Bourbon Pursuit

Where do you go when you're on top? That could be said for elite quarterbacks or CEOs of top 20 global companies. But if you're the master distiller for the largest whiskey brand on planet earth, what could you possibly do next? We get to answer that today as we are honored to have Jeff Arnett back on the show. He was a prior guest back on Episode 150 when he carried the title of Master Distiller for Jack Daniel's. Since then, he's gone into a new venture and is now testing his grit in startup life as a partner with Company Distilling. We talk about the feelings he had when he left and what sort of vision he set for himself with this new role. We get into the business a bit further with distribution and more but I won't spoil the insight he shares.
Show Notes:
Jeff's pivotal decision to leave Jack Daniel's after 20 years

The creative freedom he found at Company Distilling

Insights on crafting a weeded bourbon with a unique maple finish

Analysis of the whiskey market's evolution and consumer trends

A look at Company Distilling’s community-centric vision

Reflections on his passion for cars and the shift towards electric vehicles

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Willett and Wolves team up on a bold rye whiskey collaboration blending Kentucky and California aged barrels. Packed with vibrant citrus, pine, ginger candy, and unexpected IPA-like vibes, this Whiskey Quickie dives into one of the most unique rye profiles we’ve tasted recently.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.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's This Week in Bourbon for January 16th 2026. Whiskey House finishes its first warehouse using KRAX, Sazerac wins an initial trademark dispute against Liv Golf, and High West releases its annual cask strength.Show Notes:
KBCA unveils "Revolution" auction lots featuring King of Kentucky and Old Forester experiences

Artisan Distillery in San Antonio announces permanent closure effective January 2026

Pennsylvania opens January 2026 lottery for Van Winkle, BTAC, and E.H. Taylor

Whiskey House of Kentucky completes its first seven-story K-RAX innovative rickhouse

Reyes Beverage Group in talks to acquire RNDC operations in seven major markets

Sazerac wins partial trademark victory against LIV Golf’s “Fireballs GC” team name

Rebel Bourbon brings back Rebel Root Beer Whiskey nationwide at 70 proof

High West Distillery releases limited-edition Cask Strength blend of 6-20 year bourbons

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s that time of year when we polish off the crystal ball and try to guess exactly where the bourbon industry is headed in 2026. The panel dives into some high-stakes predictions on the rise of exclusive distillery clubs and the portential rise of the craft sector by leaning into Direct-to-Consumer sales. We also get into some scarier territory—think tariffs and the possibility of major distilleries actually pausing production—while others weighs in on the acquisition frenzy that’s continuing to reshape the landscape. We also tackle the death of FOMO on limited releases, the push for even higher-proof offerings, and the wild possibility of NIL deals between universities and distilleries. Will your favorite college quarterback have a signature bottle pick soon? We’re breaking it all down to see how economic and political factors will keep the bourbon scene shaking in the year ahead.
Show Notes:
Bourbon Pursuit explores 2026 predictions for the bourbon industry

Insights on the future of distillery clubs and exclusive consumer offers

Discussion on tariff impacts and potential production pauses

The rising prominence of craft distilleries and direct sales strategies

Evolution of FOMO among bourbon consumers

Speculation on NIL partnerships within the bourbon sector

Insights into how GLP-1 medications might affect drinking habits

Reflections on past predictions and the industry's direction

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We take a look at the 2025 Michter’s Toasted Barrel Sour Mash Whiskey, an 86-proof release that delivers bold popcorn and kettle corn notes from nose to finish. This Whiskey Quickie breaks down the aromas, flavors, and overall profile of this unique toasted barrel expression.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.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices