Spirited Discussions: A Podcast by Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services

September is National Bourbon Heritage Month celebrating bourbon as a distinctive American product. Sazerac Company Brand Ambassador Matt Ray and ABS Retail Operations Manager join host Jocelyn Rawat to discuss Maryland's role in bourbon history, tips for a perfect old fashioned, seasonal bourbon cocktails, and how you can get highly sought-after bottles at the suggested retail price.

Summer is made for patios, cookouts, beach drives, and maybe alcoholic drinks. But it also brings the “hundred deadliest days.” MVA Administrator Chrissy Nizer, ABS Outreach Manager Roddy Aguirre, and essay contest winner Elise Bradley talk plainly about what keeps our community safe as we enjoy prom, graduation, road trips, and lazy days with family and friends. Plus, test your knowledge with Chrissy’s quiz.

Montgomery County is well known for its shopping, dining and culture. But did you know that in the Agricultural Reserve, it is also wine country? We sit down with Keith Miller, CEO of the Montgomery County Revenue Authority, and Angie Alvarez from ABS’s Seneca Meadows retail store to discuss how The Crossvines, ABS, and others are working toward economic development, agricultural tourism, and opportunity for local winemakers. 
The transcript for this episode is available here:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2345583/19170747-growing-montgomery-county-wine-country/transcript

Change is on the menu. Chris Swonger, President and CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, and Kathie Durbin, Director of Alcohol Beverage Services, unpack how consumer habits, global trade, and local policy are reshaping the drinks landscape. From falling overall alcohol use to surging curiosity about flavor, moderation, and convenience, guests examine the forces affecting your next purchase.
The transcript of this episode can be found here:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2345583/18713030-navigating-change-in-the-spirits-industry/transcript

Wine Educator Robert Cavanaugh and Kensington Store Manager Preston James share smart, budget‑savvy ways to choose wines and spirits for holiday parties, stocking stuffers, and tasteful gifts. Get expert tips on dessert wines, eggnog, and global liquors. And learn how to score rare bourbons at great prices. Want a signature cocktail for your celebration? Try Robert’s variations on the Kir Royale or Preston’s overnight sangria.
The transcript of this episode can be found here:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2345583/18245732-holiday-gift-guide/transcript