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. […]
Breckenridge Distillery’s Rum Cask Finish Wins Top Honors at San Francisco World Spirits Competition
Breckenridge Distillery has achieved remarkable success at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition, garnering the highest honor for its Rum Cask Finish expression, which was awarded a Double Gold medal with a score of 97 points. This coveted accolade signifies unanimous recognition from the judging panel, placing the Rum Cask Finish among the elite spirits globally. Alongside this honor, Breckenridge’s Honey Whiskey also received a gold medal, further solidifying the distillery’s reputation for excellence.
Bryan Nolt, the Founder and CEO of Breckenridge Distillery, expressed pride in the recognition, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to high standards across every aspect of production—from blending to innovative finishing techniques. The double honor reflects their dedication to quality and craftsmanship in the competitive spirits market.
Among the two award-winning products, the Breckenridge Rum Cask Finish is a unique bourbon that incorporates aged Colorado rum casks, delivering rich flavors of candied apple, dark chocolate, and allspice. Priced at $59.99 and bottled at 90 proof, it aims to captivate whiskey enthusiasts.
Similarly, the Breckenridge Honey Whiskey, infused with uncommon rainforest honey from Nigeria, provides a distinctively smooth taste complemented by layers of molasses, oak, and holiday spices. This blended whiskey is offered at an MSRP of $38.00, making it an appealing choice for a wide range of consumers.
Both expressions are available through select retail outlets nationwide and can also be purchased for home delivery where permitted. Breckenridge Distillery, known as the “World’s Highest Distillery,” has received numerous accolades, including three Icons of Whisky titles and multiple Best American Blended awards from industry competitions. Their dedication to creating exceptional spirits is reflected not only in their awards but also in their efforts to provide visitors with immersive experiences at their distillery in Colorado.
For more details, you can visit Breckenridge Distillery.
Scotland Fans Spark ‘Emergency’ Beer Deliveries as Boston Bars Run Dry
Scotland soccer fans have taken over Massachusetts during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, leading to dramatic beer shortages in Boston bars. According to Devon Savage, Communications Manager for Samuel Adams, the "Tartan Army" drank four times more beer than usual over the span of a long weekend from June 11 to June 21. This surge in consumption resulted in the Sam Adams Downtown Boston Taproom running out of its flagship Boston Lager by Saturday, prompting an emergency resupply.
In total, over 4,000 pints of the lager were sold, nearly 90 kegs were emptied, and four emergency deliveries were made to meet the overwhelming demand. Other bars in Boston, such as the White Bull Tavern and Hennessy’s Bar, also reported beer shortages, with patrons remarking that the Scottish fans had depleted their stock. Scottish fan Dave Orr noted, "There was no beer" left at the White Bull Tavern.
To ensure bars are stocked for the upcoming matches, the Boston Beer Company announced plans for additional deliveries in the days to come. Scotland’s national team had recently secured a 1-0 victory against Haiti in their opening group stage match, and they were gearing up to face Morocco next, followed by a match against Brazil.
The atmosphere surrounding the World Cup has led to a lively scene in Boston, showcasing the enthusiasm and commitment of Scotland’s fans.
Bulleit Celebrates 20 Years with New Straight Rye Whiskey Release
Bulleit Distilling Co. has announced the release of its newest offering, the Bulleit 20-Year-Old Straight Rye Whiskey, a limited edition crafted to celebrate the heritage of rye whiskey in America. With a production limit of only 1,776 individually numbered bottles, this release is a nod not only to the rich history of rye as a foundational grain in whiskey-making but also to a significant moment in American history.
Rye whiskey has long been a crucial component of the American distilling landscape, and Bulleit has been at the forefront of its resurgence. The new 20-Year-Old Rye is made from Bulleit’s signature 95% rye mash bill and showcases the work of Nicole Austin, the Director of American Whiskey Liquid Development and Capabilities at Diageo, who oversaw the blending process. The whiskey’s maturation spanned two decades in carefully selected barrels that preserved the distinct rye notes while adding depth and complexity.
"With a rye this mature, the challenge is finding barrels where age adds depth without overwhelming the grain," Austin explained. "We wanted to maintain the spice and structure that characterize Bulleit Rye while revealing new layers of flavor through twenty years of maturation."
The whiskey presents a nose filled with aromas of seasoned oak, baking spices, and dried fruit. On the palate, it unfolds into a rich blend of caramelized sweetness, dark fruits, and spicy notes, leading to a long, satisfying finish.
Bulleit 20-Year-Old Rye Whiskey will be available starting July 2026, and it can be purchased for a suggested retail price of $299 for a 750mL bottle. Consumers interested in reserving this exclusive whiskey can do so through AnyRoad.
For more details about Bulleit Whiskey products, visit bulleit.com or follow their updates on social platforms.
Bulleit Unveils Its Oldest Rye Whiskey Yet: Introducing a 20-Year-Old Cask-Strength Release
Bulleit Distilling Company has announced the release of its oldest rye whiskey to date: the Bulleit 20-Year-Old Straight Rye Whiskey. Limited to just 1,776 bottles, this cask-strength offering boasts an impressive 137 proof. Crafted from a 95% rye mashbill and aged for two decades, this whiskey promises to deliver the rich spice and complexity that fans have come to expect from the Bulleit brand.
Historically, rye whiskey has played a significant role in American drinking culture. It was a dominant spirit before bourbon gained popularity. Its distinct flavor profile—spicy and robust—was enjoyed in colonial taverns across the northeastern U.S. However, following Prohibition, rye whiskey’s presence diminished until distilleries like Bulleit revived interest in this storied spirit in the early 21st century.
As the U.S. approaches its 250th anniversary, the revival of rye whiskey serves as a reminder of the country’s deep-rooted distilling history. In the early 2010s, Bulleit contributed significantly to the resurgence of rye, introducing bartenders to a spicier, more structured whiskey for cocktails.
Nicole Austin, the director of liquid development at Bulleit’s parent company Diageo, meticulously selected the barrels for this whiskey to ensure they preserved the essence of rye even after lengthy aging. During her search, she focused on finding barrels that maintained the grain’s brightness and spice, avoiding excessive oak influence that could dull the whiskey’s character.
Tasting notes for the Bulleit 20-Year-Old Straight Rye Whiskey reveal a nose rich with fruit and cream layered over polished leather, clove, maple spice, and soft vanilla. On the palate, it is semisweet, with clove at its core surrounded by ripe fruit, leather, and warm spices, finishing with a lasting complexity shaped by its two decades in barrel.
Bulleit’s latest offering will be available starting in July at their distillery and select cities, with a suggested retail price of $299. This whiskey not only showcases the intricate flavors of rye but also acknowledges the historical importance of this spirit in American culture.
Mount Gay Introduces Its First Ever Age Stated Rums: Discover the Exceptional 15 and 25-Year-Old Expressions
Mount Gay Rum, renowned as the world’s oldest distillery founded in 1703, is introducing its first-ever age-stated products: the Exceptionally Aged 15 and 25 Year Rums. This marks a significant milestone for the brand, which has been producing rum for over 300 years without labeling any of its offerings with an age.
These inaugural releases, set to hit the market in limited quantities (with fewer than 5,000 bottles for each), are part of Mount Gay’s Exceptionally Aged Collection. Recent premium releases have been successful for the brand, especially the Single Estate Series and the Master Blender Collection, leading to the development of these new age-stated rums.
Crafted in St. Lucy, Barbados, both rums were completely distilled, aged, blended, and bottled at the distillery. They matured in 100% ex-bourbon barrels, with an emphasis on how the spirits evolve within that cask.
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Exceptionally Aged 15: This rum is distilled from a blend created by former Master Blender Jerry Edwards, matured under the watch of Allen Smith and current Master Blender Trudiann Branker, who curated the final blend in 2025. Bottled at 43% ABV and non-chill filtered, it presents flavors of caramelized orchard fruits, vanilla, and sticky toffee pudding with hints of plantains and grapefruit candy, finishing with crème caramel and black tea notes.
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Exceptionally Aged 25: Also distilled by Jerry Edwards in 1999, it is aged similarly under the stewardship of both Smith and Branker, culminating in a robust 47% ABV offering. Tasting notes reveal aromas of leather and dark caramel, with complex flavors such as brandy-soaked raisins, burnt orange, and a finish reminiscent of vintage high-rye bourbons.
The Mount Gay Exceptionally Aged 15 will be available globally, totaling 4,942 bottles at an MSRP of $90. The 25-year version will be limited to 2,376 bottles, priced at $199. Master Blender Branker emphasizes that these creations honor the distillery’s long heritage and the craftsmanship of the generations of blenders before her.
Bridging the Gap: Understanding the Wine Industry’s Divide Beyond Market Forces
Silicon Valley Bank’s 2026 Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) report has highlighted a notable divide in the wine industry. The data shows a stark contrast in performance between successful and struggling wineries, revealing that this disparity is driven by strategic outlook rather than market conditions.
In 2025, high-performing wineries achieved a remarkable 22% revenue growth, while their lower-performing counterparts experienced a 13% decline. The median winery found itself stagnant, with no growth at all. This widening gap raises the question of what differentiates thriving wineries from those that are struggling.
According to Rob McMillan, EVP and founder of Silicon Valley Bank’s wine division, the key difference lies in their focus. Successful wineries concentrate on outward relationships, customer engagement, and brand building, whereas struggling ones focus primarily on internal costs and operational efficiencies. This fundamental shift in mindset impacts all aspects of business strategies, including pricing, event coordination, and marketing.
Price strategies illustrate this gap further. High-performing wineries are more inclined to increase their prices, with a focus on maintaining perceived value, while lower-performing brands often resort to steep discounts, communicating a sense of decline to premium buyers. Regulatory shifts in tasting fees have compounded the problem for those in the lower tier, with many using price cuts as a compensatory strategy without a clear plan for brand positioning.
Another aspect of concern is the decreasing foot traffic in tasting rooms, which has seen a consistent decline of about 2% year over year. Lower-performing wineries tend to overspend on renovations in hopes of attracting visitors, yet this approach does not address the core issues. The once-reliable tasting room model for attracting customers is evolving as consumers shift their preferences.
Wine clubs, which represent a significant revenue stream, show stagnation with membership growth flatlining and attrition rates high. The challenge is compounded by demographic shifts, as older, more loyal members cycle out, and younger members show less loyalty. The profitability remains a critical issue; nearly half of wineries report not being profitable, even with rising bottle prices.
Looking ahead, the wine industry faces increased competition, with the number of U.S. wineries ballooning from about 7,500 in 2019 to 11,000 in 2026. As such, advertising and new customer engagement strategies are becoming essential.
McMillan predicts that the industry could experience no growth conditions by 2027 or 2028, following a potential consolidation phase. Innovative strategies, such as virtual tastings and direct engagement with customers beyond traditional tasting rooms, could lead the way forward.
In summary, the ongoing transformations in the wine industry reflect a need for wineries to adapt to contemporary consumer behaviors while diversifying their revenue strategies. This pivot is crucial for achieving not just survival, but thriving in an increasingly complex marketplace.
Read the full report here
Explore further insights from Silicon Valley Bank’s wine division
Learn about the latest trends in the wine industry
Breaking Tradition: How Wine Brands Are Adapting to Captivate a New Generation of Drinkers
Forget traditional pairings; today’s wine marketers are facing quirky challenges that defy convention. Questions like which vintage pairs with Shark Week or whether a bold cabernet suits an evening of humorously naming deceased rodents after exes illustrate the wine industry’s struggle to adapt to a younger demographic’s taste. Sales in the wine sector are declining, compelling brands to shed the "fuddy-duddy" image that has historically defined them.
Helen Kurtz from The Wine Group emphasizes a shift toward a more approachable image, focusing on gaining the favor of a generation accustomed to easy-drinking products. Their brands, like Cupcake Vineyards, aim for less seriousness while tapping into unconventional partnerships—like linking MD 20/20 with World Wrestling Entertainment or Fuel by Franzia with NASCAR.
This downturn isn’t isolated; overall alcohol consumption is declining, particularly amongst Gen Z who are leaning towards low- and no-alcohol options as well as alternative products like cannabis. Older generations, like Boomers, are also prioritizing healthier lifestyles, exerting downward pressure on traditional wine consumption.
Navigating the complexities of wine can be daunting for newcomers, especially younger drinkers. A significant barrier is wine’s often pretentious image, filled with esoteric descriptors and high price points. It’s reported that fewer than 33% of Gen-Z households own a corkscrew, showcasing a disconnect with the traditional wine consumption model. The industry is responding with simpler messaging and price points in the $8 to $20 range that emphasize drinkability.
Brands like Bogle’s Juggernaut Wines are innovating with bold labels featuring aggressive animals and engaging in non-traditional marketing venues like tough mudder races or even partnerships with Discovery’s Shark Week. This approach aims to resonate with consumers in meaningful contexts rather than expecting them to engage on traditional platforms.
Communication style is another battleground. Younger consumers are dismissive of the elaborate marketing language typically associated with wine, opting instead for straightforward and relatable phrases. Brands like Bread & Butter Wines emphasize candor with taglines like “Don’t overthink it,” appealing to a new generation seeking ease and enjoyment in their wine experience.
As the industry attempts to bridge the generational divide, the goal is clear: to move away from the elitist connotations of drinking wine and create an inviting atmosphere. Strategies that leverage pop culture and direct messaging are emerging as vital components for capturing the attention of younger drinkers in the evolving beverage landscape.
Celebrating Legacy: The Family-Owned Midwest Beer That’s Thrived for Over 150 Years
A lot of people cook to recreate dishes from their past, dealing with culinary nostalgia that arises from products or flavors that were once commonplace. This is precisely how August Schell, an immigrant from Germany, came to establish a brewing empire long ago when he yearned for the taste of his homeland’s beer. Founded in 1860, August Schell Brewing Company, based in Minnesota, has not only withstood the test of time but remains a family-owned operation over 150 years later.
In its inaugural year, the modest brewery, established alongside brewmaster Jacob Bernhardt, produced approximately 200 barrels of beer using ice from nearby rivers and underground caves during a pre-refrigeration era. By 1866, Schell had fully taken over the venture, initiating a legacy that continues today under the guidance of his great-great-grandchildren.
Throughout its history, the brewery has faced numerous challenges, including the Civil War and the Prohibition period, both of which significantly impacted operations. During Prohibition, the brewery adapted by producing non-alcoholic beverages and low-alcohol beer alternatives to survive.
As of now, Schell’s flagship product remains the Deer Brand Beer, a nod to pre-Prohibition brewing customs, accompanied by a selection of other styles, including a German-style Pilsner and seasonal offerings. The current generation of Schneider family brewers—Jace, Kyle, and Franz—face the pressing challenge of evolving market demands, often contending with consumers’ desires for novelty over classic brews, as noted by previous owner Jodi Marti.
Schell’s efforts have also included expanding its portfolio through the acquisition of Grain Belt Beer, a brand established in 1890 that was struggling in a competitive landscape. This acquisition revitalized Grain Belt, drawing in loyal customers and enhancing the overall reputation of Schell’s.
Despite accolades from beer enthusiasts—notably being referred to as the second oldest continuously running brewery in the country—Schell’s has encountered criticism from trade groups like the Brewers Association. An issue arose around classifications of "craft beer," sparking debate about what constitutes traditional versus non-traditional methods in brewing, but the enduring quality and dedication of Schell’s offerings have remained steadfast.
For those who appreciate history as much as quality craft beer, August Schell Brewing Company stands as a testament to resilience and dedication to the craft, embodying both personal and community narratives shaped by generations of brewing heritage.
For more insights on the brewing community and Schell’s legacy, check out Beer Dabbler and Forbes.
2023’s Best American Whiskey Finalists at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition
The Tasting Alliance has announced the Batch 1 finalists for the Best of Class American Whiskey at the recent San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC). The competition highlights standout products across various whiskey categories, including Rye, Tennessee, American Blended, and American Single Malt whiskeys. Each finalist has been awarded a Double Gold Medal based on their exceptional quality, scoring between 97 and 99 points out of 100.
About the Competition
The SFWSC is an esteemed global event where industry professionals gather to evaluate a wide range of distilled spirits through blind tastings. This methodology ensures that judges assess the essence of each liquid without bias related to branding or packaging.
Finalists Highlight
Here are some of the Best of Class finalists in their respective categories:
Rye Whiskey
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Baltimore Spirits Company
- Product: Epoch Maryland Straight Rye Whiskey 6 Year Old Cask Strength
- Tasting Notes: Bold, oak-forward with a lively flavor and a minty finish.
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O.K.I.
- Product: Single Barrel Rye Whiskey
- Tasting Notes: Dominated by oak and clove with a sweet rye spice backbone.
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WhistlePig
- Product: Boss Hog Collection – Boss XII Feather & Flame Rye Whiskey
- Tasting Notes: Warm with brown butter notes and a savory finish.
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James B. Beam Distilling Co.
- Product: Old Overholt 12 Year Old Extra Aged Cask Strength
- Tasting Notes: Oak-forward with layers of gingerbread, stone fruit and cinnamon.
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Art of the Spirits
- Product: Mogadishu Hazmat Single Barrel Straight Rye Whiskey
- Tasting Notes: Savory with notes of baked apple and balanced spicing.
Tennessee Whiskey
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Uncle Nearest
- Product: 1884 Small Batch Whiskey
- Tasting Notes: Sweet with spiced caramel and a warm finish.
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Jack Daniel’s
- Product: Batch 2 14-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey
- Tasting Notes: Rich in burnt caramel and cacao with a smoky touch.
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Leiper’s Fork Distillery
- Product: Bottled-In-Bond Tennessee Whiskey
- Tasting Notes: Features maple syrup sweetness balanced with black pepper spice.
American Blended Whiskey
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High Bank Distillery
- Product: Whiskey War Double Double Oaked American Blended Whiskey
- Tasting Notes: Playful notes of bubblegum and honey.
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High Bank Distillery
- Product: Whiskey War American Blended Whiskey
- Tasting Notes: Gentle honey flavor with a bright, balanced character.
American Single Malt Whiskey
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Dark Arts Whiskey House
- Product: American Single Malt Whiskey
- Tasting Notes: Rich in butterscotch and molasses depth.
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Lost Woods
- Product: 110 American Single Malt Whiskey
- Tasting Notes: Decadent with flavors of dates and clove.
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Stranahan’s
- Product: Original American Single Malt Whiskey
- Tasting Notes: Clean with rustic notes and brown sugar sweetness.
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Stranahan’s
- Product: Mountain Angel 12 Year Old American Single Malt Whiskey
- Tasting Notes: Nutty with a complex finish.
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The Notch Nantucket Single Malt Whisky
- Product: 15 Year Old
- Tasting Notes: Bright and lively, balancing fresh woods with fruity notes.
The winners for each category will be revealed during the Top Shelf 2026 Awards Gala in November. For more details on the SFWSC, visit the official Tasting Alliance website.
Top Tips for Beginners to Identify Quality Rum
Rum has long been a key component in tropical beverages, particularly from the Caribbean, but selecting quality rum can initially be challenging due to the variety available, including light, gold, dark, and spiced rums. Tasting Table sought the advice of Katie Stryjewski, a cocktail blogger and author, for guidance on identifying good rum, especially for beginners.
Stryjewski cautions against overly sweet and artificially flavored rums, which often contain additives. She also highlights that rum labeled as "gold" can be a red flag; this color might derive from caramel coloring added for appearance rather than indicating aging in oak casks. When choosing a rum, Stryjewski recommends looking for an age statement and the place of origin, as these factors typically suggest adherence to higher production standards. Rums distilled in regions like Jamaica, Barbados, and Puerto Rico often meet stricter guidelines that could indicate better quality.
Another essential indicator is price; higher costs often correlate with quality, unlike tequila, which has seen a celebrity-driven surge in popularity, making premium rums less common in affordable price ranges.
There is no singular flavor profile for quality rum, as preferences can vary widely. Light rum tends to have a more subtle flavor, while dark rum can be bold and complex. Jamaican rum often features a unique flavor termed ‘hogo’—a complex taste reminiscent of overripe fruit and various spices. Rhum agricole offers a lighter, more vegetal taste.
For beginners, Stryjewski suggests starting with Appleton Estate Reserve or Bacardi Reserva Ocho, each priced around $30. These choices feature familiar notes of oak, spice, and vanilla, making them accessible for those not used to sipping spirits straight. If looking for aged rums, Kaniche XO and Plantation OFTD are also recommended.
In summary, when selecting quality rum, pay attention to the label, the price, and explore a range of flavors to discover what suits your palate best. For more details, you can read the full article on Tasting Table here.