In this exclusive interview, Steve Ison, founder of Rebecca Creek Distillery, shares the inspiring story behind building a craft legacy right here in Texas with @stevenpaulmatsumoto . You’ll hear how his passion led to the creation of standout brands like Enchanted Rock Vodka, Texas Ranger Whiskey, and Rebecca Creek Whiskey—and what it takes to bring bold new spirits to life.

If you’re a fan of great vodka or whiskey—or just love a good entrepreneurial story—this behind‑the‑scenes conversation will give you a fresh perspective on what makes these bottles special.

👉 Visit a Juno’s Liquor near you and experience these Texas favorites for yourself.
👉 Subscribe to our channel for more inspiring founder stories, product spotlights, and insider tips from the world of spirits.

#RebeccaCreek #TexasWhiskey #CraftSpirits #VodkaLovers #WhiskeyLovers #JunosLiquor #SmallBatch #BehindTheBottle #DrinkLocal #TexasProud

Juno's Liquor is a veteran owned, boutique package store with locations throughout the DFW Metroplex. We pride ourselves on offering a warm, inviting environment, clean stores and tastings courtesy of our distributors. Our mission is to be the premier boutique liquor store group in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Stop into a store near you to learn why we're different from your average independent liquor store chain. We look forward to serving you.

Visit Our Website: https://junosliquor.com/

Shop our stores:

📍Juno's Liquor South Cooper 7807 S Cooper St, Arlington, TX 76001
📍Juno's Liquor Las Colinas 313 E Las Colinas Blvd, Irving, TX 75039
📍Juno's Liquor Keller Crossing 8653 N Beach St Suite #221, Keller, TX 76244

Opening: 0:00
Meet the Makers: 0:19
Heaven's Door Whiskey Guitar Giveaway: 07:24
Shake, Stir, Sip: 8:05
Behind the Counter: 15:45

Meet the Makers

Join us on a botanical journey to the heart of New Zealand! In this episode of "If You Juno's You Know," we sit down with Rhys Julian, the founder of Strange Nature Gin. Discover the inspiration behind their unique gin creations, learn about the native New Zealand botanicals they use, and hear fascinating stories from their distillery.

Key topics:

• The Story Behind Strange Nature: How did this Kiwi gin brand come to be?
• New Zealand Botanicals: Explore the unique flora used in Strange Nature's gins.
• The Distilling Process: Gain insights into the craft behind creating exceptional gin.
• Tasting Notes: Get a taste of Strange Nature's gin and learn about their flavor profiles.

https://www.strangenaturegin.com/

Don't miss this exciting episode! Subscribe to our channel for more interviews, cocktail recipes, and all things spirits.

Shake, Stir, Sip

In this segment, Rhys introduces us to the Marlborough 75! A down under twist on the classic French 75 cocktail.

Ingredients
• 1-ounce Strange Nature Gin
• .5-ounce Fresh Lemon Juice
• .5-ounce Rose’s Simple Syrup
• Ice
• Your favorite Champagne, Prosecco or Sparkling White Wine
• Lemon for garnish
Tools
• Cocktail Shaker
• Jigger 1 oz/0.5 oz
• Strainer
• Peeler or Paring Knife
• Champagne Flute

In a shaker full of ice combine the Strange Nature Gin, lemon juice and simple syrup and shake vigorously. Like Tom Cruise in the movie Cocktail.
Pour into a champagne flute and top with sparkling wine. Garnish with a lemon twist and toast.

Behind the Counter

Rhys and Steven discuss their mutual challenges navigating the Texas Three Tier System when it comes to selling to bars and restaurants. Off premise accounts are key to Juno's growth strategy. Having strong relationships with distillery partners is an essential element of differentiation.

#IfYouJunosYouKnow #StrangeNatureGin #NewZealandGin #GinPodcast #Botanicals #CocktailRecipes #GinLovers

Juno's Liquor Store has been serving the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex since October 2014. As of December 2022 we are under new ownership, and we're excited to bring you a reinvented Juno's. WE are proud to be Veteran Owned and Operated. Join us as we evolve into the premier boutique wine and spirits retailer throughout the DFW.

Visit Our Website: https://junosliquor.com/

Shop our stores:

7807 S Cooper St, Arlington, TX 76001
313 E Las Colinas Blvd, Irving, TX 75039 (Coming Soon)

If You Juno's You Know was honored to sit down with Warren Koguc, North Texas Market Manager for Heaven's Door Distillery. In this episode we'll introduce you to some amazing whiskeys influenced by the one and only Bob Dylan, and his love of all things Americana.

Meet the Maker

Bob Dylan — a name synonymous with music, poetry, and cultural iconography. But did you know that this legendary artist also has a deep connection to the world of spirits? Through his partnership with Heaven's Door, Dylan has brought his unique vision and passion to the creation of exceptional small batch bourbon.

Dylan's involvement in Heaven's Door is more than just a marketing gimmick. The whiskey's name, logo, and even the bottle design are inspired by his iconic artwork. Each bottle is a collectible piece, showcasing Dylan's artistic flair and the craftsmanship that goes into every batch.

Inspired by Dylan's love of American heritage, Heaven's Door whiskeys are crafted with meticulous attention to detail. From the selection of premium grains to the careful aging process, every step is infused with a sense of authenticity. The result is a collection of spirits that pay homage to the rich traditions of American whiskey-making.

https://www.heavensdoor.com/

We thank Warren Koguc, North Texas Market Manager for Heaven's Door for joining us, and sharing their story.

Shake, Stir, Sip

The Ascension Martini (Makes Two)

Ingredients:
2.0 oz Heaven's Door Ascension Kentucky Straight Bourbon
1.0 oz Dolin Dry Vermouth
0.5 oz Rose's Simple Syrup
1 dash Reagan's Orange bitters
Luxardo Cherries (Optional Garnish)

Barware You'll Need:
Mixing Tin or Glass
Strainer
Martini Glass

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients into a mixing glass with ice. Shake Well. Strain into a martini glass. Garnish with a Luxardo Cherries or Orange twist!

For more recipes from Heaven's Door visit their website at the link below.

https://buy.heavensdoor.com/blogs/cocktail-recipes

Behind the Counter

Warren and Steven discuss the TABC Credit Default List, how some independent stores miss the mark on product mix, and how to balance phase in processes with introducing new brands to your customers.

About Juno's Liquor

Juno's Liquor has been serving the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex since October 2014. We are proud to be Veteran Owned and Operated. Join us on our mission to be the premier boutique wine and spirits retailer throughout the DFW and beyond.

Visit Our Website: https://junosliquor.com/

Shop our stores:

7807 S Cooper St, Arlington, TX 76001
313 E Las Colinas Blvd, Irving, TX 75039 (Coming Soon)