
About this episode
Bourbon has a rich history but if you're drinking bourbon right now, you're not doing it because you just found out that a new category like single barrel was created. There are many moments that have now defined modern bourbon culture that have exponentially grown the category in the past 20 years. In this episode, Ryan, Fred, and myself come with a list of moments that we dive into and give our thoughts on what this meant. Some things we hit on are the high-end releases of Willett and the Antique Collection that spur super enthusiasts, how Maker's made national headlines from a proof change, and how social media has changed the landscape forever.
Show Notes:
Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about the future of Bardstown Bourbon Company.
What did Four Roses do to help build bourbon?
What started the hyper whiskey geek attitude?
What special releases changed the landscape of bourbon?
How did Brown Forman take Woodford and Old Forester and resurrect the brands?
Did the proof debacle from Maker's make a big moment?
When did the bourbon media or message boards start making an impact?
How did secondary markets on facebook boost the category?
Do we feel something like Mad Men was a pivotal moment?
Pappygate took national headlines
How was Marianne being named the first woman master distillery play a role?
What lawsuits defined it?
Support this podcast on Patreon
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Get every episode summarized
Each time Bourbon Pursuit publishes, we email you a written briefing from the transcript — the topics, who appeared, and any specific claims, with the ad reads skipped.
Email me new episodesFree for 3 shows. No card needed.
No transcript yet
This episode has not been transcribed. Request it and it moves to the front of the queue.
More episodes
More from Bourbon Pursuit

TWiB: The KY ABC auctions off confiscated bourbon, The New Era Whiskey Distiller...
Bourbon Pursuit
Sep 11, 202639:45pending

583 - PursuitPalooza 2026 AMA Part 1
Bourbon Pursuit
Sep 10, 20261:12:56pending

Whiskey Quickie: Maker’s Mark Goes Full Dessert Mode?!
Bourbon Pursuit
Sep 8, 20265:34failed

TWiB: Kentucky Bourbon Boys launches KBB Reserve, American Whiskey Scholars prog...
Bourbon Pursuit
Sep 4, 202634:15failed