Uncle Nearest is being sued for $100M and is publicly fighting back, IW Harper releases a 34 year old bourbon, and Parker’s Heritage #19 details are announced.

In this insightful episode of Bourbon Pursuit, hosts Kenny Coleman and Ryan Cecil sit down with MASH Networks co-founders Ari Sussman and Bruce Fougere to tackle the crucial topic of direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales in the craft spirits industry. The conversation dives into how technology, data-driven strategies, and powerful storytelling are no longer optional for distillers but essential for survival and growth. Ari and Bruce share how their company, MASH Networks, helps brands like Mammoth Distillery navigate complex regulations and expand beyond local markets by leveraging customer data and creating meaningful engagement. They explain how everything from QR codes on bottles to affinity-group marketing can be used to build a loyal community and drive repeat sales. Ultimately, the episode serves as a masterclass in how small distilleries can embrace a forward-thinking, entrepreneurial mindset to not only survive but thrive in an evolving industry by turning customers into advocates.

This 10 year old bourbon is 94.4 proof and $195 MSRP.

In this episode of Bourbon Pursuit, host Kenny Coleman sits down with Greg Cohen, co-founder of the whiskey subscription service Pour More, and whiskey critic Fred Minnick. The trio explores the evolving subscription model in the whiskey industry, traversing topics from marketing strategies to customer retention. Greg shares his journey into the whiskey world, discussing how Pour More emerged during the COVID boom and his innovative approach to curating whiskey experiences that resonate with consumers. Throughout the conversation, they tackle the challenges of sourcing whiskey amid state laws, the role of customer feedback in shaping offerings, and strategies for attracting a diverse clientele. Notably, Greg aims to break the traditional “whiskey bro” stereotype by showcasing the stories behind the distillers, creating a more inclusive space in whiskey culture. They also discuss the importance of community engagement, highlighting potential live tastings with distillers to foster connections among subscribers. As the episode concludes, they collectively reflect on the future of whiskey subscriptions and the vital role of unique storytelling.

This non-age stated bourbon is 109.2 proof and $75 MSRP.

Luca Mariano files for chapter 11, Kentucky’s Attorney General files a lawsuit against Temu, and Sazerac releases Sazerac Rye 100.

In this episode of Bourbon Pursuit, hosts Kenny Coleman, Jordan Moskal, Fred Minnick, Brian Haara, and special guest Blake Riber tackle the hot topic of hazmat whiskies—those high-proof spirits exceeding 140 proof that have recently surged in popularity. The discussion kicks off with a lighthearted banter about technical issues at the studio before diving into the history and rise of hazmat bourbons. Fred provides context on how these robust offerings were once rare but have become more accessible due to increasing consumer demand. The team debates the misconception that higher proof equals better quality, with Ryan drawing parallels to trends in the craft beer scene. Blake shares insights from a retailer’s perspective on the novelty and sales boost of hazmat bottles, while also addressing the logistical concerns surrounding their shipping. As the conversation unfolds, the hosts speculate on whether the current obsession with such high-proof options can sustain itself in the long run, pondering if future whiskey trends might shift focus back towards flavor over extremes.

This 4 year old bourbon is 105 proof and $60 MSRP.

Stitzel-Weller Distillery is up for sale, Brothers Wright Distilling Co. acquires Dueling Barrels Brewery & Distillery, and Buffalo Trace Distillery is releasing Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Distiller’s Council.

I'm excited to welcome Chris Blandford back on the show. He holds the title of Adult Beverage Field Specialist for Kroger. He’s right there on the front lines of consumer trends, and he’s got some amazing insights into the changing landscape of bourbon, and he's also the content development lead for the bourbon and culinary stage at Bourbon & Beyond, a music festival right here in Louisville you've heard us talk about before. We talk about evolving consumer tastes because there is a trend back towards lower proof whiskey and some hilarious stories about those high-potency THC infused drinks that are making waves. Chris also shares his inspiring personal journey of health transformation, which is a fantastic parallel to his work. Plus, you’ll get a sneak peek into the exciting experiences waiting for everyone at Bourbon & Beyond.

This 9 year old bourbon is 100 proof and $130 MSRP.

New Riff Distilling has availability of 6-Year-Old Single Barrel Bourbon for Selections, Starlight Distillery is releasing its first ever 10-Year Bourbon, and Bardstown Bourbon Company has unveiled Hokkaido Japanese Mizunara Oak Barrel Finish.

Bruce Russell joins us again to share how he is carving his own path at Wild Turkey but also honoring the incredible legacy of his father Eddie and grandfather Jimmy. Get ready for some great stories as Bruce opens up about growing up in the Wild Turkey family, his shift back from Texas, and how he's embraced product development, bringing exciting new high-proof offerings and their latest eight-year 101 proof bourbon to life. This episode takes a few different twists as we talk about blending blending, barrel selections, and how Wild Turkey's continual packaging changes. Plus, Bruce gives us an honest look at the challenges of being a public figure in the bourbon world, getting noticed wherever he goes, and gives you a list of his favorite Louisville dining spots.

This 4 year old bourbon is 110.3 proof and $56 MSRP.

Dark Arts Whiskey House has opened doors to their new brand home, Jackie Zykan is stepping away from Hidden Barn Bourbon, and Chattanooga Whiskey has two new experimental liqueurs.

We sit down with Al Laws, the guy behind Laws Whiskey House in Colorado. Laws is known for their four-grain bourbon, but Al's journey wasn't always in whiskey and he took some pivots from the world of finance and oil to get there. We dive deep into Al's whiskey-making philosophy and he shares some great stories about sourcing grains right there in Colorado and how they approach their flavor profiles. Of course, we're also going to talk about the business side of things, including the financial hurdles distilleries face, especially in the wake of the pandemic. Colorado was also on the forefront on the rise of cannibis and we talk about how Laws Whiskey House navigated through that boom in his area.

This 17 year old bourbon is 92 proof and $200 MSRP.

In this dynamic episode of Bourbon Pursuit, host Kenny Coleman engages a panel of bourbon aficionados including Fred Minnick, Blake Seelbach, Eric from Breaking Bourbon, and Brian Sipp from Sip and Corn. The conversation kicks off with light banter about technical hiccups and distillation woes before delving into the intricacies of launching a bourbon brand today versus five years ago. Blake notes that while starting a brand is more accessible due to available resources, brand survival relies heavily on smart distribution strategies within a consolidating market. The group discusses crucial topics such as consumer education, the art of storytelling, and the competitive landscape with established brands. Fred highlights the evolving expectations of consumers, underscoring the necessity for new brands to offer both quality and effective marketing.

This 8 year old bourbon is 101 proof and $45 MSRP.

Whiskey House and The Koetter Group will build 12 state-of-the-art rickhouses, Maker's Mark has announced a new exhibition by contemporary artist Dale Chihuly, and Dierks Bentley is introducing ROW 94 Broken Branches.

In this episode, Bernie takes us through his fascinating career, including his pivotal role in bringing bottled-in-bond back into the spotlight, how tasting events have evolved, and the impact of age statements on bourbon production. Get ready for some fantastic anecdotes as Bernie shares his passion for whiskey, why quality always comes first, and his take on current market trends, like the growing demand for older, stronger bourbons. Of course, we couldn't have Bernie without a tasting, so we're pouring Bernheim Barrel Proof and William Heaven Hill – a true celebration of unique whiskeys among friends. As he reflects on his new Ambassador Emeritus role and what "retirement" actually means for Bernie Lubbers, he gives us some amazing insights into the relationships and creativity that truly fuel the bourbon community. Plus, stick around for some exciting teasers of upcoming releases and Bernie's signature blend of whiskey education with a dash of bluegrass!

This 6-7 year old bourbon is 104.5 proof and $125 MSRP.

The Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame announced new inductees, Bardstown Bourbon announces their new club program, and Stitzel-Weller Distillery is launching Stitzel Reserve.