Author: Joe Johnson

  • An Interview With Dr. Jon Kowalski

    An Interview With Dr. Jon Kowalski

    Doctor Jon is a good friend of ours, and a guest on several upcoming episodes, so I sat down with him for an interview to get his perspective on a number of cigar and bourbon related topics. We’ll begin to have more of these upcoming interviews in the future, especially with people like you who […]

  • Mash Bill Breakdown – Lifeblood of Bourbon

    Mash Bill Breakdown – Lifeblood of Bourbon

    Let’s clear the air: the difference between bourbon, scotch, and rye isn’t just about where they’re made. Though Kentucky is famous for bourbon and Scotland is king of scotch, the biggest difference lies in the mash bill and what the distiller does once it’s out of the vat.

  • The Yogi Berra Rule: How To Hold Your Cigar

    The Yogi Berra Rule: How To Hold Your Cigar

    In the world of cigar enthusiasts, the “Yogi Berra rule” teaches us all how to hold a cigar, and provides the best reason to remove the cigar band.

  • Bourbon Delivery: Mail-Order Wonder

    Bourbon Delivery: Mail-Order Wonder

    Have you ever wished your favorite bourbon could be delivered right to your door? What could be better than the UPS driver arriving with your latest bourbon delivery from Kentucky, fresh from the distillery? According to the Herald-Dispatch, the distillers of Kentucky may soon be able to do just that with a new piece of […]

  • Cigar Vitola: What You Need To Know

    Cigar Vitola: What You Need To Know

    Most people don’t know why cigars come in different shapes and sizes. Even then, they don’t recognize the shape of a cigar on sight. These different varieties, also known as vitolas, are an expression of the master roller’s vision for the final product. A cigar vitola can change the flavor, the burn profile, and even […]

  • Small Batch Bourbon, A Perspective

    Small Batch Bourbon, A Perspective

    In recent years, a lot happened in the small batch bourbon industry. New distilleries sprouted up, new brands launched, and the demand for Bourbon products has exploded across the United States. However, that increase in demand is not the only reason for such a Bourbon Renaissance. No, one name may have brought a lot of […]

  • Episode 2 – Wild Turkey In The House

    Episode 2 – Wild Turkey In The House

    Well, you’ve lasted this far and decided to tune back in for our second episode. I’d ask what the hell is wrong with you, but I think it’s rude to insult your listeners when you’re only two episodes into your brand new podcast. Either way, we’re very excited to dive deeper today into the world […]

  • Episode 1 – In The Beginning…Bourbon

    Episode 1 – In The Beginning…Bourbon

    Apple Pie. Denim. Bourbon. They’re pretty much interchangeable with the good ‘ole Red, White and Blue and for folks like us there’s no doubt bourbon is the essential American liquor. A variety of whiskey, bourbon takes its name from Bourbon County, Kentucky; you know — the home of thoroughbred horses and Bluegrass. Combine some classic Kentucky […]

  • Cigars of the Year, a Photo Essay

    Cigars of the Year, a Photo Essay

    As May approaches the horizon, I wanted to take a look at the more memorable smokes of this year. It’s been an exciting 2019, and we’ve found some excellent new sticks at Stogies and Mash. Getting out to events, tasting and lighting up new cigars, it’s part of our passion for the gentleman’s vice. 2019 […]

  • World of Whiskies at Binny’s

    World of Whiskies at Binny’s

    Stogies and Mash had an opportunity to attend the World of Whiskies at Binny’s in March. A premier event for lovers of all things whiskey, whisky, and bourbon, World of Whiskies is hosted every year the night before WhiskyFest in Chicago. With all of those liquor companies in town for WhiskyFest, the community gathers each […]