Author: Aiden

The non-alcoholic beer market is undergoing a dramatic transformation, and a significant player is announcing its exit. Athletic Brewing, the company that built its brand around “sports fuel” and a surprisingly sophisticated range of non-alcoholic craft beers, is shuttering its operations and selling its Waterport, NY and Richmond, VA breweries to brewing group, North Coast Brewing Company. This move, reported extensively by *Inc.com*, isn’t just a business decision; it’s a potent signal about the challenges and potential pitfalls within a market that has experienced remarkable, yet ultimately fragile, growth. For years, Athletic Brewing had been a leading force, appealing directly…

Forget the traditional spiced eggnog – in India, Christmas celebrations are taking a decidedly darker turn. According to a recent story on CurlyTales, rum is the absolute centerpiece of holiday menus across the country, replacing brandy and other spirits with generous helpings of dark rum. The trend isn’t a recent fad; it’s a centuries-old tradition deeply rooted in India’s history, a delightful surprise that’s quietly captivated the nation’s festive spirit. The roots of this unusual custom stretch back to the colonial era, a fascinating intersection of cultures and tastes. British colonial influence, as highlighted by *Whisky Advocate*, played a significant…

The food and beverage industry is known for its surprises, but even the most seasoned observers might have choked on their ice when the news broke: Dr. Dre and Gordon Ramsay are collaborating on a ham commercial for Porky’s. And yes, it’s as bizarre and entertaining as it sounds. This unlikely pairing, meticulously crafted and surprisingly serious, is already generating a significant online reaction, proving that the internet’s appetite for the unexpected is perpetually insatiable. The full commercial, showcasing the two culinary titans meticulously judging slices of Porky’s ham, can be found here: . The footage, a meticulously crafted and…

San Francisco’s famed dining scene is facing a harsh reality: a significant wave of winter weather is forcing numerous restaurants and bars to temporarily close their doors – and it’s more than just a blip. The situation is serious, impacting both establishments and the thirsty patrons who rely on them. Recent reports confirm that over 50 establishments have shuttered, primarily due to safety concerns related to the relentless winter storms battering the city. As Eater SF detailed, the closures are “not some dramatic, Instagram-worthy collapse,” but rather a pragmatic response to hazardous conditions. You can read the full coverage here:…

The future of Scotch whisky is facing intense scrutiny, and a leading voice in the industry, *Whisky Advocate*, is issuing a powerful call for a dramatic shift. In an exclusive interview with Max Shapira and Kate Latts, the publication is laying out a compelling argument for a more diverse, sustainable, and appealing Scotch landscape – one that recognizes the evolving tastes of consumers and the imperative to attract a new generation of drinkers. The conversation, largely spurred by a *Whisky Advocate* piece centered around the innovative Heaven’s Hills distillery, signals a critical moment for an industry traditionally resistant to change.…

For years, the conversation around exceptional sparkling wine has almost exclusively centered on France, particularly Champagne. But quietly, a remarkable transformation is taking place in New Jersey, and it’s time you knew about it. The Garden State is steadily becoming a legitimate sparkling wine destination, producing surprisingly impressive bottles that are challenging even the most established names. Forget the usual suspects – this burgeoning scene is offering a sophisticated alternative, proving that the best bubbles don’t always come from across the Atlantic. Recent reports highlight a dramatic shift, with several New Jersey wineries embracing traditional methods and producing complex, nuanced…

The holidays are often a chaotic mix of well-meaning relatives, questionable decorations, and, let’s be honest, a reliance on the same predictable cocktails. This year, however, 1800 Tequila is throwing a festive grenade into the mix, aiming to become the unexpected star of your awkward family holiday gatherings – and frankly, we’re totally on board. The brand, in partnership with the creative marketing agency Stupid Dope, has launched a full-scale campaign centered around innovative festive cocktails and, surprisingly, high-proof gifts, recognizing a growing consumer desire for elevated experiences and sophisticated indulgences during the season. Elevating the Holiday Mixology – It’s…

The quest for cozy vibes is in full swing this winter, and it’s manifesting in a surprisingly spirited way – quite literally. A wave of brands are introducing winter-themed soju, a Korean rice spirit, aiming to capture the warmth and comfort everyone’s craving as the temperatures drop. This isn’t just a fleeting novelty; it represents a deeper trend within the spirits industry, fueled by a desire for seasonal experiences and a yearning for connection during the colder months. It might seem a little odd, but this trend is rooted in a broader movement within the spirits industry. As *Drinksint* notes,…

Cincinnati’s Overlook Food & Spirits, a beloved neighborhood haunt known for its inventive cocktails and sophisticated atmosphere, is embarking on a bold and decidedly warmer direction: a significant expansion of its whiskey program. The bar, already a celebrated destination for discerning drinkers, is dedicating itself to showcasing the spirit, a move that’s already generating considerable excitement among whiskey enthusiasts and solidifying its position as a key player in the city’s growing spirits scene. The news, initially detailed in a recent *Cincinnati Magazine* article highlighting the bar’s evolving identity, has quickly gained traction. As anyone who appreciates the subtle complexities of…

The 10th Annual Pendleton Whisky Music Fest is proving to be more than just a country music event – it’s a significant industry gathering, and this year, the spotlight is firmly on Zach Top. While the name might be unfamiliar to casual observers, the festival itself is attracting a considerable audience and, crucially, bringing together key players in the whiskey industry. Held annually in a picturesque setting – details of which can be found on the event’s website – the festival has steadily grown into a notable event, particularly for its impact on brand visibility within the spirits sector. According…