Author: Aiden

The second edition of the Ultimate Sipping Rum – Miami competition, set to unfold during the 2026 Miami Rum Congress, is rapidly approaching, promising a rigorous blind tasting event that will once again set the standard for quality sipping rum. This competition, organized by The Ultimate Awards, aims to provide credible recognition to brands consistently demonstrating excellence in the category. A Rigorous Judging Process The judging panel for this year’s competition represents a formidable group of experts. Led by Deniece Bourne, Lisa Belczyk, Rob McCaughey, Rhiannon Enlil, and Shawn Martin – all WSET Level III Spirits certified judges – the…

Dassai Brewery, renowned for its pioneering approach to sake production, is offering a rare and exclusive look inside its state-of-the-art facility in Iwakuni, Japan. This isn’t just a tour; it’s a glimpse into a future where sake production transcends terrestrial boundaries. A Brewing Operation Unlike Any Other Located a mere 40 minutes from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, the Dassai brewery is a 12-story testament to innovation. The brewery’s ambitious goals extend beyond the traditional, with a strategic partnership with NASA and even a successful sake brew conducted aboard the International Space Station. President Kazuhiro Sakurai will detail these groundbreaking…

As 2025 draws to a close, we’ve compiled a definitive list of the whiskey releases that defined the year. From bold American bourbons to refined Scottish single malts, these bottles represent the pinnacle of craftsmanship and flavor. This curated selection is perfect for seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers alike. 1. Bomberger’s PFG Kentucky Straight Bourbon Michter’s continued to impress with its PFG Kentucky Straight Bourbon. Released in 2025, this 100.2-proof bourbon showcases a complex profile. Matured in a unique blend of new, charred American oak and custom-made French fine-grain oak barrels, it delivers pronounced notes of dried fruits, wintry spices, chocolate,…

For decades, the question of whether red or white wine is healthier has fueled countless conversations. Often, claims about antioxidants and overall well-being are tied to the color of the wine. But a fresh perspective has emerged from a recent interview with Dr. Stacie Stephenson, a physician based in Illinois, offering a nuanced understanding of the differences. Sugar Content: A Closer Look Contrary to the long-held belief that red wine is inherently healthier, the actual difference in sugar content between the two is surprisingly minimal. Dr. Stephenson explains that white wine, due to the winemaking process, often contains slightly more…

Constellation Brands (CSE: CBA), a major player in the beverage alcohol industry, recently released its third-quarter results, painting a mixed picture for the company. Organic net sales declined by 2%, attributed largely to broader economic pressures and shifting consumer behavior. However, a closer examination reveals a more nuanced story, particularly within Constellation’s spirits business, where resilience and strategic shifts are starting to yield results. Overall Sales Decline Reflects Broader Challenges The 2% organic net sales decline impacted both the beer and wine segments. The company acknowledged challenging operating environments – including inflation and a softening economy – as key contributors.…

## A Yorkshire Take on a Scottish Classic: Spirit of Yorkshire Celebrates Burns Night For whisky enthusiasts and culture seekers alike, January 23rd promises a distinctive event: a Burns Night supper hosted by the Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery in Hunmanby, North Yorkshire. This isn’t your typical Scottish celebration; it’s a deliberate infusion of Yorkshire character into a beloved tradition. According to Amy Teasdale, brand ambassador at Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery, “Our philosophy here at the Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery is all about respecting tradition but doing things our own way…” This reflects a core commitment to crafting unique spirits, blending…

The Indian spirits market is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by a growing consumer appetite for quality, locally-sourced ingredients, and innovative flavor profiles. Reports from Times Now, ET Now, and Business consistently highlight a shift away from mass-produced imports towards a more discerning and diverse spirits landscape. This year, 2026, promises to be a pivotal one, marked by a surge in exciting new launches that are truly capturing the ‘sense of place’ – reflecting the unique terroir and traditions of India. A Focus on Regional Terroir Several key brands are leading the charge. The Kohinoor Reserve Indian Dark Rum, sourced…

## Amoon Spirits’ ‘Smart’ Vodka: Is This the Future of Drinking? Vodka just got a serious upgrade. Amoon Spirits has captured the attention of spirits enthusiasts and tech aficionados alike with the launch of its ‘smart’ vodka bottle. Combining a premium spirit with an interactive system, this offering raises a key question: is this a genuine innovation or simply a clever gimmick? ## What is Smart Vodka, Exactly? The core of Amoon Spirits’ offering is a ‘Vortex Control Unit’ (VCU). This unit houses an internal stir bar that generates a visually arresting swirling vortex within the vodka bottle. Adding to…

Babylon Village is poised for a new culinary chapter with the impending arrival of Whiskey Down Diner’s second location. The popular eatery, known for its inventive approach to the classic diner format, is set to open its doors at 175 E. Main St., a space formerly occupied by the beloved Ristorante Gemelli. According to owner Alyson Kanaras, the fall season promises a significant boost to the village’s dining options. This expansion follows the Gemelli family’s announcement of retirement, expressed with gratitude towards their dedicated customer base. The move reflects a broader shift within Babylon’s business landscape, noted by local entrepreneurs…

The January 2026 issue of Decanter magazine has delivered its annual ‘Wines of the Year’ assessment, and 2025 emerges as a vintage of significant global impact. Editor Sylvia Wu’s curation presents a compelling narrative of diverse regional strengths and surprising discoveries, marking a clear shift in trends within the wine industry. A Region-Neutral Approach – A Notable Trend This year’s selection demonstrates a pronounced move away from established, flagship regions. The Decanter panel, faced with a frankly overwhelming number of strong contenders, ultimately praised the diversity and breadth of styles represented by 2025’s wines. This suggests a growing consumer appetite…