Author: Aiden

Brad Pitt’s foray into the spirits world has yielded a remarkably evocative gin – ‘The Gardener.’ More than just a celebrity endorsement, this bottled expression captures the very essence of the Côte d’Azur, thanks to a tightly curated selection of botanicals and a strategic collaboration. Launched with a quiet fanfare, ‘The Gardener’ immediately signals a commitment to provenance. Pitt’s partnership with the Perrin family, renowned winemakers, forms the core of the project. Alongside master distiller Tom Nichol, they’ve created a gin that’s both familiar and refreshingly novel. The spirit, bottled at 42% ABV and priced at €44.90 for a 70cl…

Dubai’s reputation for luxury extends beyond the skyscrapers and designer boutiques – it’s increasingly apparent in its beverage prices. Australian influencer Louise Starkey recently faced a stark reminder of this when she spent a staggering AED 380 (approximately $154 AUD) on two Red Bull and vodka cocktails while attending a Black Coffee concert in the city. The incident, captured and shared widely on social media, sparked a significant reaction among Starkey’s followers. The total cost of the two drinks translated to roughly $105 USD, a figure that immediately raised eyebrows and highlighted the potential expense of enjoying a simple beverage…

For over two centuries, the name Overholt has been synonymous with uncompromising quality and a fiercely independent spirit. This year, Old Overholt celebrates a remarkable milestone: 215 years of continuous rye whiskey production, solidifying its position as America’s oldest continuously distilled brand. It all began in 1810 with Abe Overholt, a pioneering spirit who established his distillery in West Overton, Pennsylvania. His commitment to a traditional sour mash recipe – a process passed down through generations – laid the foundation for a legacy that has endured through Prohibition, expansion, and ultimately, integration within the esteemed Beam Inc. family. The brand’s…

For decades, bourbon has reigned supreme as America’s flagship spirit. Its rich history, oak-aged traditions, and undeniable appeal have cemented its place in the hearts – and glasses – of drinkers worldwide. But a new wave is brewing, one rooted in a rugged, independent spirit: Appalachian rye. Across the Blue Ridge Mountains and the hollows of Kentucky, a resurgence of rye whiskey production is underway. Producers, often family-owned and fiercely committed to preserving time-honored techniques, are resurrecting a style once relegated to the margins. These aren’t the overly sweet, readily available ryes of the past; instead, expect a powerful, complex…

The Bronx is witnessing a remarkable surge in Coquito consumption as the holiday season fast approaches. Fueled by a potent blend of homemade recipes and thriving local Facebook groups, this creamy, spiced rum beverage is captivating the borough’s vibrant community. Recent estimates from New York City’s Department of Planning reveal that nearly 240,000 Bronx residents identify as of Puerto Rican descent – a crucial element in understanding this burgeoning tradition. At the heart of the Coquito craze are a few key ingredients. Industry experts and devoted fans consistently agree: quality, particularly when it comes to Puerto Rican rum, is paramount.…

Rye whiskey is experiencing a remarkable resurgence, captivating palates and challenging the established dominance of bourbon. Once a nearly forgotten spirit, rye is now a key ingredient in innovative cocktails and a driving force behind a renewed appreciation for complex, spicy American whiskies. A History Reborn Rye’s roots run deep in American history. Originally, rye was the predominant grain used in whiskey production, particularly in the early days of American distilling. However, by the late 19th century, bourbon, utilizing corn, swiftly gained favor due to its lower production costs and sweeter flavor profile. For decades, rye largely faded from prominence,…

A single night, a bottle of sake, and a tidal wave of online disapproval. A recent incident involving a husband’s repeated attempts to gift away a sentimental Japanese sake bottle – a souvenir from a tasting class – and a gift wine bottle has captured the internet’s attention, prompting widespread condemnation. The unnamed husband, referred to only as “The Guy,” reportedly disregarded his wife’s explicit requests not to share the alcohol during a boys’ night gathering. Despite repeated refusals, he relentlessly attempted to offer portions of the bottles to his companions, claiming he “forgot” the earlier conversation regarding his actions.…

The amber glow of the bourbon industry is fading faster than a summer sunset. A disturbing trend – a precipitous drop in American drinking habits – is sending shockwaves through the sector, forcing major brands and smaller distilleries alike to confront a reality they’re struggling to adapt to. According to recent *Forbes* reporting, the percentage of Americans who regularly consume alcohol has plummeted to a record-low 54%, a stark contrast to the 67% recorded just two years prior. Worryingly, even younger adults are significantly reducing their alcohol intake, with only 50% reporting drinking at all. The average American is now…

The Santa Barbara Funk Zone is witnessing a significant evolution, as Municipal Winemakers, a cornerstone of the district’s transformation, is set to close its tasting room at the end of this month. The news, confirmed by *The Independent*, marks a poignant chapter for a winery that played a pivotal role in shaping the area’s vibrant identity. Dave Potter, the founder of Municipal Winemakers, announced the closure on Monday, following fifteen years of operation, which began in a modest hut on lower Anacapa Street. Potter’s vision, initially met with skepticism, fundamentally shifted the Funk Zone from an industrial zone to a…

For decades, bourbon has reigned supreme as America’s flagship spirit. But a quiet revolution is underway, one patiently crafted in the shadows of Kentucky’s bluegrass. American single malt whisky – once a niche curiosity – is rapidly gaining recognition and, frankly, deserves your attention. The roots of this movement trace back to the Pacific Northwest, primarily Washington and Oregon. The cool, maritime climate, combined with locally grown barley and a growing demand for more nuanced spirits, provided the perfect conditions. Producers like Westward Spirits, Palouse Distillery, and Barr Hill Farms are pioneering a style distinctly different from its Scottish counterpart.…