337: Mixing It Up with Charles Joly: Summer Cocktails, Bartending Tips, & Crafthouse Cocktails
Bourbon Lens
In this episode of Bourbon Lens, Jake and Scott are joined by world-renowned bartender and cocktail pioneer Charles Joly. A James Beard Award-winning mixologist and co-founder of Crafthouse Cocktails, Charles brings decades of experience to the table, from co-creating The Aviary in Chicago to elevating the ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktail game. We dive into: Cocktail fundamentals for home bartenders Summer cocktail ideas to beat the heat Charles’ thoughts on classic vs. contemporary recipes The story behind Crafthouse Cocktails and their recent launch onboard United Airlines flights Whether...
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336: Sagamore Spirit Maryland Rye and a Bold New Era
Bourbon Lens
Sagamore Spirit Ushers in a New Era with Maryland-Made Rye Whiskey. In this episode of Bourbon Lens, Jake and Scott sit down with Clint Spotleson, Global Advocacy & Engagement Manager at Sagamore Spirit, to talk all things Maryland Rye. The conversation marks an exciting new phase for the Baltimore-based distillery as it moves forward with its first Maryland-distilled rye whiskeys. We discuss the journey behind Sagamore Spirit’s 7-Year-Old Bottled in Bond Maryland Rye Whiskey, a bold expression that meets the strict standards of the Bottled in Bond Act and showcases the distillery’s...
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335: Four Branches Honors Service with Heritage-Inspired Bourbons
Bourbon Lens
In this episode of Bourbon Lens, Jake sits down with Rick Franco, Co-Founder of Four Branches Bourbon, and their newly appointed Strategic Advisor, Master Distiller Gregg Snyder. The conversation explores the brand’s ties to military service, its approach to bourbon, and its expanding product lineup. We dive into Four Branches’ signature Founder's Blend, a complex four grain bourbon, and what sets it apart in the premium whiskey landscape. We also discuss the inspiration and details behind their latest release: The Continental, a limited-edition small batch bourbon created in honor of the...
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334: Inside Maker’s Mark: Legacy, Innovation, and the Creation of Star Hill Farm Whisky
Bourbon Lens
In this episode of Bourbon Lens, Jake and Scott take the podcast on the road to Loretto, Kentucky, home of the iconic Maker’s Mark Distillery. Recorded on-site, we sit down with Dr. Blake Layfield, Master Distiller, and Beth Buckner, Lead Blender, to dive deep into the storied past and exciting future of the Maker’s Mark brand. Together, we explore how Maker’s Mark continues to honor its traditional roots while innovating for the next generation. From the introduction of the distillery’s first new mashbills in decades to the debut of Star Hill Farm Whisky, a brand new wheat whiskey,...
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333: Inside Independent Bottling: Jason Johnstone-Yellin of Single Cask Nation
Bourbon Lens
In this episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, Jake sits down with Jason Johnstone-Yellin, co-founder of Single Cask Nation, to explore the world of independent bottling. Jason shares the story behind the brand, the art of selecting unique casks, and how Single Cask Nation builds transparency and trust with its community of whisky lovers. From Scotch to American Whiskey and beyond, Jason discusses how Single Cask Nation navigates the global spirits market, cultivates relationships with distilleries, and continues to push the boundaries of what independent bottlers can offer. Whether you’re a...
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332: Celebrating 10 Years of Frey Ranch with the Harvester Series
Bourbon Lens
In this week’s episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, Jake and Scott raise a glass to Frey Ranch Distillery as they unveil the 10th Anniversary Harvester Series. The duo dives into the history of Frey Ranch, explores the innovation behind this milestone release, and shares stories from years of collaboration and friendship with the Frey Ranch team. Listeners will get an inside look at what makes Frey Ranch’s grain-to-glass approach so unique, how the Harvester Series stands out in the market, and why this Nevada-based distillery continues to be a fan favorite in the American whiskey...
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331: RD1 Distillery Has A New Brand Home
Bourbon Lens
Jake travels down 1-64 to Lexington to see the new RD1 Distillery Brand Home. While there, he sits down with co-founder and National Brand Ambassador Barry Brinegar. Sit back and buckle into the latest episode of the bourbon lens. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we’d appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens podcast. If you enjoy our content, consider giving us a 5 Star rating on your favorite podcast app, leave us a written...
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330: Unpacking Joseph Magnus with Master Blender Nancy Fraley and CEO Ali Anderson
Bourbon Lens
In this week’s episode of the Bourbon Lens, Jake sits down with one of the original ultra premium bourbons: Joseph A Magnus. We are joined by CEO of Craft Co Ali Anderson and world renowned blender Nancy Fraley. You won’t want to miss this episode as we unpack the history of Joseph Magnus, Murray Hill Club and the original Cigar Blend. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must give the biggest shoutout to our amazing community of Patreon supporters! As always, we'd appreciate it if you would take a few minutes time to give us feedback on Bourbon Lens...
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329: Exploring 3 Unique New Tequila Cask-Finished Whiskeys
Bourbon Lens
In this episode of the Bourbon Lens Podcast, Jake and Scott dive into the . The conversation highlights three standout new bottles: Angel’s Envy Cellar Collection Vol. 5 Tequila Cask Finish, Blood Oath Pact 11, and Woodinville Tequila Finished Bourbon. It's the perfect podcast to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. The hosts explore how finishing bourbon in tequila barrels affects aroma, flavor, and overall complexity—bringing out vibrant citrus, vegetal agave notes, and a unique sweetness not typically found in traditional bourbon and rye. They also discuss the influence American Whiskey has...
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328: Blood Oath Pact 11 and Lux Row's Journey with John Rempe
Bourbon Lens
In our latest episode of the Bourbon Lens, Jake travels to Bardstown to sit down with John Rempe, Master Distiller of Lux Row. During the interview the distillery was electric as their Front Row members were awaiting some of the first sips of the new . Our conversation centered around the new bourbon finished in anejo Tequila barrels. However, there is a lot happening at the distillery as they continue to become a household name across the world. Sit back and buckle in for the latest episode of the Bourbon Lens. We are thankful for your support over the last 6 years. We must...
info_outlineSagamore Spirit Ushers in a New Era with Maryland-Made Rye Whiskey.
In this episode of Bourbon Lens, Jake and Scott sit down with Clint Spotleson, Global Advocacy & Engagement Manager at Sagamore Spirit, to talk all things Maryland Rye. The conversation marks an exciting new phase for the Baltimore-based distillery as it moves forward with its first Maryland-distilled rye whiskeys.
We discuss the journey behind Sagamore Spirit’s 7-Year-Old Bottled in Bond Maryland Rye Whiskey, a bold expression that meets the strict standards of the Bottled in Bond Act and showcases the distillery’s commitment to quality and legacy. Clint also walks us through their newest high-proof offering, the Cask Strength Rye, which delivers intensity, flavor, and balance for rye enthusiasts.
As Sagamore Spirit transitions from contract distillation to proudly producing and aging its whiskey in Maryland, this episode explores how the brand honors tradition while pushing the boundaries of flavor and transparency. If you're a fan of rye whiskey or curious about the Maryland whiskey revival, this is a must-listen conversation.
We’re incredibly grateful for your continued support over the past six years. A special thank you goes out to our amazing community of Patreon supporters—your support helps keep Bourbon Lens going strong! If you’re enjoying the podcast, consider leaving a 5-star rating, writing a quick review, and sharing the show with a fellow bourbon enthusiast.
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Explore BourbonLens.com for blog posts, the latest whiskey news, our full podcast archive, and detailed whiskey reviews.
Cheers,
Scott & Jake
Bourbon Lens
About Clint Spotleson:
Clint Spotleson is the Global Advocacy & Engagement Manager for Sagamore Spirit, a distillery known for its Maryland-style rye whiskey. He's a passionate advocate for whiskey, especially Sagamore's, and frequently discusses its history and unique qualities. Spotleson also has a background in bartending and hospitality, which informs his understanding of cocktails and spirits.
Spotleson works to promote Sagamore Spirit's brand and products, sharing information about their whiskey and the craft behind it. He's knowledgeable about the history and characteristics of Sagamore's rye whiskey, particularly the use of corn in the mash bill, which contributes to its unique flavor profile. Spotleson's experience as a bartender and beverage manager provides him with insights into cocktail creation and the guest experience, which he uses to showcase Sagamore's whiskeys. Spotleson highlights the distillery's focus on traditional Maryland-style rye whiskey and its commitment to quality and craft. He's enthusiastic about the role of whiskey in American history and the importance of sharing great whiskey with others. Spotleson actively engages with consumers and industry professionals, helping to grow Sagamore Spirit's brand and reach.