Episode 15 – “Trust the Government? Bottled in Bond at The Standard”

Episode 15 – “Trust the Government? Bottled in Bond at The Standard”

Jason and Bradford are back, kicking off Season 2 of Two Guys On A Porch.  This episode is shot in the library of The Standard in Nashville where the Battle of Nashville was planned with a lineup of Bottled in Bond whiskeys and a cigar worthy of the occasion.

The Standard at the Smith House is one of Nashville’s most historic private clubs, housed in a grand 1840s townhouse—the last remaining antebellum mansion in downtown Nashville. Originally a private residence, the building has served various roles over the years before becoming an exclusive club known for its fine dining, cigars, and whiskey selection

In this episode, they sip and cogitate through Henry McKenna 10 Year, Benchmark Bonded, Jack Daniel’s Bonded, and Old Fitzgerald 10 Year, exploring the history behind the Bottled in Bond Act of 1897—America’s first consumer protection law. This legislation ensured whiskey met strict quality standards, long before the FDA existed. But in today’s world, can we still trust the government when it comes to oversight and regulation? 

Which spirit is their favorite for flavor? and value?  It’s a pretty tight group on flavors but not price - $18 to $1000 per bottle!

Alongside the whiskey, the guys fire up the Diamond Crown Maximus, a full-bodied Dominican cigar crafted by J.C. Newman in partnership with Fuente. Unlike traditional Fuente cigars, which lean medium-bodied, this blend delivers a richer, bolder experience. They break down cigar construction—the filler, binder, and wrapper, noting that the wrapper alone contributes 30% to 70% of a cigar’s flavor. Just like bourbon, the balance of ingredients matters. A great cigar, like a great whiskey, is all about harmony.

With premium bond in their glasses and top-tier cigars in hand, the conversation turns from whiskey history to government trust, transparency, civil war battles and whether the laws meant to protect us still hold up today. Also find out which on of the buys is a Colonel and how that came about.

So, pour a dram, light up, and settle in—this is one you won’t want to miss. #BottledInBond #DiamondCrownMaximus #TrustButVerify #2GuysOnAPorch #TheStandard

Special thanks to Josh and Laura for another great experience at The Standard.