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Walter Zausch and Lisa Roper-Wicker share the exciting news of Lisa joining Whiskey Thief Distilling Company as their master distiller, a perfect pairing that feels like she's been part of the team for years rather than months.

• Lisa is overseeing increased production with four fermentations currently running
• Whiskey Thief is planning to build additional rick houses on their property to accommodate growth
• The emotional connection distillers have to their whiskey, with Lisa comparing leaving whiskey behind to "taking children to college"
• The balance between technical perfection and flavor in whiskey production
• How weather and barrel conditions can dramatically affect whiskey flavor profiles
• The innovative barrel selection experience at Whiskey Thief that allows visitors to taste directly from multiple barrels
• Whiskey Thief's "5th of July" toasted barrel bourbon and seasonal releases

Join us at Whiskey Thief Distilling in Frankfurt or New Luton for an exceptional tasting experience with five-barrel stations and the opportunity to bottle your own selection.

The bourbon world just got a whole lot more exciting as master distiller Lisa Roper-Wicker joins the innovative team at Whiskey Thief Distilling Company. In this lively, candid conversation, we dive deep into what this partnership means for Kentucky's whiskey landscape and why it feels like Lisa has "always been here" despite joining just months ago.

The chemistry between Lisa and the Whiskey Thief team is immediately apparent as they share their vision for ramping up production while maintaining the exceptional quality that has made them a must-visit destination on the bourbon trail. With four fermentations currently underway and plans for additional rick houses, there's a palpable sense of momentum that has everyone in the industry paying attention.

What truly sets this episode apart is the rare glimpse into the emotional side of distilling. Lisa opens up about the bittersweet experience of seeing whiskeys she created at previous distilleries being released without her input, comparing it to "taking children to college" – you've done everything you could, but decisions will now be made differently. This deeply personal perspective reveals the intimate connection between distillers and their craft that casual bourbon drinkers rarely get to witness.

The conversation takes fascinating turns into the technicalities of whiskey production, from barrel char levels to fermentation characteristics, all discussed with the comfortable banter of friends sharing drinks rather than experts delivering lectures. They explore the fine line between whiskey "flaws" and distinctive character, challenging conventional wisdom about what makes a bourbon exceptional.

Whether you're a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or just beginning your whiskey journey, this episode offers valuable insights into how Whiskey Thief is redefining the distillery experience with their innovative barrel selection program and commitment to customer engagement. Pour yourself something special and join us for this toast to new beginnings, innovative spirits, and the human stories behind every exceptional bottle.

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