Author: Aiden

Update: October 26, 2023 – The world of classic cocktails is facing a slight disruption. A recall is underway for certain bottles of Disaronno vermouth, a beloved ingredient in iconic drinks like the Manhattan, Old Fashioned, and countless others. The unsettling reason? Tiny glass fragments were discovered within the bottles, posing a serious potential hazard to consumers. This recall underscores the importance of vigilance when it comes to your home bar inventory, and highlights potential manufacturing issues within established brands. The Recall Details Disaronno, the renowned Italian spirits company behind this classic vermouth, is issuing a voluntary recall for specific…

Aspen, Colorado – a name synonymous with luxury, breathtaking scenery, and, increasingly, exceptional gastronomy – is poised for another stunning transformation thanks to the latest additions to the lineup for the annual Food & Wine Classic. This year’s festival promises to be bigger, bolder, and undeniably more star-studded, headlined by renowned chef Bobby Flay and television personality Brooke Williamson. The event, widely regarded as “the world’s premier wine and food festival,” is set to deliver a weekend of unparalleled indulgence, learning, and connection with some of the most influential figures in the culinary world. For decades, the Food & Wine…

Florida’s craft beer scene has always been known for its audacious experimentation, and Sun Coast Brewing Company’s latest creation, “Tropical Inferno,” is raising the stakes significantly. This 8.2% ABV stout isn’t just another beer; it’s a full-blown sensory experience – a vibrant, complex, and frankly, a little intimidating one – and it’s already generating considerable buzz throughout the state. The initial reports, detailed in a recent article in *Florida Weekly*, highlight the brewery’s delivery of a potent concoction. The core of “Tropical Inferno” lies in its daring combination of ingredients: passion fruit, habanero peppers, and pineapple. The brewery promises a…

The world of premium spirits is constantly evolving, seeking new and engaging ways to connect with consumers. And now, Laurens Irish Whiskey is charting a decidedly unconventional course, launching a seven-night Caribbean cruise designed to immerse whiskey enthusiasts in a unique blend of luxury, coastal beauty, and, of course, exceptional Irish whiskey. Forget battling crowds at typical tourist hotspots – this voyage promises a decidedly different experience, one that’s capturing attention across the globe. The concept, initially revealed with a noticeable chuckle, is rapidly gaining serious traction. This bold move reflects a strategic shift for the brand, moving beyond the…

Chattanooga Whiskey is making a serious statement with the launch of “The Vault,” a trio of exceptionally limited-edition whiskey expressions. These releases – a cask strength rye, a barrel proof bourbon, and a finished Scotch – are already generating considerable buzz and represent a bold move by the Tennessee distillery, signaling a new era of ambition and pushing the boundaries of American whiskey production. The unveiling of “The Vault” isn’t simply the release of three new bottles; it’s a declaration of Chattanooga Whiskey’s commitment to crafting exceptional spirits, regardless of geographic constraints or established traditions. What’s Inside ‘The Vault’? The…

The spirits industry is rarely known for its sudden shifts, but the arrival of Empress 1908’s new alcohol-free gin is a notable departure, a bold move that speaks to a growing consumer desire for mindful experiences and sophisticated flavor, regardless of alcohol content. Okay, listen up, because this is wilder than a shaken Manhattan with a rogue olive. Apparently, Empress Gin – that gorgeous, London Dry gin that’s basically the epitome of sophisticated sipping – is ditching the booze entirely. They’ve launched an alcohol-free version called Empress 1908, and honestly, I’m half-expecting a tiny fairy to pop out and tell…

The global spirits market is undergoing a dramatic transformation, and at the very heart of this shift lies Scotch whisky. The recently released 2025 World Spirits Report presents a compelling, and increasingly undeniable, picture: demand for smoky, peaty drams is not just increasing – it’s experiencing an unprecedented surge in both volume and value. This isn’t a fleeting fad or a momentary spike; rather, it represents a sustained movement driven by a profound and evolving appreciation for the unique character and intricate complexity of this iconic spirit. The report’s findings are being echoed by leading industry voices, solidifying the belief…

El Roca Tequila is sending shockwaves through the spirits world with a staggering expansion of its menu, offering drinkers a truly unprecedented range of expressions. Forget just a few choices – this is a tequila exploration on a grand scale. The brand, previously known for its sleek bottles and agave-forward flavor, is now boasting over 40 distinct tequila varieties, encompassing everything from the crisp, bright flavors of Blanco to the smooth, complex notes of Reposado and Anejo. This represents a significant shift in the tequila landscape and a bold move by El Roca to solidify its position as a premium…

The battle for Chablis – that uniquely mineral, subtly funky white wine from Burgundy – is heating up, with producers fiercely resisting new French regulations designed to control how the wine is marketed. What began as a brief mention in *The Spirits Business* is now attracting broader attention, fueled by concerns that these changes will limit consumer choice and potentially threaten the future of this highly sought-after wine. The situation is raising fundamental questions about the balance between government oversight and the autonomy of small businesses, particularly when those businesses are deeply rooted in tradition and regional identity. The Core…

Memphis’s The Beauty Shop is making waves – and a lot of delicious, blueberry-infused waves – thanks to their signature cocktail, the “Blue Suede Martini.” What started as a passionate pursuit by owner Shannon Byler has blossomed into a mini-kerfuffle, fueled by a truly distinctive recipe and a strong defense of its unique flavor profile. It’s a story that speaks to a growing appreciation for craftsmanship, heritage, and the unwavering dedication it takes to create a truly memorable drink. At the heart of the “Blue Suede” is a custom-made blueberry liqueur, paired with a generous splash of St. Agne Corn…