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In this conversation, Drew Hannush interviews Dr. Pat Heist, co-founder of Wilderness Trail Distillery, exploring the journey from a small farmhouse distillery to a significant player in the whiskey industry. They discuss the scientific approach to distilling, the impact of the Renewable Fuels Act, the evolution of fermentation practices, and the importance of data collection in whiskey production. Dr. Heist shares insights on the sweet mash process, the challenges of scaling operations, and the future of whiskey innovation.

TAKEAWAYS

• Wilderness Trail Distillery started as a small farmhouse distillery.
• Dr. Pat Heist and Shane Baker's partnership began in rock and roll.
• Firm Solutions was established during the 2006 economic crisis.
• The Renewable Fuels Act significantly impacted the distilling industry.
• Fuel ethanol production shares similarities with whiskey production.
• The distillery focuses on scientific methods in fermentation.
• Wilderness Trail has expanded its operations significantly since inception.
• Data collection is crucial for understanding whiskey production variations.
• Sweet mash production is a key focus for Wilderness Trail.
• The distillery aims to innovate and improve whiskey quality.

Hear an extended version at whiskey-lore.com/patreon