Actor Ian Somerhalder is probably best known for his roles in Lost and Vampire Diaries, but he’s also a whiskey enthusiast and brand founder.

He co-founded Brother’s Bond Bourbon with his friend and former on-screen brother Paul Wesley in 2020 and the duo have have continued to grow the brand. Somerhalder is also involved in a number of causes and foundations, ranging from environmental to animal welfare.

Somerhalder also will be a special guest at Fred Minnick Live tonight in New Orleans.

Here, we ask Somerhalder five questions about his love of whiskey. (Next Friday: Five Questions with Paul Wesley.)

What was your gateway whiskey—the one that made you love whiskey?

My gateway whiskey was probably Jim Beam, for sure. But what I remember of it wasn’t just about the spirit—it was the connection. Growing up in the South, whiskey has always been part of the culture. I learned early on that bourbon could be a part of any story, no matter where you came from or how much money you had. It brings people together across all walks of life. Sharing a bottle with friends and family, talking late into the night sharing stories and dreams—that made me fall in love with everything whiskey represents: good times, deep conversations, and that sense of bonding. That’s what we want to bring to people’s lives with Brother’s Bond. 

What is your favorite part of the selection and blending process?

I love the craftsmanship of it. Every decision we make has a huge impact on the final product. You start with the best ingredients, choose the right barrels, and then you track them over the years, watching them develop and making those subtle adjustments when needed. I get obsessive about finding that perfect balance and nuance, so barrel selection is everything—it’s where the heart and soul of the whiskey come alive. Each blend tells the story of everything that went into making it, and I truly believe you can taste that quality and passion in every sip. When Paul and I are blending and we finally hit that perfect combination, where the flavors are layered, complex yet smooth, there’s this incredible moment of satisfaction. It’s like, ‘Wow. Yes. This is it.’

What trends do you believe are forthcoming in the spirits industry? 

I think we’re going to see more focus on sustainability, which is something we’re really passionate about at Brother’s Bond. People are really starting to care about how their spirits are made and the environmental footprint left behind. Transparency in sourcing and regenerative practices are going to play a huge role in the future of whiskey. Also, the rise of unique grains and flavor profiles—people want to explore and try something new. At Brother’s Bond we believe with steadfast conviction that by inspiring whiskey companies around us to start using regenerative practices, we can provide incredible quality, build a robust carbon-capture food/beverage economy, and build communities.

Other than your own brand, do you currently have a favorite bourbon, whiskey, or other spirit? 

I have a ton of respect for brands that are innovating and pushing boundaries. I love trying other brands and exploring new flavors, especially when I’m traveling. But I have received some incredible gifts from my dear brother Fred Minnick, and have become obsessed with paying attention to older Bourbons of the past. How they made these whiskeys, and the proof points in which they made them. I finished an incredible bottle of Old Crow from about 1961 that was like sipping on an oaky fruit basket on a warm summer afternoon. I also finished a bottle of Ancient Age 6 year at 86 proof that was absolutely delicious.

Neat, rocks, or cocktail?

It depends on the occasion! I love drinking bourbon neat—that’s how you can really experience its full complexity. Especially our Whiskey. On a warm night though, I’ll go for rocks, especially with our Bottled in Bond or our Regenerative Bourbon. There’s something about the slight dilution that opens up the flavors and makes it perfect for a laid-back evening. But regardless of how you choose to drink it, there’s just something about this true American spirit, that in my own personal opinion, outshines every other type of spirit in the world, because of its dynamic flavor, unique mashbills, and deep tradition even in a modern world.

Read more: Five Questions with Two Stacks Whiskey’s Shane McCarthy

About Five Questions

Five Questions is a series on Fredminnick.com in which professionals in the whiskey business offer insights into trends, favorite spirits and more.