HAGERSTOWN, Md. — On Friday, Aug. 14, and Saturday, Aug. 15, Barrel Bodega in Hagerstown will welcome “Poppy” Bruce Potash, master taster, master blender and author of “My Journey into American Whiskey,” for a two-day public event that combines a book signing with a guided tasting of his double gold–winning bourbon, The Old Guard.
Potash brings a credential that is genuinely uncommon in the industry, organizers said. Over several years, he personally visited more than 30 American distilleries, earning behind-the-scenes access typically reserved for industry insiders.
From operations staffed by first-year apprentices working toward their Stave and Thief Society certification, to multigenerational Master Distillers with eight-generation family legacies, Potash absorbed the full spectrum of American bourbon craft — and documented the journey in his book.
That accumulated knowledge, Potash said, found its way into every bottle of The Old Guard Bourbon, which has since earned Gold at the New York World Wine & Spirits Competition and Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition — two of the most respected blind-tasting panels in the world.
Judges praised the bourbon’s exceptional balance: a nose of vanilla, caramel, honey and dried fruit; a smooth, layered palate of oak, toffee, cinnamon and clove; and a finish that is warm, velvety and long-lasting.
During the two-day event at Barrel Bodega, Potash will preside over a guided tasting of The Old Guard Bourbon, walking attendees through the tasting process — from color and aroma to palate and finish — and sharing the stories behind the spirit.
He will also be signing copies of his book, offering readers a firsthand account of the distilleries, the craftspeople and the traditions that shaped both the book and the bourbon.
The event is open to the public and free to attend. Barrel Bodega is located at 17618 Valley Mall Rd., Hagerstown.
ABOUT BARREL BODEGA
Barrel Bodega reimagines the traditional bodega as a destination where food, drink and community come together. Part boutique grocery and part neighborhood hangout, the bodega pairs artisanal sandwiches and items like cheeses and cured meats with a selection of fine wines, craft beers and premium spirits.
