The Distillery Nation Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

In the latest episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast, we had the pleasure of chatting with Chris Tunstall, co-founder of A Bar Above! Chris has been a driving force in the world of cocktails and bar education, with a mission to elevate the bar experience for both professionals and enthusiasts alike.

In this episode, Chris shares his deep knowledge and expertise on a range of topics that are invaluable for distillers and bar owners. We dive into the art of cocktail creation and how distilleries can maximize their tasting room experience to engage customers and create memorable moments. Chris also provides practical tips for distilleries looking to make a stronger impact in the on-premise space, offering advice on partnerships, staff training, and understanding customer preferences.

 

#Cocktails

#TastingRoom

#Distillery

#BarExperience

#OnPremiseStrategies

#BarAbove

#ChrisTunstall

#DistilleryNation

#CraftSpirits

#Hospitality

#CustomerEngagement

#BartendingTips

#CocktailCulture

We’re excited to bring you the second part of our insightful series with Mark Beres, co-founder and CEO of Flying Leap Vineyards and Distillery, on the Distillery Nation Podcast. After exploring the significant headwinds in the craft spirits space in part one, we now shift our focus to solutions. In this episode, Mark and I dive into practical strategies and actionable advice to tackle the challenges that distillery owners are facing today.

With high production costs being a major hurdle, we discuss innovative ways to reduce expenses without sacrificing quality. Mark shares tips on optimizing operations, sourcing cost-effective materials, and leveraging technology to streamline production processes.

A very special podcast to wrap up the end of the year. For the third year I decided to go back, listen and re-listen to all the great interviews that happened in the last year and pick some of my favorite pieces and add commentary on why that piece was important and how in most cases it helped with the direction for my business.

1. Sean from Fox and Seeker - Navigating Resources for Small Distilleries

In Episode [Timestamp: 32:16 - 34:05], Sean emphasizes the challenges faced by small distilleries in supporting on-premise operations. He advocates for a strategic focus on retail avenues as an initial step, recognizing the difficulties of resource allocation.

2. Sonat from Koval Distillery - The Power of Adaptability and Branding

Sonat's insights, shared between [Timestamp: 24:19 - 29:02], revolve around the significance of adaptability. She discusses the "aha moment," stressing the importance of shifting strategies when needed and harnessing the power of effective branding.

3. Dan from Cotswolds Distillery - The Cash Cow: Gin's Role in Funding Business Growth

In the segment [Timestamp: 35:10 - 38:06], Dan delves into the role of a flagship product, using gin as an example, in funding various aspects of a small distillery business. He explores the concept of a "cash cow" product and its potential impact on overall business sustainability.

4. Dave from Starwards Distillery - Beyond a Good Product: Crafting a Unique Value Proposition

Dave's discussion from [Timestamp: 36:45 - 39:26] emphasizes the importance of having more than just a good product. He highlights the need to articulate reasons why consumers should choose a particular bottle, emphasizing the creation of a compelling brand story.

5. Grant from Chattanooga Whiskey - Crafting Tradition 2.0: Raw Material Focus

Grant, between [Timestamp: 16:49 - 20:15], discusses the unconventional approach of prioritizing raw materials over traditional recipe development. This strategy helps build a brand identity beyond generic offerings, aligning with consumer expectations.

6. Lee from Wood's High Mountain Distillery - Maturation in High Altitude: A Unique Approach

Exploring the impact of maturation at high altitudes, Lee's insights from [Timestamp: 36:13 - 39:10] shed light on the diverse approaches distilleries take. The discussion prompts a deeper exploration of the topic and its implications for flavor profiles.

7. Ian from Ohanafy - Leveraging Technology in Beverage Alcohol Production

In the segment [Timestamp: 36:03 - 37:00], Ian underscores the importance of technology in beverage alcohol production. He discusses how technology enables small producers to achieve more with fewer resources while ensuring a unified and correct approach.

8. Tom from Herrick Distillery - Unexpected Best Sellers: Listening to Consumer Feedback

Tom's experience, shared from [Timestamp: 21:20 - 22:33], highlights the potential of unexpected products becoming best sellers. He emphasizes the importance of actively listening to consumer feedback, especially during tastings.

9. Mathias from Purity Distillery - The Significance of Copper Surface in Distillation

In Episode [Timestamp: 23:49 - 27:20], Mathias emphasizes the importance of copper surface during distillation. He discusses the critical role of selecting the right still for the desired product.

10. Matt from Big Thirst - Co-promotion and Collaborations: Amplifying Brand Exposure

Matt's insights, shared between [Timestamp: 39:35 - 40:32], focus on the importance of co-promotion and collaborations. He highlights how sharing audiences and exposure between brands can significantly amplify brand visibility.

11. Nicolas from PM Spirits - Creating Your Own Box: Diversifying Revenue Streams

Nicolas, in the segment [Timestamp: 22:14 - 23:27], discusses the concept of creating your own box. He explores the idea of diversifying revenue streams, whether through wholesaling, creating unique brands, or engaging in collaborations to supplement the initial business model.

A Year in Review was created with the hope everyone will find something to take away into the new year!

In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast I had a chat with John Emrick from Sea Bishop distillery. Sea Bishop is located in Black Diamond WA and specilizing in Gin. John talked everything from issues with finding the right location, to distribution to streamlining his production process. An episode full of good solid advice and details around small craft Gin production! Please visit this podcast at http://www.distillerynation.com/ and view all of today's show notes.

In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast I chatted with Tim Girvin. Tim has over 40 years’ experience in the design space and has helped brands develop a strategy and story around their core and ideas. In this episode, we chatted about the things you need to include, how to tell your story and his advice for running a successful business. One tip, go check out Tim's handwriting on Youtube, its amazing. Please visit this podcast at http://www.distillerynation.com/ and view all of today's show notes.

In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast I chatted with David Dunbar. Dave has over forty years of “hands-on” experience with the federal laws and regulations that govern beverage alcohol of all types, so we talk all things distillery regulation and compliance. Please visit this podcast at http://www.distillerynation.com/ and view all of today's show notes.

In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast I chatted with Brian Defoe. Brian is a Seattle based attorney specializing in distilled spirits law. He's been featured in the Whiskey Reviewer and Artisian Spirits maganize and you can also found him over at hoochlaw.com where he often blogs all things hooch! Please visit this podcast at http://www.distillerynation.com/ and view all of today's show notes.

In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast I chatted with Stuart Gregor of Four Pillars Distillery. Stuart is one of the co-founders behind the distillery and we honestly learned so much talking with him. Thing like how important food and spirit are in today's world, why the number eight is so important to them and some really cool releases they have coming up in the United States. Please visit this podcast at http://www.distillerynation.com/ and view all of today's show notes.

In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast I chatted with Dianna Connelly, an insurance agent located in Washington state. Dianna recently helped me consolidate and review my insurance needs for 2017, I ask her some of my own questions and we talk everything from bonds to earthquake insurance. Please visit this podcast at http://www.distillerynation.com/ and view all of today's show notes.

In this episode of the Distillery Nation Podcast I chatted with Kirby Kallas-Lewis from OOLA Distillery, this is our first podcast for 2017 and we where super excited to feature Kirby and OOLA Distillery. We started the conversation with Kirby's background into art and how he crossed over to distilling. Why he choose distilling, being honest and transparent and what he would change in his first year of operation. Please visit this podcast at http://www.distillerynation.com/ and view all of today's show notes.