Get an inside look at Hard Truth Distilling Co. on this episode of Neat & Mixed Flight Night as we sit down with Bryan Smith to explore the distillery’s growth, whiskey-making philosophy, and the evolution of Indiana craft bourbon and rye. We sample Hard Truth’s 7-Year Bourbon, 7-Year Wheated Bourbon, and 7-Year Sweet Mash Rye while discussing Bryan’s path from beer and wine into distilling, the rise of Indiana’s craft whiskey scene, and what reaching the seven-year milestone means for the distillery.

We also dive into Hard Truth’s signature sweet mash process, how extended aging impacts flavor development, and the inspiration behind the Mizunara Wheated French Oak Finished Bourbon, the first Barrel Finish Reserve release of 2026. Bryan shares insight into barrel finishing, whiskey maturation, future releases, and the continued expansion of Hard Truth beyond Nashville.