with Chris' latest whisky-and-cigar pairing featuring the E.H. Taylor Corojo Robusto and E.H. Taylor Small Batch Bourbon. Whether you're a Scotch whisky enthusiast, bourbon collector, premium cigar smoker, pipe tobacco fan, or spirits industry follower, this episode is packed with breaking news, new releases, upcoming events, expert insights, and one of the most comprehensive interviews with Christian Huber and Starlight Distillery available anywhere online.Social Media LinksWhisky & Smoke News NetworkInstagram - / whiskynsmokenn Facebook - / whiskynsmoke Please subscribe, ring the bell, like, and comment below!!

    1h 23m
  2. Ep. 24 - 6/14/26 - Murray Kerr - Deanston Distillery - "The Deanston Greatness Starts Here!!"

    Jun 22

    Ep. 24 - 6/14/26 - Murray Kerr - Deanston Distillery - "The Deanston Greatness Starts Here!!"

    Welcome to Episode 24 of Whisky & Smoke News Network! This week, host Chris Kumnick brings you the latest whisky, whiskey, bourbon, and premium cigar news from around the globe, including major releases from Frey Ranch, Green River, Garrison Brothers, Elijah Craig, Old Forester, Penelope Bourbon, Tormore, Kavalan, and The Macallan. We also cover the biggest stories in the cigar world from Joya de Nicaragua, Arturo Fuente, CAO, and Smoke This Trust Me Cigars, along with upcoming whisky, bourbon, cigar, and pipe events across the United States and Europe. The featured "Pop the Cork" interview takes us to Scotland for an exclusive in-person conversation with Deanston Distillery Manager Murray Kerr, where we discuss his whisky journey, the future of Deanston, upcoming releases, and enjoy a special three-dram tasting. Plus, Chris continues his whisky-and-cigar pairing series with a detailed review of the Buffalo Trace Bourbon and Buffalo Trace Cigar pairing. If you love Scotch whisky, bourbon, cigars, pipe tobacco, distillery interviews, whisky reviews, and industry news, be sure to subscribe, like, and join the conversation.Social Media LinksWhisky & Smoke News NetworkInstagram - / whiskynsmokenn Facebook - / whiskynsmoke Please subscribe, ring the bell, like, and comment below!!

    1h 22m
  3. Ep. 23 - 6/7/26 - Greg Standard - Standard Cooperage - The Man Building Texas' Newest Cooperage

    Jun 10

    Ep. 23 - 6/7/26 - Greg Standard - Standard Cooperage - The Man Building Texas' Newest Cooperage

    Whisky & Smoke News Network Episode 23 | June 7, 2026 — Join host Chris Kumnick for another packed episode covering the latest news from the worlds of whisky, bourbon, cigars, pipes, and pipe tobacco. This week features breaking industry updates from Brown-Forman, Slane Distillery, Bruichladdich's Yellow Submarine III, Bardstown Bourbon Company, Mars Whisky, Uncle Nearest, Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare 30, The Macallan, Four Roses, Wild Turkey, Glenmorangie, Gordon & MacPhail, and more. In cigar news, we cover major releases from Espinosa Cigars, OZ Family Cigars, Room101, J.C. Newman, United Cigars, and Don Palomón. Pipe enthusiasts won't want to miss the latest from G.L. Pease and the new Metropolis Flake. Plus, Chris sits down with Greg Standard of Standard Cooperage in Blanco, Texas, for an in-depth interview covering barrel making, cooperage craftsmanship, whiskey maturation, and the future of American coopering. Finally, Chris reviews an exclusive pairing of the Oliva-made Isle of Skye cigar and Isle of Skye PX Sherry Cigar Reserve Scotch Whisky. If you love Scotch whisky, bourbon, Irish whiskey, premium cigars, pipe tobacco, whiskey news, cigar reviews, distillery releases, and industry interviews, be sure to subscribe, like, comment, and follow Whisky & Smoke News Network on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Instagram, and Facebook for weekly coverage of the whisky and cigar lifestyle.Social Media LinksWhisky & Smoke News NetworkInstagram - / whiskynsmokenn Facebook - / whiskynsmoke Please subscribe, ring the bell, like, and comment below!!#Whisky #whiskey #cigars #smoking pipes #pipe tobacco #bourbon #scotch #single malt #WhiskyAndSmokeNewsNetwork,#WhiskyNews,#BourbonNews,#ScotchWhisky,#IrishWhiskey,#CigarNews,#PremiumCigars,#WhiskeyPodcast,#WhiskyPodcast,#GregStandard,#StandardCooperage,#YellowSubmarineIII,#EagleRare30,#TheMacallan,#FourRoses,#WildTurkey,#BuffaloTrace,#BardstownBourbon,#UncleNearest,#CigarReview,#WhiskyReview,#WhiskeyTube,#CigarCommunity,#PipeSmoking,#WhiskyLife,#BourbonLife,#ScotchLovers,#CigarAficionado

    1h 4m
  4. Ep. 22 - 5/24/26 - Luciano Meirelles - Luciano Cigars - Serial Entrepreneur - "Seed to Smoke"

    May 24

    Ep. 22 - 5/24/26 - Luciano Meirelles - Luciano Cigars - Serial Entrepreneur - "Seed to Smoke"

    In this episode of Whisky & Smoke News Network, host Chris Kumnick delivers a deep dive into the latest whisky, cigar, pipe, and pipe tobacco news, new releases, and industry events, highlighted by an exclusive “Torch the Vitola” interview with Luciano Meirelles of Luciano Cigars recorded at the Premium Cigar Association trade show. Episode 21 (May 17, 2026) explores Luciano’s journey into the cigar industry, his blending philosophy, new product releases, and his work supporting emerging producers, offering valuable insights for enthusiasts and collectors alike. This weekly podcast is your go-to source for whisky reviews, cigar culture, premium accessories, and expert interviews, blending entertainment with education for fans of fine spirits and tobacco. Subscribe for more whisky and cigar content, industry news, and in-depth conversations with leading voices in the world of premium lifestyle experiences. Social Media LinksWhisky & Smoke News NetworkInstagram - / whiskynsmokenn Facebook - / whiskynsmoke Please subscribe, ring the bell, like, and comment below!!

    21 min
  5. Ep. 21 - 5/17/26 - Mitch Bechard - Not Another F-cking Whisky Book - "Exploring the World of Whisky!!"

    May 17

    Ep. 21 - 5/17/26 - Mitch Bechard - Not Another F-cking Whisky Book - "Exploring the World of Whisky!!"

    In this engaging conversation, Chris Kumnick interviews Mitch Bichard, a prominent figure in the whiskey industry. They discuss Mitch's journey from being a brand ambassador to launching his own whiskey, Tourist More. Mitch shares insights from his book, 'Not Another F-ing Whiskey Book,' which offers a humorous and candid look at the whiskey world. The conversation touches on the evolution of whiskey culture, the importance of health in the industry, and the growing presence of women in whiskey. Mitch also highlights his bespoke whiskey experiences through Copper Cairn and the significance of personal connections in the whiskey community.Social Media LinksWhisky & Smoke News NetworkInstagram - / whiskynsmokenn Facebook - / whiskynsmoke Please subscribe, ring the bell, like, and comment below!!

    58 min
  6. EP. 20 - 5/10/26 - DAVID GAROFALO - Two Guys Cigars - "The Cigar Authority!!!"

    May 10

    EP. 20 - 5/10/26 - DAVID GAROFALO - Two Guys Cigars - "The Cigar Authority!!!"

    Welcome to Episode 20 of the Whisky & Smoke News Network, your premier weekly source for the latest in whisky, cigars, and pipe tobacco. In this episode, host Chris Kumnick presents a special "Torch the Vitola" in-depth interview with industry legend David Garofalo, owner of Two Guys Smoke Shop, renowned author, and veteran podcaster. We dive deep into David’s pre-cigar career, his insights on the current state of the cigar industry, and a fascinating debate on whether modern tobacco truly is the best in history. Whether you are looking for cigar industry news, expert interviews, or simply looking to relax with a fine dram and a "good stick," this episode delivers the perfect blend of scholarly insight and entertainment. Don't forget to subscribe, like, and leave a review to help other enthusiasts find the best whisky and tobacco content on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.Social Media LinksWhisky & Smoke News NetworkInstagram - / whiskynsmokenn Facebook - / whiskynsmoke Please subscribe, ring the bell, like, and comment below!!

    37 min
  7. EP 19 - 5/3/2026 - GORDON DALLAS - Ian Macleod Distillers - Experiential Brand Ambassador

    May 3

    EP 19 - 5/3/2026 - GORDON DALLAS - Ian Macleod Distillers - Experiential Brand Ambassador

    Join host Chris Kumnick on the Whisky & Smoke News Network (Episode 19) for an essential weekly briefing on the whisky and premium cigar industry. This episode features an exclusive "Pop the Cork" interview with Gordon Dallas of Ian Macleod Distillers, diving into the life of a global brand ambassador. We break down massive industry headlines, including the removal of US tariffs on Scotch whisky, Diageo’s Rare Series luxury launches, and the landmark UK tobacco ban affecting the future of premium cigars. From the latest limited-edition single casks like the Wormtub series to legal victories for handmade cigars against FDA regulations, we cover the trends, new releases, and upcoming global events like Feis Ile 2026 and Houston Cigar Week. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a casual enthusiast, subscribe for your weekly dose of scholarly insights and cheeky entertainment in the world of fine spirits and tobacco.Social Media LinksWhisky & Smoke News NetworkInstagram - / whiskynsmokenn Facebook - / whiskynsmoke Please subscribe, ring the bell, like, and comment below!!

    2h 3m
  8. EP. 18 - 4/12/26 - Billy Walker - The GlenAllachie - Industry Legend-Wodd Finishing Master

    Apr 16

    EP. 18 - 4/12/26 - Billy Walker - The GlenAllachie - Industry Legend-Wodd Finishing Master

    Join host Chris Kumnick on Whisky & Smoke News Network Episode 18 (April 12, 2026) for your weekly deep dive into the worlds of whisky, cigars, pipes, and pipe tobacco. In this packed episode, we deliver the latest whisky news including MGP Ingredients temporarily idling two Kentucky distilleries amid the American whiskey oversupply, Sazerac naming its new AJ Bond Distillery and entering Tennessee whiskey, potential major industry mergers, the Fifth Circuit striking down the federal home distillation ban, the grand opening of Laggan Bay Distillery on Islay, plus exciting new releases from Buffalo Trace, Cotswolds, and more. Cigar enthusiasts get full coverage of 30+ new 2026 releases debuting at the PCA Convention in New Orleans, including Oliva Serie V Melanio World Cup and Edición Año 2026 editions, limited anniversary cigars, and fresh lines from PDR, My Father, and Altadis. We also preview upcoming events like the Premium Cigar Association Trade Show, Texas Whiskey Festival, Spirit of Speyside, and Chicago International Pipe Show. The highlight is an exclusive in-person 'Pop the Cork' interview with whisky legend Billy Walker of The GlenAllachie Distillery in Speyside, Scotland—discussing his career, a distillery tour, blending philosophy, and more. Chris reviews a rare 19-year Deanston Armagnac cask strength single malt (55.7% ABV) and the Punch Chinese New Year 2026 Egg Roll XL cigar. Grab your favorite dram, cigar, or pipe, sit back, and enjoy an entertaining, sometimes cheeky, always informative hour of premium spirits and smoke content. Subscribe for weekly whisky news, cigar releases, and industry interviews! Social Media LinksWhisky & Smoke News NetworkInstagram - / whiskynsmokenn Facebook - / whiskynsmoke Please subscribe, ring the bell, like, and comment below!!

    1h 28m
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About

Join your host, Chris Kumnick, on a weekly journey through the world of whisky, cigars, pipes, and pipe tobacco. This isn't just any lifestyle podcast – it's more of a news program that covers the fascinating history, expert insights, and engaging conversation designed to elevate your appreciation for these wonderful pastimes. Whether you're looking to impress your friends with your newfound whisky knowledge, deepen your understanding of the huge world of cigars, or want to watch and learn about the calmness of pipes and pipe tobacco, Whisky & Smoke News Network has something for you.

Information

  • Creator
    Chris Kumnick - Host
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Chris Kumnick - Host
  • Show Website
    Whisky & Smoke News Network