012: The Evolution of Irish Whiskey: Insights from Barry Chandler, Founder of Stories & Sips

08/19/24 • 59 min

In this captivating episode, Damian sits down with Barry Chandler, a prominent figure in the Irish whiskey industry and the founder of the Stories & Sips Whiskey Club. Barry shares his journey from the United States to becoming a globally recognized Irish whiskey expert. He discusses the growth of Irish whiskey, the significance of storytelling in whiskey culture, and the importance of building a global community of whiskey enthusiasts. This episode is packed with insights for anyone interested in the history of Irish whiskey, whiskey tasting, and the craft of distillation.

Key Topics Discussed:

Barry's Introduction to Irish Whiskey:

How a charity event led Barry to discover his passion for Irish whiskey tasting.
The role of storytelling in connecting people with whiskey brands.

Founding Stories & Sips Whiskey Club:

The origins and growth of a global whiskey community.
Challenges and successes in launching exclusive whiskey releases.

Navigating the Irish Whiskey Industry:

Insights into the production of Irish whiskey and the different styles such as single malt and pot still whiskey.
The impact of historical events on the development of whiskey styles in Ireland.

Building a Global Whiskey Community:

Barry’s strategies for engaging whiskey enthusiasts around the world.
Leveraging online platforms during the COVID-19 pandemic to grow the whiskey community.

Future of Irish Whiskey:

Barry’s vision for the future of Stories & Sips and the ongoing mission to share the joy of Irish whiskey globally.

Quotable Moments:

"We don’t distill red breast; we distill whiskey, and it doesn’t yet know what it’s going to be."
"This is not any process or whiskey that any one of us owns or has to defend vigorously. Rather it’s another tool for us to have a bit of crack and some chats." – Barry Chandler

Guest Contact Information:

Website: Stories & Sips
Instagram: @IrishWhiskeyBarry

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to the Cocktail Academy Podcast for more inspiring stories from the world of cocktails and spirits. Don’t forget to leave a review and share this episode with fellow whiskey/cocktail enthusiasts!

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Key Topics Discussed:

Barry's Introduction to Irish Whiskey:

How a charity event led Barry to discover his passion for Irish whiskey tasting.
The role of storytelling in connecting people with whiskey brands.

Founding Stories & Sips Whiskey Club:

The origins and growth of a global whiskey community.
Challenges and successes in launching exclusive whiskey releases.

Navigating the Irish Whiskey Industry:

Insights into the production of Irish whiskey and the different styles such as single malt and pot still whiskey.
The impact of historical events on the development of whiskey styles in Ireland.

Building a Global Whiskey Community:

Barry’s strategies for engaging whiskey enthusiasts around the world.
Leveraging online platforms during the COVID-19 pandemic to grow the whiskey community.

Future of Irish Whiskey:

Barry’s vision for the future of Stories & Sips and the ongoing mission to share the joy of Irish whiskey globally.

Quotable Moments:

"We don’t distill red breast; we distill whiskey, and it doesn’t yet know what it’s going to be."
"This is not any process or whiskey that any one of us owns or has to defend vigorously. Rather it’s another tool for us to have a bit of crack and some chats." – Barry Chandler

Guest Contact Information:

Website: Stories & Sips
Instagram: @IrishWhiskeyBarry

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Previous Episode

011: Equal Measure Cocktails: The Secret to Easy, Balanced Mixology

Episode Description: Welcome to another exciting episode of The Cocktail Academy Podcast! In this episode, host Damian Cohn dives into the world of "Equal Measure Cocktails," where simplicity meets sophistication. These cocktails are all about balance—using equal parts of each ingredient to create harmonious, easy-to-remember drinks that pack a punch. Tune in to learn the secrets behind these timeless cocktails and how to impress your friends with minimal effort but maximum flavor.

Episode Highlights:

Understanding Equal Measure Cocktails: Damian introduces the concept of equal measure cocktails, where each ingredient is used in the same proportion, resulting in a well-balanced and flavorful drink. He emphasizes the importance of balance in cocktails and how these seemingly simple drinks require skill and precision.
Crafting with Simplicity: Learn why equal measure cocktails are perfect for both home bartenders and professionals. Damian discusses the ease of remembering and crafting these drinks, making them ideal for entertaining guests or adding to a bar menu.
Classic Cocktails Explored:
Americano: A refreshing mix of Campari, sweet vermouth, and soda water.
Fifty-Fifty Martini: A perfectly balanced martini with equal parts gin and dry vermouth.
Negroni: The iconic blend of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, and its variations like the Boulevardier and Old Pal.
Brandy Alexander: A decadent dessert cocktail with cognac, crème de cacao, and cream.
Grasshopper: A minty, creamy treat perfect for after dinner.
Advanced Cocktails with Equal Measures:
The Last Word: A complex and herbal cocktail featuring gin, green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and lime juice.
Paper Plane: A modern classic with bourbon, Amaro Nonino, Aperol, and lemon juice, offering a refreshing and slightly bitter profile.
Experimentation Encouraged: Damian shares tips on how to experiment with these cocktails by swapping out ingredients using the “Mr. Potato Head” technique, allowing for endless variations while sticking to the equal measure principle.
Batching Made Easy: Discover how equal measure cocktails lend themselves perfectly to batching, making them ideal for parties and gatherings.

Connect with Us: Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for videos and tips on making these classic drinks.

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Next Episode

013: Exploring the Bramble: From Dick Bradsell’s Original to Modern Twists

In this episode of the Cocktail Academy Podcast, Damian Cole takes a deep dive into one of the most beloved cocktail recipes in the world: the Bramble cocktail. Created in 1989 by the legendary Dick Bradsell, the Bramble has become a staple in bars and restaurants globally. Damian explores the history of this modern classic cocktail, shares the original recipe, and discusses his own variations that make this drink even more versatile and delicious. Whether you’re a professional bartender or a home mixologist, this episode is packed with insights into making the perfect Bramble and experimenting with its ingredients.

Key Topics Discussed:

Origin of the Bramble Cocktail:

The story behind the creation of the Bramble by Dick Bradsell in London’s Soho at Fred’s Bar.
The inspiration for the Bramble’s name, rooted in Bradsell’s childhood memories of picking blackberries on the Isle of Wight.

Original Bramble Cocktail Recipe:

A detailed breakdown of the classic Bramble recipe, including London Dry Gin, freshly squeezed lemon juice, rich simple syrup, and creme de mure (blackberry liqueur).
Step-by-step instructions on how to create the original Bramble, complete with tips on garnishing and presentation.

Modern Variations of the Bramble:

Damian’s personal twist on the Bramble, including the use of lime juice instead of lemon juice for a slightly more aggressive flavor.
The benefits of using cube dice instead of crushed ice in professional bar settings and how it affects the drink’s balance and texture.
Incorporating fresh blackberries into the shaker for a deeper color and more robust flavor.

Creative Alternatives and Riffs:

Suggestions for substituting gin with other spirits like tequila or rum to create unique Bramble variations.
Exploring different liqueurs such as creme de cassis or even apricot liqueur to put a new spin on the classic.

Expert Tips for Bartenders and Cocktail Enthusiasts:

The importance of selecting the right gin and liqueur brands for the Bramble.
Advice on using fresh versus dehydrated garnishes and the impact of these choices on the final drink.

Quotable Moments:

"The Bramble is essentially a gin sour with a quintessentially British twist—simple, delicious, and timeless." – Damian Cole
"Whether you’re sticking to tradition or adding your own flair, the Bramble’s versatility makes it a favorite for bartenders and cocktail lovers alike." – Damian Cole

Host Contact Information:

Instagram: @WeLoveCocktails
TikTok: @WeLoveCocktailsx

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to the Cocktail Academy Podcast on your favorite platform. Don’t forget to leave a review and share this episode with your friends who love cocktails and mixology. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for more cocktail recipes and inspiration!

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