Bourbon Pursuit

Is American Brandy finally ready to step out of bourbon's shadow? Today, we’re joined by Rob Bourdon, the new owner of Copper & Kings, to discuss his vision for revitalizing one of Louisville’s most creative distilleries. I've had the great pleasure of knowing Rob for years because he was part of Tennesee Distilling Group and led a lot of their new fill and barrel contracts. Rob shares his past where was professional hockey player but we quickly pivot to talking about why brandy. When I heard he was buying Copper & Kings I was a bit shocked but Rob puts a great spin on it to see the opportunity in brandy versus the crowded bourbon market. But don't get me wrong, there's still a lot of really great brandy, bourbon, and tequila plays here. So if you're coming to Louisville and need a break from the bourbon, go check out Copper & Kings to see what he's got going on over there and pick one up on your shelf when you need to change things up.
Show Notes:
Challenges and developments in the Tennessee distilling industry

Rob’s vision for Copper and Kings and the significance of American brandy

Discussion of innovative products and unique distillation approaches

Tasting notes featuring their apple brandy and other specialties

Importance of educating consumers about brandy

Plans for community engagement and revitalizing distillery events

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Jason from The Mash & Drum just dropped his first bourbon: Drum Key Spirits “The Debut.” A 123-proof blend of 7 to 9 year Green River barrels. We break down the toasted oak, brown sugar old fashioned vibes, apricot citrus, and strawberry shortcake notes to see if this first release lives up to the hype.DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.
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It's This Week in Bourbon for March 13th 2026. Buffalo Trace Tried doing a new online bottle release system, Uncle Nearest is back in the news with hiding a $20M loan, and Maker’s Mark launches its Wood Finishing Series: The Stewards Release.Show Notes:
Five Southern Glazer’s executives indicted for eight-year bribery and shelf-placement scheme

Farm Credit Mid-America alleges Uncle Nearest funneled $20M loan to hide assets

Sazerac takes control of Garrard County Distilling Co. after purchasing $26M debt

Give 270 receives $11,350 grant from Karis Management Group for community support

National Bourbon Week returns to Bardstown June 14–21 with 10 partner distilleries

Milam & Greene launches Bluebonnet Bourbon benefiting Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

New Riff debuts 2026 Silver Grove series featuring six-year Bourbon and Rye

Kentucky Senator honors Jim Bunning with seventh small batch release aged 8.5 years

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It’s time for another Bourbon Community Roundtable, and we’re handing the reins over to our Patreon supporters to see what’s actually on your minds. We’re pulling back the curtain on our chaotic group chat to debate the "Dusty" vs. Modern era and why some single barrel picks just hit different. Ryan is still leading the charge for high-proof heat, while Blake breaks down why balance is the only thing that keeps a brand relevant in a crowded market. We’re also digging into the finished whiskey craze and what the latest round of distillery consolidations means for your wallet. At the end of the day, we’re looking past the labels to find the soul of the industry. Does a great story still trump a massive marketing budget? We’re breaking down the trends, the hype, and the reality of being an enthusiast in 2026. Pour a glass and join the conversation.
Show Notes:
The art of cocktail creativity: Best unexpected spirit swaps

Are finished barrel whiskeys a fleeting trend?

Insights on modern bottling techniques and the revival of "Dusty" bottles

How distillery consolidation impacts consumer choices

High-proof spirits: Preference shifts and cocktail accessibility

The journey of craft distilleries and the stories behind their creations

The role of storytelling in enriching the bourbon experience

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Old Soul Tintype Series No. 3 honors blues legend Kenny Brown with an 11 year, 103.5 proof bourbon built on a high rye MGP mash bill. We break down the sweet tea and strawberry notes, rich brown sugar caramel, and that bold charred barrel kick that Southern aging brings. Does the heat make the difference? Let’s find out.DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.
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