Some whiskey blogs have helped me sort out whether or not I might like a whiskey, or educated me about some new (or old) distillery. This blog has helped me in ways I can’t begin to count. In 2012 (only six years ago, but feels way longer) I reached out to Richard to ask for more information about a post that mentioned the ‘Georgia Bourbon Society’. I had done much of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail the year before, and was still pretty new to whiskey in general. He recommended I get on StraightBourbon.com for more information, which I did. Long story short – I can trace more friendships than I can shake a stick at to this whiskey blog, not to mention countless evenings spent with amazing people and some pretty good whiskey.
When Richard asked me if I’d be interested in helping out with some reviews a couple years later, I jumped at the opportunity. Not only did I get to try some new, cool, interesting (ok – sometimes ‘meh’) whiskies, it helped me identify and appreciate different flavors, aromas, textures – and learn more about what I like. Any time he mentions that he has a sample for me, I get excited and can’t wait for the chance to try it and do my best to capture the experience in a review.
So when Richard asked me if I’d be interested in taking on a more active role with the stewardship of the site, I jumped to my phone to google “stewardship”, and then said absolutely. What he and Matt built here is extraordinary, and I’m looking forward to keeping it going. I’m a big believer in “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”, so you won’t see a lot of changes around here. What you will continue to see are guys who love whiskey and love proselytizing the way of the malt. I hope you enjoy reading it – whether it is to answer a question, research a potential purchase, or help figure out what you might or might not like.
Cheers!
Gary