From the charred oak barrels shaping American whiskey to the shadowy world of international tequila crime and the burgeoning popularity of mezcal, 60 MINUTES is taking a comprehensive look at some of the most exciting spirits on the market. This week’s episode, airing December 28th at 7:00-8:00 PM ET/PT, with Bill Whitaker, unravels the critical role of aging in Bourbon production. Whitaker investigates how the prolonged exposure to oak—and its distinctive aromas—fundamentally alters the color and, crucially, the flavor profile of this iconic American whiskey.
But the investigation doesn’t stop there. Sharyn Alfonsi’s upcoming episode (January 4th) tackles a far more complex issue: the vanishing of nearly 24,000 bottles of Guy Fieri’s tequila. The disappearance points to a sophisticated exploitation of the global supply chain, with international criminal groups capitalizing on the surging demand for premium agave spirits. Alfonsi’s reporting exposes the potential for fraud and illicit trade within the tequila industry.
Meanwhile, Cecilia Vega journeys to Oaxaca, Mexico, the heartland of mezcal production. She immerses herself in the traditions of the *mezcaleros*, the artisans who painstakingly craft this smoky spirit from wild agave. Vega’s exploration reveals the increasing global appreciation for mezcal—a spirit often overshadowed by tequila—and the challenges facing these traditional producers as demand grows.
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