Episode 69 Whiskey Expert, Nate Gana

May 3

Ep. 69: Everything you need to know about Whisk(e)y with special guest, Nate Gana

Welcome to Season 5 episode 69 of The Art of Drinking with Join Jules and Your Favorite Uncle

We caught up with Nate Gana, a charismatic spirits influencer who welcomed us into the world of fine spirits with a masterclass in whiskey appreciation. Through engaging storytelling, Nate unveils the nuances and complexities of various whiskeys, imparting his wisdom on discerning their unique flavors and aromas. As we savor a bottle of Courage & Conviction American Single Malt Whiskey finished in Sherry Cask by Virginia Distillery Company alongside Nate, we are treated to an immersive sensory experience that deeps our understanding of this revered spirit.

With his expert guidance, we not only learn to appreciate the subtleties of whiskey but also gain the confidence to host our very own whiskey-tasting party. Nate’s infectious passion and wealth of knowledge leave us inspired and eager to share our newfound expertise with friends, creating an unforgettable whiskey-tasting experience for all. Join us as Nate Gana takes us on a captivating journey.

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Meet Nate Gana

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Since 2015, Nate has been at the forefront of the premium spirits world. An “original influencer,” one of the aspects of Nate’s business that truly showcases his skills is his ability to connect people from all different aspects of the industry.

Nate Gana began in luxury retail sales and digital marketing, then later moved into finance. He first realized the investment potential of high-end premium whisky when he sold a bottle of $100 Macallan for $1,200, followed by a $300 Glenfiddich for $5,000. Nate became an investor and soon started making a name for himself traveling the world tasting and collecting rare and fine whiskies. In 2015, he founded the @SingleMaltDaily blog on Instagram (now @NateGana) for like-minded spirits fans. Nate’s work has been featured in Forbes, CNET, Thrillist, UPROXX, USA Today, and Whisky Magazine, among others.

Takeaways from today’s episode:

Whiskey can be a valuable investment, with certain bottles increasing in value over time.
Japanese whiskey has gained popularity and is highly sought after by collectors.
There are different types of whiskey, including bourbon, Scotch, and Irish whiskey.
The aging process and the type of cask used can greatly impact the flavor and value of whiskey.
For beginners, it is recommended to start with reputable brands and explore different styles and flavors. Different price points indicate different quality levels in bourbons and American whiskeys.
Bourbons finished in different casks, such as rum and sherry casks, offer unique flavors and complexity.
The quality of American whiskey is currently at an all-time high.
Local distilleries face challenges due to the time required for bourbon maturation.
Contract distilling is a growing trend in the industry.
Properly tasting whiskey involves opening it up with a few drops of warm water and keeping it in the mouth to coat the palate.
American single malt whiskey is a rising category with diverse flavor profiles.
Hosting a spirits-tasting dinner party can be a fun and educational experience.
The choice of glassware can significantly impact the tasting experience. Glassware can greatly enhance the whiskey-tasting experience, and companies like Denver and Liley are creating specialized glassware for different types of whiskey.
Whiskey is becoming a popular collectible due to its high quality and long shelf life, making it a more reliable investment compared to wine.
Using higher-end whiskey in cocktails can elevate the flavors and complexity of the drink.