Sharing whiskey passion globally. Gavin Linde aka @rolexwhisky on Instagram, one of the worlds leading whisky influencers and collectors, curates a guest list of passionate whiskey-loving individuals to talk about the history, investing in, the current luxury spirits trends, and of course, drinking whiskey. Join us for each episode to hear our weekly interviews with whiskey industry professionals and lovers of great luxury spirits.

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Join us as we chat with Struan Ralph, aka &#34;The Whisky Beard,&#34; from the William Grant family. We dive into Struan&#39;s early whiskey memories, the transformative journey of single malt whiskies, and their rise in global markets. Listen in for anecdotes from New York&#39;s social scene, industry insights, and discussions on whisky trends, finishes, and pricing. Discover how the whisky industry is evolving and what makes these spirits so special. Tune in for a captivating conversation about the world of whisky and its enduring allure.

Glenfiddich Global Brand Ambassador Struan Ralph

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Ryan Mills and Gavin engage in a detailed discussion about their whiskey passion, exploring various types of whiskeys and the whiskey-making process. They emphasize authenticity in social media, focusing on genuine enjoyment over popularity. Ryan shares his whiskey tasting events and collaborations within the whiskey community, highlighting the educational and enjoyable aspects of whiskey exploration. Personal Spirits Collections and Rolex Whisky Passion Project gavin and Ryan engaged in a light-hearted discussion about their personal collections of opened and unopened bottles of spirits, with Ryan estimating he had around 350 bottles. They shared their drinking habits and strategies for managing their collections. The conversation then transitioned to the introduction of Ryan to the Rolex Whisky Passion Project, a platform for passionate whisky enthusiasts. gavin expressed his interest in helping more people get to know Ryan through this platform. Whiskey and Cigar Preferences Discussed Ryan and gavin shared their early experiences and preferences regarding whiskey and other alcoholic beverages. They both recalled their initial introductions to whiskey, which were not typically consumed neat, and often accompanied by cigars. Ryan&#39;s family had a significant influence on his love for cigars, while gavin found cigars to be a way to control his environment. They also delved into their cultural backgrounds and how it influenced their drinking preferences, with gavin&#39;s Italian heritage leading him to appreciate digestifs like Sambuco, and Ryan&#39;s exploration of different types of whiskey gravitating towards smoky, peaty Scotch. They also shared their past drinking habits, with Ryan admitting to a fondness for Long Island Iced Teas and gavin revealing his late introduction to Bourbon. Whisky Appreciation and Isle of Skye Experiences gavin and Ryan shared their experiences and appreciation for different types of whiskies, particularly the Isla Scotch. gavin, who had recently visited the Isle of Skye, described it as a &#34;happy place&#34; with a unique atmosphere, where the pace of life seemed to slow down and the distilleries provided employment for the local community. They both agreed on the importance of slowing down to appreciate the different flavors and notes in whiskies. The conversation also touched on the history and production of whiskies, from ancient Mesopotamia to modern times, and the influence of peating and other processes on the finished product. Developing Authentic Social Media Presence gavin and Ryan discussed the development of Ryan&#39;s social media presence, particularly on Instagram and TikTok. Ryan shared that his authentic and relatable approach to content creation, centered around his passion for luxury items like cigars and whisky, has attracted a dedicated following. Both gavin and Ryan emphasized the importance of realness in their content creation, describing their social media platforms as a form of education and a way to share their knowledge and enthusiasm with others. They both agreed that the journey and process of creating content was more important than the end result, and that a genuine and authentic approach was key to building a loyal audience. Food and Drink Pairings, Whiskies, and Community gavin and Ryan discussed their love for experimenting with food and drink pairings, particularly the combination of Glendronic 18 sherry and mac and cheese. They also shared their experiences with promoting and enjoying whiskies, with gavin sharing his encounter with a couple who had been drinking Mcallen for 50 years, inspiring him to try new spirits. Ryan highlighted the importance of helping people experience different types of whiskies and the joy of discovering new favorite drinks. He also spoke about the unique experiences that come with being in the whisky industry and the importance of the community they&#39;ve built through various platforms. Whiskey Passion and Community Bonding Ryan and gavin shared their love for whiskey and how it led them to become part of a wider community. Ryan revealed how his passion began as a challenge to his wife&#39;s lack of interest, but quickly developed into a source of friendship and enjoyment. gavin jokingly mentioned his wife&#39;s watchful eye over his involvement, but also acknowledged the depth of his own commitment. Both expressed appreciation for the connections made and the excitement of discovering and appreciating fine spirits. Ryan&#39;s partner&#39;s discerning palate and ability to spot rare bottles was admired, and gavin showed interest in involving his own wife in this hobby as a bonding activity for their families.

Ryan Mills Owner, Amber & Ash Consulting LLC

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Jordan Felix engages in a deep dive into premium whiskies at Clyde Common, exploring a diverse selection of single malts and bourbons.Gavin and Jordan engaged in a wide-ranging conversation about their experiences with alcohol and whiskey, starting with their early introduction to alcohol and their favorite drinks during their youth. They reflected on the lack of customer care in some establishments and reminisced about various spirits like Anniversary Port, Sambuka, and Ouzo. Their discussion then focused on their experiences with whisky, particularly Johnnie Walker Black, and their growing appreciation for different types of whisky, especially after their time at Clyde Common. They reviewed various single malt whiskies, sharing their favorites and discussing the challenges of supply and demand in the industry. Finally, they reminisced about their fond memories of whiskey, their preferences for aged whiskies, and the importance of distillery management in maintaining quality.

Deep Dive into Premium Whiskies with Jordan Felix

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In part 2 of this conversation, Gavin and Justin Jesser discussed whiskey collecting and the industry&#39;s authenticity challenges. They delved into topics like the evolving consumer base, conducting blind tastings, and educating others about unique finds. Gavin shared insights on his experiences with whiskey collecting, aiming to provide value through relationships with brands while staying true to his principles. Insights focused on identifying valuable bottles, savoring unique flavors, and creating memorable moments while investing wisely. The discussion extended to social media presence for authentic sharing of knowledge about whiskies and promoting quality products over marketing gimmicks. Both expressed dedication to enhancing whiskey appreciation globally through genuine insights rather than trend-following. The meeting concluded warmly with mutual appreciation for contributions to the industry, emphasizing the importance of real connections in fostering a deep-rooted passion for whiskey. Their exchange showcased a blend of investment savvy, passion for spirits, and fostering genuine connections through shared appreciation for fine whiskies.

Justin Jesser from Whiskey Decision  PART 2

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The distilled essence of a passion-filled, part 1 of 2, discussion between Gavin and Justin Jesser of Whiskey Decision, crackles throughout their latest deep-dive into the intricate world of whiskey. Akin to the spirit they cherish, their conversation distills key themes of market trends, the authenticity in whiskey influence, and the pursuit of a legacy in the whiskey industry. Justin Jesser and Gavin discuss various topics like whiskey investments, auction strategies, and personal brand preferences. Gavin shared experiences in finding valuable whiskies and collecting rare bottles, emphasizing the importance of caution in navigating the market to avoid overpaying. Justin highlighted building personal connections through whiskey tastings for deeper conversations beyond business matters.

Justin Jesser from Whiskey Decision  PART 1

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In this episode of the Rolex Whiskey Passion project, host Gavin welcomes guest Zachary Miller, also known as the Whiskey Librarian. Zachary shares his journey into the world of whiskey, from growing up around the South Sound Whiskey Society to becoming the Whiskey Librarian and a railroad engineer. He discusses his love for whiskey and the importance of education and exposure in the industry. Zachary also talks about his Instagram page and the value of tasting notes and bottle photography. Don&#39;t miss this engaging conversation about the artistry and passion behind whiskey.

Zachary Miller: From Whiskey Enthusiast to Whiskey Librarian

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Jamie Ritchie, former Sotheby&#39;s executive and current member of BlockBar, joins Gavin on this episode of the Rolex Whiskey Passion Project. They discuss the evolution of the spirits market, the rise of independent bottlers, and the importance of authenticity and provenance in the whiskey industry. Jamie shares his experiences in the world of whiskey, including his visit to Macallan and his involvement in the Middleton Very Rare auction. They also touch on the changing dynamics of whiskey consumption among millennials and Gen Z. Don&#39;t miss this fascinating conversation about the future of whiskey and the innovative approach of BlockBar.

Jamie Ritchie Discusses the Whiskey Market and Blockbar's Impact

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In this engaging episode of the Rolex Whiskey Passion Project, host Gavin welcomes Aaron Goldfarb, a seasoned journalist and author who has recently published a noteworthy book on vintage spirits. Listeners are taken on a journey through Aaron&#39;s personal and professional whiskey encounters, revealing how his experiences have shaped his understanding and appreciation for this timeless beverage. The conversation kicks off with Aaron recounting his earliest memories of whiskey and how his palate evolved while attending college in upstate New York during the bourbon renaissance. Drawing from his firsthand experiences in New York City&#39;s burgeoning cocktail scene of the early 2000s, Aaron offers an insightful glimpse into the industry&#39;s emerging trends of the time, including his tasting encounters with craft beer, bourbon, and beyond.

The Rise and Fall of Vintage Whiskey: Exploring the Dusty Booze Trend

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Whiskey has carved its own path through the ages, transforming from a spirit enjoyed by select few to a universal symbol of sophistication, tradition, and innovation. In a rich conversation with Zach Johnston, the Drinks Editor for UPROXX Life, we unearth the layers that define whiskey&#39;s past, present, and potential. Johnston&#39;s narrative unveils personal tales, industry evolution, and the beating heart of whiskey culture. Whiskey&#39;s modern rebirth isn&#39;t merely about the liquid itself; it&#39;s a story of rediscovery—a journey back to its roots in craftsmanship and regional heritage. As Johnston recalls, &#34;...there&#39;s so much room and so much space to do stuff where your imagination is the only limit.&#34; Gone are the days when whiskey was a one-note song; today&#39;s tune is a complex symphony appealing to a broader audience.

The Whiskey Renaissance: A Conversation with Zach Johnston of UPROXX Life

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Whiskey has long seduced the palates of enthusiasts around the globe, offering a depth of flavor and a richness of tradition that few other spirits can match. In an engaging dialogue with whiskey aficionado Devin Velardi, we delve deep into the heart of whiskey culture and its burgeoning avenues. The conversation touches on Vilardi&#39;s personal whiskey experiences, the development of the American Single Malt, and meaningful encounters in the industry. Whiskey&#39;s allure isn&#39;t beholden to any single factor, but rather a culmination of experiences that progress from youthful trials to mature appreciation. Devin Vilardi recounts an early encounter with whiskey that was less than inviting—a 1978 or 1980 bottle of Johnny Walker Red Label—but it was this initial bracing taste that paved the way for his nuanced understanding and passion for whiskey in later years.

From Humble Beginnings to Whiskey Aficionado With Devin Vilardi

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Gavin offers some more sound advice on whisky investments and refers to a recent Forbes article The article states The current state of the secondary whisky market is characterized by uncertainty, presenting opportunities for discerning investors. To navigate this landscape in 2024, potential investors are advised to heed three key considerations. Firstly, it is crucial to recognize that whisky, like any investment, carries inherent risks with values subject to fluctuations. Prudent investors should only commit funds that they can afford to lose. Secondly, the practice of buying bottles for quick resale, known as flipping, has become increasingly precarious. The market is expected to experience a decline in both volume and value in 2024. Factors contributing to this decline include a surplus of sellers, a diminished pool of buyers due to reduced disposable income, and heightened awareness of tax implications associated with flipped bottles. Thirdly, the recommendation is to adopt a long-term investment approach. While some may experience quick financial gains, sustained success in the whisky investment realm often stems from strategic purchasing and a commitment to holding assets for an extended period.

Whiskey Investing: Current Market Status and Future Trends

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In the latest enthralling episode of the Rolex Whiskey Passion project, we delve into the spirited world of whiskey aficionados with our guest, Jonny Lieberman. A versatile individual whose love for bourbon is as profound as his expertise in cars, Jonny takes us on a journey through his personal whiskey discoveries and the transformative experiences that shaped his palate. From a revelatory tasting of a 16-year-old Hirsch at a brewers&#39; conference to stumbling upon the legendary Black Maple Hill bourbon, Jonny shares foundational moments that propelled him into the ever-evolving universe of whiskey collecting. The conversation meanders through the halcyon days when rare whiskies like Pappy Van Winkle sat on shelves at attainable prices, offering a nostalgic glimpse into a past era of bourbon hunting.

Bourbon Enthusiast, Jonny Lieberman, Talks About Love for Whiskey and Collecting Rare Bottles

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The world of whiskey and luxury spirits doesn&#39;t just revolve around the enjoyment of complex flavors and rare finds—it&#39;s an intricate dance of passion, business savvy, and community building. In today&#39;s episode with Glen McCallum, co-owner of McCallum and Sons Whiskey Co., we delve into the intricacies of running a whiskey specialty store, the journey from passion to profession, and the importance of creating a community around a beloved spirit. Whiskey aficionados often dream about turning their passion into a vocation. Glen&#39;s journey from being an army officer to a whiskey boutique co-owner is a case study of channeling one&#39;s enthusiasm into entrepreneurship. One pivotal experience, a visit to a whiskey boutique in Dublin, painted a vivid picture of what a specialized retail store could offer: an array of selections, expert knowledge, and an impressive presentation that turns buying spirits into an experience.

Whiskey Enthusiast Opens Specialized Bottle Shop in Washington

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On this episode, we&#39;re joined by David Pearce of Clandestine Whisky Magazine to explore the intricacies and joys of whiskey appreciation. The podcast transcripts have been distilled into an article rich with insights for both seasoned enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike. Whiskey appreciation has seen a dramatic surge over the past few decades, evolving from a drink predominantly savored by a niche audience to one with a global following and multifaceted market. As David recalls, the shift from enjoying whiskey solely as a casual drink to pursuing it as a collectible commodity was a gradual process, driven by the desire for both knowledge and exceptional experiences.

Whiskey Enthusiast Explores Unique and Surprising Whiskies

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In this episode we delve deep into the inspiring world of bespoke whiskey cases with the founder of Daryl Proof, Nick Tarbuck—alias Daryl. As the mind behind some of the most durable and stylish whiskey travel cases in the industry, Daryl shares his relatively recent yet deeply rooted passion for whiskey and how it became the catalyst for his entrepreneurial endeavor. The conversation takes us on a journey through Daryl&#39;s dive into whiskey appreciation and the genesis of Daryl Proof, LLC. The guest&#39;s enthusiastic recollection of his first distillery experience paints a vivid picture of how intrinsic the love for whiskey is to his personal and professional life. This episode is an intimate account of transformation, exploration, and the confluence of good spirits with great design.

Daryl Proof: From Whiskey Enthusiast to Master Case Designer

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River Wood, a bartender from South Africa, shares his personal whiskey journey and how he fell in love with the spirit. He talks about his early experiences with whiskey, his time working on cruise ships, and his passion for mixology. River also discusses his current role at Gleneagles, where he has the opportunity to work with an incredible selection of whiskeys and meet passionate guests. He emphasizes the importance of being consistent and mindful in life and appreciating the privilege of waking up each day.

Exploring Rare and Expensive Drams at Gleneagles

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Raj Sabharwal, founding partner of Glass Revolution Imports, joins Gavin to discuss his journey in the whiskey industry. Raj shares his early experiences with whiskey, including growing up in Canada and drinking Canadian whiskey and Scotch. He also talks about his first taste of Glenfiddich and how it sparked his interest in single malts. Raj then delves into the challenges and successes of launching Amrut single malts in the US market and the growth of the Indian whiskey industry. He also discusses the expansion of Glass Revolution Imports&#39; portfolio to include other world single malts, such as Blackadder and Bimber. Raj reflects on the evolution of the whiskey landscape and the increasing popularity of world single malts. He emphasizes the importance of education and the role of Glass Revolution Imports in introducing and promoting unique and high-quality whiskeys to the US market.

Raj Sabharwal discusses his journey in the world of whiskey

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Nick Harborne, the founder of Whiskey Wiseman and Wild Cocktails, joins Gavin on today&#39;s show. Nick shares the story behind the creation of Whiskey Wiseman, a whiskey club that started as a boys&#39; night out and grew into a global community. He talks about his journey of discovering and falling in love with whiskey, particularly Islay whiskies and Japanese whiskies. Nick also discusses the challenges of navigating the changing landscape of social media and influencer culture. He expresses his excitement about the comeback of Whiskey Wiseman and his plans to continue sharing his passion for whiskey with others.

A Conversation on Whiskey and Authenticity

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In this episode, Gavin interviews David Thomas Tao, a whiskey reviewer, writer, and producer. David shares his first encounter with whiskey, growing up in Bardstown, Kentucky, and visiting distilleries as a child. He talks about his journey back into the world of whiskey as an adult and how he became involved in cocktail culture. David also discusses his transition into whiskey writing and the opportunities that have come his way. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling and the connections made through whiskey.

David Thomas Tao discusses his journey into the world of whiskey

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While Rory was working his way through his undergraduate degree in Applied Psychology BSc. He developed a keen interest in the marketing aspects of the drinks industry, specifically single malt whisky. This interest grew from working within a prestigious whisky bar in the heart of Scotland&#39;s capital for several years. This allowed Rory to gain unparalleled exposure to some of the most renowned figures and innovators in the whisky industry. Coupled with this exposure and natural interest, he soon developed a passion that led him to undertake his Master&#39;s in Marketing. Since then Rory has focused much of his efforts on becoming engrossed in the marketing strategies of luxurious consumables, with a personal enthusiasm for the international whisky industry.

National Single Malt Scotch Whisky Ambassador Rory Glasgow

Listen to new episodes by @RolexWhisky aka Gavin Linde Weekly!

Sharing Whiskey passion globally. Gavin Linde aka @rolexwhisky on Instagram, one of the world's leading whisky influencers and collectors, curates a guest list of passionate Whiskey loving individuals to talk about the history, investing in, the current luxury spirits trends, and of course, drinking whiskey. Join us for each episode to hear our weekly interviews with Whiskey industry professionals and lovers of great luxury spirits.