Author: Aiden

The world of bourbon is constantly evolving, driven by innovation and a desire for new experiences. While established giants continue to refine their classic recipes, smaller distilleries are boldly experimenting, pushing the boundaries of what bourbon can be. Currently generating considerable buzz, Starlight Distillery’s latest release, the Honey Reserve Bourbon – Batch 0001, is causing quite a stir in the bourbon world, and for good reason. This small-batch bourbon, infused with a unique aging process involving honey, is generating excitement and, as one reviewer puts it, a “sticky situation” for traditional bourbon drinkers. For years, the dominant flavor profile in…

Starlight Distillery’s latest release, the Honey Reserve Bourbon (Batch #0001), is generating buzz within the bourbon community. This limited-edition offering, priced at $65 for a 750mL bottle, represents a bold move by the Indiana-based distillery. But is it a worthy addition to the ever-expanding world of limited-edition bourbon? A Honey-Forward Experiment Starlight Distillery’s focus on honey-forward flavors is immediately apparent. Production began in July 2025, utilizing previously used barrels that held honey produced directly on their farm. This isn’t a casual experiment; the distillery has been exploring honey finishes, and they’re clearly confident in their ability to deliver a distinctive…

The festive season’s afterglow is revealing a significant shift in the South African spirits market: a burgeoning no-alcohol category. Driven by global trends and a growing consumer preference for mindful consumption, the demand for low- and no-alcohol beverages is rapidly expanding. A Global Trend with Local Roots The rise of no-alcohol products isn’t confined to the UK, where the market is experiencing substantial growth. This trend is fueled by heightened health consciousness and evolving attitudes towards alcohol. South Africa is now witnessing a parallel expansion, with retailers responding to increased consumer interest. Key Trends Shaping the Category Several key trends…

Greg Sherwood, the respected wine critic, recently declared Dry January a “awkward moment” for the wine world, and it’s a sentiment that deserves serious consideration. Sherwood’s observation—that the month of abstinence is disrupting a period of predictable growth—highlights a crucial shift occurring within the industry, one that many in the sector, and consumers, may have been overlooking. It’s a quiet, persistent signal that the relentless pursuit of “hot” trends has, perhaps, run its course. Sherwood’s argument centers on the fact that the wine market has, until recently, been fueled by consistent expansion and the seductive allure of chasing trends. For…

Get ready to swig! The Miami Rum Congress is back, and the 2026 agenda is packed with discussions that will undoubtedly shape the future of this beloved spirit. This year’s event promises to be a pivotal moment for rum enthusiasts and industry professionals alike, solidifying its position as a premier gathering for anyone passionate about the world’s most complex and diverse spirit. The full schedule of events is available here: While specifics are still being finalized, early announcements highlight a continued focus on key areas like sustainability, innovation in production techniques, and the exploration of emerging rum markets. The 2026…

Whisky enthusiasts, prepare for a delightful resurgence! The highly coveted Glenlivet Small Batch Collection is making a triumphant return, and the initial reaction is nothing short of ecstatic. After a period of absence, the return of this spirited expression is being greeted with widespread excitement across the industry, fueled by a renewed appreciation for Glenlivet’s bolder, more characterful offerings. The news has ignited a fervent desire amongst collectors and drinkers alike, signaling a vibrant comeback for a beloved brand. A Response to Insane Demand The decision to bring back the Glenlivet Small Batch Collection wasn’t taken lightly. Following a period…

Glenlivet, renowned for its Speyside heritage and consistently high-quality single malts, has returned with a highly anticipated release: the Small Batch Collection. After a hiatus of nearly a year, three distinct cask-strength expressions are now available, promising a deeper dive into the brand’s versatility and showcasing the nuanced effects of different cask combinations. This latest collection represents a significant addition to Glenlivet’s already impressive lineup, specifically highlighting how the selection of casks – and the resulting maturation processes – dramatically impact the final character of the spirit. Each of the three releases is bottled at cask strength and non-chilled-filtered, a…

Columbus, Ohio is steadily establishing itself as a surprising center for innovation, and it’s doing so in a way that’s both delightfully strange and remarkably entertaining. “Makers,” a craft cocktail bar, is taking the *Shark Tank* franchise to a whole new level, translating the high-stakes pitches of aspiring entrepreneurs into complex, inventive cocktail creations. The bar’s unique concept, dubbed “Social Shark Tank,” isn’t just a drinking spot; it’s a live experiment in combining business ambition with boozy delights. The bar’s concept, born from a desire to inject a dose of playful chaos into the cocktail scene, is truly unique. Bartenders…

Wisconsin’s renowned craft beer industry, a cornerstone of the state’s economy and tourism, is currently navigating a significant shift as the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) implements stricter regulations concerning beer labeling. The move, largely driven by increased scrutiny over alcohol content accuracy and comprehensive ingredient disclosure, is generating considerable debate within the industry and raising questions about the delicate balance between consumer protection and the potential for increased regulatory burden on smaller breweries. The Roots of the Change: A Response to Consumer Demand The DATCP’s push for revised labeling standards isn’t a sudden reaction but rather…

The spirits market is experiencing a surprising trend: Scotch whisky sales are not just holding steady, they’re surging. Despite growing economic anxieties and fears of a recession, demand for single malt whiskies remains remarkably high, prompting investment and strategic shifts within the industry. This unexpected resilience has captivated industry analysts and sparked a deeper investigation into the factors driving this robust performance. As reported by the *Financial Times* (), the continued purchasing of this luxury spirit is a surprising phenomenon. Consumers are apparently unfazed by economic headwinds, opting for a “dram” regardless of the price. Why the Demand? This upward…