About The Pourch
Stories, Sips, and America’s Whiskey
The Pourch is where bourbon drinkers come to discover what’s worth pouring—especially the bottles that don’t make headlines.
I’m Tom. A few years ago, I couldn’t tell you the difference between wheated bourbon and high-rye mash bills. I’d hear collectors obsess over allocated bottles and wonder if it was all just noise. Then I poured a glass of Woodford Reserve one night, and something clicked. It was approachable, layered, and nothing like the whiskey I’d written off before. That single pour changed everything.
Not long after, I won a whiskey tasting experience at a school fundraiser—an evening with a Level 4 Whiskey Sommelier who walked me through how to taste with intention. I learned to pick apart flavor profiles, understand what I was drawn to, and recognize the craft behind the glass. A trip to Buffalo Trace deepened that curiosity, and eventually I earned my Executive Bourbon Steward certification. These days, I train my palate regularly and approach every bottle like there’s something new to learn.
What You’ll Find Here
The Pourch focuses on honest bourbon reviews, small-batch distilleries, and American whiskey that deserves more attention. I’m drawn to craft producers—the ones making exceptional whiskey without the impossible hunt or the inflated price tag. But the established names show up too. Sometimes the most interesting conversations happen when you compare what legacy distilleries are doing against what the independents are putting out.
On the site, you’ll find:
- Bourbon and rye reviews that cut through the hype
- Pour Tour stories from distilleries, tasting rooms, and whiskey bars
- Tasting notes and reflections on what makes a bottle worth remembering
Media & Appearances
In January 2026, I spoke with Good Day Sacramento about what led me to start The Pourch and how I first got interested in bourbon. The conversation covered my early experiences with whiskey and the path that turned curiosity into something I wanted to share with others. You can watch the full interview on the Media page.
Who This Is For
The Pourch is for anyone who wants to explore beyond the usual shelf. Maybe you’re new to bourbon and looking for a place to start. Maybe you’re a seasoned drinker hunting for your next favorite bottle. Maybe you just like hearing stories about whiskey and the people who make it. Whoever you are, there’s a seat waiting.
Contribute to The Pourch
The best conversations happen when more voices join in. If you’re a distiller, a brand rep, or someone with a whiskey story worth telling, I’d like to hear from you. The Pourch is open to guest contributors, distillery collaborations, and reader stories that add to the conversation around American whiskey.
Get in touch at [email protected].