Shows
Whiskey ProvisionerSmashing Pumpkins Bourbon: A Tea-Infused Whiskey?Welcome back to Whiskey Provisioner! Hosts Richard and So-Han (West China Tea) are joined by guests Amanda Beckwith (Virginia Distillery) and Erin (Few Spirits) for a deep dive into the intersection of tea and whiskey.Erin brings an incredibly unique bottle: a Few Spirits bourbon collaboration with The Smashing Pumpkins. This whiskey wasn't proofed down with water; it was brought from cask strength to 93 proof using a rose-petal-scented red tea from co-founder Billy Corgan's own tea shop.To pair with it, So-Han selects a floral Sheng Puerh containing Yunnan rose and chrysanthemum. He explains why...
2025-11-1531 minWhiskey ProvisionerPairing Still Austin Tanager with Cigars and TeaDive into the ultimate pairing experience as Richard and So-Han of West China Tea welcome CJ from Still Austin Whiskey Co. back for a deep dive into the world of cigar blend whiskey.In this segment, CJ introduces the highly anticipated Tanager Cigar Blend—a complex whiskey specifically designed to stand up to the intensity of a cigar. They discuss:The Tanager Blend: A rich mix of red, blue, and white corn bourbons, blended with "petito" (lower-proof, long-aged whiskey) for an incredibly oily and complex mouthfeel.What is a Cigar Blend? CJ breaks do...
2025-11-0619 minWhiskey ProvisionerStill The Best Rye!Welcome back to Whiskey Provisioner! Hosts Richard and So-Han (West China Tea) are joined by special guest CJ for an episode dedicated to the art of finished rye whiskeys.CJ kicks things off by sharing a personal project and his "baby": a future Distillery Reserve Series (DRS) release from Still Austin. It's a 100% Brutto Rye finished in rare White Port barrels. So-Han pairs this 114-proof whiskey with a Sheng Puerh tea, leading to a discussion on how tea and whiskey interact.The group then explores another unique bottle from Richard's collection: a Saints Alley Nobleman...
2025-10-1826 minWhiskey ProvisionerIronroot Whiskey and Tea Pairings with Irene Tan at West China TeaIn this episode, Richard and So-Han dive into the world of whiskey and tea with special guest, Irene Tan. Irene shares her experiences and insights into blending and pairing whiskeys with teas. The conversation spans topics such as aged tea, distillery collaborations, and the nuances of blending techniques. Discover the intricacies of whiskey production, from barrel picks to the challenges of the three-tier system, while savoring the unique fusion of tea and whiskey flavors. Learn more about the art of blending, the importance of legal nuances in the industry, and enjoy some expert recommendations for your next tasting adventure!⸺ cr...
2025-09-0150 min
Whiskey ProvisionerWhiskey and Tea with Irene TanRichard and So-Han welcome special guest Irene Tan to the West China Tea House and Whiskey Provisioner. Irene, a distinguished figure in the whiskey world from Connecticut, shares her journey from being a software engineer to becoming a Level 4 whiskey sommelier. We dive into her experiences in blending whiskey, her move from wine to whiskey, and her connections with notable distilleries like Whistle Pig and Kings County. Irene also offers insights into her whiskey collaborations, such as the cigar blend project with Andalusia. As the conversation flows, so does the tea, with discussions on the similarities and...
2025-07-0434 minWhiskey ProvisionerVirginia Distillery | Amanda Beckwith | Hardywood Gingerbread Stout Cask Finish - Brewer's CoalitionRichard and So-Han from Whiskey Provisioner welcome Amanda Beckwith from Virginia Distillery to discuss the intersection of whiskey and tea. Filmed at Still Austin, this episode delves into the art of blending whiskey, the impact of terroir, and the growing American Single Malt category. Amanda shares her background, blending techniques, and the newly ratified standards for American Single Malts. The conversation also explores palate sensitivity, the nuances of tasting, and the importance of transparency in the whiskey industry. Experience the unique pairing of whiskey and tea, and discover the intricacies behind each sip.
⸺ credits ⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺
Richard Amiro - host
http://richa...
2025-01-2541 minWhiskey ProvisionerRye Around the World: From Texas Fields to Danish Stills | Whiskey ProvisionerRichard hosts another episode of Whiskey Provisioner with Jason Sowder and Theresa Smith, featuring a side-by-side tasting of two distinctive rye whiskeys. They explore Stauning Danish Rye, a unique double-oaked expression from the Drammers Club single barrel program, alongside Wilson Valley Mercantile's Texas-made "seed to sip" rye whiskey. The trio dives deep into the complexities of rye whiskey production, from floor malting techniques to direct-fire distillation. They discuss how Stauning's innovative approach using malted rye and small pot stills creates rich chocolate and marshmallow notes, while Wilson Valley's farm-to-glass approach yields a clean, grassy expression that captures the essence...
2025-01-0425 minWhiskey ProvisionerCraft Whiskey from Kiwi Country: Pocono Winter Malt Review | Whiskey ProvisionerRichard hosts another episode of Whiskey Provisioner featuring two Whiskey Sommelier Level 4 instructors at the Wizard Academy - Jason Sowder from Detroit, founder of the Proof LLC, and Theresa Smith, known as the Canadian Whiskey Smith from Alberta. In this episode, they explore and taste Pocono New Zealand Single Malt from their Winter Malt experimental series, featuring unique ingredients like Manuka honey smoked malt and chocolate malt.
The trio discusses the emerging whiskey scene in New Zealand and Australia, diving deep into tasting notes that reveal layers of complexity - from light fruity notes to dark chocolate and subtle...
2024-12-2821 min
Whiskey ProvisionerWhat is Aquavit? Tasting Norden Aquavit For The First Time.
Join host Richard at the Wizard Academy as he sits down with Jason Sowder, a Level 4 Sommelier and educator, to explore Norton Aquavit, a unique Detroit-made spirit crafted in the Scandinavian tradition. Jason shares his fascinating journey into the world of spirits, starting with a whiskey club experience in Boston that sparked his passion for exploration. In this episode, they dive deep into the world of Aquavit, discussing its botanical composition including dill, caraway, sumac, and various citrus notes. Jason explains how Norton Aquavit is produced using Michigan corn and a botanical basket distillation process, creating a smooth 90-proof...
2024-12-2128 min
Whiskey ProvisionerWhat Makes Craft Mezcal Special? ft. Mike Groener | Tea & SpiritsRichard and So-Han continue their conversation with Mike Groener of Creador Spirits and Bar Singular in part two of their exploration of mezcal and traditional tea. They dive deeper into the challenges facing small-scale producers, sustainability issues, and the importance of preserving traditional production methods in both industries. Mike shares his experiences operating a distillery in Austin and Bastrop, discussing how government regulations and infrastructure challenges affect small producers. The conversation explores the parallels between artisanal tea and mezcal production, from market pressures to resist commodification to the beauty of seasonal variations and small-batch creation. The episode concludes with...
2024-12-1446 min
Whiskey ProvisionerMezcal & Tea: Where Mexico Meets China w/ Mike Groener of Creador SpiritsRichard and So-Han welcome special guest Mike Groener of Creador Spirits and Bar Singular at West China Tea for an enlightening discussion about mezcal, traditional tea, and the fascinating parallels between these two artisanal beverages. In this episode, we explore the complexities of clay-distilled mezcal from San Bernardo Mixtepec, paired with a smoky 2019 wild Tianjian fermented tea from Hunan, China.
The conversation delves into the cultural significance of both beverages, traditional production methods, and the importance of agricultural heritage in both Mexican and Chinese traditions. Mike shares his extensive knowledge of mezcal production, including insights about denomination of origin...
2024-12-0736 minWhiskey ProvisionerGift Giving Tea and Whiskey with Brian KillaveyWe welcome Brian Killavey of Killco Mental Musings to West China Tea for a different kind of episode. Recently stepping back from whiskey due to health concerns, Brian shares his journey of transitioning his content focus while maintaining his passion for spirits through nosing and tasting. Together, we explore a unique whiskey barrel-aged Sheng Pu'er tea, discussing its complex flavors and the fascinating parallels between tea and whiskey appreciation.
The conversation weaves through topics of mental health, family challenges, and finding new ways to engage with beloved interests. So-Han introduces alternatives for whiskey enthusiasts looking to explore new flavors...
2024-11-2322 min
Whiskey ProvisionerHighland Park 12 Review & Chinese Tea Pairing | Expert Tasting with Cliff SmithWe welcome whiskey expert Cliff Smith, a respected instructor and mentor in the whiskey community, for a special tasting at West China Tea. Today we're exploring the pairing of Malac Phoenix, a luxurious "cashmere of red teas," with Highland Park 12, discussing how this approachable peated scotch serves as a perfect gateway into smoky whiskies.
Cliff shares engaging stories from his experiences teaching whiskey appreciation, including how he helped change one colleague's perception of peated scotch. Meanwhile, So-Han guides us through the complexities of this premium red tea, made from special fragrant cultivars typically reserved for Phoenix Oolongs. Together, we...
2024-11-1629 min
Whiskey ProvisionerNectarosity & Crimson Cask: New Compass Box Whiskey Core Range with Aged Green TeaWe welcome back our first repeat guest, Stephen Caronna from Compass Box Whiskymaker, for a special tasting at West China Tea. Today we're exploring the perfect pairing of a rare aged Phoenix Mountain green tea with two exciting new releases from Compass Box's revamped core lineup: Nectarosity and Crimson Cask.
Our conversation weaves between whisky and tea expertise, with Stephen sharing fascinating insights into Compass Box's innovative barrel-making process and their commitment to natural coloring. So-Han introduces us to an unusual aged green tea that surprises everyone with its unique characteristics. Together, we discover delightful flavor connections...
2024-11-0933 minWhiskey ProvisionerBrent Looby on Sotol Production, Land Conservation, and Texas HeritageEver wondered how sotol is made? Dive into the world of Desert Door Distilling with Brent Looby as he shares insights into their unique distillation techniques, innovative aging process, and the aromatic profiles of their distinctive spirits. Plus, learn about the challenges of building a craft spirits brand and the importance of environmental stewardship.
⸺ credits ⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺
Richard Amiro - host http://richardamiro.com
So-Han Fan - guest https://www.youtube.com/@TeaHouseGhost - https://westchinatea.com/
Cory Cranfill - a really helpful guy https://youtube.com/@shedlogic - https://www.righttoolmedia.com
Guest - Brent Loob...
2024-11-0248 min
Whiskey ProvisionerMidwinter Night's Dram | Rye Whiskey & Fermented TeaWhiskey Provisioner Meets Texas Whiskey Geek at West China Tea
Join us for a unique tasting experience as we blend the worlds of whiskey and tea! In this episode, we're at the West China Tea in Austin, TX, where tea expert So-Han guides us through a special "Witch's Butter" Pu-erh tea. Our guest, Caleb Rhoades from Texas Whiskey Geek, brings a rare High West Distillery Midwinter Night's Dram Encore finished in white port barrels.
Discover the fascinating stories and production methods behind these unique beverages, and hear our thoughts on the unexpected flavor pairings. So-Han shares his deep knowledge...
2024-10-2629 min
Whiskey ProvisionerSotol, Sustainability, and the Art of Craft | Desert Door DistillingEver heard of Sotol? It's a unique Mexican spirit distilled from a desert plant, and it's got a fascinating story. Join Richard and So-Han as they chat with Brent Looby of Desert Door Distilling, who's passionate about sharing this hidden gem with the world. He'll explain how sotol is made, what makes it different from tequila and mezcal, and why it pairs so well with...Chinese tea? That's right, Brent also dives into his travels in China, exploring the unexpected connections between these two ancient beverages. Plus, they'll discuss the challenges and rewards of running a craft distillery and...
2024-10-1948 min
Whiskey ProvisionerWhat Memories Do Whiskey & Tea Evoke?Tea & Whiskey: A Match Made in Flavor Heaven
Join Richard and So-Han at West China Tea as they welcome back Chris from 10th Mountain Whiskey for another exciting round of tea and whiskey pairings!
In this episode:
So-Han introduces a special Shu Pu'erh tea, a fermented variety known for its earthy and complex flavors.
Chris shares 10th Mountain Whiskey's Single Malt, both the standard release and a unique single barrel selection.
Discover the surprising harmony between the rich, mushroomy notes of Shu Pu'erh and the sweet, fruity character of...
2024-10-1241 min
Whiskey ProvisionerWhat's the Secret to 10th Mountain Whiskey's Award-Winning Rye?Tea & Whiskey Pairings: 10th Mountain Rye & Sheng Pu'er from a Whiskey Barrel
In this episode of Tea & Whiskey, Richard & So-Han are joined by Chris from 10th Mountain Whiskey for another exciting round of pairings!
Highlights:
So-Han brews a unique Sheng Pu'er tea that's been aged in a whiskey barrel, offering a fascinating blend of flavors.
Chris showcases 10th Mountain's award-winning rye whiskey, both the standard release and a special single barrel 10th anniversary edition.
Discover the unexpected harmony between the earthy, vegetal notes of Sheng Pu'er and the bright, spicy character of rye whiskey.
2024-10-0530 min
Whiskey Provisioner10th Mountain Whiskey and the Spirit of AdventureJoin us at West China Tea for a unique tasting experience as we explore the connection between whiskey and tea! We're joined by Christopher Rice from 10th Mountain Whiskey, who shares the captivating history of the 10th Mountain Division and how their legacy inspires their craft.
Discover:
The heartwarming story behind 10th Mountain Whiskey and its connection to the brave soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division.
The unique challenges and rewards of distilling whiskey at high altitudes in Colorado.
The art of tea brewing and how it mirrors the craft of...
2024-09-2941 min
Whiskey ProvisionerBalcones Whiskey in Texas Live Oak Barrels!?Join Richard, So-Han, and special guest Caleb Rhoades from Texas Whiskey Geek for an exciting exploration of Texas whiskey and fine Chinese teas.
In this episode:
Tea Time with So-Han: So-Han introduces a premium red tea from Guizhou, China, and explains its unique characteristics and processing methods.
Whiskey Wisdom with Caleb: Caleb dives into the nuances of whiskey pricing, rarity, and the importance of tasting before you buy.
The Texas Connection: The trio tastes Balcones Live Oak Single Malt, a whiskey made entirely from Texas ingredients, including barley, oak, and distilling expertise.
Flavor Fusion: Discover the unique flavor profile...
2024-09-2335 min
Whiskey ProvisionerDead Distilleries & Vintage Tea: A Unique Pairing ExperienceRichard and So-Han, are back with a new episode! They're joined by Caleb Rhoades from Texas Whiskey Geek, who has brought along some special whiskeys to pair with tea. In this episode, they dive into the world of "dead" whiskeys and teas, exploring the unique flavors and stories behind these rare finds. First up, they sample a Whitmire's single malt whiskey from a distillery that no longer exists, paired with a pre-fire Lishu Lin tea from 2005. The conversation then shifts to the Texas whiskey scene, discussing the challenges and triumphs of small distilleries, the role of influencers and social...
2024-09-1434 min
Whiskey ProvisionerDaniel Whittington's Whiskey WisdomIn this episode of Whiskey Provisioner, hosts Richard and So-Han welcome back the charismatic Daniel Whittington for an unscripted, intimate conversation about whiskey and tea. The trio explores the nuanced world of oolong tea, with So-Han offering expert insights into its production and characteristics.
Daniel shares the story behind his unique whiskey blend, the Magnificent Beast Jackalope, detailing the intricate process of creating this complex spirit. The group engages in a sensory journey, pairing Daniel's whiskey with So-Han's carefully selected oolong tea, discovering unexpected and delightful flavor combinations.
Highlights include:
An in-depth exploration of oolong tea and its production...
2024-09-0744 min
Whiskey ProvisionerThe Best Whiskey and Tea? | Daniel WhittingtonIn this episode of Whiskey Provisioner, hosts Richard and So-Han welcome back special guest Daniel Whittington for an in-depth exploration of whiskey and tea. The trio delves into the intricacies of tea production, focusing on Pu-erh tea and its fermentation process, drawing fascinating parallels with whiskey making.
Daniel shares his expertise on Irish whiskey and introduces a special Speyside single malt, Longmorn, known as a "distiller's malt." The group discusses the nuances of tasting both whiskey and tea, exploring how each beverage enhances the other's flavors.
Highlights include:
A deep dive into tea fermentation and production methods
The story...
2024-08-3151 min
Whiskey ProvisionerBrewers Turned Distillers: Real Ale's Spirited EvolutionCome with us on a behind-the-scenes tour of Real Ale Brewing Company and Real Spirits Distilling in Blanco, Texas! In this video, we explore how this popular brewery expanded into whiskey production, creating unique spirits from their signature beers.
Our host Richard, along with special guest James from Garrison Brothers Distillery, gets a guided tour from Aaron, the Real Spirits distiller.
Get an insider's look at their distilling process, barrel aging techniques, and even taste some straight-from-the-barrel whiskey! Learn about their various whiskey expressions, including their unique "Phoenix" series.
If you're into craft beer, curious about distilling, or just...
2024-08-1016 min
Whiskey ProvisionerAndalusia Whiskey Insider Interview With Ty And MooseJoin us for an in-depth conversation with Ty and Moose from Andalusia Distillery in Blanco, Texas. In this candid interview, we dive into the world of American Single Malt whiskey, exploring Andalusia's unique approach to crafting spirits using Texas-grown ingredients and rainwater.
Highlights include:
A tasting of Andalusia's upcoming Palo Duro release
Insights into the distilling process, from grain selection to barrel aging
Discussion of the challenges facing craft distillers in Texas
The story behind Andalusia's recent expansion and crowdfunding campaign
A look at the current state of the American whiskey industry
Get a behind-the-scenes...
2024-08-0459 min
Whiskey ProvisionerOld Fitzgerald and Aged White Tea: Whiskey Wisdom with Shannon HoodJoin us for another exciting episode at West China Tea as we welcome Shannon Hood, the "Pourly Educated" whiskey expert, for a unique tasting experience combining fine teas and bourbon. In this episode, we explore:
Shannon's journey into the whiskey industry and her "Pourly Educated" brand
A 2015 aged white tea from Fuding, Fujian, paired with various bourbons
Baker's 7 Year Single Barrel Bourbon and its unique characteristics
Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond and the history behind the "larceny" name
The complexities of whiskey labeling and production processes
The similarities between tea and whiskey cultures, including tasting techniques and sensory experiences
The significant...
2024-07-2741 min
Whiskey ProvisionerBeyond Kentucky: Iron Root's World-Class Texas BourbonJoin us for an exciting tasting session featuring West China Tea, Whiskey Provisioner, and Shannon Hood from Iron Root Republic! In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of award-winning Texas bourbon and pair it with an equally prestigious green tea.
Highlights include:
Tasting Iron Root Republic's Harbinger and Promethean whiskeys
Sampling Taiping Houkui, a rare and expensive green tea that won a gold medal at the 1905 Panama World's Fair
Discussion of unique corn varieties used in Iron Root's whiskeys
The story behind Iron Root winning World's Best Bourbon in 2020
Insights into Texas whiskey production and aging techniques
Surprising...
2024-07-1935 min
Whiskey Provisioner20-Year James Beam Bourbon & 25-Year Fu Zhuan TeaJoin us for another exciting episode of Whiskey Provisioner! In this installment, we welcome special guest Shannon Hood, a bourbon expert from Ironroot Republic Distillery. Shannon shares her passion for bourbon, including a rare 20-year-old Jim Beam whiskey with signatures from Freddie, Fred, and Baker Beam.
Host So-Han pairs this exceptional bourbon with a 1999 Fu Zhuan tea from Hunan, China (https://westchinatea.com/30g-1999-dark-potion-fu-zhuan/). Watch as they explore the similarities between bourbon and aged teas, discussing production methods, aging processes, and flavor profiles.
Shannon recounts her recent adventures in Kentucky, explains the origins of bourbon, and shares personal...
2024-07-0929 min
Whiskey ProvisionerMonster Mash Whiskey & Date Night Tea?Join tea expert So-Han from West China Tea, distiller C.J. from Still Austin Whiskey Co., and host Richard for an exciting exploration of rare whiskeys and aged white tea.
So-Han introduces a special 2013 white tea brick called "Date Night," explaining its unique processing and aging characteristics. He discusses the philosophy of embracing the ephemeral nature of tea and whiskey, highlighting the "one time, one meeting" concept from tea culture.
C.J. presents two exceptional Still Austin whiskeys: their seasonal Bottled in Bond Red Corn Bourbon and the highly sought-after Monster Mash release. He shares details about the production...
2024-07-0141 min
Whiskey ProvisionerGrain, Grit, and Whiskey: The Wilson Valley Mercantile StoryJoin us as we explore Wilson Valley Mercantile, a unique farm-to-bottle distillery in Texas. Fifth-generation farmer John and his family have transformed their 157-year-old family farm into a thriving whiskey operation.
In this video, we take a behind-the-scenes tour of the distillery, learning about:
The farm's rich history dating back to 1866
How modern farming techniques help sustain the family business
The seed-to-sip process of making whiskey entirely on-site
The challenges of balancing farming and distilling operations
The custom-built distillery equipment and production process
Barrel aging techniques in the Texas climate
We also discuss the tasting room experience, featuring live...
2024-06-3025 min
Whiskey ProvisionerCask Strength Conversations: Still Austin's Distilling Techniques and Tea ComparisonsJoin tea expert So-Han from West China Tea, distiller C.J. from Still Austin Whiskey Co., and host Richard for an in-depth exploration of rye whiskey and rare Chinese tea.
So-Han introduces a unique red tea called Hong Ho Kuei (Red Monkey Chief), a variant of the famous Taiping Houkui green tea from Anhui province. He explains the tea's origins, processing methods, and how different mountain sides affect tea flavor.
C.J. shares his journey into distilling, inspired by YouTube videos and homebrewing experiments. He discusses Still Austin's grain-to-glass philosophy and their use of the distinctive Brasetto rye varietal.
...
2024-06-2436 min
Whiskey ProvisionerStill Austin's Innovative Approach: Crafting Rye Whiskey in the Texas ClimateJoin tea expert So-Han from West China Tea, distiller C.J. from Still Austin Whiskey Co., and Richard from Whiskey Provisioner for an in-depth discussion about the art and science of craft distilling and a tasting of their innovative rye whiskeys.
C.J. shares fascinating details about Still Austin's grain-to-glass philosophy, working with Texas-grown grains and local artists to create truly unique expressions. He explains how their towering 50-foot column still, affectionately named "Nancy" after the '50s sci-fi character, is specifically designed to retain flavorful oils during distillation.
So-Han introduces a rare Chinese green tea called Guanduancha from...
2024-06-2156 min
Whiskey ProvisionerCrafting Heavily Peated Single Malt Whiskey with Andalusia DistillingJoin tea expert So-Han from West China Tea, Richard of Whiskey Provisioner, and distiller Moose Allen from Andalusia Distilling for an engaging discussion about Moose's journey into the world of craft distilling and a tasting of their special heavily peated single malt whiskey finished in Pedro Ximenez sherry casks. Moose shares his fascinating story of transitioning from a career in paint equipment repair to volunteering at Andalusia Distilling, where he quickly became an indispensable part of the team. He discusses the challenges and joys of working at a small craft distillery, from jury-rigging equipment to experimenting with unique cask...
2024-06-1441 min
Whiskey ProvisionerColkegan American Single Malt Whiskey and Aged Pu-erh TeaJoin us for another exciting episode as we delve into the world of American single-malt whiskey and aged pu-erh tea. Our special guest, Randall from the Whiskey Shaman podcast, joins us to taste and discuss Colkegan's unique bottled-in-bond single malt from Santa Fe Spirits in New Mexico.
We learn about the fascinating story behind Colkegan and its founder, Colin Kegan, who started his journey by making apple brandy and eventually fell in love with the idea of crafting American single-malt whiskey. Randall shares his personal experience visiting the distillery and the warm hospitality he received.
As we dive into...
2024-06-1019 min
Whiskey ProvisionerCedar Ridge Whiskey and Phoenix Mountain TeaJoin tea expert So-Han, distiller Moose Allen from Andalusia Distilling, and Richard Amiro for an intriguing tasting of artisanal American single malt whiskey and rare "duck shit" oolong tea from China.
So-Han introduces the fascinating story behind the tea's unique name, a form of intellectual property protection used by the original farmer to prevent others from stealing his prized cultivar. He brews the tea using a special Gaiwan vessel to precisely control temperature and flavor.
The group then samples whiskey from Cedar Ridge Distillery in Iowa, which was finished in distinctive apricot brandy casks. They compare tasting notes, finding...
2024-06-0727 min
Whiskey ProvisionerLaphroaig 10 and Elements 1.0 with Emma CrandallWe welcome back Balcones Distilling's Emma Crandall to explore the world of Laphroaig with Whiskey Provisioner's Richard Amiro and West China Tea's So-Han. Emma and So-Han share their personal journeys with Laphroaig, a beloved Islay single malt known for its distinctive smoky and peaty character.
We delve into two expressions: the classic Laphroaig 10 Year Old and the newer Laphroaig Elements 1.0. Emma explains how the Elements 1.0 showcases experimentation with mashing and fermentation styles, using different types of wort and mash tuns to create a unique expression that remains true to Laphroaig's signature style.
As we compare the two whiskies side...
2024-06-0325 min
Whiskey ProvisionerAndalusia Distilling's Moose Talks Funky Rum and Tea PairingsJoin tea expert So-Han, special guest Moose from Andalusia Distilling, and Richard from Whiskey Provisioner for a fascinating discussion and tasting of artisanal rum and wild red tea from China. Moose shares his journey as a distiller and musician, and how he earned his unique nickname.
So-Han introduces the traditional Chinese tea ceremony, brewing a rare wild red tea from Sichuan using a special clay teapot reserved just for this tea type. He explains the six main varieties of tea and the remote origins of true tea.
Moose then presents his special 2-year barrel-aged rum made with a funky...
2024-05-3154 min
Whiskey ProvisionerJT Meleck Rice Whiskey and Sticky Rice Pu-erh TeaJoin us for a unique tasting experience as we explore the fascinating world of rice whiskey and sticky rice pu-erh tea. In this episode, we're excited to try JT Meleck's single barrel, cask-strength rice whiskey from Louisiana, paired with a 2021 vintage sticky rice pu-erh tea.
Our guest, Randall, shares the intriguing story behind JT Meleck's whiskey, which is made from rice grown on their family farm for over a century. We learn about the symbiotic relationship between rice and crawfish in Louisiana and how this whiskey showcases the unique terroir of their land.
As we delve into the tasting...
2024-05-2718 min
Whiskey ProvisionerBalcones' Emma Crandall and West China Tea's So-Han Explore Pilgrimage and Pu'erBalcones Distilling's Emma Crandall returns to explore more unique combinations with West China Tea's Sohan. We dive into Balcones' latest release, Pilgrimage, a distillery-exclusive Texas single malt with a fascinating story.
Pilgrimage is made by distilling unpeated Golden Promise Scottish barley immediately after a peated single malt run. The residual phenolic oils from the peated run impart a subtle smoky character to the unpeated spirit, showcasing the intricate connections between each stage of the whiskey-making process.
To complement the Pilgrimage's incidental smoke notes, Sohan selects a 2021 Gushu Pu'er tea called "Smoke Bomb." This sheng (raw) Pu'er, sourced from ancient...
2024-05-2232 min
Whiskey ProvisionerLost Lantern Whiskey: Pairing Rare Whiskey with Sun-Dried Red TeaJoin So-Han, Randall, and Richard for an intimate tea and whiskey-tasting experience at So-Han's tea house. In this episode, they dive into the world of red tea, specifically the sun-dried Gamma Ray variety, and pair it with a special 100% malted wheat whiskey from Cedar Ridge, bottled by Lost Lantern.
So-Han explains the differences between red tea and black tea and shares insights into the British colonial history that shaped the Indian tea industry. As they steep the Gamma Ray red tea, the group notes its classic tea aroma and honey-like sweetness.
Randall introduces the Lost Lantern independent bottler and...
2024-05-1327 min
Whiskey ProvisionerLagavulin 16 and Jameson Black Barrel: Distilled EmotionsJoin So-Han from West China Tea, Richard the Whiskey Provisioner, Ryan, and Cory as they dive into a captivating conversation about barbecue, whiskey, and tea. Ryan shares his insights on the art of smoking brisket and the importance of consistency in barbecue. The group then explores the nuances of various barbecue spots in Austin, TX.
As the discussion shifts to whiskey, Ryan opens up about his personal experiences and how certain peated Scotch whiskies evoke traumatic memories from his time serving in the military. The group holds space for Ryan's vulnerability and shows respect for his service.
So-Han and...
2024-05-1052 min
Whiskey ProvisionerBalcones Distilling's Emma CrandallBalcones Distilling's Emma Crandall joins us at West China Tea for a unique tasting experience, pairing whiskey with aged Pu'er and Oolong teas. We explore the parallels between tea and whiskey production, from fermentation to aging, and discover how different teas can bring out surprising flavors in whiskey.
Emma introduces Balcones' newest release, Mirador Eclipse, which features a unique fermentation process using red wine and rosé wine yeasts. We learn how this innovative approach creates a whiskey with a distinctive berry and blush flavor profile, even without wine cask finishing.
As we pair the Mirador Eclipse with a fruity O...
2024-05-0634 min
Whiskey ProvisionerTeeling, Silver Needle, and The Dead RabbitJoin Richard, So-Han, and special guest Ryan for an engaging conversation about the shared experiences and memories evoked by tea and whiskey. In this episode, So-Han introduces a delicate Silver Needle white tea, sharing the story of how his first encounter with the art of Gong Fu Cha transformed tea from a mere beverage to a lifestyle. Ryan brings a special bottle of Teeling Single Malt Irish Whiskey, which holds personal significance as the whiskey that sparked his passion for the spirit during the challenging times of Hurricane Harvey in 2017. He also shares a rare find, a bottle of...
2024-05-0339 min
Whiskey ProvisionerThe Whiskey Shaman Meets the Tea Wizard: A Conversation on Flavor and TerroirJoin Richard, So-Han, and special guest Randall, the Whiskey Shaman, for an enlightening conversation about the world of tea and spirits. In this episode, So-Han introduces a rare purple white tea, discussing its unique harvesting process and the concept of seed-propagated plants. Randall brings a special apple brandy from the Spirits of French Lick distillery in Indiana, sharing its fascinating history and the importance of craft distilleries.
Together, they explore the similarities between the tea and brandy, noting the delicate floral notes and the influence of terroir. Randall and So-Han guide listeners through the tasting experience, offering insights on...
2024-04-2927 min
Whiskey ProvisionerWhat is Rum?Join Richard, the Whiskey Shaman, and their rum-loving
friend as they dive into the captivating world of rum in this intriguing episode of their podcast. From the basics of what defines rum to the fascinating variations and regional influences that shape this diverse spirit,
the trio explores the complexities and delights of rum with infectious enthusiasm.
Discover the surprising lack of regulations in the United
States rum market and how this affects the quality and authenticity of the bottles you find on the shelves. Learn about the various styles, from white and gold to dark and spiced...
2024-04-2503 min
Whiskey ProvisionerWeller, Tea and Old FitzgeraldAre you a whiskey lover, tea enthusiast, or simply curious
about the artistry behind these timeless drinks? In this captivating episode of
the Whiskey Provisioner podcast, join whiskey aficionados Ryan and Richard and
tea connoisseur So-Han as they delve into the rich histories, unique flavors,
and personal stories that connect these two beloved beverages.
From Ryan's nostalgic tales of his grandfather's favorite
Weller 107 to So-Han's passionate introduction to the classic Chinese tea blend
Guk Bo, the trio explores the fascinating parallels between the worlds of
whiskey and tea. Discover the intriguing stories behind rare and sought-after
varieties...
2024-04-2230 min
Whiskey ProvisionerFarm to Glass: Texas Whiskey & Chinese Tea ConnectionsJoin us for a fascinating discussion on the intersection of
Texas whiskey and Chinese tea culture. Jake, the director of the Texas Whiskey
Trail, shares his passion for promoting the Lone Star State's burgeoning
whiskey scene. We explore the unique terroir and experimental spirit of Texas
distilleries, while drawing parallels with the farm-direct tea sourcing
philosophy.
Highlights include tasting a seed-to-sip bourbon from a
local farmer who grows all the grains, and learning about the significance of
"tea pets" in the traditional Chinese tea ceremony. Jake eloquently
expresses how whiskey and tea transcend being mere drinks, fostering...
2024-04-1227 min
Whiskey ProvisionerArt & Decadence | Compass Box Blending Whisky & Tea StoriesJoin us for a delightful conversation blending whiskey and tea! In this episode, we have the pleasure of welcoming Stephen Coronna from Compass Box Whisky. Stephen takes us on a journey through their latest limited edition "Art and Decadence," a masterful blend of scotch whiskeys aged and finished in a variety of casks.
As we sip and savor this decadent dram, the discussion explores the art of blending, the importance of transparency in disclosing the components, and the beauty of harmonizing different distilleries and cask types into a creation that transcends the sum of its parts.
Stephen shares insightful...
2024-04-0514 min
Whiskey ProvisionerOrange Muscat Whiskey Meets Aged White TeaJoin Jake, Richard, and So-Han as they dive into a delightful discussion about whiskey and tea pairings at the West China Tea House. In this episode, they sample a unique single malt whiskey finished in orange muscat brandy barrels, providing an intriguing "orange creamsicle" flavor. Sohan complements it with an aged white tea, revealing the nuances of how tea evolves over time.
The conversation explores the art of aging tea, the collaborative nature of the Texas whiskey community, and the importance of exercising your tasting muscles. With insightful banter and jovial camaraderie, this podcast offers a delightful fusion of...
2024-04-0121 min
Whiskey ProvisionerSuper Smoked Malt | Tasting with Compass Box's Stephen CoronnaIn this episode, Stephen Coronna of Compass Box joins us to discuss his journey into the world of tea and whiskey. We dive into the importance of avoiding snobbery and gatekeeping when exploring new beverages, and instead embracing an open and unpretentious approach. Stephen shares his early experiences with loose leaf tea at Teavana, which sparked his passion despite the hefty prices. We also explore the fascinating concepts of qi "chi" and flavor wheels in tasting notes, emphasizing the subjective nature of perceiving flavors and aromas. Stephen provides insightful tips on how to verbalize tasting experiences without feeling intimidated...
2024-03-2507 min
Whiskey ProvisionerTexas Whiskey Festival | Jake Clements | Tejas CollaborationJoin Jake Clements from the Texas Whiskey Festival, Richard Amiro, and So-Han from West China Tea as they explore the world of whiskey and tea pairings. Jake brings a special whiskey blend — Tejas Collaboration: Shire rye whiskey finished in a rum barrel, and Richard brought the Crowded Barrel Distillery annual Texas Whiskey Festival blend featuring bourbon from multiple Texas distilleries. So-Han pairs these with intriguing teas like an ancient tree sheng pu'er and a delicate white tea. They discuss the art of blending whiskeys, the history of rye as America's original whiskey style, the importance of sourcing for both wh...
2024-03-2224 min
Whiskey ProvisionerPeat Monster & Hei Cha | Exploring Smokey Whiskeys and TeasIn this episode, they explore the smokey world of peated
whiskeys and smoked teas. So-Han brings a fermented smokey black tea called "Hei Cha" from Hunan province, while Stephen introduces the iconic Peat Monster whisky from Compass Box. Get ready for a captivating discussion on the art of smoking teas and malting peated whiskeys, complete with insightful details on the terroir of peat, the importance of reflux in distillation, and the unique flavors imparted by different types of barley and wood smoke. So-Han also provides a fascinating glimpse into the cultural shifts around smoked foods and drinks in both...
2024-03-1834 min
Whiskey ProvisionerCompass Box | Hedonism Meets Immortal DewJoin us for a fascinating conversation exploring the parallels between fine Scotch whisky and Chinese tea! Richard and So-Han from Whiskey Provisioner and West China Tea host Stephen Caronna from Compass Box Scotch Whiskymaker to discuss the art of blending. They dive deep into the nuances of blended Scotch whisky categories like blended malts, blended grains, and the famed blended Scotch itself. Stephen shares the origin story of Compass Box and how they pioneered celebrating grain whisky as the "unsung heroes" of Scotch. They taste and compare the original Hedonism blended grain whisky with the new annual release version...
2024-03-1142 min
Whiskey ProvisionerRum Rations and Fermented Tea: Nerding Out on Global DrinksJoin rum connoisseur Marshall as he explores the world of funky and flavorful rums with master tea server So-Han and Whiskey Provisioner Richard! In this episode, So-Han brews a fermented Pu'er tea stuffed into a mandarin orange skin for a unique flavor experience. Marshall then introduces some rare rums, explaining the complex blends and tasting notes. We learn about the history of rum rationing in the British Royal Navy, esters that create flavor compounds, and how rum production shaped the world through imperialist trade networks. Throughout their rum and tea tasting, So-Han Marshall, and Richard draw out comparisons between...
2024-03-0128 minWhiskey ProvisionerWhiskey, Spirits, & Tea - The Davin Topal EpisodeJoin Whiskey Provisioner Richard, whiskey distiller Davin, and tea importer So-Han as they sit down to enjoy some fine spirits and have an enlightening discussion about their crafts. Davin shares his journey into distilling and making unique whiskies like his annual "Totem" release. He explains his innovative techniques like using local Texas ingredients and even wild boar meat in the distillation process to create a spirit with a true sense of terroir. So-Han talks about his love for tea and how he aims to honor the farmers who produce it by fully experiencing each tea's subtle flavors and chi...
2024-02-281h 17
Alienating the AudienceSuper-Intelligent Spiders And A Sleeper Ship: Children of TimeAdrian Tchaikovsky's "Children of Time" tackles multi-generational sleeper ships, uplifiting species, AI, the nature of intelligence, teleforming and more. Richard Amiro rejoins to discuss.
2023-11-0248 minAlienating the AudienceJesuits in Space! In "The Sparrow" by Mary Doria Russell, life is discovered on an alien planet, and the first humans to arrive are... Jesuits. The book explores the terrifying consequences of missionaries on a new world, who are there for good reasons--with good intentions--but don't know what they've got themselves into. Richard Amiro joins to discuss. SUPPORT THE SHOW! www.patreon.com/alienating BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS: www.mightyheaton.com/goodscifi
2023-05-121h 03