It’s time for another Bourbon Community Roundtable, and we’re diving straight into the tectonic shift that just rocked the industry. In this episode, we dissect the confirmed mutual interest between Brown-Forman and Pernod Ricard. Following the massive news of Gallo’s acquisition of Four Roses, we’re debating what this level of consolidation means for the “little guy” and whether craft producers are about to get squeezed off the shelf entirely. We’re navigating the anxiety surrounding job security and brand identity, wondering if icons like Old Forester and Woodford Reserve can maintain their soul under Pernod’s management. We’re breaking down the hype, the heartbreak, and the reality of a changing landscape in 2026. Pour a glass and join the conversation.

Show Notes:

• In-depth analysis of the Brown-Forman and Pernod Ricard merger
• Discussion on distribution effects for smaller whiskey brands
• Concerns regarding Brown-Forman’s community contributions and local charities
• Insights into the future of Old Forester and Woodford Reserve
• Speculation on changes in Kentucky Derby sponsorships

(more…)

It’s time for another Bourbon Community Roundtable, and we’re handing the reins over to our Patreon supporters to see what’s actually on your minds. We’re pulling back the curtain on our chaotic group chat to debate the “Dusty” vs. Modern era and why some single barrel picks just hit different. Ryan is still leading the charge for high-proof heat, while Blake breaks down why balance is the only thing that keeps a brand relevant in a crowded market. We’re also digging into the finished whiskey craze and what the latest round of distillery consolidations means for your wallet. At the end of the day, we’re looking past the labels to find the soul of the industry. Does a great story still trump a massive marketing budget? We’re breaking down the trends, the hype, and the reality of being an enthusiast in 2026. Pour a glass and join the conversation.

Show Notes:

• The art of cocktail creativity: Best unexpected spirit swaps
• Are finished barrel whiskeys a fleeting trend?
• Insights on modern bottling techniques and the revival of “Dusty” bottles
• How distillery consolidation impacts consumer choices
• High-proof spirits: Preference shifts and cocktail accessibility
• The journey of craft distilleries and the stories behind their creations
• The role of storytelling in enriching the bourbon experience

(more…)

It’s time for another Bourbon Community Roundtable, and the panel is locked, loaded, and ready to talk about the one number that drives every enthusiast crazy: The Proof. We look at how we all start with those easy-drinking, low-proof staples like Kentucky Tavern before eventually finding ourselves chasing the high-octane allure of barrel-strength pours. We even get into some fun hypotheticals—if you could sample the same bourbon at every proof point from barrel to 80, how would that change your understanding of your favorite brand? Whether you’re a 90-proof purist or a barrel-strength junkie, we’re breaking down why the best bottle on your shelf is ultimately the one that tastes the best to you. Is the industry pushing proof too far, or have we finally found the sweet spot? We’re debating it all.

Show Notes:

• Evolution of bourbon drinking from low proof to high proof
• Insights into how proof affects whiskey blending and flavor
• Discussion on consumer perception of barrel-proof vs. proofed-down expressions
• Exploration of notable brands and their proof characteristics
• Fun hypotheticals regarding proof sampling experiences
• Final thoughts on the importance of proof in the bourbon journey

(more…)

It’s that time of year when we polish off the crystal ball and try to guess exactly where the bourbon industry is headed in 2026. The panel dives into some high-stakes predictions on the rise of exclusive distillery clubs and the portential rise of the craft sector by leaning into Direct-to-Consumer sales. We also get into some scarier territory—think tariffs and the possibility of major distilleries actually pausing production—while others weighs in on the acquisition frenzy that’s continuing to reshape the landscape. We also tackle the death of FOMO on limited releases, the push for even higher-proof offerings, and the wild possibility of NIL deals between universities and distilleries. Will your favorite college quarterback have a signature bottle pick soon? We’re breaking it all down to see how economic and political factors will keep the bourbon scene shaking in the year ahead.

Show Notes:

• Bourbon Pursuit explores 2026 predictions for the bourbon industry
• Insights on the future of distillery clubs and exclusive consumer offers
• Discussion on tariff impacts and potential production pauses
• The rising prominence of craft distilleries and direct sales strategies
• Evolution of FOMO among bourbon consumers
• Speculation on NIL partnerships within the bourbon sector
• Insights into how GLP-1 medications might affect drinking habits
• Reflections on past predictions and the industry’s direction

(more…)

It’s the end of the year and that means we get to rattle off all of our favorite whiskeys this year. But it’s not just us, it’s the entire roundtable. We don’t talk about our “Bourbon of the Year” but we hit on all the great ones we tried and I don’t want to spoil it, but there’s a ton of good ones so pay attention. And can you believe it… Ryan actually put a honey finish and two american single malts in his list. At this rate, maybe he’ll enjoy amburana in 2026.

Show Notes:

• The standout quality of Bardstown Bourbon Company, particularly Cathedral and Normandy
• Ryan’s insights on Redemption 18-Year and its market implications
• Exploration of craft distilleries pushing the envelope with innovative offerings
• Engaging conversations around honey-finished bourbons and the evolving perception of American single malts
• Predictions for trends shaping the whiskey market in the near future

(more…)

It’s the end of the year and that means we get to rattle off all of our favorite whiskeys this year. But it’s not just us, it’s the entire roundtable. We don’t talk about our “Bourbon of the Year” but we hit on all the great ones we tried and I don’t want to spoil it, but there’s a ton of good ones so pay attention. And can you believe it… Ryan actually put a honey finish and two american single malts in his list. At this rate, maybe he’ll enjoy amburana in 2026.

Show Notes:

• The standout quality of Bardstown Bourbon Company, particularly Cathedral and Normandy
• Ryan’s insights on Redemption 18-Year and its market implications
• Exploration of craft distilleries pushing the envelope with innovative offerings
• Engaging conversations around honey-finished bourbons and the evolving perception of American single malts
• Predictions for trends shaping the whiskey market in the near future

(more…)

This is the follow-up you asked for! We’re back with Bourbon Community Roundtable number 112 to continue tackling the “spicy” and controversial topic of the three-tier distribution system. Last time, we were bombarded with questions in the chat, so this episode is dedicated to answering your submissions.

Our panel dives into how consumers can actually help their favorite smaller brands get distribution, offering real-world advice on retailer outreach and using social media for buzz. We then dissect what massive political or economic shift would be required to see meaningful reform. Finally, we debate the powerful question: if the whole system disappeared tomorrow, who would win—the hustling craft distilleries or the heritage brands with deep pockets?. This one is packed with high-stakes debate!

Show Notes:

• A follow-up discussion on the three-tier distribution system, specifically addressing consumer-submitted questions
• Actionable ways consumers can help their favorite spirits brands get distribution, including direct retailer outreach and using social media to generate buzz
• An explanation of LibDib as an alternative, smaller avenue to market, particularly useful for single barrel programs and single-customer orders
• Analysis of the necessary political or economic shifts required for meaningful three-tier system reform
• The argument that major change is unlikely unless a strong economic interest or consumer-driven demand (similar to Uber or the push for cannabis legalization) forces it
• Discussion of the potential for a parallel direct-to-consumer (DTC) shipping system for spirits, mirroring the progress made in the wine industry following the Granholme v. Heald case
• A deep-dive debate on which segment of the industry—”hustling” craft distilleries or heritage brands with deep pockets—would adapt faster if the three-tier system were to disappear
• The argument that the biggest organizations control the power dynamic and maintain the status quo to protect their existing turf
• Encouragement for consumers to advocate for change by reaching out to their congressmen and congresswomen
• Support this podcast on Patreon

(more…)

Oh, this is a good one, y’all. We hit on one of the most polarizing and divisive topics that is in our world today, and that’s distribution. Love it, hate it, whatever you want, it doesn’t matter, it’s not going anywhere, and it is the system that we are currently in because of the history of Prohibition, and you’re going to learn about that and more. Plus, we’re going to start hitting on our own trials and tribulations of living through the three-tier system and some stories from the front lines. Then we wrap up with what you can do as a consumer to help fight back. Got questions for the next episode? submit them at https://brbn.at/q112

Show Notes:

• The origins and implications of the three-tier distribution system
• Prohibition’s influence on alcohol distribution practices
• The complexities of distiller-distributor relationships
• Challenges faced by craft distillers in a corporate-centric market
• The role of consumer demand in shaping retail preferences
• Calls for modernization of the distribution model
• Ways for consumers to support their favorite small brands
• Encouragement for listeners to engage and share the podcast
• Support this podcast on Patreon

(more…)

The idea of sourcing has been around a very long time but it’s a new concept for some while it’s old hat for some. Are we at the point where sourcing is more widely accepted? What’s it going to take to overcome it? Knowing that we are going to see an abundance of available sources here real soon, will it become more popular? Or even maybe more popular than distilling your own?

Show Notes:

• Introduction of the crew and warm-up music discussion
• Insights on the changing bourbon landscape and consumer perceptions
• Has the stigma around sourced whiskey faded
• The importance of educating consumers on sourcing versus distilling
• Discussion on the uniqueness of sourced products vs. commodity whiskey
• The role of flavor profiles in a saturated market
• Forecasts for innovation in sourcing whiskey
• Celebrating the contributions of Non-Distilling Producers
• Potential future trends and the rise of new brands
• Emphasis on consumer engagement and storytelling in the whiskey industry
• Support this podcast on Patreon

(more…)

In this episode of the Bourbon Pursuit Podcast, we’re getting down to business. We’re joined by a panel of industry heavyweights—Fred Minnick, our very own Ryan Cecil, Nick from Breaking Bourbon, and Blake from Sealbox—to take on the very serious and complex situation surrounding Uncle Nearest.

We’re diving headfirst into the new lawsuit from Farm Credit, which alleges Uncle Nearest defaulted on over $100 million in loans, citing financial mismanagement and inflated barrel inventory. The discussion gets real, as our panel unpacks the legal jargon and business strategies, putting a spotlight on how a prior CFO’s actions have complicated the entire case.

We’ll analyze what a federal judge’s ruling for receivership could mean for the distillery and its co-founders, Fawn and Keith Weaver. We also reflect on how the rapid growth of the bourbon market post-pandemic might have contributed to this crisis and how a breakdown in communication between the distillery and its lender fueled the fire.

Finally, we’ll tackle listener questions and talk about the emotional weight of this case on the people who support the brand, showing why the implications of this go far beyond just one company. This one is a must-listen.

Show Notes:

• Overview of Uncle Nearest’s lawsuit from Farm Credit Mid-America
• Discussion on allegations of financial mismanagement and inflated inventory reporting
• Implications of the receivership ruling on the distillery’s operations
• Analysis of financial trends and recklessness in the bourbon industry
• Insights on the founders’ stories in the context of American whiskey history
• Speculation about the brand’s future and community impact
• Audience engagement and reflections on the significance of the case
• Support this podcast on Patreon

(more…)