Overview: The beverage alcohol industry sees significant movement this week with Stoli returning to U.S. markets following bankruptcy proceedings and Modelo securing a partnership with the NCAA. Supply chain disruptions in Alabama continue to impact operators, while several brands unveil new high-proof releases and portfolio expansions.
The Full Story
Stoli Group USA announced its return to American shelves after reaching a settlement with creditors following Chapter 11 bankruptcy filings in November 2024. A judge converted the filing to Chapter 7 liquidation in January of this year, with the company owing $84 million in debt at the time. The comeback includes Stoli Vodka, Moskovskaya vodka, Rooster Rojo and KAH tequilas, as well as The Irishman and Writers’ Tears Irish whiskeys.
Meanwhile, Constellation Brands inked a deal with the National Collegiate Athletics Association naming Modelo the first official beer of the association. The partnership centers around March Madness, the College World Series, Frozen Four, and other major championships. The collaboration offers exclusive ready-to-drink sponsorship rights for SpikedAde.
Supply shortages in Alabama’s Alcoholic Beverage Control warehouses are leaving restaurants and hotels without beloved brands like Tito’s, Jack Daniel’s, and Jameson. Many operators have reported multiple weeks of missing or incomplete orders and significant losses in sales as a result. Mississippi endured a nearly identical fiasco earlier this year after the state moved to a new distribution warehouse.
Production & Profile
Technical specifications highlight the high-proof nature of several new releases. LALO’s 2026 High Proof is bottled at 48 percent ABV, while Cazcanes Extra Añejo No. 10 Tributo Edition reaches 54 percent ABV. Atheras Spirits introduces Gin East and Gin West alongside Monks Vodka to its existing lineup of amari and liqueurs.
Buzzard’s Roost continues its Cigar Rye series with the third edition available for purchase nationwide. The Louisville, Ky.-based brand released the bottle for a suggested retail price of $84.99. Cazcanes Extra Añejo No. 10 Tributo Edition is bottled at 54 percent ABV, 14 percent higher than the required minimum.
Brand & Industry History
Stoli Group USA first filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in November 2024 before a judge converted it to a Chapter 7 liquidation in January of this year. Atheras Spirits launched in 2024 with amari and liqueurs before expanding into gin and vodka. Cazcanes Tequila is celebrating its 10th anniversary with the high-proof extra añejo release.
What This Means
The Modelo partnership signifies a continued industry push to expand its footprint in the sports space, specifically around March Madness and other major championships. Supply chain issues in control states like Alabama and Mississippi demonstrate the vulnerability of distribution networks when moving to new warehouses.
Consumer Takeaway
New releases offer specific availability windows and pricing structures for collectors and enthusiasts. LALO’s 2026 High Proof is available across 41 states for $74.99, while Cazcanes Extra Añejo No. 10 Tributo Edition is limited to 3,650 bottles online for $499.99. Atheras Spirits products will be available in New York and New Jersey later this year with expansion planned for Connecticut; Washington, D.C.; Maryland; and Illinois in 2027. Buzzard’s Roost Cigar Rye #3 is available onsite, online, and at retailers nationwide for $84.99.
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