The Distillery Nation Podcast
Distillery Nation is a podcast about what it takes to start and run a small craft distillery. Host Ilias Mastrogiannis shares his own experience of launching a distillery business, including the struggles, regulations, costs, and everyday realities involved. Alongside practical, real-world advice, he interviews craft distillers about their own journeys and lessons learned. The show is aimed at aspiring and current distillery owners who want an honest look at the industry.
Episodes
From Landscape Architecture to Bourbon: Steven Beam's Unlikely Path to Limestone Branch
Steven Beam, master distiller at Limestone Branch Distillery and Yellowstone Bourbon, joins the show to talk about starting the distillery in 2008 with a self-funded, family-run 150-gallon pot still.
Kris Bohm on Batch vs. Continuous Distillation, the 250-Barrel Crossover & Sourcing with Transparency
When does the romance of the pot still stop making financial sense? For Kris Bohm, who has spent his career designing, installing, and running both batch and continuous systems, the answer comes down to a number and the honesty to act on it. On this episode of Distillery Nation, I sat down with Kris of Distillery Now Consulting to dig into a debate most of us argue with feeling instead of math. Kr
The Whiskey Writer Who Became a Maker: Jay West on Provenance Bourbon, Patience in Production & Blending at Scale
What happens when a whiskey critic stops writing about great whiskey and starts making it? For Jay West, the answer is Provenance Bourbon and the journey in between is one worth hearing. On this episode of Distillery Nation, I sat down with Jay West, the principal whiskey maker behind 1787 Provenance Bourbon and Reverie's, both produced through Middleburg Barrel Company in Virginia. Jay's path t
Inside America's Whiskey Powerhouse: Ian Stirsman (Ross and Squibb/MGP) on Remus Bourbon, Distillery Innovation & Quality at Scale
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, Ian Stirsman, the master distiller of Ross and Squibb (formerly MGP), shared his journey into the whiskey industry and discussed the evolution of the distillery from MGP to its current rebranded identity. Ian's path into whiskey was unexpected. He started as a process engineer at a paper mill before being recruited by MGP Distillery in Lawrence
Inside Four Roses with Master Distiller Brent Elliott: Craft, Innovation and Industry Wisdom
In the latest episode of Distillery Nation Podcast, we sit down with Brent Elliott, the Master Distiller behind one of Kentucky's most beloved bourbon brands—Four Roses. Known for their distinctive high-rye mashbills and exceptional craftsmanship, Four Roses has earned its place as an iconic name in the bourbon world, and Elliott's expertise is a driving force behind that reputation. Elliott takes
The Master Blender's Path: Jesse Parker's Journey Building Doc Swinson's
In our latest episode of The Distillery Nation Podcast, we dive into the remarkable transformation of Doc Swinson's Whiskey with Master Blender Jesse Parker. What makes this story particularly fascinating is how the company evolved from helping other businesses scale to becoming a premium whiskey brand themselves. Jesse's journey into master blending showcases the artistry behind exceptional whisk
From Pears to Single Malt: Caitlin Bartlemay on Clear Creek's Distilling Legacy
In our latest episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we sit down with Caitlin Bartlemay, Master Distiller at Clear Creek Distillery, to explore one of America's most innovative craft distilling stories. From her early steps into the industry to mastering the art of fruit brandy production, Caitlin's journey reflects the passion and precision that have made Clear Creek a standout in American spi
Beyond the Still: Creating a Destination Tasting Room for Your Distillery
In this month's solo episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I'm taking you behind the scenes of my journey creating our flagship tasting room in North Bend. I start with the practical foundation—my 16-page feasibility document that helped determine if this venture could actually succeed. I share how I worked with the economic development department to find the perfect property and leveraged ARC
Heritage in a Glass: How Tomas Nava is Revolutionizing Mexican Whiskey with Heirloom Corn
In the evolving landscape of global spirits, one visionary stands at the forefront of a quiet revolution. Tomas Nava, owner and distiller at Gran Tunal Destilería, is redefining what Mexican whiskey can be through his passionate commitment to heritage and innovation. Nava's journey began behind the bar, where he pioneered his town's first mezcal establishment. This immersion in Mexico's traditiona
Crafting the Perfect Tasting Room: Insights from Bar Owner Chall Gray
In this month's episode of The Distillery Nation Podcast, we dive into the world of tasting rooms and hospitality with acclaimed bar owner and author Chall Gray. Known for his practical guidebook The Cocktail Bar: Notes for an Owner and Operator, Chall brings years of hands-on experience in creating exceptional guest experiences. For distillers looking to expand their brand presence through a tast
Building Million-Dollar Spirits Brands: Inside Top Shelf Ventures with Noah Friedman
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we sit down with Noah Friedman, co-founder of Top Shelf Ventures, to explore the fascinating world of spirits investment and brand building. If you've ever wondered how certain spirits brands rise to prominence while others struggle to gain traction, this conversation offers some compelling answers. Noah shares the story behind Top Shelf Ventures a
Distillery Nation 2024 Year in Review: 11 Game-Changing Conversations in Craft Spirits
The craft spirits industry continues to evolve, and this year's Distillery Nation Podcast interviews have unveiled invaluable wisdom from some of the most innovative minds in distilling. As we wrap up 2024, we're reflecting on the profound insights shared by industry leaders who've helped shape the craft spirits landscape. Industry Innovation & Identity Matt Howell of Chuckanut Bay Distillery emp
Building a Heritage: Jennifer and Justin Stiefiel's Journey from Local Distillers to Industry Innovators
In this month's episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we sit down with Jennifer and Justin Stiefiel, the visionary co-founders of Heritage Distilling Company, who share their remarkable journey from craft distilling dreamers to NASDAQ-listed industry innovators. The Stiefiels take us back to their humble beginnings, revealing how their passion for craft spirits and commitment to excellence lai
Art Meets Spirits: How Seth Watson's Distillery Of Modern Art Blends Creativity and Craft
In this month's episode of Distillery Nation Podcast, we sit down with Seth Watson, the visionary founder behind the Distillery of Modern Art. This conversation reveals how Watson has revolutionized the traditional distillery model by creating a unique space where craft spirits meet artistic expression and hospitality excellence. Watson takes us through his entrepreneurial journey, sharing the cha
From Oyster Shells to Shelves: Distillery 98's Sustainable Vodka Journey
In this latest episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Harrison Holditch, co-founder of Distillery 98, the makers of Half Shell Vodka. Our conversation took a deep dive into their journey of crafting one of the most unique vodkas on the market, all while prioritizing sustainability. Harrison shared the story behind Half Shell Vodka, which is not just a nam
Elevating Your Tasting Room: Insights with A Bar Above's Chris Tunstall
In the latest episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we had the pleasure of chatting with Chris Tunstall, co-founder of A Bar Above! Chris has been a driving force in the world of cocktails and bar education, with a mission to elevate the bar experience for both professionals and enthusiasts alike. In this episode, Chris shares his deep knowledge and expertise on a range of topics that are inva
Navigating the Headwinds: Insights from Mark Beres on the Craft Spirits Landscape (Part 2)
We're excited to bring you the second part of our insightful series with Mark Beres, co-founder and CEO of Flying Leap Vineyards and Distillery, on the Distillery Nation Podcast. After exploring the significant headwinds in the craft spirits space in part one, we now shift our focus to solutions. In this episode, Mark and I dive into practical strategies and actionable advice to tackle the challen
Navigating the Headwinds: Insights from Mark Beres on the Craft Spirits Landscape (Part 1)
We are thrilled to announce a special two-part episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast featuring Mark Beres, the President and CEO of Flying Leap Vineyards and Distillery. In part one of our discussion, Mark and I explore the significant challenges distillery owners face today. With production costs soaring, access to capital becoming increasingly restricted, rapid market growth presenting both o
Crafting Success: Lessons from James Bay Distillers' Co-Founder
In the latest episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we had the pleasure of chatting with Ernie Troth, co-founder and distiller at James Bay Distillers. Based in the Pacific Northwest, James Bay Distillers is celebrated for its exceptional craft whiskey, gin, and Scotch. Ernie provides an engaging and insightful look into the world of importing Scotch into the United States. He shares the uniqu
Mastering Distillery Equipment: Insights with Kris Bohm of Distillery Now Consulting
In our latest episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we dive deep into the world of distillery equipment with none other than Kris Bohm, the owner of Distillery Now Consulting. Kris brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise, making this episode a must-listen for anyone in the distilling industry. In this episode, Kris shares invaluable insights on various aspects of distillery operations. We k
Mastering Distillery Equipment: Insights with Kris Bohm of Distillery Now Consulting
In our latest episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we dive deep into the world of distillery equipment with none other than Kris Bohm, the owner of Distillery Now Consulting. Kris brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise, making this episode a must-listen for anyone in the distilling industry. In this episode, Kris shares invaluable insights on various aspects of distillery operations. We k
No Shortcuts: Exploring Heirloom Grains with Al Laws
Step into the world of whiskey craftsmanship with our latest episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, where we had the privilege of chatting with Al Laws, the Founder and President of Laws Whiskey House. Our conversation delved deep into Al's journey into the art of distilling, offering listeners a firsthand glimpse into the passion and dedication that drive one of the industry's most respected f
Crafting Creativity: Inside 3BR Distillery's Innovative Spirits
This month on Distillery Nation, we had the privilege of delving into the world of craft distilling with Aleks Zhdanov, the mastermind behind 3BR Distillery nestled in the heart of New Jersey. Our conversation was a spirited exploration of innovation, collaboration, and passion for crafting exceptional spirits. At 3BR Distillery, creativity knows no bounds. Aleks shared insights into their signatu
Bonus Episode: Puddles, Pond, Lakes, Oceans: how to master the basics: From Distilling to Selling Bottles
A special two-part bonus episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast of a recent interview I did with Chris Maffeo of the Maffeo Drinks Podcasts. In Episode 050 I had the pleasure of chatting with Ilias Mastrogiannis. He is the founder of the Distillery Nation Podcast and Mastrogiannis Winery and Distillery, based in Washington State, inspired by Greek tradition. I hope you will enjoy our chat. Time
Adapting to Uncertainty: How Quartz Mountain Distillers Thrived
In this months episode I have the pleasure of sharing the story of Quartz Mountain Distillers, a family-owned venture led by Darin and Randy Kyle, exemplifies this truth. Amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, this father-son duo turned adversity into opportunity, leveraging their skills to navigate the uncertain landscape of entrepreneurship. When the pandemic struck, disrupting industri
Potatoes, Wheat, and Craft Alchemy with Matt Howell of Chuckanut Bay Distillery
Dive into the world of distillation with our latest episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, where I had the pleasure of chatting with the insightful Matt Howell, the mastermind behind Chuckanut Bay Distillery. In this captivating episode, we explored Matt's intriguing journey into the distilling realm, a path paved from his roots as a wine salesperson. Discover how this unique background shaped
Distillery Nation's Top Insights from 2023: A Year in Review
A very special podcast to wrap up the end of the year. For the third year I decided to go back, listen and re-listen to all the great interviews that happened in the last year and pick some of my favorite pieces and add commentary on why that piece was important and how in most cases it helped with the direction for my business. 1. Sean from Fox and Seeker - Navigating Resources for Small Distille
Sipping Success: Exploring Artisanal Spirits with Nicholas Palazzi
In the latest episode of The Distillery Nation Podcast, featuring none other than Nicholas Palazzi, the mastermind behind Brooklyn-based PM Spirits. As the owner, importer, and wholesaler of some of the most exquisite spirits in the market, Palazzi takes us on a journey through the nuances of his craft in this captivating episode. Ever wondered how someone finds their way into the spirited realm?
Elevating Your Beverage Alcohol Brand with Matt McGinnis of Big Thirst
Welcome back, fellow spirits enthusiasts, to another captivating episode of Distillery Nation Podcast! In the latest of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we sit down with Matt McGinnis, the President and Founder of Big Thirst Marketing, a full-service company specializing in the beverage alcohol industry. In this episode, we delve into the fascinating journey of a marketing expert who transitioned fr
Distilling Excellence Inside Purity Distillery with Mathias Tonnesson
Welcome back, fellow spirits enthusiasts, to another captivating episode of Distillery Nation Podcast! In the latest captivating episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we were treated to an enlightening conversation with Mathias Tonnesson, one the brilliant minds behind Purity Vodka, a renowned vodka and gin distillery hailing from the picturesque landscapes of Sweden. The interview delved deep
Exploring New Zealand's Corn-Based Spirits with Tom Finn of Herrick Creek Distillery
Welcome back, fellow spirits enthusiasts, to another captivating episode of Distillery Nation Podcast! In this week's episode, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with the mastermind behind Herrick Creek Distillery all the way from the stunning landscapes of New Zealand, Tom Finn. Tom Finn, the founder and distiller, took us on an intriguing journey through his deep-rooted passion for corn
Revolutionizing the Craft Beverage Market: A Conversation with Ohanafy CEO, Ian Padrick
Welcome back to another exciting episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast! In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Ian Padrick, the CEO of Ohanafy, a technology-based company that specializes in serving the craft beverage market. Ian shared with us the fascinating story of how Ohanafy began its journey. It all started with a consulting job for a brewery, where they identified a need f
Exploring the Art of High-Altitude Distillation with Lee Wood of Wood's High Mountain Distillery
Welcome back to another exciting episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast! In today's episode, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Lee Wood, the co-founder and owner of Wood's High Mountain Distillery. Our conversation took us on a captivating journey through their beginnings in the distilling industry, the intricacies of whiskey production, and the unique challenges of high-altitude distilla
Unveiling Tennessee High Malt: Inside Chattanooga Whiskey with Grant McCracken
Welcome to another captivating episode of Distillery Nation! In this interview, we had the pleasure of chatting with Grant McCracken, the Chief Product Officer of Chattanooga Whiskey. Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of Chattanooga Whiskey, exploring Grant's journey, their signature style, and their innovative approach to whiskey-making. Grant McCracken's passion for whiskey led to th
Crafting Unique Australian Whisky with Dave Vitale, Founder of Starward Whisky
Welcome to another episode of Distillery Nation, the podcast where we explore the world of craft distilling and speak to the people behind the spirits. Today, we had the pleasure talking with Dave Vitale, founder of Starward Whisky, an Australian distillery that specializes in producing unique, high-quality whisky. In this episode, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Dave and discussing his j
From Dreams to Success, the Inspiring Story of Cotswolds Distillery with Dan Szor
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of talking with Daniel Szor. Dan is founder and owner of Cotswolds Distillery, located in Cotswolds England and best known for their English Single Malt and Gin. After years of meticulous planning, Cotswolds Distillery was officially founded in 2014. With a focus on locally sourced ingredients and traditional distilling
Sonat Birnecker Hart on Giving Up Tenure For a New Life As a Distiller
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of talking with Sonat Birnecker Hart. Sonat is the President of Koval Distillery. A craft distillery located in Chicago and best known for the line of Rye whiskeys. We chatted about her journey into the spirits industry, from changing the laws in Chicago to allow for craft distilling to lessons in branding. Dr. Sonat B
Grain to Glass Vodka Production with Sean Anger of Fox and Seeker
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of talking with Sean Anger. Sean is the co-founder and distiller behind Fox & Seeker, a craft distillery specializing in Vodka and Gin from Houston Texas. And what a great interview, I've known Sean for a few years and have been following their journey since the beginning. We chatted about best practices when dealing w
Favorite Podcast Moments of 2022
A very special podcast to wrap up the end of the year. For the second year I decided to go back, listen and re-listen to all the great interviews that happened in the last year and pick some of my favorite pieces and add commentary on why that piece was important and how in most cases it helped with the direction for my business. From best accounting principles to the importance of the email list,
Build Your Drinks Brand from the Bottom Up with Expert Chris Maffeo
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of talking with Chris Maffeo. Chris is a drinks industry adviser and founder of Maffeo Drinks. Chris has vast experience and knowledge on how to build brands from the bottom up and in this episode, we did just that. Chris went deep into sales, building demand, how to target and filter on-premise accounts and how importa
Diversifying Your Distillery's Income Streams with Jeff Wuslich of Cardinal Spirits.
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of talking with Jeff Wuslich. Jeff is the co-founder of Cardinal Spirits from Bloomington Indiana, a craft distillery known best for its line of vodkas, gin, and whiskey! We chatted about Jeff's origin story and how he went about changing the laws in Indiana to support craft distilling. How Cardinal Spirits focus on div
How Jackie Summers Turned Adversity into Award-Winning Sorel Liqueur
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of talking with Jackie Summers. Jackie is a James Beard Finalist, speaker, and creator of the award-winning Sorel Liqueur! And what an interview, we talked about the multiple roadblocks Jackie had to overcome, including a terminal prognosis, a hurricane, and multiple NOs. We also talked about his favorite books, advice
Why You Should Not Ignore How Word Of Mouth Drives Business, Focusing On Product Over Process.
In this special episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, Ilias is sitting down and unpacking some of the lessons learned over the last seven years running the podcast and being a distiller and business owner. From how word of mouth drives business, focusing on product over process, the value of networking and why you should focus on your email list.
DNP 099: Alex Myers - Big Gin
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of talking with Alex Myers. Alex is the distiller behind Big Gin, and what a better way for episode 99 of the podcast than to go back and check on Big Gin, which was our very first distillery podcast. And it was during those early visits at the original Big Gin (Captive Spirits) distillery, that gave me enough confidence
DNP 098: Maria Pearman
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of talking with Maria Pearman. Maria is a CPA with over 15 years of deep operational accounting experience. She recently published Distillery Finance, so this was a great opportunity to have her talk about some of the foundational concepts, like good debt, bad debt, line of credits, most common finance mistakes distiller
DNP 097: Becky and Scott Harris - Catoctin Creek Distilling
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of talking with Becky and Scott Harris. Becky and Scott are owners and distillers behind Catoctin Creek, a craft Rye whiskey distillery located in Purcellville Virginia, and what an episode. Full of practical advice, from their humble beginning to why they decided to focus on Rye whiskey, work ethic, distribution, scalin
DNP 096: Amy and Steve Bohner - Alchemy Distillery
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of talking with Amy and Steve Bohner. Amy and Steve are the owners and distillers behind Alchemy Distillery a craft distillery located in Arcata California and best known for the grain-to-glass whiskey and gin. We chatted about their trip across the US and how it helped them kickstart their distillery, how being a contr
DNP 095: Renee Bemis - Driftless Glen
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure talking with Renee Bemis. Renee is the co-founder of Driftless Glen, a craft distillery located in Baraboo Wisconsin and producers of grain-to-glass whiskey, vodka and gin! A great interview with Renee as we chatted about how they got started in the industry, dealing with wastewater, expansions and why building the dist
DNP 094: Ben Salisbury
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure talking with Ben Salisbury. Ben is the founder and president of Salisbury Creative Group. With over 30 years of experience in the beverage industry, including being the former VP of National Accounts for Constellations Brands in the US. We chatted about the importance of an email list, and why they need to be in your pr
DNP 093: Robin Thieme
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of having Robin Thieme. Robin is the CEO and founder of KBS CFO, a company that provides strategic guidance and system-based solutions for entrepreneurs including distilleries! We chatted about Robin's history and journey into accounting, approaching a financial institution for working capital, forecasting, margins, tip
DNP 092: Year In Review
A very special podcast to wrap up the end of the year. This time I decided to go back, listen and re-listen to all the great interviews that happened in the last year and pick some of my favorite pieces and add commentary on why that piece was important and how in most cases it helped with the direction for my business. From comparisons, and finding what you love to do, to distribution and DTC to
DNP 091: Rogue Spirits and Ales - Jake Holshue
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of having Jake Holshue. Jake is the head distiller behind Rogue Ales & Spirits located in Newport Oregon and best known for their line of whiskeys. Jake is on the board of directors of the American Craft Spirits Association (ASCA), a distiller and consultant since 2012. A full-packed interview that covered a lot of groun
DNP 90: Coastal Spirits Distilling - Brad Plummer
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute talking with Brad Plummer. Brad is the founder and distillery behind Coastal Spirits Distilling a craft distillery located in San Carlos, CA. Brad is the former editor-in-chief for Distiller Magazine, in addition to running his distillery, so this unique position allowed him to talk to a lot of distillers about what works throug
DNP 089: Melkon Khosrovian (RTDs)
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of welcoming back Melkon Khosrovian. Melkon is the co-founder behind Greenbar Distillery, located in Los Angeles and we originally talked back in episode 56. But this time we brought Melkon back on to talk about RTDs. Ready to drink (RTDs) cocktails are seeing high growth opportunities and Greenbar has invested heavily
DNP 088: Maggie Campbell
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute talking with Maggie Campbell. Maggie is known for her work in rum, producing some of the best American rum, we talked about her early start into the industry, to working for Germain-Robin, and her love for all spirits but specifically rum. Maggie as I mentioned on the podcast has this unique super-power of taking something real
DNP 087: Marianne Eaves
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute talking with Marianne Eaves. Marianne is Kentucky's first female Master Distiller. We talked about her start in the business, including working for Brown-Forman, and then Castle and Key. How does she approach a blending session, we talked about transparency in the bottle, and how helping others is super important, her advice for
DNP 086: Ben Williams - Highway Vodka
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of having back on the podcast Ben Williams. Ben is the co-founder of Highway Vodka, located in Houston Texas. We talked about his start into the business, dealing with the TTB on approvals, his best advice on preparation, building a quality product from scratch favorite books and so much more!
DNP 085: Direct to Consumer - Part 2 (with Mark Beres)
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of having back on the podcast Mark Beres. Mark is the CEO and co-founder of Flying Leap Distillery and Winery located in Elgin Arizona. Our first talk with Mark was back in episode 43, so you can go back and listen to his story on how he got into this business, but in this episode, we went a different direction. What sta
DNP 084: Markus Kypreos - Blackland Distillery
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of talking with Markus Kypreos. Markus not only a fellow Greek, but also the founder of Blackland Distillery, located in Fort Worth Texas, and specializing in Bourbon, Rye, Gin and Vodka, a great interview on how he went from culinary school to distilling, why he choose to open a distillery, their decision on going with
DNP 083: Lance Winters - St. George Spirits
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of talking with Lance Winters. Lance is the distillery and creative force behind St. George Spirits. You might know this distillery, one of the first craft distilleries in the US, dating back to 1982. Lance started with St. George in 1996, and since then has helped elevate St. George into a world-class distillery with a
DNP 082: Direct to Consumer - Part 1
A solo episode where I do a deep dive into my personal Direct to Consumer solution for shipping spirits. Comparing other solutions and giving you my recommendations and what I use for my distillery.
DNP 081: Thomas and Andrew Soltau - Sugarfield Spirits
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of talking with Thomas and Andrew Soltau. Thomas and Andrew are owners of Sugarfields Spirits, a craft distillery located in Gonzales Louisiana. Best known for their Rum, Bourbon, Gin, and Liqueurs. We chatted about their story on how they got started into the spirits industry, using seasonal releases to drive both on-p
DNP 080: Andy Garrison - Stone Barn Brandyworks
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we had the absolute pleasure of talking with Andy Garrison. Andy is the distiller behind Stone Barn Brandyworks, a craft distillery located in Portland Oregon where they specialize in Brandy and Whiskey! I met Andy two years ago when he was writing an article on Grappa production! And instantly I knew his breadth of knowledge on the brandy and dis
DNP 079: Lloyd Reed - Black Mountain Botanicals
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of talking with Lloyd Reed. Lloyd is the co-owner and distillery behind Black Mountain Botanicals, a craft gin distillery located in the UK. Lloyd a mechanical engineer turned distiller talks about his story starting a distillery in the UK, favorite books, worst distillery moment, and why Gin among many things!
DNP 078: Tony Abou-Ganim
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of talking with Tony Abou-Ganim. Tony is widely regarded as one of the pioneering and leading bar professionals in the world, and in this episode, we talked about his start into the booze business, his philanthropic endeavor with the Helen David Relief Fund, his advice for bartender and distillers, and how hospitality is
DNP 077: Austin Adamson & Eric Strom - Ballmer Peak Distillery
Austin and Eric are co-founders of Ballmer Peak Distillery, located in Lakewood, Colorado and they specialize in Rum, Gin, and Whiskey. We chatted about their origin story, using the same base material for your production and how it can benefit your process, especially for a smaller space. Being smart about your pricing strategies, listening to your customers, giving back, favorite books and so m
DNP 076: Butter & Bacon
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we had the absolute pleasure of talking with Butter & Bacon, being their Instagram handle. They are a husband-and-wife team that have a very cool background, have been long-time supporters and friends and aside from their main jobs, they run Butter & Bacon. A venture that focuses on using distilled spirits while home cooking! And now more than e
DNP 075: Scott Bolin - Next Century Spirits
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we had the absolute pleasure of talking with Scott Bolin. Scott is the co-founder & CEO of Next Century Spirits. A technology-based spirits company that focuses on private labels and craft producers. Talked about his background, how he went from the bio-material space to spirits business, controls around finishing and filtration, his advice on tec
DNP 074: Arthur Shapiro - Booze Business
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we had the absolute pleasure of talking with Arthur Shapiro . Arthur started his career with Seagram Spirits and Wine Company in 1986 as VP Marketing Research. What followed was a number of different marketing assignments in the US and globally including VP New Products, SVP Marketing Asia/Pacific/Global Duty-Free, Global Head of Marketing Service
DNP 073: Michael Weiss - Spirit Hub
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we had the absolute pleasure of talking with Michael Weiss. Michael is the CEO and founder of Spirit Hub. Spirit Hub is an e-commerce platform specifically geared towards independent craft spirits producers, allowing them to sell their spirits directly to consumers! And now more than even platforms like Spirit Hub are much needed, we chatted ab
DNP 072: Ivar Aass - Spirit Lab Distilling
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we had the absolute pleasure of talking with Ivar Aass. Ivar and the owner and distillery behind Spirit Lab Distilling, specializing in American Single Malt Whiskey. A great story that I related a lot, we chatted about brandy production, whiskey production, favorite book, and why running a small craft distillery can be very beneficial.. Ivar and t
DNP 071: What's Your Cash Cow?
The idea that has been on my mind for a few months, and it really came to be from a visit at a fairly large distillery. While I was there we talk about the usual, stills, production, process, methods but really what stood out was the concept of the cash cow? For example, Jack Daniel's is Brown-Forman's cash cow. It's a single product that is generating so much revenue that no only its own brand,
DNP 070: Robert Likarish - Ironroot Republic Distillery
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we had the absolute pleasure of talking with Robert Likarish. Robert is the co-founder of IronRoot Republic distillery located in Denison Texas and best known for the line of whiskeys! And what a great interview, talked about the distillery origin story, brandy production, corn selection and of course bourbon, whiskey, and so much more!
DNP 069: Erik Owens - ADI
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we had the absolute pleasure of talking with Erik Owens. Erik is the Vice President of American Distilling Institute or ADI for short, and in this episode, we chatted about Erik's path into the distilling, his dad Bill, ADI's beginning, spirit competitions, the current upcoming virtual ADI conference and so much more!
DNP 068: Steven Guido - Aeva Labs
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we had the absolute pleasure of talking with Steven Guido. Steven is the CEO and Co-Founder of Aeva labs a platform for developing and scaling spirits. Steven talked about his start into the spirits business, what Aeva labs is trying to accomplish, he gave us a little behind the scenes of their process, and their focus on flavor and so much more!
DNP 067: Murphy Quint - Cedar Ridge Distillery
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we had the absolute pleasure talking with Murphy Quint of Cedar Ridge Distillery located in Swisher, IA. Murphy is the Director of Operations for Cedar Ridge, and we chatted about his history and how he got into the spirits business, their aha-moment for their Bourbon. We chatted about American Single Malt Whiskey and the advantage it currently h
DNP 066: Suzanne Henrickson - The Crafty Cask
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we had the absolute pleasure talking with Suzanne Henrickson, founder of the Crafty Cask. Suzanne by trade is a market researcher and storyteller and over the last few years, she has been focusing on telling the stories behind some of your favorite craft producers. We chatted about her previous career and how that lead to the current business, h
DNP 065: Cheryl Durzy - LibDib
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we had the absolute pleasure of talking with Cheryl Durzy. Cheryl is the CEO behind Liberation Distribution or LibDid. And in this episode, we chatted about how she got started in the beverage industry, talked about strategies and how distilleries should be looking at distribution, their partnership with RNDC, looked into the future, and where we
DNP 064: Chris Swonger - COVID-19 (Special Episode)
In this special episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I sat down and chat with Chris Swonger the CEO and President of DISCUS and Responsiblity.org. We chatted about how distilleries are jumping in and assisting with the production of hand sanitizer, the ongoing discussions with the FDA, their new portal to help distillers navigate production of hand sanitizer, their new podcast and so much m
DNP 063: Ryan Christiansen - Caledonia Spirits
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we had the absolute pleasure of talking with Ryan Christiansen. Ryan is the President and Head Distillery behind Caledonia Spirits located in Vermont and best known for their Barr Hill Gin and Vodka. And what an episode, we chatted about Ryan's beginnings, how bees and honey became a core of what they do, favorite books, expansion headaches, SKU se
