In the first year of the American Spirits Council of Tasters (ASCOTs), we pursued a business model in spirits competitions that’s never been executed before. Nearly half of the entrants did not receive an award, and we put caps on what earned Double Platinum, Platinum … Continue readingFirst Round & Category Winners of the ASCOT Awards
My 2020 American Whiskey of the Year contenders vary from the rare and hard-to-find to the exceptional everyday bourbons. And in the year of great challenges, when their backs were against the wall, craft distillers showed up big time this year. MB Roland, Peerless, Spirits … Continue readingBest Bourbon And American Whiskey of the Year Contenders
Lost Lantern, a Vermont-based bottling company founded in 2018, will officially release its first whiskey in October. American Vatted Malt Edition No. 1, a blend of whiskeys from six different distilleries across the U.S., will be available online starting Oct. 1 at the company’s website … Continue readingLost Lantern to Release First Whiskey, a Single Malt Blend From Six U.S. Distilleries
Coming into the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, my mind raced with many wonderful personal and professional things. Jaclyn is pregnant, and the Bourbon & Beyond announcement neared. In constant excitement about our upcoming baby boy and the eagerness to see bourbon on stage with … Continue readingBest Bourbon? Or Bourbon Pride? The story of ’18 San Fran Spirits Comp
I’m excited to announce February events that include some major headliners, including former Balcones master distiller Chip Tate and Buffalo Trace master distiller Harlen Wheatley. Kentucky Derby Museum, Louisville, Ky., February 5 – As part of the ongoing Legends Series, I’m hosting Buffalo Trace master … Continue readingFormer Balcones distiller Chip Tate Headlines Upcoming Events
After my Whisky Advocate blog post about Balcones founder Chip Tate, I immediately requested an interview with the current Balcones ownership for their side of the story. I did not receive an interview, but received an email statement, which I’m publishing in its entirety. … Continue readingBalcones Owner Responds to Chip Tate Comments