How did High West Distillery evolve from a small Utah blending house into one of the most innovative names in American whiskey? In this educational deep-dive interview, Isaac Winter shares exclusive insights into High West’s 20-year journey—revealing the blending philosophy, mash bill strategies, barrel experiments, and proofing techniques that define the brand today.

From early craft beginnings to developing in-house distillate and bold limited releases, Isaac explains how agility fuels innovation. Learn how High West layers mash bills—like 60/40 corn and malted barley with rye accents—into complex, balanced expressions. Discover the details behind their reimagined cask strength release, barrel selection strategy, fermentation profiles, and how proof impacts flavor.

We also explore High West’s cutting-edge collaborations, including cacao-infused barrels and specialty barrel work with Kelvin Cooperage, known for delivering marshmallow and graham cracker notes.

Whether you’re a bourbon enthusiast refining your palate, a collector tracking limited releases, or an industry insider seeking behind-the-scenes production insight, this episode delivers actionable knowledge to elevate your whiskey game.

If you want to understand how sourcing, blending, barrel finishing, and innovation shape the future of American whiskey, this conversation is essential listening.

The future of American whiskey is evolving—and High West is helping lead the charge.

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• High West celebrates 20 years of blending-driven whiskey innovation
• Blending philosophy: iterative layering of multiple mash bills for complexity
• Transition from sourced whiskey to in-house mash bills and production control
• The strategy behind their reimagined cask strength release
• Barrel selection, fermentation profiles, and proofing as tools for balance
• Collaborative innovation with Ritual Chocolate and Kelvin barrels
• Agility through sourcing and limited releases keeps the portfolio fresh
• Flavor profile highlights: cereal grains, dark fruit, spice, marshmallow, graham cracker

• “20 years of High West—what a milestone!”
• “Our blending style is super iterative.”
• “Taste the cereal grains in every sip.”

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Most bourbon fans have overlooked one of the most nuanced finishing trends sweeping American whiskey—until now. In this episode of Five Minute Fridays, we explore Rabbit Hole Distillery’s Sucrule Maple Burle Cask Finished Bourbon and break down why this innovative release is redefining what a winter finish can be.

Crafted from a four-grain triple malt mash bill and bottled at 106.9 proof, Sucrule showcases how thoughtful finishing can elevate a base whiskey without overpowering it. The Maple Burle cask introduces an unexpected tropical character—think tapioca pudding, toasted coconut, and subtle fruit—layered over caramel sweetness and structured grain notes.

In this episode, Jake dives into how proof amplifies flavor intensity, why mash bill composition matters in finished bourbon, and how the maple cask complements rather than dominates the whiskey. The balance between sweetness and malt creates harmony, not chaos—offering a bold yet refined drinking experience.

We also discuss broader trends in American whiskey, including the rise of creative finishing techniques and what they signal for bourbon’s future. If you’re curious about maple finishes, tropical tasting notes, or how distillers are pushing boundaries while maintaining balance, this episode is your guide.

Failing to explore innovative finishes like Maple Burle risks staying in predictable flavor territory. Whether you're a collector, bartender, or curious enthusiast, this conversation will expand your palate and deepen your appreciation for modern bourbon craftsmanship.

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#RabbitHole #MapleBurle #BourbonReview #FinishedBourbon #AmericanWhiskey #WhiskeyTasting #CraftSpirits #BourbonLens #FiveMinuteFridays

• Maple Burle cask finishing adds tropical and toasted sweetness
• 106.9 proof enhances structure and flavor intensity
• A four-grain triple malt mash bill supports finishing complexity
• Sweet maple notes balance with grain and malt backbone
• Innovative finishing techniques are shaping bourbon’s future
• Finished bourbons can be adventurous without sacrificing harmony

• “This isn’t just a winter finish—it’s a tropical surprise in a bourbon glass.”
• “Proof amplifies the sweetness, but the mash bill keeps it grounded.”
• “The best finishes complement the whiskey—they don’t cover it up.”
• “Maple Burle may be the next evolution of seasonal bourbon.”

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Winter whiskey should do more than warm you up — it should transform the entire experience.

In this episode of Bourbon Lens, Jake and Scott explore how seasonal changes influence flavor perception, bottle selection, and the way we enjoy whiskey during colder months. From rich, layered bourbons to spicy ryes and innovative cask finishes, they break down what truly makes a whiskey “winter-ready.”

You’ll hear tasting notes and discussion around standout bottles like High West Distillery Cask Strength, 1792 Full Proof, Green River Distilling Company Full Proof, Wild Turkey 17 Year, Old Fitzgerald 15 Year, Sagamore Spirit Rye, and Old Overholt Rye. The conversation covers proof, age, mash bill nuance, finishing techniques, and why bold, complex profiles shine brightest in winter.

Scott shares his gravitation toward tobacco, caramel, maple, and dark stewed fruit notes for cozy nights, while Jake explores the impact of Calvados, sherry, and toasted grain finishes that add layers of warmth and nostalgia. They also discuss the resurgence of single barrels, the growing demand for transparency in 2026, and how storytelling shapes today’s whiskey landscape.

Beyond the glass, the episode touches on winter rituals — from hot toddies and old fashioneds to the metaphor of snow removal as it relates to whiskey’s warming power. Whether you're settling in by the fire or reflecting during winter’s slower pace, this episode will help you choose whiskies that elevate the season.

If you're ready to deepen your winter sipping ritual and approach whiskey with more intention, this is your essential cold-weather guide.

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#WinterWhiskey #BourbonLens #Bourbon #RyeWhiskey #CaskStrength #SingleBarrel #WhiskeyTasting #SeasonalSips #WhiskeyCommunity #BourbonPodcast

• Cold weather enhances bold, rich, and complex whiskey profiles
• Proof and age matter — but balance and flavor depth matter more
• Winter flavor notes include caramel, tobacco, maple, dark fruit, and toasted oak
• Finishes like sherry, Calvados, and maple can amplify seasonal warmth
• Single barrels and transparency are shaping whiskey’s future
• Seasonal cocktails like hot toddies and old fashioneds complement winter pours
• Environment and mindset influence how whiskey is experienced

• “Winter whiskey should transform the moment, not just warm your hands.”
• “Proof matters — but depth is what carries you through the season.”
• “The right finish can turn a dram into a fireside memory.”
• “Cold weather rewards bold flavor.”

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