Shows
The Cocktail AcademyThe Whiskey Bible with Noah RothbaumThis week, we sit down with one of the most influential voices in modern drinks journalism — Noah Rothbaum, author, editor, historian, and the man behind some of the most important cocktail publications of the last 20 years.From bringing a mystery bottle to Dale DeGroff, to co-editing The Oxford Companion to Spirits & Cocktails with David Wondrich, Noah shares his personal journey through the golden age of modern cocktail writing — and gives us a peek behind the curtain at his latest release, The Whiskey Bible.We talk about the pivotal role of bars like Pegu Club and the...
2025-09-1049 min
Pizza Pod PartyPizza and Drinks Spectacular! w/John Holl, Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichIt's the Pizza Pod Party pizza and drinks special with three notable drink experts. John Holl, Noah Rothbaum, and David Wondrich!John Holl is the editor of All About Beer, he hosts the Drink Beer, Think Beer podcast, and co-hosts Steal This Beer podcast. He is the author of numerous books including “Drink Beer, Think Beer” and “The Craft Brewery Cookbook”.Noah Rothbaum, he was the co-host of the Life Behind Bars podcast. He’s the former editor of The Daily Beast’s award winning Half Full section. Noah is the author of “The Art of American Wh...
2024-04-021h 09
Fix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastThe Spectacular Rebirth of Rye - Fix Me a DrinkNot long ago, we nearly lost rye whiskey. For decades, the historic whiskey was barely made in the United States, and most drinkers and bartenders had never tasted it.
Just when it seemed that rye might disappear for good, a small miracle occurred. Thanks to a grassroots effort, Rittenhouse Rye became available for sale in New York and helped kick off the whisky’s dramatic and improbable comeback as well as the modern cocktail revolution.
On this episode of Fix Me a Drink, hosts Noah Rothbaum and David Wondrich discuss the rebirth of rye and are joined by Heaven Hill’s We...
2024-03-2148 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastThe Case for Drinking Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon - Fix Me a DrinkOn March 3, 1897, the United States Congress passed the Bottled-in-Bond Act, which irrevocably changed the future of American whiskey.
The legislation established a designation that brands could use to differentiate their spirits from those that were basically knockoffs—neutral grain spirit flavored and colored with a range of deleterious ingredients. It also established rigorous production standards for distillers, who still must follow these regulations when making bottled-in-bond bourbon.
On this episode of Fix Me a Drink, hosts Noah Rothbaum and David Wondrich discuss the history of the Bottled-in-Bond Act and why it's still relevant today over glasses of Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond Bo...
2024-03-1236 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastThe Science of Bourbon - Fix Me a DrinkWhile making whiskey is definitely an art, it is also definitely a science.
On this special episode of Fix Me a Drink hosts Noah Rothbaum and David Wondrich delve into the actual science involved in whiskey making and how subtle differences can have huge effects on the finished product. They are joined by special guest Dr. Pat Heist, co-founder of Wilderness Trail Distillery in Danville, Kentucky. Over glasses of Wilderness Trail Wheated Bourbon, Dr. Heist gives them a master class on the chemistry, biology and physics involved in whiskey production and shares how he went from being a medical school...
2023-12-1942 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastMexico’s Cocktail Revolution - Fix Me a DrinkFrom Mexico City, to Oaxaca to Guadalajara to Juárez, over the last decade Mexico’s cocktail scene has become red hot.
On this special live recording of Fix Me a Drink, hosts Noah Rothbaum and David Wondrich delve into the tequila trends driving the country’s thriving cocktail culture as well as discuss the revolutionary new tequila category Cristalino. They are joined by special guests Benjamin Padrón, co-founder of the award-winning Mexico City bar Licoreria Limantour, and Jaime Salas, Proximo Spirits Head of Advocacy, Agave.
Over glasses of Cristalino tequila, they talk about the history of drinks in Mexico...
2023-12-0737 min
My Tiny Bottles with Tammy CoxenTasting Tiny Turkey with Noah RothbaumLast episode I told you about my tiny bottle of Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon, and this episode you can find out how it tastes! My guest is Noah Rothbaum, author of The Art of American Whiskey and co-host (with David Wondrich) of the podcasts Life Behind Bars and Fix Me a Drink. Noah and I talk about why Wild Turkey is a New York City whiskey and what's changed between when this tiny bottle was filled in 1979 and us drinking it in 2023!
Check out this episode on mytinybottles.com for the video.
Want more Tammy? Check ou...
2023-10-1017 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastA Bourbon that Has Stood the Test of Time - Fix Me a DrinkWe’re in a new golden age of American whiskey with numerous distilleries across the country producing a veritable river of bourbon and rye. But only a few of these brands date back to the original golden age of distillation that occurred more than a century ago.
On this episode of Fix Me a Drink, hosts Noah Rothbaum and David Wondrich focus on one of these stalwarts, Four Roses Bourbon, which dates back 135 years. They are joined by the brand’s master distiller, Brent Elliot. Over glasses of bourbon, the trio discusses the whiskey’s rich history and its unique produc...
2023-08-3032 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastThe Art of Drinking Scotch in the Summer - Fix Me a DrinkFrom snowstorms to freezing rain to sleet, Scotch is the quintessential whisky of winter. So when it’s hazy, hot and humid, should you drink something else?
Well, before you make a hasty switch, first listen to the new episode of Fix Me a Drink. Hosts Noah Rothbaum and David Wondrich discuss how they like to drink Scotch in the summer and how the whisky first became popular in America thanks to, of all things, sports.
They’ll also be joined by The Glen Grant’s Master Distiller Dennis Malcolm to sip some of the brand’s delicious 21-year-old single malt and...
2023-08-1631 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastThe Perfect Whiskey Pairing - Fix Me a DrinkThere are few things that go together better than a beer and a shot of whiskey.
It’s a truly old-school pairing and it’s also a favorite order of our Fix Me a Drink hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum. On the latest episode of their podcast, they share their advice for matching spirits with beer and talk about some delicious Boilermaker combinations they’ve enjoyed over the years.
So pour yourself a shot and a beer and listen to this new episode of Fix Me a Drink. Cheers!
Fix Me a Drink is hosted by Flaviar’s resident liquor e...
2023-07-1221 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastThrow a Summer Party like a Pro with Chef Amanda Freitag - Fix Me a DrinkOn the hit Food Network TV show Chopped, celebrity chef Amanda Freitag judges amazingly creative menus that contestants cobble together using an unusual mix of ingredients. But when it comes to summer entertaining, her own tastes run fairly classic: hot dogs, potato salad and punch.
On this episode of Fix Me a Drink, Freitag joins hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum to talk about ideal seasonal food-and-drink pairings and some of her favorite warm-weather cocktail recipes.
So fix yourself a drink and listen to this new episode of Fix Me a Drink. Cheers!
Fix Me a Drink is hosted by...
2023-06-2635 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastWhere to Drink in London & Paris Now - Fix Me a DrinkFor the first summer in years, there is an actual travel season. Fix Me a Drink hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum are looking forward to visiting bars around the world, from old favorites to new finds.
On this first globetrotting episode, the hosts chat over flutes of Champagne and pints of British beer about the establishments they want to drink in when they’re in London and Paris next. They also talk about the historic drinking cultures of these two legendary cities and what they like most about it all.
So fix yourself a drink and listen to this ne...
2023-06-1234 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastThe Cocktail Codes All Bartenders Need to Know - Fix Me a DrinkThe internet holds a seemingly endless number of cocktail recipes, but most drinks are created by following just a handful of basic formulas. Once you know the key ratios, you can unlock a whole world of possibilities.
On this episode of Fix Me a Drink, hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum welcome award-winning author Michael Ruhlman to discuss his new book, “The Book of Cocktail Ratios: The Surprising Simplicity of Classic Cocktails.” The trio chats about recipe families and the similarities (and differences) between bartending and cooking.
So mix yourself a cocktail and listen to this new episode of Fix Me a...
2023-05-3040 min
Fix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastSearching for the Soul of Rye Whiskey - Fix Me a DrinkEvery week it seems like another new rye whiskey is introduced, featuring a range of novel ingredients and innovative production techniques. But this begs the important questions: What should rye whiskey taste like? And what is the authentic way to produce it?
On this episode of Fix Me a Drink, hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum are joined by author and whiskey expert Lew Bryson to discuss these important conundrums. While enjoying some whiskey, they also talk about some of their favorite new rye brands.
So mix yourself a rye cocktail and listen to this new episode of Fix Me...
2023-05-1539 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastThe Invented History of Navy Strength Gin - Fix Me a DrinkFor years, a number of British and American gin brands have touted so-called navy strength gin, which is a robust 57 percent alcohol by volume. As legend has it, the Royal Navy demanded that the gin be bottled at a very high proof so if it ever spilled on the ship’s supply of black powder, the powder would still light.
There’s just one major problem: There is no record of the Royal Navy ever officially giving gin to its sailors.
On this episode of Fix Me a Drink, hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum try to get to the bott...
2023-04-2438 min
Fix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastSolving the Greatest Cocktail Mysteries - Fix Me a DrinkWhile most cocktail recipes are well known, the formulas for a number of drinks were kept top secret by their creators.
On this episode Fix Me a Drink, hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum are joined by Jeff Beachbum Berry, owner of New Orlean’s acclaimed bar Latitude 29 and author of Beachbum Berry's Sippin' Safari, to discuss cracking the code of classified cocktail recipes. Berry spent years trying to decipher the recipe for Don the Beachcomber's signature tiki drink the Zombie, which was encrypted so none of his competitors could steal it.
So mix yourself a drink and listen to th...
2023-04-1040 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastDrinking with Boston Marathon Champ Des Linden - Fix Me a DrinkIt’s no secret that Des Linden is one of the world’s best long-distance runners. In 2018, she became the first American woman to win the Boston Marathon in more than 30 years. Her gritty performance that day through driving rain and high winds was one for the history books. She followed that up with two Olympic marathon appearances, and then smashed the world record for the 50K distance in 2021. But what might be less well known about Linden is that she’s a big fan of bourbon.
On this episode of Fix Me a Drink, hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothba...
2023-03-2729 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastWhen Your Family’s Business is Bourbon - Fix Me a DrinkMore than 40 years ago, Eddie Russell started working at Wild Turkey’s distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. Ultimately, he became master distiller and created some of the brand’s most well-known whiskies. In 2010, he was inducted into the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame. It’s not unexpected—or even surprising—that he would have such a long and prolific career. Incredibly, Eddie’s father, bourbon legend Jimmy Russell, has been working at the Wild Turkey distillery even longer, starting there on September 10, 1954.
On this episode of Fix Me a Drink, Eddie joins hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum to talk about what it was...
2023-03-1537 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastThe Secrets of Scotland’s Best-Selling Scotch - Fix Me a DrinkIn Scotland, Famous Grouse is way more than just a best-selling whisky. It’s an integral part of the country’s national identity.
So it was big news last summer when the brand appointed Craig Johnstone as its new master blender. On this episode of Fix Me a Drink, Johnstone joins hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum to talk about how he makes Famous Grouse and the history of its recipe that dates back to the late 1800s.
So pour yourself a glass of whisky and listen to this new episode of Fix Me a Drink. Sláinte!
Fix Me a Dri...
2023-03-0639 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastCan you stock a home bar for $150 or less? - Fix Me a DrinkPrices for many spirits brands have skyrocketed over the last few years. So can you still stock a home bar without breaking the bank? Are there any liquor bargains left?
On this episode of Fix Me a Drink, hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum challenge each other to find five high-quality spirits that are sold on the Flaviar website that total $150 or less. (Shipping and tax not included.)
So listen to this new episode to find out if David and Noah were successful and what five bottles made it onto their respective shopping lists. They also reveal their all-time favorite...
2023-02-1533 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastThe World’s Most Famous Whisky Poet - Fix Me a DrinkWinter in Scotland is cold, gray, and seemingly never ending. But one the highlights of the bleak season is the birthday of Scotland’s national poet Robert Burns. Centuries after his birth, folks still gather to joyously recite his poems, eat haggis and, of course, drink Scotch.
In honor of Burns' birthday, Flaviar recently partnered with Highland Park Whisky to hold a contest to find the best original poems about Scotch. On this episode of Fix Me a Drink, hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum are joined by Martin Markvardsen, the Senior Brand Ambassador for Highland Park, to announce the th...
2023-02-0823 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastThe Dead Rabbit is Taking Over the World - Fix Me a DrinkThe winter of 2013 was one of the worst times in modern history to open a bar in New York City.
Manhattan was still reeling from Hurricane Sandy, especially the southern tip of the island, which had been battered by destructive high winds and corrosive flood waters. The Dead Rabbit was no exception—the establishment’s ancient building sits just a couple of blocks away from New York Harbor and was damaged in the storm. But despite these less than ideal conditions, the bar opened in February of that year and grew into a massive success within the Big Apple’s notori...
2023-01-2332 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastThe Dirty Little Secret of Classic Cocktails - Fix Me a DrinkThe Boulevardier, the Last Word and the Pegu Club are some of the most popular drinks today. But while they date back decades, they weren’t actually popular when they debuted. So are these classic cocktails really classics?
On this episode of Fix Me a Drink, hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum discuss these and other so-called sleeper recipes with Robert Simonson, the author of the new book “Modern Classic Cocktails.” The trio explores why these recipes weren’t famous back in the day and why they grew into best-sellers only in the last few years.
So make yourself a “classic” c...
2023-01-1146 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastThrow a Holiday Party like a Pro with Melissa Clark - Fix Me a DrinkIt’s been years since we’ve had a proper old-fashioned holiday party season, so no doubt we’re all a bit rusty when it comes to the art of hospitality.
To help you celebrate like a pro, Fix Me a Drink’s acclaimed hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum are joined by best-selling cookbook author Melissa Clark. She shares her personal strategy for hosting parties and the dishes she likes to serve a crowd. The trio also discuss the perfect holiday drinks and some epic failures, like a flaming punch that went wrong. (Flaming drinks are definitely best left for the...
2022-12-1739 min
Fix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastRemastering a Legendary Scotch Whisky Blend - Fix Me a DrinkHow do you put your own spin on a classic Scotch whisky? This was the challenge facing Dewar’s award-winning master blender Stephanie Macleod who was tasked with giving the brand’s well-known 12-year-old Scotch an update. Don’t change it enough and no one will notice the difference, but if you go too far it will be unrecognizable.
On this episode of Fix Me a Drink, acclaimed hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum discuss with Macleod how she was able to remaster the whisky while preserving Dewar’s house style. The trio also discusses the art of blending, including Macleod’...
2022-12-0530 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastYes, Eggnog Can Actually be Delicious - Fix Me a Drink‘Tis the season to discuss an important and controversial holiday cocktail: Eggnog.
While the creamy concoction, which does indeed include plenty of eggs, often gets a bad rap, the classic version is incredibly delicious. The real problem? Most folks buy the pre-made supermarket stuff (a reported 135 million pounds of it each year)—and that just won’t cut it.
To help you fix a bowl of proper Eggnog this holiday season, Fix Me a Drink’s acclaimed hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum chat with legendary bartender Dale DeGroff. He shares his family’s famous bourbon Eggnog recipe, as well as his own...
2022-11-3030 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastYou’ll Never Go Thirsty in New Orleans - Fix Me a DrinkGiven that New Orlean is home to a multitude of cocktails, from the Sazerac to the Ramos Gin Fizz to the Hurricane, you’d think a great book about the city’s drinks and drinking culture would already exist. In our humble opinion, we’ve found one: Neal Bodenheimer and Emily Timberlake just released the instant classic “Cure: New Orleans Drinks and How to Mix Them.”
On this episode of Fix Me a Drink, award-winning hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum sit down with Bodenheimer to discuss his new book as well as his ground-breaking Nola cocktail bar, Cure. The trio also...
2022-11-1435 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastThe Best Cocktails & Spirits for Fall - Fix Me a DrinkFall can be one of the most frustrating times of year for a cocktail and spirits drinker. Warm and summery one day, cool and wintery the next—the seasonal whiplash is almost enough to make you drink some kind of ridiculous pumpkin spice concoction. Fortunately, on this episode of Fix Me a Drink, award-winning hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum share their favorite drinks for fall and come up with some unique solutions for the fluctuations in weather.
So throw on your favorite fall sweater and listen to this new episode of Fix me a Drink. Cheers!
Fix Me a Dr...
2022-11-0324 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastA Whisky Master Class with Dave Broom - Fix Me a DrinkIf you love drinking Scotch, you need to read Dave Broom’s books on the subject. He has been writing about whisky and spirits for more than two decades and has single handedly created a veritable library of work. His latest book, “A Sense of Place: A Journey Around Scotland’s Whisky,” is a heartfelt tribute to the folks who create Scotch and the country where it is made.
Broom joins Fix Me a Drink hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum to discuss his new book, trends in the whiskey industry, and what we can learn from a fascinating collection of histo...
2022-10-1741 min
Fix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastThe Mai Tai is Proof that God Loves Us & Wants Us to Be Happy - Fix Me a DrinkWas it Trader Vic or Don the Beachcomber who created the best-selling tiki cocktail the Mai Tai? It’s one of the great drinks debates, but no matter who came up with this recipe, we can all agree that it's delicious.
On this episode of Fix Me a Drink, award-winning hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum discuss the origins of the Mai Tai, including its first write-up in print and its role in mid-century cocktail culture. For this spirited discussion, they are joined by Shannon Mustipher, an award-winning bartender and author of “Tiki: Modern Tropical Cocktails.”
Mix up a Mai Tai an...
2022-10-0329 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastAmerica’s Best Cocktail Cities, Then and Now - Fix Me a DrinkThere’s only one thing that cocktail drinkers love more than having a drink: talking about the bartending scenes in rival cities and towns.
Inspired by an opinionated 1902 newspaper story about the quality of cocktails across the country, on this episode of Fix Me a Drink, award-winning hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum discuss the state of regional drinks in the U.S. today and what they’d love to see in the future.
The drink of the episode is one of their old favorites, a classic New York Sour. Mix up a drink and listen now. Cheers!
New York Sour...
2022-09-1940 min
Fix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastWhy Can’t Hollywood Movies Get Bartending Right? - Fix Me a DrinkThere is seemingly no detail too small for big-budget movies to get right–except bartending, that is. While lots of films depict bartenders at work, few of them get the details correct.
On this episode of Fix Me a Drink, award-winning hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum discuss the history of bartending on film while enjoying classic Moscow Mules–a drink that was actually created in Los Angeles. They are joined by expert bartenders and raconteurs Jeffrey Morgenthaler, who runs the bar Pacific Standard in Portland, Oregon, and Eric Alperin from the famed L.A. bar the Varnish. Cheers!
The Mosc...
2022-08-3037 minFix Me a Drink with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich PodcastFix Me a Drink Podcast TeaserTwo of the world’s foremost drinks experts are launching a new podcast called Fix Me a Drink. Over a drink, Dave Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum will look at the trends, history and personalities behind your favorite cocktails and spirits. They’ll also explore the fascinating drinking roots of larger society and pop culture. The award-winning duo will bring their signature blend of knowledge and engaging conversation to this new show.
2022-08-2600 min
The Cocktail Guru ShowTCG EP 12 - Master of Masters with David WondrichOn this episode of THE COCKTAIL GURU PODCAST James Beard Award-winning drinks historian David Wondrich, author of Imbibe! and Punch, landmark works that rediscovered and rescued cocktail history, chronicles his circuitous journey from English professor with a PhD in comparative literature to the world's leading authority on drinking with hosts Jonathan & Jeffrey Pogash.
GUEST BIO
David Wondrich is widely hailed as one of the world’s foremost authorities on the history of the cocktail and one of the people who helped to shape the modern craft cocktail movement. Senior Drinks Columnist at The Daily Beast, Dr...
2022-03-0354 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichThe Birth of Luxury Spirits - Life Behind Bars: The Oxford CompanionThe launch of Grand Marnier in the late 1800s helped to establish a new standard for luxury liquor brands. The Cognac-and-orange liqueur also inspired the creation of several delicious cocktails, including the original version of the Bijou. On this special episode of Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum discuss the origin of Grand Marnier, why citrus was so sought-after at the time, and the important role Paris played in creating global trends. This discussion is inspired by entries in Wondrich and Rothbaum’s brand-new book, The Oxford Companion to Spirits & Cocktails, which feat...
2021-12-3119 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichHow the Margarita Became a Cocktail Sensation - Life Behind Bars: The Oxford CompanionEveryone has heard at least one story about how the Margarita came to be—at last count, there were seven credible origin stories. On this special episode of Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum explore the possible stories behind the Margarita’s invention, as well as a groundbreaking advertising campaign by José Cuervo that made the drink a household name. This discussion is inspired by entries in Wondrich and Rothbaum’s brand-new book, The Oxford Companion to Spirits & Cocktails, which features more than 1,100 entries from 150 expert contributors. So fix yourse...
2021-12-3121 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichA Look Inside the Oxford Companion to Spirits & Cocktails - Life Behind Bars: The Oxford CompanionFor nearly ten years, Life Behind Bars co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum have been working on a special project: The Oxford Companion to Spirits & Cocktails. A few weeks ago, the nearly 900-page book debuted with more than 1,100 entries from 150 contributors. On this special episode, Wondrich and Rothbaum take you behind the scenes of this massive book to talk about how it came to be and how they put it together. This kicks off a short mini-series of episodes inspired by the Oxford Companion. So fix yourself a cocktail and listen to t...
2021-12-2410 min
The Post Shift Podcast with Shawn SooleEpisode #145 - David Wondrich, Award Winning Bar History AuthorWhat an amazing opportunity this was for me, having the opportunity to speak with David Wondrich from his humble beginnings as a junior professor to one of the most prolific hospitality history researcher in the world. Apart from the books, he has helped develop multiple award winning spirits with brands, rebirthing long dead spirits and categories. He just released the Oxford Companion of Spirits and Cocktails with Noah Rothbaum, a ten year labor of love that is the modern encyclopedia of everything drinks related. Get a copy today.
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2021-12-0349 min
The DealDrinks With The Deal: Spirits Experts David Wondrich and Noah RothbaumOn the latest edition of Drinks With The Deal, David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum discuss their work editing the new Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails, which considers at length the companies, entrepreneurs and trends that have driven the alcohol business.
2021-11-0444 minThe DealDrinks With The Deal: Spirits Experts David Wondrich and Noah RothbaumOn the latest edition of Drinks With The Deal, David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum discuss their work editing the new Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails, which considers at length the companies, entrepreneurs and trends that have driven the alcohol business.
2021-11-0444 min
Bartender at LargeWriting the Definitive Book on Cocktails w David Wondrich & Noah Rothbaum | ep. 271This week we are joined by, David Wondrich & Noah Rothbaum, the authors of the The Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails, which is released this week on November 4th. The book is important as it is the first major reference work to cover spirits and cocktails from a global perspective, and provides an authoritative overview that spans nearly 900 pages. Be sure to turn in and hear how about how the book came together, exactly how much work went into, and what you can expect to learn from it's well-researched pages. Learn more about Diageo Bar Academy: https...
2021-11-0133 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichThe Next Cocktail Book Collecting Obsession - Life Behind BarsPeople have been writing about drinks as long as they’ve been enjoying them. And with the rebirth of the cocktail during the last 20 years, prices for vintage drinks books have risen dramatically and bargains are much harder to find. On this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum are joined by two experts—antiquarian bookseller Lizzy Young and Oxford-educated sociologist and Pomp & Whimsy Gin Liqueur founder Dr. Nicola Nice—to talk about cocktail book collecting and some newly discovered and undervalued volumes. (Yes, drinks books exist that even Dav...
2021-09-3036 min
The Modern Bar Cart PodcastDavid Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum on "The Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails"In this wide-ranging conversation with Noah Rothbaum and David Wondrich, some of the topics we cover include: How Dave transitioned from English professor, to Esquire columnist, to full-fledged cocktail historian, and how that journey brought him to collaborate with Noah at The Daily Beast and on their current Oxford Companion project. The difference between writing about spirits and cocktails in the early 2000s vs. today, and how our relationship to "The Truth" (in quotes here) is different than it was during those early days of our great cocktail revival. Why long-form booze writing has (paradoxically) spawned a lot...
2021-08-121h 13
Hospitality ForwardEpisode #33 - Noah Rothbaum, Editor, The Daily Beast’s “Half Full”In this episode, Hanna Lee and Michael Anstendig of Hanna Lee Communications chat with Noah Rothbaum, Editor of The Daily Beast’s “Half Full” section, which won a Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Award for Best Cocktail & Spirits Publication. Noah also hosts the podcast, “Life Behind Bars,” with legendary cocktail historian David Wondrich, which earned a Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Award for Best Podcast Series. In addition, Noah is the author of “The Art of American Whiskey” and “The Business of Spirits” and he is Associate Editor of “The Oxford Companion to Spirits and Coc...
2021-04-2825 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichSingle Malt Battle Royale: The U.S. vs. Scotland - Life Behind BarsScotland has claimed ownership of single malt whiskey for years. But the spirit is now made around the world, including in the U.S., which boasts a thriving industry of its own. Can Scotland maintain its supremacy in the face of ever more competition? On this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum are joined by Matt Hofmann, co-founder, managing director, and head distiller of Westland Whiskey; Becky Paskin, award-winning Half Full columnist; and Iain McPherson, pioneering Edinburgh-based bartender and bar owner. While enjoying a dram of whiskey, t...
2020-12-2153 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichBuilding a Whiskey Empire in 85 Years - Life Behind BarsIn December of 1935, America’s whiskey industry was on life support.While Prohibition was finally over, the future for distillers was, to say the least, incredibly bleak. After 13 long years of being out of business, would people still want to drink bourbon and rye? Would the Great Depression ever end? Would the temperance movement succeed in getting Prohibition reinstated?In the midst of these turbulent times, entrepreneurs saw an opportunity. The Shapira family, which ran a small chain of five-and-dime stores across Kentucky, took a leap of faith and invested in a nascent wh...
2020-12-1130 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichIs it Sacrilege to Use 15-Year-Old Bourbon in Cocktails? - Life Behind BarsIt takes courage to create cocktails with older whiskies, but it’s more than worth the effort.To help you overcome your fears of ruining a dram, on this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum share some tips and advice for using mature spirits in mixed drinks along with a chaser of spirited history.They are also joined by Knob Creek® ambassadors Amanda Gunderson and Tim Heuisler who offer insights and their favorite recipes featuring older bourbons.So fix yourself a whiskey coc...
2020-12-0937 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David Wondrich’Tis the Season for Hot Cocktails - Life Behind BarsFor far too long, hot cocktails have been lumped in with dessert drinks and made increasingly sweeter with honey, sugar, cider and even ice cream. But the classic recipes for these steaming concoctions are, in fact, not overly sweet—and quite delicious. So delicious, in fact, that it’s time to give hot cocktails another shot.On this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum discuss the origins of these warming cocktails and how they have evolved over time, as well as share their favorite recipes for the Hot Todd...
2020-11-2226 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichHow Kentucky Bourbon Distillers Saved Their Archrival Rye Whiskey - Life Behind BarsOnce upon a time, there were bourbon drinkers and there were rye whiskey drinkers. You couldn’t be both.When the rye industry fell apart in the second half of the 20th century and its distilleries, located in the mid-Atlantic states, faltered and ultimately disappeared, an unexpected savior stepped in: bourbon distillers. As a result, rye has been made in the heart of Kentucky bourbon country for decades.On this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum are joined by Knob Creek© Bourbon ambassadors Beth Burrows and...
2020-11-1039 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichMeet Dale DeGroff, the Father of the Rebirth of the Cocktail - Life Behind BarsDale DeGroff is a storyteller, teacher, mentor, bon vivant and consummate host. He is also responsible for changing how people around the world drink by starting the modern golden age of cocktails.On this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum are joined by DeGroff to talk about the new edition of his seminal book, The Craft of the Cocktail, and what’s next for cocktails and spirits.So fix yourself a drink and listen to this episode of Life Behind Bars. Cheers!Life Be...
2020-10-2335 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichWhat’s Next for Bars? - Life Behind Bars: What I’ve LearnedThe coronavirus pandemic has managed to affect nearly every facet of life in America. Bars are certainly not exempt and the industry will find itself dealing with the repercussions of the pandemic for years to come. So how will this unprecedented period change the layout of bars and how they function? On this special episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum talk to three top bartenders—Alexis Brown from Chicago, Ivy Mix from New York, and Jeffrey Morgenthaler from Portland, Oregon—about what the near future holds. So m...
2020-09-1628 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichThe Modern Cocktail Menu - Life Behind Bars: What I’ve LearnedDuring times like these, how are bars across the country changing their drinks menus? Is it better to go with tried-and-true classics or to offer innovative and creative concoctions?On this special episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum talk to three top bartenders—Claire Sprouse from New York, Erick Castro from San Diego and Omar Yeefoon from Dallas—about what folks want to drink now and how the pandemic has changed the thought process behind putting together menus. So mix yourself a drink and listen to th...
2020-09-0930 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichStaffing Up During a Pandemic - Life Behind Bars: What I’ve LearnedIf hiring, training and managing a staff is one of the hardest parts of running a bar, try doing it during a pandemic.On this special episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum talk to three top bartenders—Ryan Fitzgerald from San Francisco, Anu Apte from Seattle and Derek Brown from Washington, D.C.—about their experiences during the coronavirus pandemic and how their roles and management styles have evolved. So mix yourself a drink and listen to this important episode of Life Behind Bars: What I’ve...
2020-09-0339 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichYes, There is an Official Bourbon Holiday - Life Behind BarsIf there was ever a time to have a glass of bourbon, now is it. Back in 2007, Congress passed a resolution declaring September National Bourbon Heritage Month. On this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum are joined by Trey Zoeller, founder of Jefferson’s Bourbon, to talk about why the month-long holiday was created and how to properly celebrate it.So fix yourself a glass of bourbon and listen to this episode of Life Behind Bars. Cheers!Life Behind Bars features Half Ful...
2020-09-0330 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichThe New World of To-Go Drinks - Life Behind Bars: What I’ve LearnedThanks to coronavirus closures, cities across the country have now allowed bars and restaurants to offer customers to-go drinks.On this special episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum talk to three top bartenders—Karl Franz Williams from New York, Christine Wiseman from Los Angeles, and Andrew Volk from Maine—about this important change in the bar industry. They discuss the new-found skills required to create to-go cocktails, as well as which drinks are (and aren’t) selling out.So mix yourself a drink and listen to thi...
2020-08-2832 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichThe Fight to Get People to Wear Face Masks in Bars - Life Behind Bars: What I’ve LearnedBartenders and bar owners are on the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic. And one of the greatest challenges facing them today is getting their customers to wear face masks. On this special episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum talk to three top bartenders—Neal Bodenheimer from New Orleans, Alex Jump from Denver and Masa Urushido from New York—about this important issue. They discuss how patrons have reacted to wearing masks in their establishments and offer advice on how to conduct these occasionally fraught conversations.So...
2020-08-2828 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichAre the Manhattan & the Martini the Same Cocktail? - Life Behind BarsThe Martini and the Manhattan are two of the bedrock drinks that hold up the entire world of cocktails. While both have their own lore, mythology and fans, they in fact may be essentially the same drink. On this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum discuss the origins of both drinks and how they evolved into distinct recipes. So mix yourself a Manhattan or a Martini and listen to this episode of Life Behind Bars. Cheers! Life Behind Bars fea...
2020-08-1923 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichFostering Diversity in the Beer & Spirits World - Life Behind BarsOn this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum are joined by Garrett Oliver, the head brewer at the Brooklyn Brewery. He recently became the founding board chair of the new Michael Jackson Foundation for Brewing & Distilling, which is named for the late legendary beer and whiskey writer. They discuss with Oliver his organization’s scholarship and mentorship program for black, indigenous, and people of color, and how he hopes these grants will shape the next generation of distillers and brewers in America. So, fix yourself a drink and...
2020-08-0532 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichCan Bars Survive the Pandemic? - Life Behind BarsThe coronavirus has the potential to decimate bars across America. Already a number of well-known establishments have announced that they won’t reopen and many others are struggling to stay afloat during these challenging times. On this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum are joined by Nate Whitehouse, co-founder of Thirst, to talk about his organization’s efforts to get insurance companies and the federal government to help bars stay in business. So, fix yourself a drink and listen to this episode of Life Beh...
2020-07-2222 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichGone but Not Forgotten: Bars We Wish Were Still Open - Life Behind BarsDavid Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum, the co-hosts of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, share the bars they wish were still open: From a pioneering 18th-century punch house to Jerry Thomas’ legendary New York bar to Dale DeGroff shaking up drinks in the Rainbow Room to the recently closed Pegu Club. Their virtual bar crawl across centuries and continents covers the establishments that they have long dreamt of visiting, as well as some modern personal favorites that are no more. Which bars do you wish you could go back in time to check out? Let the...
2020-07-0927 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichThe Bars We Can’t Wait to Visit Again - Life Behind BarsAfter months of sheltering in place, David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum, co-hosts of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, are daydreaming about visiting their favorite bars around the world.Listen in as they plan a bar crawl for the ages, which will hit New York, New Orleans, Detroit, Miami, Havana, Tequila, London, Paris and spots in between. Did they miss your favorite establishment? Let the hosts know on Twitter what bar you’d like to visit right now. So fix yourself a cocktail and listen to this episode of Life Behind Bars. Cheers!...
2020-06-2527 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichTest Case: Bars Are Reopening in New Orleans - Life Behind BarsAfter weeks of being closed for a mandatory coronavirus shutdown, bars in New Orleans have begun to reopen with limited capacity. On this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum are joined by Neal Bodenheimer, owner of James Beard Award-winning Nola bar Cure, to talk about his recent experiences reopening and the challenges that he’s had to overcome. So fix yourself a Sazerac and listen to this episode of Life Behind Bars. Cheers! Life Behind Bars features Half Full’s editor...
2020-06-1030 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 57 The Return of Cocktail HourSince the outbreak of the coronavirus, liquor store sales are up across the country with many folks fixing cocktails at home. On this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum discuss the return of America’s nightly cocktail hour and what people are mixing up. They also discuss the long-term effects of the coronavirus on the bar industry and how it might change after this pandemic is finished. So mix yourself a drink and listen to this episode of Life Behind Bars. Cheers!
2020-05-2725 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 56 The Bizarre History of Pandemic Cocktail CuresWhat happens when two committed bar flies can’t go to a bar? Find out on this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars. While sheltering in place at their respective homes, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum discuss the history of drinking during plagues and some of the cocktail cures that were created and popularized. (Spoiler alert: Rock and Rye doesn’t actually protect you from tuberculosis.) So fix yourself a drink and listen to this episode of Life Behind Bars. Cheers!Life Behind Bars features Half Full’s editor...
2020-05-2022 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 54 Toasting a Bourbon LegendYou should really have a whiskey today—but better make it a bottled-in-bond whiskey. Why? Congress enacted the Bottled-in-Bond Act on March 3, 1897, which set a new standard for American whiskey and ushered in a new era of consumer protections. On this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum, discuss the history of these important federal regulations and their modern implications. Wondrich and Rothbaum are joined by Beau Beckman, who runs the single-barrel program at Sazerac and is a descendant of bottled-in-bond advocate E.H. Taylor. So pour yourself a dram of bottled-in-bond whiskey an...
2020-03-0336 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 53 Fixing the Craft Cocktail MenuHaving trouble figuring out what to order in a craft cocktail bar? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. From exotic ingredients to wildly creative new concoctions, even for drinks experts picking a cocktail can be overwhelming at times. On this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum, discuss the problems of the modern drinks menu and how to fix them. They also talk about how the perfect balance between classic cocktails and new creations is essential for developing the next generation of best sellers. So before you head out to the bar for...
2020-02-2630 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 52 Remembering Legendary Drinks Writer Gary ReganLast fall, we lost award-winning drinks writer Gary Regan. He wrote numerous pioneering books, including "The Joy of Mixology," "The Bartender’s Bible" and "The Negroni," in addition to writing a column for Half Full and several other publications. Gary also traveled the globe educating, inspiring and entertaining a whole generation of bartenders, and that’s not to mention finger stirring thousands of Negronis!On this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum celebrate Gary’s life and work and share some of their favorite stories about him. They are joined by legendary barten...
2020-02-1142 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 50 The Year in Drinks: 2019Over the last 12 months, David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum have traveled the globe—from New York to New Orleans to Naples, Italy—visiting dozens of distilleries and bars and tasting countless cocktails and spirits. On this episode of their award-winning podcast, Life Behind Bars, the co-hosts talk about some of the highlights of the year, the spirited fights they got into online (and won), and a few things they’d like to see happen in 2020. So mix yourself a cocktail and toast 2019 by listening to this episode of Life Behind Bars features Half Full’s...
2019-12-3123 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars Live - Episode 49 The Unspoken History of Scotch WhiskyFor the first time ever, Life Behind Bars hosts Noah Rothbaum andDavid Wondrich have taken their award-winning podcast out of the studio to do a live recording in front of an audience in, of course, a bar. On this episode, they’re joined by veteran bartender and Dewar’s North American brand ambassador Gareth Howells and over glasses of whisky (what else did you expect?) they discuss the birth and evolution of blended Scotch and single malts. So fix yourself a Scotch and listen to this episode of Life Behind Bars. Cheers! Life Behind Bars features Half Full’s editor Noah R...
2019-12-1145 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 48 American Whiskey’s Miraculous Comeback StoryImagine a world without bourbon or rye whiskey.As terrifying as that scenario sounds, not that long ago, America was heading in that very direction. Only a trickle of rye was being made each year and bourbon brands were struggling to stay relevant and were precipitously losing market share. But just in the nick of time, American whiskey distillers were miraculously able to stage a successful comeback.On this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum, talk about how American whiskey brands lost their way and...
2019-11-2632 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 47 Death to Scotch SnobberyWhen did drinking Scotch get to be so damn complicated? There are rules, myths, legends and half-truths that are, for lack of a better term, absolute and utter shite. They can also unfortunately lead to Scotch shaming, preventing you from drinking what you really want to drink. (Bartender: Please just add a few ice cubes to my dram and hold the sanctimonious lecture about the sanctity of whisky’s purity.) Drinking whisky should, of course, be enjoyable. On this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum help you cut through the Scotch snobbery by...
2019-11-2229 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 46 The Undisputed Heavyweight Bar Champion: VodkaDrink trends come and go in America, but seemingly the one constant now is the unprecedented sale of vodka. Just how big is the spirit these days? Three out of every 10 bottles sold in America is vodka and the category is, unbelievably, still growing. It’s even more impressive given that 100 years ago, it wasn’t a contender and struggled to find a market. On this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum, talk about the secret to vodka’s unprecedented success and how it keeps defending its title. They are joined by Carl N...
2019-11-0727 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 45 From Zero to Hero: The Rise of Vodka CocktailsFrom the Moscow Mule and the Cosmopolitan to the Bloody Mary, it’s hard to find a bar that doesn’t serve at least one vodka cocktail…if not a dozen. While vodka seems like a thoroughly modern drink, it actually gained popularity after Prohibition, when Americans were thirsty for quality liquor after years of drinking alcohol of dubious origin. The spirit went on to reinvent itself for practically every successive generation and vodka continues to anchor best-selling drinks. On this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rot...
2019-10-0126 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 44 The Greatest Drinking City in America: New OrleansPractically since its founding some 300 years ago, New Orleans has had a famous bar scene. On this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum, talk about the city’s rich cocktail history and their current favorite bars in and around the French Quarter. They also share a few stories, offer some drinking advice and reveal what signature Nola cocktails they like to order. If you’re a fan of New Orleans (or its cocktails), you need to listen to this episode of Life Behind Bars. Cheers!
2019-09-2026 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 43 Is the Next Big Drink a Rum Old-Fashioned?The Cuba Libre is the king of rum cocktails, but is its reign as a best-seller under siege? On this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum discuss the recent global popularity of the rum Old-Fashioned and the new rum cocktails popping up on bar menus. Joining Wondrich and Rothbaum is Juan Coronado, category rum ambassador for Bacardi, who has bartended around New York and worked as cocktail innovator for celebrity chef José Andrés’s Think Food Group. Coronado called in from the rum route to d...
2019-08-1126 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 42 The Greatest American Whiskey MythWhiskey is now, of course, once again very popular but along with the adoration, the proliferation of bourbon bars and the ubiquity of the Old-Fashioned, comes an unintended side effect: nostalgia for a time that never existed.There is now a tendency among drinkers, bartenders, brands, writers and historians to glamorize the 19th century roots of American whiskey. Even worse there’s a popular idea that the way whiskey was made in the 1800s was pure and should be the model for today’s distillers. While there was certainly quality whiskey being sold at the time there was also a huge...
2019-07-3029 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 41 Everything You Always Wanted to Know About the NegroniAlong with the Vespa scooter and the Ferrari, the Negroni is one of Italy’s greatest modern inventions. The three-ingredients aperitif (the basic recipe is equal parts Campari, gin and sweet vermouth) has recently become a best-seller in America. But where did it come from? And why is it suddenly on just about every bar menu in the United States? On this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum, discuss the history of the Negroni and how it evolved over the last century. If you love Negronis, you need to listen to this ep...
2019-07-0526 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 39 Is Rum Finally Ready to Seriously Challenge Whiskey?After years of being lost in a sea of Coke and other mixers, rum is finally emerging as a sipping spirit. Is this a good thing or a bad thing? And can rum actually attract whiskey drinkers and collectors? On this episode of the award-winning podcast Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum discuss these developments, including the rise of collectible pot still rums and the associated snobbery, as well as the recent fiery debates on social media between rum aficionados. If you enjoy rum or whiskey, listen to this episode...
2019-05-0723 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 38 Are Dive Bars an Endangered Species?Before there were fancy craft cocktail bars, Americans learned to drink in dive bars. These humble establishments are a sacred tradition, dispensing affordable shots of potent whiskey and pints of cold beer to the thirsty masses. They likely date back to a subterranean Buffalo joint that opened in the mid-1800s along the banks of the city’s canal. Soon the term and style of bar spread across the United States. The popularity of dives usually ebbs and flows with the state of the country’s economy but they’ve always attracted a diverse and eclectic crowd. Sadly, in many c...
2019-03-2925 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 37 Drinking Your Way Across IrelandThere are few drinking institutions more revered or storied than the Irish pub. Traditionally, back in the old country, these bars were the center of their respective communities, often also serving as the post office, grocery store and, even, funeral home.On this episode of award-winning podcast, Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum are joined by Sean Muldoon and Tim Herlihy, the co-authors of the new book, “From Barley to Blarney: A Whiskey Lover’s Guide to Ireland,” to chat about the state of Ireland’s pubs and the secrets to pouring the perfect pint of Guinness. Muldoon...
2019-03-0931 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 36 Pushing the Boundaries of Single Malt Scotch WhiskyThe recipe for making Scotch is pretty simple: malted barley, water and yeast—that’s it. Talented distillers and blenders across Scotland transform these humble ingredients to produce delicious whisky. But Scotch is also one of the most heavily regulated spirits on the planet. The Scotch Whisky Association has very strict rules and regulations that you must follow if you want to call your spirit Scotch. (At the top of the list, of course, is that the whisky must be made and aged in Scotland!) As a result, whisky makers have to be very...
2019-02-1527 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 35 The Bastardization of the Hot ToddyThe Hot Toddy started out as a relatively simple drink: sugar, booze, hot water and possibly some grated nutmeg.Over the next roughly 300 years, that definition stretched to include a whole host of ingredients—everything from apple cider, honey and fresh lemon juice to a kitchen cabinet full of spices. While those drinks are certainly warming on a cold evening are they still a Hot Toddy?On this episode of award-winning podcast, Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum discuss the history of this hot cocktail and how it’s become a mess of a recipe.So put the...
2019-01-2721 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 34 Future Cocktails: What You’ll Be Drinking in 2019From spirits and craft beer to spiked seltzer, on this episode of award-winning podcast, Life Behind Bars, hosts Noah Rothbaum and David Wondrich looked into their crystal Martini glasses to divine what you’ll be drinking in 2019. The duo also dissect the biggest drinking trends of 2018, share some of the spirited events they’re looking forward to attending this year and forecast the future of a number of liquor categories. So pour fix yourself a drink and enjoy the discussion. Cheers! Life Behind Bars features Half Full’s editor Noah Rothba...
2019-01-1831 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 33 The Year in DrinksBefore the ball drops on New Year’s Eve listen to the year-end episode of podcast Life Behind Bars. Hosts Noah Rothbaum and David Wondrich recount the highs and lows of 2018, including some of the biggest bar openings of the year, the noteworthy new books that were published, their favorite Half Full stories and remember some friends who passed away this year. Pour yourself a glass of Champagne and enjoy the discussion. Cheers!Life Behind Bars features Half Full’s editor Noah Rothbaum and its Senior Drinks Columnist David Wondrich as they discuss the grea...
2018-12-2831 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 32 The Ultimate Holiday Party Drink: Cognac PunchForget the holiday season, it’s punch season! Seriously. For centuries, people have been making big bowls of Cognac punch for their friends and family. Why? It’s not only delicious but much easier to make than other traditional seasonal drinks, like Eggnog, Hot Buttered Run or Tom Jerry, and you can mix up a batch ahead of time. And when it comes to punch, there is no one more knowledgeable than David Wondrich. In fact, he wrote the book on the historic beverage.On this episode of Life Behind Bars, Wondrich and his co-host Noah Rothbaum discuss the origins of t...
2018-12-0822 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 31 The Wide World of WhiskeyFor decades, Kentucky, Scotland, Ireland and Canada dominated the whiskey business. Few bars carried any whiskies made anywhere else and that was really just fine with most drinkers. But over the last decade, these distilling stalwarts have been joined by an ever-growing international selection of bottles from India, Japan Scandinavia and seemingly everywhere in between. On this episode of Life Behind Bars co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum discuss this growing trend, share their favorite international whiskies and forecast where they see the business headed. (Spoiler alert: Are you ready for Italian whiskey?) So pour yourself a good dram and...
2018-11-2925 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 28 Everything You Know About the Sazerac is WrongThe legendary New Orleans drink had a lovely history about how it was originally made with Cognac, but thanks to the massive destruction wrought on European vineyards by phylloxera, Americans were forced to replace the French spirit with rye whiskey.Sadly, this history is not true. On this episode of Life Behind Bars, co-hosts David Wondrich and Noah Rothbaum discuss the complicated history of the Sazerac and try to finally set the record straight about its origins.Life Behind Bars features Half Full’s editor Noah Rothbaum and its Senior Drinks Columnist David Wondrich as they discuss the greatest bartenders an...
2018-08-2429 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 27 - Did Trump Curse New York’s Tiki Bars?During the winter of 1989, Donald Trump went to war with Trader Vic’s.The New York outpost of the famous tiki bar chain was located in the legendary Plaza Hotel, which Trump owned at the time. In an attempt to close the establishment, he reportedly said it had “gotten tacky.” He continued by saying “Trader Vic’s does not fit in with the image of the hotel that I want to achieve.”This lead to an uproar with even former President Richard Nixon issuing a statement about how much the bar meant to him and his family. Ultimately, Trader Vic’s closed and e...
2018-08-1625 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 26 - Your Summer Drink: The Tom CollinsThe beautiful simplicity of the Tom Collins recipe—gin, sugar, lemon juice and club soda—makes it hard to believe that someone had to actually convince the rest of us to give it a try. It’s the perfect drink for a hot summer afternoon.But the British bartender John Collin popularized the recipe in the early 19th century. Yes, it was originally called a John Collins but over time morphed and became known as a Tom Collins. It’s a good story full of odd twists and turns, and is the subject of the new episode of podcast Life Behind B...
2018-07-1224 min
The SpeakeasyEpisode 292: Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichNoah Rothbaum is the editor of The Daily Beast’s Half Full section. He also hosts the podcast Life Behind Bars with legendary cocktail historian David Wondrich.
In addition, Rothbaum is the author of the book The Art of American Whiskey: A Visual History of the Nation’s Most Storied Spirit, through 100 Iconic Labels and the associate editor of the forthcoming Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails. Rothbaum’s first book, The Business of Spirits: How Savvy Marketers, Innovative Distillers, and Entrepreneurs Changed How We Drink, was published in 2007.
According to Chicago magazine’s chief dining c...
2018-07-0459 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 24 Are Drinking Rules Made to be Broken?From no standing at the bar to no yelling to no hats, over the last two decades, craft cocktail bars from coast to coast have been posting their own etiquette guidelines. But are any of these rules actually necessary or worth following?To answer this question, Life Behind Bars hosts Noah Rothbaum and David Wondrich are joined by veteran Portland, Oregon, bartender Jeffrey Morgenthaler, who just published "Drinking Distilled: A User’s Manual."Listen to the episode to find out if you need to change your behavior in bars.Life Behind Bars features Half Full’s editor Noah Rothbaum and its...
2018-06-0131 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 23- Are There Any Classic Cocktails That Are Still Lost?There are have been hundreds of cocktail books published over the last 200 years. While a lot of the drinks listed in them are familiar (like the Old-Fashioned and Daiquiri) or versions of those classics, there are also dozens and dozens of other recipes that are completely unfamiliar. Are they lost classics that could be the next Martini or Manhattan? Or are they just filler put in to pad these books?This episode of Life Behind Bars, hosted by Noah Rothbaum and David Wondrich, tries to answer this question. Wondrich also reveals how he looks for recipes and his methods for...
2018-05-0728 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 22 The Guilty Pleasures We’re Not Embarrassed to DrinkFrom Long Island Iced Tea to frozen cocktails to Grasshoppers, there’s a whole class of drinks that don’t get much respect from modern bartenders or drinkers. But in the right bar and under the right circumstances, they are the perfect thing to mix up and enjoy.On this episode of Life Behind Bars, hosts Noah Rothbaum and David Wondrich reveal their favorite guilty pleasures and where they like to enjoy them. (Yes, even cocktail experts drink guilty pleasures from time to time.) So if you’ve ever enjoyed a White Russian, a Frozen Irish Coffee or a Pousse Café y...
2018-04-1722 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 21 - The Art of Drinking & FlyingFrequent flyers not only know how to pick the perfect seat and the fastest TSA line but also where to find the best drink in an airport.On this episode of Life Behind Bars, Noah Rothbaum and David Wondrich discuss the history of inflight cocktails, including even the bars built inside the cabins of zeppelins. The hosts also share their favorite spots to grab a drink during a layover and the secret to making a delicious Old-Fashioned after takeoff.Life Behind Bars features Half Full’s editor Noah Rothbaum and its Senior Drinks Columnist David Wondrich as they discuss the gr...
2018-03-2829 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 20 An International St. Patrick’s Day Pub CrawlFrom Dublin and Belfast to Chile and Mongolia, you can now find Irish pubs around the world. Just in time for St. Patrick’s Day, on this episode of Life Behind Bars we go on an international pub crawl of our all-time favorite Irish bars.Hosts Noah Rothbaum and David Wondrich are joined by Irish pub expert Tim Herlihy from the episode’s partner Tullamore D.E.W. (Herlihy even once barnstormed across America visiting Irish bars in all 50 states in just 30 days. He’s also working on an Irish whiskey and Irish pub book with bartenders Jack McGarry and Sean M...
2018-03-0921 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 19 Debunking the Biggest Cocktails & Spirits MythsWas rye more popular than bourbon at the turn century? Was the Manhattan cocktail created for Winston Churchill’s mother? Was tequila ever bottled with a worm? On this episode of Life Behind Bars, hosts Noah Rothbaum and David Wondrich debunk some of the most commonplace cocktails and spirits myths out there. Enjoy a drink while they set the record straight!Life Behind Bars features Half Full’s editor Noah Rothbaum and its senior drinks columnist David Wondrich as they discuss the greatest bartenders of all time and how they changed what the world drinks. Edited by Alex Skjong....
2018-02-0834 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 18 Burns Night ScotchGet out that bottle of single malt whisky in the back of your liquor cabinet, which you’ve been saving for a special occasion. This Thursday is the 259th birthday of Scotland’s national poet Robert Burns. He’s not only the author of some of the most famous Gaelic poems but is also responsible for New Year’s Eve anthem Auld Lang Syne. Historically, the bard is celebrated with bagpipes, recitations of his poems, plates of haggis and glasses of whisky. While he died penniless, in the 1800s the Scots, looking for an identity, began to widel...
2018-01-2338 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 17 - How to Shake Up Your Drinks in 2018How can you take your drinks mixing to the next level in 2018? In this episode of Life Behind Bars, hosts Noah Rothbaum and David Wondrich come up with a few boozy New Year’s resolutions for themselves and for both professional and home bartenders. From being more patient with new cocktail trends and exploring local drinking cultures to throwing more parties, our hosts may actually have a shot at keeping these resolutions.Life Behind Bars features Half Full’s editor Noah Rothbaum and its Senior Drinks Columnist David Wondrich as they discuss the greatest bartenders of all time and how they...
2018-01-0930 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 15 - What You Should Drink on ThanksgivingGet in the Thanksgiving spirit by listening to a special holiday edition of the podcast Life Behind Bars. Hosts Noah Rothbaum and David Wondrich try to solve the age-old problem of what beverages go best with turkey, stuffing and the rest of the traditional meal. They also discuss what the Pilgrims actually drank at the first Thanksgiving in 1621 and what they plan on serving their friends and family this year. Whether you’re a guest or are hosting the meal, you’ll want to listen to this episode.Life Behind Bars features the Daily Beast’s Half Full editor Noah Rothba...
2017-11-2122 min
Life Behind Bars with Noah Rothbaum & David WondrichLife Behind Bars - Episode 14 The Rise and Fall of ProhibitionNearly 84 years after the end of Prohibition, the story of how American drinkers and distillers survived the dry period is, amazingly, still the subject of much attention. Rum runners and bootleggers continue to be the subject of TV shows and movies and modern speakeasies are popular around the world. But the reality of the dry period was certainly a lot less glamorous and a lot more dangerous for the common drinker who was risking his or her own life with every contraband cocktail. On this episode of Life Behind Bars, we look at the causes of Prohibition, why it failed...
2017-11-1638 min