Author: Aiden

San Francisco’s cocktail scene just got a serious upgrade. ‘Bitter End,’ a brand-new bottle shop dedicated entirely to the often-overlooked world of bitters, has opened its doors in the city’s heart. This isn’t your typical liqueur selection; it’s a meticulously curated collection boasting over 100 different bitters, primarily sourced from small-batch, independent producers. A Bitters Obsession The concept behind ‘Bitter End’ is the brainchild of Ben Riles, a former bartender who’s cultivated a profound passion for the complexity and remarkable versatility of bitters. Joined by co-owner and bitters specialist Emily Wilson, Riles and Wilson are aiming to establish themselves as…

Gin is firmly in the driver’s seat of the spirits market, according to the latest Global Drinks Intel Review of the Year, which boldly declares it the “best spirits category analysis of 2025.” The report confirms what many industry observers have been predicting: gin’s popularity is experiencing a massive surge, and it’s not slowing down. A Botanical Blitz Global Drinks Intel’s research points to several key factors driving gin’s continued dominance. Firstly, younger drinkers are embracing the category, moving beyond traditional whisky preferences. Secondly, a wider range of gin styles is appealing to a broader audience, moving beyond established brands…

Dublin, Ireland – A surprising and increasingly problematic trend is sweeping across Ireland: the flushing of leftover Baileys Irish Cream liqueur down the toilet. What began as a seemingly isolated incident has escalated into a significant concern for wastewater treatment plants and, ultimately, the nation’s water system. Initially reported by *RSVP Live*, the surge in Irish households disposing of the popular cream liqueur stems from a shortage of sinks, according to the article. “Apparently, there’s a massive surge in Irish households have been disposing of the cream liqueur this way, likely due to a shortage of sinks,” the report stated.…

The gin landscape is shifting. For years, the category was dominated by citrus, juniper, and classic London Dry profiles. Now, a quiet revolution is brewing – one driven by a renewed fascination with wild botanicals. Producers are increasingly turning to foraged ingredients, showcasing a complex and deeply nuanced approach to gin making. This isn’t simply about adding a few extra herbs; it’s a fundamental shift in philosophy, demanding a greater respect for the natural world and resulting in gins with unprecedented depth and character. Beyond the Botanical Basics Traditional gin production often relies on a carefully curated list of botanicals,…

The East Village has lost a true icon. After 18 years of serving up potent cocktails and fostering a uniquely chaotic, yet beloved, atmosphere, Paradise Lost bar is closing its doors, marking a significant loss for New York City’s vibrant nightlife scene. The closure, announced recently, is attributed to rising rents and a shift in the neighborhood’s overall vibe – a reality impacting many long-standing establishments. As owner Richard Miller stated, “It’s a heartbreaking decision, but ultimately, the economics just couldn’t sustain the business anymore.” The bar’s closing reflects a larger trend of displacement and change within the city’s entertainment…

The world of whiskey has long been defined by the revered traditions of barley. But a quiet revolution is underway, one fueled by the innovative spirit – quite literally – of single-grain whiskies. From high-proof rye to experimental corn and even audacious sorghum, producers are pushing boundaries, challenging convention, and redefining what a ‘whiskey’ can be. For decades, the dominant narrative centered around Scotch, Irish, and American bourbon, all relying heavily on barley. While these styles remain cornerstones of the industry, a new generation of distilleries is embracing diverse grain bills, unlocking unexpected flavors and textures. This isn’t about replacing…

Scotch whisky’s enduring legacy continues to shape the global spirits landscape. According to Global Drinks Intel’s definitive ‘Best Spirits Category Analysis of 2025,’ the iconic single malt remains the undisputed champion, demonstrating remarkable resilience and continued growth. The report underscores a fundamental shift in consumer preference – a growing appreciation for the intricate character and storied heritage embedded within each bottle. The Unstoppable Rise of Scotch For years, industry experts have anticipated this moment. Global Drinks Intel’s data confirms that Scotch’s dominance isn’t just a trend; it’s a sustained force driving expansion across the entire spirits sector. As *Shanken News…

Barr Hill gin devotees, brace yourselves for a surprising expansion. Goddard & Mead, the renowned distillery behind the uniquely herbaceous Barr Hill gin, is taking a significant step into the whiskey world with the release of ‘The Ridge’ rye whiskey. This move isn’t a fleeting fancy; it’s a carefully considered strategy capitalizing on the surging demand for complex, layered spirits. As reported by *The Manual*, Goddard & Mead’s venture into whiskey isn’t simply about adding another product to their portfolio. It’s a deliberate move to mirror the intense flavor profiles that have propelled Barr Hill gin to such acclaim. The…

Mizuwake, a style of sake traditionally served chilled with food, is experiencing a significant surge in popularity, both within Japan and internationally. For decades, sake was almost exclusively consumed warmed, often served hot with grilled fish – a pairing born from the country’s colder climate. However, a new generation of sake producers is challenging this convention, embracing a fresher, more nuanced approach that elevates the spirit to a culinary partner rather than simply a beverage. This shift is being driven by several key factors. Firstly, a growing appreciation for seasonality and freshness in Japanese cuisine – ‘shun’ – has fueled…

The Hakushu 12 Year Old is a whisky whispered about in serious circles. It’s a single cask expression, matured exclusively in Mizunara oak, and carries a unique story rooted in the heart of Japan’s mountainous highlands. This expression consistently appears on lists of the world’s best, and for good reason. Its complex flavor profile, characterized by a beautiful balance of fruit, spice, and wood, offers a deeply satisfying drinking experience. Let’s unpack what makes this whisky so compelling. Suntory’s Hakushu distillery, nestled in the cooling shadows of the Japanese Alps, operates with a philosophy centered around preserving the unique character…