The post 11 delicious American craft whiskies I tried for the first time this year appeared first on Golf.

The post 11 delicious American craft whiskies I tried for the first time this year appeared first on Golf.

Whiskey has been a relatively new hobby of mine, something I only just discovered over the last few years. It didn’t take much time along the way to discover how much overlap there is between people who love golf, and people who love whiskey.

Every week — on Wednesdays — I take a break from my customary slate of golf content to talk about whiskey. But with the year coming to an end, I thought I’d go a little deeper. Throughout the week I’ll be highlighting different types of whiskeys that I’ve enjoyed, and I figured we could start off with American craft whiskies. These are smaller, independently-owned companies that either make their own whiskey or source it from elsewhere. It’s a burgeoning scene that’s been pumping-out a bunch of great whiskies in recent years, and I’ve had the pleasure of trying some of them for the first time this year…

1. Barrell Craft Spirits

An independent whiskey blender based in Louisville, Kentucky, that specializes in sourcing unique whiskeys and rums, I had the pleasure of trying three of Barrell’s spirits: Its bourbon line, its rye, and my personal favorite (and the one pictured above) the delightful “Dovetail” expression.

I got a series of deeper, sweet notes of molasses, chocolate and dark cherry with a hit of spice for good measure. Put a sneaky few drops of water into the glass, and I found the spice mellow and a note of orange come through instead.

Learn More about Barrell Craft Spirits here.

2. Sweetens Cove Spirits Company

If you’re a golfer looking for a bourbon to spark a conversation, there’s no better option than Sweetens Cove’s signature spirit. An endeavor from Peyton Manning and Andy Roddick, overseen by Master Blender Marianne Eaves (formerly of Woodford Reserve) and named after the sought-after 9-hole course by the same name, the stuff isn’t the easiest to get, but it’s a treat if you do. I tried the foursome gift set — which is currently only for sale in Tennessee, but includes its more widely-available signature 14-year single barrel Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey (pictured above).

It’s bottled at cask strength, so it has a bit of a bite, but loosen it up with some water and you’ll get long notes of caramel vanilla, and lots of oak.

Learn more about Sweetens Cove Spirits here.

3. The Clover Whiskey

Speaking of whiskeys-for-golfers, 2020 also marked the first year I tried the Bobby Jones-inspired “Clover” whiskey. Named for Jones’ tradition of enjoying three fingers of the the good stuff after a victory, The Clover is popping-up in an increasing number of clubhouses across the country, its 10-year aged bourbon features sweet maple and caramel notes.

Learn more about The Clover here.

4. Chicken Cock Whiskey

The “famous old brand” Chicken Cock was one of the most recognizable whiskey brands in the Kentucky region before it sadly gave way to history when its distillery burned-down in the 1950s. The brand has been revived in recent years, and its bourbon is an easy sipping whiskey with sweet, caramel notes that also serves as a great option for mixing.

Learn More about Chicken Cock here.

5. Traverse City Whiskey Co.

2020 also marked the first time I ever tried whiskey from Michigan, and first time I had ever tried cherry whiskey. Both came at the hands of Traverse City’s range of craft whiskeys. Its cherry whiskey is steeped in cherries grown in the Cherry State on the family who owns the whiskey’s farm. It’s a whiskey first and foremost but features a creative hit of cherry that everyone can have fun enjoying, especially those who may be new to whiskey. Its Barrell Proof Bourbon features strong chocolate notes followed by spicy rye and sweet dates, all of which open even further when with a few drops of water.

Learn More about Traverse City Whiskey here.

6. Westward Whiskey

Another state’s craft whiskey I tried for the first time in 2020: Oregon’s Westward city. The company experiments with a number of different cask finishes, including an interesting Pinot Noir finish where the grapy flavors come through the spirit. But I’m a sucker for rich, chocolate-y whiskies like its Stout Cask finish. Aged in casks that previously held stout beer, it has richer, cocoa notes that make it a delicious after-dinner option.

Learn more about Westward Whiskey here

7. Virginia Distillery Co.

An American Single Malt featuring Malted Barley and spring water from the Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, its signature “Courage & Conviction” line tastes like a classic Speyside scotch with an American flair. Sweet notes of butterscotch and fig compliment a spicy, barrel note.

Learn more about Virginia Distillery Co. here

8. Still Austin Whiskey Co.

The Texas-based distillery’s signature whiskey — a straight bourbon called “The Musician” — is a melding of rye, barley, and a 100 percent Texas-grown corn made in a Scottish-made still. An easy, breezy sipping whiskey with light vanilla and sweet caramel notes.

Learn more about Still Austin Whiskey Co. here

9. Sagamore Spirit

I hadn’t tried many rye whiskeys before this year, but I was lucky to sample a range of them in 2020, Baltimore-based Sagamore Spirit’s Cask Strength Rye chief among them. Rye — rather than corn in bourbon or barley in scotch — is the predominant grain in these whiskeys, which gives it a spicier note than its counterparts.  That’s enhanced by Sagamore’s cask strength expression (which means they don’t dilute it with water before putting it in the bottle), and its hearty cinnamon, black pepper and clove notes make it a fine rye whiskey for special occasions.

Learn More about Sagamore Spirit here.

10. Wheelhorse Whiskey

If you’re rye-curious as I was and looking for to try it without breaking the bank, you won’t find many better options than Wheelhose’s Rye Whiskey, which I also had the pleasure of trying for the first time this year. Bottled at 101 proof, the oak from the barrel cuts matches-up with rye spice, which you can enjoy neat, with ice or in an old fashioned cocktail (my preferred option).

Learn More about Wheelhorse Whiskey here.

11. Breckenridge Distillery

Tucked atop Colorado’s Breckenridge mountains, the distillery claims to be the “world’s highest distillery.” Its signature bourbon is a high-rye whiskey that’s been widely-regarded by Whisky Magazine, and has been aged for three years in charred oak barrels, which gives it pleasant butterscotch and sweet orange notes.

Learn more about Breckenridge Distillery here.

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The post Whisky Wednesday: Here’s how to order a personalized whisky label online appeared first on Golf.

The post Whisky Wednesday: Here’s how to order a personalized whisky label online appeared first on Golf.

The year 2020 has been a strange one for so many golfers. But it’s coming to a close now, which presents an opportunity for you to buy yourself, or one of your friends, something nice. If you’re like me, aka, a whisky-loving golfer, a personalized bottle of whisky is a thoughtful-yet-inexpensive gift that can act as a keepsake that golfers can keep around long after the whisky itself is gone. I can vouch for that personally: I was given a nice bottle of scotch last year with my name engraved on it. I polished off the bottle with some friends last month, but I still proudly have my personalized bottle.

There are a few different distilleries who offer personalized bottles of whisky, but this week we’re focusing on Dewar’s “Make It Personal” campaign, which you can check out right here. The way it works is remarkably simple. You can take your pick between two whiskies: Dewar’s 12 year and Dewar’s 15 year. Both are blended scotches you can learn more about here.

Scroll down on the Dewars.com/makeitpersonal page, and you then have 28 characters to share any message you like on the label itself. You can put your initials on it, as I tried here.

Or you can opt for a more generic message of good cheer, like you see below.

Or, if you want to give a gift while also sharing some simple swing advice to one of your friends, like I am with Tim — whose golf grip is too strong and causing him to hit hooks — you can do that, too!

Once you decide, complete your order and you’ll get your personalized label in the mail. All that’s left is to stick it on your bottle of Dewar’s whisky to give it a more thoughtful and personal touch that goes a long way.

You can check out the Make It Personal page and design your own Dewar’s label right here.

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The post Whiskey Wednesday: Whiskey and a life lesson from Bobby Jones’ grandson appeared first on Golf.

The post Whiskey Wednesday: Whiskey and a life lesson from Bobby Jones’ grandson appeared first on Golf.

If you’re a lover of both golf and whiskey, first off, I congratulate you. Not only do you have impeccable taste, but I too am a fan of both those things, which means you’ve found yourself in the right place.

There’s perhaps no more apparent confluence of golf and American whiskey than The Clover Whiskey. The brand boasts Bobby Jones on the label for each of its bottles, and considering 2020 marks the 90th anniversary of Bobby Jones’ grand slam, I decided to pour myself a dram and call up Dr. Bob Jones IV, the grandson of golf’s grand slam winning golfer.

On The Clover whiskey…

2020 has been a challenging year for many people and businesses — both inside the golf industry and otherwise. The Clover Whiskey is no exception. The Clover line is a relatively new entry into the world of whiskey. They have three lines of single-barrels: A 4-year-old bourbon with notes of oak and caramel; a 10-year-old Tennessee whiskey with heavy notes of vanilla; and a 4-year-old rye, perfect for golfers who like a bit of spice to their whisky.

The Clover was originally sold only in golf clubhouses across the country, but with so many closing temporarily due to the global pandemic, the whiskey has been increasingly available to buy online — with plans for more in the future, Dr. Jones said.

“Each whiskey comes from a single barrel, which gives each whiskey a uniqueness and quality my grandfather would be proud of,” he said.

On a November Masters…

In some ways, strange though it may sound, the seriousness of Covid-19 began to hit home back in early March. America wasn’t in lockdown by then, there were no schedule alterations and indeed, I was on the road at the time, covering the Arnold Palmer invitational. But when Augusta National issued a statement saying they were monitoring the situation for this year’s Masters, it sent a shock wave through golf. Not long after, the club announced it would reschedule the 2020 tournament to November.

Needless to say, Dr. Jones thinks the club that his grandfather co-founded made the right call, and that after a year that’s been so difficult for so many, he thinks the alteration of this year’s tournament will be a highlight for the game.

“I’m sure it will pain them not to have spectators there, but the club has been monitoring things very closely, and they’re doing the right thing,” Dr. Jones said. “My grandfather would be proud. … The tournament this year will be special. It’ll be a celebration for all of golf.”

On the lessons passed down from his grandfather…

Bobby Jones’ accomplishments are hard to fully comprehend within a modern context. Not only did he win the Grand Slam — a feat yet to be matched — he was also a successful lawyer and businessman, who later co-founded and co-designed one of the greatest golf courses on Earth.

But the backbone of all those compliments, Dr. Jones says, was humility. Those lessons have been passed down from generation to generation, and they serve as a great reminders for the rest of us.

“My grandfather used to always tell us, to never forget the big people in life can be very, very small, and the small people in life can be very, very big,” he said. “If you go about your life trying to have a positive impact on people, it’s amazing the impact you have.”

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The post 5 things golfers need to know about smokey whisky, according to an expert appeared first on Golf.

The post 5 things golfers need to know about smokey whisky, according to an expert appeared first on Golf.

It takes about five minutes, once you start learning about whisky, to discover the presence of smoke — or “peat,” as it’s more commonly known in whisky circles.

Like the grip is the golf swing, peat is one of those fundamental things whisky drinkers should know and understand before embarking on their journey.

So, what is peat? For a proper explanation, I asked Diageo’s Global Master of Whisky Ewan Gunn.

Gunn oversees a range of brands, including Talisker, whose distillery is located on the Isle of Skye on North-West coast of Scotland — “the waves of the Atlantic Ocean crash onto the walls of the distillery,” Gunn says. The brand recently partnered with the Billion Oyster Project, which will help re-purpose a billion oyster shells from landfills to build an oyster reed habitat.

Talisker 10 Year

Gunn says the Talisker 10, which I’ve had the pleasure of trying myself, has notes smoke reminiscent of a “bonfire on the beach,” with other spicy, black cracked pepper notes.

Buy Now from go.skimresources.com

Because Talisker has renowned for producing delightful smokey whiskies, we asked Gunn for advice on how golfers can best enjoy the unique flavor.

1. Don’t be afraid to try different kinds

The first rule of whisky golfers need to know is that there are no rules, Gunn says, and certainly no reason to feel intimidated.

“Whisky, and particular scotch, cane come with a lot of different tastes, textures and flavors,” he says. “Don’t be intimidated, try a variety of whiskies in a variety of ways at a variety of time … Try to pick out certain specific flavors. You may notice a bit of smoke and a bit of spice.”

2. It’s ok to mix your whisky

Some people will try to tell you not to mix your whisky. Trying it neat is fine, but so is mixing in other things, Gunn says.

“If you look back historically, people were mixing whisky with honey, with citrus. I’m not sure how this idea that you can’t mix whisky came along,” Gunn says. “If it’s putting a smile on your face, you’re enjoying it right.”

3. The smoke flavor in whisky is the result of how the barley is dried

Whisky is made barley, which is first wet to release the sugars (“malted”), then dried, then mashed and distilled. The amount of peat used to dry the barley will influence the smokey flavor within, Gunn says.

“We dig it out of the ground, dry it and burn it. You only need a little bit of it, but the smoke filters through [the barley] and dries it … The phenol gives you the smokey flavor. Talisker is medium peated, so it’s not too smokey or intense.”

4. There are different kinds of smoke

Where the peat comes can have a notable influence over the taste, Gunn says. The different environments can result in different times of smoke, from wet and ocean-y to drier campfire-type smoke.

“It’s a very elemental flavor,” Gunn says. “The best whiskies are the ones that transport you and give you sense of place.”

5. What food should you eat with smokey whisky?

It depends on the whisky, Gunn says, but generally speaking you want to either compare or contrast. Given salt and brine presence in Talisker, he recommends oysters.

“The coastal brine and sweetness of the oyster, and the mineral smoke of the Talisker,” Gunn says. “The flavor combination of the match made in heaven.”

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The post It’s National Scotch Day! Here are 13 of my favorite Scotch whiskies for golfers appeared first on Golf.

The post It’s National Scotch Day! Here are 13 of my favorite Scotch whiskies for golfers appeared first on Golf.

When it comes to national days, National Scotch Day is up there for me. Mostly because it means I can enjoy a nice glass of scotch a nice glass of whiskey guilt free on a Monday in celebration, but also because it gives me an opportunity to share a few of my favorite whiskies with you, the good people of GOLF.com.

So, without further adieu, here are a few whiskies that I’ve enjoyed recently that my fellow golfers might be interested in …

The Glendronach 12-year-old original

A rich and creamy scotch that’s the product of the sherry casks its aged it, is a decadent treat at a non-exorbitant price point.

Buy Now from go.skimresources.com

The Macallan 12 Year Double Cask Single Malt Scotch Whisky

A creamy, orangey, oaky scotch that’s a classic expression that’ll never steer you wrong.

Buy Now from go.skimresources.com

Johnnie Walker Blue Label Blended Scotch Whisky

This one is a real treat, but it’s a beautiful blend with just enough smoke to make it a beautifully well-rounded treat for the most special occasions.

Buy Now from go.skimresources.com

The Balvenie Caribbean Cask 14-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

The rum casks it’s aged in give it an added toffee sweetness that is a sweet treat after a hot round.

Buy Now from go.skimresources.com

Bruichladdich The Classic Laddie Single Malt Scotch Whisky

The bottle itself stands out nicely on the shelf, and the whiskey itself is creamy and wholly complex, given that it’s an unpeated whiskey.

Buy Now from go.skimresources.com

Monkey Shoulder Blended Scotch Whisky

The budget whiskey of choice for so many. It’s a barley-forward whiskey and makes for easy sipping at every occasion.

Buy Now from go.skimresources.com

Ardbeg 10-Year-Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Lots of campfire smoke combined with ocean water, it’s one of my favorite whiskeys ever and somehow tastes better after a rainy round.

Buy Now from go.skimresources.com

Ardbeg Wee Beastie Single Malt Scotch Whisky

For a whiskey that’s just 5 year’s old, it was genuinely delicious, boasting a one-two punch of smoke and citrus.

Buy Now from go.skimresources.com

Lagavulin 16 Year Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

You won’t find many better rounded whiskies than this, with dry smoke and sweet caramel in perfect harmony.

Buy Now from go.skimresources.com

Laphroaig 10 Year Single Malt Scotch Whisky

A briny, wetter-smoke option than some off the other peatier options at a more affordable price point.

Buy Now from go.skimresources.com

Dewar’s White Label Blended Scotch Whisky

An affordable whiskey that is a great base for a mixed drink or one to throw in a flask and enjoy on the couse.

Buy Now from go.skimresources.com

Buchanan’s 12 Year Scotch

A similarly affordable whiskey with a slightly smokey note to offset the orange sweetness.

Buy Now from go.skimresources.com

Dewar’s Double Double 21-Year-Old

The 21-year-old whisky was ranked #2 on Whiskey Advocate’s best whiskies of 2020 (Use code DewarsGOLF for an additional $5 off + free shipping)

Buy Now from go.skimresources.com

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The post 4 delicious Four Roses bourbons (and when golfers should drink them on the course) appeared first on Golf.

The post 4 delicious Four Roses bourbons (and when golfers should drink them on the course) appeared first on Golf.

Whereas Scotch, the phrase golfers most commonly associate with whiskey, is made in Scotland from fermented barley, bourbon is a made from a mash of predominantly corn — thought most bourbon has varying amounts of other grains, like wheat and rye. And while it can, technically be made anywhere, it’s most common in the United States.

When I fancy some bourbon — it always seems to hit the spot after a sunny, hot round — I’ll often reach for a Four Roses expression. I’ve been a longtime fan of the single barrel, but recently I’ve had the chance to try a few other of the company’s products. Here’s a quick rundown of all the ones I’ve tried, and when you should consider pouring a glass for yourself.

Four Roses Bourbon

The lowest ABV of the whiskies featured here at 40 percent, the classic Four Roses bourbon is crisp and light, it’s a good one to throw in a flask for your round, or to use as a base whiskey for a refreshing cocktail after you’re done.

Buy Now from go.skimresources.com

Four Roses Small Batch

At 90 proof, I prefer to enjoy this one neat or on the rocks. It’s a pretty classic bourbon — vanilla, cinnamon, caramel notes — and an easy when-in-doubt whiskey you’ll never get tired of reaching for.

Buy Now from go.skimresources.com

Four Roses Single Barrel

Four Roses single barrel whiskey is exactly that — it comes from a single barrel. It’s a high-rye bourbon, which means it’s sharp and spicy, which cuts perfectly over some ice or a dash of water. Discerning drinkers may spot subtle differences between each barrel, and even if that’s not you, it’s nice sipping on a dram knowing there’s a singular barrel out there where it came from.

Buy Now from go.skimresources.com

Four Roses Small Batch Select Bourbon

A delicious whiskey that I had the pleasure of trying for the first time recently. 104 proof comes through on the nose, and I get lots of vanilla and oak on the taste. At a higher price points than others featured here, it’s one to enjoy neat, after a memorable round with friends.

Buy Now from go.skimresources.com

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The post 12 whiskies to buy your golfer dad for Father’s Day appeared first on Golf.

The post 12 whiskies to buy your golfer dad for Father’s Day appeared first on Golf.

Whiskey, like golf, is not something I’m a professional at. But that’s ok. You probably aren’t either, and we can enjoy it all the same. Whiskey is a relatively new passion of mine, and I’m far short of being an expert, but here’s a few whiskies I’ve had the pleasure of drinking recently, each good enough, in their own way, to be worthy of a gift with Father’s Day just around the corner.

Dewar’s Double Double Aged Blended Scotch Whisky 21 Year

The oldest whiskey I’ve ever tasted doubles as the one ranked No. 2 best whiskey of 2019 by Whiskey Advocate. Spicy cinnamon notes are lathered with rich sherry flavors.

Buy Now from drizly.com

The Clover

This is, perhaps, the perfect whiskey for golfers. The bottle has a picture of Bobby Jones on the bottle, inspired by his tradition of drinking three fingers of whiskey after competition. The catch? You won’t find it in stores, so look for it in a nearby clubhouse and buy your dad a dram after your round together.

Buy Now from www.thecloverwhiskey.com

Westward American Single Malt Stout Cask

Whiskeys aged in stout barrels give them a rich, chocolatey flavor that I really enjoyed, especially in this American single malt hailing from Oregon.

Buy Now from www.caskers.com

Lagavulin 16 Year

A whiskey worthy of any occasion, and a fine gift that for any whiskey lover. Sweet and honeyed at first before the peat smoke begins to enter.

Buy Now from fave.co

Jack Daniel’s Gentleman Jack Tennessee Whiskey

This thoroughly enjoyable whiskey that makes for easy sipping, and won’t break the bank. Gentleman Jack is Jack Daniels that has undergone an extra round of charcoal filtering, which gives it added maple sweetness.

Buy Now from fave.co

Courage & Conviction American Single Malt Whisky

An American Single Malt made from 100% barley, finished in sherry casks, which gives it a rich butterscotch and vanilla flavor.

Buy Now from vadistillery.passionspirits.com

Johnnie Walker Blue Label

The Blue is one of those aspirational whiskeys that commands universal respect, and makes for a special gift. Gingery notes to begin with leading to a subtle smokey finish.

Buy Now from fave.co

Bulleit Bourbon Blenders’ Select No. 001

The Blenders’ Select features Bulleit’s signature spicy notes, but at a higher proof, combines more honey for some added sweetness.

Buy Now from fave.co

Monkey Shoulder Blended Scotch

One of the best value whiskeys around that anybody would be happy to receive. A barley-forward whiskey with orange cream notes.

Buy Now from fave.co

Angels Envy Rum Cask Rye

I had this for the first time recently and it was glorious. Like candy on the nose, with sweet and spicy notes on the palette.

Buy Now from fave.co

Ardbeg 10 Year Single Malt Scotch Whisky

If you’re looking for a smoke-forward whiskey with some depth, Ardbeg’s my favorite option.

Buy Now from fave.co

Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey

If you’re looking for something out of the box, this peanut butter whiskey is a sugar bomb. A fun option for the dad’s who like to play around with cocktails.

Buy Now from fave.co

Hochstadter’s Slow & Low Rock and Rye

A pre-mixed old fashioned cocktail that’s a little sweet, but fun to try over an ice cube.

Buy Now from fave.co

Editor’s Picks

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The post Andy Roddick dishes on Sweetens Cove, working with Peyton Manning and making bourbon appeared first on Golf.

The post Andy Roddick dishes on Sweetens Cove, working with Peyton Manning and making bourbon appeared first on Golf.

Andy Roddick requested a last-minute change to our Zoom meeting. He needed to get on his iPad, he said. “That’s where my Sweetens background is.”

Passion takes certain new forms these days. When tennis’ former world No. 1 popped up on my screen, sure enough, there was Sweetens Cove behind him, new pavilion and all. Roddick straightened his lid — a black “Sweetens Cove” rope hat — and flashed that characteristic smile.

“You guys must be hurting for content, if you’re having me on,” he cracked.

(Note: Even though this is mostly about Sweetens Cove, this is also loosely part of my colleague Luke Kerr-Dineen’s Whiskey Wednesdays column. We’ll get to the bourbon piece later, but you can buy Sweetens Cove’s bourbon here, beginning next week.)

My story ideas and his aw-shucks-iness aside, Andy Roddick is a big deal for the golf world. It’s a big deal that this generation’s top American tennis star joined forces with one of its top quarterbacks, Peyton Manning, to buy in on a nine-hole public golf course built for nothing on a Tennessee flood plain. It’s wild to think that two of the most iconic sports stars of the 2000s hop on work calls to talk about new tee boxes at Sweetens Cove. And it’s clear that both value the attention to detail that made Sweetens a cult phenomenon in the first place. After our interview, Roddick found out that I’d written previously about the place (something he’d have zero reason to know), so he followed up with an email.

“I feel s—– that I didn’t know your connection,” he wrote. “Thanks for the chat in spite of my ignorance.” I can’t remember getting an email like that. If he was looking to butter up the media to help sell some bourbon, well, it was a solid strategy.

By way of brief backstory: Last year, Roddick and Manning were part of a five-man group that came in to invest in Sweetens Cove, a rehabilitated nine-hole golf course just outside of Chattanooga. They saw the way the golf community had rallied around the course as a bold, fun vision for the game’s future and wanted in. One main goal, Roddick said, was not to screw it up. We talked about that idea, plus their new bourbon and more in a brief interview here:

DYLAN DETHIER: Andy, what’s the deal with Sweetens Cove? Could you explain to someone that may have never been there? Why do people like it? What’s so special about it?

ANDY RODDICK: My co-owner Mark Rivers likes to call it “Field of Dreams” meets “Tin Cup.” There’s just this amazing nine-hole course that Rob Collins built by hand. He would kind of rent the equipment during the day, go work on the course and then return it at night. So, it has this very natural feel to it. Before we got our ownership group together, it didn’t have a bathroom. So we’re getting fancy now. We have a bathroom! And you can actually see the little pavilion in my [Zoom] background that was built, and a little putting green. So we’ve made some improvements, but we were pretty sensitive. We didn’t want to come in as this group and ruin the feel of the place, you know, by overbuilding. And so we made some simple improvements. But it’s just pure golf. There’s no pomp and circumstance. We like to say yes more than we say no down there. So it’s been a really fun project to be a part of.

DETHIER: Do you have a favorite single shot out there or favorite hole that sticks out when you go play?

RODDICK: It’s pretty fun, like — the action between teeing off on 1, where we put a new back tee box, so you actually launch it right next to the putting green. And you kind of hit over No. 9 green.

And then the last one-shotter is a par-3, I’m not sure if you’ve been there yet, but there’s a par-3 on No. 9 where we built a little heckle-deck above it. So if you’re with a group of people, they’re watching you come in. And so there’s a lot of action that’s happening between the putting green, No. 1 tee and No. 9 green, and I always kind of like that area.

DETHIER: What is Peyton Manning like as a co-owner of a golf course?

RODDICK: He’s the quarterback. You know, we’ll do our Monday calls. ‘OK, so who’s going to be where? Whose job is it to do this? What are my responsibilities?’ You feel like he’s running a play when we have a business call. But I take a lot of pride in any business venture I’m in; I try to learn it. I don’t have an agent. I don’t have “people.” You kind of get into the mix a little bit.

I haven’t once — throughout this entire process with the course and then moving into the different businesses off of Sweetens — I haven’t seen one of Peyton’s “people.” I haven’t talked to anyone; he never kind of passed the buck off on anyone else. He’s always there and extremely present. And you know, we certainly feel lucky to have him in this project.

DETHIER: For you, is this a passion project? Is this a business opportunity? What’s kind of the vision for Sweetens from your perspective?

RODDICK: Uh, yes. To everything you said. Luckily, I don’t think I don’t think we have to choose. You know, when Mark Rivers and I kind of — we’d been looking at a bunch of different business opportunities for a while and I’ve gotta give him credit. He’s the least-golfy person out of our entire group. He’s working on it. But he said, ‘There’s some magic with this nine-holer in Tennessee. You have to take a look at it. We have to do something with it. I don’t know what it is yet, but we have to figure it out.’

And, you know, we go there and you see the traditions of the bourbon on the 1st tee and leaving a bottle for someone else. The next group behind you, and tradition, we’re going, ‘Well, that makes a lot of sense.’ And so I don’t know that there was ever an intention to be in the nine-hole public golf course business, but the place is just magic. We fell in love with it. And, you know, we certainly think there are opportunities past the golf course.

DETHIER: So tell me about the Sweetens Cove bourbon. Tell me everything I should know about it.

RODDICK: Well, it’s limited production. You know, we were — similar to not wanting to come in and change the culture of the golf course, we don’t want it to be some mass-produced, average quality celebrity brand that Peyton’s involved with. You know, that would kind of be low-hanging fruit. I actually think it’d be a bit of a lazy way to go about it. So we were able to go out and get a master blender, Marianne Eaves, who is just a rock star. And so I think one of the things that we all realized very early is we might be successful in other areas, but we need to leave the bourbon to Marianne.

And she just knocked it out of the park with the product and the quality, and the reviews that it’s getting from people that know a lot more about bourbon than I do is really encouraging. And it’s going to be exciting to see it grow. Our first batch is just over 14,000 bottles, only released in Tennessee at first; we thought that was important. And so it will kind of trickle into some different markets and see what the reception is. But we’re really excited about it.

DETHIER: What does it taste like? Do you have — how’s your bourbon palate? Do you use these good descriptors that experts have to talk about it?

RODDICK: [Laughing] I have all the notes and I read all the notes and I could — listen, I taste it and I can’t tell you that I fully understand, I’m not going to get melodramatic about it and I’m kind of learning as I go here. But it’s one of the first ones that I’ve been able to sip and actually, just with a cube and just drink straight. It’s just a beautiful taste. And like I said, the people that know a lot more about it than I do seem to be really excited about it. So I’m just happy because if we didn’t put out a quality product, it was just going to be some other brand run by Peyton with the involvement of y’know ‘Jim Nantz is an investor’ or ‘Whoever else is an investor.’ And so it was really important just for the quality to be the first talking point.

DETHIER: What is the connection between Sweetens and bourbon? I understand there’s a special tradition connecting the two.

RODDICK: It was really natural. You know, at the 1st tee, I don’t even know where it started, but by the time we got [to Sweetens], you’d see that a lot of groups took a shot of bourbon on the first tee. And a lot of times they’d have a bottle and they would just leave the bottle. And so the group that came out to them, it was like a gift, kind of passing it back. And it kind of speaks to the culture of Sweetens a little bit. And everyone was respectful. No one’s cruising around, falling over. But it was just a great, great tradition. And so we thought there was an opportunity to build off the tradition that was made by people who loved the golf course.

DETHIER: I love it. All right, I want to get a couple tennis-golf comparisons really quick. First, I want you to tell me which major translates to which. All right. Starting with tennis. Give me the golf equivalent.

RODDICK: So the easiest parallel, I think is between Wimbledon and the Masters. The traditions, the fact that you don’t see advertising around either venue. The players come and go, but those seem to be bigger than any given player that’s playing currently. Past that the U.S. Opens are probably about right. The PGA is run through … [trails off] the easiest one, because it’s played at the same venue year after year is Wimbledon and the Masters.

DETHIER: Fair enough. We’ll stick to those two. And then tell me, who is Andy Roddick’s golf equivalent? Who is the Andy Roddick of golf?

RODDICK: Gosh, I’m trying to think of some guys that maybe came in second more than they came in first [laughing]. Actually, two guys come to mind that have each won one major. One of them’s been No. 1 and one of them has won a lot of Tour titles. And so that’s kind of a parallel of my career. [Dustin Johnson], obviously, he’ll win more, I think, so I won’t be able to cling to that comparison very long. But Sergio Garcia spends a lot of time in Austin and we play sometimes, and there was a moment after he won the Masters where almost every, like, total wins around the globe, we’re at like 30-something. You know, he plays great in Ryder Cup. I played well in Davis Cup. So we were walking through it one day. It was like — it’s almost the same, as far as like they stack up. Now past that, I’m not sure, but the way that the numbers stack up for sure.

DETHIER: I like it. I can see that D.J. comparison, a couple of big power hitters. I feel like you’re more talkative than he is, though.

RODDICK: I don’t know about that, but that’s a comparison I’d welcome. He’s a lot of fun to watch.

DETHIER: If you had to convince anyone to come down to Sweetens Cove, what would be your 20-second elevator pitch to them?

RODDICK: I mean, listen, you don’t have to come unless you like really fun golf in its purest form. If you don’t like that, then there’s no need to make the trip.

You can learn more about Sweetens Cove Spirits here. A limited run of the bourbon will be available May 26 for Tennessee residents.

The post Andy Roddick dishes on Sweetens Cove, working with Peyton Manning and making bourbon appeared first on Golf.

The post Whisky Wednesday: Dewar’s whisky is running a special specifically for golfers appeared first on Golf.

The post Whisky Wednesday: Dewar’s whisky is running a special specifically for golfers appeared first on Golf.

With restrictions on golf courses slowly being lifted around the country, and players finally able to hit the course once again, it seems the light at the end of the tunnel is growing closer.

And now, thanks to Dewar’s, golfers have another reason to be cheerful.

Here at Whisky Wednesdays at GOLF.com, we love bringing you (semi) regular updates between the intersection of golf and whisky. And this week, we bring you news of a great deal on Dewar’s whisky: Using the code “DewarsGolf” at ReserveBar.com, GOLF readers can get $5 off plus free shipping. Now, you’ll have something to put in your flask whenever you make it back to the course.

It’s a great deal on lots of delicious whiskies, so lets run through some of the options.

DEWAR’S WHITE LABEL

One of the most popular whiskies on the planet that can be enjoyed neat or as a mixing whisky. (Use code DewarsGOLF for an additional $5 off + free shipping)

Buy Now from fave.co

DEWAR’S 8 YEAR OLD CARIBBEAN RUM CASK FINISH

The whisky is aged in rum casks to impart an added sweetness that blends brilliantly with mixed drinks (Use code DewarsGOLF for an additional $5 off + free shipping)

Buy Now from fave.co

DEWAR’S 12 YEAR OLD

Dewar’s 12 year-old expression has strong malty flavors combining with notes of honey (Use code DewarsGOLF for an additional $5 off + free shipping)

Buy Now from fave.co

DEWAR’S 15 YEAR OLD

A higher price point for those wanting a longer aged whisky, with creamy notes of toffee, vanilla and coconut (Use code DewarsGOLF for an additional $5 off + free shipping)

Buy Now from fave.co

DEWAR’S DOUBLE DOUBLE 21 YEAR OLD

The 21 year-old whisky was ranked #2 on Whiskey Advocate’s best whiskies of 2020 (Use code DewarsGOLF for an additional $5 off + free shipping)

Buy Now from fave.co

DEWAR’S 18 YEAR OLD

If you’re ready to splurge, try this 18 year-old which is a blend of five single malt whiskies (Use code DewarsGOLF for an additional $5 off + free shipping)

Buy Now from fave.co

The post Whisky Wednesday: Dewar’s whisky is running a special specifically for golfers appeared first on Golf.

The post These three modern flasks are perfect for the golf course appeared first on Golf.

The post These three modern flasks are perfect for the golf course appeared first on Golf.

Flasks have been around since the Stone Age (literally), but it wasn’t until fairly recently in the history of humankind that they became practical vessels for holding concealed libations. It was the 1920s, during the peak of Prohibition, when men and women tucked flasks into their pockets, handbags and briefcases to smuggle booze and sneak a drink here and there.

They’re especially handy for the golfer on the go — perfect for a quick nip to chill first-tee jitters or to ease the pain of a six-hour round. And no, they aren’t just for booze. But then again, why would you use one for anything else?

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Among our favorite models are custom-made flasks from popular beltmaker Doc Murphy (front; $50; docmurphyusa.com), which mixes fabric patterns with leather accents and choose-your-own artwork.

Next is the Tempercraft flask (middle; $30; tempercraft.com) made of double-walled, vacuum-insulated stainless steel (with optional custom engraving) that features isothermic technology to keep your drink hot for six hours or cold for an entire day.

Third, the elegant stainless flask with leather wrap from Winston Collection (rear; $50; winstoncollection.com) is available in a smattering of colors with near endless custom debossing and embroidery options to choose from. These are flasks you can carry with pride.

The post These three modern flasks are perfect for the golf course appeared first on Golf.