Bourbon Lens

In this episode of Bourbon Lens, Jake and Scott take the podcast on the road to Loretto, Kentucky, home of the iconic Maker’s Mark Distillery. Recorded on-site, we sit down with Dr. Blake Layfield, Master Distiller, and Beth Buckner, Lead Blender, to dive deep into the storied past and exciting future of the Maker’s Mark brand. Together, we explore how Maker’s Mark continues to honor its traditional roots while innovating for the next generation. From the introduction of the distillery’s first new mashbills in decades to the debut of Star Hill Farm Whisky, a brand new wheat whiskey, this conversation highlights a pivotal moment in the brand’s evolution. We also discuss Maker’s commitment to craftsmanship, sustainability at Star Hill Farm, and how the team balances heritage with creativity. Whether you're a longtime Maker’s fan or just getting into wheated bourbons, this episode offers unique insights from two of the people shaping the future of one of Kentucky’s most beloved distilleries. Listen now to hear how tradition meets innovation at Maker’s Mark. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform, and if you enjoy what you hear, we’d love for you to leave us a review. We’re incredibly grateful for your continued support over the past six years. A special thank you goes out to our amazing community of Patreon supporters—your support helps keep Bourbon Lens going strong! If you’re enjoying the podcast, consider leaving a 5-star rating, writing a quick review, and sharing the show with a fellow bourbon enthusiast. You can follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X. Want to go a step further? Support us on Patreon for exclusive behind-the-scenes content, Bourbon Lens swag, access to our Tasting Club, and more. Have questions, feedback, or guest suggestions? Drop us a line at [email protected]. Explore BourbonLens.com for blog posts, the latest whiskey news, our full podcast archive, and detailed whiskey reviews. Cheers, Scott & Jake Bourbon Lens  (Image Credit: Clay Cook)

In this episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, Jake sits down with Jason Johnstone-Yellin, co-founder of Single Cask Nation, to explore the world of independent bottling. Jason shares the story behind the brand, the art of selecting unique casks, and how Single Cask Nation builds transparency and trust with its community of whisky lovers. From Scotch to American Whiskey and beyond, Jason discusses how Single Cask Nation navigates the global spirits market, cultivates relationships with distilleries, and continues to push the boundaries of what independent bottlers can offer. Whether you’re a seasoned whisky enthusiast or just discovering the world of single casks, this conversation dives deep into what makes this niche so exciting. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X.  Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens  

In this week’s episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, Jake and Scott raise a glass to Frey Ranch Distillery as they unveil the 10th Anniversary Harvester Series. The duo dives into the history of Frey Ranch, explores the innovation behind this milestone release, and shares stories from years of collaboration and friendship with the Frey Ranch team. Listeners will get an inside look at what makes Frey Ranch’s grain-to-glass approach so unique, how the Harvester Series stands out in the market, and why this Nevada-based distillery continues to be a fan favorite in the American whiskey landscape. A huge thank you to the entire team at Frey Ranch Distillery for their support and friendship over the years. Congratulations on a decade of excellence and community impact—cheers to the next 10 years! Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X.  Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens

Jake travels down 1-64 to Lexington to see the new RD1 Distillery Brand Home. While there, he sits down with co-founder and National Brand Ambassador Barry Brinegar. Sit back and buckle into the latest episode of the bourbon lens. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we’d appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X.  Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens Visit RD1 Distillery at The Commons Following a ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 13, RD1 Distillery at The Commons is now open: Monday–Thursday: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Friday–Saturday: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Sunday: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. Located at 113 Turner Commons Way, Suite 110, Lexington, KY 40508, online reservations are recommended. The distillery also offers space for private events, accommodating up to 100 guests. Contact [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) for bookings. Visit RD1spirits.com or follow @RD1spirits on Facebook and Instagram for more. About RD1 Spirits Based in Lexington, Kentucky, RD1 Spirits exists to explore the bourbon frontier. Lexington entrepreneurs founded the company in 2020 to help give life to the stories of Lexington’s bourbon firsts, namely its first federally registered distillery, established in 1865. RD1 is paving its own path, focusing on Kentucky Straight Bourbon and its interaction with various wood finishings in the barrel. For more information on this growing brand, visit RD1spirits.com or follow @RD1spirits on Facebook and Instagram.

In this week’s episode of the Bourbon Lens, Jake sits down with one of the original ultra premium bourbons: Joseph A Magnus.  We are joined by CEO of Craft Co Ali Anderson and world renowned blender Nancy Fraley.  You won’t want to miss this episode as we unpack the history of Joseph Magnus, Murray Hill Club and the original Cigar Blend. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X.  Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens   About Ali Anderson: Ali Anderson is the CEO of CraftCo, a diverse portfolio of innovative, premium craft spirits brands produced in Holland, MI. Prior to taking on the role in June 2024, Ali served as the National Sales Director at CraftCo since 2019 and was responsible for spearheading the commercial growth strategy and national expansion of all CraftCo's premium spirit brands from launch to maturity, including strategic initiatives to drive consumer engagement and brand equity growth and the innovation and launch of two new whiskey brands to the national stage. She also led the development of strategic agency relationships, delivering impactful execution in response to an increasingly demanding marketplace. Previously, Ali served as the General Manager and Director of Sales at Jos. A. Magnus & Co. In 2015, she was pivotal in re-establishing the historic, pre-Prohibition brand in Washington, D.C., overseeing sales and operations to grow from start-up phase to national distribution and transforming the company into the most highly awarded and widely distributed brand of the CraftCo portfolio. Ali earned her MBA from Webster University in St. Louis, her Bachelor of Science degree in Management from Ball State University and recently completed the DISCUS Executive Leadership Program at the University of Kentucky Gatton College of Business & Economics. Ali's ongoing commitment to professional development and industry engagement underscores her dedication to driving innovation and creating value in the spirits industry.   About Nancy Fraley Nancy Fraley serves as the Master Blender for Jos. A. Magnus, where she provides custom blending, product formulation services, creation of maturation & warehousing programs, and sensory analysis. An icon in the world of whiskey, her contributions have led to the creation of numerous award-winning spirits for the brand, including Joseph Magnus Bourbon, Murray Hill Club Bourbon Blend and the most coveted of the Magnus expressions, Joseph Magnus Cigar Blend Bourbon. Nancy’s career in the distilled spirits industry began with Germain-Robin brandy/Alambic Inc. in Ukiah, CA, one of the first craft distilleries in the U.S. From there, she went on to further study advanced blending techniques in France. In addition to her role at Jos. A. Magnus, Nancy holds a faculty position at Moonshine University in Louisville, KY and is the creator of the popular seminar, Blending and Nosing for Faults, with the American Distilling Institute. She is the creator of the first American Craft Whiskey Aroma Wheel, a sensory tool now widely used by distillers and whiskey connoisseurs alike. Nancy holds a Master’s degree in World Religions with an emphasis in Tibetan Buddhism from Harvard University and a Juris doctor degree from The University of San Francisco School of Law with a focus on Maritime & Admiralty law and International Human Rights.  

In this episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, Jake and Scott dive into the growing trend of tequila cask-finished American Whiskeys. The conversation highlights three standout new bottles: Angel’s Envy Cellar Collection Vol. 5 Tequila Cask Finish, Blood Oath Pact 11, and Woodinville Tequila Finished Bourbon.  It's the perfect podcast to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. The hosts explore how finishing bourbon in tequila barrels affects aroma, flavor, and overall complexity—bringing out vibrant citrus, vegetal agave notes, and a unique sweetness not typically found in traditional bourbon and rye. They also discuss the influence American Whiskey has had on tequila producers in return, noting an emerging trend of American whiskey barrel-aged tequilas. Whether you're a bourbon purist or a fan of innovation in whiskey, this episode offers a thoughtful tasting journey through the intersection of two iconic spirits: tequila and whiskey Featured Whiskeys: Angel’s Envy Cellar Collection Vol. 5 Tequila Cask Finish Blood Oath Pact 11 Woodinville Tequila Finished Bourbon Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. Leave us a review if you’re enjoying the show! Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X.  Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens

In our latest episode of the Bourbon Lens, Jake travels to Bardstown to sit down with John Rempe, Master Distiller of Lux Row. During the interview the distillery was electric as their Front Row members were awaiting some of the first sips of the new Blood Oath Pact 11 release.  Our conversation centered around the new bourbon finished in anejo Tequila barrels. However, there is a lot happening at the distillery as they continue to become a household name across the world.  Sit back and buckle in for the latest episode of the Bourbon Lens. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X.  Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens     About John Rempe At Lux Row Distillers, we have a passion for craft. We’re a blend of different personalities bound together by a love of bourbon. When trying to describe John E. Rempe’s relationship with bourbon, the word “passion” doesn’t come close. John, a certified food scientist with a bachelor’s degree in biology from St. Louis University and over 25 years of experience in distillation of spirits, has been at the forefront of crafting world-class bourbons in the company’s award-winning portfolio. He has created brands like David Nicholson Reserve, Rebel 10-year, and the ultra-premium Blood Oath series, and has also been heavily involved in the oversight of Luxco’s award-winning bourbon portfolio, which includes the Rebel Bourbon, Ezra Brooks, David Nicholson, Daviess County and Blood Oath bourbon families. He may have a favorite bourbon in the distillery’s lineup, but that’s a secret he’ll never tell. About LuxCo Founded in St. Louis in 1958 by the Lux Family, Luxco is a leading producer, supplier, importer and bottler of beverage alcohol products. Our mission is to meet the needs and exceed the expectations of consumers, associates and business partners. Merged with MGP Ingredients, Inc. in 2021 (Nasdaq: MGPI), Luxco operates as MGP’s Brands Division and manages all MGP/Luxco brands. This extensive and award-winning spirits portfolio includes well-known brands from four distilleries: Bardstown, Kentucky-based Lux Row Distillers, home of Ezra Brooks, Rebel, Blood Oath, David Nicholson and Daviess County; Lebanon, Kentucky-based Limestone Branch Distillery, maker of Yellowstone Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Minor Case Straight Rye Whiskey and Bowling & Burch Gin; Jalisco, Mexico-based Destiladora González Lux, producer of 100% agave tequilas, El Mayor, Exotico and Dos Primos; and Ross & Squibb Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, where Remus Straight Bourbon Whiskey and Rossville Union Straight Rye Whiskey are produced. The innovative and high-quality brand portfolio also includes Penelope Bourbon, Everclear Grain Alcohol, Pearl Vodka, Saint Brendan’s Irish Cream, The Quiet Man Irish Whiskey, Green Hat Gin and other well-recognized brands. For more information about the company and its brands, visit luxco.com. About Rebel Bourbon: Distilled in Bardstown, Kentucky, by Lux Row Distillers Master Distiller John Rempe, Rebel Bourbon features a wheated mash bill that is true to its original recipe dating back to 1849. Known for its smoother, sweeter flavor, highlighted by delicious caramel and vanilla flavor notes, Rebel celebrates the “Rebel spirit in all of us” – especially those who embrace freedom, defiance and a little attitude. In 2023, Rebel Bourbon 10 Year Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey was awarded a gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and a Double Platinum ASCOT award. The brand’s Rebel 100 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey was awarded gold medals at the 2023 SIP and ASCOT awards.

In this week’s episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, Jake sits down one-on-one with Tripp Stimson, Chief Whiskey Scientist at Barrell Craft Spirits. This in-depth conversation takes listeners behind the scenes of one of the most innovative non-distilling producers (NDPs) in American whiskey. The Art of Blending at Barrell Craft Spirits Tripp unpacks what sets Barrell apart in a crowded whiskey market, especially its blender-first approach to crafting high-quality, small batch and single barrel releases. Listeners will get an insider’s view of how Barrell sources and blends its whiskey, and how its team maintains consistency and creativity across each unique release. Addressing the Rumors Jake and Tripp also dive into some of the rumors surrounding Barrell Craft Spirits, including its long-term plans in the bourbon world. Spotlight on New Releases: Foundation and Toasted Vantage This episode also covers Barrell's exciting Double Barrel Foundation Release, a core expression of the brand’s identity, as well as the Toasted Vantage Limited Release. Tripp shares how these expressions were conceptualized and what makes them special additions to the Barrell portfolio. Whether you're a whiskey nerd, collector, or new to the category, this episode offers a compelling look at one of the most respected names in American craft whiskey. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X.  Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens

In this week’s episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, Jake and Scott take you inside their exclusive VIP private blending experience at J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky. From hands-on barrel sampling to creating custom bourbon blends, this immersive experience is a must for any whiskey enthusiast. A special thanks goes out to Amy Preske for arranging this memorable day, and to Dakota and the entire J. Mattingly team for the warm hospitality and deep knowledge of bourbon blending. The episode also touches on the recent severe weather in Kentucky, including destructive tornadoes, historic flooding, and other storms that have deeply affected communities across the Commonwealth. If you'd like to support Kentucky disaster relief efforts, here are some trusted organizations: Team Kentucky Relief Fund American Red Cross – Kentucky Region Franklin County Emergency Management Kentucky Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (KY VOAD) Listen now as we sip our unique whiskey blends. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X.  Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens    

In this latest episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, Jake sits down with Julie Macklowe, the founder of The MACKLOWE, known as the first luxury American Single Malt Whiskey. During the episode, they taste both the American Single Malt and Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey releases from The MACKLOWE, discussing the unique qualities that set these spirits apart in the world of whiskey. Julie shares her insights on building a successful whiskey brand, her deep passion for high-quality spirits, and how The MACKLOWE stands out in an increasingly competitive market. They also dive into the current state of the whiskey industry and discuss trends shaping the future of premium spirits. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast app and be sure to drop us a review while you’re there.  We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written review, and tell a fellow bourbon lover about our show. Follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X.  Also, consider supporting Bourbon Lens on Patreon for some of the behind the scenes, to earn Bourbon Lens swag, join the Bourbon Lens Tasting Club, and more. If you have any comments, questions, or guest suggestions, please email us at [email protected]. Check out BourbonLens.com to find our blog posts, whiskey news, podcast archive, and whiskey reviews. Cheers,Scott and JakeBourbon Lens Image Credit: The MACKLOWE Whiskey