Pécharmant – The Best Alternative to Bordeaux Wine
With a rich history spanning centuries, the Pécharmant region is renowned for producing some of the most distinctive wines in France. Nestled in the Dordogne Valley, Pécharmant’s unique terroir gives birth to robust red wines that are as enigmatic as the region itself. But amidst this wine-rich land, one name stands out – Château Beauportail. […]
Is a Dehumidifier Essential for Your Wine Cellar? Here’s What You Need to Know
If you’re a wine enthusiast, having a home wine cellar allows you to savor the appropriate bottle for any occasion. This is particularly beneficial for those who intend to store multiple unopened wines for over a year. The cellar serves as a dedicated space to grow your collection while safeguarding your investment. The first step towards this goal is selecting a stunning cellar design, followed by ensuring it maintains a dark and cool environment for your wines.
Experts recommend that the ideal temperature for a wine cellar is between 53 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit. Humidity is equally critical, with optimal levels around 60% to 70%. This range is essential to prevent wine corks from drying out which can lead to spoilage or evaporation of the wine if humidity drops below 50%. Conversely, humidity exceeding 70% can cause bottles to leak and become susceptible to bacteria contamination.
To maintain appropriate humidity levels, a humidity gauge is advisable. This device helps you monitor the conditions and take action when necessary. If humidity readings exceed 70%, it may be time to use a portable dehumidifier until the levels return to the ideal range. Once you’ve achieved the desired humidity, it’s important to turn off the dehumidifier to avoid excessively drying the air, which can damage the corks of the wine bottles.
In cases where the humidity levels are consistently below the recommended range, using a humidifier can help raise the moisture levels. For optimal results, consider investing in a wine cellar-specific humidifier and remain vigilant regarding the humidity readings to avoid unnecessary use of these devices.
Maintaining the correct humidity in your wine cellar is vital for preserving the integrity of your wine collection. Adjusting humidity levels as necessary can significantly extend the lifespan of your valuable bottles.
Raise a Glass: 10 New Whiskey Releases to Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary
American distilleries continue to celebrate the country’s 250th anniversary with unique whiskey releases. These special editions of bourbon and rye recognize historical figures and events, perfect for collectors or celebratory toasts.
Here are 10 noteworthy releases:
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Barrell Bourbon Batch 038 ($85)
This blend from Kentucky, Tennessee, Indiana, and Maryland features bourbons aged 8 to 15 years, delivering a rich flavor profile of oak, toffee, and clove. -
Bhakta 1868 America250 Edition ($250)
This luxurious whiskey combines bourbon with Armagnacs spanning 100 vintages, celebrating historical figures like Washington and Lincoln. -
George Washington’s Spirit of ’76 Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey ($1,000)
The first release from Washington’s Virginia distillery in centuries, only 350 bottles were made, crafted using 18th-century methods. Available exclusively at The Shops at Mount Vernon. -
Horse Soldier Liberty Edition ($799)
Created by former Green Berets, this limited-release bourbon honors the Statue of Liberty, with a portion of sales benefiting the Statue of Liberty Foundation. -
Lost Lantern United States of Bourbon 100 Proof ($80)
This independent bottler sourced 50 bourbons from all 50 states to commemorate the anniversary, featuring transparency by listing all contributing distilleries. -
Oak & Eden America 250 Founder’s Bourbon ($85)
Finished with a maple syrup-soaked oak spire, this unique release pays homage to the year 1776 with limited availability. -
Rittenhouse United States 250th Anniversary Commemorative Edition ($100)
A 10-year-old rye whiskey bottled-in-bond, this edition enhances the standard Rittenhouse Rye using Pennsylvania’s Monongahela grain. -
Sagamore America 250 Eight-Year-Old Straight Rye ($125)
Highlighting Maryland’s historic rye style, this limited release focuses on the spicy characteristics of rye softened by corn. -
Silver Brothers Distillery American Single Malt ($78)
Made from 100% New York-grown barley, this light and fruity single malt emphasizes local terroir. -
Tenmile Revolutionary Whiskey – General Washington ($95)
This five-year-old single malt is part of a year-long series of 12 whiskeys, honoring the battles of the Revolutionary War.
These unique whiskeys are not just drinks but also a tribute to the history and heritage of America, ensuring that the celebration of independence continues in flavorful styles.
The Ultimate Root Beer Float Taste Test: Which Fast Food Chain Comes Out on Top?
Whether you enjoy the creamy blend of ice cream and fizzy soda or simply have a fondness for nostalgic drinks, root beer floats are a classic favorite. To find out which fast food chain serves the best root beer float, Steven Luna from Mashed tried six popular options including Red Robin, Freddy’s, and Sonic. Ultimately, Culver’s emerged as the top contender for both quality and price.
Culver’s float was particularly praised for its balanced flavor profile. Luna noted that Culver’s unique root beer formula adds a spicy twist that complements the creaminess of their frozen custard. The burger chain is well-known for its top-notch custard made from fresh, often local dairy and simple ingredients, giving customers a rich and satisfying experience.
For those who might not be familiar with Culver’s, the chain has been around since its inception, boasting a root beer created by a co-founder, contributing to its uniqueness on the menu. Customers are fond of the combination of root beer and custard, leading to impressive sales figures of over 315,000 gallons of root beer annually.
Reddit users and YouTube reviewers alike echo positive sentiments about the float, routinely pairing it with their meals, highlighting its delightful sweetness, creaminess, and slight kick from the root beer.
For newcomers to Culver’s, the root beer float is a must-try, but patrons can also custom-order their floats by using different sodas and flavors. This versatility means that there’s always something new to try, ensuring that each visit can be unique.
For more information, you can read the original article on Mashed here.
Why This Iconic Midwest Beer Exclusive to Wisconsin Has Captured Hearts and Taste Buds Nationwide
Wisconsin is well-known for its iconic fast-food chain Culver’s and its vast cheese production, but it also boasts a unique beer that has gained a devoted following: Spotted Cow, crafted by New Glarus Brewing Company. This ale provides a delicious fruity taste with a sweet note and subtle honey flavor, making it the perfect refreshment on hot summer days. However, the beer is exclusive to Wisconsin, which adds to its allure.
Dan Carey, the brewmaster behind Spotted Cow, created this ale as a tribute to traditional farmhouse beers made by European farmers. Its charm lies in its simplicity; it is brewed with just four ingredients: yeast, hops, water, and malted barley. The inclusion of yeast gives the beer a distinctive cloudy appearance. Its limited availability has led many to venture into Wisconsin specifically to procure this beloved brew, with some even transporting it across state lines for their friends and family.
Due to its popularity, many fans express their admiration online, with one Reddit user sharing their experience: "Went to Wisconsin for the first time last summer. Can confirm Spotted Cow is ELITE."
While it’s unclear why Spotted Cow is only sold in Wisconsin, the New Glarus Brewing Company shows no signs of changing that. For those unable to make the trip, fans recommend trying cream ales, which share a similar sweetness and malt finish, as alternatives. Some suggested options include Castle Danger Cream Ale and Urban Growler Cowbell Cream Ale. Other similar styles, such as lagers like Fulton Standard or Insight Royal Nuisance, can also mimic Spotted Cow’s mouthfeel.
Although Wisconsin may not have the highest number of breweries in the country, it certainly has some legendary beers. Visitors can find Spotted Cow in grocery and convenience stores throughout the state, as well as on tap in various bars and restaurants. Just be sure to stock up before you leave!
For more information about Spotted Cow and to explore alternatives, check out Chowhound’s original article.
A Fresh Perspective: Revisiting Bacardi Black Rum – An Opinion Piece
My liquor cabinet reflects my aspirations, much like my library, built on the hope that I will someday utilize all it holds. Spirits seem to accumulate faster than they are consumed, with bourbon and brandy finding their way into regular use, while wine flows with dinners. Other bottles, however, languish on the shelf, waiting for their moment in the spotlight, sometimes for months or even years.
This brings me to Bacardi Black Rum, a spirit that has often been overshadowed by others. It sits on my shelf, a fixture waiting for a second chance. Recognizing that Bacardi Black offers more than just a basic rum experience, I’m re-evaluating its place in my collection.
Typically overlooked in favor of more premium brands, Bacardi Black has a storied history and a balance of flavors that can hold its own in cocktails and sips alike. Understanding its unique characteristics invites new opportunities for experimentation in mixing and paired cocktails.
As I reconsider this spirit’s place in my drinking repertoire, I remind myself that the best experiences often come from exploring the lesser-known or disregarded options. Bacardi Black, with its rich notes and distinct profile, holds the potential for a fresh take on traditional rum cocktails. It’s an invitation to revisit and appreciate what’s been waiting quietly on the shelf, encouraging us to brew something special.
New Riff Distilling Unveils Rare Whiskey to Support Local Charities
New Riff Distilling is launching a limited edition whiskey blend, the 2026 Headliner, which combines three whiskeys aged for a minimum of ten years. This release not only appeals to whiskey enthusiasts but also aims to support local charities, with proceeds benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Cincinnati and Tri-State Trails.
According to Mollie Lewis, the president of New Riff Distilling, every bottle purchased contributes to building stronger community ties by funding organizations dedicated to positive change. The whiskey itself consists of 50% 11-year-old malted rye bourbon, 25% 11-year-old rye, and 25% 10-year-old balboa rye, marking an important milestone as the first mixture featuring components all over a decade old.
Tasting notes describe the whiskey as beginning with aromatic layers of rich oak, dark fruits, and a blend of spices. Flavors of fig, raisin, and honeyed currant are complemented by deep oak and spicy notes, leading to a long, satisfying finish.
The 2026 Headliner will retail for $150 per bottle and is set to go on sale through New Riff’s Whiskey Club starting at 11 a.m. on July 24. Membership for the club is free, though purchasing is limited to one bottle per individual and available for local pickup only.
World Cup Beer Sales Soar: Brewers Aim to Keep the Momentum Going Beyond the Tournament
The World Cup has proven to be a significant boon for the beer industry in the U.S., offering a brief respite from a decade-long decline in beer consumption. During this tournament, bars, particularly in locations like Boston, have struggled to meet the surge in demand, requiring emergency deliveries to supply thirsty fans. Reports indicate that 290,000 beers were consumed across six matches in Philadelphia, emphasizing the event’s impact on beer sales.
However, despite the lively atmosphere surrounding the tournament, the reality remains that beer sales have been on a global downturn. In the U.S., the Brewers Association documents a steady decrease in beer consumption, and similar trends have been noted in Canada and the European Union. This decline is attributed to changing consumer preferences, with more people opting for health-conscious and non-alcoholic options.
A notable shift in consumer behavior has emerged, where many individuals choose to limit their alcohol intake for health reasons. This was highlighted in a recent Gallup poll, which showed that for the first time, over half of Americans view daily drinking of a couple of drinks as detrimental to their health.
Despite these trends, the World Cup has invigorated beer sales significantly, with a reported 14% increase in sales during the tournament in U.S. host cities compared to the previous year. Nationally, sales have increased by 4%. Breweries, including the Boston Beer Co., have benefitted directly from this uptick in sales, with some establishments reporting impressive figures of beer sold during matches.
Soccer fans have taken the opportunity to immerse themselves in the spirit of the games, often gathering in bars and public venues that promote socializing over a drink. Contrasting with the last World Cup in Qatar, where alcohol sales were heavily restricted, this year’s tournament has allowed breweries to capitalize on communal celebrations.
As breweries ramp up marketing efforts, some companies have reported planned increases in their advertising budgets around this sporting event. It is yet to be seen how sales will fare once the tournament concludes, particularly as teams like Mexico and Brazil have exited the competition, impacting customer mood and consumption levels.
Nevertheless, industry leaders express optimism, citing upcoming global sporting events such as the Summer Olympics in 2028, which could reignite interest in beer consumption as social activities resume in full swing.
Fat Mike Launches Exciting New Vodka Business!
Fat Mike, the frontman of NOFX, has ventured into the vodka business with a brand called "Fatty’s Bottom Shelf." His rationale for starting this venture stems from his belief that all vodkas have a similar taste. He shared that he sampled over five different recipes, finding it difficult to distinguish between them. Consequently, he instructed the vodka makers to create a product that was easy to produce, resulting in a vodka that supposedly tastes "almost like good tasting vodka."
Fat Mike humorously mentions that many of his friends have commented, “I’ve had worse,” which leads him to declare, “if it’s almost good enough for them… it’s good enough for me!”
The vodka, which comes in at 40% alcohol by volume, is being sold in packs that include an exclusive 7-inch record featuring Fat Mike.
The Best-Selling Wine Brand in the U.S.: A Familiar Label Everyone Recognizes
It’s always a delight to indulge in a splendid bottle of wine, but sometimes, the best options are those familiar and beloved brands. When selecting affordable yet tasty wines, American choices can often surprise you, and one particular name stands out above the rest: Barefoot.
Barefoot, originating from California vineyards, has established itself as the best-selling wine brand in the U.S. It has received accolades including the title of the 2025 American Winery of the Year from Wine Enthusiast. Additionally, the American Association of Wine Economists recognized Barefoot as the leading U.S. wine brand, selling over 19 million cases in 2023. Since its inception in 1965, Barefoot has curated a wide variety of delicious and budget-friendly wines.
Typically, a bottle of Barefoot ranges from $5 to $12, which makes it accessible for any occasion, whether for a gathering, dinner, or even cooking. They offer a diverse lineup across different wine types including white, red, and bubbly options. However, not all varieties are created equal, so here are some recommendations.
Among Barefoot’s offerings, the Barefoot Moscato stands out, renowned for its sweet flavor and smooth finish, making it an excellent match for spicy dishes. Fans of this wine have passionate sentiments, even humorously stating desires to be buried with it. The Barefoot Riesling has also gained popularity, lauded for its refreshing fruity notes and winning accolades like top honors at the San Francisco International Wine Competition in 2024. On the contrary, some consumers have criticized the Barefoot Merlot, suggesting it lacks a pleasant taste throughout, although serving it at the proper temperature might improve the experience.
Barefoot demonstrates that quality does not have to come at a high cost, and its widespread availability ensures that you can find a bottle practically anywhere. With its notable achievements, serving Barefoot may even impress the most discerning wine aficionados.
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Martha Washington’s Classic Favorite Drink: A Timeless Tradition Passed Down from Her Mother
Martha Washington’s favorite drink, a delightful rum punch, has its roots in a cherished family recipe passed down from her mother. During her time in the White House from 1789 to 1797, Martha became known for her hospitality, often serving this punch at her famed gatherings.
The recipe, preserved at George Washington’s Mount Vernon, includes an enticing mix of white rum, dark rum, orange curaçao, simple syrup, fresh lemons and oranges, along with spices such as nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. To prepare, she would muddle the fruits with the spices and syrup, adding the spirits and water before straining the mixture for a smooth finish.
Rum was an integral part of the colonial economy and culture, with estimates suggesting that the average colonist consumed about 3.7 gallons of rum annually by the American Revolution. George Washington even operated one of the largest distilleries of the time, so it’s likely that the rum in Martha’s punch was distilled by him.
Throughout the 1600s to 1700s, rum surpassed whiskey in popularity, largely due to its availability from molasses, a byproduct of the sugar trade with the West Indies. This spirit was not only enjoyed socially but also often used as currency in the colonies.
As tastes evolved in America, the preference shifted toward whiskey in the 1800s, reflecting the changing palates of the country’s citizens. However, Martha’s legacy lives on, inviting modern enthusiasts to recreate her punch for festive gatherings, encouraging a return to Colonial-style celebrations.
For those interested in trying Martha Washington’s rum punch, you can find the recipe on the Mount Vernon website.