Season 7, Episode 14: Ashley Barnes, Master Blender

Ashley Barnes is back for her fourth appearance on The Bourbon Life Podcast, and as always, she brings plenty of insight, honesty, and exceptional whiskey along for the ride. Matt and Mark catch up with Ashley to discuss her recent departure from The Spirits Group and her exciting new chapter as an independent blending consultant, while continuing her role as Master Blender for The Blending House. Ashley shares what this transition means for her career, the opportunities it creates, and why she's more excited than ever about the future of whiskey. The conversation then turns to one of the most anticipated bourbon releases of the year—Jacob Spears Bourbon. Named in honor of one of Kentucky's earliest distillers, the whiskey was distilled by Bourbon Hall of Famer Jim Rutledge and blended by Ashley. Matt and Mark even have the unique opportunity to taste and weigh in on two different small batch blend variations before discussing the final direction of the brand, along with a standout single barrel expression. Ashley also previews the upcoming Grand Slam Bourbon Fest, taking place August 27 at League Stadium in Huntingburg, Indiana, where bourbon and baseball come together to celebrate America's 250th Anniversary with an unforgettable day of great whiskey, great history, and great fun. And, of course, no episode of The Bourbon Life would be complete without a lineup of incredible pours. This week, the crew tastes and reviews: 2015 Four Roses Small Batch Limited Edition (a release Ashley helped blend alongside Jim Rutledge during their time at Four Roses) Two Jacob Spears Bourbon Small Batch blend variations Jacob Spears Bourbon Single Barrel Two Worlds Whiskey Alliance Whether you're interested in the art of blending, the story behind an exciting new bourbon brand, or simply enjoy hearing from one of the industry's most respected blenders, this is an episode you won't want to miss. This episode is sponsored by District 7 Social and The Kitchen Table at the James B. Beam Distilling Co.

This week on The Whiskey Trip, Big Chief welcomes Hemal Patel and Joe Godfrey of Patel Bourbon for a conversation about friendship, craftsmanship, and the journey of building a premium whiskey brand. Patel Bourbon was founded on the idea that great whiskey should be more than just something you drink. It should be something that brings people together, sparks conversation, and creates lasting memories.   We kicked off the first half with Patel's Bespoke Straight Wheat Whiskey, an 8 year, 3 month old single barrel bottled at 115 proof. Soft wheat sweetness, honey, and light oak with a smooth, warming finish. From there, we moved into their Kentucky style Rye, a 9 year, 3 month old cask strength whiskey that beautifully balances sweetness and spice. Bright citrus, baking spice, and a peppery kick with a touch of caramel. Along the way, Hemal and Joe shared the story behind Patel Bourbon, the meaning of their Epicurean philosophy, and the passion that drives every barrel they select.   The second half opened with their Bespoke Straight Bourbon, a nearly 9 year old cask strength expression packed with rich caramel, oak, and baking spice notes. Deep caramel, toasted oak, and vanilla with a bold, lingering finish. We wrapped up the episode with Patel's impressive 9 year, 2 month old Straight Rye bottled at 121 proof, a bold and flavorful whiskey that showcases everything rye lovers are looking for in a premium single barrel. Dark spice, mint, and charred oak with a long, spicy finish.   Beyond the whiskey, this episode explores entrepreneurship, barrel selection, and what it takes to build a brand in today's whiskey landscape. Hemal and Joe discuss the importance of relationships, staying true to your vision, and creating a company that stands for something bigger than the bottle.   One of the things that makes Patel Bourbon unique is its commitment to giving back. Through its support of the David Downie Foundation, the company helps families facing the financial burdens that often accompany a cancer diagnosis. It is a reminder that success is not just measured by what you build, but by how many lives you impact along the way.   And because no ride is complete without a little extra excitement, one lucky listener will win the same Patel Bourbon Straight Rye featured on the show, along with a Patel Bourbon T shirt and a The Whiskey Trip rocks glass.   Pour a glass, settle in, and Take the Ride.  

In this episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast, Matt and Mark welcome back fan-favorite guest David Mandell, Co-Founder and CEO of Whiskey House of Kentucky, for his fourth appearance on the show. Joining him for the first time is Ryan Poe, Distillery Senior Manager and Head of Innovation at Whiskey House of Kentucky, making not only his Bourbon Life debut, but his very first podcast appearance. The conversation begins with Ryan sharing his background and the journey that ultimately led him to Whiskey House, where innovation isn't just a buzzword - it's a core part of the company's DNA. David and Ryan discuss how Whiskey House's unique approach to contract distilling and product development allows them to tackle projects that many distilleries simply can't, while also navigating the challenges facing today's whiskey market. The discussion then turns to one of the most exciting and ambitious spirits projects to hit the market in recent years: SHANG Whiskey. David and Ryan take listeners behind the scenes of this groundbreaking collaboration between Maritime Brands, True Essence Foods, Guìzhōu Guótái Shùzhì Liquor Group, Whiskey House, and The Blending House. They explore the rich history of Jiang Xiang Baijiu in China, the remarkably complex process used to produce it, and how that centuries-old tradition became the foundation for an entirely new whiskey category. Listeners will also get an inside look at the creation of SHANG East + West, a first-of-its-kind whiskey that blends American red sorghum whiskey developed by Whiskey House with Jiang Xiang Baijiu, creating a truly unique expression that bridges Eastern and Western distilling traditions. And, of course, no episode of The Bourbon Life would be complete without a tasting. Matt, Mark, David, and Ryan sip and review three exceptional pours, including E.H. Taylor Single Barrel in honor of Ryan's time at Buffalo Trace, along with the brand-new SHANG Dan Yu Whiskey and SHANG East + West Whiskey. Whether you're fascinated by innovation, curious about the future of whiskey, or simply looking to learn about one of the most unique spirits projects ever brought to market, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at creativity, collaboration, and category creation in the whiskey world. This Episode is sponsored by District 7 Social and The Kitchen Table at the James B. Beam Distilling Co.

This week on The Whiskey Trip, Big Chief sits down with Cody Stys from The Vaults at The Stanley Hotel, a one-of-a-kind whiskey destination located beneath one of Colorado's most famous historic hotels.   The conversation begins with the rich history of the Stanley Hotel, which opened in 1909 and has become a landmark in the Rocky Mountains. The hotel is perhaps best known for inspiring Stephen King's novel The Shining. During a stay at the hotel in the 1970s, King found himself nearly alone in the massive property as it prepared to close for the season. The experience sparked the imagination that would lead to one of the most iconic horror stories ever written. While Stanley Kubrick's film adaptation wasn't filmed at the hotel, the Stanley remains forever connected to The Shining and attracts visitors from around the world who want to experience a piece of literary and cinematic history.   Of course, this is The Whiskey Trip, so the guys quickly get down to business by pouring four outstanding single barrels selected by Cody.   On the first half of the show, Big Chief and Cody sip on a Root Shoot Distillery Single Barrel and a The Heart Distillery Single Barrel, discussing the unique character of Colorado whiskey and the craftsmanship behind these exceptional picks.   The second half features a Laws Four Grain Single Barrel and a Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Rye, delivering bold flavors, rich complexity, and plenty of conversation about what makes a great barrel selection stand out from the rest.   Throughout the episode, Cody shares stories from The Vaults, insights into the barrel-picking process, and how the Stanley Hotel's history and atmosphere create an unforgettable experience for whiskey lovers. From historic hallways and ghost stories to world-class pours and good company, this episode captures everything that makes whiskey culture so special.   Pour yourself something good, settle in, and enjoy the ride.   Take the Ride with Big Chief.

In this episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast, Matt and Mark sit down with Reece Sims, Founder of Flavor Camp and a judge for the prestigious International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC), for a fascinating conversation about flavor, spirits evaluation, and one of the most respected competitions in the world of whiskey. The conversation begins with Reece sharing her unique journey into the world of sensory analysis, education, and spirits, and how that path ultimately led her to create Flavor Camp, an innovative program designed to help people better understand flavor and develop their tasting skills. She also discusses how her passion for sensory evaluation opened the door to becoming an IWSC judge and what it means to be selected for such an esteemed role. Across three segments, Reece pulls back the curtain on the IWSC, explaining its global reputation, the rigorous judging process, and what a typical day looks like for judges tasked with evaluating some of the finest spirits from around the world. She also shares her personal approach to judging, how she strives for objectivity, and what separates truly exceptional spirits from the rest of the field. Of course, no Bourbon Life episode would be complete without a tasting. In a fun and entertaining twist, Matt and Mark put Reece's palate to the test with a blind tasting featuring three whiskies that recently earned the coveted Gold Outstanding designation at the IWSC North American Spirits Competition held in Kentucky. Did one of the competition's own judges identify the award-winning pours? You'll have to tune in to find out. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey enthusiast, an aspiring taster, or simply curious about how the world's best spirits are judged, this episode offers an engaging behind-the-scenes look at the art and science of tasting. This Episode is sponsored by District 7 and The Kitchen Table at the James B. Beam Distilling Co.

This week on The Whiskey Trip Podcast, Big Chief rides into Golden, Colorado, to sit down with Jason Pelle, Head Distiller at State 38 Distilling. As a fellow veteran and former Navy Diver, Jason brings a story built on service, sacrifice, and a relentless pursuit of excellence—qualities that now find their way into every bottle that leaves the distillery.   On the first half of the show, the guys raise a glass of State 38 Straight Wheat Whiskey, where notes of honey, vanilla, and fresh baked bread create an inviting start to the ride. They then move to State 38 Bourbon Whiskey, delivering rich layers of caramel, toffee, baking spices, and oak that showcase the heart of Colorado craft whiskey.   On the second half, the adventure continues with State 38 Straight Rye Whiskey, packed with black pepper, mint, and cinnamon spice. Then comes the moment listeners won't want to miss as Big Chief steps out onto the ledge and dives into State 38 Peat Smoked Whisky. What begins with campfire smoke unfolds into rich malt, dark chocolate, roasted nuts, and a newfound appreciation for a style of whiskey that often divides drinkers.   Throughout the conversation, Jason shares his passion for the craft, the lessons learned through military service, and the pride that comes from creating spirits that bring people together around a shared story and a good pour.   This episode is a reminder that great whiskey is more than grain and barrels—it's about the people behind it, the journeys they've traveled, and the legacy they leave in every glass.   Pour yourself a dram, settle in, and Take the Ride.

This week on The Whiskey Trip Podcast, Big Chief returns to Arvada, Colorado, for his third visit with Patrick Miller, founder and distiller of Talnua Distillery and a pioneer of American Single Pot Still Whiskey.   Patrick shares updates on Talnua's continued growth and his mission to bring this historic Irish whiskey style into the American whiskey landscape while embracing Colorado craftsmanship and innovation.   On the first half of the show, the guys sip Talnua's Bourbon Cask & Stave Series Bottled-in-Bond American Single Pot Still Whiskey, aged a minimum of four years in ex-bourbon casks with charred American white oak staves, followed by their American White Oak Cask Bottled-in-Bond expression, aged four years in first-fill charred American white oak casks. Both are bottled at 100 proof and showcase the rich, grain-forward character that defines Talnua.   On the second half, they pour the Sherry Cask Bottled-in-Bond American Single Pot Still Whiskey before diving into the 2026 Olde Saint's Keep Special Release, a unique collaboration finished in six different casks sourced from fellow Colorado distilleries. The show closes with Talnua's newest Single Barrel selection for Bluegrass Lounge and Hazel's Beverage World, bottled at a robust 116.7 proof and aged in a former Elijah Craig barrel.   From tradition to innovation, this episode highlights why Talnua remains one of the most unique and respected craft distilleries in America.   Pour a glass and Take the Ride with Big Chief. Cheers.

This week on The Whiskey Trip Podcast, Big Chief heads to Lyons, Colorado — the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park — to sit down with Craig Engelhorn from Spirit Hound Distillers for a ride through mountain whiskey culture and handcrafted American Single Malt.   With a deep brewing background, Craig shares how his passion for grain and fermentation shaped Spirit Hound's whiskey program, along with the story behind the incredible still he hand crafted himself.   On the first half, the guys sip Spirit Hound's American Single Malt with a touch of peated malt before diving into their Bottled in Bond Palo Cortado Finished American Single Malt loaded with dark fruit, roasted nuts, and an unforgettable horehound candy finish.   The second half climbs even higher with the Colorado Honey Finished American Single Malt, where the honey enhances the whiskey without overpowering it. They finish the ride with a monster rye whiskey made from 70% rye and 30% malted barley bottled at a staggering 155.6 proof. Big, bold, spicy, and unapologetic just like the Rocky Mountains it calls home.   Take the Ride with Big Chief.   Cheers. 

In this episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast, Matt & Mark welcome special guest Nikki King, Owner of Tannins & Proof Hospitality Consulting, for a fun, flavorful, and hospitality-driven conversation that blends great bourbon with great cocktails and even better stories. Across three lively segments, Nikki shares her journey in the hospitality world, her passion for creating memorable guest experiences, and her thoughts on the ever-evolving bourbon and cocktail scene. The conversation dives into everything from cocktail creativity and hospitality trends to bourbon culture, entertaining at home, and what it really takes to create unforgettable experiences around great pours. Of course, no visit from Nikki would be complete without incredible drinks. During the episode, they enjoy a delicious Strawberry Mint Julep crafted by Nikki especially for the show, taste and review the new Very Olde St. Nick Immaculata from Preservation Distillery, and wrap things up with another Nikki creation — a fantastic plum-infused Cocchi di Torino Vermouth concoction that had everyone reaching for another sip. As always, the conversation is relaxed, entertaining, and full of laughs, honest pours, and plenty of bourbon passion. Whether you're a cocktail enthusiast, bourbon lover, or someone who simply appreciates great hospitality, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Pour yourself something tasty, settle in, and enjoy this flavorful episode with Nikki King. This Episode is sponsored by District 7 and The Kitchen Table at the James B. Beam Distilling Co.

This week on The Whiskey Trip Podcast, Big Chief rides into the shadow of Pikes Peak to sit down with Paul Dunning from 13th Century Whiskey in beautiful Colorado Springs.   Paul has built something truly unique in the whiskey world — a brand where every bottle is part of the experience. Each handcrafted release features a blown glass figure inside, from copper stills and aging barrels to incredible wildlife designs, making these bottles true shelf pieces and instant conversation starters.   Crafted at the base of Pikes Peak, 13th Century Whiskey ages its spirits in small 30-gallon barrels, creating bold cask-strength pours packed with flavor while remaining remarkably smooth.   Big Chief kicks things off with the Reserve Rye at 143 proof — unfiltered and unapologetic. Dark caramel, black pepper, baking spice, and toasted oak explode from the glass before finishing with a long warming spice.   He then moves to the Reserve Bourbon at 142.2 proof to close out the first half. Vanilla bean, maple syrup, dark cherry, and caramelized sugar coat the palate with a rich oily mouthfeel that drinks far smoother than the proof suggests.   On the second half, Big Chief pours the Cigar Blend — a toasted barrel-finished bourbon at 141 proof — and immediately gets transported back to childhood campfires and s'mores. Toasted marshmallow, graham cracker, melted chocolate, espresso, and charred oak create one unforgettable pour.   To finish the ride, Big Chief pours their American Single Malt at 134.4 proof, which quickly became the star of the show. Honey, toasted malt, dark fruit, chocolate-covered raisins, and subtle smoke deliver a rich and balanced finish that refused to quit.   Throughout the episode, Paul shares the story behind building 13th Century Whiskey, the inspiration behind the unforgettable bottles, and the passion required to stand apart in today's whiskey world.   Take the Ride. Cheers.