Episode

#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
Description
Richard Betts (@yobetts) served as the wine director at The Little Nell in Aspen from 2000 to 2008. Much more interesting to me, Richard passed the Court of Master Sommeliers' Masters Exam on his first attempt, becoming the ninth person in history ever to do so. I first met Richard through investing wunderkind Chris Sacca, and we immediately hit it off. Richard can help you train your senses for anything, including wine, whiskey, his current love of mezcal, and far beyond. He's also done a lot of wild experiments, got a lot of tattoos, almost been shot in Mexico, and developed an incredible ability to simplify the complex. We get along. In this conversation, we talk about nearly everything, ranging from the value of quitting to tricks of the trade, travel tips (he's traveling 300+ days per year), and "starter" wines. We also drink a boat-load of whiskey, me tasting and Richard teaching. The pictures below show a sample. Side note and cool rule of thumb: did you know it's spelled "whiskey" when from countries that have "e" in their names (e.g. America) but "whisky" when from countries that don't have an "e" in their names (e.g. Scotland, Japan)? Richard taught me that. Last but not least, Richard is the author of a brand-new book, “The Essential Scratch & Sniff Guide to Becoming a Whiskey Know-It-All,” which is sitting on my kitchen table with whiskey stains all over it. It distils (see what I did there?) a couple of lifetimes worth of study down to 24 pages...then makes them smell good. Definitely check it out. At the very least, it gives you a bunch of rules of thumb (like the whiskey vs. whisky trick), so you can impress your friends and not look like a dumb-ass at the bar. Sweet! Less dumb-ass and more smart-ass is always good. Get 'er done. Show notes and links for this episode can be found at www.fourhourworkweek.com/podcast. This podcast is brought to you by MeUndies. If I’m not going commando, then I’m wearing MeUndies. I’ve been testing out pairs for about 3 or 4 months now, and, as a result, I've thrown out my other underwear. They look good, feel good, have options for men and women, and their materials are 2x softer than cotton, as evaluated using the Kawabata method. Not only does MeUndies offer underwear, but they also have incredible lounge pants. I wear them when I record the podcast, and when I’m out and about grabbing coffee. If by some chance you’re not happy with the first pair you try on, they’ll refund your purchase completely. Check out MeUndies.com/Tim to see my current faves (some are awesomely ridiculous) and, while you’re at it, don’t miss lots of hot ladies wearing MeUndies. This podcast is also brought to you by Athletic Greens. I get asked all the time, “If you could only use one supplement, what would it be?” My answer is, inevitably, Athletic Greens. It is my all-in-one nutritional insurance. I recommended it in The 4-Hour Body and did not get paid to do so. Get 50% off your order at Athletic Greens.com/Tim.***If you enjoy the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It takes less than 60 seconds, and it really makes a difference in helping to convince hard-to-get guests. I also love reading the reviews!For show notes and past guests, please visit tim.blog/podcast.Sign up for Tim’s email newsletter (“5-Bullet Friday”) at tim.blog/friday.For transcripts of episodes, go to tim.blog/transcripts.Interested in sponsoring the podcast? Visit tim.blog/sponsor and fill out the form.Discover Tim’s books: tim.blog/books.Follow Tim:Twitter: twitter.com/tferriss Instagram: instagram.com/timferrissFacebook: facebook.com/timferriss YouTube: youtube.com/timferrissPast guests on The Tim Ferriss Show include Jerry Seinfeld, Hugh Jackman, Dr. Jane Goodall, LeBron James, Kevin Hart, Doris Kearns Goodwin, Jamie Foxx, Matthew McConaughey, Esther Perel, Elizabeth Gilbert, Terry Crews, Sia, Yuval Noah Harari, Malcolm Gladwell, Madeleine Albright, Cheryl Strayed, Jim Collins, Mary Karr, Maria Popova, Sam Harris, Michael Phelps, Bob Iger, Edward Norton, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Neil Strauss, Ken Burns, Maria Sharapova, Marc Andreessen, Neil Gaiman, Neil de Grasse Tyson, Jocko Willink, Daniel Ek, Kelly Slater, Dr. Peter Attia, Seth Godin, Howard Marks, Dr. Brené Brown, Eric Schmidt, Michael Lewis, Joe Gebbia, Michael Pollan, Dr. Jordan Peterson, Vince Vaughn, Brian Koppelman, Ramit Sethi, Dax Shepard, Tony Robbins, Jim Dethmer, Dan Harris, Ray Dalio, Naval Ravikant, Vitalik Buterin, Elizabeth Lesser, Amanda Palmer, Katie Haun, Sir Richard Branson, Chuck Palahniuk, Arianna Huffington, Reid Hoffman, Bill Burr, Whitney Cummings, Rick Rubin, Dr. Vivek Murthy, Darren Aronofsky, and many more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Chapters
Tim Ferriss introduces Five Bullet Friday, a weekly email newsletter that provides short and action-packed recommendations on a variety of topics from all over the world.
00:00 - 01:25 (01:25)
Summary
Tim Ferriss introduces Five Bullet Friday, a weekly email newsletter that provides short and action-packed recommendations on a variety of topics from all over the world. It's free and offers insights on apps, books, documentaries, gadgets, new self-experiments, supplements, tricks, and hacks.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
In this podcast, Tim Ferriss deconstructs world-class performers to understand their habits and strategies.
01:25 - 04:32 (03:07)
Summary
In this podcast, Tim Ferriss deconstructs world-class performers to understand their habits and strategies. There is also a special offer from Athletic Greens for their all-in-one formula with added vitamin D supplement and free travel packs.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
Tim Ferriss shares his experiences learning about wine tasting from a Sommelier and how those lessons applied to other areas of his life, including success in business and learning new skills.
04:32 - 10:35 (06:03)
Summary
Tim Ferriss shares his experiences learning about wine tasting from a Sommelier and how those lessons applied to other areas of his life, including success in business and learning new skills.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The speaker talks about transitioning from science to law and how important it is to speak the language of both communities to perform well.
10:35 - 12:57 (02:22)
Summary
The speaker talks about transitioning from science to law and how important it is to speak the language of both communities to perform well.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The speaker shares his experience of discovering his passion for food and wine and how he quit his previous career path of law and science.
12:57 - 18:19 (05:22)
Summary
The speaker shares his experience of discovering his passion for food and wine and how he quit his previous career path of law and science. He talks about his conversation with Bobby Stuckey, who was also getting into food and wine at that time.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
A hotel chef's life involves long shifts, early morning wake-ups, and the ability to cook for a large number of people.
18:19 - 22:16 (03:56)
Summary
A hotel chef's life involves long shifts, early morning wake-ups, and the ability to cook for a large number of people. It requires dedication and skill to prepare meals for guests at any time of the day, from carving ice into a swan to pedaling in the snow to cook breakfast.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The decision to attend culinary school or not depends on the individual's goals and priorities.
22:16 - 24:44 (02:28)
Summary
The decision to attend culinary school or not depends on the individual's goals and priorities. While culinary school can provide a structured environment for learning, tasting and reading on your own can also help develop your culinary skills.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
Richard Betts talks about his experience working in a restaurant, his love for wine, and his expertise in pairing wines with food.
24:44 - 26:55 (02:11)
Summary
Richard Betts talks about his experience working in a restaurant, his love for wine, and his expertise in pairing wines with food.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The concept of terroir, a French word describing the unique characteristics of the place where wine is produced, is what gives wine its intellectual value.
26:55 - 30:04 (03:09)
Summary
The concept of terroir, a French word describing the unique characteristics of the place where wine is produced, is what gives wine its intellectual value. A glass of wine should reflect the place from which it came, embodying the distinct qualities of its region.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
This podcast episode discusses the journey of getting certified in wine, which involves building a plan to acquire knowledge and taking exams at different levels, including an introductory exam and a certified exam.
30:04 - 31:49 (01:44)
Summary
This podcast episode discusses the journey of getting certified in wine, which involves building a plan to acquire knowledge and taking exams at different levels, including an introductory exam and a certified exam.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
In this episode, the speaker discusses the certified exam for wine and champagne service that includes elements such as old decanting wine service.
31:49 - 34:08 (02:18)
Summary
In this episode, the speaker discusses the certified exam for wine and champagne service that includes elements such as old decanting wine service. However, the exam also includes memorizing useless elements such as the ring gauges of cigar sizes.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The speaker discusses the importance of gaining experience in a restaurant kitchen, working for chef owners, and being responsible for budgets, as well as the myopia that can come with studying for culinary exams.
34:08 - 36:54 (02:46)
Summary
The speaker discusses the importance of gaining experience in a restaurant kitchen, working for chef owners, and being responsible for budgets, as well as the myopia that can come with studying for culinary exams.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The speaker talks about selling expensive products and how they learned to do so, including considering return policies and how the products would age.
36:54 - 40:18 (03:24)
Summary
The speaker talks about selling expensive products and how they learned to do so, including considering return policies and how the products would age.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
From sleepless nights to endless reading and tasting, the journey of becoming a sommelier and wine buyer involves dedication and perseverance.
40:18 - 44:10 (03:52)
Summary
From sleepless nights to endless reading and tasting, the journey of becoming a sommelier and wine buyer involves dedication and perseverance.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
In wine tasting, visual cues like legs or teardrops can indicate a wine's alcohol levels and give clues to its winemaking style, which can help with selection and enjoyment.
44:10 - 46:58 (02:47)
Summary
In wine tasting, visual cues like legs or teardrops can indicate a wine's alcohol levels and give clues to its winemaking style, which can help with selection and enjoyment.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
Learn how to identify the style of wine based on its color and how to properly taste wine by swishing instead of immediately sipping.
46:58 - 52:27 (05:28)
Summary
Learn how to identify the style of wine based on its color and how to properly taste wine by swishing instead of immediately sipping. Also, discover how climate affects the ripeness of the fruit and alcohol content of the wine.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The speaker discusses the differences in taste between wines from various regions, such as California Chardonnay and German Riesling, as well as the balance between residual sugar and oak characteristics.
52:27 - 56:58 (04:31)
Summary
The speaker discusses the differences in taste between wines from various regions, such as California Chardonnay and German Riesling, as well as the balance between residual sugar and oak characteristics.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
A discussion on common misconceptions and old wives' tales surrounding wine.
56:58 - 1:00:56 (03:57)
Summary
A discussion on common misconceptions and old wives' tales surrounding wine.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
Learn about affordable wine options that are produced by real people and avoid mechanically grown grapes.
1:00:56 - 1:04:09 (03:13)
Summary
Learn about affordable wine options that are produced by real people and avoid mechanically grown grapes. The discussion also touches on the importance of not judging wine by its color.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
This podcast episode talks about making wine accessible by creating a scratch and sniff wine book and using beakers to serve wine for those interested, alongside a discussion on the origins of wine and other alcoholic beverages.
1:04:09 - 1:08:38 (04:28)
Summary
This podcast episode talks about making wine accessible by creating a scratch and sniff wine book and using beakers to serve wine for those interested, alongside a discussion on the origins of wine and other alcoholic beverages.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
In this episode, the speaker explains the basics of whiskey, including the cereal grains used to make it, and the differences in spelling between countries.
1:08:38 - 1:15:43 (07:05)
Summary
In this episode, the speaker explains the basics of whiskey, including the cereal grains used to make it, and the differences in spelling between countries.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The speaker interrupts to take photos and share links related to the podcast episode, which includes a story about an installation art piece that ends with the dispersal of seeds, relying on the wind.
1:15:43 - 1:19:59 (04:16)
Summary
The speaker interrupts to take photos and share links related to the podcast episode, which includes a story about an installation art piece that ends with the dispersal of seeds, relying on the wind. The speaker also professes their love for Carla Rzuski.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
A warning is given about taking a hard pull of high percentage spirits as it can cause a burning sensation.
1:19:59 - 1:23:04 (03:04)
Summary
A warning is given about taking a hard pull of high percentage spirits as it can cause a burning sensation. The speaker explains that a 100% spirit has a paint or turpentine-like bite due to prolonged aging in a barrel.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The evolution of whiskey making in Ireland and Scotland, the competition for the royal favor, and the process of distillation leading to the creation of different types of whiskey.
1:23:04 - 1:27:06 (04:01)
Summary
The evolution of whiskey making in Ireland and Scotland, the competition for the royal favor, and the process of distillation leading to the creation of different types of whiskey.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The speaker ponders whether the nose is malleable, like muscle mass or height, or fixed from birth, while describing the taste of Oolong and Mugicha teas.
1:27:06 - 1:31:31 (04:24)
Summary
The speaker ponders whether the nose is malleable, like muscle mass or height, or fixed from birth, while describing the taste of Oolong and Mugicha teas. They also note that the Mugicha has a lower alcohol proof than the rye they previously poured.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The speaker discusses how scents can bring back memories and shares personal memories associated with particular scents, such as the scent of cedar and sandalwood at an old temple in a whiskey temple.
1:31:31 - 1:33:59 (02:28)
Summary
The speaker discusses how scents can bring back memories and shares personal memories associated with particular scents, such as the scent of cedar and sandalwood at an old temple in a whiskey temple.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The speaker describes the process of making sherries and Madeira whiskies, as well as the taste of the whiskies that come from those barrels.
1:33:59 - 1:36:32 (02:32)
Summary
The speaker describes the process of making sherries and Madeira whiskies, as well as the taste of the whiskies that come from those barrels.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The speaker advocates for treating whiskey tasting as a learning session, and suggests that one can use ginger ale to mix with Jameson to get a different flavor.
1:36:32 - 1:39:01 (02:29)
Summary
The speaker advocates for treating whiskey tasting as a learning session, and suggests that one can use ginger ale to mix with Jameson to get a different flavor.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The speaker describes the difference between Jack Daniel's and Bullet Bourbon in terms of volume, texture, and flavor, ultimately preferring Bullet Bourbon due to its livelier taste and higher rye content.
1:39:01 - 1:41:59 (02:58)
Summary
The speaker describes the difference between Jack Daniel's and Bullet Bourbon in terms of volume, texture, and flavor, ultimately preferring Bullet Bourbon due to its livelier taste and higher rye content.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The Alto Rye Whiskey has high tone notes of flowers, spice, and turpentine that you can physically feel in your nose when you smell it, while the rye gives it a bite that complements the other flavors.
1:41:59 - 1:45:47 (03:47)
Summary
The Alto Rye Whiskey has high tone notes of flowers, spice, and turpentine that you can physically feel in your nose when you smell it, while the rye gives it a bite that complements the other flavors. However, it is not necessary to have a refined sense of smell to enjoy the drink.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The speaker gives a brief review of four drinks tasted and discusses how the appearance of objects, such as the gold in the glass decoration, can affect one's perception of it.
1:45:47 - 1:48:11 (02:24)
Summary
The speaker gives a brief review of four drinks tasted and discusses how the appearance of objects, such as the gold in the glass decoration, can affect one's perception of it. They also mention a book on aesthetics written by a Japanese author.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The alcohol content, characteristics and flavors of whiskey can be affected by factors such as age, humidity and weather conditions in the aging warehouse.
1:48:11 - 1:53:02 (04:51)
Summary
The alcohol content, characteristics and flavors of whiskey can be affected by factors such as age, humidity and weather conditions in the aging warehouse. Despite the belief that older whiskey is always better, snobbery should be avoided when choosing whiskey.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The history and evolution of tequila and mezcal, including the transition from mezcal to tequila and the factors that have contributed to the transformation of tequila over the years.
1:53:02 - 1:55:43 (02:41)
Summary
The history and evolution of tequila and mezcal, including the transition from mezcal to tequila and the factors that have contributed to the transformation of tequila over the years.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The founder of Astral Mezcal shares his experience with the intellectual value that mezcal embodies, including the importance of its process, place, and people, and the history of its production before 1860.
1:55:44 - 2:01:05 (05:21)
Summary
The founder of Astral Mezcal shares his experience with the intellectual value that mezcal embodies, including the importance of its process, place, and people, and the history of its production before 1860.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The guest speaks about the notion of success and shares that her parents are her role models.
2:01:05 - 2:05:24 (04:19)
Summary
The guest speaks about the notion of success and shares that her parents are her role models. She also mentions that anyone who makes their own way can also be considered successful.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
Richard discusses how material wealth does not equate to happiness and how, regardless of one's circumstances, self-love is key to finding true happiness.
2:05:25 - 2:10:04 (04:38)
Summary
Richard discusses how material wealth does not equate to happiness and how, regardless of one's circumstances, self-love is key to finding true happiness.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The speaker talks about their rigorous routine before taking a rest day followed by a mention of their acquaintance, Sebastian, who teaches them about tea and the importance of paying attention to the quality of the meat they consume.
2:10:04 - 2:13:41 (03:37)
Summary
The speaker talks about their rigorous routine before taking a rest day followed by a mention of their acquaintance, Sebastian, who teaches them about tea and the importance of paying attention to the quality of the meat they consume.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
A craftsman admits to only being able to drink mezcal, possibly because of his prior experience with other alcoholic beverages.
2:13:42 - 2:16:30 (02:48)
Summary
A craftsman admits to only being able to drink mezcal, possibly because of his prior experience with other alcoholic beverages. The historical significance of mezcal is noted, and how it still remains taboo or forbidden to some extent.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The speaker discusses the significance of giving back to the community with loved ones and how it can facilitate quality time and meaningful experiences.
2:16:30 - 2:19:23 (02:52)
Summary
The speaker discusses the significance of giving back to the community with loved ones and how it can facilitate quality time and meaningful experiences.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The speaker shares how running has helped them find candor and honesty with oneself.
2:19:23 - 2:24:51 (05:28)
Summary
The speaker shares how running has helped them find candor and honesty with oneself. Starting with trail marathons, they eventually moved on to 50-mile races, and found that being hard on oneself is important in order to be honest with oneself.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
In this podcast, the speaker shares his story of moving from partying like a rockstar towards making wine in Australia, France and Napa Valley, while also finding balance in his life by focusing on his Master's exam.
2:24:52 - 2:28:32 (03:40)
Summary
In this podcast, the speaker shares his story of moving from partying like a rockstar towards making wine in Australia, France and Napa Valley, while also finding balance in his life by focusing on his Master's exam.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The speaker discusses his need to hit the wall and find the guardrails in his life through substances, grades, and significant others, and suggests that volunteering may have helped him develop self-awareness earlier in life.
2:28:32 - 2:32:08 (03:35)
Summary
The speaker discusses his need to hit the wall and find the guardrails in his life through substances, grades, and significant others, and suggests that volunteering may have helped him develop self-awareness earlier in life. He also expresses regret over the amount of money he spent on a liberal arts education.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
In this episode, the host discusses the new book "The Central Scratch and Sniff Guide to Becoming a Whiskey Know-It-All" by Crystal English Saka and Wendy McNaughton, which aims to make whiskey less intimidating and help readers make sense of labels.
2:32:08 - 2:37:04 (04:56)
Summary
In this episode, the host discusses the new book "The Central Scratch and Sniff Guide to Becoming a Whiskey Know-It-All" by Crystal English Saka and Wendy McNaughton, which aims to make whiskey less intimidating and help readers make sense of labels.
Episode#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts
PodcastThe Tim Ferriss Show
The speaker discusses the importance of acknowledging areas of improvement in oneself and candidly critiquing others in a respectful manner.
2:37:04 - 2:38:46 (01:42)
Summary
The speaker discusses the importance of acknowledging areas of improvement in oneself and candidly critiquing others in a respectful manner.