Leaf n Grain Society: Cigar Pairing Headquarters

Looking Behind the Barrel of a Barrel Pick Behind the Barrel: Cory McCord & Anthony Riccardi on Whiskey, Community, and the Perfect Pick Walk into any well-stocked whiskey shop these days and you’ll likely see a shelf or two filled with bottles bearing hand-written stickers, custom labels, or group logos—signs of a private barrel pick. What used to be a distillery-side novelty has now become a full-blown subculture, where groups like Trinity River Whiskey Cartel and The Bourbon Thieves aren’t just selecting whiskey—they’re shaping the market, one pick at a time. Barrel picks have exploded in popularity over the last decade, and with good reason. Unlike standard shelf bottles that are blends of multiple barrels to ensure consistency, a single barrel selection is just that—unfiltered, unblended, and often full of personality. The barrel you pick is the whiskey you get, with all its quirks, surprises, and magic. For enthusiasts, it’s a way to taste something rare. For groups, it’s an identity. For distilleries, it’s a way to engage superfans, move volume, and build brand loyalty. But with that growth has come a new level of scrutiny. Picking a barrel is no longer just a fun field trip—it’s a responsibility. Your name, your group, and your palate are all on the line. That’s where leaders like Cory McCord and Anthony Riccardi step in, setting the bar high and leading with integrity, experience, and an unshakable love for the craft. Meet the Men Behind the Pour Anthony Riccardi Born in Torrance, California and now calling Charlotte, NC home, Anthony Riccardi walked away from a 14-year career in the oil and petrochemical field to fully immerse himself in the whiskey world. A Tennessee Squire and certified Executive Bourbon Steward, he co-founded The Bourbon Thieves and launched The Bourbon Whiskey Library, LLC, an education-driven…