Beneath The Char: Recent Episodes
Beneath the Char
Join us as we chat with Tommy Tardie! Tommy runs three incredibly successful companies that are all whiskey centric. The first restaurant he started was The Flatiron Room, which just won 2021's Best Whiskey Bar in America! He then started another successful Restaurant (Fine & Rare) before jumping into the coffee world. This is a conversation about passion, innovation, creativity, and persistence. Can't wait for everyone to get to know Tommy better!
Interested in learning more about NYC's fastest growing whiskey distillery? Tune in now to hear Colin and Ryan talk about Kings County and what they're building in the heart of Brooklyn! Fun conversation with two gentlemen pursuing their passions!
Join us as we chat with Artisanal Distiller, Jodie Filiatreau! Jodie has been a part of the Heaven Hill family since 1981. He currently serves as the Artisanal Distiller at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience in Louisville, KY. Jodie has many incredible stories while working his way up at Heaven Hill. Toward the end, he'll tell you what are some must buys if you're justing getting into whiskey! Enjoy!
Join us as we chat with Murphy Quint, Master Distiller at Cedar Ridge Distillery. Murphy and his team are putting Iowa whiskey on the map. Listen in to learn more about what makes their whiskey special, why they partnered with Slipknot on an incredible whiskey, and their dreams for the future. This is an episode you will not want to miss!
Lisa Roper Wicker has had one of the more interesting journeys into the bourbon world and is taking the industry by storm. Winner of multiple awards, she is producing high quality whiskey with a passion for doing it the right way. This is one of our favorite conversations we've had to date!
Join us as we chat with the Founder of New Riff Distilling. After running an incredibly successful liquor store for many year, Ken is committed to producing excellent whiskey in one of the most incredible ways. This is an episode that you will not want to miss.
Join as we chat with Jane Bowie--Director of Innovation at Maker's Mark. Jane is doing incredible things and has had one of the most interesting journeys in the whiskey world that we've had the chance to learn about. If you're a fan of Maker's Mark, this is a must listen!
Join us as we chat with Freddie Noe--8th generation distiller at Jim Beam! Freddie has such a wealth of experience in the whiskey industry and shares many incredible stories in this particular episode. This is an episode you will not want to miss!
If you're a fan of Sazerac products like us, this is an episode you will not want to miss. Join us as we speak with Danny Kahn, Master Distiller for Barton 1792! Danny has had an incredibly interesting path to the whiskey world. He started as an expert in the beer world and has been making excellent whiskey since 2018. We loved our time with Danny and hope you enjoy the conversation as much as we did!
Join us as we speak with Conor O'Driscoll--Master Distiller for Heaven Hill. Learn more about his transition from pharmaceuticals to the world of bourbon and why he is distilling whiskey versus brewing Guinness in Dublin! He's maintaining the tradition and excellence of brands like Elijah Craig, Larceny, Pikesville Rye, Evan Williams, and so many more. This is a conversation you will not want to miss!
Chris Morris knows whiskey. As the second Master Distiller at the Woodford Reserve Distillery, Chris was an integral character in the development of Woodford Reserve. As head Master Distiller of one of the world’s fastest growing bourbons, he spends his days innovating and planning future releases.
The mastermind behind Woodford Reserve Double Oaked, Rye, and Master’s Collection, Chris knows the keys to making good whiskey are time and patience, but having a sense of good craftsmanship is also a talent that goes a long way.
Chris began his career in bourbon in 1976 as a trainee in Brown-Forman’s central lab. In 1997, he found himself as an understudy to Lincoln Henderson, Woodford Reserve’s Inaugural Master Distiller, who in 2003 Chris succeeded. In the years that followed, Chris was responsible for creating the world’s first bourbon finished in Chardonnay and Pinot Noir Barrels. He’s also credited with developing the world’s first maple barrel; a difficult feat made easier when you command your own cooperage.
Join us as we speak with Chris and learn more about his passions and hear many incredible stories!
Ariel Jahn is the Woodinville Development Manager for Woodinville Whiskey Co. In her role, she is responsible for managing a team of Brand Ambassadors, implementing yearly marketing programs, and supporting sales efforts in the market. She will support regional program managers (MHUSA) in execution and implementation of the brand’s strategy of driving awareness, education and engagement with both the trade and consumers alike.
Join us for a fun conversation to learn more about Ariel and the great whiskey coming out of the state of Washington!
Join us as we chat with Alex Castle--Master Distiller at Old Dominick. This is a conversation full of heart, candor, innovation, and intrigue. Alex is doing incredible things at this Memphis-based distillery and following her dreams! Tune in and learn why folks are talking so positively about what Alex and her team are doing.
Join us as we chat with Dr. Pat Heist--co-founder of Ferm Solutions & Wilderness Trail Distillery. Dr. Pat is one of the most knowledgeable people we have ever spoken with. Listen in as he educates us on all things whiskey while sprinkling in so many incredible hilarious moments!
Join us as we talk to NHL Hall of Famer Ed Belfour and his son, Dayn Belfour, to learn about their new whiskey venture. This conversation is packed with passion, humor, and excitement. Learn more about Belfour Spirits, what's currently cooking, and what they're excited about for the future!
Join us as we chat with Drew Holcomb! Drew is a passionate musician, a bourbon nerd, and a dedicated father and husband to his wife and three children. This is a fun conversation about why he loves music, what he's currently drinking, and why he chose to invest in Sweeten's Cove. It's one of the more memorable conversations we've had recently, and you'll quickly see why it's a must listen! To learn more about Drew and his music, check out his website here: https://www.drewholcomb.com/.
Join us as we chat with Clay Risen! Clay is a journalist for the New York Times, a historian, and a devout whiskey enthusiast. Having authored several books about whiskey, Clay is an expert on what makes whiskey special. This is a conversation that dives deep into Clay's passion for writing, whiskey, and good 'ol stories. Join us with a glass of Blanton's or Elijah Craig!
Bruce Buffer is the internationally renowned sports and entertainment announcer, best known for his work around the world over the last 25 years as the “Voice of the UFC Octagon” announcer for the Ultimate Fighting Championship. Bruce's is also known for his famous catchphrase is "It's Time!” which he announces before the main event of the UFC and other events around the world. Bruce also enjoys his favorite hobbies, poker and surfing, and lives by the motto, “Warrior Spirit Forever”!
Join us to find out more as to why he helped start Puncher's Chance Bourbon and hear which fighter he think embodies the bourbon most! This is an incredibly fun conversation that will leave you wanting to learn more. Cheers, y'all!
Founded back in 1997, Trey and Chet Zoeller wanted to be innovative with whiskey when whiskey wasn't even hot yet! Fast forward 24 years, and they are a household name. Join us as we chat with Trey Zoeller and learn more about his passions, why he started Jefferson's with his father, and what he's excited about for the future! Enjoy!
Join us for our first in-person interview with Founder and CEO Michael Myers and Head Distiller Eric Jett. This is a special episode that is funny, vulnerable, informative, and full of tears. Distillery 291 is creating something truly special. This is a must listen episode!
Join us as we speak to David Altrogge, the film director for the incredible documentary, "Neat." We are huge fans of this film and feel incredibly honored to be speaking to one of the people behind the film. It's a must see documentary, and this is a must listen episode! If you would like to learn more about the film itself, go to: http://www.thebourbonfilm.com/.
On today's episode, we had the pleasure of sitting down with James Davenport and Mike Hinds from Nashville Barrel Company. Their story is one that can inspire all of us as they took their love of whiskey and friendship and decided to start a whiskey business that puts out some delicious varieties that folks are seeking out! Join us to learn more about them and what they're up to!
Better known in the Reddit world as t8ke, Jay West is the Managing Editor and Spirits Critic for WhiskeyRaiders.com - a new, novel, whiskey review website. Whiskey Raiders focuses on bringing trusted reviews through the voice of Jay, combined with aggregating the scores and thoughts of the whiskey world's other top publications to create a one stop shop for anyone reading about whiskey. Jay's reviewed almost 2,000 bottles, and tried many more in his time writing about spirits.
This is a fun conversation that you will not want to miss!
The story of Starlight Distillery dates back to the 1800's. It's a story of passion, tradition, and purpose--all from a rural town in Indiana. Listen in as these two brothers tell their own stories and the larger story of their family's business.
https://www.huberwinery.com/starlight-distillery/
This is a story of true craftsmanship, passion, and purpose. Started as a passion project, Owen and his partner continue to run Locke + Co in a way that honors others and the incredible history of great whiskey. Looking to learn more about a great distillery that is doing things with their hands and making delicious whiskey? If so, tune in now!
Join us as we talk with McCauley Williams! In this episode, we learn more about Memphis, the Blues, and why B.R. Distilling is trying to honor the legacy of what it means to be a Memphian! This is a fun conversation that is compelling and will make you want to find a bottle of Blue Note Bourbon or Riverset Rye!
Interested in an authentic conversation from a true southerner about his journey into the whiskey world? If so, this is the episode for you! Justin Manglitz has spent over 20 years perfecting his skills and creating new and delicious craft spirits to enjoy. He's now bringing those energies to ASW! This is a must listen!
Looking to make a cocktail for your love? Or just looking to listen to an expert talk about making cocktails? Then this is an episode you will not want to miss! Mel Maddox is a leader in the craft cocktail movement, and she walks us through making two different cocktails. We are also joined by our wives for the episode! We hope you listen and enjoy!
Prohibition Crafts Spirits came to life after one of the founders ran off with all the money... That's not a joke. Join us for one of the wildest stories related to bourbon, passion, and purpose that we've had in a long time. Chase loves what he does and walks us through his story in an engaging and passionate manner! This is one you will not want to miss!
We are closing this series out in a special way by chatting with Greg Eidam who is the master distiller at Sugarland Distilling Company and Roaming Man Whiskey. Greg has enjoyed immense success in his work in the moonshine world, but he's always remained passionate about delicious tasting whiskey. He represents the best parts of East Tennessee and the Appalachian Mountains, and this is a conversation you will not want to miss! And if you haven't heard of their Rye Whiskey, it's a MUST! Enjoy!
Looking for a passionate conversation about community, relationships, persistence, fighting against the odds, and great stories about an innovative and tasty whiskey? Then look no further. Tim Piersant is the co-founder of Chattanooga Whiskey, which is producing a Tennessee High Malt--the first of its kind! He shares some incredible stories, opens up about some of the challenges he has been through, and discusses some of the exciting things you can expect from Chattanooga Whiskey in the near future! Enjoy!
Join us as we launch our Tennessee Whiskey series with Charlie Nelson from Nelson's Greenbrier Distillery. Home to both Nelson's Greenbrier Tennessee Whiskey and Belle Meade bourbon, Charlie's story is one of the all-time greats! He and his brother Andy have revitalized their great great great grandfather's distillery from back in the 1800's! Listen in to find out how they stumbled upon learning that their triple great grandfather was a distiller and how that launched their passion for creating that same delicious TN whiskey!
Join us as we chat with Jordan from Breaking Bourbon, Bill from Bill Binder III, Blake from Bourbonr, Travis from Overpriced Bourbon, Brian from Sippn Corn, and Matt from Wrestling with Whiskey. This is an amazing conversation about passion, purpose, and the role these folks take when it comes to the whiskey world. This is a MUST LISTEN!
Join us as we chat with Julia from Women Who Whiskey, Landon from The Brothers Bourbon, Danielle from Coffee Black Whiskey Neat, Charles from Bourbon Man and Bourbon Charity, Pappy from Pappy Van Montrachet, and Steve from Berman's Bourbon. It's a lighthearted and honest conversation about their role in the whiskey world. It's one you will not want to miss!
Please join us as we chat with John Edwards from Dad's Drinking Bourbon, Jackie James, Mike Puma from Gotham Burger Social Club, and LaShana Daniels from For the Cocktail Culture. It's a fascinating conversation about passion and influence from leaders in the whiskey world!
Interested in hearing a story of a family pursuing a passion around whiskey in Kansas City? If so, this is a must listen! This is a story of passion, a story of family, and a story of pursuing your dreams out in the midwest. Such an inspiring and enjoyable listen!
Join us as we talk to Michael Paladini, CEO & Co-Founder, of Penelope Bourbon. This is a story of family and heart and how those things combined lead to a great whiskey. This is an episode you will not want to miss!
Join us as we chat with Founder and Master Blender/Taster, Sean Josephs, from Pinhook Bourbon. This episode is a reminder of what can occur when you follow your dreams relentlessly. Looking for some inspiration? This is a must listen. Looking for some wisdom on whiskey from one of the wisest minds out there? This is a must listen. We hope you enjoy it as much as we did!
Join us as we speak with Chris Fletcher, newly appointed Master Distiller at Jack Daniel Distillery. If you have an appreciation for Jack Daniel's whiskey and want to hear the story behind their Master Distiller and a bit about the distillery itself, this is an episode that you will not want to miss!
Join us for our Bourbon Heritage Series Finale as we talk with Old Forester's Master Taster, Jackie Zykan. This is one of our most informative and entertaining podcasts to date. If you're looking to learn, laugh, and be inspired, this is a MUST listen!
Join us as we speak with Brent Elliott--Master Distiller at Four Roses. Brent is a fantastic storyteller and one of the most down to Earth guests we have had on the show. The team at Four Roses is producing some of the best bourbon out there, and this is a must listen!
Listen in as whiskey legend, Freddie Johnson, speaks honestly and vulnerably in this unfiltered look into his life and why he is passionate about what he does. We planned to speak with Freddie for 45 minutes, and the conversation lasted nearly two hours. This is a real treat for those that love stories and want to learn from one of the wisest whiskey legends in the industry. Pour yourself a glass and join us as we go Beneath the Char with Freddie Johnson!
Join us as we talk to Bill Samuels, Jr.--a legend in the whiskey industry and a Bourbon Hall of Fame member. Bill helped build and expand the Maker's Mark brand after his mom and dad created a delicious whiskey with a beautiful design. This is one of the most entertaining, informative, and incredible interviews to date.
Join us as we speak to the President of Sagamore Spirit, Brian Treacy! Brian found his way into the whiskey industry after running a successful outdoors activity company in the western part of the United States, and he's put together a team of people that is producing some excellent whiskey and doing some innovative things. Enjoy!
Join us as we speak with Marianne Eaves and learn more about who she is and what drives her! Ever since watching the documentary "Neat," we've been inspired by who Marianne is and what she stands for. If you don't know her story, this is a MUST LISTEN. She's making huge waves across the whiskey industry, and it was an absolute honor to speak with her!
Join us as we speak with Nicole Austin - GM and Master Distiller at Cascade Hollow Distillery, home of George Dickel! Listen in to hear more about Nicole's passion for craft spirits, what drew her to make the move to Cascade Hollow, and what projects she has in store!
Join us today as we speak with the incredible Fawn Weaver, CEO & Chief Historian for Uncle Nearest Distillery. Nearest Green was the first African-American Master Distiller in the United States--though his story was never really told because he was black and a slave for much of his life. He mentored Jack Daniel and ultimately set the foundation for making that brand what it is today. Listen in to hear more about Nathan "Nearest" Green and how Fawn has revitalized his name and his legacy on whiskey through the Uncle Nearest Distillery.
Join us today as we speak with Becky Harris--Master Distiller & Co-Founder of Catoctin Creek Distillery. Becky is as authentic as they get, and her passion for whiskey, craft distilling, and her home state of Virginia is contagious! Enjoy!
Join us as we launch our new series featuring some of the most inspirational female leaders in the industry. Today, we speak with Peggy Noe Stevens who continues to make an impact on the whiskey community. A member of the Bourbon Hall of Fame, Peggy is a thoughtful, caring, passionate, and innovative leader in the industry. This is a must listen!
Michter's Whiskey is one of the most iconic brands hitting the markets right now, and they're story is a fascinating one! Moving the brand from Pennsylvania to Kentucky, John talks about their constant strive for excellence and making a whiskey that tastes unlike any other! This is a must listen!
Tune in as we talk to Smokewagon Bourbon's Master Distiller: Aaron Chepenik! It's an incredibly informative and entertaining conversation that you will not want to miss!
Our episode with Todd Leopold is LIVE TODAY!
This is our FINAL episode in our series highlighting Colorado Whiskey!
Todd Leopold is the Master Distiller and Co-Founder of Leopold Bros in Denver, Colorado. Leopold Bros was recently named a finalist for the prestigious James Beard Foundation award. Todd Leopold received his diploma in Malting & Brewing from the Siebel Institute of Technology in Chicago in 1996. After graduation, he trained at the Doemens School in Munich focusing on the production of lager beers. He has apprenticed at several breweries and distilleries throughout Europe!
Tune in wherever you get your podcasts to hear Todd share more about his life, his own journey from brewing delicious beer to distilling a range of excellent spirits, and what he is excited about for the future!
Please tune in as we chat with Steve Kurowski, Marketing Director for LAWS Whiskey House in Denver, Colorado. LAWS is doing some incredible things with whiskey, and this is a conversation you don't want to miss. We hope you're enjoying the Colorado Series as much as we are!
Tune in as we listen to the incredible soul of Michael Myers. Michael walks us through his time in New York, his experiences with September 11th, how that led him to move to Colorado, and start Distillery 291. This is a MUST listen! Enjoy!
Tune in as we talk with Old Elk's Master Distiller - Greg Metze! Greg has been in this business for over 40 years, produced over 280 million bottles of rye whiskey, and is an incredibly informative, kind, and entertaining guest. We are thrilled to have him join us as we continue with our Colorado Series! Enjoy!
Join us as we talk to Dan Tighe, co-founder and distiller, at Tighe Brothers Distillery in Denver, Colorado. For the next 5 weeks, we will be highlighting distilleries in Colorado and are honored to start with Tighe Brothers. Dan is a passionate individual who got into this work, in part, because of the special relationship he had with his grandfather. We couldn't be more excited to share Dan's story! We hope you enjoy!
Tune in to hear Wes share his passion for whiskey, family, and heritage. Angel's Envy was founded by Wes and his Dad back in 2006. Wes now works with his 4 children and discusses how that plays an important role in how he makes whiskey. Angel's Envy is consistently putting out innovative product, and Wes is an incredibly entertaining guest! We hope you enjoy!
This week we hav the privilege of hearing from Caleb Kilburn - Master Distiller at Kentucky Peerless in Louisville, Kentucky! Kentucky Peerless is doing some innovative things right now, and Caleb is as earnest as they get. You're in for a treat! Starting his career by shoveling gravel during building revival, Caleb Kilburn was named Head Distiller after he proved his attention to detail and precision during the construction of the distillation materials. Caleb was named Master Distiller in 2019 by owner, CEO and Fourth Generation of Peerless Corky Taylor due to his dedication to the craft of the finest Peerless Whiskey.
This week we have the privilege of hearing from Brandon Collins - Master Distiller at Taconic Distillery in upstate New York! Taconic is producing some incredible whiskey right now and Brandon is an amazing guy. Raised in Carlisle, OH, Brandon grew up with a love of chemistry that eventually led to his passion for producing amazing whiskey. After college, he went on to hold a highly coveted Distillery Supervisor position at Buffalo Trace. During his tenure, Buffalo Trace was named “Whiskey Distiller of the Year” in 2014 and “Brand Innovator of the Year” in 2015, by Whisky Magazine’s “Icons of Whisky America." Brandon and his wife relocated to New York in 2017 and he ended up at Taconic shortly after.
Join us as we talk to Bernie Lubbers, Brand Ambassador for Heaven Hill and self-proclaimed whiskey professor!