"Taking the top prize as the World’s Best Bourbon was The Representative, Small Batch Bourbon bottled by Proof and Wood Ventures.”

Dave Schmier, the founder of Proof and Wood in New Canaan, Connecticut, says the practice of independent bottling also has historical roots in the U.S. “Before Prohibition, most of the bottlers along Whiskey Row in Louisville were not distillers—they bought barrels and blended them,” he says.

"However, Proof and Wood just recently broke into a completely different realm that at once is exciting and treacherous."

“Right now, I am loving The FUNK — at 100 proof, it’s not watered down, it’s unaged and doesn’t taste of additives or colorants… Just pure Jamaican funk,”

"Dave Schmier’s latest venture in the spirits world Proof and Wood just released their latest blend of rare whiskeys: Seasons 2021.”

"...this straight bourbon is sourced from only 20 barrels to give off a dry palate filled with cinnamon, banana, and vanilla notes."

"Full-bodied with a touch of Jamaican funk and rye spice, it’s part of the wave of sophisticated, age-driven, carefully-crafted rum that’s coming to the market."

"For a more daily drinker, I’m looking to the Proof & Wood portfolio—it’s chock full of amazing drams at great price points that are lower than they should be given the quality levels.”

"Proof and Wood Ventures, is one of a surging group of middlemen who work in the space between national brands and local craft distillers."

"The mellow kickoff brings notes of sweet vanilla, butterscotch and melon, while the spicy rye and funky pot still flavors hang back until the finish."