Episodes

  • Things to Know Before You Go: KYBF24
    Aug 21 2024

    Welcome to another exciting episode of the Embellish Pod! In this episode, we dive deep into the world of bourbon with our special guest, Cordell, who joins us on behalf of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival. Cordell has an extensive background in the bourbon industry, having worked with renowned brands like Maker's Mark, Southern Comfort, Jack Daniels, Woodford Reserve, Kentucky Peerless, and now Eastern Light.

    In this episode, we discuss:

    Cordell's journey in the bourbon industry and his various roles. The history and evolution of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival. The unique experiences and offerings at this year's festival. The impact of bourbon tourism on Kentucky's economy. Exciting new features like the double-decker tent and the People's Choice Award. The importance of digital marketing in promoting the festival. Insights into the future of the festival and the bourbon industry.

    Whether you're a bourbon enthusiast or just curious about the festival, this episode is packed with valuable information and insights. Don't forget to hit the subscribe button and follow us on Instagram and TikTok at @embellishpod for more updates!

    Links:

    Email: embellishpod@gmail.com Website: www.embellishpod.com Instagram: @embellishpod TikTok: @embellishpod Kentucky Bourbon Festival: www.kybourbonfestival.com

    Timestamps:

    00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:56 - Cordell's Background in the Bourbon Industry 00:05:19 - Cordell's Role in the Kentucky Bourbon Festival 00:09:59 - Ticket Sales and Attendance Growth 00:14:39 - Expansion and New Features at the Festival 00:20:49 - Unique Expressions and Offerings 00:29:58 - Educational Opportunities at the Festival 00:33:23 - Evolution of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival 00:38:02 - Planning and Logistics 00:44:21 - Transportation and Shuttle Services

    Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes!Welcome to another exciting episode of the Embellish Pod!

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    49 mins
  • Blending Bourbon and Building Brands
    Aug 6 2024

    In this episode, I have the pleasure of hosting Dixon Dedman from 2XO and David Mark Young from Golden Sheaf. These two whiskey aficionados share their insights, experiences, and a whole lot of laughs as they dive into the world of whiskey blending, brand building, and the future of the spirits industry.

    Episode Highlights:

    Introduction: Meet our guests Dixon Dedman and David Mark Young.

    Whiskey Blending: The art and science behind creating the perfect blend.

    Brand Building: The challenges and triumphs of building a whiskey brand from the ground up.

    AI in Whiskey Production: David discusses the innovative use of data science and AI in the spirits industry.

    Sneakerhead Blend: Dixon gives us a sneak peek into the upcoming 2XO release.

    Travel Tales: The highs and lows of traveling for brand promotion.

    Connect with Us:

    Email: embellishpod@gmail.com Instagram: @embellishpod TikTok: @embellishpod Website: www.embellishpod.com

    Special Thanks:

    A big thank you to Dixon Dedman and David Mark Young for joining us and sharing their incredible stories and expertise.

    Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated with our latest episodes!

    Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:46 - Meet Dixon and David 02:47 - Whiskey Blending Insights 05:25 - Brand Building Challenges 10:36 - AI in Whiskey Production 16:12 - Sneakerhead Blend Preview 21:15 - Travel Tales 27:39 - Closing Thoughts

    #Whiskey #Podcast #BlendingBourbon #2XO #GoldenSheaf #AIinWhiskey #SneakerheadBlend #WhiskeyTravel #BrandBuilding #TheEmbellishPod

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    1 hr and 16 mins
  • Exploring the World of Rum with Club Kokomo Spirits
    Jul 30 2024

    In this episode of the EmbellishPod, Geoff from Club Kokomo Spirits joins the host to discuss the journey of creating rum and the unique aspects of rum production. Jeff shares insights into the different types of rum, including Barbadian, Jamaican, and Puerto Rican rums, and the importance of transparency in the rum industry.

    The conversation delves into the development of Club Kokomo's rum line, including the Barrel Finish rum, which won a double gold medal in San Francisco. Jeff explains the process of blending aged rums from various islands and finishing them in high rye bourbon barrels to create a whiskey-forward flavor profile.

    Listeners will learn about the collaboration between Club Kokomo and the Beach Boys' Mike Love, leading to the creation of both canned cocktails and premium rums. Jeff emphasizes the brand's commitment to transparency and quality, ensuring that their products stand out in the market.

    Tune in to discover the unique flavors and cocktail recommendations for Club Kokomo's Barrel Finish rum, and explore the world of rum through the lens of a passionate distiller and rum advocate. https://clubkokomospirits.com/ https://www.facebook.com/clubkokomospirits https://www.instagram.com/clubkokomospirits/ https://www.tiktok.com/@clubkokomo

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    1 hr and 15 mins
  • Family, Legacy, and Whiskey with the Call Family
    Jul 23 2024

    Hey bourbon enthusiasts! In this episode of the EmbellishPod, we dive into the world of distilling with Jacob and Clayton from Hemingway Whiskey and West Kentucky Distilling. Join us as we explore their family's eighth-generation legacy in the distilling space and their journey in the industry. From rebuilding old distilleries to creating innovative whiskey blends, these gentlemen share their experiences and plans for the future.

    Discover the story behind Hemingway Rye the Hemingway family and the Call family. Learn about their upcoming releases, including a special collector's edition at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival.

    Tune in to hear about their dedication to quality, tradition, and innovation in the world of bourbon and rye whiskey. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation with two passionate distillers and their exciting plans for the future.

    Make sure to subscribe to the EmbellishPod for more fascinating episodes with industry experts and insiders. Stay updated on all things bourbon and whiskey by following us on Instagram, TikTok, and visiting our website at www.embellishpod.com. And if you're attending the Kentucky Bourbon Festival, be sure to stop by and meet Jacob, Clayton, and the Hemingway team in person!

    https://hemingwaywhiskeys.com/ https://www.instagram.com/hemingwaywhiskeys/ https://www.facebook.com/hemingwaywhiskeys/

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    52 mins
  • Mid-Year Check In: State of the Podcast and Behind the Scenes
    Jul 17 2024

    Hey folks! Welcome to a special mid-year check-in episode of the EmbellishPod. This episode is a bit different and a whole lot shorter, but packed with exciting updates and whiskey adventures.

    Episode Highlights:
    • Whiskey Travels: Join me as I recount my recent whiskey travels, including a visit to the "This Is My Bourbon Weekend" podcast meet-up, a tour of the Jim Beam distillery, and a fantastic meal with tiki drinks.

    • Distillery Tours: Discover the picturesque Augusta Distillery and Old Pogue, and learn why these spots should be on your whiskey travel list.

    • Live Podcast Recording: Get the inside scoop on the live recording of "This Is My Bourbon Podcast" in Lexington, featuring brands like RD1, Pursuit Spirits, Bardstown Bourbon Company, and Dark Arts.

    • Guest Appearance: Hear about my recent guest appearance on the Chill Filtered podcast, where we discussed Michter's Ten Year Bourbon for 2024 and more.

    • Upcoming Content: Find out what to expect in the second half of the year, including tasting notes, informative episodes on rum, tequila, and various international whiskeys, and deep dives into unique barrel types like Amburana and Balsamo.

    Behind-the-Scenes:

    https://chillfiltered.podbean.com/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUT8G6kZ8P2cgnyu8q9rfaQ https://www.instagram.com/chillfilteredpodcast/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A3eJ2IGHD_o

    Stay tuned after the main segment for behind-the-scenes excerpts from my episode with Cole from Chill Filtered. You'll get to hear the raw, uncut footage and enjoy some candid moments.

    Connect with Me:
    • Email: embellishpod@gmail.com

    • Instagram:@embellishpod

    • TikTok:@embellishpod

    • Website: www.embellishpod.com

    Don't forget to hit the subscribe button and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode. Your support means the world to me!

    Thanks for stopping by today. Cheers!

    Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform or watch the video version on YouTube.

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    18 mins
  • The Evolution of Green River
    Jul 9 2024

    Welcome to another exciting episode of the EmbellishPod! In this episode, we sit down with Karen, the National Brand Ambassador for Green River Distillery. Join us as we dive into the rich history of Green River, their latest releases, and the unique experiences they offer.

    Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and Subscribe 00:38 - Meet Karen from Green River Distillery 01:10 - Barbecue and Barrels Event Recap 02:32 - Karen's Journey to Green River 05:06 - From Florida to Kentucky: Karen's Story 07:11 - How Karen Started at Green River 09:27 - Women in Bourbon: Breaking the Stigma 12:33 - Green River's History and Legacy 16:13 - The Only Active Distillery in Owensboro 18:48 - Green River's Product Line and Releases 22:44 - Future Releases and Innovations 28:44 - Distillation Process and Rickhouses 33:48 - Changes and Upgrades at Green River 40:23 - Acquisition by Bardstown Bourbon Company 44:57 - The Unique Blend of History and Innovation

    Connect with Us:

    Email: embellishpod@gmail.com

    Instagram: @embellishpod

    TikTok: @embellishpod

    Website: www.embellishpod.com

    Watch the Video Version: Catch the video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more exciting episodes!

    Follow Green River Distillery:

    Website: https://greenriverwhiskey.com/

    Instagram: @greenriverdistillingco

    About the Podcast: The EmbellishPod is your go-to source for in-depth conversations with industry experts, enthusiasts, and insiders from the world of whiskey and beyond. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or just starting your journey, there's something here for everyone.

    Subscribe and Stay Tuned: If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe to the EmbellishPod on your favorite podcast platform. Stay tuned for more fascinating stories and insights from the world of whiskey!

    #Whiskey #Bourbon #GreenRiverDistillery #EmbellishPod #Podcast #WhiskeyLovers #BourbonHistory #DistilleryTour #CraftSpirits #KentuckyBourbon

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    1 hr
  • From Farm Kid to Master Distiller: A Conversation with Caitlin Bartlemay
    Jul 2 2024

    Join us for an engaging conversation with Caitlin Bartlemay, the newly appointed Master Distiller at Hood River Distillers. In this episode, we dive deep into Caitlin's journey from a farm in Eastern Oregon to becoming a master distiller, her experiences in the distilling industry, and the challenges and triumphs she has faced along the way.

    Topics Covered:
    • Caitlin's initial reaction to becoming a Master Distiller

    • The evolution of her role from head distiller to master distiller

    • The impact of the pandemic on the distilling industry

    • The history and significance of Hood River Distillers

    • Caitlin's favorite and least favorite products to work on

    • The importance of separating personal taste from professional responsibilities

    • The role of sensory perception in distilling

    Key Moments:
    • 00:00:03: Introduction and podcast details

    • 00:01:06: Caitlin's reaction to her new title

    • 00:04:10: Differences between head distiller and master distiller roles

    • 00:15:03: The impact of the pandemic on distilling

    • 00:20:06: History of Hood River Distillers

    • 00:32:14: Caitlin's journey and career path

    • 00:38:14: Balancing personal taste with professional duties

    Connect with Caitlin:
    • Instagram: @the_bartlemay

    • Instagram: @hoodriverdistillers

    • Website: www.hrdspirits.com

    Connect with Us:
    • Email: embellishpod@gmail.com

    • Instagram:@embellishpod

    • TikTok:@embellishpod

    • Website:www.embellishpod.com

    Watch the Video Version:

    Catch the video version of this podcast on our YouTube Channel.

    Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insightful episodes!

    Listen on Your Favorite Platform:

    Find us on all major podcasting platforms. If you can't find us, send an email to embellishpod@gmail.com, and we'll get it sorted!

    Special Thanks:

    A huge thank you to Caitlin Bartlemay for sharing her incredible journey and insights with us. Be sure to check out Hood River Distillers and their amazing range of products.

    #Distilling #MasterDistiller #HoodRiverDistillers #Podcast #EmbellishPod #CaitlinBartlemay #CraftSpirits #DistilleryLife #Whiskey #Brandy #SpiritsIndustry

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    59 mins
  • Family-Owned and Quality-Focused, New Riff Distilling
    Jun 25 2024

    Hey whiskey enthusiasts! In this episode of the EmbellishPod, Molly and Jay from New Riff Distilling join host John to discuss the exciting happenings at New Riff. From Molly's transition from the wine industry to the world of spirits to Jay's insights on the ethos of New Riff, this conversation delves into the unique approach of this family-owned distillery.

    Discover the story behind New Riff's commitment to quality, their innovative approach to single barrel selections, and the significance of their aquifer water source. Learn about their recent release of an eight-year bourbon and the process behind their private barrel selections.

    Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of New Riff's dedication to crafting exceptional whiskey and their vision for the future. Don't miss out on this insightful and engaging discussion with the minds behind one of Kentucky's rising distilleries. Cheers! 🥃

    Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction to EmbellishPod 00:05:30 - Transitioning from Wine to Spirits 00:09:00 - Succession Planning and Family Ownership 00:13:00 - Maintaining Family Ownership 00:17:00 - New Riff's Ethos and Innovation 00:23:00 - Blending Whiskey and Wine Enthusiasts 00:29:00 - Bottled-in-Bond Tradition 00:34:00 - Selling the OKI Brand 00:39:00 - The Aquifer and Whiskey Library 00:44:00 - Private Barrel Selection Process 00:47:00 - New Riff's Eight-Year Bourbon Release

    Links: https://www.newriffdistilling.com/ https://www.instagram.com/newriff/ https://www.facebook.com/NewRiffDistilling/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2daJzmcWHGr6o-FNyKxWjw/videos

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    1 hr and 8 mins