In today's conversation, I'm joined by Joe Beatrice and Tripp Stimson from Barrell Craft Spirits. We're going to dig into the art of whiskey blending, the unique characteristics of their products, and the intricacies of whiskey tasting. We'll explore the artistic differences between blending and distilling, the importance of maturation, and the flavor profiles of Barrell's whiskeys, including Seagrass and Foundation Single Barrel.

Here are the main topics:

• Introduction to Barrel Craft Spirits
• The Art of Blending Whiskey
• Understanding Distillation and Maturation
• Tasting Seagrass Rye Whiskey
• Exploring Flavor Profiles and Tasting Notes
• Foundation Single Barrel and Its Characteristics
• Batch 37: Annual Release Insights
• The Role of Oak in Whiskey
• Marketing and Branding of Barrel Craft Spirits

For an extended version of this episode, join the Whiskey Lore Speakeasy (7 day free trial available) at Patreon.com/whiskeylore .

Stone Fences Tours (Versailles, KY) WF0062

Listeners of Whiskey Lore know I have a passion for do-it-yourself travel. Still, not everyone is like me and maybe for your first trip to Kentucky, you'd prefer to have someone take you to the state's amazing distilleries. Or maybe you want the advantage of not having to measure your fun against your ability to drive afterwards.

Leaving the experience in a tour company's hands has several advantages. Join me as I chat with my friend Jerry Daniels of Stone Fences Tours about what you can expect and what to anticipate when it comes to working with a tour company.

If you'd like access to the best and most up-to-date Kentucky distillery planning advice, even if you choose to go by tour company, grab a copy of Experiencing Kentucky Bourbon: Second Edition. Here is a shortcut link to the book on Amazon: whiskey-lore.com/kentuckybook

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