Author: Aiden

Bennington, VT – A seemingly quiet evening turned into a beverage-fueled mystery after a man is accused of stealing two six-packs of Heineken from a Stewart’s Shops on Main Street on Wednesday, December 31st. The incident, reported to Bennington Police, unfolded around 5:30 p.m. and remains under investigation. The details of the alleged theft are currently limited, but police are actively seeking the individual responsible. Witnesses described a male suspect who left the store without paying for the premium beer. No injuries were reported, and the value of the stolen goods is estimated to be around $36. “We’re treating this…

For centuries, the British Empire was built on conquest and dominion. But behind the grand narratives of military might, a surprisingly simple beverage played a critical role in its survival: the Gin & Tonic. Contrary to popular belief, the gin and tonic association wasn’t a deliberate strategic move. It emerged from a desperate, pragmatic response to a relentless enemy – malaria. British officials stationed in India, Africa, and across the empire were consistently afflicted by the disease, which was then the leading cause of death for the colonial workforce. Victorian-era medicine offered little in the way of effective treatment. The…

Dry January is no longer just a trend; it’s a full-blown movement. As January rolls around, more and more people are embracing the challenge of abstaining from alcohol, seeking healthier habits and a refreshingly clear head. But ditching the buzz doesn’t have to mean ditching the sophisticated flavor profiles you’ve come to expect. The market is exploding with innovative non-alcoholic spirits, wine alternatives, and incredible mocktails – making this Dry January your most discerning yet. What is Dry January? Dry January is an annual challenge, typically held in January, where participants abstain from alcohol. It aligns with New Year’s resolutions…

Canada’s spirit landscape is undergoing a delicious transformation, and rum is leading the charge. While whisky often steals the spotlight, a wave of dedicated craft distillers across the country is producing exceptional rums, showcasing local ingredients and innovative techniques. This isn’t your average rum – it’s a reflection of Canada’s diverse terroir and burgeoning distillery culture. From the rugged coast of Newfoundland to the fertile valleys of British Columbia, Canadian rum producers are pushing boundaries. Let’s explore some of the key players: Newfoundland Distillery Co.: Nestled in Clarke’s Beach, Newfoundland & Labrador, this distillery’s commitment to traceability is remarkable. They…

Canada’s domestic alcohol industry is undergoing a remarkable transformation, fueled by a growing appreciation for craft and a fierce dedication to local terroir. Consumers are increasingly seeking out spirits deeply rooted in their region, and the response has been met with resounding success. A recent Forbes report highlights this surge in popularity, largely driven by Canadian-owned brands championing the use of regionally sourced ingredients – from locally grown grains and vibrant grapes to distinctive maple syrup and unique Arctic botanicals. Several standout companies are leading the charge. Crown Royal, synonymous with Canadian whisky, has expanded its presence with Gimli Reserve,…

The thrill of the hunt. For whiskey enthusiasts, the allure of single barrel bourbon lies in its unrepeatable character. Each bottle represents a unique journey, a testament to the nuances of aging and the artistry of the distiller. Unlike blended bourbons, which rely on consistency, single barrel releases offer a truly individualized experience – a gamble, certainly, but one with potentially incredible rewards. Here, we spotlight seven standout single barrel bourbons poised to capture attention in 2026, offering a guide to acquiring these prized spirits. What Makes Single Barrel Bourbon Special? The practice of blending hundreds, even thousands, of barrels…

California’s ongoing drought has forced a radical rethink among its agricultural giants, and the unlikely hero is agave. As reported by *The Globe and Mail*, the plant that fuels tequila production is emerging as a critical solution for farmers grappling with crippling water shortages. Take Stuart Woolf, for example. His 30,000-acre operation southwest of Fresno now faces the stark reality of potentially only cultivating 60% of his land. The demands of almonds and pistachios – requiring a staggering 125 and 100 centimetres of water respectively – are simply unsustainable in the current climate. Agave, however, thrives with a mere six…

For years, the suggestion that a moderate glass of red wine offered distinct health advantages compared to its white counterpart has been a comforting narrative. But recent research is throwing a fascinating, and somewhat complicated, curveball into this established belief. While antioxidants – particularly resveratrol – remain a key driver of the perceived benefits, the conversation around red wine’s health impact is undergoing a significant reassessment. Initially, the association stemmed largely from studies highlighting resveratrol’s potential in combating cellular damage. Christopher Daniels, a seasoned figure with experience as a server, bartender, and restaurant manager, has cautioned against overly simplistic conclusions.…

New Year’s Eve is undergoing a transformation, and Gen Z is leading the charge. Forget the relentless focus on alcohol – a new generation is redefining the holiday, prioritizing experiences and, increasingly, sophisticated non-alcoholic options. For decades, New Year’s Eve was synonymous with heavy drinking. But a significant shift is underway, largely fueled by the preferences of younger drinkers. Sales of non-alcoholic beverages are surging, reflecting a broader trend away from the traditional celebratory routine. This isn’t simply a hangover aversion; it’s a deliberate choice to embrace a different kind of festivity. Non-Alcoholic Beverage Sales Rise The evidence is clear:…

Pennsylvania rye whiskey is quietly becoming a force to be reckoned with within the American spirits landscape. For decades, bourbon and Tennessee whiskey dominated the conversation, but a new generation of distillers is passionately reviving this historic style, offering a complex and intensely flavorful alternative. A Heritage Rediscovered The roots of Pennsylvania rye stretch back to the colonial era, when rye was the predominant grain used in whiskey production – a direct response to wheat shortages and a preference for a drier, spicier spirit. During the mid-19th century, Pennsylvania was the largest rye-producing state in the nation. However, the rise…