Bourbon has a rich history but if you’re drinking bourbon right now, you’re not doing it because you just found out that a new category like single barrel was created. There are many moments that have now defined modern bourbon culture that have exponentially grown the category in the past 20 years. In this episode, Ryan, Fred, and myself come with a list of moments that we dive into and give our thoughts on what this meant. Some things we hit on are the high-end releases of Willett and the Antique Collection that spur super enthusiasts, how Maker’s made national headlines from a proof change, and how social media has changed the landscape forever.

Show Notes:

• Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the future of Bardstown Bourbon Company.
• What did Four Roses do to help build bourbon?
• What started the hyper whiskey geek attitude?
• What special releases changed the landscape of bourbon?
• How did Brown Forman take Woodford and Old Forester and resurrect the brands?
• Did the proof debacle from Maker’s make a big moment?
• When did the bourbon media or message boards start making an impact?
• How did secondary markets on facebook boost the category?
• Do we feel something like Mad Men was a pivotal moment?
• Pappygate took national headlines
• How was Marianne being named the first woman master distillery play a role?
• What lawsuits defined it?
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