Photo by Drinking Whiskey Is My Job: A Glimpse Into the Life of Nate Woodruff
Nate Woodruff has transformed his passion for whiskey into what he calls the greatest job on earth. Residing in scenic Pinedale, Wyoming, he devotes his days to tasting and reviewing an impressive array of whiskey, sharing his experiences with a growing online audience.
Exploring whiskey in the great outdoors.
A Journey to Passion
Though originally hailing from Boonton, New Jersey, Nate embodies the spirit of Wyoming, with its rich Western culture and love for fine whiskey. After a transformative year spent on the road during the pandemic, he landed in Pinedale, a town nestled at an elevation of 7,175 feet, far above his previous home. With over 80,000 Instagram followers in tow, he found new opportunities to document his whiskey adventures against a breathtaking backdrop.
One of his recent escapades took him to a staggering height of 14,000 feet near Mount Sneffels in Colorado, where he sampled bourbon on a helicopter ride for TINCUP Mountain Whiskey. This unique experience showcased the brand’s Fourteener series, which honors Colorado’s majestic peaks.
“They have a Fourteener series. They’re naming their higher-end bourbon after each 14,000-foot peak in Colorado,” notes Woodruff. “It was a really, really cool experience.”
Discovering Whiskey’s Allure
Nate’s journey to whiskey expertise wasn’t instantaneous. He reminisces about his experience when, at the age of 23, he reluctantly took a recommendation from his bar manager to try Maker’s Mark. Initially resistant due to a teenage mishap involving Jack Daniel’s, he soon found himself captivated by the nuances of whiskey flavor and craft. This journey launched a decade of exploration into all things whiskey, evolving from a casual drinker to an authority in the field.
From Bartending to Brand Ambassador
At just 24, Woodruff became a brand ambassador for a whiskey company, where he began reviewing products on social media. Those first few posts were a gamble, but they paid off in spades, propelling his profile to new heights and establishing him as a go-to reviewer among whiskey enthusiasts.
Sampling and savoring every drop.
With stints overseeing the national bourbon brand for Michter’s Distillery and working with iconic names like Glenfiddich and WhistlePig under his belt, he learned the ins and outs of whiskey branding and marketing. “I really embraced the marketing side,” he said, honing his skills to help brands stand out in a crowded marketplace.
Crafting Signature Profiles
A focal point of Woodruff’s insight into whiskey revolves around the creation of signature flavor profiles. In his recent reviews, he articulated the complex aroma of Four Roses bourbon:
“The nose is insanely complex, dark and inviting. Scents of sweet oak, ripe red berries, rich baking spice, brown sugar, tobacco, and creamy vanilla intermingle beautifully.”
He emphasizes that a whiskey’s taste is the result of myriad factors, including grain selection, barrel treatment, and even the elements of nature where the whiskey is aged. Occasionally, distilleries age their whiskey in barrels previously used for wine or cognac, imparting unique flavors that distinguish their products from all others.
Behind the scenes at a distillery.
Woodruff has had the opportunity to travel to Scotland to contribute to blending processes for limited-release items, gathering firsthand knowledge of the artistry involved in whiskey production. This behind-the-scenes experience further deepens his understanding and respect for the craftsmanship.
Navigating the Whiskey Landscape
Receiving whiskey to review has transformed into a seamless process for Nate. Rather than reaching out to brands, he finds that bottles are often sent directly to his mailbox, demonstrating the establishment he has achieved in the industry.
“They just kind of show up, and I go, OK, I guess we will review this one today,” he chuckles.
With great opportunity comes the inherent risks of his profession. Reflecting on his twenties, Woodruff recognizes that he was close to the brink of alcoholism. Fortunately, finding a constructive outlet in whiskey appreciation helped him reshape his relationship with alcohol. He now prioritizes his mental health and maintains balance through a healthy lifestyle filled with outdoor activities and fitness.
Nate enjoying life in the wild.
Looking Ahead
With ambitions to launch his very own whiskey brand alongside a podcast, Woodruff is forging his path in the industry. The concept for the podcast is to mix his love for whiskey with adventurous outdoor experiences. For example, an episode could feature skydiving with a whiskey enthusiast, made possible through sponsorship from a whiskey brand.
“If I want to jump out of a plane with another whiskey enthusiast and document it, a whiskey brand may want to pay us to sponsor that portion of the show,” he elaborated.
This creative angle highlights Woodruff’s innovative approach to whiskey marketing and content creation, ensuring there’s no shortage of excitement for his followers.
Conclusion
Nate Woodruff illustrates the profound opportunity found within a seemingly simple passion for whiskey. His journey showcases how a hobby can transcend into a full-fledged career, offering a plethora of experiences ripe for exploration. With his eyes set firmly on the horizon, Woodruff is determined to continue crafting his unique path, indulging in the craft of whiskey while inspiring others to appreciate the art form.
In the words of Woodruff, “I can’t imagine doing anything else in my life except for working with whiskey companies.”
