Podcasts by How To Be A Better Drinker

How To Be A Better Drinker

Matt James & Justin Freet talking all things Booze related from the perspective of a Bartender.

Further podcasts by The lush life has it's twists and turns, let Matt James and Justin Freet show you How To Be A Better Drinker. It's cocktail culture from the inside.

Podcast on the topic Philosophie

All episodes

How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 235 - A Tribute to Norm MacDonald with Super Fan Riley! from 2021-10-12T17:08:14

The boys are knocking back beverages with Riley aka the Norm MacDonald Super Fan, and discussing Norm's legacy, the I'm Not Norm Youtube channel, and the upcoming celebration of Norm at Gasworks Pa...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 234 - Maker's Mark Private Select from 2021-09-16T22:01:15

The fellas are sipping Maker's Mark Private Select, and sampling a selection of Arizona beers, courtesy of last week's guest!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 233 Dogfish Head Gin! from 2021-09-07T07:01:06

Matt & Justin are joined by Social Distance Drinking Club's Yousef Hawash to contemplate Dogfish Head's gin, the remains of last week's Jeppson's Bourbon, talk mid-week weddings and to bestow an am...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 231 - Jeppson's Bourbon from 2021-08-09T20:42:30

Did you know Jeppson's, makers of the infamous Malort, also made bourbon? Neither did we, until Matt James pulled one out of his bag. It's an interesting little tipple from an unexpected source. Bo...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 232 - Jeppson's Bourbon from 2021-08-09T20:42:30

Did you know Jeppson's, makers of the infamous Malort, also made bourbon? Neither did we, until Matt James pulled one out of his bag. It's an interesting little tipple from an unexpected source. Bo...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD Ep. 231 - Return Of The Spritzes from 2021-08-09T19:53:05

The boys are drinking spritzes, giving each other positive affirmations, and wondering why their producer is obsessed with Funco.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 231 - Return Of The Spritzes from 2021-08-09T19:53:05

The boys are drinking spritzes, giving each other positive affirmations, and wondering why their producer is obsessed with Funco.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 230 - Fast Penny Spirits' Adam Fream from 2021-07-16T04:04:18

The guys are joined by Seattle distillery Fast Penny Spirits rep Adam Fream to talk expressions, tipples, the biz of being a startup and more!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 229 - Absinthe Redux from 2021-07-16T03:53:59

The boys are revisiting an old friend, the oft-misunderstood and oft-maligned absinthe. No ears were lost in the making of this episode.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 228 - The Liquor Biz with Andy McClellan from 2021-07-16T03:46:24

The boys are tipping back some tasty adult beverages with one of the Seattle bar industry's stalwarts, Andy McClellan, a man who has worked behind the bar, behind the scenes and a few other places....

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 227 - Roquette's Eric Hakkinen from 2021-07-16T03:37:08

The fellas are tipping back a few with the owner of one of America's best bars (according to GQ), Erik Hakkinen of Seattle's Roquette!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 226 - A Revue Of New Gins from 2021-07-16T03:32:38

With Justin on a secret mission to bring back the head of Jared Leto, Matt and Producer Keith review some new gins.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 225 - Peanut Butter Whiskey from 2021-07-09T07:23:17

We’ve decided to suffer so you don’t have to: the boys are sampling Peanut Butter Whiskey. Thank us later.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 224 - Maker's Mark 101 from 2021-07-09T06:52:35

As the world starts to open up, the fellas are starting to venture back out into the world, and what better way to get back in the groove than the surprisingly tasty and respectable Maker’s Mark 101.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 223 - Freeland Gin! from 2021-07-09T06:15:21

The fellas are sitting down with a bottle of gin from one of the few women-led distilleries in the region. Freeland Gin tastes like feminism, delicious, delicious feminism. We’re kidding. It tastes...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 222 - Don Q Rum & The Willows Inn Article from 2021-05-03T09:53:37

The fellas are sipping on nostalgic bottle this week, Don Q rum which it turns out is the family well rum from Justin's childhood. Along with the Puerto Rican spirit, the boys are joined by their p...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 221 - Pivots & Pandemics w. Maxwell Bennett Of Rocco's from 2021-04-27T06:48:57

Matt sits down with Maxwell Bennett, the bar manager of Rocco's Pizza, one of Seattle's favorite upscale drinks & slices spots. He breaks down what they've been doing to survive the pandemic, takeo...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 220 - Moonshine 101 W. Brad Feather from 2021-04-13T19:34:15

The fellas aren't sipping moonshine, but they have certified smart person and moonshine expert Brad Feather on the podcast to give everyone Moonshine 101!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 219 - Fermented Seaweed Fortified Wine from 2021-04-02T07:54:30

The boys are sipping fermented seaweed fortified wine. Say that three times fast...jump in, it's a weird one.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 218 - Argentinian Malbec from 2021-03-30T07:00:10

The boys are sipping on Argentinian Malbec, talking space wine, Aliens vs. Jeff Bezos, Drizzly's $1 billion acquisition, and an all-time favorite celebrity drinking story.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 217 - Drinking With The Devil! from 2021-03-23T07:00:19

This episode guaranteed to bring back bad memories and maybe help you create some new ones! The boys are sipping through a variety of beverages that one might turn to in their lowest moments!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 216 - Georgetown Brewing's Reid Spencer! from 2021-03-16T07:00:08

The fellas welcome brewer Reid Spencer of Georgetown Brewing to the show to talk how they navigated the Pandemic, how the Keanu Reeves classic Point Break has influenced the brand and GB evolved ou...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 215 - A Survey Of Sour Beer from 2021-03-09T23:49:46

The fellas are taking a whirlwind survey of the sour beer landscape, sipping on a variety of brews and opining on what makes them tasty, and unique. Bottoms up!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 214 - Uncle Nearest Tenessee Whiskey W. Sailor Guevara from 2021-03-04T23:40:10

The fellas are excited to be joined by 2020 Whiskey Icon of the Year, Sailor Guevara, the PNW brand rep for the coolest whiskey company in Tennessee, Uncle Nearest! Get the backstory on how a Black...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 213 - Seattle History, Re-Opening & Celebrity Service Stories from 2021-02-22T11:18:47

Returning guest Eric Hakkinen, the brains behind Seattle's Roquette drops by to tell stories about coming up in the glory days of the Seattle cocktail scene, the challenges of re-opening in the mid...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 212 - Roku Gin from 2021-02-22T11:13:54

The boys are sipping Roku gin and opining on the beauty of Japanese gin and the merits of gin in general.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 211 - Olympia Beer w. Andras Jones Of The World Is Wrong! from 2021-02-13T11:58:47

We're joined by actor and podcaster Andras Jones to talk about the death of Oly beer, Oly's IMDB profile, and movies we think the world is wrong about!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 210 - Home Bar Pt. 3 - The Conclusion from 2021-02-13T11:57:19

The fellas are recapping their first two chapters of the Home Bar series, and digging into all the rest of the things any self-respecting booze aficionado should have in a complete home bar!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 209 - Old Tub Bourbon, R.I.P. The Standard LA from 2021-01-22T10:01:25

Matt has managed to get his hands on the recently available, brand new Jim Beam expression Old Tub bourbon, and he and Justin have some very nice things to say about it. And in sadder news, we mour...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 208 - What We Want from 2021 w. Bobby Stills & Yousef Hawash from 2021-01-22T09:54:35

With the dumpster fire of 2020 behind us, Matt and Justin sit down with Producer Keith, the inimitable Bobby Stills and a late appearance from Social Distance Drinking Club's Yousef Hawash to talk ...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 207 - Jaegermeister w. Bar Manager Extraordinaire Tom Kneeland from 2021-01-22T03:48:27

We were waiting for the right guest to break out our dark mistress, and bar manager extraordinaire Tom Kneeland fits the bill! One of Seattle's most experienced bar managers, and the guy who introd...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 206 - F*** 2020 w. Mad Dog 20/20 & the Return of Hildenbiddle from 2021-01-22T03:45:24

There was only one libation fit to send off the dumpster fire that was 2020: The infamous MD 20/20! Plus the return of Hildenbiddle, our fondest wishes for the year ahead, and few spiffy jingles!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Ep. 205 Pin Hook Bourbon + Home Bar Pt. 2 from 2021-01-22T03:42:21

Matt managed to find a bourbon Justin didn't have, so tonight they pop his Pin Hook Bourbon cherry! Plus the fellas are on Pt. 2 of their Home Bar Series, this time around, it's focusing on vodkas ...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 204 - Captain Morgan's + Home Bar Basics Pt. 1 from 2020-12-22T10:13:08

The fellas are drinking Captain Morgan's, a perfectly serviceable spiced rum with a shady history. Plus they're breaking down the basics of what you need in a home bar, this week focused on whiskey...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 203 - Hot Buttered Rum! from 2020-12-04T08:23:52

The boys are smack dab in the holiday spirit, so what better way to acknowledge it than a holiday spirit? They're knocking back Matt's signature hot buttered rum mix (Justin's using whiskey, but we...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 202 - Wild Turkey, Drunk w. the Kids and the Del Griffith from 2020-11-26T09:36:40

Happy Thanksgiving, friends! We're knocking back the most holiday appropriate thing we could find: Wild Turkey! Plus our buddy Yousef from the Social Distance Drink Club is dropping in, find out wh...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 201 - Ezra Brooks Rye, Jay's Manhattan & Booze News from 2020-11-24T10:01:02

From the depths of the the liquor store's bargain bin, Justin rescued a bottle of Ezra Brooks Rye. Was it a smart choice? Well, it's an interesting story involving Jack Daniels and lawsuits, and th...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 200 - 4 Pillars Gin, Pandemics and a Toast To A Fallen Friend from 2020-11-18T11:10:53

We're not saying we're stressed, but the election still isn't over over, the pandemic is roaring back like a drunken whoo girl, the bars are shutting down again, quite frankly it's been challenging...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 199 - Elections, Bill Murray And Hibiki Whiskey from 2020-11-18T11:08:09

The boys are dealing with election anxiety like responsible adults. They're drinking themselves silly on Japanese whisky, discussing the genius of Bill Murray and his role in making Japanese whisky...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 198 - Noah's Mill Bourbon and a Pandemic Plea For The Blue Moon Tavern from 2020-11-18T11:04:51

The boys are sipping bourbon and talking whiskey, it's short and sweet this week, with a few jokes, a few laughs and plea for help from one of Seattle's most iconic dive bars. Fuck Covid.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 197 - The Red Bull Edition from 2020-11-18T10:56:31

From the back of a Thai taxi, to canoodling with vodka in a glass in your hand, Red Bull is as ubiquitous as any booze in the beverage industry. A marvel of branding and caffeine, Red Bull created ...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 196 - Dewar'th from 2020-11-18T10:52:29

An iconic brand, a mainstay on any shelf, and one whose name begs for a lisp, Dewar's is a classic bottle, and it's about damn time the fellas downed some.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 195 - Cuauhtmoc Moctezuma Beer from 2020-11-18T10:50:42

Mexican beer. It's what's for dinner. But really, the boys dive in to one of Mexico's biggest brewers, exploring some brands and getting a little tipsy. Bottoms up!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 194 - Surviving The Pandemic W. Brad Feather Of Bradley's Kina Tonics from 2020-11-18T10:48:42

Brad Feather of Bradley's Kina Tonics drops by the virtual studio for a talk about how he's surviving the pandemic, some spikes in sales related to things our idiot president said, and why he doesn...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 193 - Exploring Bitters! from 2020-11-18T10:47:09

Matt and Justin are diving face first in the world of bitters, running through some of the more popular options and talking about why it is they are so awesome in the first place. Plus, Justin admi...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 192 - Beers & Hops Education W. Stoup Brewing's Meg Bragg! from 2020-11-18T10:45:39

The fellas are joined by the inimitable Meg Bragg, brewer's assistant at Stoup Brewing to talk about how she helped shape a young Matt James into the bartender he is today, the wonderful array of t...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 191 - Rainier Gin & The History Of Gin Pt. 2 from 2020-09-22T17:38:27

This week we're wrapping up the History of Gin, and to help lubricate the brain boxes, the boys are sipping on a relatively new gin from a company that you wouldn't ordinarily think of as "Hey, tho...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 190 - Genever & The History Of Gin Part 1 from 2020-09-21T22:46:39

Matt went and got all fancy hipster on us this week, digging up a bottle of Genever, which is what gin was before it was something all the cool kids did, and he's got a fascinating history of gin t...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 189 - Remy Martin from 2020-09-21T22:40:57

The fellas are getting fancy with Remy, discussing it's nuances, it's history, how it relates to armagnac, and why the surprising connection that flavored congac has to the PNW!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 188 - Belgian Beer! from 2020-09-16T10:50:30

The fellas are sipping whiskey and Belgian beer, including some interesting trivia about the history of Belgium, why it exists as it does, and great lengths the Belgians go to to make their tasty b...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 187 - Boodles Gin from 2020-08-20T20:54:50

It's oodles and oodles of Boodles! The gin we mean. Matt and Justin are swilling gin and shooting whiskey, discussing the peculiar lack of citrus in Boodles and the tonics they love to pair it with...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBADB 186 - Skol Vodka from 2020-08-06T10:29:47

Quarantine drinking can be expensive, so the fellas are sitting down with a bottle of the reasonably priced Skol Vodka, to reminisce on how Justin came to fall in love with its humble excellence, p...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 185 - Buzz Balls from 2020-08-05T10:39:44

The boys are slumming it this week, but only a little. Because despite it's humble appearance, the Buzz Ball is actually the story of how one woman earned her MBA. Plus it seems to make the fellas ...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 184 - Woodford Reserve Rye from 2020-08-05T10:37:02

Matt. Justin. A bottle of Woodford Reserve Rye. Booze News. Plus, how Justin circumvents the no drinking at work rule.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 183 - Bottoms Up w. Yousef Hawash From The Social Distance Drinking Club from 2020-07-19T11:22:11

The boys have a treat this week! We're heading to Arizona (sort of) to link up with Social Distance Drink Club's Yousef Hawash to talk plum brandy, bad booze news, the Rona in Arizona, Libya and a ...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 182 - Additives & Matt Heymeyer W. Drink Addition from 2020-07-19T11:18:43

Matt and Justin welcome an old friend, Matt Heymeyer of Drink Addition to the show to talk about their cocktail additives, surviving corona, Justin's predilection for burner phones, and why you sho...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 181 - EH Small Batch & Stagg Jr. Bourbons from 2020-07-13T10:06:39

The boys are sitting down with some bourbon. It's a couple very good bottles and some great conversation, plus the debut of the new Booze News featuring Producer Keith. It's a little bigger a littl...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 180 - Cocktails to Go with Eric Hakkinen of Roquette from 2020-06-24T21:00:05

The boys are joined by Erik Hakkinen of Seattle's Roquette to talk about business in the time of corona, the to-go-cocktail movement and life in Seattle

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 179 #BLM w. Uncle Nearest Whiskey from 2020-06-17T08:42:21

The world is full of fuckery, but we've still got your back! This week we're honoring Black Lives Matter with a bottle of Uncle Nearest Tennessee Whiskey. It's all about the untold history of Jack ...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 178 - Jameson, The Better Drinker Book Club & Tony The Mover from 2020-05-05T09:23:50

The boys are back...virtually, but this week they managed to coordinate bottles and they're both sipping on some Jamo and talking their quarantine reads, and waxing philosophically about Tony the M...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 177 - Whiskey, Money & Virii from 2020-04-30T09:54:04

Matt & Justin are back, unfortunately not in the same studio, but they are drinking whiskey together, talking the finer points of a few drams, and discussing some of the oddities that have popped u...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 176 - Live From SeaTown Lockdown! from 2020-04-14T07:42:56

Here's to Fuck Corona! Matt and Justin are coming at you from separate locations. Matt in his Fortress of Solitude aka Bathtub Gin, and Justin from his Southnorth Seattle manse. They're drinking, b...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 175 - Ferpatto Gurrieri + Last Pre-Lockdown Show from 2020-04-08T21:47:59

The boys are back, and in deference to Justin giving up hard alcohol for Lent, they're sipping on some Ferpatto Gurrieri aka the best thing to come out of Italy lately. Plus the boys, are talking a...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 174 - Three Valleys Red & Malt Liquor Yoohoo...Kind of from 2020-03-10T09:00:20

To help Justin celebrate Lent, because even the lapsed can try to find redemption in spirit of Jesus. Justin on the other hand is committed to not drinking hard alcohol. So this week, Matt has a fi...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 173 - Dickel Tabasco Barrel Finished Rye & Talisker 10 from 2020-02-25T10:00

Oh goodness, the boys are putting on their work boots and cracking a bottle of Dickel's answer to Fireball: Tabasco Barrel Finished Rye. I could tell you what they think, but it would ruin the surp...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 172 - Adictivo Reposado Tequila + Mystery Whiskey! from 2020-02-19T23:50:57

The boys are back with a special bottle of tequila smuggled back to US by Justin (we won't say how, but we will say he's still sitting funny). It's tasty, it's sweet, it burns. There's also a myste...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 171 - Rayu Mezcal from 2020-02-12T10:11:28

The boys are back and sipping on a bottle brought to you by thunder bolt sent by the gods aka Rayu Mezcal. A deep dive into the whiskey of Mexico and some taste testing of the new Budweiser hard se...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 170 - Lambay Irish Whiskey from 2020-02-05T10:16:19

Let's go drinking with Matt & Justin! The boys are back with a bottle of Lambay Irish Whiskey, and it is tasty. Bottoms up!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 169 - Drinking With Stauss! from 2020-01-28T10:00

Rolling into the new year with steam, the boys are back with legendary cheese and beer connoisseur Stauss! They're cracking a few homebrews to wash down their Collingwood Whiskey. It's enlightening...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 168 - Redemption Rye Whiskey from 2020-01-24T06:14:25

Happy New Year friends of the show! We took a break, and now we're back, with Justin Freet and Bartender Matt! Justin is also a bartender, but it fucked up the cadence. This week it's Redemption Ry...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 167 - Angel's Envy Bourbon from 2019-11-28T00:43:04

Matt James is joined on mic by producer Keith, who's filling in for the indomitable Justin Freet, who is feverishly tracking down the origins of the Sassy Sally. In his absence, Angel's Envy Bourbo...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 166 - Beaujolais Nouveau & our beef w. Wisconsin from 2019-11-20T23:26:21

Matt and Justin have got a smooth, tasty bottle of red, the first Beaujolais of the season aka Beaujolais Nouveau! History lessons abound. Plus, Matt James goes Godzilla on Wisconsin

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 165 - Heaven Hill 6 Yr. Bonded & Bottled Whiskey from 2019-11-12T08:00:03

In a diabolical twist, Justin turned the tables on Matt! They're sipping on Heaven Hill whiskey and talking about one of Justin's favorite under the radar whiskey favorites. It's also a story about...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 164 - Plum Brandy From Clear Creek! from 2019-11-04T08:00:02

What happens when Matt & Justin sit down for a bottle of plum brandy? Freet Facts. Freet Facts happen. Tune in to find out exactly which ones. You can also get the inside scoop on the $21-a-night d...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 163 - Admiral Rodney Rum & A Cheers Retrospective from 2019-10-29T19:44:42

The boys sit down with a bottle of Admiral Rodney Rum to dissect its intricacies and ruminate on one of the greatest bar shows ever put on network TV, the indomitable Cheers!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 162 - 2 Bar Straight Bourbon Whiskey + Booze News from 2019-10-11T22:13:25

Matt & Justin sit down with a tasty bottle of 2 Bar whiskey and ruminate on history, Jaegermeister, bad marketing and pumpkin spice.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 161 - Ronzacapa 23, Champagne & Vegas from 2019-10-03T01:31:48

Matt and Justin are sitting down with a very tasty bottle of Ron Zacapa 23, and marvel at how much even Justin, who doesn't do rum as a general rule, likes this sexy little treat. Plus Matt recount...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 160 - Ancho Reyes Verde & Bainbridge Whiskey from 2019-09-25T23:03:58

Matt and Justin sit down to ponder the delicacies and uses of Ancho Reyes Verde, a somewhat confusing spirit which they aren't quite sure what to make of, and then wash that down with some Bainbrid...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 159 - The Return of the Hak! aka Roquette's Eric Hakkinen from 2019-09-17T19:27:36

The boys are joined for some tasty south of the border tipples with the brain behind Belltown's Roquette and the in-progress Pink Lady to talk the inspiration behind one project and the struggles b...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 158 - Evan Williams & F*** Bulleit from 2019-08-23T03:24:51

The boys are a back with bottle of Evan Williams, a simple, unpretentious whiskey that wasn't started by an abusive prick, so obviously, we like it. We also discuss the sexual predator in the room....

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 157 - Knob Creek Single Barrel & Miller High Life from 2019-07-24T20:37:56

Matt James and Justin Freet are back with some tasty beverages, this week it's Knob Creek Single Barrel and the Champagne of Beets, Miller High Life! They're also talking about the fire at Jim Beam...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 156 - Rioja Wines from 2019-07-16T07:00:24

During Lent Sir Justin Freet does not partake in the consumption of hard alcohol. So Matt James decided this week they would indulge in a bottle of Spains finest. They talk grapes, what makes it a ...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 155 from the Vault - Blade & Bow Bourbon from 2019-07-11T23:49:29

From the vaults of the Better Drinker, a never before heard tipple of Blade & Bow Bourbon with Matt & Justin, along with some advice about the hype surrounding authenticity in the booze industry an...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 154 - Uruapan Rum & Spezza from 2019-07-02T19:07:20

This week Matt & Justin talk a little about Uruapan, a Mexican rum that has a smooth taste and a beautiful bottle. They taste test the brand new line of cocktails in a can from Sprezza. Big moves f...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 153 - Akashi Whiskey from 2019-06-25T16:32:24

Learn about Akashi Whiskey with the boys as they answer the question. What does Tom Hanks, Connecticut and Saved by the bell all have in common. Find out all this plus more on this weeks pod.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 152 - Contratto Fernet from 2019-06-20T20:23:50

Sit back and sip on some Contratto Fernet with the boys. Get some backstory on the history of the fernet, it's social role in the world of bartending, and listen in as Matt reveals the touching tri...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 151 - Crown M*****f****** Royal! from 2019-06-13T23:17:45

The boys are back with a bottle of one of the all time great standard whiskeys of the world aka Crown Royal, the gift from Canada that makes up for almost everything else. Except Howie Mandel. Matt...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 150 - Kentucky Vintage Bourbon from 2019-06-07T01:29:21

You should be drinking. You should be drinking Kentucky Vintage Bourbon with Matt and Jay. It's a smooth boutique label with sexy ass taste and some damn fine bonafides. And despite what it may sou...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 149 - Few Breakfast Gin from 2019-05-31T18:25:07

Nothing like some day drinking to start a weekend! And appropriately the boys are quaffing Few Breakfast Gin, because tipsy doesn't have a timetable. Bottoms Up!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBADB 148 - What's In Jay's Liquor Cabinet Vol. 3 from 2019-05-21T22:50:59

Deep from the depths of liquor cabinet, Justin brings us a selection of delicious and disturbing spirits to quaff, along with the sweet sweet sounds of pitchman and ad jingle magnate Hildenbiddle! ...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 147 - Rebel Yell Bourbon from 2019-05-15T23:02:46

The boys are sitting down with a bottle of Rebel Yell bourbon, the namesake that Inspired the song, for a discussion of it's practical price point, its ability to be a great party whiskey and a few...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 146 - Aquavit with Michael Edlund from 2019-05-09T21:34:15

Matt and Justin are sitting down with friend of the pod Michael Edlund to dig into some really special bottles of aquavit straight from the frozen north of Europe, most of which you will never find...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 145 - Chateau du Tariquet Armagnac from 2019-04-09T20:42:19

The boys are getting fancy this week! They've got some tasty grapes from France in the form of a bottle of Chateau du Tariquet Armagnac. They also discuss possible rap names and their eventual rap ...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 144 - Cadee Cascadia Whiskey from 2019-03-28T01:18:29

The boys sit down with a bit of Cadee Cascadia Whiskey, enjoy its fine tones and enjoy around of microbrew tasters. It's a fine episode with little to no ridiculous exaggeration. Highly recommended.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 143 - Jeppson's Malort from 2019-03-12T07:00:08

HTBABD 143 - Jeppson's Malort by The lush life has it's twists and turns, let Matt James and Justin Freet show you How To Be A Better Drinker. It's cocktail culture from the inside.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 142 - Lagavulin 16 from 2019-03-06T20:44:11

The boys sit down with an all-time classic, the Lagavulin 16 single malt scotch. Put on your big boy pants, because it's that kind of show! Plus some booze news and an opinion on Heineken!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 141 - Boozy With Tucci from 2019-02-27T00:01:34

The boys are back and this time they have a guest! Matt and Justin sit down with social butterfly and Seattle girl about town Megan Tucci to talk favorite spots, why you never go to a place the fir...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 140 - Maker's Mark Mixdown from 2019-02-22T03:23:08

The boys sit down with an amazingly satisfying bottle of Maker's 46. It's delicious. The drinks in this week's Booze or Bust...maybe not so much. But dig in, it's a wild ride!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 139 - Lagavulin 16 from 2019-02-01T03:09:48

Mat & Justin. A bottle of Lagvulin 16. Epic.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 138 - Glass Vodka from 2019-01-11T10:00:05

It's a special treat this week, as Matt surprises Justin with a bottle that isn't just a bottle, it's a treasure trove of sex toys! Sip and imagine with Glass Vodka.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 137 - Sazerac Rye Whiskey from 2019-01-04T22:33:12

Matt & Justin sit down with a tasty bottle of Sazerac Rye Whiskey, which leads into a discussion of the wide universe of Sazerac and the smaller galaxy of whiskeys living within it, as well as pop ...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 136 - Jim Beam & Knob Creek from 2018-12-20T22:02:19

In the Spirit of Christmas, Matt James gifts Mr. Freet with a show about not one, but two whiskeys. With appearances by Jim Beam and Knob Creek.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 135 - The Glenrothes Sherry Cask Reserve from 2018-12-12T09:29:36

Matt & Justin sit down with a tasty bottle of Glenrothes Sherry Cask Reserve, talk its long history, it’s connections to gangsters, Cutty Sark, bootlegging and the real McCoy. Plus stealth Freet Fa...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 134 - Barsol Pisco & Mead from 2018-11-27T07:27:47

The limber lads of luxurious libations are back with a bottle of Barsol Pisco to talk Pisco Sours and people who think they know more about booze than Matt. They've also got a few pints of mead to ...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 133 - Old Grand Dad Whiskey from 2018-11-15T20:01:21

Matt and Justin sit down with a bottle of Old Grand Dad whiskey, a sometimes-maligned classic of American distilling. It's history, Freet Facts, Booze News and more!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 132 - Empress Gin from 2018-11-08T01:02:54

Matt and Justin are sitting down with a bottle of Empress Gin, pondering it's gorgeous bluish colors, digging through brewhouse grab bag of beverages, and talking the drunken airline flights and Am...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 131 - A Vegas Vacation & Michter's Straight Rye from 2018-10-30T09:00:03

After swing through the drinking and dining establishments of Las Vegas, Matt James is back to talk the food, the booze and the worst drink he had on his trip. He's also brought a bottle of Michter...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 130 - All The Vodkas W. Dylan from 2018-10-27T00:41:57

Matt James and Justin Freet are back! This time they've brought their favorite vodka enthusiast Dylan back to face the Vodka Blind Taste Test! Five bottles, no idea what's what. It's the battle to...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 130 House Of Lustau With Nathan Layman from 2018-10-16T09:00:09

Your favorite booze hounds are back on the mic, and this time they brought a friend! Nathan Layman of the House of Lustau brandy & sherry producers is in the studio with a large bag filled with man...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 129 - Aviation Gin! from 2018-10-09T09:00:19

Matt and Justin are sipping on that smooth, smooth lady, Ryan Reynolds' favorite tipple: Aviation Gin. They set Avaition head up against some other gins, and well, you'll need to listen to hear the...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 128 - Smith & Cross Traditional Jamaican Rum from 2018-10-01T05:28:28

Matt and Justin are in studio with a very nice bottle of Smith & Cross Traditional Jamaican Rum, a spiced rum with loads of history. It's good for the heart and good for the soul. Plus Justin retel...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 127 - Sipsmith Sloe Gin from 2018-09-26T16:31:50

Your favorite professional drink tipplers are back with that oh-so-British of tipples, slow gin. Take a listen as Matt and Justin explore the nuance and history of one of Europe's finest, and least...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 126 - Lustau Brandy De Jerez from 2018-09-19T22:33:58

Brandy. Sexy, tasty, brandy. That's what the boys are drinking tonight. You should join them for the usual shenanigans.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 125 - Bainbridge Battle Point Whiskey & More With Barry from 2018-08-28T06:22:07

Matt and Justin are joined in studio by longtime fan Barry, who brought them a very nice treat...some Bainbridge Battle Point Whiskey! He lays down the bon fides of this fine bottle, and then helps...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 124 - Malfy Gin from 2018-08-23T00:04:02

Join Matt and Justin as they dip into Malfy Gin, a lemony, delightful little bottle of joy. There's some history, Booze News: the completely unnecessary waste of time and money edition, plus a few ...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 123 - Russel's Reserve Rye from 2018-08-07T09:00:04

Russell makes excellent rye. Matt & Justin have a bottle of their Reserve Rye. They drink it, they discuss it and are visited by Matthew McConaughey's stunt double. We think. We're not sure. It's a...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 122 - Barton 1792 Bourbon from 2018-07-24T07:44:02

Matt & Justin sit down with an exceptional bottle of Barton 1792 bourbon with some Dutch swill. It's a long gaze into the delicious depths of a very fine bourbon, along with a few words for Heineken.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 121 - Live From Cursed Oak! from 2018-07-12T09:36:40

Matt James is live at Cursed Oak with a laundry list of stuff for the show: the history of the Zombie and Don's Beachcomber, some tunes from the Belltown Minstrel, bingo with Shawn Oster, and final...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 120 - What's In Jay's Liquor Cabinet Pt. 3? from 2018-07-03T09:00:05

OMG! It's another edition of What's In Jay's Liquor Cabinet with special guest jingle juggler John Hildenbiddle! In a truly bizarre turn, Jay manages to offend our eyes and our tastebuds in one go....

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 119 - James E Pepper 1776 Rye from 2018-06-26T09:00:14

Our two favorite drink slingers sit down with a nice smooth bottle of James E Pepper 1776 Rye, to talk the benefits of good whiskey, a quick preview and some interviews leading up to the PROOF tast...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 118 - Pernod & Beer! from 2018-06-19T08:30:44

It’s Pernod time! Matt and Justin have returned bearing gifts. For their livers. They’ve got the aforementioned spirit, plus a wonderfully meaty beer. Yes, meaty. And Frozè shows up in Booze News!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 117 Woodford Reserve Bourbon from 2018-06-12T07:23:19

Your favorite slingers of lusty libations are back with a fine bottle of bourbon! Woodford Reserve to be specific, and there's a lot to say about that. There's also some Booze News regarding some S...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 116 Apertivo w. Leith Shenstone of Fasel Shenstone Importers from 2018-06-07T01:35:30

With Justin Freet on a secret mission regarding some bushes, Matt James sits down with Robby Stills and Fasel Shenstone principal Leith Shenstone to talk Apertivos, a widely misunderstood refreshment.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 115 - Slaughter House Whiskey from 2018-05-31T19:57:03

Matt James & his indomitable sidekick Justin Freet are back! And this week they’re sipping on Slaughter House Whiskey, a fine offering from the West Coast. They’re also talking Booze News, and the ...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 114 - El Dorado 15 Rum + A Bunch Of Surprise Booze! from 2018-05-22T08:31:02

Matt and Justin return to Studio 212 with a vengeance after last week's non-alcoholic episode. This week it's El Dorado 15 rum, plus a bunch of surprise booze that hitched a ride in the host's bag,...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 113 - Not Drinking With Gyasi Ross from 2018-05-15T08:37:07

Matt James & Justin Freet are back with a special episode of How To Be A Better Drinker, sitting down with fellow podcast host Gyasi Ross of Breakdancing With Wolves, who has not ever drank the dev...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 112 - High West Whiskey Double Rye from 2018-05-12T05:54:45

Our favorite imbibers of alcoholic refreshments have returned with a tasty bottle of High West's Double Rye whiskey. They're also vetting new bar concepts this episode, so get your pens and pencils...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 111 - NOLET's Gin from 2018-04-26T23:05:05

Matt James and Justin Freet are right back at it with a bottle of gin and some booze news!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 109 - Pimm's No. 1 from 2018-04-18T08:57:08

Matt James & Justin Freet are back! This time, they're sipping on Pimm's No. 1. Join in and find out about No.1, No. 2 and a few other editions of Pimm's!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 110 Laphroaig Quarter Cask from 2018-04-18T08:49:59

The boys are sitting around sipping Laphroaig Quarter Cask. It's whiskey, and the boys, at their finest. Enjoy!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 108 - Pints & Whiskey With Micheal Roberts from 2018-04-02T08:36:40

Friend of the Pod and longtime bartender, Micheal Roberts is Seattle's favorite expat Jamaican Brit. He drops through to share some pints and whiskey with Matt James, talk his life behind the bar a...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 107 - Amaro Nonino from 2018-03-27T06:36:58

In a rousing episode filled with towels that get married, the genius of Eddie Murphy, and Amaro Nonino, Matt & Justin get lost in the wonders of this delightful Sicilian spirit. Plus a rousing game...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 106 - Barolo Chinato Fortified Wine from 2018-03-20T06:55:55

The boys sit down with a bottle of Barolo Chinato fortified wine to talk life, death, kids and a number of other things, none of which they can manage to take seriously. It's a smooth ride down the...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 105 - Soju! from 2018-03-08T08:35:27

Matt and Justin are tackling Soju in honor of the recently completed Olympics! Plus Deadpool aka Ryan Reynolds is getting into the gin business, Justin judges the Whiskey Olympics and we hear tales...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 104 - Ouzo from 2018-02-27T07:13:02

Matt James and Justin Freet, trusty co-hosts, take on that finest of Greek exports, ouzo. Plus some after action reports from the Valentine's Day frontlines, and the fascinating world of booze news...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 103 - Singani 63! from 2018-02-21T23:48:48

The boys are back with a very special bottle of Singani 63, some blind beer testing and this week's Booze News!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 102 - Pusser Rum! from 2018-02-15T00:57:37

The boys are sipping some Pusser Rum (how it got the name isn't nearly as weird as the name sounds) talking it's evolution, the cocktail it's parent company copywrote, and tackle teh perplexing iss...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 101 - Varieties Of Absolut Vodka from 2018-02-05T05:21:33

Matt & Justin are back! And despite their reputations both personally and professionally, they're spending this week sipping a variety of Absolut flavors. But it isn't just about vodka, because tha...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 100 - Bordeaux! from 2018-01-24T08:36:34

For the 100th episode, Matt and Justin crack a couple bottles of the world's most storied wine: Bordeaux!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 99 - Four Roses Small Batch Whiskey & Sober Bartenders from 2018-01-16T19:30:56

Matt James and Justin Freet are back to fill your mind and tax your liver with another episode of How To Be A Better Drinker! This week they're sipping on Four Roses Small Batch whiskey, and talkin...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 98 - Strega Liqueur from 2018-01-10T20:21:27

It's the first show of the New Year, and they're starting it off with a doozy combination of Strega liqueur and Hot Toddies. Plus a rousing game of Beer Tinder!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 97 - Balvenie & The Tasting Glasses from 2018-01-10T20:19:25

Matt James & the illustrious Justin Freet sit down to finish out 2017 with the grandest of whiskies and some nifty glass hardware to give it a chance to be all it can. Happy New Year Folks!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Bonus Live Episode - Mulled Wine Live @ Cursed Oak! from 2018-01-10T11:35:43

Join Matt & Justin live from Cursed Oak in Seattle's Belltown Neighborhood for a rousing evening of trivia, cursing, prizes, mulled wine and a final answer to the question: is Die Hard a Christmas ...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 96 - The Irish Cream! from 2017-12-07T21:35:24

With the holidays approaching, Matt and Justin sit down with a selection of Irish Creams. Two, to be exact. Pull up a stool and get the inside scoop on one of the greatest marketing campaigns ever.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 95 - Amaretto from 2017-11-30T20:15:27

This week, the boys dive into Amaretto with producer Robby behind the boards, there's some Freet Facts, some Booze News, and maybe a little more!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 94 - Amaro Di Angostura from 2017-11-14T19:31:53

It's your favorite bartenders! Matt James and Justin Freet are sipping on Amaro Di Angostura. It's a weird one, but they've got the backstory, a few suggested uses and some booze news!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 93 - Maguey Mezcal! from 2017-11-08T11:08:56

Matt James and Justin Freet are at it again! This time their hanging out with Bobby Stills and drinking Mezcal. History and hijinks ensue!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 92 - Bourbon & Beers With Brad from 2017-10-31T09:01:51

With Justin Freet on a top secret mission to recover the a priceless 18yr bourbon from a trap-laden fortress somewhere in South America, Matt James welcomes Brad Feather of Bradley’s Kina Tonic to ...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 91 - Appleton Rare Blend 12yr Rum from 2017-10-24T08:44:52

Matt and Justin are sitting back with a bottle of Jamaica's finest, Appleton Rare Blend 12 Yr Rum. The toasty warm glow leads to conversation. It's history, rambling, musing and more!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 90 - Auchentoshan 12 Year W. Becca McDonald Of Shelter Lounge from 2017-10-10T06:31:21

Our fearless hosts are joined by the Becca McDonald of Ballard's Shelter Lounge, for a rousing, rambling, somewhat ephemeral conversation over a bottle of Auchentoshan 12yr, a fitting drink for suc...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 89 - Park Cognac from 2017-10-03T08:02:03

The fellas sit down with a bottle of Park Cognac and let it’s velvety complexity loosen their tongues to consider a number of things, including Justin’s martini adventures, some film musings and wh...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 88 - Barleywine from 2017-09-29T09:19:16

Matt and Justin sit down with a few bottles of barleywine to muse on how tasty it is, it's history, some odd facts, and then dig into some Bar Air BnB news, some inflatable bar news, and a few asid...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 87 - A Variety Of Dolin Vermouths from 2017-09-21T09:07:23

With Justin avoiding the hard stuff for Drytember, Matt thoughtfully brings in three varieties of Dolin Vermouth to wet the whistle and opine on. Plus booze news!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 86 - What's in Jay's Liquor Cabinet Part 2 from 2017-09-12T21:47:59

It's a rousing night of What's in Jay's Liquor Cabinet with some very special treats not just from Jay, but Matt has a few things straight from NYC to add to the fun. Also, the return of the Hilden...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 85 - Blanton's Straight Kentucky Bourbon from 2017-09-05T06:30:15

It's your favorite bartenders back for another round! Matt James and Justin Freet with a very special bottle of Blanton's Straight Kentucky Bourbon to tipple back and consider. Plus Justin reveals ...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 84 - Cocchi Americano from 2017-08-29T07:28:07

Join Matt James and Justin Freet for a whimsical waltz through the history and utility of that oh so rare bird Cocchi Americano. There's also a nice discussion of some James Bond related drinking s...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 83 - Monkey 47 Gin from 2017-08-22T20:49:17

Matt & Justin discuss the relative merits of the excellent Monkey 47 gin. Plus some talk about robots.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 82 - Willett Pot Still Bourbon w/ Biz Dingivan from 2017-08-15T05:12:20

After an small technical error and a several drams of Willett Pot Still Bourbon, Matt & Justin welcome Seattle bartender and whiskey expert Biz Dingivan to talk bourbon, bars that shall not be name...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 81 - Plantation Pineapple Rum from 2017-08-04T08:06:41

What a way to spend a hazy summer day: tipples of Pineapple rum, and the two most talkative bartenders you know, Matt James & Justin Freet. Aside from the usual shenanigans, there's also some serio...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 80 - Amaro Montenegro with The Yoga Bartender Dylan Noebels from 2017-07-27T10:31:41

On this episode, The Yoga Bartender Dylan Noebels stops in to help polish off a bottle of Italy's finest: Amaro Montenegro! Plus Booze News, some advice on taking care of your body and of course th...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 79 - Zima Limited Release With Dave Flatman From Screwdriver from 2017-07-20T03:32:02

We mean, if Zima is going to pull out all the stops and do a limited edition run of Zima this summer, of course we're going to feature it! Plus we have noted Zima enthusiast Dave Flatman from Seatt...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 78 - Celebrity Tequila from 2017-07-13T06:32

Matt & Justin sit down with a couple of bottles of celebrity tequila. One the dig, one they do not. And you will definitely know which is which by the end of the show.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 77 - Art In The Age's Root Liqueur from 2017-07-01T11:22:39

Root beer favored liqueur. Because. Join Matt & Justin as they sip something sweet and talk about it. It's booze, it's conversation, it's an excuse to not listen to the voice in your head telling y...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 76 - Guest recording artist and former bartender Mary Lambert from 2017-06-22T23:43:38

Matt James welcomes into studio 212 Grammy nominated recording artist and former bartender Mary Lambert to talk about her life of being behind the bar to singing on the Grammy's. The also play the ...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 75 - Sake part III featuring Jen Ross from 2017-06-18T06:38:59

Matt & Justin are talking about Sake once again this week, but this time they have a sake expert in studio. Jen Ross from Young's market is here to guide them through the in's and outs of everythin...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 74 - Pikesville Straight Rye Whiskey from 2017-06-07T23:14:33

Matt James and Justin Freet get to the bottom of the Pikesville Straight Rye Whiskey story. And the bottle.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 73 - Bacardi Ocho from 2017-05-26T10:34:54

Matt and Justin are back with a new challenge! Find something about garden variety rum they like. And they do. But you have to listen to find out what.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 72 - Rosé from 2017-05-19T06:14:03

Welcome to the Rosé episode. This is about the wine. There are two hardened veterans of manly liquors drinking it. It will make you a better drinker.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 71 - Sake Part Deux! from 2017-05-12T09:00:28

Matt & Justin are back at it with the return of Sake! After feeling slightly overwhelmed by the scope and depth of the topic during their first try, the boys are back to fill some holes, including ...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 70 - Templeton Rye Whiskey from 2017-05-01T07:31:51

Join Matt & Justin as the throw down with "the good stuff" aka Templeton Rye Whiskey, claimed by none than Al Capone as the whiskey of choice for gangsters with taste.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 69 - Nikka Coffey Whisky from 2017-04-25T04:56:26

Join Matt & Justin as the take a trip to the Far East courtesy one of the finer Japanese whiskys on the market. It's a little history, a few laughs and a lot of fun.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 68 - A Variety Of Seagrams.. from 2017-04-21T03:19:16

Matt & Justin sit down with a variety of Seagrams' products to try and work her way through them. It's not a challenge they were prepared for.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
Re-Air: Faster Than The World Presents: How To Be A Better Drinker from 2017-04-10T21:14:18

With Matt and Justin resting their livers and vocal chords, HTBABD brings you a throwback episode to that time when Matt & Megan were interviewed by Ryan Pangilinan from the Faster Than The World P...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 67 - Redbreast 12 Yr. Irish Whiskey from 2017-04-04T06:21:19

Come feel the soothing effect of Redbreast 12yr Irish Whiskey with Matt & Justin. It's a very smooth, very nice tipple.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 67 - CatDaddy, Calvados And John Hildenbiddle from 2017-03-28T20:24:13

Back with a very special episode, the gang is asking - and answering - the question: What's in the back of you liquor cabinet? This time, Justin drags out a very special bottle of Catdaddy moonshin...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 66 - Mezcal With Erik Hakkinen from 2017-03-20T19:38:45

Matt and Justin are joined in studio by Erik Hakkinen to talk mezcal, worms and history. Drink up!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 65 - Bulleit Bourbon from 2017-03-13T08:37:51

Matt & Justin crack a bottle of Bulleit Bourbon and wax philosophic. Kick back and enjoy.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 64 - Pruno aka Prison Wine w/ Wesley Snipes Type from 2017-03-07T18:20:24

Matt & Justin are joined by Breakdances With Wolves' Wesley Snipes Type to enjoy a 2017 vintage orange pruno, aka prison wine. Its a cinversation about fermentation, life inside and the surprisingl...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 63 - Chateauneuf Du Pape from 2017-02-27T10:03:50

Matt and Justin do battle with two types of Chateauneuf du Pape, technical difficulties, and rogue wine glasses to give you the history, quirks, and background to one of the better known brands of ...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 62 - Dogfish Head Crafted Ales from 2017-02-18T08:48:01

Matt & Justin sit down with an assortment of hand crafted ales from Dogfish Head brewery. There are some surprises, some treats, and some good conversation.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 61 - Ransom Gin from 2017-02-14T18:06:20

Matt & Justin kidnap a bottle of Ransom Gin. Like many kidnappings, the victim was never seen again, leaving only a hangover in its passing.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 60 - Tanqueray Gin from 2017-01-27T21:09:22

Matt and Justin sit down for a Gin and Juice sampling, plus a little history lesson.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 59 - Alphabet Vodka from 2017-01-24T21:10:09

Matt and Justin welcome Matt's brother to the show to talk about his current gig with Alphabet vodka!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 58 - The Glenlivet 12 Year from 2017-01-13T04:02:36

Matt James and Justin Freet are back on the whisky river, this time with an endearing bottle of Glenlivet 12 Year.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 57 - Aperol! from 2017-01-05T09:51:57

Matt James & Justin Freet take on Aperol in a winding, wandering discussion. Laughs, drinks, musings and more.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 56 - Proseco & Cava from 2016-12-29T23:51:01

Matt & Justin are back with some advice for a budget conscious new year's celebration with proseco and cava. It's champagne dreams on a budget.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 55 - Calvados Apple Brandy from 2016-12-25T03:01:33

Matt & Justin sip the fine, fine beverage of the holidays: Calvados Apple Brandy and reminisce on the holiday season. It's the bizniz this episode.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 54 - Holiday Re-Air: Episode 1 - Aberlour 16 from 2016-12-16T05:55:38

It's a throwback! With Matt & Justin pursuing the finer points of being better drinkers, it's a throwback to the first ever episode of How To Be A Better Drinker, with the one and only Megan Ternes.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 53 - Barbancourt Rum from 2016-12-06T21:44:35

Matt and Justin sit down for a talk about, and more than a glass or two, of Barbancourt Rum. Which is really tasty. Bottoms Up!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 52 - W.L. Weller 12 Year Old Whiskey from 2016-12-04T06:44:25

Matt and Justin are back in the building with a special, special bottle of WL Weller 12 Year whiskey, something rationed so tightly, Matt had to steal his from work. Not really steal, he'll pay for...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 51 - Live From The Dive Bar Film Festival @ The Blue Moon Tavern from 2016-11-22T06:18:10

Live from the historic Seattle watering hole The Blue Moon Tavern, which has played host to any number of beat legends, and is a dive bar in every sense of the word. Which is appropriate, since thi...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 50 - Mulled Wine! from 2016-11-15T19:02:19

Justin and Matt sit down with a thermos of mulled wine to talk about the upside to spicing up your wine and drinking it warm.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 49 - Sake! from 2016-11-11T06:47:43

Matt & Mr. Freet get elbow deep into a couple bottles of Sake, and in a rare moment of humble humility, Matt admits to having been utterly surprised by how much there is to know. Plus, a secret abo...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 48 - Pierre Ferrand Cognac from 2016-11-01T21:05:04

The boys sit down with a bottle of tasty, tasty cognac to discuss history, life and the warm glow of good booze.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 47 - Tempus Fugit Gran Classico Bitters from 2016-10-25T04:48:05

Matt and Justin sit down with a bottle of Tempus Fugit Gran Classico Bitters to talk the art of making bitters, a tribute to Dorothy Parker and some info on the next live show.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 46 - Rainier Beer from 2016-10-18T20:22:13

HTBABD 46 - Rainier Beer by The lush life has it's twists and turns, let Matt James and Justin Freet show you How To Be A Better Drinker. It's cocktail culture from the inside.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 45 - Bradley's Kina Tonic with Brad Feather from 2016-10-04T01:56:29

Matt and Justin welcome Brad Feather of Bradley's Kina Tonic to talk his journey from 16-year-old brewer to bonafide distiller of fine tonics. It's great conversation with one of the industry's fin...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 44 - Maker's Mark from 2016-09-24T02:47:28

Matt James and Justin Freet sit down with a bottle of Maker's Mark to discuss the finer points of whiskey.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 43 - The Westland Single Malt Family from 2016-09-14T12:28:18

Matt & Justing welcome Brian Mura from Westland Distillery to the show to talk the Westland family of single malt scotches. It's fascinating conversation with a distillery recently named the best i...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 42 - Capel's Pisco from 2016-09-06T07:51:38

Justin & Matt sit down with a bottle of pisco to talk South American booze politics, and the legend of Porfirio Rubirosa, one of the great playboys of yesterday.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 41 - Buffalo Trace Whiskey from 2016-08-30T19:09:25

Matt and Justin sip that smooth, fine nectar known as Buffalo Trace, and keeping in the spirit of Buffalos and the old west, recount the legend of Doc Holliday, one of our favorite drinkers.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 40 - Adam Brown & Jason Reid Of Dirtbag - The Legend Of Fred Beckey from 2016-08-23T19:57:24

Matt and Justin are joined by the makers of the infamous Sonicsgate documentary to discuss their new film "Dirtbag: The Legend of Fred Beckey" about Seattle's most illustrious characters. There's a...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 39 - Martin Miller's Gin from 2016-08-17T07:50:49

Matt and Justin sit down with a crisp bottle of Martin Miller's Gin to learn some history, have a few belts and a rousing game of What Would They Drink? featuring the cast of Suicide Squad.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 38 - Glenfiddich 18 with Dustin Haarstad of Canon + William Grant & Sons from 2016-08-10T10:45:32

We're excited about this one! We've got a heavyweight in the Seattle booze scene. Dustin Haarstad who serves as bartender at Canon, Seattle brand rep for Glenfiddich and Balvenie, and founder of B...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 37 - Aquavit & Justin Freet from 2016-08-03T06:41

Matt James sits down with Justin Freet and welcomes him to his new co-hosting chair with a glass of Aquavit. Plus, our first nominee for the Drinking Hall of Fame!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 36 - Bruichladdich Rocks & The Return Of Justin Freet from 2016-07-25T06:05:40

With Megan recovering from adventures in the wild, using the skills she's acquired as a better drinker to survive all the mayhem, our buddy Justin Freet drops by to fill the chair and share a dram ...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 35 - Cointreau, Willows Inn, Overpriced Whiskey from 2016-07-11T07:48:38

With Megan back in the studio, she and Matt tackle the orangey goodness of Cointreau, talk Megan's trip to the Willows Inn (hint: it's f****** awesome), and discuss the alternatives to over-priced ...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 34 - Green Chartreuse W. Kyle Takacs From Bottle & Bull from 2016-07-06T06:26:17

With Megan off in search of...well, we're not really sure to be honest, Kyle Takacs of Bottle & Bull drops in to talk his history in the bar business, the first cocktail of his that made it on a me...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 33 - Don Julio Anejo from 2016-06-27T17:33:47

Matt & Megan return for an evening with Don Julio Anejo, discuss margaritas and revel in the Seattle summer.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 32 - The Daiquiri & Some Thoughts On Orlando from 2016-06-22T08:47:12

It's about time for a relaxing boat drink. Summertime shenanigans with Matt and Megan as they take on the daiquiri. And some words from Matt as an industry professional on the fucked up act of a cr...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 31 - Live From Seattle's Whiskey Bar! from 2016-06-14T20:57:40

It's our first live show! Matt & Megan take their show on the road, setting up in Seattle's infamous Whiskey Bar, for a bit of history on the negroni, a stories about the Biebs running into trouble...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 30 - The Ardbeg 10 from 2016-06-07T07:58:48

With Megan back in the studio, Matt brings in a beautiful bottle of Ardbeg 10-year old scotch to welcome her back from her weeks of adventure. We get the back story on one of the finest bottles of ...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 29 - Mezcal w/ Erik Hakkinen & Marcus Johnson from 2016-05-31T05:50:48

With Megan out of town, Matt James brings in reinforcements! Local cocktail whiz Erik Hakkinen and local nightlife magnate Marcus Johnson. They talk mezcal, why opening a bar is risky, and how to b...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 28 - The Chairman's Choice, Jack Daniels from 2016-05-24T07:59:20

Who loves you baby? Matt James & Megan Ternes, that's who. Which is why they're taking on the Chairman's Choice, aka Jack Daniels, aka what Sinatra swears by (or would if he weren't dead). There's ...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 27 - Bottle & Bull's Justin Godsey from 2016-05-17T06:30:16

Veteran cocktail slinger Justin Godsey of Kirkland, WA's Bottle & Bull stops by to talk about his life behind a bar and how he turned smoked salmon into a cocktail. Drink up!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 26 - Jameson! from 2016-05-10T06:48:31

It's a deep dive in to the history of whiskey as Matt & Megan take a look at the why's and wherefore's of that most popular of spirits, Jameson Irish Whiskey.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 25 - Sherry and The Birth of the El Murado from 2016-05-03T17:45:07

Matt & Megan sample some exquisite port, ponder St. Germain and Ancho Reyes and whip up a concoction they've dubbed El Murado, "The Purple One."

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 24 - Pike Brewing Company & Meg Bragg from 2016-04-26T07:21:10

Matt James and Megan Ternes welcome Meg Bragg of Pike Brewing Company to the studio to talk beer, micro-brewing in the pacific northwest and all things hop related. It's a doozy.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 23 - The Joys of Port! from 2016-04-19T09:01:51

This episode Matt & Megan explore the joys of port, the weirdness of wifi wine bottles, and the stupidity of John Taffer.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 22 - Luca Collia From Distilleria Caffo from 2016-04-12T06:20:49

With Megan Ternes on special assignment to find out exactly what makes her a better drinker, Matt James sits down with Luca Collia, the US rep for Distilleria Caffo, an Italian purveyor of fine liq...

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 21 - Rum with The Cocktail Wonk! from 2016-04-08T16:31:33

Matt and Megan are joined by the infamous blogger Matt Pietrek aka The Cocktail Wonk to talk the beauty of rum!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 19 - Laird's Applejack from 2016-03-29T07:18:20

Matt James & Megan Ternes: your guides to having a more fulfilling relationship with alcohol. This week, they talk Laird's Applejack. Because it's really tasty.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 18 - Old Overholt from 2016-03-22T18:43:43

Matt and Megan are back with a bottle of Old Overholt, because whisky is awesome.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 17 - Elijah Craig Bourbon from 2016-03-15T10:35:40

In the hungover aftermath of a very well received launch party, Matt & Megan take to the mic to talk the event, some really tasty bourbon and St. Patty's Day.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 16 - Batch 206 Vodka from 2016-03-10T10:52:11

Matt & Megan bring in on home with a couple good pulls off of one of Seattle's own, Batch 206 Vodka.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 14 - Genever from 2016-03-10T10:52:02

This week the crew digs into Genever, gin's older, Dutch-er cousin.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 13 - St. George Absinthe from 2016-03-10T10:51:54

Matt & Megan dispel some myths around the often misunderstood spirit that has titillated hipsters for decades.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 12 - White Zin from 2016-03-10T10:51:47

What?!?! F%&$ing white zinfandel from Sutter Home? What are Matt & Megan thinking with this one?

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 11 - Fernet from 2016-03-10T10:51:39

Your favorite ambassadors of the lush life get down and dirty with what's occasionally known as the bartenders handshake, Fernet Branca.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 10 - Rhum JM from 2016-03-10T10:51:30

Matt & Megan take a long pull from a smooth sugar cane concoction.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 9 - Green Chartreuse from 2016-03-10T10:51:25

Matt James & Megan Ternes are chasing the green fairy with their look at green chartreuse.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 8 - Novo Fogo Cachaca from 2016-03-10T10:51:17

Matt James & Megan Ternes head down towards the equator to find this week's drink of choice: Novo Fogo Cachaca! It's like sunshine in a bottle.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 7 - Angostura Bitters from 2016-03-10T10:51:10

Matt James & Megan Ternes give you the skinny on bitters, that often mentioned, but maybe not so well understood bottle behind the bar.

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 6 - Happy New Years! from 2016-03-10T10:51:01

Matt James & Megan Ternes give you their year end episode with their look at New Years!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 5 - Egg Nog from 2016-03-10T10:50:47

Matt James & Megan Ternes are in the holiday spirit, with one holiday spirit you might not know was responsible for a riot: Egg Nog

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 4 - 3 Howls Naval Strength Gin from 2016-03-10T10:50:38

Matt James & Megan Ternes are professionals! Don't try this at home. Unless you've listened to them faithfully. Then you can try it. This week: 3 Howls Naval Strength Gin

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 3 - 6 Year Rhum Clement from 2016-03-10T10:50:25

Matt James & Megan Ternes like alcohol. They also know a lot about it. This is where they talk about it. This week: 6 Year Rhum Clement

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 2 - Becherovka from 2016-03-10T10:50:15

Matt James & Megan Ternes give you a look at drinking culture from the other side of the bar. This week: Becherovka!

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 1 - Aberlour 16 from 2016-03-10T10:50:05

Matt James & Megan Ternes want to make you a better drinker. This week: Abelour 16

Listen
How To Be A Better Drinker
HTBABD 15 - Cynar & Justin Freet from 2016-03-01T21:20:45

Matt James & Megan Ternes welcome Seattle bon vivant, man about town, filmmaker and bartender Justin Freet to the show to talk the Rawstock Film Festival, the industry and all things alcoholic!

Listen