This memoir and manifesto–at turns thoughtful, raw, and even incendiary–offers an insider’s glimpse into the spirits industry, from the country’s foremost expert on sustainable, responsibly-sourced, and grower-produced spirits.

Thaddeus Vogler is one of the most important people in the beverage industry today: a man on a mission to bring -grower spirits—spirits with provenance, made in the traditional way by individuals rather than by mass conglomerates–to the public eye. By the Smoke and the Smell is Vogler’s remarkable debut. This book will completely change the way Americans think about and buy spirits. Alternately humorous and heartfelt, Vogler’s memoir will inspire readers not only to look at their liquor bottle’s labels more closely, but also to seek out wonderful and wonderfully made products.