HH 082: Under The "L" In Evanston (Paul Hletko/Few Spirits)

Joining me this week is Paul Hletko, founder and distiller of Few Spirits in Evanston, immediately north of Chicago. Hletko’s imaginative approach to bourbon, whiskey and gin have garnered many accolades since Few’s inception in 2011 including Whiskey Advocate Craft Whiskey of the Year and Icons of Gin World Distiller of the Year. We discuss his approach to ingredient selection and the construction of his brown spirits including mash bill, barrel sourcing, yeast strains, and adjuncts. The significance of the distillery's location in relation to the temperance movement receive attention, and we expound upon the correlations between songwriting and creating flavor. While Paul is mission and vision driven he is an ally of small distillers in the industry, having served as president of the American Craft Spirits Association and on the advisory board of DISCUS (Distilled Spirits Council of the United States). I take the opportunity to ask about relevant topics in the industry including consolidation among larger distillers and distributors, and direct to consumer sales. Find Paul Hletko: Few Spirits Find Heavy Hops: Website (Listen to all episodes and access detailed show notes!) Facebook Instagram Twitter Support The Show By Donating Episode Art and HH Logo By: Bryn Gleason Audio editing, mix and mastering: Esben Willems/Studio Berserk Music by: Sam Cangelosi Please Subscribe to our podcast via your preferred listening platform. Rate and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts to help others find us! Support The Show By Donating. Give the gift of HH by sharing our episodes on social media! Small actions such as these go a long way in helping others find us!