Crafting Success: Lessons from James Bay Distillers’ Co-Founder
Release Date: 07/01/2024
Heritage in a Glass: How Tomas Nava is Revolutionizing Mexican Whiskey with Heirloom Corn
The Distillery Nation Podcast
In the evolving landscape of global spirits, one visionary stands at the forefront of a quiet revolution. Tomas Nava, owner and distiller at , is redefining what Mexican whiskey can be through his passionate commitment to heritage and innovation. Nava's journey began behind the bar, where he pioneered his town's first mezcal establishment. This immersion in Mexico's traditional spirits sparked a curiosity that would later flourish into full-scale production. After exploring gin-making with a distinctive Prickly Pear base, Nava found his true calling in whiskey—but with a uniquely...
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Crafting the Perfect Tasting Room: Insights from Bar Owner Chall Gray
The Distillery Nation Podcast
In this month's episode of The Distillery Nation Podcast, we dive into the world of tasting rooms and hospitality with acclaimed bar owner and author . Known for his practical guidebook r, Chall brings years of hands-on experience in creating exceptional guest experiences. For distillers looking to expand their brand presence through a tasting room, this conversation offers invaluable insights. Chall and I explore the critical importance of location selection—examining foot traffic patterns, neighborhood dynamics, and how your space should reflect your brand identity. We discuss how a...
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Building Million-Dollar Spirits Brands: Inside Top Shelf Ventures with Noah Friedman
The Distillery Nation Podcast
In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we sit down with Noah Friedman, co-founder of , to explore the fascinating world of spirits investment and brand building. If you've ever wondered how certain spirits brands rise to prominence while others struggle to gain traction, this conversation offers some compelling answers. Noah shares the story behind Top Shelf Ventures and walks us through their approach to identifying promising alcohol brands. With the spirits industry facing new challenges and shifting consumer preferences, his insights on navigating these changes while...
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Distillery Nation 2024 Year in Review: 11 Game-Changing Conversations in Craft Spirits
The Distillery Nation Podcast
The craft spirits industry continues to evolve, and this year's Distillery Nation Podcast interviews have unveiled invaluable wisdom from some of the most innovative minds in distilling. As we wrap up 2024, we're reflecting on the profound insights shared by industry leaders who've helped shape the craft spirits landscape. Industry Innovation & Identity Matt Howell of Chuckanut Bay Distillery emphasized the critical importance of establishing a distinct market identity, while Aleks Zhdanov from 3BR Distillery showcased the power of innovation through unconventional approaches, including...
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Building a Heritage: Jennifer and Justin Stiefiel's Journey from Local Distillers to Industry Innovators
The Distillery Nation Podcast
In this month's episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we sit down with Jennifer and Justin Stiefiel, the visionary co-founders of , who share their remarkable journey from craft distilling dreamers to NASDAQ-listed industry innovators. The Stiefiels take us back to their humble beginnings, revealing how their passion for craft spirits and commitment to excellence laid the foundation for what would become one of the most dynamic distilleries in the United States. Their story is a masterclass in combining traditional distilling practices with innovative business approaches. One of...
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Art Meets Spirits: How Seth Watson's Distillery Of Modern Art Blends Creativity and Craft
The Distillery Nation Podcast
In this month's episode of Distillery Nation Podcast, we sit down with Seth Watson, the visionary founder behind the . This conversation reveals how Watson has revolutionized the traditional distillery model by creating a unique space where craft spirits meet artistic expression and hospitality excellence. Watson takes us through his entrepreneurial journey, sharing the challenges and triumphs of the early years. His innovative approach wasn't just about producing exceptional spirits – it was about creating an immersive experience that would resonate with both spirit enthusiasts and art...
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From Oyster Shells to Shelves: Distillery 98's Sustainable Vodka Journey
The Distillery Nation Podcast
In this latest episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Harrison Holditch, co-founder of , the makers of Half Shell Vodka. Our conversation took a deep dive into their journey of crafting one of the most unique vodkas on the market, all while prioritizing sustainability. Harrison shared the story behind Half Shell Vodka, which is not just a name but a nod to their innovative approach to filtering vodka through oyster shells. This fascinating process aligns with their mission to reduce waste and stay connected to the coastal community they call...
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Elevating Your Tasting Room: Insights with A Bar Above's Chris Tunstall
The Distillery Nation Podcast
In the latest episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we had the pleasure of chatting with Chris Tunstall, co-founder of ! Chris has been a driving force in the world of cocktails and bar education, with a mission to elevate the bar experience for both professionals and enthusiasts alike. In this episode, Chris shares his deep knowledge and expertise on a range of topics that are invaluable for distillers and bar owners. We dive into the art of cocktail creation and how distilleries can maximize their tasting room experience to engage customers and create memorable moments. Chris also...
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Navigating the Headwinds: Insights from Mark Beres on the Craft Spirits Landscape (Part 2)
The Distillery Nation Podcast
We’re excited to bring you the second part of our insightful series with Mark Beres, co-founder and CEO of Flying Leap Vineyards and Distillery, on the Distillery Nation Podcast. After exploring the significant headwinds in the craft spirits space in part one, we now shift our focus to solutions. In this episode, Mark and I dive into practical strategies and actionable advice to tackle the challenges that distillery owners are facing today. With high production costs being a major hurdle, we discuss innovative ways to reduce expenses without sacrificing quality. Mark shares tips on...
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Navigating the Headwinds: Insights from Mark Beres on the Craft Spirits Landscape (Part 1)
The Distillery Nation Podcast
We are thrilled to announce a special two-part episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast featuring Mark Beres, the President and CEO of Flying Leap Vineyards and Distillery. In part one of our discussion, Mark and I explore the significant challenges distillery owners face today. With production costs soaring, access to capital becoming increasingly restricted, rapid market growth presenting both opportunities and hurdles, and consumer behavior constantly evolving, the landscape for craft spirits is more dynamic than ever. Mark shares his valuable insights on how distillery owners can navigate...
info_outlineIn the latest episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we had the pleasure of chatting with Ernie Troth, co-founder and distiller at James Bay Distillers. Based in the Pacific Northwest, James Bay Distillers is celebrated for its exceptional craft whiskey, gin, and Scotch.
Ernie provides an engaging and insightful look into the world of importing Scotch into the United States. He shares the unique challenges and strategies involved in navigating the complex legal and logistical landscape of international spirits trade. From the regulatory hurdles to the best practices that ensure a smooth import process, Ernie’s experiences offer valuable lessons for anyone interested in the business side of the spirits industry.
Our conversation also delves into the broader aspects of the distillery’s operations, including their approach to crafting top-notch whiskey and gin. Ernie recounts some of the key moments and decisions that have shaped James Bay Distillers, providing a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build a successful craft distillery.
Whether you’re a seasoned distiller, an aspiring entrepreneur, or a spirits enthusiast, this episode is packed with practical advice, intriguing stories, and the kind of industry insights that can only come from someone who’s deeply immersed in the craft.
Tune in to discover the dedication and craftsmanship behind James Bay Distillers’ premium spirits and gain a new appreciation for the complexities of the distilling business.