281. Up a Sespe Creek in Oxnard

What We're Drinking with Dan Dunn

Oxnard, California—a charming, sun-drenched coastal town better known for its strawberries and surf than for spirits. But that’s changing, thanks to the arrival of one of the whisky world’s most celebrated figures. Enter John Campbell, a man who spent over 25 years crafting single malt masterpieces at the iconic Laphroaig Distillery on Islay, Scotland. Now? He’s trading briny peat and windswept moors for California sunshine and a bold new challenge at Sespe Creek Distillery.Campbell’s name is synonymous with whisky excellence, a guy who’s had his fingerprints all over some of the most beloved Scotch whiskies on the planet. And now, he’s bringing that same legendary skillset to a scrappy upstart distillery nestled in the agricultural heart of Ventura County. It’s a move that’s equal parts unexpected and inspired, and you better believe Dan had to see it for himself. In this episode, we’ll dive deep into John’s incredible journey—how a kid from Islay grew up surrounded by whisky lore, mastered the craft at one of Scotland’s most revered distilleries, and ended up transforming spirits in a sleepy California beach town. Plus, we’ll get an inside look at what he’s working on now at Sespe Creek and what’s next for this whisky pioneer turned SoCal trailblazer.

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