Episode 120 features Everclear Grain Alcohol. Bottled in 750ml at 95% ABV, or 190 proof and it retails for about $21.Enjoy this episode with something you've made with Everclear.Everclear's official website: https://diywitheverclear.com/Brief Historical Timeline:1922 - Everclear is mentioned in various issues of the Druggists Circular as a product of American Distilling Company.1936 - Article lists Everclear alongside whiskey, gin and rum.1950 - Everclear is registered as a trademark.1981 - American Distilling Company sells the Everclear brand to David Sherman Corporation.2006 - David Sherman Corporation rebrands as Luxco.2015 - First marketing campaign for Everclear, the "Make It Your Own" is launched. 2018 - New packaging, labeling is introduced.2021 - Luxco is purchased by MGP Ingredients.Key Cocktails:Everclear is described as a blank canvas, a clean slate and open invitation to make it your own. Everclear will add more "Punch to your Punch." Ample recipes are featured on the brand's website. References:Luxco WebsiteVinepair Article on Everclear HistoryVinepair List on EverclearThe Druggists Circular Punch Article on RebrandPress Release on Updated PackagingWikipedia Article on EverclearMGP Purchase of LuxcoArt Alexakis Quote on Everclear as his Band NameContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/

Episode 119 features Kentucky Owl, Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey - Maighstir Edition. Bottled in 750ml at 50% ABV, or 100 proof and it retails for about $134.Enjoy this episode with a pour of Kentucky Owl as you like it.Kentucky Owl's official website: https://kentuckyowlbourbon.com/ Brief Historical Timeline:1879 - Kentucky Owl is founded by C.M. Dedman.1916 - Production ends and aging stocks are confiscated by the US government, they are then all "lost in a fire".2014 - Dixon Dedman, great-great-grandson of the founder, releases Batch #1, resurrecting the brand.2017 - Stoli Group purchases Kentucky Owl.2018 - Groundbreaking of the 420 acre distillery complex and brand home.2023 - Maureen Robinson collaborates with John Rhea in the release of the Maighstir Edition.2023 - Maureen Robinson is named Master Blender for Kentucky Owl.Key Cocktails:Simply drink Kentucky Owl as you like it. Neat, on the rocks, with water, or you could mix it if you like.References:Interview with Kentucky Owl’s Master Blender, Maureen RobinsonStoli Group WebsiteCoverage of Stoli Group's Purchase of Kentucky OwlKentucky Owl's Distillery Complex AnnouncementPress Release on Maureen Robinson Becoming Master BlenderPress Release on Maighstir Edition ReleaseMaureen Robinson BackgroundKeepers of the QuaichStory of Kentucky Owl in American WhiskeyThe Whiskey Wash Article on Kentucky OwlForbes Article on Kentucky OwlThe Beaumont Inn WebsiteContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram:

Episode 118 features St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram. Bottled in 750ml at 22.5% ABV, or 45 proof and it retails for about $30.Enjoy this episode with a tiki cocktail using "Pimento Dram" if you like.St. Elizabeth doesn't have standalone brand website, but here's the producer's website: https://alpenz.com/product-allspice.html Brief Historical Timeline:1850s - Pimento Dram is thought to have been invented.1862 - First written reference to Pimento Dram as a commercial product.1900s - Pimento Dram is fairly common, and finds use in Tiki cocktails.1980s - Pimento Dram leaves the US market.2008 - Haus Alpenz creates St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram, bringing Pimento Dram back to the US.Key Cocktails:St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram works in many tiki cocktails, but try this British concoction from 1937, the Lion's Tail.Ingredients:2 oz. Bourbon0.5 oz. of St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram0.5 oz. fresh squeezed lime juice1 teaspoon simple syrup2 dashes Angostura bittersOrange twist Combine ingredients in a shaker with ice, shake until well-chilled, then strain into a coupe or cocktail glass. Express oil from the orange twist over the top of the drink and discard (the twist, not the drink!). References:Book: Vintage Spirits & Forgotten Cocktails by Ted Haigh, copyright 2009 revised edition.Wikipedia Article on AllspiceWikipedia Article on Saint Elizabeth ParishWhat is Pimento Dram by The Spruce Eats2008 Article from the San Francisco Chronicle discussing the launch of St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram2015 New York Times ArticleCocktail Society Article on Allspice DramLiquor.com Article on the Lions Tale CocktailContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/

Episode 117 features Four Roses. Bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof and it retails for about $25.Enjoy this episode with a pour of Four Roses however you like.Four Roses official website: https://www.fourrosesbourbon.com/ Brief Historical Timeline:1860s - Paul Jones Sr. and Paul Jones Jr. get into the whiskey business in Atlanta, Georgia 1883 - Paul Jones Jr. moves to Louisville, Kentucky and builds his whiskey business there.1888 - The brand of Four Roses is founded with a legend of a southern belle and a corsage of four red roses.1894 - Paul Jones Jr. makes his nephews Lawrence Lavelle Jones and Saunders Paul equal partners in the Paul Jones Company.1895 - Paul Jones Jr. dies.Circa 1910 - Lawrence buys his brother Saunders out of the business1922 - Lawrence buys the Frankfort Distilling Company during Prohibition and securing a rare license to sell whiskey for "Medicinal Purposes Only."1941 - Lawrence dies, leaving the company to heirs would almost immediately sell it.1943 - Seagrams headed by Samuel Bronfman purchases Four Roses and Frankfort Distilling Company for $42 million.1950s - Seagrams converts Four Roses to a blended whiskey for the US market, reserving straight bourbon versions for export markets.1990s - Master Distiller Jim Rutledge convinces Seagrams to bring the straight bourbon back to the USA, in Kentucky only.2001 - Seagrams goes bankrupt and the beverage alcohol brands are sold off. Kirin Brewery Company, Ltd., Four Roses' Japanese distributor buys the brand.2002 - Four Roses Straight Bourbon Whiskey is bak on US shelves.2015 - Brent Elliott is named Master Distiller and a $55 million expansion of the distillery begins.2019 - Distillery expansion is complete, doubling capacity to 130,000 barrels a year.Key Cocktails:Drink Four Roses as you like, it mixes well in any cocktail calling for bourbon.References:Book: Four Roses - The Return of a Whiskey Legend by Al Young, copyright 2013Wikipedia Article on Four RosesWikipedia Article on the Language of FlowersWikipedia Article on the Pure Food and Drug ActWikipedia Article on V-J Day in Times SquareFour Roses History ArticleFour Roses History Article on SippingHistory.comDifford's Guide Listing for Four RosesContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram:

Episode 116 features Herbsaint. Bottled in 750ml at 50% ABV, or 100 proof and it retails for about $31.Enjoy this episode with an Herbsaint Frappe, or any cocktail that calls for absinthe.Herbsaint doesn't have it's own website, so here's the Sazerac listing: https://www.sazerac.com/our-brands/sazerac-brands/herbsaint.html Brief Historical Timeline:1914-18 - World War I and J. Marion Legendre 's friend Reginal P. Parker learns of pastis while stationed in Marseille, France 1920-33 - Post war, during Prohibition, Legendre and Parker make pastis in New Orleans1933 - Legendre introduces Legendre Absinthe in December, immediately following the repeal of Prohibition1934 - The Federal government forces Legendre to drop Absinthe from the name, Herbsaint is chosen as the replacement1949 - Legendre sells the brand and business to Sazerac & Company1950 - Sazerac changes the formulation, packaging and proof2009 - For the brand's 75th anniversary, Sazerac recreates the original recipe and resurrects the historical packaging, creating Legendre Herbsaint OriginalKey Cocktails:The Sazerac Cocktail is most widely cited, but it only uses Herbsaint as a rinse. Select an absinthe based cocktail as a better use for Herbsaint.References:Wayback Machine Archive Copy of The Virtual Absinthe Museum story of Herbsaint - This resource was invaluable in producing this episodeWikipedia Article on HerbsaintNew Orleans Absinthe HistoryImbibe Magazine Article Circa 2009Alcademics.com Article on the 75th Anniversary RelaunchSazerac House Recipe for the Sazerac Cocktail, featuring HerbsaintBarfaith.com ReviewContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/

Episode 115 features Tito's Handmade Vodka. Bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof and it retails for about $20.Enjoy this episode with some Tito's and soda with a lemon wedge.Tito's Handmade Vodka official website: https://www.titosvodka.com/ Brief Historical Timeline:1992 - Tito Beveridge begins making vodka infusions for his friends1995 - Tito applies for a distillery license1997 - First year of production yields about 1,000 9-liter equivalent cases2001 - Tito's wins a Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition2013 - United Airlines begins serving Tito's on all their flights2021 - 11,070,000 9-liter equivalent cases are sold, making Tito's the most popular distilled spirit brand in the USA, and providing enough for one 750ml bottle for each third person in the country2023 - Tito's runs a Superbowl commercial named Dry January that features Martha StewartKey Cocktails:Mix Tito's as you like.References:Eater Article on Tito'sWikipedia Article on Tito'sStatista Sales Volumes2022 Beverage Dynamics RankingGrain Volumes for Vodka Making2022 Corn Yields Per AcreYouTube Featuring Tito Speaking on Early FailuresYouTube Featuring Tito Telling the Origin StoryTito's Stories YouTube Videos (All 8 are referenced)Dry January Superbowl AdContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 114 features Jeppson's Malört. Bottled in 750ml at 35% ABV, or 70 proof and it retails for about $22.Enjoy this episode with a shot of Jeppson's Malört straight.Jeppson's Malört official website: https://www.jeppsonsmalort.com/ Brief Historical Timeline:1880s - Carl Jeppson immigrates to Chicago, Illinois, USA from Sweden1920s - Carl Jeppson begins making and selling door to door his own bask brännvin, later to be named Malört1933 - Carl Jeppson sells Malört to Bielzoff Products1945 - George Brode buys Bielzoff Products, eventually renaming the company Red Horse Liquors1953 - George Brode sells Red Horse Liquors, except for Malört1986 - Mar-Salle Distillery in Chicago, who had been making Malört since 1953, closes so production moves to Kentucky1999 - George Brode dies, leaving Jeppson's Malört to his friend and long-time secretary Patricia Gabelick2007 - The hastag #malortface catches on in Chicago with photos shared online2011 - Chicago comedian Sam Mechling begins promoting Malört on Twitter and Facebook, eventually raising the ire of Patricia Gabelick2012 - Sam Mechling officially joins the Carl Jeppson Company2018 - CH Distillery in Chicago buys the Carl Jeppson Company and Jeppson's Malört bringing production back to Chicago2020 - The brand was selling about 20,000 9-liter equivalent cases annually Key Cocktails:Don't mess around, you just take shots of Jeppson's Malört.References:Chicago Tribune Article on the History of Jeppson'sThrillist Facts ListFood and Wine ArticleSerious Eats ArticleYouTube Video Featuring Production at CH DistilleryYouTube Video Featuring an Interview with Sam MechlingYouTube Video: "Chicago's Grossest Drink, Explained"YouTube Video: "The Worst Liquor Ever"Contact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 113 features John D. Taylor's Velvet Falernum. Bottled in 750ml at 11% ABV, or 22 proof and it retails for about $22.Enjoy this episode with a pour of John D. Taylor's Velvet Falernum mixed in a tiki cocktail if you like.John D. Taylor's Velvet Falernum doesn't have a website I can find, so here's the US Importer's website: https://alpenz.com/product-falernum.htmlBrief Historical Timeline:Pre-1800s - Falernum is likely being made in Barbados on sugar estates alongside rum1821 - The first printed reference to Falernum is found1890 - John D. Taylor is said to have refined the Falernum recipe into this award-winning liqueur1934 - Falernum is used in tiki cocktails by Donn Beach at Don's Beachcomber1970s - Falernum is gone from the US market and global sales decline along with tiki1993 - R. L. Seale & Co. Ltd. purchases blender Alleyne Arthur who had previously purchased John D. Taylor, bring this version of Velvet Falernum under R. L. Seale & Co. Ltd.'s ownership2009 - Haus Alpenz begins importing John D. Taylor's Velvet Falernum into the USKey Cocktails:Try the Corn 'N Oil listed on the back label.Corn 'N Oil ½ oz. John D. Taylor's Velvet Falernum2 oz. Aged Barbados RumStir in an old-fashioned glass filled with ice. Garnish with a lime slice.References:Presentation by Richard Seal of R. L. Seale & Co. Ltd. on the history of FalernumWikipedia Article on FalernumDifford's Guide listing for John D. Taylor's Velvet FalernumJohn D. Taylor's Velvet Falernum Instagram AccountTeakwood Tavern Article on John D. Taylor's Velvet FalernumPunch Article on Rediscovering John D. Taylor's Velvet FalernumContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 112 features Cacique Guaro. Bottled in 365ml at 30% ABV, or 60 proof and it retails for about $3.Enjoy this episode with a pour of Cacique Guaro if you can find it.Cacique Guaro's official website: https://fanal.co.cr/ Brief Historical Timeline:1850 - Beverage alcohol production is nationalized in Costa Rica1853 - Fábrica Nacional De Licores, aka FANAL, is established and begins producing guaro1980 - FANAL brands Cacique Guaro and begins bottling it2015 - Cacique Guaro sells 1 million 9-liter equivalent casesKey Cocktails:Most Cacique Guaro is consumed mixed with fruit juice, or consumed neat. But, you can try this "fancy" version of a popular shot featuring Cacique Guaro.Chiliguaro (makes a batch to share)2 cups tomato juice⅔ cups Guaro - or as much as you want½ cup lime juice1 tbsp chopped onion1 tbsp chopped red pepper1 tbsp chopped cilantro½ tsp lizano sauce¼ tsp tabasco1 tsp sugar½ tsp salt½ tsp pepperBlend all the ingredients, strain and store in a glass bottle in the fridge. Serve very cold in shot glasses.References:Wikipedia Article on Cacique GuaroArticle on What is Cacique Guaro from the Tico TimesArticle on Giving Guaro a Second Sip from the Tico TimesThe National Drink of Cost RicaYouTube Video on the History of Guaro - In SpanishYouTube Factory TourCanadian Distributor's WebsiteContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 111 features Tia Maria. Bottled in 750ml at 26.5% ABV, or 53 proof and it retails for about $31.Enjoy this episode with a pour of Tia Maria on ice or in an Espresso Martini.Tia Maria's official website: https://www.tiamaria.com/ Brief Historical Timeline:1947 - Tia Maria is created with Dr. Kenneth Evans as the named founder 1980s - Hiram Walker acquires the brand2005 - Pernod Ricard ends up with Tia Maria through acquisitions2009 - Pernod Ricard sells Tia Maria to Illva Saronno Key Cocktails:Tia Maria is claimed to be the first coffee liqueur used in an Espresso Martini, so try it that way.Tia Espresso Martini25ml Tia Maria25ml VodkaSingle or Double Shot of Espresso3 coffee beans for garnishShake all ingredients with ice, double strain into a chilled Martini glass, garnish with three coffee beans.References:Wikipedia Article on Tia MariaDiffords Guide on Tia MariaPress Release on Pernod Ricard sale to Illva SaronnoPress Release on new bottle designCocktail-Society.com Article on Tia MariaTrade Focused Sales Sheet PDF, circa 2020Tia Maria's first TV Ad on YouTubeProduct Listing for Vanilla Beans Defining Bourbon VanillaContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 110 features Glayva. Bottled in 750ml at 35% ABV, or 70 proof and it retails for about $36.Enjoy this episode with a pour of Glayva neat.Glayva's official website: https://www.glayva.com/ Brief Historical Timeline:1947 - Ronald Morrison creates Glayva 1960s - Glayva begins to spread across the UK and around the globe1993 - Whyte & Mackay Ltd. acquire the brand2022 - Glayva wins yet another double gold at the IWSC Key Cocktails:Enjoy Glayva neat or over ice.References:My thanks to Whyte & Mackay Ltd. for answering questions I had about Glayva via email and helping to fill in some of the blank.Whyte & Mackay Ltd Listing for GlayvaScotsman.com Article on GlayvaScottish Dance Site with Historical BottlesGlayva.com Circa December 2004Telegraph.co.uk Article on Glayva (archived)Wikipedia Article on GlayvaWikipedia Article on LeithContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 109 features Gordon's London Dry Gin. Bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof and it retails for $12.Enjoy this episode with the late Queen's favorite cocktail, the Dubonnet.Gordon's official website: https://www.gordonsgin.com/Brief Historical Timeline:1769 - Alexander Gordon found his distillery in London 1786 - The distillery moves to Clerkenwell in London1823 - Alexander's son Charles takes over after a 7 year apprenticeship1877 or 1889 - The Gordon family sells to John Currie & Co.1898 - Gordon's merges with Tanqueray1904 - Gordon's begins being bottled in green glassCirca 1905 - Gordon's creates an export label and applies it to clear glass1924 - Gordon's introduces a line of pre-mixed cocktails1934 - Gordon's opens a distillery in New Jersey, USA1962 - Gordon's becomes the bet selling gin in the world1998 - Production of the UK and Europe moves to Fife, Scotland2021 - Annual case sales reached 7.4 million 9-liter equivalent casesKey Cocktails:Enjoy Gordon's in the classic Dubonnet Cocktail.1 part Gordon's Gin2 parts Dubonnet (French aperitif wine)Lemon Twist GarnishShake liquid ingredients with ice, strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a lemon twist.References:Wikipedia Article on Gordon'sDiageo Bar Academy ArticleDiageo Bar Academy History of Gordon'sThe Spirits Business Gordon's Brand HistoryWikipedia Article on the Gin CrazeWikipedia Article on Gin LaneThe Gin Guide Listing -includes list of botanicalsHello Magazine Article on The Queen's Favorite Gin Brand - it was Gordon'sThe Queen's Favorite Dubonnet CocktailThe Spirits Business Article on New Bottle Designs for Gordon'sContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram:

Episode 108 features Biodynamic Luna 1.1 from Waterford Whisky. Bottled in 750ml at 50% ABV, or 100 proof. This retails for $119. Enjoy this episode with any of the Waterford Whisky offers you can get your hands on!The official website for Waterford Whisky: https://waterfordwhisky.com/ Brief Historical Timeline:2004 - Diageo build the Waterford distillery site as a beer brewery2015 - Mark Reynier converts the closed brewery into a whisky distillery2016 - The first distillation goes into casks2020 - The first releases are made available from WaterfordKey Cocktails:Drink this neat. Add one or two cubes of ice if you like, but treat it as you would any good Single Malt.References:My interview with Neil Conway, Head Brewer for Waterford Whisky.Whiskey Magazine Interview with Mark ReynierBiodynamics Manure Horns Downloadable PDFMore detail on Manure Horns Prep and Biodynamic PrinciplesBiodynamics.com Principles and PracticesBook (pages 120-123): From Barley to Blarney - A Whiskey Lover's Guide to Ireland, presented by the Dead Rabbit, Sean Muldoon, Jack McGarry, Tim Herlihy, and Conor KellyContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 107 features Vestal Vodka, Polish Potato Vodka. Bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof. There are three options covered, the Unfiltered 2015 Vintage that retails for $28. Next is the standard or "white label" that retails for $20. Last is the Black Cherry that retails for $21.Enjoy this episode with any of the Vestal Vodkas you can get your hands on!The official website for Vestal Vodka: https://www.vestalvodka.com/ Brief Historical Timeline:Early 1990s - William Borrell's father buys a farm in Poland2009 - The Borrell's grow a crop of potatoes on their Polish farm and have it distilled into vodka2010 - This first version of their vodka earns a perfect score on Difford's Guide2020 - Halewood, a UK based spirits producer, purchases 48% of Vestal forming a partnership2021 - TotalWine begins distributing Vestal Vodka in the USA, including all of the available Unfiltered 2015 Vintage2022 - The brand is hitting it's stride, growing distribution while staying true to their traditional production methodsKey Cocktails:It depends upon which version of Vestal you're drinking, but for the Unfiltered 2015 Vintage, let its flavor shine. The standard or "white label" is well suited for any vodka cocktail. The Black Cherry? Use it for flavor, recommended to be mixed with Coke for an alcoholic Cherry Coke.References:My interview with William Borrell, founder of Vestal Vodka.Chilled Magazine Article on Vestal VodkaThe Spirits Business Article Featuring William BorrellThe Spirits Business Article on Halewood Partnering with VestalVice Article on Polish MoonshineThe Ladies & Gents BarInside Hook ReviewContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 106 features Myers's Rum - Original Dark from Jamaica. Bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof. It retails for $20.Enjoy this episode with a Myers's Planter's Punch!The official website for Myers's Rum: https://www.myerssrum.com/Brief Historical Timeline:1879 - Fred L. Myers founds the Myers's Rum brand1920s - The brand finds popularity as an inclusion in the Planter's Punch, adding this to their brand description1954 - Eustace Myers sells the brand to Seagram's2000 - Diageo acquires Myers's when Seagram's implodes2018 - The Sazerac Company acquires the brand from DiageoKey Cocktails:Try the Planter's Punch.1 part fresh squeeze lime juice2 parts simple syrup3 parts Myers's Original Dark Rum4 parts iceDash of bittersOrange wheel as garnishAdd all ingredients into a shaker, shake, then strain into a highball filled with fresh shaved ice. Garnish and serve.References:Sazerac Brand ListingOxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails Book ExcerptThe Fat Rum Pirate Myers's Rum ReviewRum Label Collection Website Featuring Myers's RumAnd a Bottle of Rum by Wayne CurtisContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 105 features Broken Shed Vodka from New Zealand. Bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof. It retails for $25.Enjoy this episode with some Broken Shed with a twist!The official website for Broken Shed: https://brokenshed.com/Brief Historical Timeline:2008 - Two Americans on sabbatical fall in love with the Wanaka region of New Zealand and move there permanently2009 - Broken Shed Vodka is born when the first two founders wonder why they're drinking imported vodka, and decide to make one in New Zealand2010 - After about a year of trials and tastings, Broken Shed Vodka is ready2012 - Broken Shed Vodka becomes available in the USA2022 - The brand closes in on 20,000 annual 9-liter equivalent case sales Key Cocktails:Let the vodka shine in a cocktail, try not to overpower it. Broken Shed Vodka also works really well for infusions.References:My interview with Mark Simmonds, Master Blender of Broken Shed Vodka along with materials provided by the brand.Huff Post Article from 2012Chilled Magazine Article on Broken ShedContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 104 features Maker's Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky. Bottled in 750ml at 45% ABV, or 90 proof. It retails for about $28.Enjoy this episode with a Maker's Mark Old Fashioned!The official website for Maker's Mark: https://www.makersmark.com/Brief Historical Timeline:1840 - T.W. Samuels erects the family's first commercial distillery in Kentucky1943 - Bill Samuels gets out of his family business, for awhile1953 - Bill Samuels founds Maker's Mark1958 - The first bottles of Maker's Mark are hand dipped in red sealing wax1973 - Maker's Mark hires Kentucky ad agency Doe Anderson1975 - Bill Samuels, Jr. becomes President and CEO of Maker's Mark1980 - Maker's Mark is featured on the front page of The Wall Street Journal1981 - Hiram Walker buys Maker's Mark2004 - A second still is added to increase production2005 - Pernod Ricard (who ended up with Maker's Mark through acquisitions) sells the brand to Fortune Brands, which would become part of Beam Suntory2011 - Maker's Mark sells 1 million 9-liter case equivalents for the first time2011 - Rob Samuels, grandson of the founder, takes over when his father Bill Samuels, Jr. retires2013 - Proof is reduced 3%, but only for a moment2015 - A $67 million investment includes a third still and new warehouses2019 - Maker's Mark sells 2.4 mill casesKey Cocktails:Use as you would any quality bourbon. I'm drinking it neat, but try it in an Old Fashioned or Manhattan.References:Book: Maker's Mark - My Autobiography by Bill Samuels, Jr. published in 2000Wikipedia Article on Maker's MarkBrand History Article on The Spirits BusinessDrink Spirits Story on Maker's Mark WhiskyMaker's Mark on The Spirits EducatorVinepair.com Article on Hops Used in ProductionVinepair.com Article on Maker' MarkDoe Anderson Ad Agency for Maker's MarkPress Release on Bill Samuels, Jr. Retiring via the Wayback MachineContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram:

Episode 103 features Ron Flor de Caña 12. Boxed and bottled, it's 750ml at 35% ABV, or 70 proof and was intended for the domestic Nicaraguan market. In the United States, this is sold at 40% ABV, or 80 proof and it retails for about $40.Enjoy this episode with a neat pour of Flor de Caña 12!The official website for Ron Flor de Caña 12: https://flordecana.com/Brief Historical Timeline:1875 - Alfredo Francisco Pellas Canessa immigrants to Nicaragua from Genoa, Italy1890 - Alfredo sets up a sugar plantation and the workers celebrate the harvest with some rum made on site 1937 - Flor de Caña is established as a brand1959 - Flor de Caña begins export sales in Central America1980s - The brand stockpiles aging rum, amassing the largest reserves of aged rum in the world1999 - Flor de Caña is sold to 40 countries and 5 continents worldwide2012 - Distillery tours begin, following investment2013 - The branding was updated including the bottles2017 - International Wine and Spirits Competition awarded the brand the Best Rum in the WorldKey Cocktails:This is a sipping rum for sure, just great on it's own. However, you may also want to try it in a rum Old Fashioned.References:Wikipedia Article on Flor de CañaBrand History YouTube VideoAn Older Brand History YouTube VideoBrand Ad on YouTubeDistillery Tour YouTube VideoProduction Video on YouTubeSpanish Language YouTube Video Purporting 80% is 12 Years Old RumWikipedia Article on NicaraguaWikipedia Article on Nicaraguan RevolutionThe Spirits Business Article on Packaging UpdatePress Release on Tree Planting CampaignContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 102 features Patrón Silver Tequila. Boxed and bottled in a handmade glass bottle that's 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof and it retails for $50.Enjoy this episode with a neat pour of Patrón Tequila!The official website for Patrón: https://www.patrontequila.com/Brief Historical Timeline:1989 - John Paul Dejoria and Martin Crowley wonder what the aristocrats in Mexico drink, Martin Crowley finds it at Casa Sieta Leguas1989 - John Paul Dejoria and Martin Crowley form the Patron Spirits Company, securing 100% of production from a distillery in Mexico, as well as the services of Francisco Alcaraz, who would become Master Distiller1991 - Patrón hold a blind tasting event at Spago in West Hollywood with a celebrity guest list2000 - Ed Brown is hired as CEO2002 - Patrón begins setting up their own production facility, what would become Hacienda Patrón2003 - Founder Martin Crowley dies, kicking off a 5 year legal battle for control of the brand2006 - Patrón reaches 1 million 9-liter equivalent case sales2008 - John Paul Dejoria acquires 70% of Patrón with Bacardi owning 30%2012 - Patrón reachs 2 million 9-liter equivalent case sales2018 - Bacardi buys John Paul Dejoria out of his stake in Patrón for $5.1 Billion USD2020 - Case sales are 3.1 millionKey Cocktails:Please try Patrón neat, then mix as you like in your favorite cocktails that call for tequila.References:The Patrón Way by Ilana Edelstein, published in 2013 with a forward by John Paul DejoriaJohn Paul Dejoria interview on YouTubeIlana Edelstein interview on YouTubeMercury News article from 2017 on the founders of PatrónWikipedia Article on PatrónWikipedia Article on John Paul DejoriaStatista Global Sales InformationForbes article "The Truth Behind Patrón's Tequila Empire (may require subscription)Bacardi Press Release on Purchase of PatrónBusiness Insider Video on How Patrón is MadePatrón YouTube Video on "60 Hands"Contact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram:

Episode 101 features Old Elk Distillery. Five different bottlings are noted, with a tasting from the Blended Straight Bourbon Whiskey that is bottled in 750ml at 44% ABV, or 88 proof and it retails for $45.Enjoy this episode with a neat pour of any Old Elk product!The official website for Old Elk: https://www.oldelk.com/ Brief Historical Timeline:1880 - Brand is originally created1888 - Old Elk Trademark is registered by Stoll, Vanatta & CoProhibition Years - Old Elk is produced by Stitzel Distillery as a "medicinal spirit"Post Prohibition - Stitzel-Weller Distillery continues production of Old Elk, without the "medicinal" moniker1972 - Brand is sold to Norton-Simon who abandons it2013 - Entrepreneur Curt Richardson resurrects the Old Elk brand, acquiring the trademark2013 - Greg Metze creates a custom mash bill for Old Elk's signature bourbon2017 - Old Elk launches in Colorado and California2021 - Annual sales of about $16 millionKey Cocktails:Old Elk is perfect neat, right out of the bottle. You can mix it or chill it if you like.References:Most of the content for this episode came from an interview and tasting conducted with Greg Metze, Master Distiller for Old Elk.MGP IngredientsEarly Brand History from Bourbon VeachArticle on Greg Metze from Gear PatrolBourbon Lens Overview of Old Elk DistilleryContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/Twitter: @LLConnoisseur