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Amanda Humphrey takes us behind the scenes at Star Hill Farm, home of Maker's Mark, where tradition meets innovation across 1,100 acres of working farmland. We explore how this iconic bourbon brand is pioneering sustainable practices while maintaining their founder's vision through innovative wood-finishing techniques and an uncompromising commitment to flavor.

• Amanda's journey from London bartender to Maker's Mark advocacy and experience leader
• The importance of terroir in bourbon and how 86% of ingredients come from the local area
• Using 55 beehives, Wagyu cattle, and a truffle-hunting dog to create a self-sustaining farm
• How the Heritage Collection and wood-finishing series evolved from Maker's classic profile
• The significance of the Maker's Mark stamp and its connection to pewter craftsmanship
• Creating the world's first genetically sequenced oak tree to preserve American white oak
• Seven unique Star Hill Farm experiences beyond the traditional distillery tour
• Women's growing leadership presence throughout the bourbon industry

Visit makermark.com to explore the immersive experiences at Star Hill Farm and discover their latest wood-finishing releases.

Step onto the hallowed grounds of Star Hill Farm with us as Amanda Humphrey reveals the magic behind Maker's Mark's 1,100-acre whiskey wonderland. From the moment we sit at the founders' original kitchen table—where the iconic bourbon was first conceived through bread recipes—we're immersed in a world where tradition and innovation dance together in perfect harmony.

Amanda's journey from London bartender to Maker's Mark advocate embodies the global appeal of this distinctly Kentucky brand. Her passion for the distillery's sustainable practices illuminates how Maker's Mark has evolved from a single expression to a portfolio that honors its wheated bourbon DNA while exploring new dimensions of flavor through wood science.

What sets Star Hill Farm apart isn't just what goes into the bottle—it's the holistic ecosystem they've created. With 55 bee boxes producing honey for cocktails, Katahdin sheep maintaining the soil, a Wagyu cattle program finished on spent grain, and even a truffle-hunting Lagotto dog named Star, this is bourbon production reimagined as regenerative agriculture. "Bourbon is an agricultural product, it's nature distilled," Amanda explains, revealing how 86% of ingredients consumed on-site come from the immediate area.

Perhaps most remarkable is Maker's Mark's 200-year vision for environmental stewardship. They've established the world's largest white oak research forest and created the first genetically sequenced American white oak tree in history—a living library of 540 million pairs of DNA that will inform conservation efforts for generations to come.

We taste through their latest innovations, including the just-about-to-be-released Keeper's Release from their wood-finishing series, which showcases the expertise of their warehouse team with notes of honey, butterscotch, and cinnamon French toast. Yet even as they innovate, that distinctive Maker's Mark profile remains the north star.

Whether you're a bourbon aficionado or simply curious about sustainable spirits production, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into how one of America's most beloved bourbon brands is creating flavors rooted in place while safeguarding the future of whiskey making. Listen now and discover why Star Hill Farm isn't just making bourbon—it's crafting a legacy that will endure for centuries.

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The legacy of Elmer T. Lee lives on through his namesake single barrel bourbon, where we compare the newest 2025 release with a 2019 bottle to explore how this iconic whiskey maintains its high standards over time.

• Elmer T. Lee was Buffalo Trace's fourth master distiller who revolutionized bourbon by launching Blanton's in 1984 as the first modern single barrel bourbon
• The 2025 Elmer T. Lee delivers exceptional nose with caramel, vanilla, and oak notes, scoring 15/18 in our barrel bottle breakdown
• Comparing 2019 vs 2025 releases shows the newer bottle has more pronounced flavors while the older release has mellowed into an easier-drinking experience
• Elmer sought bourbon with vanilla notes, smooth taste, and no harsh aftertaste – qualities still present in today's releases
• At 90 proof, Elmer T. Lee drinks well above its proof point with excellent viscosity and flavor complexity
• Both releases showcase classic bourbon characteristics with the 2025 bringing more vibrant, attention-commanding flavors

Join us on our Kentucky distillery tour as we visit Maker's Mark and Jack Daniel's in the coming days, with live updates planned throughout the journey.

The enduring legacy of bourbon pioneer Elmer T. Lee takes center stage as we crack open the new 2025 release of his namesake single barrel bourbon. This exploration celebrates the man who revolutionized the industry by introducing Blanton's in 1984 as the first modern single barrel bourbon brand.

The 2025 Elmer T. Lee immediately impresses with an exceptional nose that evokes vintage, dusty bourbons—rich caramel, perfect vanilla balance, and just the right amount of oak with zero ethanol burn. At 90 proof, this bourbon drinks well above its strength, offering remarkable complexity and a viscosity that creates beautiful, long-lasting legs in the glass. The flavor profile delivers everything Elmer himself sought when selecting barrels: pronounced vanilla-forward notes, smooth mouthfeel, and a balanced finish without harsh burn.

What makes this tasting particularly fascinating is the side-by-side comparison with a 2019 bottle. While both expressions showcase the classic Elmer T. Lee character, the 2025 release presents more vibrant, attention-commanding flavors, while the 2019 has mellowed into an exceptionally smooth, approachable pour. This comparison highlights the subtle variations between single barrels selected years apart, while confirming the consistent quality standards established by the master distiller himself.

Through rare interview footage, we hear Elmer describe his selection process in his own words, providing invaluable context for appreciating his bourbon legacy. For anyone fortunate enough to secure a bottle at its retail price of approximately $80, this expression delivers exceptional value and a direct connection to bourbon history. Whether you're new to bourbon or a seasoned enthusiast, Elmer T. Lee continues to represent everything special about Kentucky's native spirit.

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This episode dives into everything March means for bourbon lovers, exploring the unique dynamics between whiskey releases and the excitement of basketball season, dubbed "March Madness." We also touch on the anticipation within the Ohio whiskey community around recent drops and the impact of Irish whiskey during the festive season.

• Discussing why March is such a pivotal month for whiskey enthusiasts
• Overview of major bourbon releases and anticipated drops
• Celebrating the vibrant bourbon community in Ohio
• Exploring the crossover between whiskey and Irish spirits
• Tasting reviews of Fercullen 15 and Augusta bourbons
• Engaging discussions on the idyllic world of whiskey camaraderie

As March kicks off, it's a thrilling time for bourbon enthusiasts and whiskey lovers alike. This month signifies not just the excitement of basketball tournaments but the unveiling of new whiskey releases that elevate the spirits community's experience. Picture this: long-awaited bottles like Elmer T. Lee and Weller 12 suddenly becoming available on the shelves. Each purchase is a little victory, a shared celebration among fellow bourbon enthusiasts, and a reflection of the thriving community spirit.

In this episode, we delve deep into the essence of March Madness within the whiskey world. We highlight the excitement surrounding the newest releases, with some of the most sought-after bourbons dropping as we enter this dynamic month. But it's not just bourbon that gets a spotlight; Irish whiskey is also making its presence known with the upcoming St. Patrick's Day festivities. Through the exploration of flavors, tasting notes, and personal experiences, we invite listeners to appreciate the artistry of both whiskey categories and the stories they carry.

Join us as we share insights into notable tasting experiences of the Fercullen 15 and Augusta bourbons and their unique backgrounds. You'll hear their tasting profiles, along with our thoughts and recommendations regarding these exquisite selections. Plus, we discuss how March is increasingly becoming synonymous not only with basketball madness but also with endless bourbon delights, fostering connections and friendship among the whiskey community.

Ultimately, we encourage listeners to engage actively. We invite bourbon lovers to share their thoughts, experiences, and favorite pours for this lively month. Let’s celebrate the joys of great whiskey and the bonds that come with it! Ready to sip and enjoy? Listen in and raise a glass with us!

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