Whisky & Smoke News Network
Join host Chris Kumnick on Whisky & Smoke News Network Episode 18 (April 12, 2026) for your weekly deep dive into the worlds of whisky, cigars, pipes, and pipe tobacco. In this packed episode, we deliver the latest whisky news including MGP Ingredients temporarily idling two Kentucky distilleries amid the American whiskey oversupply, Sazerac naming its new AJ Bond Distillery and entering Tennessee whiskey, potential major industry mergers, the Fifth Circuit striking down the federal home distillation ban, the grand opening of Laggan Bay Distillery on Islay, plus exciting new releases from Buffalo Trace, Cotswolds, and more. Cigar enthusiasts get full coverage of 30+ new 2026 releases debuting at the PCA Convention in New Orleans, including Oliva Serie V Melanio World Cup and Edición Año 2026 editions, limited anniversary cigars, and fresh lines from PDR, My Father, and Altadis. We also preview upcoming events like the Premium Cigar Association Trade Show, Texas Whiskey Festival, Spirit of Speyside, and Chicago International Pipe Show. The highlight is an exclusive in-person 'Pop the Cork' interview with whisky legend Billy Walker of The GlenAllachie Distillery in Speyside, Scotland—discussing his career, a distillery tour, blending philosophy, and more. Chris reviews a rare 19-year Deanston Armagnac cask strength single malt (55.7% ABV) and the Punch Chinese New Year 2026 Egg Roll XL cigar. Grab your favorite dram, cigar, or pipe, sit back, and enjoy an entertaining, sometimes cheeky, always informative hour of premium spirits and smoke content. Subscribe for weekly whisky news, cigar releases, and industry interviews! Social Media LinksWhisky & Smoke News NetworkInstagram - / whiskynsmokenn Facebook - / whiskynsmoke Please subscribe, ring the bell, like, and comment below!!
26 episodes
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