Episodes

  • "Benchmark; Blind Taste Test"
    Oct 22 2024

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    https://youtu.be/kcVBYonR2E4

    Ever wondered what happens when you mix fall vibes with a blind whiskey taste test? Grab your favorite fall sweater and join us as we embark on a whiskey adventure filled with laughs, surprises, and a mysterious "bump." With the clever help of our behind-the-scenes guest, Madison, we've lined up the Benchmark series from Buffalo Trace Distillery for a blind tasting escapade. Our journey begins with light-hearted banter, palate-resetting tricks like sniffing coffee beans, and some amusing personal stories that will have you embracing the whiskey life without emptying your wallet.

    As we sip our way through bourbons labeled A and B, we dive headfirst into playful speculation and sensory delight. Memories of childhood sweet tarts collide with analysis of caramel, floral essence, and maybe even a hint of foolproof strength. The distinct personalities of these bourbons spark conversations that range from the aromatic to the absurd, providing an engaging auditory feast for both seasoned whiskey enthusiasts and curious newcomers. Who knew bourbon could conjure up images of long-lost childhood treats like banana bubble gum?

    Our whiskey journey doesn't stop there! In a spirited guessing game, we attempt to uncover the secrets hidden in single barrel, small batch, and bonded varieties, all while sharing a laugh over unexpected notes and cultural quirks. With a bold finale, we mix our samples for a one-of-a-kind blend, and in true Whiskey Bits style, celebrate Halloween with a few surprises up our sleeves. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe if you've enjoyed this whiskey-infused rollercoaster. Cheers to good company and great bourbon!

    🔔 Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Whiskey Bits with Matt and Phil! Cheers to laughter, great whiskey, and memorable moments! 🥃✨

    🎙️ Listen to Whiskey Bits on your favorite platforms:

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    🥃 Connect with Whiskey Bits:

    • Facebook.com/WhiskeyBitsPodcast
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    • WhiskeyBitsPodcast.com
    • WhiskeyBitsPodcast@gmail.com


    😃 Connect with Matt & Phil on Instagram:

    • @mattsommerfield
    • @philstokes21
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    30 mins
  • "1776 Rye J.E. Pepper; New York"
    Oct 15 2024

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    https://youtu.be/i1uK_crBGzY

    Ever wondered what connects tight pants and whiskey? Join us on a spirited journey through history and humor as we unravel the stories behind James E. Pepper's 1776 Rye. We'll tickle your funny bone with tales of whiskey production, likening it to the most peculiar pickle business you've ever heard of. With MGP as the backbone of many a whiskey, discover how distilleries like James E. Pepper maintain their unique flair while sourcing from this Indiana giant.

    Transitioning from tight pants to tight transition skills, we navigate the whimsical world of conversation shifts. From the historical whispers of the Waldorf Astoria to the bustling streets of New York City, our attempts at seamless segues might just leave you chuckling. Our on-air chemistry and playful misunderstandings provide a backdrop to our stories about iconic hotels, city escapades, and the everyday hilarities that make life so entertaining.

    Our New York tales are a feast for the senses, quite literally. Picture yourself tasting an affordable MGP-sourced whiskey and indulging in the legendary pizza and bagels of the Big Apple. As we recount subway adventures and Central Park strolls, each story is spiced with humor and nostalgia. Prepare for future episodes brimming with exciting guests and historical themes, ensuring our podcasting journey is as lively as ever.

    🔔 Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Whiskey Bits with Matt and Phil! Cheers to laughter, great whiskey, and memorable moments! 🥃✨

    🎙️ Listen to Whiskey Bits on your favorite platforms:

    • Apple Podcasts
    • Spotify
    • YouTube


    🥃 Connect with Whiskey Bits:

    • Facebook.com/WhiskeyBitsPodcast
    • Instagram.com/WhiskeyBitsPodcast
    • WhiskeyBitsPodcast.com
    • WhiskeyBitsPodcast@gmail.com


    😃 Connect with Matt & Phil on Instagram:

    • @mattsommerfield
    • @philstokes21
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    50 mins
  • “Angel’s Envy Finished Rye; Games”
    Oct 8 2024

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    https://youtu.be/K5Q8EpcESLQ

    Ever wondered how to pair the nuances of whiskey with the unpredictability of squirrel encounters? Join us on Whiskey Bits with Matt and Phil as we explore the magical world of Angel's Envy Finished Rye, a 100 proof delight from Louisville, Kentucky. Filled with aromas of maple syrup and breakfast nostalgia, this episode promises laughter and warmth as we reminisce about quirky school lunches and the art of whiskey tasting. Our banter takes you through a tapestry of memories, all tied together by the sweet notes of green apple, cinnamon, and caramel that define this exquisite rye.

    Shift gears with us as we embark on a journey to Gen Con, the legendary tabletop game convention in Indianapolis. From epic battles in Warhammer to family feuds in Lord of the Rings Monopoly, we explore the colorful universe of board games and the spirited competition it sparks in our kids. Our stories weave through the legendary halls of chess, Stratego, and Battleship, reflecting on the joys and challenges of nurturing a healthy competitive spirit in the next generation. Expect whimsical tales and a good dose of humor as we navigate through the vibrant world of gaming.

    Card games, cigar smoke, and a sprinkle of Wisconsin city name chaos—what more could you ask for? Our playful discussion winds through the hilarity of pandemic card games, spurred by a comical spades mishap. Dive into our musing on football audibles, and why Wisconsin's unique geography might not be the best play call. We wrap up with anecdotes from New York City, where the surreal becomes the everyday, and time becomes a fluid companion. Thank you for being a part of our Whiskey Bits journey—be sure to like, share, and subscribe to keep the good times rolling!

    🔔 Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Whiskey Bits with Matt and Phil! Cheers to laughter, great whiskey, and memorable moments! 🥃✨

    🎙️ Listen to Whiskey Bits on your favorite platforms:

    • Apple Podcasts
    • Spotify
    • YouTube


    🥃 Connect with Whiskey Bits:

    • Facebook.com/WhiskeyBitsPodcast
    • Instagram.com/WhiskeyBitsPodcast
    • WhiskeyBitsPodcast.com
    • WhiskeyBitsPodcast@gmail.com


    😃 Connect with Matt & Phil on Instagram:

    • @mattsommerfield
    • @philstokes21
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    30 mins
  • "Journeyman Field Rye; Crazy Stories"
    Oct 1 2024

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    https://youtu.be/48nkWqDOmVs

    Ever wondered how a collaboration between a distillery and a museum unfolds into a unique whiskey experience? Join us on this episode of Whiskey Bits with Matt and Phil, as we recount our entertaining trip to Journeyman Distillery in Michigan. You'll be intrigued by their partnership with the Field Museum in Chicago, which led to the creation of a delightful fig-flavored rye whiskey named "Field Rye." We share the story behind its intriguing 60% rye and 40% wheat mash bill, touching on everything from logo designs to the legendary T-Rex, Sue, sparking plenty of laughs along the way.

    Curious about the magic behind fig-infused whiskey? Discover the fascinating process of using black mission figs in whiskey production, where figs are soaked in whiskey barrels to impart natural flavors. We'll take you through the unique aspects of Journeyman Distillery's sandstone building and the freshwater creek that supplies their water. Plus, we delve into the significance of using Midwest-sourced grains and what it means for the whiskey to be kosher. And you won't want to miss our amusing anecdote about a pickle company and the kosher certification process—it’s a real pickle of a story!

    What happens when you mix whiskey and family stories? Our mixology session with Field Rye leads to a delicious Fig and Maple cocktail and a walk down memory lane, reminiscing about classic family games like Monopoly and Trivial Pursuit. The episode culminates with a surprising family revelation discovered through 23andMe, revealing hidden family history that adds an intriguing twist to our narrative. Tune in for an episode packed with humor, nostalgia, and fascinating whiskey insights that will keep you grinning from start to finish.

    🔔 Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Whiskey Bits with Matt and Phil! Cheers to laughter, great whiskey, and memorable moments! 🥃✨

    🎙️ Listen to Whiskey Bits on your favorite platforms:

    • Apple Podcasts
    • Spotify
    • YouTube


    🥃 Connect with Whiskey Bits:

    • Facebook.com/WhiskeyBitsPodcast
    • Instagram.com/WhiskeyBitsPodcast
    • WhiskeyBitsPodcast.com
    • WhiskeyBitsPodcast@gmail.com


    😃 Connect with Matt & Phil on Instagram:

    • @mattsommerfield
    • @philstokes21
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    52 mins
  • "Koval Single Barrell; Nerding Out"
    Sep 24 2024

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    https://youtu.be/Cbsfuaze5TQ

    The Comedy Gold in Whiskey: Laughs with Matt & Phil

    What’s the biggest misconception about bourbon? Hint: It's not that it has to come from Kentucky! Join us as we kick off this episode with some hilarious moments from "Curb Your Enthusiasm" and share our own comedic travel mishaps that nearly derailed tonight's recording session. Then, we introduce you to our whiskey of the evening: the Koval Single Barrel Bourbon, a gem from the heart of Chicago. Along the way, we clear up the myth surrounding bourbon's origins, ensuring you’ll sound like a whiskey connoisseur at your next gathering.

    Ever wondered what makes a whiskey's aroma so captivating? We're diving nose first into the bold world of Koval's Single Barrel Bourbon. Experience with us the initial ethanol punch, followed by layers of sweet corn and that undeniable banana-flavored candy essence. Our spirited debate on whether the banana note is more prominent in the nose or on the palate evolves into a joyful tasting session, complete with reflections on past episodes and the amusing term "pungent." Pour yourself a glass and join us for a sensory adventure you won’t forget!

    🔔 Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Whiskey Bits with Matt and Phil! Cheers to laughter, great whiskey, and memorable moments! 🥃✨

    🎙️ Listen to Whiskey Bits on your favorite platforms:

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    • Spotify
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    🥃 Connect with Whiskey Bits:

    • Facebook.com/WhiskeyBitsPodcast
    • Instagram.com/WhiskeyBitsPodcast
    • WhiskeyBitsPodcast.com
    • WhiskeyBitsPodcast@gmail.com


    😃 Connect with Matt & Phil on Instagram:

    • @mattsommerfield
    • @philstokes21
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    33 mins
  • "Old Forester 1920; Whiskey Tours"
    Sep 17 2024

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    https://youtu.be/lQt2MKNUyOw

    Whiskey Tasting Comedy: Laugh, Sip, Repeat

    What happens when you spill whiskey on a soundboard and muse about baptizing with bourbon? Join us for a laugh-filled episode of Whiskey Bits as we kick off with these wild tales. Phil, true to form, finds a way to make it all about him, adding a dash of comedic narcissism to the mix! Get ready to chuckle as we transition from this uproarious start to diving into the rich history of Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style whiskey. We explore how savvy distillers marketed their wares as medicinal remedies during Prohibition, drawing hilarious parallels to today’s medical marijuana market.

    Discover the distinct characteristics of Old Forester 1920 as we savor its high proof and unique flavor notes, including a surprising hint of root beer. We also talk about the aeration process and share our tasting experiences, blending the technical with the whimsically personal. And just when you thought it couldn’t get more entertaining, our conversation meanders into unexpected yet amusing territories like pampering and exfoliation. Yes, even whiskey aficionados like us appreciate a bit of high-maintenance care!

    Before wrapping up, we propose the "Whiskey Bits Gold Stamp of Approval" for standout bourbons like Old Forester 1920. We share laughs over Monty Franklin's latest comedy show and his unforgettable emu joke while discussing an upcoming film project. Finally, we reminisce about our favorite distillery tours, the joy of sampling whiskey straight from the barrel, and even debate Superman's role in the finer pleasures of life. Tune in for an episode that blends humor, history, and high-proof happiness.

    🔔 Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Whiskey Bits with Matt and Phil! Cheers to laughter, great whiskey, and memorable moments! 🥃✨

    🎙️ Listen to Whiskey Bits on your favorite platforms:

    • Apple Podcasts
    • Spotify
    • YouTube


    🥃 Connect with Whiskey Bits:

    • Facebook.com/WhiskeyBitsPodcast
    • Instagram.com/WhiskeyBitsPodcast
    • WhiskeyBitsPodcast.com
    • WhiskeyBitsPodcast@gmail.com


    😃 Connect with Matt & Phil on Instagram:

    • @mattsommerfield
    • @philstokes21
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    30 mins
  • "J.W. Dant BiB; Hardware Stores & Cool Tools"
    Sep 10 2024

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    https://youtu.be/L0QrxqWN2hE

    Is JW Dant the Best $30 Whiskey? Find Out!

    Ever wondered how a debate about clothing colors can set the stage for a whiskey review? Join us as we embark on a laughter-filled journey kicking things off with light-hearted banter about salmon and our favorite fish before diving into the rich, punchy flavors of JW Dant Bottled in Bond whiskey. We savor and critique this gem from the renowned Heaven Hill Distillery, comparing it to our past tastings and sharing candid reactions that blend humor with genuine admiration for its accessible price point and complex character.

    Do home improvement stores feel like magical kingdoms to you? We take a nostalgic trip down the aisles of Home Depot, Menards, and Harbor Freight Tools, sharing amusing anecdotes and spirited debates on customer service, quirky rebate systems, and the joys of tool shopping. From pressure washers used for unconventional purposes to humorous rationalizations through "man math," our stories are sure to resonate with every DIY enthusiast who's ever wandered these stores with glee.

    To top it all off, we venture into spontaneous travel adventures and whimsical tales, including gifting a BB gun, critiquing cats, and whirlwind road trips. Hear about our impulsive whiskey shopping escapades and the thrill of unexpected journeys, all while circling back to give our final nod of approval to JW Dant. With a blend of humor, nostalgia, and camaraderie, this episode promises a rollercoaster of laughter, insights, and unforgettable stories.

    🔔 Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Whiskey Bits with Matt and Phil! Cheers to laughter, great whiskey, and memorable moments! 🥃✨

    🎙️ Listen to Whiskey Bits on your favorite platforms:

    • Apple Podcasts
    • Spotify
    • YouTube


    🥃 Connect with Whiskey Bits:

    • Facebook.com/WhiskeyBitsPodcast
    • Instagram.com/WhiskeyBitsPodcast
    • WhiskeyBitsPodcast.com
    • WhiskeyBitsPodcast@gmail.com


    😃 Connect with Matt & Phil on Instagram:

    • @mattsommerfield
    • @philstokes21
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    30 mins
  • "Weller Special Barrel Pick; Shark Week"
    Sep 3 2024

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    https://youtu.be/pcxzKqXXtsY

    What happens when you blend hilarious banter, classic movie critiques, and whiskey wisdom all in one podcast? Join us as we brainstorm a podcast inspired by Mystery Science Theater 3000 where we watch nostalgic classics like Swingers and Jaws, providing our own humorous commentary. We shift gears to "Whiskey Bits With Matt and Phil" to savor the Weller Special Reserve. The discussion revolves around its availability, price, and the efforts Buffalo Trace is making to meet growing demand, complete with anecdotes from our distillery visits.

    As autumn sets in, we indulge in the cozy joys of the season. From caramel apple hot cider to pairing vanilla bean ice cream with apple pie, our chat about fall-themed beverages and desserts will leave you craving these treats. Our conversation takes an entertaining detour into the cinematic world of Jaws, sharing our humorous critiques and personal experiences with the film. We also have a laugh about Shark Week's audacious antics and content.

    Finally, get ready for a wild ride as we discuss a shark documentary featuring some truly bold filmmaking choices. Discover the quirky methods used to study sharks, including one filmmaker's decision to sit on a whale carcass amidst a feeding frenzy. We uncover fascinating facts about shark behavior and anatomy, all while keeping the tone light and humorous. To top it all off, we dive into the joys of powerful DIY car washing with whiskey, celebrating the simple pleasures of using a powerful nozzle. Don't miss out on this blend of humor, whiskey insights, and marine biology fun!

    🔔 Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Whiskey Bits with Matt and Phil! Cheers to laughter, great whiskey, and memorable moments! 🥃✨

    🎙️ Listen to Whiskey Bits on your favorite platforms:

    • Apple Podcasts
    • Spotify
    • YouTube


    🥃 Connect with Whiskey Bits:

    • Facebook.com/WhiskeyBitsPodcast
    • Instagram.com/WhiskeyBitsPodcast
    • WhiskeyBitsPodcast.com
    • WhiskeyBitsPodcast@gmail.com


    😃 Connect with Matt & Phil on Instagram:

    • @mattsommerfield
    • @philstokes21
    Show more Show less
    30 mins