The Hard Proof - podcast cover

The Hard Proof

The Hard Proofthehardproof.com

We’re tired of it. Tired of the cryptic tasting notes. Tired of the elaborate marketing schemes. Tired of the pretentious plague that has sickened the whiskey industry for far too long now. We’ve had enough of the mind-boggling allocated bottle events where liquor store owners force grown men to act like 5th graders in exchange for a chance to buy a bottle of Weller at retail.

The Hard Proof is on a mission to revitalize the whiskey industry and take it back to a time when whiskey was purchased, enjoyed and shared as it should be. No more buying bottles 200% over MSRP just to have a backup bottle for the one you haven’t even opened yet.

We're not afraid to point fingers, shake up the establishment, and have a good laugh while doing it. Join us as we call out the culprits contributing to the pretentious disease destroying the spirits industry and provide a no-nonsense guide through the whiskey landscape. Pour yourself a glass, settle in, and let's cut through the bullshit - one pour at a time.

Episodes

Elvis Whiskey and a Yellowstone Pick

Today, we dive into a new celebrity whiskey hitting shelves in hopes that our 'Suspicious Minds' are put at ease. We also reveal the brand new Yellowstone Pick done exclusively with Elixir Spirits! Learn More: Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info ....

Nov 05, 202118 min

Bearded-in-Bond

Halloween may be over, but Movember has just arrived! JD also apparently had a birthday that no one was told about...? Mind games... mind games... mind games... Learn More: Fable Beard Co: https://fablebeardco.com/ Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info ....

Nov 03, 202127 minSeason 5Ep. 64

Whiskey Review: Westward ft. Christian Krogstad

This week, we dive into a long overdue tasting and interview with Christian Krogstad, founder and master distiller of Westward Whiskey in Oregon. All eyes are on JP as he tastes his way through the pacific northwestern lineup to make amends with malt whiskey. Learn More: Westward Whiskey: https://westwardwhiskey.com/ Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Pri...

Oct 29, 202148 min

Tricks & Treats: 2021 Halloween Spooktacular

Guys and ghouls, it's time once again for the annual Blue Collar Bourbon Halloween Spooktacular! And in true form, Mead Man and Beer Boi have taken the reigns for what they believe will be a 'less painful' edition of our tried and true seasonal special. But on the Blue Collar Bourbon Show, no treat comes without a trick... Learn More: Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy ...

Oct 27, 202128 minSeason 5Ep. 63

Whiskey Review: Blackened American Whiskey

Join us for a louder-than-life episode this week, as we get our hands on the latest offerings from Blackened American Whiskey. We taste the standard Blackened American Whiskey, the limited addition cask strength, as well as the latest Masters of Whiskey Series: Blackened X Willett Rye. Will the black noise resonate with our tastebuds, or will the flavors fall flat? Learn More: Blackened American Whiskey: https://blackenedwhiskey.com/ Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon...

Oct 22, 202118 min

Patreon Purveyor's Pours: Jerry Farissier

Today, a true Florida man joins us in studio for another edition of Patreon Purveyor's Pours! Faithful Patreon supporter, Jerry, brings triple the amount of pours we're used to. This one's gonna be a doozie. Want to host your own Patreon Purveyor's Pours? Sign up for our Patreon here:  http://patreon.com/bluecollarbourbon Learn More: Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/priv...

Oct 20, 202141 minSeason 5Ep. 62

Whiskey Review: Jack Daniel's 10-Year Tennessee Whiskey

Join us for a short and sweet bonus this week, as we get a taste of the much anticipated Jack Daniel's 10-Year Tennessee Whiskey. Does it live up to the hype, or does Jack still have better offerings for a lower price? Learn More: Jack Daniel's: https://www.jackdaniels.com/en-us Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privac...

Oct 15, 20219 min

This is D-Rock's Birthday

It's D-Rock's birthday today, and what better way to celebrate than to make him supply the pours! He's bringing for the second week in a row, this time with a 'choose your cheers' double feature from his very own collection... Learn More: Join us on Patreon:  https://www.patreon.com/bluecollarbourbon Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice ...

Oct 13, 202129 minSeason 5Ep. 61

Mead Man & Beer Boi Takeover: Honeytree Meadery Pt. 2

It's been a crazy week for us at the Blue Collar Bourbon Show, so to make it just a little bit crazier, we decided to let Mead Man and Beer Boi take charge of this bonus episode. Join them on their second journey to Nashville's very own Honeytree Meadery to see what's changed over the last year! Connect with Honeytree Meadery: Website: https://honeytreemeadery.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/honeytreemeadery/?hl=en Learn More: Join us on Patreon:  https://www.patreon.com/bluecolla...

Oct 08, 202135 min

The Fanny Flask

This week, D-Rock is in charge of the blind pours, and leaves us wondering how we haven't featured them yet on the show! Also, debate ensues over the ever-controversial fanny pack, and what could be done to make it wearable by all. Learn More: Join us on Patreon:  https://www.patreon.com/bluecollarbourbon Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy No...

Oct 06, 202135 minSeason 5Ep. 60

Whiskey Review: Slipknot & Spirits with Cedar Ridge Distillery

Today’s episode takes us to Swisher, Idaho, as we interview Murphy Quint, the Operations Director at Cedar Ridge Distillery. Murphy takes us through Cedar Ridge’s Iowa Straight Whiskey, their Quintessential Single Malt and their most notoriously known celebrity offering, Slipknot No.9 Iowa Whiskey. Learn More: Cedar Ridge Distillery: https://cedarridgewhiskey.com/ Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy...

Oct 01, 202152 min

Blue Collar Bourbon: Best Of

This week, we've decided to compile what we consider "The Best of Blue Collar Bourbon," a collection of some of our finest (and not so finest moments) from episodes past. Whether you're a brand new listener or a long-time supporter, we hope you get a kick out of our favorite memories. Learn More: Join us on Patreon:  https://www.patreon.com/bluecollarbourbon Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy ...

Sep 29, 202140 minSeason 5Ep. 59

Bottled in Bong

Today, in a spicy twist, Mead Man and Beer Boi bring something very un-whiskey-like to the table. Has "The Worst Episode Ever" finally found its competition? Learn More: Join us on Patreon:  https://www.patreon.com/bluecollarbourbon Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info ....

Sep 24, 202123 min

The Blue Collar Brewer

It's time yet again for another Wildcard Wednesday. With a guest nonetheless! Along with a slew of pours, JP also brings in a guest for their first official blind tasting on the show. Ladies and gentlemen, meet T he Brewer. Learn More: Join us on Patreon:  https://www.patreon.com/bluecollarbourbon Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at ...

Sep 22, 202128 minSeason 5Ep. 58

Whiskey Review: Leiper's Fork Bourbon

Today we are joined by our good friend Lee Kennedy, owner and master distiller of Leiper's Fork Distillery, to taste their latest offering: Leiper's Fork Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon. He also surprises us with some special offerings that aren't so easy to get a hold of... Learn More: Leiper's Fork Distillery: https://leipersforkdistillery.com/ Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/priv...

Sep 17, 202138 min

Patreon Purveyor's Pours: WAYNE Returns

This week, the show gets hijacked! Our loyal and longtime Patreon supporter, Wayne, returns for another edition of Patreon Purveyor's Pours with a hefty 5-pour lineup, including a special tasting for Mead Man. We run through some bottles you don't want to miss. Learn More: Join us on Patreon:  https://www.patreon.com/bluecollarbourbon Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/pri...

Sep 15, 202155 minSeason 5Ep. 57

Whiskey Review: Starlight Distillery

Hailing from Starlight, IN, we sit down with our friends James and Andrew from Starlight Distillery to review their Indiana bourbon, double-oaked bourbon, and cask strength rye. Learn More: Starlight Distillery:  https://www.huberwinery.com/starlight-distillery/shop-our-spirits/ Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/p...

Sep 10, 202136 min

Does Candy Corn Go Bad?

This week, D-Rock is bringing the pours! Will he continue his legacy as 'old faithful,' or will today take a turn for the 'trash?' Also, with autumn fast approaching, we debate some important questions! Learn More: Join us on Patreon:  https://www.patreon.com/bluecollarbourbon Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/pri...

Sep 08, 202140 minSeason 5Ep. 56

The Rum Round-Up

We decided to shake it up this week, bringing in some of his favorite rum selections for us to taste! Will JP be able to stomach this sweet lineup, or will these pours give him the rumaround? Learn More: Join us on Patreon:  https://www.patreon.com/bluecollarbourbon Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not...

Sep 03, 202121 min

The Devil's Creed

Today’s episode is packed full of great pours; but first, we have a bone to pick with the internet! JD not only brings the ‘madness’, but he’s also bringing a very special guest for our ‘Choose Your Cheers’ segment! Learn More: Join us on Patreon:  https://www.patreon.com/bluecollarbourbon Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://...

Sep 01, 202139 minSeason 5Ep. 55

Whiskey Review: Barrell Bourbon & Seagrass Rye

On today’s bonus episode, our friends from Barrell Craft Spirits send their latest bourbon release, along with their new Seagrass Rye to review. Learn More: Barrell Craft Spirits:  https://www.barrellbourbon.com Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info ....

Aug 27, 202121 min

Cash and The King

Today we have two great friends on the show, C-Money and our first top tier patron, The King of Bourbon! JP the wildcard is bringing the blind pours so it’s anyone’s guess if redemption can be found in these pours, or if they’re even American whiskeys? Learn More: Join us on Patreon:  https://www.patreon.com/bluecollarbourbon Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and ...

Aug 25, 202140 minSeason 5Ep. 54

Whiskey Review: Bulleit Whiskey

On today’s episode, we go behind the bottle on the history of our friends at Bulleit, as well as review their bourbon, rye, and a special local store pick! Learn More: Bulleit Whiskey:  https://www.bulleit.com Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info ....

Aug 20, 202123 min

One Wigglin' Whiskey

Mead Man and Beer Boi are back and better than ever. Will they redeem themselves and win over the Blue Collar Boys with some stellar picks? Could they be any more handsome? Did they write this episode description? The world may never know... Learn More: Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info ....

Aug 18, 202130 minSeason 5Ep. 53

BCB Presents: The Transatlantic Times

Something is a bit off this week... Where's D-Rock? Wait... Who drank all of the William Larue Weller?? Listen to The Transatlantic Times Wherever You Get Podcasts: Learn More: The Transatlantic Times:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info ....

Aug 13, 202112 min

Patreon Purveyor's Pours: Mike Goodner Returns

Longtime Patron and ‘Master of Malts,’ Mike Goodner, joins us live in the studio to share some of his newest offerings from Kentucky, Tennessee and the Pacific Northwest. Learn More: Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info ....

Aug 11, 202146 minSeason 5Ep. 52

The Triple Bonus

In this first-ever triple bonus episode, we conduct our very first old dusty shootout! Next, we take advantage of a timely circumstance and introduce "The Misadventures of Mead Man." And last, but not least, our friend, Jes, concocts something that takes the words out of our mouths. Learn More: Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://...

Aug 06, 202139 min

Baseball, Balboa, and Bourbon

This week D-Rock is bringing the blind pours! We also talk about his trip to Wrigley Field, eating pig head(?!), and drinking a ‘goat fat’ old fashioned. Learn More: Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info ....

Aug 04, 202135 minSeason 5Ep. 51

Whiskey Review: Whistlepig Rye Whiskey

Today on the show we sit down with Brand Steward for Whistlepig Whiskey, Laura Leon, as she takes us through 3 of some their finest ryes available: Farmstock 6 Year Rye, Old World 12 Year (Triple Barrel Finished) Rye and their Piggyback 6 Year Rye. We also chat about the history behind the brand, their efforts to constantly create innovative whiskeys, as well as what the future landscape holds for their company and upcoming releases. Learn More: Whistlepig Whiskey:  http://whistlepigwhiskey...

Jul 30, 202143 min

Shania Twain and Mind Games

It’s JD’s turn to bring the blind pours this week, and he’s out to impress! We also talk about the ‘Pappygate’ episodes featured on the Netflix series, ‘Heist’, and get into a brand new Wild Card Wondering with JP. Learn More: Blue Collar Bourbon:  https://linktr.ee/bluecollarbourbon Lasting Media:  https://linktr.ee/lastingmedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info ....

Jul 28, 202136 minSeason 5Ep. 50