Not Another Whisky Podcast is your gateway to the whisky world, hosted by industry veterans Mitch Bechard and Daryl Haldane. With four decades of combined experience within the whisky industry for giants like Highland Park, Glenfiddich, Macallan, Johnnie Walker, Talisker, and Lagavulin, these guys know their stuff - and they're ready to share the insider secrets and stories that don't make it onto the distillery tours.
This is an informal show where you can learn about whisky without the stuffy attitude. Expect whisky facts, the latest news, terrible whisky jokes, and candid conversations with industry guests. No pretence, just a good chat about great whisky!
Do you have a story to share, or are you curious about sponsoring the show? Drop us a line at whiskypodcast@gmail.com. And don't forget to peek into our mischievous antics on Instagram @notanotherwhiskypodcast or swing by www.notanotherwhiskypodcast.com
Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/not-another-whisky-podcast.
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Not Another Whisky Podcast is your gateway to the whisky world, hosted by industry veterans Mitch Bechard and Daryl Haldane. With four decades of combined experience within the whisky industry for giants like Highland Park, Glenfiddich, Macallan, Johnnie Walker, Talisker, and Lagavulin, these guys know their stuff - and they're ready to share the insider secrets and stories that don't make it onto the distillery tours.
This is an informal show where you can learn about whisky without the stuffy attitude. Expect whisky facts, the latest news, terrible whisky jokes, and candid conversations with industry guests. No pretence, just a good chat about great whisky!
Do you have a story to share, or are you curious about sponsoring the show? Drop us a line at whiskypodcast@gmail.com. And don't forget to peek into our mischievous antics on Instagram @notanotherwhiskypodcast or swing by www.notanotherwhiskypodcast.com
Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/not-another-whisky-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Mitch goes it alone and visits the brand new Eden Mill Distillery in Guardbridge, just a stone’s throw from the historic town of St Andrews, where he catches up with the Brand Home Manager, Euan Kinninmonth.
Set on the banks of the stunning Eden Estuary (with views toward the iconic St Andrews skyline), Eden Mill blends rich heritage with bold modern innovation. Euan guides Mitch through the distillery’s dual focus on both gin and whisky — from their award-winning coastal gins (including botanicals sourced from the local Fife landscape) to their rapidly evolving single-malt whisky programme.
But there’s more than production to explore: the new visitor centre opens up a next-level experience, featuring a top-floor cocktail bar overlooking the estuary, and yes — a golf simulator (naturally, given the proximity to the home of golf) built right into the distillery experience.
Tune in to find out how Eden Mill is creating spirits with a sense of place, embracing sustainability (including running on renewable electricity) and carving out a distinctive voice in the Lowland whisky scene.
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This week Mitch and Daz sit down with Sullivans Cove CEO, Andy Gaunt, they chat all thing Tasmanian whisky and get to try their new 25 year old (the oldest 'New World' whisky to hit the market.)
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Join Mitch and the legendary Alan Winchester, with over five decades of experience in the whisky world, as they dive into the rich history and stories behind Aberlour. Recorded at the cozy Quaich Bar in the Craigellachie Hotel, the episode covers Alan's illustrious career, his firsthand experiences at Aberlour, and his latest adventures from safari trips in South Africa to whisky shows in Johannesburg and Cape Town. Alan shares fascinating insights about the history of Aberlour Distillery, the use of the Solera method, and the upcoming new distillery project.
The duo also tastes three exclusive travel retail Aberlour expressions—the 13-year-old Double Cask Matured, the Suthainn, and the 16-year-old Double Charred—while amusing listeners with ghost stories and whisky trivia.
For more information on aber travel retail exclusives visit : https://www.aberlour.com/en/
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In this episode of 'Not Another Whisky Podcast,' Daz dives into the world of traditional whisky-making at the soon to be completed Kythe Distillery. Daz visits the distillery to caht with co-founders Jonny McMillan and Angus MacRaild. They discuss their passion for old-style whisky and the journey that led them to establish their distillery in the scenic Perthshire area. From using floor-malted barley to direct fire stills, find out why they are dedicated to recreating the quality and character of vintage whisky. Tune in to hear about their innovative and authentic approach to distillation, the challenges they face, and their plans for future production.
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In this episode host Mitch Bechard dives into the intriguing world of whisky and murder mysteries with author Natalie Jane Clark, discussing her debut novel 'The Malt Whisky Murders.' They chat about everything from the novel's inspiration, set in Campbelltown's rich whisky history, to Natalie’s personal whisky journey, and her writing process. The conversation touches on how whisky lovers have embraced her book, with nods to distilleries like Benromach and Bruichladdich. Tune in for tastings, murder plots, and what might be brewing for her next book.
00:00 Introduction to 'The Malt Whisky Murders'
00:46 Meet the Author: Natalie Jane Clark
01:51 Natalie's Journey into Whisky
05:00 The Inspiration Behind the Novel
09:31 Crafting the Distillery Setting
12:53 Character Development and Tasting Notes
17:08 Writing Process and Neurodivergence
17:40 Diving into Obsessions and Research
18:36 Writing Process and Techniques
20:36 Securing the Book Deal
21:24 Pitching at Bloody Scotland
26:16 Whisky Community's Response
29:34 Future Projects and Quick Fire Round
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In this episode of Not Another Whisky podcast, Mitch dives solo into the fascinating world of global travel retail and its impact on the Scotch whisky industry. Joined by special guest Andrew Bardsley, Global Director of Prestige at Pernod Ricard, they explore the importance of airport whisky shelves, the allure of travel-exclusive releases, and the exciting new Aberlour range. Andrew shares insights from his 20+ years in the spirits business, detailing how travel retail has evolved and why it's a critical shop window for whisky brands. They discuss everything from consumer behavior, the role of brand ambassadors, and the growth of whisky in Asian markets, to the challenges posed by economic factors and tariffs.
00:00 Introduction to the Episode
00:19 Exploring Global Travel Retail
01:33 Special Guest: Andrew Bardsley
03:07 Andrew's Role and Experience
05:42 Understanding the Travel Retail Market
06:48 Investment in Travel Retail
09:45 Consumer Engagement and Demographics
12:54 Avalara's Travel Retail Range
16:20 Global Trends and Market Changes
18:58 Insights on Consumer Data
20:20 Boutiques in Travel Retail
22:30 Creating Memorable Consumer Experiences in Airports
24:03 The Importance of Asia in Travel Retail
26:02 Travel Retail as a Test Bed for Whisky
28:57 Engaging Whisky Enthusiasts and Broader Audiences
32:37 Future of Travel Retail
36:12 Scotch Whisky vs. Other Spirits in Travel Retail
39:34 Personal Whisky Preferences and Stories
41:23 Favorite Airports and Consumer Behavior Insights
43:23 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Whisky Launches
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In this week’s banter-fuelled episode of Not Another Whisky Podcast, Mitch Bechard and Daz Haldane take you on a whirlwind journey through whisky news, wild tangents, and plenty of laughs.
The chat kicks off with an unexpected detour into the world of airline pilots (blame Charlie Sheen’s new Netflix show), before the lads swap stories from their recent whisky escapades. Mitch shares tales from his whirlwind whisky tours across Scotland, while Daz reflects on highlights from Distillers One of One and his induction into the prestigious Keepers of the Quaich.
From there, it’s a rapid-fire run through some of the hottest updates in whisky right now:
And to round things off, the guys give a proper nod to Glencairn’s legacy in whisky drinking—with a few hilarious stories from their chat with Sales Manager Darren McGinn.
This episode’s got a dram for everyone.
00:00 Pilot Dreams and Airline Responsibilities
00:51 Netflix and TV Show Recommendations
01:45 Welcome to the Podcast
03:00 Whisky Adventures and Busy Schedules
03:54 Distillery Visits and Upcoming Events
07:05 Johnnie Walker Partnership and Celebrity News
09:09 Rowing Across Oceans for Charity
13:10 Ardbeg Hotel Opens in Islay
14:58 Coleburn Distillery Plans
17:58 Sarah Burgess' New Role
19:34 GlenCairns 25th Anniversary
35:28 Billy Walker's GlenAllachie Release
38:37 Whisky and Cigar Stories
40:09 Final Thoughts
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In this episode Mitch & Daz explore the Distillers One of One event, a biennial charity auction that has raised over £4.3 million since 2021 for Scotland's Youth Action Fund. The special guest, Beanie Espy, Managing Director of Distillers Ventures Limited, delves into her role and the complexities of organizing such an immense undertaking. Highlights include a sneak peek at the exclusive one-off whisky bottles to be auctioned, such as the Laphroaig 40 capsule and Port Ellen Prism. Beanie also discusses the philanthropic impact of the event and shares inspiring stories of young people whose lives have been transformed by the funds raised. Alongside logistical tales.
https://www.distillersoneofone.com/
00:00 Welcome to the Distillers One of One Event
00:33 Meet Beanie Espy: The Heart of the Auction
01:08 Record-Breaking Whiskeys of 2023
02:42 The Role of Managing Director: Beanie's Journey
03:57 The Complexity and Success of the Auction
12:37 The Impact of the Youth Action Fund
18:39 Looking Forward: Future Auctions and Goals
20:32 The Excitement of the Live Auction
23:01 Event Overview and Global Participation
23:18 London Watch Party and Other Live Streams
24:43 Discussion on La Freud 40 Capsule
25:19 Details of the La Freud 40-Year-Old Whiskey
27:15 Auction Preparations and Tastings
29:03 Interest and Conversations Around the Auction
37:40 Sotheby's Exhibition and Public Viewing
39:20 Charitable Impact and Industry Collaboration
42:56 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks
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This week Mitch sits down with Scott Sneddon, Managing Director (Distilling) at InchDairnie Distillery in Fife, for a deep dive into one of Scotland’s most innovative whisky makers.
They chat about RyeLaw, InchDairnie’s bold rye whisky, and the newly released KinGlassie 8-year-old single malts. Expect plenty of geekery along the way – from hammer mills to mash filters – as Scott lifts the lid on what makes InchDairnie tick.
Daz also makes a brief appearance (well, sort of… let’s just say his Wi-Fi didn’t get the memo).
If you’re into Scotch whisky innovation, rye whisky experiments, and the future of single malt from Fife, this one’s for you.
Find out more about InchDairnie Distillery
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Mitch & Daz reunite after a long break, joking about their beards and upcoming haircuts. They delve into recent whisky experiences, including rare tastings in London, distillery visits, and notable birthdays. They chat on the news including - oldest single malt release, changes in personnel at major distilleries, and adventurous charity rows across the Pacific with the Maclean Brothers. Additionally, the episode features an chat with Fraser Morrison and his participation in the 'Easiest Whisky Quiz in the World,' along with discussions on upcoming whisky-related events and personal anecdotes from recent travels.
00:00 Catching Up After a Long Break
00:53 Whiskey Tastings and London Adventures
01:45 Birthday Celebrations and Distillery Visits
10:45 Camping Trips and West Coast Travels
15:56 Introducing Fraser Morrison and the Easiest Whiskey Quiz
19:16 Whiskey Quiz Challenge
20:49 Fraser's High Score and Leaderboard Announcement
21:51 Whiskey Market Updates
22:52 Oldest Single Malt Whiskey Release
26:35 Highland Park Distillery News
28:54 Raasay Distillery Expansion
33:12 McLean Brothers' Pacific Row and Charity Whiskey
38:14 Edinburgh Fringe and Whiskey Events
40:44 Upcoming Episodes and Farewell
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In this lively episode of Not Another Whisky Podcast, recorded at the Craigellachie Hotel, Mitch introduces three special guests: David Stirk of North Star Spirits, Pete Allison of Woven, and Greg Urqhart from Gleann Mór. The attendees delve into the fascinating world of independent whiskey bottlers. Each guest shares their unique perspective, experiences, and prized whisky with the audience. The discussion ranges from the challenges and rewards of independent bottling to the evolution of whisky consumption trends. Amid jest and camaraderie, the panel explores blending, the marketability of aged whisky, and gives advice for aspiring bottlers. The audience participates by voting for their favorite dram, crowning the winner as ....well wait untill the end to find out!
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Join us on the latest episode as Daz chats with Boris and Sebastian from the Wu Dram Clan. These gents are not just about business; they’re all about passion for spirits, from whisky to cognac and rum. Starting in 2018, they've gone on some wild adventures, from Munich beer gardens to Black Forest weather, and all the way to the Caribbean for some authentic rum education. Learn about their unique partnerships with big distilleries, their collector habits, and the insider scoop on rare whisky and rum bottles. This episode is a deep dive into the world of spirits that transcend mere drinking. Tune in for some quirky stories, geeky collector talk, and a sneak peek into their upcoming ventures!
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In this episode of Not Another Whiskey Podcast, Mitch and Daz are joined by Bari Reid, the wizard behind some of the UK's trendiest and most head-turning whisky distilleries. Bari spills the beans on his journey from sketching houses to crafting epic distilleries, all while dealing with sustainability buzzkills and client fantasies. They chat about everything from the highs and lows of glass gables to why designing distilleries can be like herding cats.
And just when Bari thought he'd dodged a bullet, he's thrown into the hot seat for the World's Easiest Whisky Quiz. Spoiler alert: it's not that easy. Tune in for laughs, insights, and a peek into the wild world of distillery design.
00:00 Introduction and Banter
00:24 Meet Barry Reed: The Distillery Designer
02:29 Barry's Journey into Architecture and Whiskey
04:17 Challenges and Rewards of Designing Distilleries
09:27 Balancing Client Ambitions with Practicality
11:21 Cost and Feasibility of Building Distilleries
17:45 Trends and Aesthetics in Distillery Design
24:26 The Unique Appeal of Ula Distillery
25:50 Unexpected Architectural Marvels
27:01 Sustainability in Distillery Design
28:01 Challenges and Innovations in Energy Use
29:20 Balancing Tradition and Modernity
34:50 The Role of AI in Architectural Design
38:18 Dream Distillery Projects
43:51 The World's Easiest Whiskey Quiz
46:01 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information
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This week, we sit down with Alex Munch — Co-founder and Chief Mischief Officer (well, technically Chief Marketing Officer) at Stauning Whisky, Denmark’s trailblazing distillery that put Danish whisky on the map.
We dive into life after Distill Ventures, the shifting gears of independence, and why the team is now steering Stauning back to its roots. Expect candid chat about scaling back to move forward, embracing tradition with a modern twist, and what the future holds for one of Europe’s most innovative (and stubbornly Danish) distilleries.
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Mitch and Daz catch up on their recent adventures in the world of whisky including various whisky tours on Islay, a luxurious trip around Speyside and a cycle adventure completing the Speyside Way. Mitch gives an update on his upcoming book, 'Not Another F***ing Whisky Book,' and the duo brainstorm the best whisky books. They also discuss whisky news, including Glenmorangie's partnership with Formula 1 and Richard Hammond's new whisky venture. To add excitement, they introduce 'The Easiest Whisky Quiz in the World,' where rapid-fire questions lead to humorous mishaps, with Daz being the first contestant. Listeners are invited to participate for the chance to win—and potentially win nothing at all! Get your ears around this one!
00:00 Opening Banter and Podcast Introduction
00:25 Recap of Last Week's Episode
00:50 Australian Whisky Tour Highlights
02:39 Macallan Distillery Experience
05:29 Living in Speyside: Reflections and Changes
08:39 Writing a Whisky Book
13:05 Epic Whisky Tastings
17:42 Upcoming Events and Travel Plans
19:37 Exploring Distilleries and Future Plans
21:16 Upcoming Trips and Irish Whiskey Plans
22:59 Whisky News and Industry Updates
29:18 The Easiest Whisky Quiz in the World
34:29 Wrapping Up and Upcoming Events
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Today, Mitch and Daz are diving into the world of Japanese whisky with a special guest, Dave Broom, a hairy, wise, and well-traveled whisky expert who might have been aged in oak himself. The episode takes listeners through the heritage, craft, and unique philosophy behind Japanese whisky, exploring everything from its flavor profiles to its cultural connections. Along the way, they touch on the whisky scene's evolution, regulatory needs, and the ever-enjoyable highball. Get ready for an informative, yet hilarious journey through the land of Samurai, sushi, and sublime whisky.
Tickets for our podcast live event - https://www.notanotherwhiskypodcast.com/tasting
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:26 Exploring Japanese Whiskey
01:14 International Whisky Adventures
03:29 The Heritage of Japanese Whisky
06:41 Welcoming Dave
08:07 The Philosophy of Japanese Whisky
18:48 Regulations and Authenticity in Japanese Whisky
25:46 The Patience of Whisky Aging
26:50 The Growth of Japanese Distilleries
27:57 Challenges and Innovations in Japanese Whisky
29:41 The Need for Regulation
32:52 Emerging Distilleries to Watch
36:43 The Unique Flavor Profile of Japanese Whisky
40:01 The Highball Culture
45:26 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
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From Near-Death Experiences to Whisky Regulations
In this episode Mitch welcome their guest, James Buntin, to dive into the world of Australian whisky. (Recorded after a near-death biking incident :), the discussion spans James' recent adventures, Australian whisky's booming scene led by pioneers like Bill Lark, and the rising number of distilleries down under. They explore unusual finishes like ginger beer casks, the lack of strict regulations fostering innovation, and the developing visitor experiences in Australian distilleries. They also talk about whisky tasting traditions, innovative distilleries, and the influence of the Whiskey Club in Australia.
The episode wraps up with exciting news about their upcoming live event in Speyside, 'Battle of the Independent Bottlers'. Get your tickets here - https://www.notanotherwhiskypodcast.com/tasting
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Daz catches up with special guest Nick Hammond, a renowned writer and author of 'Around the World in 80 Cigars.' This candid conversation dives into the rich traditions of the cigar world, the intimate art of cigar pairing, and some unforgettable moments from Nick's travels. Tune in for a blend of humour, deep dives into flavour nuances, and a celebration of the bonds created over a good smoke and a great drink.
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