483. Craft Innovation & Contract Kings: Inside Lofted Spirits

Welcome back to another exciting episode of The Bourbon Road! This week, hosts Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter are joined by a special guest, Pete Marino, the President of Lofted Spirits. If the name Lofted Spirits sounds new to you, you aren't alone—but you definitely know their brands. Pete is here to pull back the curtain on this newly formed parent company that oversees two of the hottest names in the industry: Bardstown Bourbon Company and Green River Spirits. Pete shares his fascinating journey from a long career in the beer industry (working with brands like Miller and Coors) to leading the charge in American whiskey. He discusses the unique philosophy behind Lofted Spirits, describing Green River as "bourbon without the bullshit" and Bardstown as the home of innovation where there is "nowhere we won't go" to find great whiskey. The conversation dives deep into how the company balances its massive contract distilling operations with building its own award-winning brands, and Pete drops some exciting news about upcoming expansions, including a new small-format bottling line that will bring 50mL and 375mL bottles to market. Of course, it wouldn't be The Bourbon Road without a stellar lineup of pours. The tasting mat is packed with four distinct expressions from the Lofted Spirits portfolio, showcasing the range and craftsmanship of their teams: Bardstown Bourbon Company Origin Series Bottled-in-Bond: This 6-year-old high-rye bourbon (60% corn, 20% rye, 12% malted barley) is a staple of their core lineup. Clocking in at 100 proof, it delivers a classic bourbon profile that Jim and Todd describe as definitive, well-rounded, and packed with baking spices. Bardstown Bourbon Company Origin Series High Wheat: Another 6-year-old stunner, this 39% wheat mash bill is bottled at 106 proof. It offers a softer, floral nose with notes of cherry, vanilla, and honey, accompanied by a surprising white pepper spice on the palate that keeps things interesting. Green River Full Proof Wheated Bourbon: A blend of 5-to-7-year-old barrels, this 117.3-proof bourbon is making waves for its incredible value and robust flavor. The hosts rave about its rich, "chewy" texture and notes of dark fruit and oak, declaring it a top contender for the best value in bourbon today. Bardstown Bourbon Company Discovery Series #13: The heavy hitter of the group. This blend of 8-to-15-year-old whiskeys is finished in Hungarian oak staves, adding a layer of sophisticated spice and dark fruit. At 110.8 proof, it brings a complexity that earns its place as the "big dog" of the tasting. Throughout the episode, Pete gives listeners a sneak peek into the future of both brands, including label evolutions and the promise of more age-stated releases. Whether you are a fan of traditional heritage brands or cutting-edge innovation, this episode offers a perfect pour of industry insight and whiskey appreciation. Tune in to find out which of these four bottles won the hearts (and palates) of Jim and Todd! Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!