Not Another Whisky Podcast

Mitch heads up to the Little Brown Dog HQ to sit down with Managing Director, DR. Andrew Smith for a properly relaxed, no-BS chat about independent bottling—and everything around it.

They get into how Andrew went from hospitality (with a brief detour towards becoming a vet) to co-running one of Scotland’s more quietly interesting bottlers, what actually makes a cask worth bottling in today’s market, and why they’re not just sticking to whisky.

From Scotch to rum to Calvados, this is a conversation about flavour over category—and whether whisky dri...

Arthur Motley on Cask Backrooms, Whisky Identity, and the Liquid Antiquarian

Arthur Motley joins Mitch & Daz in Bennet’s Bar for a cracking conversation on cask buying, whisky identity, and what happens when one of the industry’s most experienced retailers decides to go it alone.

From his early days at the Scotch Malt Whisky Society to 21 years at Royal Mile Whiskies — where he worked his way from cask buyer to managing director — Arthur has seen whisky from just about every angle.

He talks about the wild early-2000s cask market...

Time For Whisky’s Martin Eber on Hong Kong’s Generosity, Japan’s Bar Magic, and Keeping Whiskey Blogs Alive

Daz welcomes Martin Eber of Time For Whisky, an Australian whisky blogger he has known for about 11 years, to discuss his journey from collecting travel-retail bottles in 2008–2009 to starting the Time For Whisky blog in 2012 and moving to Hong Kong in 2014 as the scene rapidly expanded. They highlight Hong Kong’s uniquely generous whisky culture, where rare bottles are opened and shared, and discuss the decline of long-form whisky blogs amid social media and AI-generated content, with Marti...

India is the largest whisky market in the world , yet Scottish whisky still represents only a tiny slice of what’s actually being drunk. In this episode, Mitch and Daz unpack the reality behind the headlines and explore how the Indian whisky ecosystem really works.

From IMFL (Indian Made Foreign Liquor) and the role Scottish Whisky plays inside local blends, to changing consumer trends, tariffs, cocktail culture, and the rise of Indian single malts, this episode dives into one of the most complex — and fascinating — whisky markets on the planet.

To get a proper...

Nicholas Pollacchi joins Mitch and Daz for the 200th episode of Not Another Whisky Podcast — which feels equal parts milestone and minor miracle.

We rewind to April 2021 when the audio was ropey, the format was loose, and Mitch decided he’d edit every episode himself (questionable life choice). From there, listener questions take over — which means things escalate quickly.

We relive:

This week we welcome Ardnahoe distillery manager David Livingston to discuss the Islay distillery’s location, origins, and whisky style. Livingston explains Hunter Laing’s long-held ambition to create their own distillery, Ardnahoe’s opening in 2018, and his own third-generation Islay whisky background. He reflects on how Islay has changed with tourism and the rise of single malts, and why whisky is vital to the island’s economy as farming and fishing decline. The conversation covers Fèis Ìle’s growth and 40th anniversary, Ardnahoe’s early production moments, and the distillery’s approach to making spirit—slow mashing, fermentations over...

This week Mitch sits down with David Stirk — whisky writer, independent bottler, whisky historian — for a wide-ranging conversation on Campbeltown, the rise (and early struggles) of indie bottlers, and where the Scotch industry is and might actually be heading.

From his first life-changing dram of Glenlivet 21 in 1996 to building Creative Whisky, rewriting the history of Campbeltown, and diving into a Master’s in History to sharpen his research, this episode covers David's graft, controversy, and some properly strong opinions about surplus production and the future of Scotch.

Before all that, though…

Daz an...

This week on Not Another Whisky Podcast, Mitch & Daz do something dangerously self-indulgent: they look back at how this whole thing started. From a shared love of whisky (and questionable decision-making) to accidentally building a podcast people actually listen to, they dig into the origins of NAWP, the friendships that fuel it, and why they’ve never quite followed the “normal” whisky podcast rulebook.

They chat inspiration, format, and how their approach stacks up against other whisky pods — including why they’ve always leaned into conversation over catechism, curiosity over credentials, and fun over faux-seriousness.

Then thing...

A lively kick-off of Season 6, the Mitch & Daz welcome listeners with a post-holiday catch-up. They contemplate the ideal cutoff for New Year greetings, and share their plans for revealing their weights in the next episode (maybe not!)

They get into their festive adventures, from drinking boutique whiskies to escaping to sunny Portugal. The duo previews exciting plans for 2026, including 45 episodes, live shows, and their participation in the Spirit of Speyside Festival with industry heavyweights. They touch on Whisky news, including a trademark battle involving James Martin, changes in Whisky tourism with Clynelish's closure, and exciting new...

Mitch & Daz sit down and look back on the year that was 2025. Thanks to all of you who listened to us this year and have a great festive season, we will be back 1st Feb 2026

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Exploring Glenlivet's New Cask Masters Collection with Andrew Bardsley and Kevin Balmforth

In this episode, we dive into the Glenlivet's new Cask Masters collection with special guests and Kevin Balmforth, Glenlivet’s newly appointed Master Blender and Andrew Bardsley, the Global Brand Director of Prestige at Pernod Ricard, The discussion touches on their personal experiences, motivations, and approaches to crafting these unique whiskies. We taste and evaluates three new expressions: the 14-year-old, 16-year-old, and 19-year-old, highlighting the distinct flavours, casks, and innovations involved. Kevin also shares insights into the creation of the Glenlivet 56-year-old special release, an...

In this episode, Mitch welcomes back Mark Thomson, to the Pod. They chat about Mark's recent departure from Duncan Taylor. Mark discusses his transition to freelance work, selling his house, and moving to the countryside. They delve into the current state of the whisky industry, including trends, pricing, and the future of brand ambassadorship.

Mark also shares his top picks for value whiskies under £100 :

-https://www.inchdairniedistillery.com/

-https://www.glenscotia.com/products/12-year-old-single-malt-whisky

https://www.arranwhisky.com/shop-whiskies/arran-single-malts/14-arran-quarter-cask-whisky-the-bothy

https://www.bowmore.c...

Mitch chats with Greg Schwartz and Guy Satchwell, the masterminds behind the riveting whisky docuseries, 'Water of Life' and 'Independent Spirits'. Get a front-row seat to their journey from film sets to distilleries, the joyous mayhem of their shoots, and the serendipitous moments that fuelled their passion projects. Along the way, they spill secrets about their upcoming 'Farm to Bottle' series and tease the next Independent Spirits Festival. Spoiler: there’s plenty of whisky, collegiality, and late-night drams in between!

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:43 Meet the Guests: Greg Schwartz and Guy Satchel

Welcome back to the chaos! Daz and Mitch kick off the episode with beard banter and a Santa lookalike contest. Then they rejoice over Scotland's World Cup qualification. Mitch shares his packed schedule, including tours and tastings with bartenders and ambassadors from across the globe. The episode also features an interview with Tom Jolly and Pavel Sowa from the new fine dining spot - Geamair blending local produce with innovative dishes. They chat about Bruichladdich's quadruple distilled whisky, RoseIsle maltings halting production, and Glencadams new visitor centre.

00:00 A Humorous Start

01:26 Celebrating Scotland's World Cup Qu...

In this special episode of 'Not Another Whisky Podcast,' hosts celebrate nearing their 200th show by welcoming co-host Mitch Beard as a guest on his own podcast!

Mitch discusses his recently published book, 'Not Another F*cking Whisky Book,' shares some of its hilarious anecdotes, and reflects on the challenges and inspirations behind writing it. They delve into the unique storytelling style, the process of self-publishing, and how his personal stories intertwine with serious whisky industry topics.

Check out the book here

00:00 Introduction and Episode M...

This week, Mitch goes it alone and visits the brand new Eden Mill Distillery in Guardbridge, just a stone’s throw from the historic town of St Andrews, where he catches up with the Brand Home Manager, Euan Kinninmonth.

Set on the banks of the stunning Eden Estuary (with views toward the iconic St Andrews skyline), Eden Mill blends rich heritage with bold modern innovation. Euan guides Mitch through the distillery’s dual focus on both gin and whisky — from their award-winning coastal gins (including botanicals sourced from the local Fife landscape) to their rapidly evolving single...

This week Mitch and Daz sit down with Sullivans Cove CEO, Andy Gaunt, they chat all thing Tasmanian whisky and get to try their new 25 year old (the oldest 'New World' whisky to hit the market.)

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This weeks episode sees Mitch & Daz sit down and talk about what they have been upo to including Mitch's launch of his new edition of Turas Mòr whisky a Bruichladdich 18 year finished in a rum cask. Daz talks about attending the Distillers one of one auction and how his Laphroiag reached 6 figures for the incredible charity auction and they catch up on all the news including the disater that saw the Macallan tree fall down.

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Join Mitch and the legendary Alan Winchester, with over five decades of experience in the whisky world, as they dive into the rich history and stories behind Aberlour. Recorded at the cozy Quaich Bar in the Craigellachie Hotel, the episode covers Alan's illustrious career, his firsthand experiences at Aberlour, and his latest adventures from safari trips in South Africa to whisky shows in Johannesburg and Cape Town. Alan shares fascinating insights about the history of Aberlour Distillery, the use of the Solera method, and the upcoming new distillery project.

The duo also tastes three exclusive travel...

In this episode of 'Not Another Whisky Podcast,' Daz dives into the world of traditional whisky-making at the soon to be completed Kythe Distillery. Daz visits the distillery to caht with co-founders Jonny McMillan and Angus MacRaild. They discuss their passion for old-style whisky and the journey that led them to establish their distillery in the scenic Perthshire area. From using floor-malted barley to direct fire stills, find out why they are dedicated to recreating the quality and character of vintage whisky. Tune in to hear about their innovative and authentic approach to distillation, the challenges they face...

In this episode host Mitch Bechard dives into the intriguing world of whisky and murder mysteries with author Natalie Jayne Clark, discussing her debut novel 'The Malt Whisky Murders.' They chat about everything from the novel's inspiration, set in Campbelltown's rich whisky history, to Natalie’s personal whisky journey, and her writing process. The conversation touches on how whisky lovers have embraced her book, with nods to distilleries like Benromach and Bruichladdich. Tune in for tastings, murder plots, and what might be brewing for her next book.

00:00 Introduction to 'The Malt Whi...

In this episode of Not Another Whisky podcast, Mitch dives solo into the fascinating world of global travel retail and its impact on the Scotch whisky industry. Joined by special guest Andrew Bardsley, Global Director of Prestige at Pernod Ricard, they explore the importance of airport whisky shelves, the allure of travel-exclusive releases, and the exciting new Aberlour range. Andrew shares insights from his 20+ years in the spirits business, detailing how travel retail has evolved and why it's a critical shop window for whisky brands. They discuss everything from consumer behavior, the role of brand ambassadors, and the growth...

In this week’s banter-fuelled episode of Not Another Whisky Podcast, Mitch Bechard and Daz Haldane take you on a whirlwind journey through whisky news, wild tangents, and plenty of laughs.

The chat kicks off with an unexpected detour into the world of airline pilots (blame Charlie Sheen’s new Netflix show), before the lads swap stories from their recent whisky escapades. Mitch shares tales from his whirlwind whisky tours across Scotland, while Daz reflects on highlights from Distillers One of One and his induction into the prestigious Keepers of the Quaich.

From ther...

A CHAT WITH DAVE BROOM & OLIVER CHILTON ABOUT THE MACBETH SERIES

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In this episode Mitch & Daz explore the Distillers One of One event, a biennial charity auction that has raised over £4.3 million since 2021 for Scotland's Youth Action Fund. The special guest, Beanie Espy, Managing Director of Distillers Ventures Limited, delves into her role and the complexities of organizing such an immense undertaking. Highlights include a sneak peek at the exclusive one-off whisky bottles to be auctioned, such as the Laphroaig 40 capsule and Port Ellen Prism. Beanie also discusses the philanthropic impact of the event and shares inspiring stories of young people whose lives have been transformed by the funds raised. A...

This week Mitch sits down with Scott Sneddon, Managing Director (Distilling) at InchDairnie Distillery in Fife, for a deep dive into one of Scotland’s most innovative whisky makers.

They chat about RyeLaw, InchDairnie’s bold rye whisky, and the newly released KinGlassie 8-year-old single malts. Expect plenty of geekery along the way – from hammer mills to mash filters – as Scott lifts the lid on what makes InchDairnie tick.

Daz also makes a brief appearance (well, sort of… let’s just say his Wi-Fi didn’t get the memo).

If you’re into Sc...

Mitch & Daz reunite after a long break, joking about their beards and upcoming haircuts. They delve into recent whisky experiences, including rare tastings in London, distillery visits, and notable birthdays. They chat on the news including - oldest single malt release, changes in personnel at major distilleries, and adventurous charity rows across the Pacific with the Maclean Brothers. Additionally, the episode features an chat with Fraser Morrison and his participation in the 'Easiest Whisky Quiz in the World,' along with discussions on upcoming whisky-related events and personal anecdotes from recent travels.

00:00 Catching Up After a L...

In this lively episode of Not Another Whisky Podcast, recorded at the Craigellachie Hotel, Mitch introduces three special guests: David Stirk of North Star Spirits, Pete Allison of Woven, and Greg Urqhart from Gleann Mór. The attendees delve into the fascinating world of independent whiskey bottlers. Each guest shares their unique perspective, experiences, and prized whisky with the audience. The discussion ranges from the challenges and rewards of independent bottling to the evolution of whisky consumption trends. Amid jest and camaraderie, the panel explores blending, the marketability of aged whisky, and gives advice for aspiring bottlers. The audience p...

Join us on the latest episode as Daz chats with Boris and Sebastian from the Wu Dram Clan. These gents are not just about business; they’re all about passion for spirits, from whisky to cognac and rum. Starting in 2018, they've gone on some wild adventures, from Munich beer gardens to Black Forest weather, and all the way to the Caribbean for some authentic rum education. Learn about their unique partnerships with big distilleries, their collector habits, and the insider scoop on rare whisky and rum bottles. This episode is a deep dive into the world of spirits that tr...

In this episode of Not Another Whiskey Podcast, Mitch and Daz are joined by Bari Reid, the wizard behind some of the UK's trendiest and most head-turning whisky distilleries. Bari spills the beans on his journey from sketching houses to crafting epic distilleries, all while dealing with sustainability buzzkills and client fantasies. They chat about everything from the highs and lows of glass gables to why designing distilleries can be like herding cats.

And just when Bari thought he'd dodged a bullet, he's thrown into the hot seat for the World's Easiest Whisky Quiz. Spoiler alert...

This week, we sit down with Alex Munch — Co-founder and Chief Mischief Officer (well, technically Chief Marketing Officer) at Stauning Whisky, Denmark’s trailblazing distillery that put Danish whisky on the map.

We dive into life after Distill Ventures, the shifting gears of independence, and why the team is now steering Stauning back to its roots. Expect candid chat about scaling back to move forward, embracing tradition with a modern twist, and what the future holds for one of Europe’s most innovative (and stubbornly Danish) distilleries.

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Mitch and Daz catch up on their recent adventures in the world of whisky including various whisky tours on Islay, a luxurious trip around Speyside and a cycle adventure completing the Speyside Way. Mitch gives an update on his upcoming book, 'Not Another F***ing Whisky Book,' and the duo brainstorm the best whisky books. They also discuss whisky news, including Glenmorangie's partnership with Formula 1 and Richard Hammond's new whisky venture. To add excitement, they introduce 'The Easiest Whisky Quiz in the World,' where rapid-fire questions lead to humorous mishaps, with Daz being the first contestant. Listeners...

Today, Mitch and Daz are diving into the world of Japanese whisky with a special guest, Dave Broom, a hairy, wise, and well-traveled whisky expert who might have been aged in oak himself. The episode takes listeners through the heritage, craft, and unique philosophy behind Japanese whisky, exploring everything from its flavor profiles to its cultural connections. Along the way, they touch on the whisky scene's evolution, regulatory needs, and the ever-enjoyable highball. Get ready for an informative, yet hilarious journey through the land of Samurai, sushi, and sublime whisky.

00:00 Introduction to the P...

From Near-Death Experiences to Whisky Regulations

In this episode Mitch welcome their guest, James Buntin, to dive into the world of Australian whisky. (Recorded after a near-death biking incident :), the discussion spans James' recent adventures, Australian whisky's booming scene led by pioneers like Bill Lark, and the rising number of distilleries down under. They explore unusual finishes like ginger beer casks, the lack of strict regulations fostering innovation, and the developing visitor experiences in Australian distilleries. They also talk about whisky tasting traditions, innovative distilleries, and the influence of the Whiskey Club in Australia.

Daz catches up with special guest Nick Hammond, a renowned writer and author of 'Around the World in 80 Cigars.' This candid conversation dives into the rich traditions of the cigar world, the intimate art of cigar pairing, and some unforgettable moments from Nick's travels. Tune in for a blend of humour, deep dives into flavour nuances, and a celebration of the bonds created over a good smoke and a great drink.

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In this lively episode of Not Another Whisky Podcast, Mitch and Daz catch up after a hectic month. They banter about haircuts, and whisky-induced running adventures. They dive deep into recent whisky festivals, highlighting the Spirit of Speyside and Fèis Ìle. The duo touches on the boom in "gastro-distilleries" (but lets never call it that again), the drop in the importance of getting your prostate checked!! Then on to the news including the list of the top 10 distillery visits, and there's a sneak peek at upcoming live events. Grab a dram and enjoy!

Another cracking live episode from the heart of the Fèis Ìle Islay Whisky Festival, hosted by Daz. He’s joined by the legendary Peter Maclellan, owner of Lucci’s Bar in Bowmore—a man who knows his way around both a coffee machine and a good dram. Recorded in front of a live and very enthusiastic audience, the pair dive into a tasting of five distinct Bowmore expressions, each revealing a different side of Islay’s smoky soul. Expect tasting notes, laughter, the occasional rogue opinion, and a deep love for the island that makes it all possible.

Suppo...

Recorded live at the Spirit of Speyside festival, three whisky industry titans—Sarah Burgess from the Lakes Distillery, Callum Fraser from Glenfarclas, and Polly Logan from Tormore—bring both insights and laughs. Hosted in front of an energetic audience, the panellists share their wisdom on whisky making, the challenges of sustainability, and hilarious behind-the-scenes stories, including celebrity encounters and mishaps. The event features a Shakespearean acting segment that had everyone in stitches, a rapid-fire question round that goes delightfully off the rails, and an audience vote for the favourite whisky of the night. This episode is a blend of expe...

Daz sits down with an Olympian Luke Patience to discuss his whisky Unkiltered

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In this lively episode of 'Not Another Whiskey Podcast,' the stage is set at the renowned Craigellachie Hotel for the 2025 Spirit of Speyside live episode—a hilarious live episode featuring a 'brand ambassador showdown.'

Hosted by Daz, the festivities include humorous and heartfelt stories from several esteemed whiskey ambassadors: Struan Grant Ralph, Mark Thompson, Gordon Dundas, and Charlotte Coyle. Each ambassador introduces a unique whiskey, taking the audience on a flavorful journey through their selections. The evening also delves into spirited discussions on topics like the value of blended malt and non-age statement whiskeys, ma...