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 18: Peggy Noe Stevens & Heather Wibbels

    On this Episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast, Mark and Matt welcome back two returning favorites and some of the most respected educators in the bourbon world: Peggy Noe Stevens and Heather Wibbels. Peggy is the President of Peggy Noe Stevens & Associates, a Master Bourbon Taster, and a member of the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame. Heather, known throughout the bourbon community as Cocktail Contessa, is a whiskey educator, author, and former Managing Director of Bourbon Women. Since their last appearances on the show, both Peggy and Heather have been busy educating, writing, speaking, and helping shape the future of bourbon culture. In this Episode, they share what they've been working on, discuss their respective books, and dive deep into a fascinating conversation about the ever-growing role of cocktails in the bourbon world. Together, they tackle topics including: What makes a truly great bourbon cocktail The myth that you shouldn't use good bourbon in cocktails How glassware and garnishes can completely transform the drinking experience Why cocktails continue to attract new consumers to bourbon The evolution of cocktail culture and its impact on bourbon's growth and popularity The conversation wraps up with a preview of their upcoming Kentucky Bourbon Festival experience, "3 Books + 3 Cocktails," where attendees will enjoy a unique blend of storytelling, bourbon education, literature, and cocktail craftsmanship. And for what may be a first in the history of The Bourbon Life Podcast, no bourbons were sampled or reviewed during this episode. Instead, the focus is entirely on education, storytelling, cocktails, and the people helping introduce new audiences to America's Native Spirit. Whether you're a neat-pour purist, a cocktail enthusiast, or somewhere in between, this Episode offers plenty of insights, laughs, and great stories from two of bourbon's most passionate educators and ambassadors.

  2. 4d ago

    The Whiskey Trip - Season 4, Episode 30 - Jordan Watters, CEO & President - Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery

    This week on The Whiskey Trip, Big Chief heads to Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery in Spicewood, Texas, to sit down with CEO and President Jordan Watters. Jordan shares the story behind one of Texas' fastest-growing craft distilleries, the vision that built Iron Wolf, and why Texas whiskey continues to make its mark across the country.   The first half of the episode features Iron Wolf's High Rye Bourbon, where Big Chief and Jordan discuss the bold spice and balanced sweetness that define the pour. They then move to Iron Wolf's Rye Whiskey, comparing the two expressions while talking about mash bills, flavor development, and the craft behind great whiskey.   In the second half, the conversation shifts to Iron Wolf's popular HotScotch, featuring rich butterscotch flavors that have made it a fan favorite. They finish with Iron Hot, a bold and spicy spirit that perfectly showcases Iron Wolf's adventurous approach to crafting unique products.   Whether you're a longtime whiskey enthusiast or just discovering Texas spirits, this episode is full of great stories, exceptional pours, and plenty of laughs. Pour yourself a glass, settle in, and Take the Ride.

    The Whiskey Trip - Season 4, Episode 30 - Jordan Watters, CEO & President - Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery

  3. Jul 24

    Season 7, Episode 17: Barry & Tori Brinegar

    On this episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast, Mark flies solo as host and welcomes back longtime friends and multi-time guests Barry and Tori Brinegar for a conversation that's been a long time coming—and one that finally lets Barry answer the question everyone has been asking: What's next? The answer is Kentucky Bonded Spirits, a new venture created by Barry and Tori that will work alongside spirits brands in a consultative role, drawing on Barry's years of experience and relationships across the industry to help brands build their presence, navigate the marketplace, and create meaningful growth. Barry and Tori share the story behind Kentucky Bonded Spirits, why they felt the traditional model was ready for a different approach, and how they plan to work primarily in Kentucky and Georgia alongside their Georgia partner, Josh Culbreth. They also discuss their vision for disrupting some of the conventional thinking around distribution, market access, and ultimately creating better pathways for brands to connect directly with consumers. The conversation then turns to one of the brands Kentucky Bonded Spirits will be working with - Row 94, the whiskey brand backed by country music superstar Dierks Bentley. Barry and Tori talk about the opportunity they see in the brand, what makes Row 94 interesting in an increasingly crowded whiskey marketplace, and how they hope to help build its presence and reach. And because Barry, Tori, and Mark have been around this industry, and each other for a while, the conversation naturally wanders into a few stories about some very good mutual friends. They talk about Kim and Tom Bard and the incredible work happening at Bard Distillery, as well as Denny Potter and Jane Bowie and the exciting things taking shape at Potter Jane Distillery. It's a conversation about friendship, entrepreneurship, taking chances, building something of your own, and the people who continue to make Kentucky bourbon such a fascinating industry to follow. And with this crew, there was certainly no shortage of whiskey on the table. Along the way, Mark, Barry, and Tori enjoy an impressive lineup of pours: • Old Grand-Dad 114 Single Barrel • Row 94 Small Batch • Row 94 Broken Branches • Row 94 Full Proof • John Prine Kentucky Straight Bourbon from Bard Distillery • Big Vat Liar from Potter Jane Distillery From launching a brand-new venture and challenging traditional industry models to Dierks Bentley, old friends, new distilleries, and a table full of great whiskey, this episode covers a lot of ground and has plenty of laughs along the way. So pour yourself a great glass, settle in, and join Mark, Barry, and Tori for another fun conversation about new beginnings, big ideas, good friends, and what might be next for the bourbon industry on this episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast.

  4. Jul 21

    The Whiskey Trip - Season 4, Episode 29 - Greg Standard, Owner & Founder - Standard Cooperage

    This week, Big Chief heads to the Texas Hill Country to visit Greg Standard, founder and owner of Standard Cooperage, the first full-scale cooperage in Texas. From towering white oak logs to finished barrels, Greg pulls back the curtain on one of the oldest and most important crafts in the whiskey industry.   Before the conversation begins, Big Chief takes listeners on a brief journey through the history of the barrel, from its origins with the ancient Celts and Romans to its evolution into the 53-gallon American Standard Barrel that has become the cornerstone of bourbon and American whiskey. It's the perfect setup for an episode dedicated to the people who still build barrels by hand.   Greg shares his journey from engineer to cooper, what inspired him to establish Standard Cooperage, and why having a Texas cooperage is a game changer for the state's rapidly growing whiskey and wine industries. Together, they discuss wood selection, natural seasoning, raising a barrel, toasting, charring, and why every detail matters when crafting a barrel capable of producing exceptional whiskey.   During the first half of the episode, Greg and Big Chief sip on a Maverick Distillery Bourbon, while the second half features a Still Austin Cask Strength Bourbon. Both Texas distilleries are beginning to harness the craftsmanship and innovation of Standard Cooperage barrels, making these pours a perfect complement to the conversation about the future of Texas whiskey.   In This Episode   • A brief history of the whiskey barrel • Greg Standard's journey to founding Standard Cooperage • From oak log to finished barrel • How toast and char shape a whiskey's flavor • Why Texas-made barrels are changing the whiskey landscape • Maverick Distillery and Still Austin's use of Standard Cooperage barrels • The future of Texas coopering and American whiskey   Whether you're a whiskey enthusiast, a distiller, a barrel geek, or simply curious about what transforms new make spirit into exceptional whiskey, this episode offers a fascinating look inside one of the most respected crafts in the spirits world.   Like, subscribe, and share this episode with your fellow whiskey lovers.   Keep taking the Ride!

    The Whiskey Trip - Season 4, Episode 29 - Greg Standard, Owner & Founder - Standard Cooperage

  5. Jul 17

    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.

  6. Jul 14

    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

  7. 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.

  8. 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
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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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