Episode insights, spirits education, tasting conversations, and the culture and craft behind what is in your glass.
LaGritona is produced entirely by women — from the agave fields to the bottling line. Crystal and Roger review the reposado and make the case for supporting this brand when you see it.
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Two iconic 101-proof bourbons go head to head. Wild Turkey 101 is high-rye and bold; Maker's Mark 101 is wheated and soft. Crystal and Roger call the winner.
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Bottled in Bond is one of America's oldest consumer protection laws — and George Dickel's expression is a textbook example of what it guarantees. Crystal and Roger review it and explain the history.
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Belvedere's Organic Infusions line uses real fruit — no additives, no artificial flavor. Crystal and Roger taste the Pear & Ginger with a Drop of Honey and find it changes how they think about flavored vodka.
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The Wanderfolk Distillery — makers of Same Old Moses — releases new rye expressions. Crystal and Roger taste through the double barreled lineup and examine what the second barrel adds.
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Flor de Caña ages their rum near Volcán San Cristóbal in Nicaragua — and the volcanic conditions affect the aging in measurable ways. Crystal and Roger review it and explore why location matters in rum production.
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Maker's 46 was the first new Maker's Mark expression in 50 years when it launched in 2010. Crystal and Roger review it and tell the story of the French oak stave finishing that made it possible.
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Tullamore D.E.W. 12 Year Special Reserve is triple blended — pot still whiskey, malt whiskey, and grain whiskey — aged 12 years in sherry and bourbon casks. Crystal and Roger review it alongside a mystery: where's the bottle?
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The Macallan 12 Year Sherry Oak is the entry point to the world's most collected single malt. Crystal and Roger taste it and give the honest verdict on whether the price and reputation are earned.
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Crystal and Roger use Del Maguey Vida — one of the spirits that introduced mezcal to American drinkers — to explain what mezcal actually is and why it is not just smoky tequila.
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Una Familia is a family-owned, additive-free tequila at a time when the market is flooded with celebrity bottles. Crystal and Roger run a full flight review.
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Nearest Green was the formerly enslaved master distiller who taught Jack Daniel the Lincoln County process. Uncle Nearest honors his legacy. Crystal and Roger review the 1884 Small Batch and tell his story.
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