West Fork Whiskey: Bold Spirits from the Heartland

Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon hunter or a curious newcomer, this episode brings you a unique perspective on what it means to distill heritage, community, and creativity into every bottle.

A Curveball from the Start: Reverse Proof Tasting

Breaking from tradition, this episode flips the script on the typical tasting format. At Julian’s suggestion, Jim and Todd begin the tasting with the highest-proof pour of the night—a bold move that sparks immediate curiosity.

The trio kicks off with Old Hammer Cask Strength Bourbon, a robust expression made with a mash bill of 99% corn and 1% malted barley. Distilled and aged entirely in Indiana, this bourbon clocks in at barrel proof and hits the palate with authority. It’s unfiltered, unapologetic, and deeply flavorful—setting the tone for an adventurous conversation ahead.

Julian explains that going in reverse proof order allows the palate to adjust differently, drawing out subtleties in lower-proof expressions that might otherwise be overshadowed if tasted traditionally. This approach reflects West Fork’s broader philosophy: challenge convention when it makes sense, and never be afraid to try something new.

West Fork Whiskey: Indiana’s Spirit Reimagined

As the pours continue, Julian shares the story behind West Fork Whiskey. Founded with the goal of crafting authentic Indiana whiskey from grain to glass, the distillery focuses on using local ingredients—especially Indiana-grown corn—to highlight regional character in each bottle.

Julian and his team see West Fork as more than just a whiskey company; it’s a tribute to Indiana’s heritage and resilience. Their process emphasizes transparency, craftsmanship, and a sense of place. The whiskey isn’t sourced from somewhere else—it’s born and bred in the Midwest, matured by its seasons, and bottled with pride.

From developing unique mash bills to tailoring their barrel-aging environments, West Fork has dialed into what makes their spirits distinctly Hoosier. The goal? To prove that Indiana whiskey belongs on the same shelf as the biggest names in Kentucky and Tennessee.

Tasting the Lineup: Stories in a Glass

Throughout the episode, Jim and Todd sample three of West Fork’s flagship expressions. Each pour reveals something different—not just about the whiskey itself, but about the ethos behind the brand.

• Old Hamer Cask Strength: Bold and brash, this one leads with caramel, spice, and oak. A true powerhouse that rewards slow sipping.

• Hugh Hamer Rum Finished: A more accessible, rum finished expression that holds its own with nutty sweetness and a smooth finish.

• Old Hamer 10 Year: A newer release with an experimental edge, showcasing West Fork’s ability to balance traditional bourbon notes with nuanced modern twists.

As they taste, the conversation turns personal. Julian speaks candidly about building a distillery from scratch, navigating a crowded whiskey market, and staying true to your vision when others say it can’t be done. His passion is evident, and it’s clear that West Fork isn’t just a job for him—it’s a mission.

Looking Ahead: Growth Without Compromise

West Fork Whiskey is rapidly expanding, recently moving into a larger facility and increasing distribution. But Julian assures listeners that growth won’t come at the cost of quality or community.

One highlight of the new location is a state-of-the-art visitor center, which aims to bring people into the fold—not just as customers, but as participants in Indiana’s growing whiskey movement. Julian emphasizes that education and transparency are at the core of the experience they’re trying to build.

For those who may have overlooked Indiana as a whiskey-producing state, this episode serves as a wake-up call. With distillers like West Fork leading the charge, it’s time to redraw the bourbon map.

Final Thoughts: Indiana Rising

As the glasses empty and the episode wraps, Jim and Todd reflect on the experience. West Fork isn’t just another upstart—it’s a serious contender that’s rewriting the rules of what Midwest whiskey can be.

This episode reminds us that great bourbon isn’t confined to one state or one tradition. It’s about the people, the grain, the barrel—and the passion behind it all. Julian Jones and West Fork Whiskey are living proof that when you bet on authenticity and take bold swings, the result can be something truly memorable.