Pécharmant – The Best Alternative to Bordeaux Wine

Bob Gunter has concluded a significant chapter in both his life and the history of Kōloa Rum Co. by stepping down as the company’s president and chief executive officer on May 1, 2026, after nearly 18 years. His leadership led to remarkable growth, taking the Kōloa Rum brand from its origins to 38 states and internationally to regions including Canada, Japan, and Europe.

In a heartfelt LinkedIn post, Gunter expressed his mixed emotions about the decision and reflected on the team’s accomplishments during his tenure, which included championing sustainable practices, showcasing Hawaiian rum globally, and utilizing locally-sourced ingredients. He emphasized the importance of teamwork in achieving their shared goals, echoing the saying, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

Several colleagues and former executives praised Gunter for his leadership style, highlighting his integrity and mentorship. Gunter started at Kōloa Rum Co. as chief operating officer in 2008 before being elevated to CEO just two years later. His extensive experience in the agricultural and spirits industries, combined with a deep commitment to the Kaua‘i community, bolstered the company’s reputation.

Gunter’s successor, Robert Ramer, previously served as chief commercial officer. Ramer joined Kōloa Rum in 2011 and has a history of driving growth for the brand. In his new role as chief operating officer, Ramer will now oversee daily operations and is enthusiastic about continuing the company’s journey.

Kōloa Rum Co. was founded in 2009, marking the return of distilling on Kaua‘i after Prohibition, and is noted for its quality, sustainability, and deep connection to Hawaiian culture. The company produces a variety of handcrafted rums using local materials, embodying a spirit of aloha and pride in its heritage.

As Kōloa Rum transitions under Ramer’s leadership, it is poised to embrace new opportunities while maintaining its commitment to quality and the values instilled by Gunter. More details on the distillery and its offerings can be found on the Kōloa Rum Co. website.

Martha Stewart has reintroduced a delightful party hack just in time for the summer entertaining season. Known for her stylish approach to hosting, Stewart’s "iced vodka" presentation involves encasing a bottle of vodka in a block of ice adorned with flowers, making it both an attractive centerpiece and an effective way to keep the vodka chilled for hours.

In a recently resurfaced clip, Stewart demonstrates the process by placing a 750-milliliter vodka bottle into a half-gallon milk carton with the top removed. She surrounds the bottle with fresh flowers, fills the carton with cold water, and then freezes the entire setup. Once solidified, the carton is peeled away to reveal an elegant, flower-studded ice block that perfectly showcases the vodka bottle.

The appeal of this trick goes beyond aesthetics; keeping the vodka extremely cold enhances its flavor and reduces the burn typically associated with hard liquor, according to beverage experts. Stewart mentions that freezing the vodka alters its texture and taste, presenting a smoother experience for drinkers.

Fans of the technique have shared their appreciation online, with many expressing excitement to replicate the distinctive presentation for their own gatherings. While some nostalgia surrounds Stewart’s demonstration from her long-running daytime show “Martha Stewart Living,” others have raised practical concerns about the mess it could create as the ice melts. Nevertheless, adjustments such as using a tray to catch melting ice and adding seasonal accents, like citrus slices or herbs, can enhance the presentation while minimizing mess.

Overall, Stewart’s iced vodka trick is reaffirming its place in summer festivities as a splendid way to serve drinks stylishly and refreshingly.

A new barbershop in downtown State College, named The Whiskey Barber Salon, seeks to redefine the traditional barbershop experience. Located at 135 S. Pugh St. beneath the Scholar State College hotel, it offers a variety of hair and beard grooming services tailored for customers of all ages. The barbershop’s unique western theming and whiskey-infused treatments aim to create a memorable atmosphere for clients seeking more than just a haircut.

Owner Tanya Campbell emphasizes a personalized approach to each client. “We’re not a rushed, in-and-out shop,” she says, focusing on delivering precision and consistency to create styles that complement each individual’s lifestyle. The shop offers a complete grooming experience for $35, which includes a precise haircut, neck shave, shampoo, eyebrow trim, and a hot steam towel. Children’s haircuts start at $30.

Whiskey plays a significant role in the barbershop’s branding, featuring whiskey-infused hot towels among other products from brands like Duke Cannon that incorporate Buffalo Trace bourbon whiskey. Customers can relax with a complimentary drink such as Vitamin Water, Bai water, or a small glass of whiskey during their visit.

“We’re doing our best to source products that go with our brand and style,” Campbell explains, pairing the ambiance of dark woods with the high-class barbering experience she aims to provide. The shop officially opened in early April and plans to celebrate its launch with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The atmosphere at the salon aims to forge personal connections between the staff and clients, fostering a community feeling. Salon professional Cassie Poorman notes that getting to know customers leads to better service and stronger relationships, encouraging them to return for both quality cuts and positive experiences.

To support its launch, Campbell’s team received assistance through the Retail Launch Assistance Program, which provides funding for first-time brick-and-mortar businesses. This support not only alleviated financial burdens but also integrated them into the State College business community.

Kendra Kielbasa, the improvement district’s retail advocate, hopes the program will continue to benefit new businesses, noting the satisfaction of guiding owners through the startup process. For Campbell, the program has been invaluable in establishing connections within the local community—a crucial aspect of her business philosophy.

The Whiskey Barber Salon is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Clients can easily schedule appointments through their website.

Many whiskey enthusiasts know Buffalo Trace Bourbon, a Kentucky-based distillery known since the early 2000s. However, in 2024, they introduced a new blend called Traveller Whiskey, aimed at appealing to novice whiskey drinkers. With rich notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak, this whiskey boasts 45% alcohol by volume yet remains approachable. It garnered significant acclaim, winning 15 awards, including a Gold at the 2024 American Whiskey Masters Awards.

The origins of Buffalo Trace can be traced back to the early 1800s, surviving Prohibition and producing over a million barrels since then. The relationship between the distillery and Chris Stapleton, a renowned Kentucky-born musician, led to the creation of Traveller Whiskey. Stapleton, who famously sang about Tennessee whiskey, collaborated with Buffalo Trace to develop this new spirit, tasting up to 50 blends before concluding on the final product.

In terms of flavor, the whiskey offers a mellow experience without the harsh burn typical of other stronger spirits. Neat, it reveals its smoothness through flavors of caramel and spices, while on the rocks, it presents different notes of aged fruit and a lighter profile. While sampling, drinkers may find it best enjoyed neat to appreciate its full complexity.

The composition of Traveller Whiskey is less transparent than that of their bourbons. Though the exact grain mix remains a trade secret, it includes more than two varieties from the distillery’s portfolio. It also lacks an age statement, which means the maturation period isn’t publicized. The whiskey carries the philosophy that good whiskey, like a good song, speaks for itself on the first sip.

This whiskey can be enjoyed in various ways—neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails. One standout cocktail is the Lucky Penny, made with honey syrup and lemon juice, enhancing the whiskey’s maple undertones.

Interestingly, Stapleton himself is not a heavy drinker, having reflected on his relationship with alcohol. While he enjoyed drinking in his younger years, he now approaches it with balance and moderation, maintaining an impressive bourbon collection at home.

A unique feature of the Buffalo Trace Traveller Whiskey bottle includes a hidden map of Lexington, Kentucky, viewable through the whiskey itself, symbolizing the origins of both Stapleton and the distillery. Additionally, in 2025, it was designated as the first official whiskey of Major League Baseball, further embedding its presence in culture by connecting with fans in a unique multi-year partnership.

For more information on Buffalo Trace products, you can visit the official site Buffalo Trace.