The Art of Barrel Finishing with Bill Straub from Four Gate Whiskey

I had the pleasure of sitting down with Bill Straub from Four Gate Whiskey, a company that's been shaking up the American whiskey scene with their innovative barrel finishing techniques.

Bill gave us a deep dive into the origins of Four Gate, which started back in 2018 with the idea of bringing a wider spectrum of flavors to American whiskey, much like the variety found in world whiskeys. He explained how their partnership with Kelvin Cooperage, a key player in their whiskey-making process, allows them to experiment with a variety of used barrels from around the world, bringing unique flavors to their products.

We discussed their recent release, the Kelvin 60, which celebrates the 60th anniversary of Kelvin Cooperage. This release is a testament to the close relationship between Four Gate and the cooperage, highlighting the craftsmanship that goes into the barrels that shape the flavor of their whiskey.

Bill also touched on the challenges and considerations of running a whiskey brand that's both a critic and a producer. He shared his journey from a financial/data analyst to a whiskey brand owner, and how his passion for bourbon and writing led him to create Modern Thirst, a website that eventually paved the way for Four Gate.

Looking ahead, Bill shared some exciting news about their upcoming releases for 2024, including a triple oak whiskey and a rum-finished bourbon called Dearborn Pirates. He also mentioned their plans for a Madeira finish, something he's been eager to explore.

For those interested in the business side of things, Bill provided insights into their liquid strategy and how they project their growth and roadmap for the future. He emphasized the importance of not overcooking their whiskey with the finishing process, ensuring that the original spirit's character shines through.

Lastly, we discussed the current state of the whiskey market, the trend of barrel finishing, and how Four Gate is navigating the crowded space with their unique offerings.

It was an enlightening conversation with Bill, full of insights into the craft of whiskey making and the business acumen required to run a successful brand in today's market. If you're a whiskey enthusiast or just curious about the industry, this episode is a must-listen. Don't forget to check out Four Gate Whiskey's latest releases and keep an eye out for their future innovations.