Author: Aiden

For decades, the conversation around tequila has been dominated by a select few. Brands like Don Julio and Patrón, with their significant marketing budgets and widespread recognition, have effectively shaped consumer perceptions. But a recent announcement from the Beverage Testing Institute (BTI) is shaking up the tequila world, and challenging long-held assumptions. The BTI has just crowned a surprising champion: Fortaleza Tequila, a relatively small producer hailing from the heart of Jalisco, Mexico – and it’s a revelation that suggests the best tequila isn’t always the one you expect. Beyond the Brand Names: The Power of Objective Evaluation For years,…

The drinks world is currently simmering with anticipation – and a noticeable level of speculation – following the announcement of the Drinks Awards 2026. And let’s be unequivocally clear: this isn’t simply about recognizing excellence; it’s signaling a potential, and frankly, dramatic shift towards incredibly premium spirits, with prices poised to climb to unprecedented heights. The air of excitement surrounding this year’s event suggests a fundamental re-evaluation of what constitutes a desirable cocktail experience, and the wallets of discerning drinkers are likely to feel the impact. The initial buzz, gleaned from sources like *The Gentle’s Journal*, is centered around a…

Are you spending too much time and money chasing the “perfect” whisky, only to end up with a collection of bottles gathering dust? It’s a common frustration for whisky enthusiasts, a siren song of marketing and celebrity endorsements leading to overspending and ultimately, disappointment. However, perhaps you’re judging the spirits all wrong. A recent article from *The Whisky Wash*, “5 Whiskies That Are Better Than You Think (And 5 That Are Overrated,” offers a valuable perspective, highlighting both exceptional underappreciated drams and those best left untouched. The article’s core message is simple: don’t let the hype dictate your choices. Often,…

The holiday season is upon us, a time for warmth, connection, and, of course, spirited celebration. But with the frenzy of shopping and the pressure to find the “perfect” gift, it’s easy to fall into the trap of predictable choices. Forget the mass-produced brands – News18 recently compiled a list of eight exceptional spirits capturing attention as ideal selections for gifting and festive celebrations, reflecting a growing consumer desire for nuanced and unique expressions. Consumers are increasingly seeking out smaller producers and distinctive styles, moving away from ubiquitous brands in favor of experiences and tastes that stand out. Here’s a…

The world recently marked a historic milestone – the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II – and distilleries across Scotland have responded with releases celebrating her remarkable reign. Now, Benromach Distillery, renowned for its subtly sherry-influenced whiskies, has delivered a truly exceptional and commemorative offering: “The Platinum Reserve,” a 21-year-old expression meticulously crafted to honor the late monarch. This limited-edition whisky isn’t just a drink; it’s a tangible piece of history, representing a significant investment for whisky enthusiasts and a fitting tribute to a life dedicated to service and a historic, 70-year reign. The Details: A Legacy in Liquid Form…

South Korea is undergoing a dramatic shift in its spirits consumption habits, with imported spirits – particularly Scotch whisky – experiencing a monumental surge. According to recent reports, import values skyrocketed by a staggering 39% in the first half of 2024, prompting a critical question: Are Koreans suddenly becoming whisky snobs? The rise isn’t simply a fleeting trend; it represents a fundamental change in how a nation drinks, a move away from the deeply ingrained tradition of soju and towards a world of complex, nuanced spirits. The shift away from the ubiquitous soju, a traditional Korean rice spirit, is undeniably…

The drinks landscape is shifting, and it’s a shift that’s surprisingly exciting. De Soi, the brand known for its delicious and sophisticated non-alcoholic spirits, is embarking on a massive national expansion, signaling a major moment for the burgeoning non-alcoholic beverage market. It’s not just about a trendy alternative; it’s a fundamental change in how we think about enjoying a drink – a shift fueled by evolving consumer preferences, a heightened awareness of health and wellness, and a desire for mindful social experiences. A Rising Tide: The Non-Alcoholic Beverage Boom De Soi’s move comes as the broader non-alcoholic spirits sector is…

A significant recall has been issued by Disaronno, a brand owned by Campari Group, impacting several of their popular liqueurs due to the discovery of glass fragments within bottles. Consumers are urged to immediately check their purchases and take necessary precautions, highlighting a serious safety concern within the spirits industry. The initial alert, quickly picked up by outlets like MSN and The Rum Collective, has sparked widespread concern and prompted a proactive response from both the company and consumers. What Happened? The situation began with reports circulating of glass shards appearing in bottles of Disaronno Limoncello and other products, most…

The holiday season is upon us, and while visions of sugar plums dance in our heads, a darker trend is emerging: a widespread crisis of overly sweet, artificial-tasting eggnog. What was once a comforting, spiced treat is now facing a serious flavor challenge, prompting a shift in production and a growing demand for more balanced and sophisticated holiday spirits. This isn’t simply a matter of personal preference; it represents a significant alteration in how consumers experience – and expect – their favorite festive beverage. As reported by *Chowhound*, a concerned consumer recently brought to light a troubling trend of particularly…

Disaronno, the globally recognized name synonymous with the beloved Amaretto liqueur, has initiated a significant and widespread recall of its products due to the concerning discovery of glass fragments within bottles. This unexpected issue is raising serious questions about quality control procedures and prompting a cautious approach for consumers examining their existing stocks. The recall, announced across multiple media outlets, including MSN, impacts several key Disaronno Amaretto varieties, demanding immediate attention and careful consideration. The Problem: A Concern for Consumer Safety As reported extensively by outlets like MSN, the recall centers around three core Disaronno Amaretto offerings: the Original Amaretto,…