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Four Trailblazing Women Who Shaped Drinking Culture

For Women’s History Month, we mix up some cocktails in honor of those who pushed for a seat at the table and a place behind the bar.

Fundamentals

Unlocking the Goodness Locked Up in Grain

Understanding the fundamentals of proper mashing or cooking can be essential to producing good spirits.

S&D Podcast Episode 27: Ashley Barnes of The Blending House Uses Data to Drive Better Blends

As a chemist with a background in pharmaceutical quality, Ashley Barnes developed scientific discipline and a data-driven approach. Now as master blender at the Blending House, she applies that same rigor to the subject of aging and blending spirits.

The Synergies of Brewstilleries

Adding a brewery to a distillery—or vice versa—can open up some options for makers, bringing new efficiencies and opportunities for creativity.

Aquatically Aged Spirits: A Taste of the Past (with Modern Legal Hurdles)

Aging barrels on rivers and waterways offers distillers a unique profile—and an intriguing story—for their spirits. However, there are some legal and technical challenges to overcome.

Experimenting with Different Cask Finishes for Rye Whiskey | Video Tip

R&D distiller Mitch Mahar describes the innovation program that helps WhistlePig choose single-cask finishes worth pursuing, as well as potential threads for their annual Boss Hog special release.

Fundamentals

Pots and Columns: Choosing the Right Type of Still

A distiller’s choice of still design can have a significant impact on their product lineup—and vice-versa.

S&D Podcast Episode 26: Caley Shoemaker of As Above, So Below Explores Character and Texture in Vodka Distillation

Character and expression in “simple” vodka distillations? Is it really possible? The cofounder and master distiller behind this Santa Fe, New Mexico, craft distillery not only thinks so, but she walks through her process of using atypical grains and other ingredients to produce vodka with spirit and verve.

Why the Angel’s Share Matters

Oh, the sweetness of loss… Here’s how and why the slow, inevitable reduction of cask-aged spirit plays a valuable role in its maturation and flavor—and why some people try to prevent it anyway.

From Wine to Wonder: The Art of Homemade Vermouth

Making vermouth at home allows for endless exploration and limitless flavor opportunities.