The Bourbon Life

This week on The Whiskey Trip, Big Chief welcomes Luis Martinez, founder of the Whiskey Valor Foundation, for a powerful conversation about service, sacrifice, brotherhood, and the healing power of the whiskey community. As a retired military veteran himself, Big Chief understands that the bonds forged through military service don't disappear when the uniform comes off. Sometimes, the toughest battles begin after the mission is over. Luis joins Big Chief on the ride to share the story behind Whiskey Valor Foundation, what inspired him to create the organization, and how he's working to make a difference in the lives of veterans. First Half – Brotherhood and Blue Bolt Big Chief and Luis kick off the journey with both men pouring Blue Bolt 107. With whiskey in their glasses, the conversation turns to Luis's military background, his passion for helping fellow veterans, and the inspiration behind Whiskey Valor Foundation. The two veterans discuss the importance of camaraderie, finding purpose after service, and how the whiskey community can bring people together from all walks of life. Second Half – Whiskey with a Purpose In the second half, Luis reaches for another Blue Bolt Single Barrel, while Big Chief pours a Milam & Greene Liberty. As the pours change, the conversation digs deeper into the mission of Whiskey Valor Foundation, the challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian life, and the importance of having a community that stands behind those who have served. Big Chief and Luis also explore how whiskey can be more than just a drink. It can be a bridge between strangers, a way to build lasting friendships, and an opportunity to make a meaningful difference. This episode reminds us that service doesn't end when the uniform comes off. Sometimes, it simply takes on a new mission. At The Whiskey Trip, we believe in being a rising tide that lifts all boats, and organizations like Whiskey Valor Foundation remind us why giving back matters. So grab your favorite pour, pull up a chair, and join Big Chief and Luis Martinez for a ride filled with whiskey, brotherhood, and purpose. Because the best whiskey stories aren't always about what's in the glass. Sometimes, they're about the people sitting across from us. Be a Rising Tide. Honor Those Who Serve. Take the Ride. Follow The Whiskey Trip: www.thewhiskeytrip.com

This week, we're celebrating a milestone that's been years in the making. 500 podcast episodes with Ol' Big Chief behind the microphone! That's right, folks! This isn't the 500th episode of The Whiskey Trip. It's Big Chief's 500th podcast episode across his journey with The Bourbon Road and The Whiskey Trip. Five hundred conversations, countless friendships, incredible whiskeys, and enough stories to fill a lifetime. And who better to help celebrate this milestone than the woman who's been riding shotgun through it all? Ms. Viv! This week, the tables are turned as Ms. Viv takes over the questioning and puts Big Chief in the hot seat. From his earliest days behind the microphone to the people, places, and pours that shaped his journey, nothing is off-limits. Expect plenty of laughter, a few surprises, heartfelt memories, and maybe even a story or two Big Chief wasn't planning on telling! First Half – Weller Antique 107 Big Chief and Ms. Viv kick off the celebration with W.L. Weller Antique 107, a wheated Kentucky straight bourbon that's become a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts. As they sip, Ms. Viv takes Big Chief back to where it all began. They revisit the early days of podcasting, the challenges along the way, and the friendships that turned a passion for whiskey into something much bigger. Second Half – Jimmy's Bourbon 10 Year For the second half, they raise a glass of Jimmy's Bourbon 10 Year as the conversation turns toward the lessons learned over 500 episodes, unforgettable moments, and what the future holds for Big Chief and The Whiskey Trip. Ms. Viv keeps the questions coming, including a special Quick Fire Round that puts Big Chief on the spot! But this episode is about more than bourbon or microphones. It's about the people who have made the journey worthwhile. From the distillers and industry legends to the everyday whiskey lovers who have welcomed Big Chief into their homes, bars, and lives, every single one has helped shape this incredible ride. Five hundred episodes. Thousands of pours. Countless friendships. One incredible journey. Big Chief wants to thank every guest who has shared a story, every listener who has tuned in, and every friend who has supported him along the way. Because at the end of the day, whiskey is what brings us together, but friendship is what keeps us coming back. And remember, folks, Be a Rising Tide. Lift others up, celebrate their successes, and never forget the people who helped you along the way. Here's to the next 500! Cheers, and remember… TAKE THE RIDE!

This week on The Whiskey Trip, Big Chief welcomes back Master Distiller Denny Potter of Potter Jane Distillery for the third installment in a series following Denny and Jane's incredible journey through the world of Kentucky bourbon. From their days at the legendary Maker's Mark Distillery to stepping out on their own and building Potter Jane Distillery, this story is about more than making whiskey. It's about taking everything you've learned, trusting your instincts, and having the courage to build something with your own name on it. Over the course of these three conversations, Big Chief has followed Denny and Jane's evolution from working at one of Kentucky's most iconic heritage distilleries to creating their own brand and shaping their own future in American whiskey. In the first half, Big Chief and Denny get a glimpse into the future of Potter Jane, sipping two 18-month-old bourbon samples straight from their developing whiskey program. First up is their Wheated Bourbon, featuring a mash bill of 64% corn, 23% wheat, and 13% malted barley. This young whiskey offers an early look at the flavor profile Denny and Jane are developing for their distillery. Next, they explore their Rye Bourbon, crafted with 64% corn, 23% rye, and 13% malted barley. With the same corn and malted barley percentages, swapping wheat for rye gives the guys an opportunity to explore how the secondary grain influences the character of the whiskey. In the second half, things get interesting as Denny and Big Chief pour Big Vat Liar, a sourced six-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in oak casks. And here's where the story gets good! Big Vat Liar takes its name from a promise Denny and Jane made about something they said they would never do. Sometimes the whiskey business has a way of making you eat your own words, and this bottle embraces that reality with a little humor and a whole lot of bourbon. Throughout the episode, Denny shares another chapter in the Potter Jane story, giving listeners a look at the challenges, decisions, and excitement that come with leaving an established distillery behind to build something entirely your own. This episode is about heritage, friendship, taking chances, and chasing a dream. It's a reminder that even after years of making some of the world's most recognizable bourbon, there's always another chapter waiting to be written. So pour yourself something good, settle in, and join Big Chief and Denny Potter for another unforgettable ride through Kentucky bourbon country. Because the best stories aren't always about where you've been. Sometimes they're about where you're headed. Like the episode, subscribe to The Whiskey Trip, and share it with a friend who loves great bourbon and the people behind it. The Whiskey Trip – Take the Ride! Be a Rising Tide.

This week on The Whiskey Trip, Big Chief sits down with Kevin LeBlanc — The Bourbon Gator, one of the rising voices in the whiskey community. Kevin is a Southeast Texas whiskey enthusiast and content creator who's building a following by keeping whiskey fun, approachable, and all about community. We talk about how The Bourbon Gator got started, his journey into whiskey, creating content, and where he hopes to take the brand next. On this week's ride: Kevin pours Chickenduck Wheated Bourbon (94 Proof) and Garrison Brothers Señora, while Big Chief pours Bon Vāle Cask Strength American Single Malt from Distillerie Acadian and Milam & Greene Unabridged Volume 5. We also hit Kevin with the Quick Fire Round, talk about the people doing great things in the whiskey community, and recognize this week's Rising Tide, Dan Henley. Plus, we shine a light on Frontline Heroes Outdoors, Whiskey Valor, Hearts & Barrels, and Daxton's Heart Warriors. Is The Bourbon Gator whiskey's next big voice? Jump in and Take the Ride with us. Like the episode. Drop a comment and tell us what you're drinking. Subscribe to The Whiskey Trip for more conversations from across the whiskey world. Take the Ride. Be a Rising Tide.

This week on The Whiskey Trip, Big Chief sits down with his good friend Dude Poole, author of The Men Who Made American Bourbon: Bourbon Barons Volume 1, host of The Bourbon Hunters Podcast, and a certified Executive Bourbon Steward. This isn't your typical interview. It's two buddies sitting down with a couple of great pours and talking about bourbon, history, podcasting, and the friendships that come along with this crazy whiskey journey. Dude shares what pushed him to become an author and the work that went into researching and writing The Men Who Made American Bourbon: Bourbon Barons Volume 1. He and Big Chief dig into some of the men and stories found throughout the book and how these bourbon barons helped shape an industry that would become part of American history. There's also plenty of history between these two. Dude is the man responsible for Big Chief's infamous "Bourbon Bullshitter" T-shirt, and Big Chief has made the trip over to The Bourbon Hunters Podcast before. Big Chief also congratulates Dude and the Bourbon Hunters crew on an incredible milestone—500 episodes behind the microphones. For the first half, Big Chief pours Weller Antique 107, while Dude reaches for a Crittenden Wheated Bourbon. They talk about what's in their glasses while diving deeper into Dude's bourbon journey, the podcast, his research, and how the idea of writing a book about the men behind American bourbon became a reality. For the second half, they get on the same page and both sip on Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C921. With a big barrel-proof bourbon in the glass, the conversation continues into bourbon history, writing, podcasting, and the people they've met along the way. From being guests on each other's shows to the Bourbon Bullshitter T-shirt, 500 episodes of The Bourbon Hunters, and now Dude becoming a published bourbon author, there's plenty to talk about on this ride. At its heart, this episode is about more than what's in the glass. It's about preserving bourbon history, telling the stories of the people who built the industry, and the friendships that are made along the whiskey journey. Pour yourself something good and join Big Chief and Dude Poole for another trip through American whiskey history. Take the Ride.

On this episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast, Mark and Matt welcome back Zach Johnston, Chief Brand Officer and Senior Vice President of International Sales at Blackwood Distilling Co,, for a wide-ranging conversation about how the brand has grown and evolved since his last appearance on the show nearly two years ago. Zach breaks down Blackwood's approach to whiskey, including its unique one-to-one rebarreling process using new toasted Kelvin barrels and the philosophy behind creating a more complete, rounded flavor profile without letting the secondary barrel overwhelm the whiskey. He also explains how the Toasted 105 line was developed to offer the same Blackwood character at a more approachable proof and price point while still delivering the depth and finish the brand is known for. The conversation also explores Zach's path from restaurants, bars, travel, and spirits writing into the whiskey business, as well as Blackwood's expansion beyond Kentucky into additional U.S. markets. Zach discusses the realities of building an international sales strategy in a constantly changing trade environment and why identifying new opportunities and being willing to pivot have become essential for growing brands. Closer to home, Zach talks about Blackwood's move into Lexington, including its bottle shop and tasting room, and the launch of the Blackwood Barrel Association. He explains how the program gives members access to special bottles, early releases, unique merchandise, and more personal tasting experiences while creating a stronger connection between the brand and its supporters. Zach also gives Mark and Matt a look at what's coming next from Blackwood, including Fifty/50, a collaboration with Germany's Stork Club that combines German rye with Blackwood Toasted Barrel Strength Rye, and Country House, an upcoming 12-year, non-toasted bourbon release that marks a new direction for the brand. And, of course, they taste and review three Blackwood expressions, including: · Blackwood Toasted 105 Bourbon · Blackwood Toasted 105 Rye · Blackwood Toasted Rye Barrel Strength It's a fun, informative conversation about toasted whiskey, thoughtful blending, building a premium brand, navigating a changing bourbon market, and what's ahead for Blackwood Distilling. This episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast is presented by VisitLEX and sponsored by Bluegrass Distillers, District 7 Social, and The Kitchen Table at the James B. Beam Distilling Co.

On this Episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast presented by VisitLEX, Mark sits down with first-time guest Zane Brammell, founder of New Era Whiskey & Social Club, for a fun conversation about how a Lexington barrel club grew into a whiskey brand built around single barrels, storytelling, and community. Zane shares his path from working in healthcare and through the COVID years to discovering bourbon through time spent with his stepfather. That interest quickly turned into a passion for barrel picks and eventually a local barrel club that grew from a few hundred members to nearly 3,000 before inspiring him to take the next step and create New Era. They dig into the story behind the brand, including the newspaper-inspired labels, the headline concept, and Zane's love of physical media and creative storytelling. Zane also explains the principles behind New Era's whiskey program: sourcing whiskey at a minimum of eight years old, bottling at cask strength, and keeping every release single barrel. He also talks about the hands-on approach to selecting barrels and why making the barrel-pick experience fun and personal is such an important part of the brand. The conversation also turns to the newly opened New Era Distillery and Social Club in Lexington. Zane talks about the community-first vision behind the space, the strong turnout for the grand opening, and how Social Club members receive specially selected monthly bottles while also having a place to gather, taste, and connect. He also shares how the Social Club gives New Era another way to use its labels to tell meaningful personal stories. Mark and Zane also look ahead to continued growth for New Era, including plans to expand into additional states in 2027 while continuing to work with retailers, clubs, and groups on unique single-barrel selections. And, of course, they taste and review three different New Era single-barrel picks, including: · New Era 1st & Market Kentucky Straight Bourbon – 8 Year · New Era Warriors Rise for Princess Nyla Rye – 14 Year · New Era Midnight Flight Kentucky Straight Bourbon – 19 Year It's a wide-ranging conversation about finding community through bourbon, building a brand from the ground up, creating memorable single-barrel experiences, and giving every bottle a story worth telling. This episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast is presented by VisitLEX and sponsored by Bluegrass Distillers, District 7 Social, The Kitchen Table at the James B. Beam Distilling Co., and Hotel Distil.

On this Episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast presented by VisitLEX, Damon Thayer and Andre Regard, co-founders of Kentucky Senator Bourbon, return to the show for another fun conversation about the continued growth of the brand, their newest releases, and what's ahead. Damon and Andre catch Mark up on some big changes for Kentucky Senator Bourbon, including moving much of their storage and bottling operations to Bardstown Bourbon Company, launching an online store that can ship to 46 states, and continuing to expand their presence at bourbon festivals and events. They also talk about their deliberate approach to growing the brand, an inventory that now includes more than 700 barrels aging at four Kentucky distilleries, and why they remain committed to producing traditional, age-stated Kentucky bourbon. The guys also dive into the stories behind two of their recent releases. Damon shares the personal connection behind the 8.5-year-old Jim Bunning release, honoring his longtime political mentor and the former U.S. Senator who helped establish September as National Bourbon Heritage Month. Andre talks about taking Kentucky Senator Bourbon back to his Louisiana roots with the 8-year-old Huey P. Long Louisiana Senator release and their plans to follow it with Rose Long and Russell Long releases, creating a unique three-bottle family vertical. They also look ahead at the new Thoroughbred Legacy Series, a single-barrel program inspired by Damon and Andre's longtime connections to Kentucky's horse industry, and reflect on just how far Kentucky Senator Bourbon has come since its first release in 2021. To bring things full circle, they revisit that original 15-year-old Alben W. Barkley Bourbon and the unforgettable story of transporting the whiskey across Lexington during an ice storm so they could get their first bottles into commerce. And, of course, they taste and review three different Kentucky Senator Bourbon expressions, including: • Kentucky Senator Jim Bunning Bourbon – 8.5 Year • Louisiana Senator Huey P. Long Bourbon – 8 Year • Kentucky Senator Alben W. Barkley Bourbon – 15 Year It's a wide-ranging conversation about bourbon, history, storytelling, thoughtful growth, Kentucky's horse industry, and building a whiskey brand one bottle and one relationship at a time. This episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast is presented by VisitLEX and sponsored by Bluegrass Distillers, Pappy & Co., District 7 Social, The Kitchen Table at the James B. Beam Distilling Co., and Hotel Distil.

On this Episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast presented by The 1933 Society, Denny Potter and Jane Bowie, co-founders of Potter Jane Distilling Company, return for another fun and candid conversation about building their distillery, changing course, and what comes next for Potter Jane. Mark and Matt catch up with Denny and Jane about the launch of Big Vat Liar, the sourced Kentucky bourbon that playfully acknowledges their earlier declaration that Potter Jane would never source whiskey. They explain why they changed their minds, the story behind the tongue-in-cheek name and launch, and how Jane's vatting process uses custom large-format oak casks, oxidation, time, and blending to create additional depth and complexity. The conversation also turns to Potter Jane's own whiskey, including a taste of 16-month-old wheated bourbon from some of their earliest production. Denny and Jane discuss what they're learning as the barrels mature, the importance of mouthfeel and flavor development, and their evolving plans for future Potter Jane releases as they work toward older, fully mature whiskey. And, of course, they taste and review three different expressions, including: · Potter Jane Big Vat Liar (Batch 3) · Potter Jane 16-Month-Old Wheated Bourbon · 1973 Old Stone Gate Kentucky Straight Bourbon It's a wide-ranging conversation about sourcing, blending, patience, experimentation, and the realities of creating a distillery and whiskey portfolio with a long-term, generational vision. This episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast is presented by The 1933 Society and sponsored by Pappy & Co., District 7 Social, The Kitchen Table at the James B. Beam Distilling Co., and Hotel Distil.

On this episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast presented by Repeal Oak Fired Steakhouse, Mark and Matt are joined by John Wadell, Head Taster, Blender, and Single Barrel Curator at Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co., for a long-overdue return to the show. Recording from the Kentucky Peerless Suite at Hotel Distil in Louisville, John catches them up on how his role has evolved and reflects on his journey from the early days of Peerless to helping guide the whiskey the distillery is producing today. John talks about the growth of his palate over the past decade, the collaborative tasting and blending process at Peerless, and how the team decides which barrels become batches, single barrels, or special releases. He also shares the fun behind naming Peerless single barrels, discusses the success of the High Rye Bourbon, and explains why the distillery's sweet mash process, non-chill filtration, and focus on mouthfeel remain such important parts of the Peerless identity. The conversation also turns to a major milestone for the distillery: the release of Henry Kraver's 10-Year Bourbon. John shares what it was like tasting through roughly 200 barrels to select the final group for the release and why working with whiskey he remembers filling and rolling years ago made the experience especially meaningful. He also looks ahead to the 10-Year Rye planned for next year, the possibility of older age-stated releases and single barrels, and some intriguing older Double Oak barrels still aging in the Peerless inventory. Along the way, Mark, Matt, and John taste and review "The Phoenix," a 108.5-proof Kentucky Peerless Double Barrel Rye Single Barrel selected for Repeal Steakhouse and Hotel Distil. They talk through its oak, rye spice, citrus, toffee, chocolate, coffee, and malty notes while John explains Peerless' unique approach to Double Oak whiskey—letting the palate, rather than a fixed timetable, determine when each barrel is ready. It's a fun, wide-ranging conversation about whiskey, patience, blending, the evolution of Kentucky Peerless, and what comes next for one of Louisville's most distinctive family-owned distilleries. Pour yourself a great glass, sit back, and join us for another great episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast. This episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast is presented by Repeal Oak Fired Steakhouse and sponsored by Pappy & Co., District 7 Social, The Kitchen Table at the James B. Beam Distilling Co., and Hotel Distil.

On this episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast, Mark and Matt are joined by Diane Strong, Executive Director of Bourbon on the Banks, for a great conversation about the continued growth of the festival and what guests can expect when it returns to Frankfort on Saturday, October 3. Diane talks about how Bourbon on the Banks has evolved since its beginning in 2019, why its relaxed atmosphere along the Kentucky River has become such an important part of its identity, and how the event continues to attract returning guests from across Kentucky and beyond. She also walks Mark and Matt through the full weekend of activities surrounding the festival, including special tastings, the Bourbon Belle, the VIP Reception and Bourbon Auction, Bourbon Street on Broadway, and the Saturday festival itself. The conversation also explores the charitable mission behind Bourbon on the Banks and the significant amount of money the organization gives back each year to local nonprofits, civic organizations, and scholarship programs. Diane shares why that mission remains at the heart of the festival and how it continues to shape plans for the future. Along the way, Mark, Matt, and Diane taste and review three of the 2026 Bourbon on the Banks Single Barrel selections that will be available at the festival: Angel's Envy Port Finished Single Barrel Bourbon, Dark Arts Oloroso Finished Single Barrel Bourbon, and Dark Arts Mizunara Finished Single Barrel Bourbon. They also talk about The Bourbon Life's role as the festival's Live Podcast Partner and plans to have The Bourbon Life Mobile Podcast Studio onsite throughout the day. Whether you're already planning to attend Bourbon on the Banks or simply want to hear how one of Kentucky's most enjoyable bourbon festivals continues to grow while staying true to its community-focused mission, be sure to pour yourself a great glass, sit back, and join us for another great episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast. This episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast is presented by Pappy & Co., District 7 Social, and The Kitchen Table at the James B. Beam Distilling Co.

On this episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast, Mark travels to Louisville to sit down with Steve Smith, Founder of Uncle Boojie's Distilling Co., for a captivating conversation about family history, Kentucky heritage, and the role bourbon plays in connecting us to the stories that came before us. Steve shares his own background as an entrepreneur, preservationist, and storyteller before diving into the remarkable history of his Howard family ancestors, whose distilling roots in Howardstown, Kentucky, date back to the late 1700s. He discusses the research that uncovered generations of family involvement in whiskey production and how that discovery ultimately inspired the creation of Uncle Boojie's Distilling Co. The conversation also explores the origins of Uncle Boojie's, the story behind the company's namesake, and Steve's vision for creating something far greater than a bourbon brand. Through the concept of "Porchlight Hospitality," Steve explains how Uncle Boojie's seeks to create meaningful experiences that bring people together through bourbon, storytelling, and genuine Kentucky hospitality. Mark and Steve also discuss the importance of preserving family history, the fascinating ways our individual stories intersect with one another, and how bourbon serves as a thread that weaves throughout Kentucky's shared history and culture. Steve shares his passion for helping visitors discover not only his family's story, but also connections to their own histories and the larger story of Kentucky itself. The conversation concludes with a look at Uncle Boojie's Homeplace, one of the newest destinations on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®, and what guests can expect when they visit the unique Louisville experience. Along the way, they enjoy three exceptional pours: • Lana – 9-Year-Old Double Oaked Single Barrel Bourbon • Ivy – 7-Year-Old Single Barrel Rye • Prohibition-Style Bourbon – Yet to be released Whether you're fascinated by bourbon history, passionate about genealogy and family heritage, or simply enjoy hearing the stories behind the people and brands shaping Kentucky whiskey today, this episode offers a thoughtful and entertaining look at how bourbon, history, and human connection continue to intertwine across generations. Be sure to pour yourself a great glass, sit back, and join us for another great episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast. The Episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast is presented by Pappy & Co., District 7 Social, and The Kitchen Table at the James B. Beam Distilling Co.

On this Episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast, Mark and Matt welcome back two returning favorites and some of the most respected educators in the bourbon world: Peggy Noe Stevens and Heather Wibbels. Peggy is the President of Peggy Noe Stevens & Associates, a Master Bourbon Taster, and a member of the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame. Heather, known throughout the bourbon community as Cocktail Contessa, is a whiskey educator, author, and former Managing Director of Bourbon Women. Since their last appearances on the show, both Peggy and Heather have been busy educating, writing, speaking, and helping shape the future of bourbon culture. In this Episode, they share what they've been working on, discuss their respective books, and dive deep into a fascinating conversation about the ever-growing role of cocktails in the bourbon world. Together, they tackle topics including: What makes a truly great bourbon cocktail The myth that you shouldn't use good bourbon in cocktails How glassware and garnishes can completely transform the drinking experience Why cocktails continue to attract new consumers to bourbon The evolution of cocktail culture and its impact on bourbon's growth and popularity The conversation wraps up with a preview of their upcoming Kentucky Bourbon Festival experience, "3 Books + 3 Cocktails," where attendees will enjoy a unique blend of storytelling, bourbon education, literature, and cocktail craftsmanship. And for what may be a first in the history of The Bourbon Life Podcast, no bourbons were sampled or reviewed during this episode. Instead, the focus is entirely on education, storytelling, cocktails, and the people helping introduce new audiences to America's Native Spirit. Whether you're a neat-pour purist, a cocktail enthusiast, or somewhere in between, this Episode offers plenty of insights, laughs, and great stories from two of bourbon's most passionate educators and ambassadors.