In this episode of the Drinks.com podcast, host Brandon Amoroso speaks with Jota Tanaka, the master blender of Fuji Whisky. They delve into Tanaka's remarkable journey from brewing and winemaking in California and Kentucky to his role at Fuji Gotemba Distillery. Jota shares his insights into whiskey blending, market trends, and the impact of global demand on Japanese whiskey. He also discusses the delicate balance between tradition and innovation while introducing the special 50th-anniversary single malt blend. Listen in to uncover the artistry, legacy, and global vision that define Fuji Whisky's approach to crafting spirits.

Topic timestamps:
🎙️ Introduction to the episode and guest introductions (00:00:00)
🌏 Jota Tanaka shares his background and journey into the alcohol industry (00:00:40)
🕰️ Changes in the alcohol industry over the past few decades (00:06:02)
📈 Popularity and pricing issues with Japanese whiskey (00:07:45)
🥃 Whiskey production process and differences from wine (00:09:26)
🏭 Production capacity of the Fuji Gotemba Distillery (00:14:17)
🍶 Other products Fuji Whisky produces (00:15:20)
🌍 Fuji Whisky's export markets and expansion strategy (00:16:48)
🪵 The types of barrels used in aging and the differences between age labels (00:17:09)
🧪 The factors that affect the aging process and exclusivity of high-quality whiskeys (00:18:11)
🤖 Role of technology in whiskey blending and production (00:21:12)
🔮 The future of the whiskey market and changing consumer interests (00:25:02)
📜 Importance of legacy and tradition in whiskey making (00:32:42)

Jota Tanaka:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jota-tanaka-a19a37146/

Brandon Amoroso:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonamoroso/
Web - https://brandonamoroso.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bamoroso11/
X - https://twitter.com/AmorosoBrandon

Step into the world of wine innovation with host Brandon Amoroso and special guest Johan Eide, the mastermind behind Region and Sampl. Together, they unravel the complexities of wine production, the power of direct-to-consumer sales, and the future of tasting room experiences. Join them as they uncork the secrets to authentic wine engagement and toast to a future where tradition meets innovation.

Topic timestamps:
👨‍💼 Introduction to Johan Eide's Background (00:00:00)
📜 Transition from Law to Wine Industry (00:01:07)
🦠 Challenges During the COVID-19 Pandemic (00:02:37)
🌱 Evolution of Region and Sampl (00:03:05)
🍷 Exploration of Wine Industry Trends (00:04:30)
💼 Application of Patent Experience (00:06:05)
🔒 Compliance in the Alcohol Industry (00:08:54)
💡 Innovation in the Wine Industry (00:09:44)
🛠️ Challenges and Opportunities in Technology (00:11:52)
📱 Digital Platforms Reshaping the Wine Market (00:13:53)
🍇 Challenges for Small Wine Producers (00:18:03)
🏠 Importance of Direct-to-Consumer Sales (00:19:45)
📬 Enhancing Post-Visit Communication (00:21:56)
💳 Making Wine Purchases Approachable (00:24:07)
👧 Demystifying Wine for Younger Consumers (00:25:32)
🤖 Impact of Technology on Consumer Preferences (00:28:17)
🔍 Significance of Transparency (00:29:39)
🏷️ Private Label Practices in Wine (00:32:59)
🍷 Favorite Wines and Companions (00:34:52)

Johan Eide

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/johan-eide-8191b9114

Brandon Amoroso:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonamoroso/

Web - https://brandonamoroso.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bamoroso11/

X - https://twitter.com/AmorosoBrandon

Join Brandon Amoroso as he explores the dynamic world of online alcohol sales with Philip James, the visionary founder of Firstleaf, on The DRINKS.com Podcast. Delve into Philip's journey from the UK to pioneering the digital wine industry in the US, and uncover the innovative approach of Firstleaf in personalized wine recommendations. From discussing wine production intricacies to navigating the challenges of brand loyalty and the impact of the pandemic on the industry, Brandon and Philip offer invaluable insights. Discover the transformative role of technology, including Firstleaf's mobile app and the use of generative AI, in reshaping industries and adapting to evolving market dynamics. Gain a profound understanding of the intricate interplay between technology, consumer behavior, and industry evolution in this captivating episode.

Topic timestamps:

🍇 Introduction to Firstleaf and Philip James (00:00:00)

🍾 Simplifying Wine Selection for Consumers (00:02:40)

🧪 Personalization and Recommendation Algorithms (00:06:24)

🍇🔬 Science Behind Wine Personalization (00:08:01)

🍷🔒 Challenges of Brand Loyalty in Wine (00:18:04)

📦 Future Trends in Wine Packaging and Retail (00:16:36)

🚀 Exciting Prospects for 2023 Amidst Pandemic Recovery (00:20:00)

💼 Effects of the Pandemic on Consumer Behavior and Supply Chains (00:26:39)

💪 Resilience and Adaptation of Businesses During the Pandemic (00:28:43)

🔄 Rapid Shifts and Technological Advancements Shaping Industries (00:30:57)

🤖 Utilization and Implications of Generative AI in Business Operations (00:35:00)

📱 Ways to Connect with Philip James and Closing Remarks (00:36:21)

Philip James

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/philipjames/

Firstleaf - https://www.firstleaf.com/

Brandon Amoroso:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonamoroso/

Web - https://brandonamoroso.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bamoroso11/

X - https://twitter.com/AmorosoBrandon