Where Whiskey Meets Wall Street—and the Ready-to-Drink Revolution (S4 E8)

In this episode of Barrel Room Chronicles, host Kerry Moynahan explores two unique sides of the American spirits revolution—one driven by finance, the other by flavor.First, Kerry sits down with Ryan LaValle and Hunter Robillard, of ASM Capital Partners, a venture firm dedicated to fueling the future of American Single Malt whiskey. From Hunter’s early days helping his father create a maple-infused whiskey brand to Ryan’s transition from Wall Street to whiskey investment, this duo is helping bridge the gap between distilleries and capital. They discuss how whiskey becomes an asset class, what makes American Single Malt such a compelling category, and how ASM is empowering distilleries to grow through thoughtful investment and strategic support.Then, in Tavern Talk Kerry speaks with Neal Cohen, co-founder of Tip Top Proper Cocktails. From their humble beginnings inspired by the music festival circuit to landing on Delta Airlines, Tip Top is redefining what ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails can be. Neal walks us through their whiskey-forward offerings—from their high-rye bourbon Old Fashioned to their award-winning Penicillin—and shares how they’ve built a brand rooted in balance, convenience, and craft.Whether you’re a whiskey enthusiast, an investor, or just someone curious about the next frontier in spirits, this episode pours you a full measure of insight and inspiration.