Description

Unlock the secrets behind Georgia’s fast-growing whiskey scene in this in-depth conversation with Whit Hagemann, distiller at ASW Distillery, on The Bourbon Lens. Hosts Jake and Scott dive into how a nearly decade-old craft distillery is making national waves by blending transparency, creativity, and quality-driven innovation.

Whit shares how ASW balances sourced whiskey and in-house distillation, creating approachable everyday pours like Fiddler Wheated alongside bold, experimental releases such as the award-winning Fiddler Encore Georgia Oak. From unique mash bills featuring Bloody Butcher corn to finishes in Jamaican rum, tawny port, and toasted barrels, ASW is crafting whiskeys that appeal to both traditional bourbon drinkers and adventurous palates.

The conversation explores the challenges of scaling craft whiskey without losing identity, the importance of building relationships with specialty distributors and local retailers, and why transparency on labels resonates with today’s educated whiskey consumers. Whit also discusses how awards, community engagement, and creative risk-taking help ASW compete beyond Kentucky and expand into new markets.

Whether you’re passionate about craft bourbon, American single malt, or the future of U.S. distilling outside traditional regions, this episode offers rare behind-the-scenes insight into how small distilleries make big moves—and why American whiskey’s next chapter may be written well beyond Kentucky.

🔔 Subscribe

🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. Keep this at the bottom
📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens
🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com
💬 Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSU

Hashtags

#ASWDistillery #GeorgiaWhiskey #FiddlerBourbon #CraftWhiskey
#AmericanSingleMalt #WhiskeyPodcast #BourbonLens
#WhiskeyCommunity #CraftDistilling #AmericanWhiskey

Key Takeaways

• ASW Distillery has been operating for nearly a decade and gaining national recognition
• The brand balances sourced whiskey with in-house distillation for flexibility and quality
• Fiddler serves as ASW’s flagship line, blending accessibility and experimentation
• Unique finishes and creative mash bills are central to ASW’s identity
• Community engagement and consumer education fuel long-term growth
• Scaling production while preserving quality remains a key challenge
• Awards help craft distilleries build credibility in competitive markets
• The whiskey community plays a vital role in supporting independent producers
• Transparency on labels strengthens trust with enthusiasts
• Future growth includes expanded distribution and new regional markets

Soundbites

• “Fiddler has a dual meaning.”
• “We want to do something to it.”
• “We have a bright future ahead.”

Keywords

ASW Distillery, Georgia whiskey, Fiddler bourbon, whiskey sourcing, craft distilling, unique whiskey finishes, bourbon trail, whiskey community, American single malt, whiskey awards, craft whiskey podcast, American whiskey innovation, Bourbon Lens

In this episode of 5 Minute Fridays, Jake Lewellen revisits the highly anticipated Elijah Craig Barrel Proof B525, breaking down why this release stands out among recent batches. Bottled at a robust 126.2 proof and nearly 12 years old, B525 delivers a classic Heaven Hill profile with rich layers of cocoa, vanilla, nuttiness, and chocolate oak. Jake walks through his tasting notes, highlighting the bourbon’s balanced corn sweetness, complex palate, and signature Elijah Craig character. Whether you’re hunting this bottle or simply love barrel proof bourbon, this episode offers a concise yet flavorful deep dive into one of the most talked-about releases of the year.

Subscribe
🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. Keep this at the bottom
📸 Follow on Instagram: ⁨@bourbonlens⁩
🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com
Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSU

Hashtags
#ElijahCraig #BarrelProof #B525 #HeavenHill #BourbonReview #BourbonTasting #WhiskeyNotes #5MinuteFridays #BourbonLens #BourbonEnthusiast

Key Takeaways

• Elijah Craig Barrel Proof B525 is a standout release
• B recipe batches are usually lower proof, but B525 comes in hot at 126.2
• The traditional Heaven Hill profile shines with cocoa, vanilla, and nuttiness
• The palate delivers corn sweetness layered with chocolate oak
• B525 feels quintessentially Elijah Craig in character
• Nearly 12 years of aging adds depth and a rich, woody funk
• Jake is excited for upcoming releases like A126 and B526
• This bottle is highly recommended for bourbon enthusiasts
• Complexity and richness define the overall experience
• If you see one on the shelf, it’s worth grabbing

Soundbites

• “Elijah Craig B525 is a standout bourbon.”
• “Traditional Heaven Hill profile includes cocoa, vanilla, and nuttiness.”
• “The bourbon has a complex palate with corn sweetness.”
• “Jake finds B525 to be quintessential Elijah Craig.”
• “The bourbon is nearly 12 years old.”
• “Listeners are encouraged to grab a bottle.”
• “B525 is recommended for bourbon enthusiasts.”
• “Excited for future releases like A126 and B526.”

Keywords
Elijah Craig, Barrel Proof, B525, bourbon, whiskey, tasting notes, Heaven Hill, cocoa, vanilla, nuttiness, bourbon enthusiasts

In this episode of Thursday Thoughts, Jake Lewellen breaks down everything you need to know about bourbon—America’s native spirit. From its deep-rooted history and the origins of its name to the lasting impact of the Bottled and Bond Act of 1897 and the disruption caused by Prohibition, this episode covers it all. Jake explains the strict legal standards that define bourbon, including mash bills, aging requirements, and what “straight bourbon” really means. He also dives into common bourbon flavor profiles and shares approachable tasting tips for beginners and seasoned drinkers alike. Whether you enjoy bourbon neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, this episode celebrates drinking bourbon your way while honoring the tradition behind the glass.

Subscribe
🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. Keep this at the bottom
📸 Follow on Instagram: ⁨@bourbonlens⁩
🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com
Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSU

Hashtags
#Bourbon #AmericanWhiskey #BottledInBond #BourbonHistory #WhiskeyEducation #BourbonTasting #StraightBourbon #WhiskeyPodcast #BourbonLens #ThursdayThoughts

Key Takeaways

• Bourbon is America’s native spirit with a rich historical legacy
• The Bottled and Bond Act of 1897 was the first U.S. consumer protection law
• Bourbon must be made from at least 51% corn
• Bourbon is aged in new, charred oak barrels
• Prohibition caused many historic distilleries to shut down
• Straight bourbon must be aged for a minimum of two years
• Corn-heavy mash bills give bourbon its signature sweetness
• Different mash bills create diverse flavor profiles
• There’s no wrong way to drink bourbon—enjoy it your way

Soundbites

• “Aged in new charred oak barrels.”
• “Drink it however you want!”
• “Tell us how you like to drink it!”

Keywords
bourbon, whiskey, American spirit, bottled in bond act, prohibition, bourbon history, bourbon flavor profiles, bourbon tasting tips, straight bourbon, American whiskey education

In this episode of The Bourbon Lens, hosts Jake and Scott dive headfirst into what 2026 could mean for the bourbon industry. From production pauses at major distilleries to the continued rise of craft producers and non-distilling producers (NDPs), the guys explore how shifting market dynamics are reshaping bourbon as we know it.

They break down why sustainability and intentional production matter more than ever, how consumer preferences are evolving toward fewer but higher-quality releases, and why experiential whiskey events and bourbon festivals will be critical for brands looking to stand out. Along the way, Jake and Scott also reflect on personal goals, creating lasting memories, and the role whiskey clubs and communities play in keeping bourbon culture thriving.

Whether you’re a casual drinker, a serious collector, or someone curious about where bourbon is headed next, this episode offers thoughtful insight into the future of whiskey in 2026 and beyond.

Subscribe

🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community.
📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens
🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com
💬 Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSU

Hashtags

#Bourbon #BourbonPodcast #Whiskey #WhiskeyPodcast #Bourbon2026 #CraftDistillery #BourbonIndustry #WhiskeyCommunity #NDP #BourbonTrends #AmericanWhiskey #BourbonCulture

Key Takeaways

• 2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for the bourbon industry
• Production pauses signal a push toward sustainability and long-term planning
• Craft distilleries are gaining momentum, especially at the regional level
• NDPs must innovate through blending, storytelling, and unique offerings
• Experiential engagement will be a major driver for bourbon brands
• Consumer demand is shifting toward fewer, higher-quality releases
• Pricing and availability continue to influence buying behavior
• Bourbon festivals and shared experiences strengthen community
• Personal growth and intentional living are recurring themes for the hosts
• The bourbon industry remains cyclical, with trends constantly evolving

Soundbites

• “2026 is upon us.”
• “The hardest working still in bourbon.”
• “Fewer, bigger, better.”

Keywords

Bourbon, Bourbon Podcast, Whiskey Podcast, Bourbon 2026, Craft Distilleries, NDPs, Non Distilling Producers, Whiskey Production, Bourbon Industry Trends, Bourbon Festivals, Whiskey Community, American Whiskey, Personal Growth, Bourbon Market

In this episode of The Bourbon Lens, Jake Lewellen takes a closer look at New Riff’s Balboa Rye 95.5, a standout rye whiskey that showcases the distillery’s continued innovation and quality. Jake breaks down the tasting notes, highlighting a creamy, fruity nose followed by a balanced palate of sugary citrus and peppery rye spice.

This rye delivers a smooth yet flavorful experience, making it an excellent pour to kick off the year. Beyond the glass, Jake discusses why New Riff is a distillery to watch in 2026, pointing to their creative releases, thoughtful mash bills, and increasing use of older age statements that continue to elevate their portfolio.

If you’re a rye whiskey fan or curious about emerging trends in American whiskey, this episode is a must-listen.

Subscribe

🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community.
📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens
🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com
💬 Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSU

Hashtags

#NewRiff #BalboaRye #RyeWhiskey #WhiskeyReview #BourbonLens #WhiskeyPodcast #AmericanWhiskey #CraftDistillery #WhiskeyTasting #RyeReview #BourbonCommunity

Key Takeaways

• New Riff Balboa Rye 95.5 delivers a creamy, fruity, and well-balanced rye profile
• The nose offers soft fruit and cream notes
• The palate balances sugary citrus with classic rye pepper spice
• Balboa Rye 95.5 is an approachable yet flavorful rye whiskey
• New Riff continues to stand out through innovation and quality
• Older age statements position New Riff as a distillery to watch in 2026

Soundbites

• “A creamy, fruity rye that really stands out.”
• “This is a great way to start the year.”
• “New Riff is absolutely one to watch in 2026.”

Keywords

New Riff, Balboa Rye 95.5, Rye Whiskey Review, New Riff Distillery, Rye Whiskey, American Rye, Craft Whiskey, Whiskey Podcast, Whiskey Tasting Notes, Bourbon Lens, Whiskey 2026 Trends

In this episode of The Bourbon Lens Podcast, Jake and Scott welcome Jay West, widely known in the bourbon community as T8ke, and now the Principal Whiskeymaker at Middleburg Barrel Company. Jay joins the show to discuss his unique path through the whiskey world—from the early days of Reddit’s r/bourbon community, to his work with Whiskey Raiders, and into his current role shaping Middleburg’s growing portfolio of American whiskey.

The conversation explores how Jay’s years as a whiskey critic and reviewer helped refine his palate and approach to barrel selection and blending. Jake, Scott, and Jay discuss Middleburg Barrel Company’s current releases, including The Reveries and Provenance Bourbon, and how Jay balances creativity, deep bourbon knowledge, and practical grit when building a whiskey brand in today’s competitive market.

Jay also shares insight into his long-term vision for Middleburg Barrel Company, plans to expand the portfolio, and what it takes to transition from evaluating whiskey to actively creating it. Throughout the episode, listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at modern independent whiskey making through the lens of one of the most respected palates in American bourbon.

About Jay West (T8ke):

Jay West is a multifaceted spirits professional with a foundation rooted in years of experience as a professional critic and spirits writer, having reviewed thousands of whiskeys from around the world. He has been featured in major lifestyle and spirits-focused publications such as Gear Patrol, Men’s Health, Bourbon Pursuit, The Bourbon Life Podcast, The RumCast, and more. Through his work, Jay has established himself as a trusted voice in the industry, providing insight and expertise that resonate with both casual enthusiasts and seasoned connoisseurs.

Jay’s expertise in barrel selection and blending has made him a sought-after figure in the whiskey community. Beyond his writing, he has collaborated with leading distilleries, brands, and industry professionals—including Beam Suntory and Diageo—to curate and create exclusive bottlings rooted in innovation. These releases have earned critical acclaim nationwide, showcasing his keen palate and ability to craft compelling whiskey experiences.

In his latest venture, Jay now lends his curation talents as Principal Whiskeymaker at Middleburg Barrel Company, makers of Provenance Bourbon. In this role, he oversees barrel selection and blending, ensuring each release meets the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.

In this episode of The Bourbon Lens Podcast, Jake and Scott welcome Kevin Aslan of Hotaling & Co., Head Distiller/Blender for Old Potrero, and a longtime friend of the show. The conversation spans two shared passions—gin and rye whiskey—and highlights what makes Old Potrero one of the most distinctive producers in American whiskey.

Jake and Scott dive into Kevin's and Scott's mutual love of gin, including a discussion of Junipero Gin and its lineup, exploring how botanical balance and unique gin prodction resonates with modern drinkers.

The conversation then shifts to Old Potrero's approach to rye whiskey, focusing on its use of 100% malted rye grain, a style that sets the distillery apart from traditional rye producers. The group discusses the Old Potrero 6 Year Old Toasted Barrel Malted Rye Whiskey, examining how toasted oak influences sweetness, spice, and mouthfeel.

The episode wraps with a tasting and deeper discussion of an allocated Old Potrero Cellar Series release—the Toasted Barrel Rye Whiskey finished in Gundlach Bundschu Gewürztraminer barrels. Kevin shares insight into how wine finishing, barrel selection, and malted rye interact to create layered, expressive whiskey, while Jake and Scott reflect on how these finishes expand the conversation around American rye.

Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform, and if you enjoy what you hear, we'd love for you to leave us a review.

We're incredibly grateful for your continued support over the past six years. A special thank you goes out to our amazing community of Patreon supporters—your support helps keep Bourbon Lens going strong! If you're enjoying the podcast, consider leaving a 5-star rating, writing a quick review, and sharing the show with a fellow bourbon enthusiast.

You can follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X. Want to go a step further? Support us on Patreon for exclusive behind-the-scenes content, Bourbon Lens swag, access to our Tasting Club, and more.

Have questions, feedback, or guest suggestions? Drop us a line at [email protected].

Explore BourbonLens.com for blog posts, the latest whiskey news, our full podcast archive, and detailed whiskey reviews.

Cheers,
Scott & Jake
Bourbon Lens

In this episode of The Bourbon Lens Podcast, Jake and Scott travel to Clermont, Kentucky to sit down with Alex Bowie, Director of Homeplace Experiences at the James B. Beam Distilling Co. The conversation was recorded on location in Beam's brand-new podcast studio, with Bourbon Lens receiving early access to the space for an exclusive insider look.

While working through a few first-day kinks in the new studio, Jake and Scott explore what makes the Beam Homeplace experience unique and dive into the current and upcoming whiskey innovations coming out of the James B. Beam Distilling Co. Alex shares insight into how Beam approaches storytelling, hospitality, and innovation while honoring generations of bourbon-making tradition.

A major focus of the episode is the debut of the Hardin's Creek Warehouse Series, a new limited collection designed to showcase how different warehouse environments shape bourbon flavor. The discussion breaks down how rickhouse design, height, and microclimate influence maturation—even when all other production variables remain the same.

The episode wraps with a look at Beam's newly announced partnership with the Cadillac Formula One Team, set to debut during Cadillac's inaugural 2026 F1 season, highlighting Beam's expanding global presence and crossover into motorsports culture.

Hardin's Creek Warehouse Series: Release Details

A New Chapter in Hardin's Creek Innovation

The Hardin's Creek Warehouse Series is a limited, three-part collection that builds on the brand's experimental roots. Following the 2023 Kentucky Series—which explored terroir across multiple Beam campuses—this release isolates a single variable: the warehouse itself. Each bourbon uses the same mash bill and production process, allowing the aging environment to take center stage.

As Freddie Noe, Eighth Generation Master Distiller at the James B. Beam Distilling Co., explains, the Warehouse Series demonstrates how maturation environments alone can dramatically shape flavor.

The Three Warehouse Expressions

Warehouse R – "The Mushroom"

• Aged in a single-story, windowless warehouse

• Cool, dark conditions similar to a forest floor

• Flavor profile emphasizes deep oak influence and toasted sweetness

• 55% ABV (110 proof), 11 years old

Warehouse W – "The Beaver"

• Aged in a nearly 100-year-old, five-story rickhouse near a creek

• Produces a balanced bourbon with lighter oak smoke and depth

• 55% ABV (110 proof), 11 years old

Warehouse G – "The Owl"

• Aged in a towering nine-story warehouse

• Results in layered aromatics and increased complexity

• 55% ABV (110 proof), 11 years old

Each bottle features artwork by surrealist artist Max Loeffler, using symbolic characters and hidden design elements to tell the story of each warehouse environment.

• SRP: $149.99 per 700mL bottle

• Availability: Limited, select markets

Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform, and if you enjoy what you hear, we'd love for you to leave us a review.

We're incredibly grateful for your continued support over the past six years. A special thank you goes out to our amazing community of Patreon supporters—your support helps keep Bourbon Lens going strong! If you're enjoying the podcast, consider leaving a 5-star rating, writing a quick review, and sharing the show with a fellow bourbon enthusiast.

You can follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X. Want to go a step further? Support us on Patreon for exclusive behind-the-scenes content, Bourbon Lens swag, access to our Tasting Club, and more.

Have questions, feedback, or guest suggestions? Drop us a line at [email protected].

Explore BourbonLens.com for blog posts, the latest whiskey news, our full podcast archive, and detailed whiskey reviews.

Cheers,
Scott & Jake
Bourbon Lens

In this episode of The Bourbon Lens Podcast, Jake and Scott sit down with Chris Fletcher, Master Distiller at Jack Daniel's Distillery, to discuss several of the most exciting recent and upcoming releases from the historic Tennessee distillery.

The conversation covers the debut of Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Heritage Barrel Tennessee Whiskey, a new year-round offering built around barrels matured at the distillery's highest elevations. Chris walks through the unique Heritage Barrel program, how lower barrel entry proof and warehouse placement influence flavor, and why this release reflects Jack Daniel's traditional approach to whiskey making.

Jake and Scott also dive into the latest Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Special Release Tanyard Hill Rye, a barrel proof Tennessee rye aged in one of the distillery's earliest barrelhouses located atop the historic Tanyard Hill site. The group discusses how location-driven maturation, long aging, and high proof combine to create a powerful and complex rye whiskey.

Additional topics include the introduction of a new 3-liter Jack Daniel's bottle, the continued evolution of Jack Daniel's limited and special releases, and the distillery's high-profile partnership with McLaren Formula One, two-time reigning World Constructors' Champions. Throughout the episode, Chris shares insight into how Jack Daniel's balances heritage, innovation, and global reach while staying rooted in Lynchburg.

Featured Whiskeys & Release Details

Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Heritage Barrel Tennessee Whiskey

• Distillery: Jack Daniel Distillery, Lynchburg, TN
• Whiskey Type: Tennessee Whiskey
• Mash Bill: 80% corn, 8% rye, 12% malted barley
• Proof: 100 proof (also barrel entry proof)
• Age: 8 years
• MSRP: $69.99 (2025)
• Availability: Year-round, Single Barrel Collection

Matured at least seven years in Jack Daniel's highest-elevation barrelhouses, Heritage Barrel delivers a soft oak nose with vanilla and graham cracker, followed by rich flavors of vanilla, marshmallow, and toffee. The finish lingers with brown sugar and oak, offering a balanced, classic Tennessee whiskey profile.

Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Special Release Tanyard Hill Rye

• Whiskey Type: Barrel Proof Tennessee Rye Whiskey
• Mash Bill: 70% rye, 18% corn, 12% malted barley
• Distillation Date: November 2015
• Barrelhouse: Tanyard Hill Barrel House 1
• Proof Range: 130.2–148.8 proof (65.1%–74.4% ABV)
• Bottle Size: 700mL
• MSRP: $79.99
• Availability: Limited, nationwide

Aged in one of the earliest barrelhouses on the Jack Daniel's campus, Tanyard Hill Rye showcases dark fruit and sweet oak aromas, with flavors of candied mint, dark chocolate, and baking spice. The finish brings clove, sweet tobacco, and oak, highlighting the intensity and depth that come from long aging and barrel proof bottling.

Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform, and if you enjoy what you hear, we'd love for you to leave us a review.

We're incredibly grateful for your continued support over the past six years. A special thank you goes out to our amazing community of Patreon supporters—your support helps keep Bourbon Lens going strong! If you're enjoying the podcast, consider leaving a 5-star rating, writing a quick review, and sharing the show with a fellow bourbon enthusiast.

You can follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X. Want to go a step further? Support us on Patreon for exclusive behind-the-scenes content, Bourbon Lens swag, access to our Tasting Club, and more.

Have questions, feedback, or guest suggestions? Drop us a line at [email protected].

Explore BourbonLens.com for blog posts, the latest whiskey news, our full podcast archive, and detailed whiskey reviews.

Cheers,
Scott & Jake
Bourbon Lens

Image Credit: Jack Daniel Distillery

Bourbon Lens welcomes Jennifer Brian, "Cocktail Evangelist" and founder of Make & Muddle, to discuss her upcoming book, The Classic Cocktail Revival, which released in September 2025 from the University Press of Kentucky.

Born in the Bluegrass and shaped by deep family roots in Eastern Kentucky, Jennifer's earliest memories of hospitality, food traditions, and gracious gatherings laid the foundation for her 25-year career in the hospitality industry. From luxury catering and event planning to becoming a nationally recognized cocktail evangelist, her work centers on collaboration, education, and making cocktails approachable for everyone.

In this episode, Jennifer shares the inspiration behind The Classic Cocktail Revival, exploring why timeless cocktail recipes are experiencing a resurgence and how classic techniques continue to resonate with modern drinkers. We also dive into the story behind Make & Muddle, Jennifer's craft syrup and shrub company designed to simplify beverage making without sacrificing quality. Whether you're a professional bartender or a home host, Jennifer explains how thoughtful ingredients and a collaborative spirit can elevate any cocktail experience.

You can purchase the book wherever books are sold, including at Carmicheal's in Louisville.   We encourage you to support your local independent bookstore this holiday season.  

Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform, and if you enjoy what you hear, we'd love for you to leave us a review.

We're incredibly grateful for your continued support over the past six years. A special thank you goes out to our amazing community of Patreon supporters—your support helps keep Bourbon Lens going strong! If you're enjoying the podcast, consider leaving a 5-star rating, writing a quick review, and sharing the show with a fellow bourbon enthusiast.

You can follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X. Want to go a step further? Support us on Patreon for exclusive behind-the-scenes content, Bourbon Lens swag, access to our Tasting Club, and more.

Have questions, feedback, or guest suggestions? Drop us a line at [email protected].

Explore BourbonLens.com for blog posts, the latest whiskey news, our full podcast archive, and detailed whiskey reviews.

Cheers,
Scott & Jake
Bourbon Lens

In this episode of The Bourbon Lens Podcast, Jake and Scott sit down with members of the team behind Burnt Tavern Bourbon, a new bourbon developed by William Berkele Distillery in collaboration with renowned whiskey maker Chip Tate.

Joining the conversation are Bennett Clark, President of William Berkele Distillery, Royce Blevins, Lead Founder, and Chip Tate, Master Distiller. Together, they discuss the origins of Burnt Tavern Bourbon, the historical inspiration behind the brand, and how William Berkele Distillery is bringing a centuries-old story into the modern whiskey landscape.

The episode explores the collaborative process behind developing Burnt Tavern Bourbon, Chip Tate's approach to wood finishing and flavor development, and how the team balanced tradition with innovation to create a distinct new American whiskey. Jake and Scott also dig into the challenges and opportunities facing new bourbon brands today, and what sets Burnt Tavern apart in an increasingly crowded market.

Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform, and if you enjoy what you hear, we'd love for you to leave us a review.

We're incredibly grateful for your continued support over the past six years. A special thank you goes out to our amazing community of Patreon supporters—your support helps keep Bourbon Lens going strong! If you're enjoying the podcast, consider leaving a 5-star rating, writing a quick review, and sharing the show with a fellow bourbon enthusiast.

You can follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X. Want to go a step further? Support us on Patreon for exclusive behind-the-scenes content, Bourbon Lens swag, access to our Tasting Club, and more.

Have questions, feedback, or guest suggestions? Drop us a line at [email protected].

Explore BourbonLens.com for blog posts, the latest whiskey news, our full podcast archive, and detailed whiskey reviews.

Cheers,
Scott & Jake
Bourbon Lens

Chip Tate – Master Distiller

Chip Tate is a trailblazer in American craft distilling. He founded his first distillery in 2008, combining his passion for fermentation, culinary arts, and hands-on craftsmanship. With a diverse background spanning brewing, IT, physics, and philosophy, Chip brings a uniquely creative and technical perspective to whiskey making.

As the founder of Balcones Distilling, Chip hand-built his copper stills and created award-winning whiskies that earned nearly 150 national and international honors, including Whisky Magazine's Icon of Whisky and the World Whiskies Award for Best American Whisky.

Inspired by William Berkele's centuries-old bourbon heritage and the story of Burnt Tavern, Chip applied his vision and wood-finishing expertise to craft this distinct new bourbon brand. He lives in Texas with his wife, Rachel, and their two children. Outside the distillery, Chip enjoys playing guitar and cooking.

Bennett Clark – President, William Berkele Distillery

Bennett Clark is the President of William Berkele Distillery, where he oversees daily operations, logistics, and contract management. With a background in real estate, construction, development, and coaching, Bennett brings broad industry experience and a practical, results-driven leadership style.

His strengths in sales, project management, and consulting have helped guide the distillery's growth, operational strategy, and collaborative partnerships. A native of Danville, Kentucky, Bennett holds a Bachelor of Arts from Centre College.

Bennett has lived in Lexington, Kentucky for more than 20 years and is married with three daughters. Outside of work, he is an avid golfer and remains active in his local community.

Royce Blevins – Lead Founder, William Berkele Distillery

Royce Blevins is the Lead Founder of William Berkele Distillery, playing a central role in the planning, development, and operations of the company. He brings over 20 years of experience in facilities management, construction, and plant operations.

Royce holds multiple professional licenses in plumbing, electrical, and HVAC, and is EPA certified, providing deep technical expertise across complex production environments. In addition to his role at William Berkele Distillery, he serves as Senior Manager of Facilities and Corporate Services at YUM Brands in Louisville, Kentucky.

Previously, Royce was the Facilities Director at the Kentucky Horse Park, where he helped manage major events including the 2010 World Equestrian Games and the annual Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. He is also an accomplished NCAA women's basketball official. A lifelong Central Kentuckian, Royce is married and has four children.