Author: Aiden

Islay, Scotland – In a welcome counterpoint to recent global whisky market trends, Kilchoman Distillery, the first new Islay operation in over a century, is significantly scaling up production to meet soaring demand. As of January 6, 2026, the family-owned distillery has boosted its annual alcohol output from 100,000 liters to a remarkable 600,000 liters – a fivefold increase. This expansion underscores the continued appeal of Islay single malt Scotch, particularly Kilchoman’s distinctive style. The distillery’s core range – the 100% Islay (aged 9+ years in bourbon barrels, 50% ABV), Machir Bay (90% bourbon, 10% sherry, 58.1% ABV), Sanaig (70%…

Rumble, the rapidly growing video platform challenging traditional social media, has taken a significant step towards a potential future. The company recently filed a draft registration statement on Form S-4, signaling a proposed business combination with Northern Data. This development immediately caught the attention of investors and industry analysts, setting the stage for a potentially transformative shift in the media landscape. Sources, including Reuters, confirm this filing marks a crucial advancement as Rumble seeks to solidify its strategic partnership with Northern Data. Northern Data, a publicly traded company specializing in data center infrastructure and cryptocurrency mining, provides Rumble with access…

Sake isn’t just for sushi anymore. A growing trend is seeing this complex Japanese spirit utilized in exciting new ways – specifically, as a surprisingly effective base for low-ABV cocktails. We spoke with Jenifer Van Nortwick, Director of Trade Marketing for Sake ONO, to uncover the secrets to elevating your low-alcohol drinking experience. Sake as the Foundation Van Nortwick advocates for using sake as the primary spirit in lower-alcohol cocktails, rather than simply adding it as a modifier. This strategic approach allows you to maintain a satisfying cocktail ‘body’ while truly highlighting the distinctive character of the sake itself. However,…

Sake is shaking up the cocktail world, moving far beyond its traditional association with sushi. A recent Forbes report has illuminated a burgeoning trend: bartenders and mixologists are increasingly embracing sake as the foundation for a new generation of low-alcohol cocktails. The shift reflects a growing consumer demand for lighter, more nuanced drinking experiences. According to Jenifer Van Nortwick, Director of Trade Marketing for Sake ONO, “There’s no denying that sake isn’t just for sushi anymore.” Van Nortwick’s guidance centers around a key adjustment: using sake as the primary spirit, rather than simply flavoring a cocktail. This approach allows sake’s…

The landscape of spirits journalism is increasingly nuanced, demanding a thoughtful and responsible approach. Maintaining journalistic integrity while accurately portraying the world of whiskey, rum, gin, and beyond requires a careful balancing act. Recent discussions have highlighted the importance of avoiding sensationalism and recognizing the potential impact of our words on consumption habits and, crucially, the well-being of our readership. There’s a growing awareness that the industry, and by extension, the media covering it, has a role to play in responsible messaging. The temptation to focus on extremes – dramatic tastings, lavish parties, or overly enthusiastic pronouncements – can inadvertently…

Westfield mourns the unexpected closure of Prospect Wine Bar & Bistro, a local institution shuttered permanently on January 1st. The news, delivered via a Facebook post, has sent shockwaves through the community and ignited speculation surrounding the reason behind the abrupt departure of this cherished gathering place. For nearly 25 years, the Boyle brothers, Tim and Chris, have been the heart and soul of Prospect Wine Bar & Bistro. Both graduates of a respected culinary program, their dedication to crafting every dish from scratch – a commitment that earned them immense respect within Westfield’s vibrant food scene – was legendary.…

Fresno, CA – Get ready to raise a glass! Tequila Fest is back, bigger and bolder than ever, and it’s set to transform Chukchansi Park into a haven for tequila aficionados and music lovers on Saturday, May 2nd, 2026. Marking its fourth consecutive year, this celebrated event promises an unforgettable night of entertainment, delicious local food, and, of course, an unparalleled selection of premium tequilas. Organized by the Fresno Grizzlies, Tequila Fest is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of the Central Valley’s event calendar. This year’s iteration promises to amplify the experience, continuing the tradition of providing high-energy entertainment, exceptional food…

Mid-City’s beloved taqueria, Guerrerro, has officially reopened its doors after a temporary closure sparked by immigration concerns. The news, confirmed by WWL-TV on January 6, 2026, marks a significant return for the neighborhood staple and a resounding message of support for its vibrant community. The initial closure had cast a shadow over Guerrerro, a fixture known for its authentic Mexican cuisine and warm atmosphere. The cause? Reported immigration enforcement actions that understandably fueled anxiety among staff and patrons. The uncertainty lingered for weeks, with loyal customers anxiously awaiting an update. Now, with the doors back open, the business is once…

For cocktail lovers seeking more than just the usual suspects, a collective of 13 master bartenders has unveiled a treasure trove of lesser-known drinks. This isn’t about chasing trendy infusions or Instagrammable presentations; it’s a deep dive into the foundations of cocktail culture, showcasing drinks often relegated to the back shelves of bars. This curated list, compiled through conversations with these industry veterans – detailed in a recent VinePair piece – offers a remarkable range of flavors and techniques, demanding respect and skill from bartenders and rewarding adventurous drinkers. Forget the Negroni and the Manhattan for a moment; these are…

Domino Printing Sciences has solidified its position as a leading innovator in variable data printing with a groundbreaking partnership with Erdinger Brewery, the world’s largest wheat beer producer. The collaboration centers on the implementation of Domino’s new Dx1060i 100W CO2 laser coder, marking a significant step in the development of high-power laser coding solutions—particularly vital for demanding beverage manufacturing operations. Erdinger, based in Erding, Bavaria, processes an astonishing 165,000 bottles per hour. For over three decades, the brewery has relied on Domino’s laser marking technology, but increasing export demands and line speeds reaching 60,000 bottles per hour necessitated a significant…