Bourbon Lens

In this episode of Thursday Thoughts, Jake Lewellen breaks down everything you need to know about bourbon—America’s native spirit. From its deep-rooted history and the origins of its name to the lasting impact of the Bottled and Bond Act of 1897 and the disruption caused by Prohibition, this episode covers it all. Jake explains the strict legal standards that define bourbon, including mash bills, aging requirements, and what “straight bourbon” really means. He also dives into common bourbon flavor profiles and shares approachable tasting tips for beginners and seasoned drinkers alike. Whether you enjoy bourbon neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, this episode celebrates drinking bourbon your way while honoring the tradition behind the glass.Subscribe🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community. Keep this at the bottom📸 Follow on Instagram: ⁨@bourbonlens⁩🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.comDiscord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSUHashtags#Bourbon #AmericanWhiskey #BottledInBond #BourbonHistory #WhiskeyEducation #BourbonTasting #StraightBourbon #WhiskeyPodcast #BourbonLens #ThursdayThoughtsKey TakeawaysBourbon is America’s native spirit with a rich historical legacyThe Bottled and Bond Act of 1897 was the first U.S. consumer protection lawBourbon must be made from at least 51% cornBourbon is aged in new, charred oak barrelsProhibition caused many historic distilleries to shut downStraight bourbon must be aged for a minimum of two yearsCorn-heavy mash bills give bourbon its signature sweetnessDifferent mash bills create diverse flavor profilesThere’s no wrong way to drink bourbon—enjoy it your waySoundbites“Aged in new charred oak barrels.”“Drink it however you want!”“Tell us how you like to drink it!”Keywordsbourbon, whiskey, American spirit, bottled in bond act, prohibition, bourbon history, bourbon flavor profiles, bourbon tasting tips, straight bourbon, American whiskey education

In this episode of The Bourbon Lens, hosts Jake and Scott dive headfirst into what 2026 could mean for the bourbon industry. From production pauses at major distilleries to the continued rise of craft producers and non-distilling producers (NDPs), the guys explore how shifting market dynamics are reshaping bourbon as we know it.They break down why sustainability and intentional production matter more than ever, how consumer preferences are evolving toward fewer but higher-quality releases, and why experiential whiskey events and bourbon festivals will be critical for brands looking to stand out. Along the way, Jake and Scott also reflect on personal goals, creating lasting memories, and the role whiskey clubs and communities play in keeping bourbon culture thriving.Whether you’re a casual drinker, a serious collector, or someone curious about where bourbon is headed next, this episode offers thoughtful insight into the future of whiskey in 2026 and beyond.Subscribe🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community.📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com💬 Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSUHashtags#Bourbon #BourbonPodcast #Whiskey #WhiskeyPodcast #Bourbon2026 #CraftDistillery #BourbonIndustry #WhiskeyCommunity #NDP #BourbonTrends #AmericanWhiskey #BourbonCultureKey Takeaways2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for the bourbon industryProduction pauses signal a push toward sustainability and long-term planningCraft distilleries are gaining momentum, especially at the regional levelNDPs must innovate through blending, storytelling, and unique offeringsExperiential engagement will be a major driver for bourbon brandsConsumer demand is shifting toward fewer, higher-quality releasesPricing and availability continue to influence buying behaviorBourbon festivals and shared experiences strengthen communityPersonal growth and intentional living are recurring themes for the hostsThe bourbon industry remains cyclical, with trends constantly evolvingSoundbites“2026 is upon us.”“The hardest working still in bourbon.”“Fewer, bigger, better.”KeywordsBourbon, Bourbon Podcast, Whiskey Podcast, Bourbon 2026, Craft Distilleries, NDPs, Non Distilling Producers, Whiskey Production, Bourbon Industry Trends, Bourbon Festivals, Whiskey Community, American Whiskey, Personal Growth, Bourbon Market

In this episode of The Bourbon Lens, Jake Lewellen takes a closer look at New Riff’s Balboa Rye 95.5, a standout rye whiskey that showcases the distillery’s continued innovation and quality. Jake breaks down the tasting notes, highlighting a creamy, fruity nose followed by a balanced palate of sugary citrus and peppery rye spice.This rye delivers a smooth yet flavorful experience, making it an excellent pour to kick off the year. Beyond the glass, Jake discusses why New Riff is a distillery to watch in 2026, pointing to their creative releases, thoughtful mash bills, and increasing use of older age statements that continue to elevate their portfolio.If you’re a rye whiskey fan or curious about emerging trends in American whiskey, this episode is a must-listen.Subscribe🔔 Subscribe for more weekly discussions, tastings, and bourbon insights from the Bourbon Lens community.📸 Follow on Instagram: @bourbonlens🌐 Visit: www.bourbonlens.com💬 Discord: https://discord.gg/pd6ys5nRSUHashtags#NewRiff #BalboaRye #RyeWhiskey #WhiskeyReview #BourbonLens #WhiskeyPodcast #AmericanWhiskey #CraftDistillery #WhiskeyTasting #RyeReview #BourbonCommunityKey TakeawaysNew Riff Balboa Rye 95.5 delivers a creamy, fruity, and well-balanced rye profileThe nose offers soft fruit and cream notesThe palate balances sugary citrus with classic rye pepper spiceBalboa Rye 95.5 is an approachable yet flavorful rye whiskeyNew Riff continues to stand out through innovation and qualityOlder age statements position New Riff as a distillery to watch in 2026Soundbites“A creamy, fruity rye that really stands out.”“This is a great way to start the year.”“New Riff is absolutely one to watch in 2026.”KeywordsNew Riff, Balboa Rye 95.5, Rye Whiskey Review, New Riff Distillery, Rye Whiskey, American Rye, Craft Whiskey, Whiskey Podcast, Whiskey Tasting Notes, Bourbon Lens, Whiskey 2026 Trends

In this episode of The Bourbon Lens Podcast, Jake and Scott welcome Jay West, widely known in the bourbon community as T8ke, and now the Principal Whiskeymaker at Middleburg Barrel Company. Jay joins the show to discuss his unique path through the whiskey world—from the early days of Reddit’s r/bourbon community, to his work with Whiskey Raiders, and into his current role shaping Middleburg’s growing portfolio of American whiskey.The conversation explores how Jay’s years as a whiskey critic and reviewer helped refine his palate and approach to barrel selection and blending. Jake, Scott, and Jay discuss Middleburg Barrel Company’s current releases, including The Reveries and Provenance Bourbon, and how Jay balances creativity, deep bourbon knowledge, and practical grit when building a whiskey brand in today’s competitive market.Jay also shares insight into his long-term vision for Middleburg Barrel Company, plans to expand the portfolio, and what it takes to transition from evaluating whiskey to actively creating it. Throughout the episode, listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at modern independent whiskey making through the lens of one of the most respected palates in American bourbon.About Jay West (T8ke):Jay West is a multifaceted spirits professional with a foundation rooted in years of experience as a professional critic and spirits writer, having reviewed thousands of whiskeys from around the world. He has been featured in major lifestyle and spirits-focused publications such as Gear Patrol, Men’s Health, Bourbon Pursuit, The Bourbon Life Podcast, The RumCast, and more. Through his work, Jay has established himself as a trusted voice in the industry, providing insight and expertise that resonate with both casual enthusiasts and seasoned connoisseurs.Jay’s expertise in barrel selection and blending has made him a sought-after figure in the whiskey community. Beyond his writing, he has collaborated with leading distilleries, brands, and industry professionals—including Beam Suntory and Diageo—to curate and create exclusive bottlings rooted in innovation. These releases have earned critical acclaim nationwide, showcasing his keen palate and ability to craft compelling whiskey experiences.In his latest venture, Jay now lends his curation talents as Principal Whiskeymaker at Middleburg Barrel Company, makers of Provenance Bourbon. In this role, he oversees barrel selection and blending, ensuring each release meets the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.

In this episode of The Bourbon Lens Podcast, Jake and Scott welcome Kevin Aslan of Hotaling & Co., Head Distiller/Blender for Old Potrero, and a longtime friend of the show. The conversation spans two shared passions—gin and rye whiskey—and highlights what makes Old Potrero one of the most distinctive producers in American whiskey. Jake and Scott dive into Kevin's and Scott's mutual love of gin, including a discussion of Junipero Gin and its lineup, exploring how botanical balance and unique gin prodction resonates with modern drinkers. The conversation then shifts to Old Potrero's approach to rye whiskey, focusing on its use of 100% malted rye grain, a style that sets the distillery apart from traditional rye producers. The group discusses the Old Potrero 6 Year Old Toasted Barrel Malted Rye Whiskey, examining how toasted oak influences sweetness, spice, and mouthfeel. The episode wraps with a tasting and deeper discussion of an allocated Old Potrero Cellar Series release—the Toasted Barrel Rye Whiskey finished in Gundlach Bundschu Gewürztraminer barrels. Kevin shares insight into how wine finishing, barrel selection, and malted rye interact to create layered, expressive whiskey, while Jake and Scott reflect on how these finishes expand the conversation around American rye. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform, and if you enjoy what you hear, we'd love for you to leave us a review. 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. You can follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X. Want to go a step further? Support us on Patreon for exclusive behind-the-scenes content, Bourbon Lens swag, access to our Tasting Club, and more. Have questions, feedback, or guest suggestions? Drop us a line at [email protected]. Explore BourbonLens.com for blog posts, the latest whiskey news, our full podcast archive, and detailed whiskey reviews. Cheers, Scott & Jake Bourbon Lens