Season 3 | Episode 7 - In the Spirit of Bourbon: Old Carter Whiskey
Featured Guests: Mark Carter & Rob Beatty
Close Your Eyes and Imagine: A Journey Into Kentucky’s Bourbon Culture!
It feels unbelievable to say this, but... the final episode is here!
In the Season 3 finale, Jason and Yvonne Lee bring you an intimate and spirited conversation with Mark Carter, the founder of Old Carter Whiskey.
Our dialogue took place in a tasting room that seems to reflect Mark Carter himself — practical and ambitious all at once. The walls are lined with neatly arranged wooden lockers, each filled with bottles bearing the "Old Carter" label. It’s like a library, deliciously cataloging years of experiments and hard work.
Mark’s entry into the world of bourbon was far from straightforward. He began in California as a winemaker, owning a hotel and restaurant. He recalls his early days in the industry, driven by a desire to craft the finest wine list. However, his passion for creating something truly unique led him to Kentucky — a place where bourbon traditions are alive in every drop. “When we started, people said we were just Californians trying to conquer Kentucky,” Mark says with a laugh. “But I always responded, ‘My family is from Somerset, so this is home.’” This connection to his roots is even reflected on his bourbon labels, which proudly state: “Born from the soul of Somerset.”
One of the standout techniques he employs is double-barreling, which came into more mainstream popularity in 2012. This method involves placing already-aged bourbon into new oak barrels, enhancing the depth and richness of flavor. Mark pays meticulous attention to his choice of barrels, working with various American oak cooperages to craft distinct flavor profiles. He emphasizes the critical role barrels play in shaping the texture and finish of the bourbon. Beyond that, he carefully considers storage conditions, understanding how the climate in states like Kentucky, Tennessee, and Indiana significantly influences the final product.
The waiting list for Old Carter Bourbon has become a legend in itself, with demand far exceeding supply. Mark often jokes about the challenge of securing a bottle, but for those lucky enough to taste it, the wait is worth it. Each sip tells a story of craftsmanship, tradition, and innovation, making Old Carter Bourbon a true treasure in the world of spirits.
Mark’s philosophy goes beyond production. He strongly believes in giving back to the community and actively supports local artisans and entrepreneurs. By collaborating with those who share his passion, Mark strives not only to create exceptional products but also to strengthen the bonds within his community.
For more spirited discussions, make sure to subscribe to the podcast.
And if you’ve enjoyed exploring bourbon and cocktailing along with us, we’d love for you to leave us a review.
Cheers … and Please Drink Responsibly!
Links
Guests
Mark Carter - https://www.instagram.com/markcarter52/
Old Carter Whiskey - https://www.oldcarterwhiskeyco.com/
Rob Beatty - https://robbeattybrands.com/
KBBG - https://kentuckyblackbourbonguild.com/
Additional links + Special thanks to:
Flask Fine Wine & Whisky in Studio City - https://flaskfinewines.com/
WEP - https://weeditpodcasts.com/
Liam E. Allen (original music) - @Liamea97
“And as long as you're thinking, you're not just drinking.”
-Mark (minute 55:09)
Cocktail Recipe: Old Carter Straight Bourbon Whiskey — NEAT!
Friends! Thanks to Flask Fine Wine & Whisky in Studio City, California, we were able to obtain an extraordinary bottle of Old Carter. In the true spirit of not messin’ with quality, we're going to keep it neat. - Cheers, Jason
About our special guests
Mark Carter & Rob Beatty
Mark Carter, Co-Founder of Old Carter Whiskey
Mark Carter’s distinguished career epitomizes the entrepreneurial spirit and relentless drive that has defined his success across wine, whiskey, and hospitality. He built his first house at 18, which eventually became an inn, marking his entry into hospitality. By 1986, Mark opened a hotel, followed by a restaurant in 1987, where he served as chef and sommelier. His wine collection grew to 4,000 labels, earning him the 1998 Grand Award from Wine Spectator. Mark produced 24 wines with perfect 100-point scores and acquired a Napa Valley winery in 2006. In 2014, Mark helped resurrect the Kentucky Owl Bourbon brand, which was later acquired by Stoli Group. In 2017, Mark founded Old Carter Whiskey Co., known for its high-quality small-batch whiskies. In 2023, he opened a blending and bottling facility, offering accessible consulting services to smaller brands, further cementing his legacy and leadership in the industry.
Rob Beatty, Founder of the Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild
Rob Beatty’s relentless drive to uplift communities, uncover hidden histories, and create pathways for success defines his life and work. As a serial entrepreneur, thought leader in the bourbon industry, and founder of the Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild (KBBG), he has reimagined what inclusivity looks like in Kentucky’s bourbon industry and beyond. His contributions extend to professional development, mentorship, and cultural preservation, empowering individuals to dream bigger and achieve more.
Rob was featured in a special LIVE episode of Season 3. Tune in to hear more about Rob, his journey to make bourbon more inclusive, and his role in the making of Lagralane Spirits.
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