The Whiskey Trip - Season 3, Episode 37 - Chris Crowe, President, & Peter Thompson, Head Distiller - Burnt Church Distillery

This week, Big Chief heads to the Lowcountry to sit down with Burnt Church Distillery President Chris Crowe and Head Distiller Peter Thompson in Bluffton, South Carolina. Together, they dive into the traditions of Carolina grains and the bold vision behind one of the Southeast's most exciting craft distilleries. The tasting kicks off with Johny Fever Small Batch, a four-grain whiskey that immediately caught the Big Man's attention with its balance and character. From there, they raise the bar with Anita's Choice, a six-grain whiskey layered with depth, complexity, and a flavor profile that demands respect. In the second half of the show, Big Chief pours a truly unique expression: Bluffton Whiskey, an American rice whiskey crafted with Carolina Gold rice. Its striking character is unlike anything else on the market. The journey ends with Palmer's Stretch, a dark, rich, chocolaty rye whiskey that leaves a lasting impression on the palate and the soul. This episode is more than a tasting, it's a celebration of Southern heritage, bold innovation, and the people who are shaping the future of whiskey in the Carolinas. And just like Burnt Church Distillery, Big Chief believes in the power of freedom of speech, the freedom to create, and the freedom to let your voice be heard. Whiskey tells a story and this week's episode proves that when you have the courage to be creative, the stories only get stronger. So settle in, take the ride, and remember—whiskey is best enjoyed when you sip it slow and easy. Let the flavors tell their story, let the moment breathe, and let the journey be just as rich as the pour in your glass.