Author: Aiden

The spirits industry is deeply saddened by the passing of Branden ‘Brandy’ Wahl, 73, of Barnesville, Minnesota. Wahl, a longtime contributor to the industry’s fabric, passed away peacefully on December 30, 2024, at Valley Care & Rehab due to complications from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). News of Wahl’s death spread quickly through distillery communities and hospitality networks across the Midwest. Wahl, known for his quiet diligence and encyclopedic knowledge of spirits production, had dedicated his life to understanding and appreciating the art of distillation. While details surrounding his direct involvement in the production of finished spirits remain private, his influence…

A stunning collection of Macallan Anniversary Malts has fetched a remarkable $167,637, demonstrating the enduring allure of this iconic distillery’s legacy. The complete set, comprising 19 bottles, represents a significant investment for any whisky enthusiast. This exceptional collection spans a nearly six-decade period, from 1957 to 1975, showcasing a diverse range of vintage and non-vintage releases. The bottles themselves represent a testament to Macallan’s consistent quality and a period when the distillery was pioneering sherry cask maturation – a hallmark of its distinctive character. The buyer is 72-year-old Danielle Smeyers, who began her passion for Macallan after a trip to…

The iconic Jim Beam distillery, a cornerstone of the American bourbon industry, has abruptly halted distillation at its flagship location. The move, confirmed by NPR’s *All Things Considered* following a conversation with renowned bourbon authority Fred Minnick, raises serious questions about the future of this beloved spirit. Bourbon enthusiasts and industry analysts alike are reacting with a mix of concern and speculation. Jim Beam’s decision to cease operations at its main distillery, a process that has been ongoing for several weeks, hasn’t been officially explained. However, whispers suggest a confluence of factors – including shifting consumer preferences and increased production…

The world of Scotch has long dominated conversations about single malt. But a quiet revolution is brewing, one born from the unique climate and ancient oak trees of Japan: Mizunara whiskey. For decades, Japanese whisky producers, largely operating in the shadow of their Scotch counterparts, have been meticulously crafting a spirit unlike anything else. The Magic of Mizunara Oak Mizunara, also known as Japanese White Oak, is the key. Unlike the European oak commonly used for Scotch, Mizunara trees thrive in the humid, coastal environments of Japan. The result is a wood with a markedly different character. The tight grain…

The craft spirits industry thrives on narrative. Each release, each distillery, each expression, tells a story – a tale of passion, tradition, innovation, and, crucially, flavor. But what happens when the source dries up? When there’s nothing to report? It’s a question that’s been echoing through the industry, and one I’ve been pondering recently. I’m a professional, though perhaps a somewhat unconventional one. My days are spent behind a bar, analyzing the subtle nuances of spirits, and connecting with the people who create them. And lately, I’ve found myself facing an unsettling truth: there’s an alarming amount of silence. Distilleries…

North Charleston, SC – Fans of adrenaline-fueled action are in for a treat as the Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour brings its high-octane Professional Bull Riding spectacle to the North Charleston Coliseum and Performing Arts Center on January 9th and 10th, 2026. The event promises a thrilling weekend of competition, showcasing the raw power and skill of some of the sport’s most formidable riders. This year’s competition will feature 40 riders battling it out in the first round, with the top 36 advancing to a demanding round two. Only the elite 10 will then converge for the championship round, vying for…

Kentucky has long been synonymous with bourbon, a legacy steeped in tradition and oak-aged complexity. But a fascinating shift is underway – a renewed focus on rye whiskey, and Kentucky rye, in particular, is carving out its own distinct identity, surprising palates and challenging expectations. For decades, rye largely faded from the Kentucky landscape, overshadowed by the dominance of bourbon. However, a new generation of distillers, driven by a desire to innovate and explore alternative flavor profiles, is bringing rye back to life. They’re utilizing heritage grains, employing different fermentation techniques, and, crucially, experimenting with maturation methods that deviate from…

Baltimore’s culinary landscape is set to explode this year, with a wave of exciting new openings and events promising to invigorate the city’s vibrant food scene. As of January 2, 2026, the buzz is palpable, and discerning diners have a wealth of experiences to look forward to. Fresh Flavors and Dynamic Spaces Several new establishments are shaking up the city’s offerings. Josefina, a stunning waterfront restaurant at Harbor Point, debuted with a memorable New Year’s Eve dinner and is now accepting reservations. The space itself is a true highlight, complemented by an ambitious menu. Elsewhere, Chef Chris Amendola has taken…

For decades, Scotch has reigned supreme as the undisputed king of single malt whiskey. But a quiet revolution is underway, one sip at a time. Japanese single malts are rapidly gaining recognition, challenging established norms and captivating discerning palates worldwide. A Tradition of Mastery Japanese whisky’s story isn’t about tradition in the same way as Scotland’s. It’s rooted in a profound respect for craftsmanship, born from a desire to emulate, then surpass, the quality of Scotch. The first Japanese whisky, Suntory’s Hakushu, was created in 1920, initially as a gift for the British Royal Family. This began a lineage of…

The American craft beer landscape is facing a serious challenge: a crippling shortage of beer kegs. Reports indicate a substantial reduction in available kegs across the U.S., sending ripples through the industry and raising concerns about accessibility for consumers. The situation, detailed in recent Forbes reports, is far more complex than a simple seasonal fluctuation. The Root of the Problem The primary driver of this shortage is a confluence of factors, most notably an unprecedented surge in demand coupled with significant disruptions within the global supply chain. Brewers, both large and small, are reporting difficulties in sourcing finished kegs, primarily…