Whiskey Lore: The Interviews Drew Hannush

Time to dig into the 1970s and beyond with the great Richard Paterson. We're going to talk about how blenders work with spirits, the comradery in the industry in the early days, how Richard got into doing presentations in front of people, the origins of his whisky toss, The Dalmore Distillery and its secrets, and Billy Walker will toss in a comment. Enjoy!

As I celebrate my 100th interview episode, my special guest is Richard Paterson of Whyte & MacKay, the Dalmore, Jura, and of course Shackleton. During this hour we are going to step back into the 1960s with Richard and talk about the way things were versus how they are now in the Scotch whisky industry. We'll also find about the first distillery he visited, Glasgow as a whisky town, distillery character, and as bunch of fun stories as only Richard can tell them. 
Slainte!

During my trip to Ireland, I had the pleasure of meeting Sir Maurice O'Connell as we talked about his two whiskey brands - The Liberator and Lakeview Estate. I was fascinated by his family's history in smuggling and his ancestor Daniel O'Connell who is known as the Liberator. We'll take a look back at that history and then dive into a discussion about his unique bonded warehouse, where he gets his barrels, and how he is using Killarney grain to make his whiskey.

Did you know North Carolina has a long history of making whiskey? Join me as I chat with Jason and Jeanne Queen who are bringing back that old tradition, while preserving a grist mill that goes back to the very origins of the state of North Carolina. We'll taste their bourbon, talk NC agriculture, and what it takes to start a whiskey brand in the Tarheel State.

Today its time to learn about whiskey certifications, tips for developing strengths as a blind taster, and we'll discuss wine and its influence on whisky - including flavors, finishes, and barrel types. Adam is the General Manager of the Sommelier Company and a Master of Scotch Council of Whiskey Masters as well as a Certified Specialist of Wine Society of Wine Educators. Don't worry, we'll chat bourbon as well. Cheers!

For those that enjoyed the story of Cu Bocan, the ghost dog from the Scottish Highlands, its time to deep dive into some great history and spirits as I chat with Scott Adamson, blender and brand ambassador of Tomatin. Some revealing history around the bourbon barrel in here as well as a great discussion around the history of what was once the biggest distillery in the world.

Enjoy the kickoff of a new year of Whiskey Lore The Interviews