Taste Radio

In this episode, we feature an interview with Shilen Patel, the co-founder of Distill Ventures (DV), a U.K.-based venture capital firm and accelerator that invests in disruptive distilled spirit companies and non-alcoholic beverage brands.  Launched in 2013, DV is backed by Diageo, the global spirits conglomerate whose portfolio includes iconic brands like Johnnie Walker and Bulleit Bourbon. Over the past six years, DV has invested approximately $80 million in over 15 small and early-stage brands, including Westward American Single Malt whiskey and non-alcoholic spirit Seedlip.  As part of our conversation, Patel discussed DV’s mission and relationship with Diageo, why he’s bullish about the future of low- and no-alcohol adult beverages, and why quality is of paramount importance to DV’s investment philosophy. Show notes: 1:15: An Ode To Press Your Luck, Kelp Jerky, #GGMU -- The episode’s hosts convened for a conversation about Ray’s former dream job (note: he’s living the current one), why Jay-Z might be at