386: Bourbon Lens Explores the Science of Rye Terroir with Far North Spirits Co-Founder Michael Swanson

LOUISVILLE, KY — The Bourbon Lens podcast has released its latest episode, taking listeners on a deep-dive journey to Minnesota’s Red River Valley to explore how agricultural choices, crop genetics, and soil health directly influence whiskey flavor profiles. Co-hosts sit down with Michael Swanson, co-founder of Far North Spirits, to unpack the craftsmanship and groundbreaking scientific research defining modern, farm-distilled heritage spirits.

Far North Spirits, a field-to-glass single varietal rye whiskey producer, is leading the movement to embrace true whiskey terroir. In this episode, Swanson shares his journey from farm kid to pioneering distiller, outlining his meticulous research on rye varietals like AC Hazlet and proving that unique grain genetics leave distinct flavor notes that survive distillation even before a spirit enters the barrel.

“What we’ve done for rye whiskey is what vintners once did for wine — proved that varietal matters,” says Swanson. “The seed is the key to a whiskey’s soul.”

Listeners will gain an understanding of how sustainable practices like crop rotation and pollinator habitats impact flavor quality, the nuances of ultra-aging in Minnesota’s volatile northern climate, and how Far North Spirits expands their craft into single-estate gin and Demerara-style rum.

The full episode, complete with a comprehensive breakdown of place-based whiskey innovation and specific rye tasting notes, is available now on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.

https://youtu.be/q5HVtFtbvw0

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