In today's episode, I got to catch up with recent AB Tech graduate Ryan Schreder, who just completed a whirlwind tour of craft distilleries and breweries in Pennsylvania, all while helping out his 93-year-old grandfather. Ryan and I tasted through a plethora of bottles he brought back, including unique rye whiskies, innovative cask-finished bourbons, and a standout unaged apple brandy. Our conversation dove deep into Pennsylvania’s rye revival, the craft spirit scene, and his own whiskey-making journey at AB Tech. We also looked ahead to his upcoming sensory adventure in Ireland, where Ryan plans to tour iconic distilleries and hunt down rare single malts (with oats, of course) to expand his already impressive palate.

Ryan graduated from AB Tech in May 2025 with a passion for craft distillation, whiskey, and lifelong learning. Originally from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, he brings a family history rich in whiskey lore, a home collection of rare decanters, and a keen curiosity about historic and emerging trends in the industry. His hands-on experience at AB Tech includes producing an Irish-style whiskey aged on maple wood, using homemade kiln-dried chunks from a tree in his own backyard. Ryan is always on the lookout for innovative flavors and is dedicated to exploring the global craft spirit community.

“My love and passion for distillates has led me not only to become a lifelong learner and seek the associate’s degree here at AB Tech, but also to find some pretty rare—well, pretty amazing—distilleries in Pennsylvania.” ~Ryan Schreder

Today on Consuming the Craft:

• Pennsylvania is experiencing a craft spirits renaissance, particularly with rye whiskey, and features innovative distilleries such as Hidden Still Spirits (David E.), Stoll & Wolf, and Bluebird Distilling.
• Ryan discovered whiskey aged in unique casks, including those made from Umburana (a South American wood) and rum barrels, which added distinct cinnamon and sweet notes.
• Stoll & Wolf’s unaged apple brandy at 107 proof was a standout for its creamy mouthfeel, delicate sweetness, and fresh apple aroma, despite being a clear spirit.
• Lancaster Brewing Company, with over 30 years of brewing experience, has recently expanded its repertoire to include distilling, featuring a straight bourbon whiskey finished in its own Wee Heavy ale barrels.
• Many Pennsylvania craft distillers also provide top-notch food service, contributing to a full sensory experience.
• Ryan’s capstone project involved crafting a traditional Irish whiskey with an innovative maple wood finish using kiln-dried, home-charred local maple.
• Upcoming plans for Ryan include a distillery-focused trip to Ireland, with visits to notable locations such as Middleton, Pierce Lyons (located in a historic church), and Kilbeggan, with a focus on tracking down oat-infused single malts, including Drumshanbo.
• The importance of glassware in tasting spirits was discussed, as different shapes bring out subtle variations in aroma and flavor.

Resources & Distilleries Mentioned:

• Hidden Still Spirits (David E.), Hershey, PA
• Stoll & Wolf Distillery, Pennsylvania
• Lancaster Brewing Company, Lancaster, PA
• Bluebird Distilling, Phoenixville, PA
• Drumshanbo Single Malt (Ireland)
• Laird’s Straight Apple Brandy, bottled in bond (NJ/VA)
• Middleton Distillery, Pierce Lyons, Kilbeggan (Ireland)
• McConnell Farms (supporter of AB Tech)

This episode is brought to you by…

McConnell Farms - Taste the Way You Remember. Enjoy homemade ciders and ice cream made from only the best produce on the market. Visit the McConnell Farms website to learn more about our seasonal inventory and the delicious creations you can make with our homegrown produce.

Consuming the Craft

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