Bourbon Lens

364: Inside James B. Beam Distilling Co. and Hardin's Creek with Alex Bowie

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 Info@BourbonLens.com. Explore BourbonLens.com for blog posts, the latest whiskey news, our full podcast archive, and detailed whiskey reviews. Cheers, Scott & Jake Bourbon Lens  

363: Jack Daniel's New Tanyard Hill Rye & Heritage Barrel with Chris Fletcher

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 Info@BourbonLens.com. 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

362: Inside The Classic Cocktail Revival with Jennifer Brian

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 Info@BourbonLens.com. Explore BourbonLens.com for blog posts, the latest whiskey news, our full podcast archive, and detailed whiskey reviews. Cheers, Scott & Jake Bourbon Lens  

361: Burnt Tavern Bourbon & William Berkele Distillery

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 Info@BourbonLens.com. 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.  

360: Inside the Estate Whiskey Alliance at UK's Beam Institute

Bourbon Lens heads to Lexington, Kentucky for an on-location episode at the James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits, located at the University of Kentucky. We sit down with Alexa Narel, Operations Manager for the Estate Whiskey Alliance, and Landon Borders, Director, to explore how the Alliance is reshaping the future of whiskey grain, sustainability, and transparency. The Estate Whiskey Alliance (EWA) brings together farmers, distillers, researchers, and industry partners to develop scientifically backed standards for estate-grown whiskey. Alexa and Landon break down what "estate whiskey" means, how grain provenance impacts flavor, and why agriculture is rapidly becoming the next frontier in premium bourbon production. This episode offers an inside look at the research and innovations driving estate-grown grains and the future of terroir in American whiskey. 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 Info@BourbonLens.com. Explore BourbonLens.com for blog posts, the latest whiskey news, our full podcast archive, and detailed whiskey reviews. Cheers, Scott & Jake Bourbon Lens