The Monogram and the Wettest Block: Kansas City's Distilling Heritage

In this episode of the Whiskey Ring Podcast, we’re heading down to Kansas City, Missouri, to chat with Ryan Maybe, the co-founder of J. Rieger & Company. Ryan takes us on a journey from his early days as a bartender to the exciting revival of the historic J. Rieger brand, which originally flourished from 1887 until Prohibition put a stop to it all.

We kick things off by discussing how the focus of Ryan's interviews has shifted over the years—from cocktail culture to the innovative whiskeys now coming out of J. Rieger. He dives into the unique terroir of Kansas City and how it plays a crucial role in their whiskey production, including their straight bourbon, bottled-in-bond bourbon, bottled-in-bond rye, and the fascinating Monogram whiskey, which features sherry—a nod to the blending practices of yesteryear.

We also explore the rich whiskey history of Kansas City before Prohibition, the nuances of state laws affecting the spirits industry, and the distinction between Missouri bourbon and Kansas City whiskey. Ryan shares the story of how they navigated the TTB to establish Kansas City whiskey as a recognized category, highlighting their commitment to honoring the brand's roots while pushing the envelope in modern whiskey-making.

As we wrap up, Ryan gives us a peek into the production process at J. Rieger, their upcoming 10th anniversary celebration, and what the future holds for the brand. This episode is a captivating exploration of the intersection of history, innovation, and the craft of whiskey-making in Kansas City. So grab a glass, sit back, and enjoy the ride!

Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS

Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!

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J. Rieger & Co. Distillery

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Join us as we delve into the captivating story of Southern Grace Distilleries, one of North Carolina's most unique bourbon producers, with Thomas Thacker. Celebrating their 10th anniversary, Thomas shares the remarkable journey of crafting their signature Conviction bourbon. Learn about their distinctive Piedmont-style mash bill and the innovative Whiskey Prison tasting experience that beautifully blends history and innovation.

In this episode, we explore the intricate art and science behind crafting Conviction bourbon, including the decision to use a lower barrel entry proof to enhance flavor. Discover how mash bills, Cooperage profiles, and environmental factors all play a role in the aging process. Thomas also reveals the community's crucial role in their growth and the transformation of a former prison into a storied distillery, adding depth and authenticity to their brand.

Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS

Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!

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If you haven’t joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring

There are no more spots available at the $25/month bottle share club level, but you can email me if you're interested and I will let you know as soon as a spot opens!

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Southern Grace Distilleries

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In this episode of the Whiskey Ring Podcast, we venture into uncharted territory as we explore the low country of South Carolina. My guest is Chris Crowe, the President of Burnt Church Distillery, located in Bluffton, South Carolina, near Hilton Head. Chris shares the fascinating story behind the distillery, its unique location, and the rich history and culture that influence their craft.

Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS

Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!

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Burnt Church Distillery

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New Riff Sour Mash Single Malt Enters Its Second Batch

Join us as we welcome the singular Jay Erisman, co-founder of New Riff Distillery. From his beginnings as a fine spirits manager at the renowned Party Source to collaborating on innovative projects with Buffalo Trace and Four Roses, Jay's story is one of passion and ingenuity. Together with Ken Lewis, Jay turned a serendipitous moment into the creation of New Riff Distillery, a hub of creative whiskey production known for its experimental releases like the Backsetter series.

More info on the Single Malt: https://www.newriffdistilling.com/single-malt/

Discover the art and science behind New Riff's single malt whiskey – now celebrating its second batch – where traditional techniques meet groundbreaking experimentation. Jay reveals the distillery's use of both new charred oak and a variety of used barrels, such as Portuguese brandy and Oloroso sherry, to craft complex and intriguing whiskey expressions. Inspired by Scottish traditions yet distinctly American, New Riff's creations push the boundaries of flavor, offering a peated malt whiskey that stands as a testament to their inventive spirit and dedication to crafting bold and flavorful spirits suited for diverse proof preferences.

Explore the future of craft whiskey with insights into New Riff's upcoming releases and the art of whiskey blending. Learn how pioneering distilleries like Springbank and innovators like Compass Box inspire New Riff's approach to blending different malt whiskeys and cask types. With exciting prospects like whiskey number six, the Chevalier, and Paolo Cortado sherry casks on the horizon, New Riff continues to captivate whiskey enthusiasts with rich, smoky expressions that intrigue both bourbon and scotch lovers. Tune in to experience the harmonious balance of tradition and innovation that defines New Riff's unique approach to whiskey-making.

Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS

Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!

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Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery

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New Riff Distillery

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Sebastian Bunford-Jones, Global Marketing Manager for Glasgow Distillery, joins us for an engaging chat about the resurgence of whisky-making in this iconic city. We explore the distillery's bold journey as Glasgow's first new independent single malt producer in over a century and their mission to celebrate the city's rich heritage with a modern twist. From reviving traditional whisky-making with a contemporary spirit to crafting a diverse range of spirits, including gin, vodka, and rum, Sebastian unravels the exciting story behind their innovative approach and commitment to quality.

Quality takes precedence over tourism at Glasgow Distillery, where the team focuses on unique whisky expressions that blend tradition with creativity. We delve into the intricacies of whisky production, from distillation techniques to cask selection and the impact of yeast strains on flavor. Highlighting their successful launch of the 1770 Whisky, Sebastian shares insights into the distillery's strategic expansion efforts, including investment in skilled personnel and premium casks, ensuring excellence in every bottle, while planning to enhance visitor experiences as the distillery grows.

Explore the distillery's meticulous design and branding strategy, which weaves together Glasgow's architectural essence and community spirit. With an eye on the global market, Glasgow Distillery is crafting exceptional spirits that resonate with both local and international audiences. Discover how their diversified portfolio, including the introduction of Banditti rum, broadens market appeal, all while maintaining accessibility and transparency. As we wrap up, Sebastian offers a sneak peek into their upcoming small batch series set for release, showcasing the distillery's relentless innovation and dedication to crafting outstanding products.

Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS

Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!

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Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery

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Glasgow Distillery

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Heritage Grains, Modern Spirits, and a Craft Cocktail Revolution in Colorado

In this episode, we explore the unique landscape of craft distilling in Colorado with Jamie Burns, the innovative lead distiller at The Family Jones Distillery. Jamie's journey is one of blending tradition with cutting-edge techniques, drawing from his extensive education, including a Master of Science in Brewing and Distilling from Heriot-Watt, and his experiences at Michigan State University. Discover how his background in biosystems engineering and his passion for food and beverage have shaped his approach to distilling.

We dive deep into the use of unconventional grains, such as naked barley and heritage Oland wheat, and the collaborative efforts with local farmers and malting partners that drive The Family Jones' commitment to sustainability and flavor innovation. Learn about the challenges and triumphs in the distillation process, as well as the importance of maintaining a strong local presence while gradually expanding.

The episode also delves into the art of branding, highlighting the stories and symbolism behind product names like Atticus Jones whiskey. Jamie shares insights into their organic growth strategy and community engagement efforts that embody the true spirit of Colorado. Join us for an inspiring conversation on how tradition and innovation come together in every bottle from The Family Jones Distillery.

Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS

Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!

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Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery

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_________________________________________________________

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The Family Jones

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Redefining Canadian Whisky And Mash Bills vs Grain Bills

Nick Taylor is no stranger to blending - he hit 40 Scottish distilleries in 30 days pretending to be a whisky writer (and no, I asked, he wasn't caught!), and has since visited Ireland, Japan, and most of the distilleries in Kentucky, not to mention Canada. Bottom line, he knows that you don't have to distill to create something exceptional.

In creating Found North with his partners, Nick is taking on a monumental task - redefining Canadian whisky for an American market conditioned to see Canadian as lesser, inferior, or just plain bad. The big brands don't do themselves any favors, but then again they don't have much incentive (we get into that), so it's up to the small guys like Found North to crack that nut.

In a fascinating exploration of the art and science of whisky blending, Nick reveals how synesthesia and musical influences spark creativity in crafting harmonious blends, from classical to funky things even I had never heard of before. We delve into techniques for balancing flavors and how strategic buying and aging of whisky components allow Found North to create and fill a new niche. Throughout the episode, personal anecdotes and insights from Nick offer an engaging and enlightening look at the passion and expertise that drive Found North's unique journey in the whiskey world.

Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS

Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!

• BAXUS Website
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Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery

• Black Button Distilling Website
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_________________________________________________________

If you haven’t joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring

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Found North Whisky

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An Innovative Copper Method and An Oregonian Distiller in Ireland

Join me on this episode to Ireland's Boyne Valley, where we explore the historic and picturesque Brú na Bóinne and the modern Boann Distillery. I sit down with Alex Witt, the head distiller at Boann, who shares his captivating journey from the United States to Ireland and his immersion into the Irish whiskey industry. Alex takes us through the Cooney family's transition from brewing craft beer to creating whiskey, highlighting their passion for the drinks industry and the intimate, collaborative atmosphere of working in a family-run business. Discover the innovative and state-of-the-art facilities at Boann, which are housed in a repurposed car dealership, and get a sneak peek at their exciting new PX cask finish whiskey.

In our conversation, we delve into the unique distillation techniques and sustainability initiatives at Boann Distillery. Alex provides insight into the application of nanotechnology in their distillation process, the historical significance of copper in whiskey production, and the potential for new whiskey releases pending regulatory changes. We also touch on Boann's commitment to environmental sustainability, plans for expansion, and their multifaceted visitor experience. With a rich discussion on maturation experiments and the use of diverse casks, this episode is a must-listen for whiskey enthusiasts and those interested in innovative production methods.

Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, BAXUS

Baxus is the world's leading collectible spirits marketplace, with user-friendly options for buyers, sellers, and collectors looking to vault their collections. Use my link below to visit the BAXUS.CO website and sign up!

• BAXUS Website
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Thanks to our Lead Sponsor, Black Button Distillery

• Black Button Distilling Website
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_________________________________________________________

If you haven’t joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring

There is 1 more spot available at the $25/month bottle share club level.

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Boann Distillery

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