Pécharmant – The Best Alternative to Bordeaux Wine

ALB Vodka Expands Distribution with Columbia Distributing in Washington

ALB Vodka has announced a new partnership with Columbia Distributing to enhance its distribution network in Washington. This collaboration marks a significant step in ALB Vodka’s growth strategy as it aims to penetrate deeper into the Northwest market.

The partnership comes on the heels of Columbia Distributing acquiring selected distribution rights from RNDC, enabling a broader reach for ALB Vodka across Washington State. As a part of this strategy, ALB Vodka looks to increase its presence in both on-premise and off-premise locations, facilitating access to new consumers throughout the region.

Brian Grimsley, National Sales Director of ALB Vodka, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, "In Columbia Distributing, we found a trusted partner to take the next step in ALB Vodka’s nationwide distribution… Columbia Distributing is perfectly positioned to grow ALB Vodka’s consumer base."

The collaboration is pivotal for ALB Vodka, one of the fastest-growing independent spirit brands in the U.S. The brand started as a regional product in Albany, New York, and is now expanding its distribution strategy nationwide, with Columbia Distributing playing a crucial role in this endeavor.

Chris Steffanci, CEO of Columbia Distributing, also shared his enthusiasm for the partnership, noting ALB Vodka’s compelling brand story and product quality that aligns well with the customer’s needs across the Northwest.

As ALB Vodka continues its expansion journey, they plan to deepen their market reach into Oregon and Alaska, with announcements expected in the near future.

A significant factor in ALB Vodka’s recent growth is attributed to strategic marketing initiatives such as a national inflight partnership with JetBlue and JSX, promoting the vodka to travelers domestically and internationally.

Currently, ALB Vodka is becoming increasingly accessible to consumers nationwide who are looking for high-quality independently produced vodka.

For more information, visit albvodka.com and www.coldist.com.

Coors Whiskey Co.’s 8-Year-Old Blended American Malt Whiskey has made waves in the spirits industry by earning an impressive score of 98 points at the 2026 International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC), marking it as the highest-scoring malt whiskey in the country and securing a Gold Outstanding designation.

Crafted from a proprietary blend of malts, including those sourced from Colorado, this whiskey showcases a unique aging process where all components are matured for a minimum of eight years before bottling. Only 1,200 bottles of this exceptional whiskey will be available for purchase in Colorado and Illinois, with a suggested retail price of $80.

The whiskey is produced under the auspices of Coors, a name synonymous with American brewing since 1873. Recently, the company has expanded its portfolio to include spirits through its subsidiary, Coors Spirits Co., which debuted its first whiskey, Five Trail Blended American Whiskey, in 2021. By 2023, Coors had also acquired a stake in Blue Run Spirits, further thrusting it into the spirits market.

Judges at the IWSC were captivated by the whiskey’s aromas, which included caramelized peaches, iced tea, beeswax, and creamy vanilla. The tasting notes revealed hints of tropical fruit and milk chocolate on the palate, all culminating in a long, savory finish.

This blended malt whiskey is distilled in Bardstown, Kentucky, and is classified differently from traditional single malts, using a series of undisclosed mashbills. The blend’s extensive maturation and the expertise Coors has amassed over the years in brewing have been critically acknowledged, positioning it as a formidable player in the competitive spirits arena.

For those interested, Coors Whiskey Co.’s award-winning 8-Year-Old Blended American Malt Whiskey can surely delight both whiskey aficionados and newcomers alike, with its notable craftsmanship and flavorful complexities.

• International Wine & Spirit Competition
• Coors Spirits Co.

There’s a common belief that vodka is primarily made from potatoes, thanks to jokes and popular culture. However, this is a misconception. In reality, only around 3% of the world’s commercially produced vodka comes from potatoes, positioning it as an exception rather than the rule. Most well-known vodkas are actually derived from grains such as wheat, barley, and rye, with brands like Ketel One, Grey Goose, and Smirnoff primarily using wheat in their distillation process.

In addition to grains, other ingredients like corn are increasingly utilized, with Tito’s Handmade Vodka being a notable example. Indeed, potato vodkas are quite rare; at the time of writing, only 32 out of 481 vodkas listed on Difford’s Guide were potato-based.

Historically, potatoes did not even exist in the early production of vodka. The spirit’s origins—involving a disputed history between Poland and Russia—date back to the 1400s, while potatoes were introduced to Europe much later in the 1500s. Therefore, vodka is not consistently made from potatoes, and in fact, it’s more accurately characterized by its variety and grain-based compositions.

Is Potato Vodka Better Than Grain Vodka?

The assumption that potato vodka’s rarity adds a special quality to it is common, but whether it truly is superior to grain vodka remains subjective. Potato vodka offers a creamier mouthfeel and a subtle hint of sweetness, while grain vodka is often celebrated for its clean, crisp finish. The choice between them largely depends on personal preference—potato vodka might be more enjoyable for sipping, while grain vodka benefits cocktail versatility.

To fully appreciate their differences, a side-by-side taste test, such as with a classic vodka martini, can provide insights into the unique characteristics of each vodka type.

Whiskey expert Aaron Goldfarb, known for his book "Hacking Whiskey," has named Russell’s Reserve 13-Year-Old Bourbon as the best annual release. He highlights its consistent quality, steering clear of the hype often surrounding allocated whiskeys. The 2026 version pays tribute to master distiller Eddie Russell on his 45th anniversary with Wild Turkey. This bourbon, known for its deep flavors such as toffee and oak, comes bottled at a robust 121.2 proof and is crafted from barrels aged 14-18 years.

Despite its ultra-premium price point of $200, it can often be found at or near retail, which makes it accessible compared to many other allocated brands. Goldfarb points out that while some view Wild Turkey as a budget brand, true connoisseurs recognize the sophisticated craftsmanship of the Russell family, which has been evident for generations.

Goldfarb’s endorsement of Russell’s Reserve 13 raises the question of whether it could be considered the best yearly bourbon release. He confidently asserts its value amidst a plethora of overhyped offerings that flood the market each year. The uniqueness of the Russell’s Reserve 13 stems from its non-chill filtered, barrel-proof nature, making it a genuine choice for bourbon aficionados rather than a luxury item aimed at a wealthier audience.

For years, the Russell family has been committed to creating high-quality bourbon, leading to a long-standing appreciation among enthusiasts. Their latest release further establishes Russell’s Reserve 13 as a standout choice for those seeking a rich and flavorful bourbon experience.

There’s a common joke that suggests potatoes are the go-to source for making vodka: "Potatoes make french fries, chips, and vodka. It’s like the other vegetables aren’t even trying." However, this notion is misleading. In reality, only about 3% of the world’s vodka is produced from potatoes. Most well-known vodkas, such as Ketel One, Grey Goose, and Smirnoff, are distilled from grains like wheat, barley, and rye. Even corn is increasingly utilized, with brands like Tito’s Handmade Vodka leading the way.

An examination of vodka varieties reveals the rarity of potato-based options. On platforms like Difford’s Guide, only 32 out of 481 vodka entries are made from potatoes, highlighting their unusual status in the market. Furthermore, potatoes were introduced to Europe in the 1500s, well after vodka was first recorded in the 1400s, debunking the idea that they could have been the original ingredient for this spirit.

When it comes to the qualities of potato vodka compared to grain vodka, opinions vary. Potato vodka offers a creamy texture and retains a hint of earthiness, making it ideal for sipping. Conversely, grain vodka tends to have a clean, crisp finish and is versatile for cocktails. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference, with each type offering distinct characteristics worth exploring.

For those curious to experience the differences firsthand, making a classic vodka martini with both potato and grain vodka can reveal their unique flavors. This simple drink allows vodka lovers to appreciate the contrasts between these two distinct styles of vodka.