The Art of the Sip: A Bourbon Tasting Guide for Beginners
There’s a moment on almost every bourbon tour when someone looks at me and asks: “How do you actually taste this stuff?” Not in a rude way. In a genuine way. Because let’s be honest. Bourbon can be intimidating. There’s a language around it. A ritual. And for people who are new to it, that […]
The Spirit of Kentucky: A Brief History of Bourbon and the People
One of my favorite things to do on a bourbon tour is stand at the edge of a rickhouse and look at thousands of barrels aging in front of me. And I always think the same thing. How did we get here? Not to this building. But to this moment. To bourbon becoming something people […]
Bourbon Myths: The Things I Hear on Tours That Make Me Smile
One of the best parts of my job is listening to the questions people ask on bourbon tours. Some are thoughtful. Some are hilarious. And some are bourbon myths that have been floating around for so long that people assume they must be true. The funny thing is, bourbon is surrounded by stories. That’s part […]
Bourbon Translation Guide: What Everyone Is Talking About
You’ve made it. We’ve talked about how bourbon is made, what happens inside the barrel, how to taste it, the history behind it, and a few myths that probably need to disappear forever. Now it’s time to learn the language. Because sooner or later you’ll find yourself standing in a distillery gift shop, reading a […]
The Science of the Stave: Why the Barrel Matters
One of the questions I get asked all the time on bourbon tours is this: “If bourbon is just corn, water, and yeast, why do two bourbons taste completely different?” The answer is simple. The barrel. In fact, most people are surprised to learn that the majority of the flavor in bourbon doesn’t come from […]
From Grain to Glass: How Bourbon Is Really Made
From Grain to Glass: How Bourbon Is Really Made July 26, 2026 One of my favorite things to do on a bourbon tour is ask a simple question: “What do you think bourbon is made from?” Most people immediately answer, “Corn.” And they’re right. But they’re also missing most of the story. Because bourbon isn’t […]
A Better Way to Start Your Bourbon Day
MORE BOURBON MATH. How to Plan Your Dream Bourbon Day: Why Buffalo Trace Shouldn’t Be Your First Stop Picture this: you’re finally in Kentucky, ready to experience the legendary bourbon trail. You’ve researched distilleries, mapped routes, and booked tours. Buffalo Trace sits at the top of your list, after all, it’s iconic, historic, and produces […]
What Corporate Leaders Really Want From a Bourbon Retreat
What Corporate Leaders Really Want From a Bourbon Retreat Corporate leaders rarely plan a bourbon retreat for the whiskey alone. They begin searching when something inside the organization needs attention. Connection may feel strained. Innovation may have slowed. Teams remain courteous but not fully aligned.
Bourbon Math: Why You’re Seeing More Aged Bourbon
Bourbon Math: Why You’re Suddenly Seeing More Aged Bourbon on the Shelf Walking through your local liquor store lately, you might have noticed something different. Bottles that were once as elusive as Derby tickets are sitting on shelves. Age-stated bourbons that required hunting, luck, and sometimes questionable friendships with store managers are suddenly… available. […]
What Gives Bourbon Its Beautiful Amber Color?
When people ask what makes bourbon brown, they usually think it’s just the charred oak. The truth is, it’s a combination of three things working together. When people ask what makes bourbon brown, they usually think it’s just the charred oak. The truth is, it’s a combination of three things working together. First, […]