Name: John Rempe
Company: Lux Row Distillers
Job: Head Distiller & Master Blender
Website: luxrowdistillers.com

How long have you been working in the whisky industry?
I’ve now been working in the industry, and for Luxco, for 19 years. I’m responsible for all new product development across the company’s brands, which include Rebel Yell, Ezra Brooks, and Blood Oath.

What has been your biggest career highlight to date?
Launching my signature Blood Oath ultra-premium bourbon series. Being able to use my creativity to combine great bourbons and actually put my name on the bottle is something really special to me.

Can you remember your first dram, and indeed what it was?
I would be lying if I said I could—it was far too long ago! But I do remember when I first started in this business and took my first sample of bourbon straight from a barrel. It was an unforgettable experience.

What does whisky mean to you?
To me, whisky—particularly bourbon—represents history. Looking back on all the history associated with bourbon in this country, from its roots to the great master distillers, it’s a huge honour to be able to be part of that legacy.

Where would you like to see yourself in five years’ time?
To be completely honest, I want to see myself doing exactly what I am doing today. I’ve got the best job in the world! Why would I want to change that? I hope to continue creating great bourbons for a long, long time.

What was your last dram?
My last dram was a Rebel Yell 10-Year-Old Single Barrel.

Do you have a favourite whisky and food pairing combination?
For a robust, full-flavoured, well-aged bourbon, nothing goes better than a perfectly cooked, medium-rare ribeye steak. For dessert, I would encourage anyone to try a nice dark chocolate with that same well-aged bourbon—they are made for each other.

What’s your favourite time and place to enjoy a dram?
After work, on the back patio, enjoying the evening air with a great pour.

What do you think is going to be the next big thing on the whisky horizon?
When I look at the whisky horizon, I see continued growth in the bourbon category in the foreseeable future. It’s a great time to be making bourbon.

What’s the one dram you couldn’t live without?
I would have to say Blood Oath Pact 3. The way the three bourbons come together on this one, coupled with the cabernet finish, makes it truly exceptional.

Many thanks to John Rempe. Who will be our next Whisky Insider? Click back soon to find out!