Author: Aiden

North Carolina’s liquor market is witnessing a dynamic shift, according to data released by the North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission (ABC). Tito’s Handmade Vodka continues its reign as the top-selling spirit, with approximately 300,000 bottles – encompassing both 750 milliliter and 1.75 liter formats – moving annually. Rooted in Texas, Tito’s reputation for being gluten-free and a staple in ‘Bloody Mary’ cocktails continues to fuel its popularity. However, the rise of ready-to-drink (RTD) seltzers is causing significant disruption. High Noon Vodka Seltzers and Stateside Surfside Cocktails are spearheading this trend. Notably, Stateside Surfside Cocktails (375 milliliters) sales have exploded,…

Wisconsin residents began the year with a mix of serious concerns and festive spirit. Recent days have seen a significant uptick in law enforcement activity, alongside community initiatives and local celebrations. Crime & Safety Authorities in Northeast Wisconsin are actively investigating a series of disturbing incidents involving the sexual abuse of a minor. A woman has been arrested in connection with these allegations, and police are pursuing multiple leads. Simultaneously, a man was hospitalized after suffering multiple stab wounds in Neenah following an altercation around 12:47 a.m. Wednesday. The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.…

The holidays are traditionally about family, joy, and giving. This year, television personality Pete Wicks is delivering on all fronts with ‘Pete Wicks: For Dogs’ Sake,’ a special episode airing on U&W HD at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, December 31st. Marking the fourth installment of Season 1, this heartwarming rescue mission is set to delight viewers and offer a dose of festive cheer. In this latest adventure, Wicks embarks on a journey to Northern Ireland, driven by a simple but powerful goal: to bring three stray dogs – Colm, Ruby, Tammy, and Mel – back to his home in Essex.…

The aroma of toasted oak and dark chocolate is a familiar one in the world of whiskey. But a new ingredient is rapidly gaining traction, promising a complexity and depth that’s redefining the category. Barrel-aged coffee is no longer a novelty; it’s becoming a serious force, captivating seasoned palates and attracting a new generation of whiskey drinkers. The Rise of a Unique Combination For years, producers have experimented with adding fruit, spices, and even smoked ingredients to their whiskies. However, the infusion of carefully aged coffee represents a truly innovative approach. Master distillers are utilizing barrels previously used to age…

Phoenix’s culinary scene is exploding, drawing attention and reservations. But a recent wave of reviews paints a more nuanced picture, revealing both exciting new additions and establishments needing some fine-tuning. Let’s dive into the latest buzz. East Valley Chickenhug: This Instagram-famous Tempe spot opened in August 2025, quickly gaining traction with its signature burnished mahogany brown chicken. Offered in three serving sizes with fries and rice, it’s a visual and gustatory treat. Yelpers are declaring it ‘chicken heaven,’ but a recurring complaint centers around overcooking – reports suggest the whole chicken can arrive dry. The Dubai chocolate bar ($11) remains…

For decades, Pepsi has been synonymous with refreshment. But beyond its ubiquitous presence in soda fountains, Pepsi has quietly established itself as a surprisingly versatile mixer. PepsiCo estimates that the beverage has over twenty years of experience collaborating with bartenders and cocktail creators. So, what drinks truly shine when paired with Pepsi? We’ve uncovered 11 combinations that elevate the experience, offering a refreshingly different perspective on this iconic drink. The Unexpected Harmony: 11 Drinks to Try Let’s move beyond the typical soda pairings and explore how Pepsi interacts with a diverse range of spirits and mixers. The key is leveraging…

As 2026 approaches, the chill of January 1st is already on the minds of Massachusetts residents. But don’t let the predicted cold dampen your spirits – a curated selection of restaurants and distilleries are poised to offer a comforting and celebratory start to the new year. Local journalist Nick O’Malley at MassLive has identified six standout locations, each offering a distinct experience for those seeking warmth, delicious food, and perhaps a little indulgence. A Culinary Countdown From decadent waffles to sophisticated smoked cocktails, the options are plentiful. Let’s dive into the details: * Burgundian, Attleboro: This charming spot is a…

The American spirit industry is poised for a significant boost, thanks to a remarkably optimistic forecast for the 2024 corn crop. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) released its latest projections on March 31st, and the numbers are painting a picture of substantial growth. Record Yields on the Horizon The USDA is predicting a corn harvest exceeding 4.2 billion bushels – a substantial jump. More critically, yields are expected to rise to 167 bushels per acre, a notable increase from the 163 bushels per acre recorded in 2023. This means more grain, and consequently, more opportunity for distillers and blenders…

The Nigerian National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) is considering a significant shift in its approach to combating substance abuse, proposing a ban on alcohol products packaged in sachets and PET bottles with a volume below 200ml. This action has sparked immediate and vocal criticism from Integrity Advocacy for Development Initiative (IADI), raising serious concerns about the proposed strategy’s effectiveness and potential unintended consequences. IADI Executive Director Christopher Ofomhi argues that the proposed ban represents a superficial attempt to address the complex issue of substance abuse. He contends that it fails to tackle the underlying root…

The world of spirits is undergoing a quiet, yet profound, revolution. It’s not a dramatic shift in flavor profiles or flashy marketing campaigns – though those are certainly present. Instead, a core element is gaining serious traction: wild botanicals. Producers are increasingly turning to foraged, wild-grown ingredients, driven by a desire for authenticity, complexity, and a connection to the land. For centuries, distillers relied on readily available, cultivated herbs and flowers. But a new generation of craft producers is venturing off the beaten path, seeking out ingredients like elderflower, wild rose, woodruff, rowan berries, and even specific mushrooms. These aren’t…