The Bourbon Life

The Bourbon Life
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The Bourbon Life is your source for all things Bourbon. Reviews | Events | Interviews | Lifestyle

  1. 1d ago

    Season 7, Episode 16: Leah & Quint Pottinger, Owners - Affinity Farms

    On this episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast, Mark is joined by Leah and Quint Pottinger, owners of Affinity Farms, for a fascinating conversation about the critical role agriculture plays in creating exceptional bourbon. Quint shares the remarkable history of his family's farm, which dates back to the late 1700s, making him a ninth-generation farmer. Together, Leah and Quint discuss their individual backgrounds, how they found themselves working together on the farm, and their commitment to preserving both the land and their family's legacy for generations to come. The conversation also explores the cutting-edge technology being implemented at Affinity Farms, including autonomous seeding and other precision agriculture practices that are helping shape the future of farming while maintaining a deep respect for tradition. Mark, Leah, and Quint then dive into the world of growing grains specifically for the bourbon industry. Quint explains how relationships with distilleries are built, the extensive planning required long before a crop is ever planted, and what it takes to consistently produce grain that meets a distillery's exact specifications. They also discuss the fascinating ways that soil composition, field location, growing conditions, and even neighboring vegetation can influence the flavor characteristics of the grain and, ultimately, the whiskey itself. Along the way, they enjoy three exceptional pours: Rock Hill Farms Single Barrel Bourbon Preservation Distillery Pot Distilled Single Barrel Rye (crafted exclusively from grains grown by Affinity Farms) Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C917 Whether you're a bourbon enthusiast, a whiskey nerd, or simply someone who appreciates the stories behind the bottle, this episode offers a unique look at where bourbon truly begins—long before the mash bill reaches the distillery. Be sure to pour yourself a great glass, sit back, and join us for another great episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast.

  2. 4d ago

    The Whiskey Trip - Season 4, Episode 28 - Whisky Wenches Spirits Society

    This week on The Whiskey Trip Podcast, Big Chief welcomes the incredible women of Whiskey Wenches Spirits Society for a conversation filled with history, friendship, and exceptional spirits.   Founder Amanda Engelhorn, Brittni, and the remarkable Eleanor, born in 1933, the same year Prohibition came to an end, join the ride to share their stories, their love of whiskey, and the community they've built through Whiskey Wenches Spirits Society.   Together, they take a deep dive into the mission of Whiskey Wenches Spirits Society, discussing the welcoming space it has created for women to learn about whiskey, build confidence, and form lasting friendships. They also explore the rich history of women in whiskey, from pioneering distillers and bootleggers to the women leading today's spirits industry.   Eleanor enjoys Spirit Hound Distillers' Eleanor Gin, crafted in her honor, while Amanda and Brittni sip a cask strength Spirit Hound American Single Malt finished in Suerte Reposado tequila barrels.   Big Chief kicks off the first half with a Maple Finished Rye from Seldom Seen Whiskey by his good friend Kevin Holy, offering notes of maple, baking spice, toasted oak, and rye spice. In the second half, he pours a cask strength American Single Malt from Deerhammer, showcasing rich malt, honey, caramel, toasted oak, and a long, warming finish.   From the end of Prohibition to today's whiskey renaissance, this episode celebrates the women, stories, and shared pours that continue to shape the whiskey world.   Cheers, and keep taking the ride!

    The Whiskey Trip - Season 4, Episode 28 - Whisky Wenches Spirits Society

  3. Jul 10

    Season 7, Episode 15: Kyle Lloyd, Master of Maturation - Preservation Distillery

    Kyle Lloyd joins The Bourbon Life Podcast for an in-depth conversation about his journey through the world of whiskey and the path that ultimately led him to Preservation Distillery. This week, Mark sits down with Kyle to explore his background and education, his time working at Michter's, and the experiences that helped shape his approach to whiskey before joining the team at Preservation Distillery. The conversation then turns to the fascinating history of Preservation Distillery and its owner, Marci Palatella. Kyle shares the story behind the distillery, Marci's incredible background and long history in the bourbon industry, and the vision that has helped Preservation build a portfolio of distinctive and highly sought-after whiskey brands. Kyle also takes Mark inside his role as Master of Maturation, explaining what that title means, how maturation decisions can shape the character and quality of a whiskey, and the work that goes into managing exceptional barrels as they continue to age. They also look ahead at the future of Preservation Distillery, the opportunities that lie ahead, and what whiskey fans can expect from Kyle and the team in the years to come. And, of course, no episode of The Bourbon Life would be complete without an incredible lineup of pours. This week, they taste and review: • Preservation Distillery Pot Distilled Wheated Bourbon • Very Olde St. Nick Immaculata 2026 Release • Wattie Boone 16-Year American Whiskey From Kyle's journey through the bourbon industry and the remarkable story behind Preservation Distillery to the art and science of maturation and three unique whiskeys, this episode offers a fascinating look at the people, history, and craftsmanship behind one of Kentucky's most interesting distilleries. Whether you're interested in learning more about whiskey maturation, discovering the history behind Preservation Distillery and its brands, or simply enjoy hearing great stories while sharing a few exceptional pours, this is an episode you won't want to miss. This episode is sponsored by District 7 and The Kitchen Table at the James B. Beam Distilling Co.

  4. Jul 7

    The Whiskey Trip - Season 4, Episode 27 - McCauley Williams - Duck Club Bourbon

    This week, Big Chief sits down with McCauley Williams of Duck Club Bourbon to talk about one of the fastest-growing names in American whiskey and the philosophy behind the brand.   Although Riley Green is a part owner, Duck Club Bourbon was never intended to be a celebrity bourbon. From day one, the mission has been simple: create bourbon for the outdoorsman. It's built around hunting camps, duck blinds, campfires, and time spent with family and friends—not hype, inflated prices, or chasing trends. It's honest whiskey made for people who appreciate the outdoors and a well-earned pour.   The first half features Duck Club's 92 Proof Blend, a smooth, approachable bourbon with notes of rich caramel, vanilla, toasted oak, and warm baking spice. It's an everyday pour that delivers quality without breaking the bank.   As Big Chief enjoys the 92 Proof Blend, it takes him back to mornings in the duck blind with his kids. Watching the sunrise over the water, hearing ducks work the decoys, and sharing those quiet moments together are memories that never fade. That's what makes this whiskey special. It isn't just about what's in the glass—it's about the experiences, the traditions, and the people you share it with.   In the second half, the glasses are filled with High Brass, Duck Club's 110 Proof Blend. Bigger and bolder, this whiskey brings layers of dark caramel, roasted nuts, seasoned oak, leather, black pepper, and a long, warming finish that showcases the depth of the blend while remaining remarkably balanced.   McCauley shares the story behind Duck Club Bourbon, what makes the brand different, the importance of keeping whiskey accessible, and why authenticity will always matter more than celebrity. It's a conversation that celebrates great bourbon, the outdoors, and the traditions that connect generations.   If you enjoy bourbon, whiskey, duck hunting, the outdoors, and hearing the stories behind the people making today's best American whiskey, this is an episode you don't want to miss.   Subscribe, leave a review, share the episode with a friend, and join the Taking the Whiskey Ride Facebook community. As always…   Take the Ride.

    The Whiskey Trip - Season 4, Episode 27 - McCauley Williams - Duck Club Bourbon

  5. Jun 30

    The Whiskey Trip - Season 4, Episode 26 - Allisa Henley, Master Distiller - AJ Bond Distillery

    This week on The Whiskey Trip, Big Chief welcomes Allisa Henley, Master Distiller at AJ Bond Distillery, for a conversation rooted in Tennessee whiskey tradition, craftsmanship, and the people who helped shape one of America's great whiskey legacies.   Throughout the episode, they sip on AJ Bond's New Tennessee Whiskey, bottled at 95 proof. The whiskey opens with inviting aromas of caramel, vanilla, toasted oak, and warm baking spices. On the palate, Big Chief picked up distinctive notes of fresh kettle corn, roasted peanuts, and rich dark caramel, creating a sweet-and-savory combination that keeps you coming back for another sip. The finish is smooth and lingering, carrying gentle oak, vanilla, and a touch of spice.   The conversation explores the rich history of the Lincoln County Process, discussing how this defining charcoal mellowing step has influenced Tennessee whiskey for generations and helped create the signature character that Tennessee whiskey is known for.   Allisa also reflects on her years at George Dickel, sharing stories about working alongside her friend and mentor, John Lunn. She offers an inside look at her journey through the whiskey industry, the lessons she learned along the way, and what excites her most about building the future at AJ Bond Distillery.   Whether you're a longtime fan of Tennessee whiskey or just beginning your journey, this episode is filled with history, craftsmanship, great conversation, and memorable pours.   If you're enjoying the journey, we'd love to have you join our growing Taking the Whiskey Ride Facebook group. It's a place where whiskey lovers from across the country share pours, stories, distillery visits, and conversations that continue long after each episode ends. Come be part of the community, meet fellow riders, and keep the conversation rolling.   Take the Ride. Cheers!

    The Whiskey Trip - Season 4, Episode 26 - Allisa Henley, Master Distiller - AJ Bond Distillery

  6. Jun 26

    Season 7, Episode 14: Ashley Barnes, Master Blender

    Ashley Barnes is back for her fourth appearance on The Bourbon Life Podcast, and as always, she brings plenty of insight, honesty, and exceptional whiskey along for the ride. Matt and Mark catch up with Ashley to discuss her recent departure from The Spirits Group and her exciting new chapter as an independent blending consultant, while continuing her role as Master Blender for The Blending House. Ashley shares what this transition means for her career, the opportunities it creates, and why she's more excited than ever about the future of whiskey. The conversation then turns to one of the most anticipated bourbon releases of the year—Jacob Spears Bourbon. Named in honor of one of Kentucky's earliest distillers, the whiskey was distilled by Bourbon Hall of Famer Jim Rutledge and blended by Ashley. Matt and Mark even have the unique opportunity to taste and weigh in on two different small batch blend variations before discussing the final direction of the brand, along with a standout single barrel expression. Ashley also previews the upcoming Grand Slam Bourbon Fest, taking place August 27 at League Stadium in Huntingburg, Indiana, where bourbon and baseball come together to celebrate America's 250th Anniversary with an unforgettable day of great whiskey, great history, and great fun. And, of course, no episode of The Bourbon Life would be complete without a lineup of incredible pours. This week, the crew tastes and reviews: 2015 Four Roses Small Batch Limited Edition (a release Ashley helped blend alongside Jim Rutledge during their time at Four Roses) Two Jacob Spears Bourbon Small Batch blend variations Jacob Spears Bourbon Single Barrel Two Worlds Whiskey Alliance Whether you're interested in the art of blending, the story behind an exciting new bourbon brand, or simply enjoy hearing from one of the industry's most respected blenders, this is an episode you won't want to miss. This episode is sponsored by District 7 Social and The Kitchen Table at the James B. Beam Distilling Co.

  7. Jun 23

    The Whiskey Trip - Season 4, Episode 25 - Hemal Patel & Joe Godfrey - Patel Boourbon

    This week on The Whiskey Trip, Big Chief welcomes Hemal Patel and Joe Godfrey of Patel Bourbon for a conversation about friendship, craftsmanship, and the journey of building a premium whiskey brand. Patel Bourbon was founded on the idea that great whiskey should be more than just something you drink. It should be something that brings people together, sparks conversation, and creates lasting memories.   We kicked off the first half with Patel's Bespoke Straight Wheat Whiskey, an 8 year, 3 month old single barrel bottled at 115 proof. Soft wheat sweetness, honey, and light oak with a smooth, warming finish. From there, we moved into their Kentucky style Rye, a 9 year, 3 month old cask strength whiskey that beautifully balances sweetness and spice. Bright citrus, baking spice, and a peppery kick with a touch of caramel. Along the way, Hemal and Joe shared the story behind Patel Bourbon, the meaning of their Epicurean philosophy, and the passion that drives every barrel they select.   The second half opened with their Bespoke Straight Bourbon, a nearly 9 year old cask strength expression packed with rich caramel, oak, and baking spice notes. Deep caramel, toasted oak, and vanilla with a bold, lingering finish. We wrapped up the episode with Patel's impressive 9 year, 2 month old Straight Rye bottled at 121 proof, a bold and flavorful whiskey that showcases everything rye lovers are looking for in a premium single barrel. Dark spice, mint, and charred oak with a long, spicy finish.   Beyond the whiskey, this episode explores entrepreneurship, barrel selection, and what it takes to build a brand in today's whiskey landscape. Hemal and Joe discuss the importance of relationships, staying true to your vision, and creating a company that stands for something bigger than the bottle.   One of the things that makes Patel Bourbon unique is its commitment to giving back. Through its support of the David Downie Foundation, the company helps families facing the financial burdens that often accompany a cancer diagnosis. It is a reminder that success is not just measured by what you build, but by how many lives you impact along the way.   And because no ride is complete without a little extra excitement, one lucky listener will win the same Patel Bourbon Straight Rye featured on the show, along with a Patel Bourbon T shirt and a The Whiskey Trip rocks glass.   Pour a glass, settle in, and Take the Ride.

    The Whiskey Trip - Season 4, Episode 25 - Hemal Patel & Joe Godfrey - Patel Boourbon

  8. Jun 19

    Season 7, Episode 13: David Mandell, Co-Founder & CEO & Ryan Poe, Distillery Senior Manager and Head of Innovation - Whiskey House of Kentucky

    In this episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast, Matt and Mark welcome back fan-favorite guest David Mandell, Co-Founder and CEO of Whiskey House of Kentucky, for his fourth appearance on the show. Joining him for the first time is Ryan Poe, Distillery Senior Manager and Head of Innovation at Whiskey House of Kentucky, making not only his Bourbon Life debut, but his very first podcast appearance. The conversation begins with Ryan sharing his background and the journey that ultimately led him to Whiskey House, where innovation isn't just a buzzword - it's a core part of the company's DNA. David and Ryan discuss how Whiskey House's unique approach to contract distilling and product development allows them to tackle projects that many distilleries simply can't, while also navigating the challenges facing today's whiskey market. The discussion then turns to one of the most exciting and ambitious spirits projects to hit the market in recent years: SHANG Whiskey. David and Ryan take listeners behind the scenes of this groundbreaking collaboration between Maritime Brands, True Essence Foods, Guìzhōu Guótái Shùzhì Liquor Group, Whiskey House, and The Blending House. They explore the rich history of Jiang Xiang Baijiu in China, the remarkably complex process used to produce it, and how that centuries-old tradition became the foundation for an entirely new whiskey category. Listeners will also get an inside look at the creation of SHANG East + West, a first-of-its-kind whiskey that blends American red sorghum whiskey developed by Whiskey House with Jiang Xiang Baijiu, creating a truly unique expression that bridges Eastern and Western distilling traditions. And, of course, no episode of The Bourbon Life would be complete without a tasting. Matt, Mark, David, and Ryan sip and review three exceptional pours, including E.H. Taylor Single Barrel in honor of Ryan's time at Buffalo Trace, along with the brand-new SHANG Dan Yu Whiskey and SHANG East + West Whiskey. Whether you're fascinated by innovation, curious about the future of whiskey, or simply looking to learn about one of the most unique spirits projects ever brought to market, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at creativity, collaboration, and category creation in the whiskey world. This Episode is sponsored by District 7 Social and The Kitchen Table at the James B. Beam Distilling Co.

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About

The Bourbon Life is your source for all things Bourbon. Reviews | Events | Interviews | Lifestyle

Information

  • Creator
    The Bourbon Life
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    105
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © (c) 2022 The Bourbon Life
  • Show Website
    The Bourbon Life

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