The Whiskey Trip - Season 4, Episode 26 - Allisa Henley, Master Distiller - AJ Bond Distillery

This week on The Whiskey Trip, Big Chief welcomes Allisa Henley, Master Distiller at AJ Bond Distillery, for a conversation rooted in Tennessee whiskey tradition, craftsmanship, and the people who helped shape one of America's great whiskey legacies.

 

Throughout the episode, they sip on AJ Bond's New Tennessee Whiskey, bottled at 95 proof. The whiskey opens with inviting aromas of caramel, vanilla, toasted oak, and warm baking spices. On the palate, Big Chief picked up distinctive notes of fresh kettle corn, roasted peanuts, and rich dark caramel, creating a sweet-and-savory combination that keeps you coming back for another sip. The finish is smooth and lingering, carrying gentle oak, vanilla, and a touch of spice.

 

The conversation explores the rich history of the Lincoln County Process, discussing how this defining charcoal mellowing step has influenced Tennessee whiskey for generations and helped create the signature character that Tennessee whiskey is known for.

 

Allisa also reflects on her years at George Dickel, sharing stories about working alongside her friend and mentor, John Lunn. She offers an inside look at her journey through the whiskey industry, the lessons she learned along the way, and what excites her most about building the future at AJ Bond Distillery.

 

Whether you're a longtime fan of Tennessee whiskey or just beginning your journey, this episode is filled with history, craftsmanship, great conversation, and memorable pours.

 

If you're enjoying the journey, we'd love to have you join our growing Taking the Whiskey Ride Facebook group. It's a place where whiskey lovers from across the country share pours, stories, distillery visits, and conversations that continue long after each episode ends. Come be part of the community, meet fellow riders, and keep the conversation rolling.

 

Take the Ride. Cheers!