
Bourbon Pursuit
The Official Podcast of Bourbon! The best in news, reviews and interviews with people making the bourbon whiskey industry happen. Join hosts Kenny Coleman, Ryan Cecil, and Fred Minnick as they talk with prominent guests and provide insight on American whiskey 3 times a week. Catch all new episodes every Thursday with special Whiskey Quickie reviews on Tuesday and get caught up on bourbon news with This Week in Bourbon on Friday.
Latest episodes

Jul 1, 2025 • 6min
Whiskey Quickie: Fanged Pursuit Bourbon Review
On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Fanged Pursuit from Orphan Barrel. This 17 year old bourbon is 92 proof and $200 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!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

Jun 27, 2025 • 41min
Behind The Pursuit: PursuitPalooza2025
Subscribe to Behind The Pursuit: From Bourbon to Brand
Another PursuitPalooza is in the books! Each year, the guys host a unique and immersive experience here in town for their listeners and fans. The event includes distillery tours, barrel picks, tastings, and social gatherings from relationships they’ve built over the years of running the podcast. This year, the event featured visits to Angel's Envy, Lux Row, and the new Heaven Hill Springs Distillery. Participants had the opportunity to taste rare and limited-edition whiskies, learn about the distillation process, and connect with fellow bourbon enthusiasts. The event also included a whole lot of Shebanging at the Pursuit HQ, as well as guests having their own Whiskey Quickie for Bourbon Pursuit from blind samples in the building. On today’s episode, we recap it all.
P.club by Pursuit Spirits puts you in the inner circle. As a member, you’ll unlock exclusive distillery-only releases, VIP access to live virtual tastings with Q&As, 10% off all merch and special perks. Whether you choose free doorstep delivery or distillery pickup, you’ll always be first in line for our newest drops. With a flexible cart and priority access to limited barrels, P.Club isn’t just a membership—it’s your all-access pass to Pursuit. Sign up today.
Come and see us on Mellwood! Be sure to visit pursuitspirits.com and click on Visit Us to book a tasting or barrel selection experience. For questions or topic requests on upcoming episodes, email us at podcast@pursuitspirits.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 26, 2025 • 1h 22min
520 - What does it take to build a Bourbon brand today? on Bourbon Community Roundtable #107
On this dynamic episode of Bourbon Pursuit, we're pulling up a few extra chairs to the table for a killer panel discussion! Your host Kenny Coleman is wrangling some serious bourbon brains: Fred Minnick, Blake Seelbach, Eric from Breaking Bourbon, and Brian Sipp from Sip and Corn.
We kick things off with a little banter about those inevitable tech glitches and distillation woes before diving deep into the real meat and potatoes: what does it really take to launch a bourbon brand today versus five years ago?
Blake points out that while getting started might seem easier with more resources available, the true test of survival for any new brand hinges on smart distribution strategies in an ever-consolidating market. The crew digs into critical topics like consumer education, the art of storytelling, and how to even compete against the established giants out there. Fred brings his signature insight, emphasizing that today's consumers have evolving expectations – new brands have to deliver on both quality and effective marketing.
The panel also explores how whiskey marketing itself is changing, agreeing that a compelling narrative is absolutely essential to stand out in this saturated market. We chew on the pros and cons of the direct-to-consumer model and even debate whether contract distillation is the smartest play for newcomers.
As we wind down, Kenny leaves us with an encouraging thought: building a brand is tough, no doubt, but with the right approach, it can be incredibly rewarding. This episode is packed with insightful discussion, plenty of laughs, and is a must-listen for anyone who loves bourbon or dreams of launching their own brand.
Show Notes:
Who are the panelists that joined Kenny?
Tips for improving tech setups for podcasts.
Current challenges and opportunities in starting a bourbon brand.
The importance of consumer education in the bourbon space.
How to navigate distributor and retailer dynamics.
The significance of storytelling for new whiskey brands.
The benefits and pitfalls of a strong online presence.
Insights on contract distillation as a pathway for newcomers.
Future trends and predictions for the bourbon industry.
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Jun 24, 2025 • 6min
Whiskey Quickie: Wild Turkey 101 8 Year Bourbon Review
On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Wild Turkey 101 8 Year Bourbon. This 8 year old bourbon is 101 proof and $45 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!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

Jun 20, 2025 • 39min
TWiB: Whiskey House & The Koetter Group new projects, New Maker's Mark exhibition by Dale Chihuly, Dierks Bentley introduces ROW 94 Broken Branches
It’s This Week in Bourbon for June 20th 2025. Whiskey House and The Koetter Group will build 12 state-of-the-art rickhouses, Maker's Mark has announced a new exhibition by contemporary artist Dale Chihuly, and Dierks Bentley is introducing ROW 94 Broken Branches.Show Notes:
Bourbon & Beyond announces culinary and spirits lineup for 2025 festival.
Whiskey House of Kentucky partners with Koetter Group to build 12 new K-RAX rickhouses.
Former Oregon liquor head fined $1,500 for diverting rare bourbon.
Give 270 to host Bourbon Strong 50-4-50 raffle featuring Booker's Single Barrel.
High West Distillery partners with Luke Grimes for 'Protect the West' initiative.
Green River Distilling Co. debuts U.S. Army 250th Anniversary Bourbon with airborne delivery.
Maker's Mark announces Dale Chihuly art exhibition and expanded culinary program at Star Hill Farm.
Old Forester launches new Bourbon-infused Cocktail Cherries.
Blue Note Bourbon introduces its first Single Barrel Straight Rye Whiskey.
Dierks Bentley's ROW 94 launches "Broken Branches" bourbon with unique "Branch Aging" process.
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Jun 19, 2025 • 1h 6min
519 - Does Ambassador Emeritus Mean Retirement? with Bernie Lubbers of Heaven Hill
You know, there are some people in the bourbon world who aren't just part of the industry, they are the industry. And our guest today absolutely fits that bill. We are incredibly excited to welcome the one and only Bernie Lubbers to the show, the newly appointed Ambassador Emeritus at Heaven Hill! Bernie started his journey with Heaven Hill back in 2005, and since then, he's basically rewritten the book on making bourbon fun and accessible through his incredible storytelling and humor.
In this episode, Bernie takes us through his fascinating career, including his pivotal role in bringing bottled-in-bond back into the spotlight, how tasting events have evolved, and the impact of age statements on bourbon production. Get ready for some fantastic anecdotes as Bernie shares his passion for whiskey, why quality always comes first, and his take on current market trends, like the growing demand for older, stronger bourbons. Of course, we couldn't have Bernie without a tasting, so we're pouring Bernheim Barrel Proof and William Heaven Hill – a true celebration of unique whiskeys among friends. As he reflects on his new Ambassador Emeritus role and what "retirement" actually means for Bernie Lubbers, he gives us some amazing insights into the relationships and creativity that truly fuel the bourbon community. Plus, stick around for some exciting teasers of upcoming releases and Bernie's signature blend of whiskey education with a dash of bluegrass!
Show Notes:
His transition to Ambassador Emeritus at Heaven Hill and the journey that led him there.
The revitalization of bottled-in-bond whiskey in modern bourbon culture.
Navigating the complexities of age statements and consumer demand in the bourbon industry.
The significance of storytelling and tasting events in enhancing whiskey appreciation.
The evolution of consumer tastes towards barrel-proof whiskeys.
Upcoming releases from Heaven Hill and the harmonious blend of bluegrass with whiskey storytelling.
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Jun 17, 2025 • 5min
Whiskey Quickie: Frank August Case Study: 05 Wheated Bourbon Review
On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Frank August Case Study: 05 Wheated Bourbon. This 6-7 year old bourbon is 104.5 proof and $125 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!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

Jun 13, 2025 • 44min
TWiB: New Bourbon Hall of Fame Inductees, Bardstown Bourbon The Reserve, Stitzel Reserve
The Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame announces new inductees and a remarkable charity auction selling a rare Pappy Van Winkle for $800,000. Bardstown Bourbon unveils an exclusive whiskey club, while Stitzel-Weller launches the coveted Stitzel Reserve series, featuring a remarkable 24-year-old bourbon. Exciting updates from other distilleries include Remus Bourbon's ultra-limited release and Buffalo Trace's new Eagle Rare. Plus, prepare for a lively Pursuit Palooza, celebrating bourbon culture and community like never before!

Jun 12, 2025 • 1h 14min
518 - The Heart of Whiskey Community with Randy Sullivan of Bourbon Real Talk
At Bourbon Pursuit, we always talk about the community aspect of whiskey, but rarely do we get to sit down with someone whose personal journey so deeply intertwines with building that community. That's why I was so excited to welcome Randy Sullivan to the show today. You might know him from Bourbon Real Talk or his brand, Prideful Goat. Randy shares a truly heartfelt story about how personal loss, specifically the passing of his brother, became a catalyst for him to create welcoming spaces for whiskey lovers. This conversation is packed with genuine moments – from hilarious reflections on his early days and the unique connections he's made, including how challenge coins got introduced into the scene! Randy is incredibly open about his own battles with mental health and the powerful impact the whiskey community has had on him. We also touch on the spontaneous journey behind co-founding Prideful Goat, focusing on quality and authenticity. Ultimately, this episode is a powerful reminder from Randy about the warmth and support found in the whiskey community and the simple, yet profound, importance of connection and looking out for one another
Show Notes:
Randy Sullivan's heartfelt journey in whiskey
The impactful role of Jack Daniels in his life
Founding Someone Say Whiskey and fostering positivity
The concept of "challenge coins" in whiskey networking
Navigating mental health dialogues within the whiskey community
The inception of Prideful Goat and its core values
The power of relationships and cherished memories through whiskey
Randy's uplifting message about love and support for the community
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Jun 10, 2025 • 6min
Whiskey Quickie: Angel's Envy Cellar Collection Volume 5 Rye Whiskey Review
On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Angel's Envy Cellar Collection Volume 5. This non-age stated rye whiskey is 104.2 proof and $270 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!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