@RolexWhisky – Blog
The Cooperage Business, Whiskey Barrel Sourcing, and Industry Innovations
Gavin welcomes Jessica Ann Zimlich and Zach Zimlich of ZAK Cooperage, discussing their family business history, which started in 1990. Zach's upbringing in the cooperage provided him with creative control over whiskey flavor profiles. The conversation covered the...
The Modern Whiskey Market: Critique and the Enduring Value of People and Experience
Dawn Davies, the buying director for The Whiskey Exchange, talks to Gavin about the modern whiskey market and raises issues such as overcharging customers, releasing substandard, non-age statement liquid, and using excessive packaging that shifts focus from the...
The Lofted Spirits Journey: A Conversation on Whiskey Appreciation and Industry Evolution with Brandon Smith
Gavin Linde welcomed Brandon Smith, the National Brand Activation Manager for Lofted Spirits, shared their professional background and their introduction to whiskey, emphasizing the importance of memories and friendships in whiskey appreciation. They discussed the...
Educated Consumers and Barrel Pick Challenges with Chris Blandford
Gavin Linde and Chris Blandford discussed the significant changes in the whiskey market, highlighting a new era where consumers are more educated and prioritize quality. This shift has also brought challenges, particularly with barrel picks, where palate fatigue makes...
The Evolution of Hong Kong’s Whiskey Scene and the Hong Kong Whiskey Festival
Gavin Linde introduced Lars Rucker from Hong Kong, known for Tiffany's Bar and the Hong Kong Whiskey Festival, as a guest on the Rolex Whiskey podcast. Lars discussed the evolution of the whiskey scene in Hong Kong and China, the growth of Tiffany's New York Bar's...
100th Episode Celebration with Michter’s Master Distiller Dan McKee
Gavin celebrates the milestone of 100 episodes by welcoming a special guest: Dan McKee, Master Distiller at Michter's Distillery. McKee, a longtime friend and industry peer, shares his journey into the world of whiskey, beginning with casual sips as a young man before...


