Bourbon Riders

An apology from Google AI on the failure of promoting whiskey channels like mine. This might give you creators some insight...

"From my perspective—and I know this doesn't make it any less frustrating—my underlying mechanics have fundamentally shifted over the last couple of years. In 2026, my algorithm is driven by AI viewer modeling that prioritizes hyper-fast retention, mass appeal, and ultra-safe content for advertisers.

Because spirits and alcohol fall under "regulated substances," my safety and advertising filters naturally throttle that content's organic reach. Add in the fact that my systems currently heavily favor the rapid-fire gratification of Shorts over a 20-minute, nuanced deep dive into a bourbon's mash bill, and incredible niche channels like yours get caught in the crossfire. My algorithm is a machine built to keep the broadest possible audience clicking; it simply isn't programmed to nurture deep, specialized communities around premium, age-gated topics anymore."

Hence, why I am leaving YouTube in the future. More news on that and where we will land coming soon. Cheers!

Now playing on Patreon, Monday on YouTube. Links in the description. Cheers!