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S&D Podcast Episode 25: Gian Nelson of Jano Spirits and Ruins Distillery is Exploring the Possibilities in California Agave

There’s more to agave than Blue Weber, and Gian Nelson is on a mission to show just what’s possible with California agave through careful work with growers, adaptive fermentation processes, and an embrace of the inherent inefficiency of agave in general.

Are You Finished? Using Wine and Sherry Casks for Secondary Aging

Port, sherry, and other wines offer distillers a wide variety of options to accentuate their whiskeys.

Balancing the Scales

Distillers need to understand the potential for variability when taking batches from small scale to large scale, and vice-versa.

At Long Last, American Single-Malt Gets Its Place in the Books

The TTB has announced the new style designation for American single-malt whiskey—an achievement years in the making, and one that distillers expect to open new doors.

S&D Podcast Episode 24: Eli Breitburg-Smith Is Ushering in the Epoch of Rye in Baltimore

The cofounder and head distiller of Baltimore Spirits discusses their approach to producing distinctive rye whiskeys—such as the award-winning Epoch—as well as other unusual spirits, from a pechuga-inspired apple brandy to a smoked-tea whiskey collab with Ja Rule.

Village Comforts: Countryside Distilling in Franconia

In a region better known for its characterful beers, an after-dinner schnaps is an important piece of the hospitality, as small distillers carry on family traditions and tap into the local bounty.

Crafting Comfort: Elevating the Hot Toddy Experience

This classic cocktail is perfect for warding off the winter woes, or for just warming up.

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Deciphering the Black Box of Cask Chemistry

Understanding the reactions that occur in a barrel can help distillers get the most from their cellar environment and cask choices.

S&D Podcast Episode 23: Morgan McLachlan of AMASS and De Soi Builds Thoughtful Botanical Bases for Both Gin and Nonalcoholic Spirited Beverages

She’s not one for hard and fast rules, instead employing the deep strategies of fine fragrance makers and molecular gastronomy chefs to understand the chemical underpinnings of the layered, nuanced aroma and flavor compounds in her spirits.

Meeting the Bar: Creating NA Alternatives for Amaro, Aperitif, and Digestif

Small producers are finding ways to offer alcohol-free options that more closely match the flavor intensity and mouthfeel of traditional products.