November 2024 118
From Starbucks to Spiced Rum: How One Exec’s Bold Move and Smart Strategies Caught Howard Schultz’s Eye
Marc-Kwesi Farrell made headlines when he stepped down from his role as the youngest vice president at Starbucks at age 33 to launch his own rum brand, Ten To One. His journey from coffee to rum is rooted in his Caribbean heritage and the lessons he learned during his tenure at Starbucks.
Farrell’s time at Starbucks served as a "finishing school," where he gained invaluable experience in e-commerce, retail, and beverage innovation. One pivotal moment came when he met former CEO Howard Schultz, who later became an investor in Ten To One. Despite Starbucks being a global coffee giant, Farrell found that the entrepreneurial spirit instilled in him led to a successful transition into the spirits industry.
Ten To One, launched in late 2018, now features a range of rums available in nearly 5,000 establishments across the U.S., gaining recognition as one of the fastest-growing premium rum brands. Priced between $33 and $65 a bottle, the brand aims to reshape consumer perceptions of rum—moving away from its stereotypical image tied to slushy cocktails and hangovers.
Farrell credits three key strategies for his success:
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Defining a Clear Purpose: Farrell emphasizes the importance of having a strong sense of purpose, as inspired by Schultz. He aims to celebrate and reinvigorate the cultural significance of rum, which is deeply entwined in Caribbean life.
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Mastering Storytelling: Farrell learned the power of storytelling from Schultz. He believes that communicating the brand’s story is essential to its success and encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to share their narratives frequently to attract interest and feedback.
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Embracing Imperfection: Farrell’s leap into entrepreneurship involved acknowledging that waiting for perfection can hinder progress. By sharing his ideas early on, he was able to refine his vision and attract investors, including musician Ciara, who became a co-owner.
Ultimately, Farrell’s journey underscores the impact of corporate experience on entrepreneurship, illustrating how clear vision, effective storytelling, and willingness to adapt lead to success in new ventures.
Drunk Driver Attempts to Escape Scene of Fatal Arlington Crash by Disposing of Evidence
A 27-year-old man, Thomas Kelly Jr., is under arrest in Arlington, Texas, following a tragic incident early Saturday morning that resulted in the death of a motorcycle rider. Kelly faces serious charges including intoxication manslaughter, collision involving death, and tampering with evidence.
The incident took place shortly after 1 a.m. on North Collins Street near NE Green Oaks Boulevard, where a 2004 Chevy Silverado collided head-on with a Harley Davidson motorcycle. The 55-year-old rider, identified as Richard Wing from Dallas, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Witnesses reported that Kelly was driving the Silverado erratically, swerving between lanes as he attempted to pass other vehicles. He struck the motorcycle as it was turning. In a chaotic aftermath, Kelly disposed of beer cans from his vehicle into a nearby field and attempted to flee the scene. A passerby chased after him, detaining him until police arrived.
Though he refused to participate in field sobriety tests, police officers noted signs of intoxication and subsequently discovered several beer cans in the area where witnesses saw him tossing items. A blood sample has been taken and will be sent for analysis. Kelly is currently being held at the Arlington City Jail.
Carmelo Anthony Enters the Wine Industry with a Bold New Venture
Carmelo Anthony is making significant strides in the wine industry with his partnership with the renowned Robert Mondavi Winery to launch a new wine named "Ode to Soul." This robust red blend features grapes sourced from the famous To Kalon Vineyards in California. It represents the second release from Anthony’s wine brand, VII(N) The Seventh Estate, which he co-founded with Asani Swann in 2022, just prior to his retirement from the NBA.
Although basketball and wine might not appear to go hand in hand, for Anthony, wine appreciation has been a part of his lifestyle since his days as a rookie with the Denver Nuggets. He reminisced about the challenges he faced in his early wine journey, noting that consuming wine at a young age was often frowned upon. As his palate developed, he sought to carve out a niche within the wine community.
Anthony recalled traveling with wine and sharing it with teammates, successfully introducing stars like LeBron James and Chris Paul to the world of wine. His influence is seen in the NBA’s increasing embrace of wine, illustrated by the league’s recent partnership with Kendall-Jackson and several players, including Dwyane Wade and Stephen Curry, launching their own wine labels.
Recognizing the money he was spending on wine, Anthony decided to invest in his own brand. He is involved in all aspects of the business and is determined to make a mark in a highly competitive market. His wines come with a hefty price tag—Ode to Soul is priced at $275, while its predecessor Ode to Fidelity costs $135. However, he is aware of this and plans to introduce more affordable options in the future.
Anthony aims to diversify his offerings on an international scale, looking to produce wines from countries such as Argentina, New Zealand, Portugal, and South Africa. Furthermore, he and Swann are intent on addressing the lack of diversity in the wine industry, where less than 1% of wineries in the U.S. are black-owned. They hope to highlight various career opportunities within the wine sector to encourage greater representation.
Through his journey, Anthony hopes to inspire others and demonstrate the hard work that goes into building a brand in the wine industry. He believes that by sharing his experiences and challenges, he can help open doors for more individuals in this field.
Is Beer the Same as Malt Liquor? Exploring the Differences and Which One Is Better
Beer and malt liquor are popular alcoholic beverages that have distinct differences, despite their similarities. Understanding these differences can enhance one’s drinking experience and help in making informed choices.
What is Beer?
Beer is an alcoholic drink made from four primary ingredients: water, malted barley, hops, and yeast. The brewing process involves mashing the malted barley, which converts starches into sugars. Hops are then added for bitterness, followed by yeast to ferment the sugars, resulting in alcohol and carbonation. Beer comes in various styles such as ales, lagers, stouts, and porters, each offering unique flavors and aromas, making it a favored social drink worldwide.
What is Malt Liquor?
Malt liquor is a stronger variant of beer, typically boasting a higher alcohol content. It often includes adjuncts like corn or rice, which enhance sugar levels for fermentation, giving it a sweeter taste. Despite being perceived as a low-class beverage, many craft malt liquors offer rich flavors and complexity.
Key Differences
The primary distinction between malt liquor and beer lies in their alcohol content; malt liquor usually has an alcohol by volume (ABV) ranging from 5% to 12% or more, compared to beer’s typical 4% to 5% ABV. This higher alcohol concentration makes malt liquor capable of producing quicker intoxication effects. Flavor profiles also differ; traditional beers rely on hops for bitterness, while malt liquors tend to be sweeter due to the adjuncts used.
Which One is Better?
The preference for beer or malt liquor is subjective. Those who enjoy a variety of flavors and styles might gravitate towards traditional beers, whereas those looking for stronger options at lower prices may prefer malt liquor. Both drinks have unique qualities that cater to different tastes and occasions, allowing consumers to choose according to their preferences.
World Whiskey Society Unveils Hazmat Wyatt Earp 13-Year-Old: A Bold New Release
The World Whiskey Society (WWS) has exciting news for whiskey lovers: the upcoming release of the Wyatt Earp 13-Year-Old American Whiskey Hazmat Edition. Known for its exclusive limited releases, WWS is recognized for producing rare whiskeys, and this latest edition lives up to its reputation.
The Hazmat Edition whiskey boasts an impressive 160-proof and is comprised of a mash bill featuring 73% malted barley, 14.9% malted rye, and 12.1% malted wheat. It has been expertly matured for thirteen years, resulting in a rich and multifaceted flavor profile. Enthusiasts can expect aromas of raisins, berries, vanilla custard, and oak. The palate is highlighted by notes of dark berries, spices, and a long warming finish that presents a delightful blend of dried fruits and gentle smoke.
Alex Kogan, the CEO of WWS, expressed his enthusiasm, stating that this release "truly pushes the boundaries of what whiskey can be." It’s crafted for those who appreciate intricate flavors and boldness, embodying the legendary spirit of Wyatt Earp himself.
For those interested in acquiring a bottle, the Wyatt Earp 13-Year-Old American Whiskey Hazmat Edition is expected to be available for purchase online at the WWS shop and selected retailers, retailing for around $249.
For more information, you can check out the World Whiskey Society shop for this eagerly awaited release.
Celebrating Thanksgiving: Cocktails Inspired by Your Favorite Side Dishes
Kodi Satra, the Beverage Manager at Tattersall Distilling, has introduced an innovative cocktail line designed to celebrate traditional Thanksgiving side dishes. Featuring flavors inspired by classic staples like pumpkin, stuffing, and cranberry, these fall cocktails aim to replicate the essence of the season’s favorite dishes in liquid form.
By incorporating elements such as roasted butternut squash and aromatic spices, Satra has crafted drinks that not only pay homage to Thanksgiving favorites but also offer a unique and festive twist for gatherings this holiday season. The cocktails are designed to complement the flavors of a traditional Thanksgiving meal, making them perfect for enjoyment alongside family and friends.
As the holiday approaches, these drinks offer a way to enhance the festive atmosphere, providing an intriguing alternative to standard beverage options. Whether celebrating at home or bringing a special touch to a gathering, these cocktails encapsulate the spirit of Thanksgiving in every sip.
Swirl, Sniff, and Savor: Introducing New Mexico Wine’s Viva Vino Wine Studio
New Mexico Wine has launched its highly anticipated tasting room, the Viva Vino Wine Studio, in Old Town. Situated on the second floor of Don Luis Plaza alongside other local wineries, this intimate space is dedicated to immersing visitors in New Mexico’s vibrant wine culture.
Christopher Goblet, the executive director of New Mexico Wine, emphasized that the studio represents years of planning, research, and creative input, aiming to showcase the best wines from across the state. The space will facilitate curated wine tasting experiences while educating visitors about the distinct grape varieties and regional nuances of New Mexico wines.
At the launch, the wine studio featured selections from various wineries such as Amaro Winery, Casa Rondeña, and Vivác Winery, enabling guests to explore a diverse range of offerings. The studio plans to enrich the visitor experience with seasonal events, wine education workshops, and opportunities to connect with local winemakers.
A standout feature of the studio is its interactive digital tasting table, developed in partnership with Ideum and supported by a Visit Albuquerque grant. This first-of-its-kind technology allows visitors to engage in guided tastings, exploring the aroma and flavor profiles of selected wines via a large touchscreen interface.
The opening of Viva Vino Wine Studio marks an exciting chapter in New Mexico’s wine tourism scene, building upon the success of the state’s popular wine festivals which attract thousands annually. More information can be found at nmwinestudio.com.
The New York World Spirits Competition Reveals the World’s Best Rum
The New York World Spirits Competition has crowned the best rum of 2024, awarding the title to Star & Key VSOP Single Cask rum, produced on the remote island of Mauritius. This rum triumphed over numerous competitors and earned the coveted Best in Show Distinction.
Held in Brooklyn, The New York World Spirits Competition is organized by The Tasting Alliance, which also manages the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. During the summer event, renowned beverage writers, producers, and bartenders conducted blind taste tests on various rums and spirits from around the world. While the Best in Class, double gold, gold, silver, and bronze awards were announced earlier, the Best in Show awards are now being revealed. Star & Key VSOP Single Cask was singled out as the top rum, coolly overshadowing others.
Despite facing some market fluctuations, rum sales have generally been on the rise, making it the fifth-best-selling spirit category in the U.S. However, the market did experience a decline between 2022 and 2023. Nevertheless, industry experts remain optimistic, foreseeing substantial growth for rum. There is a noticeable increase in demand for aged and premium rums, a trend reminiscent of those seen in the bourbon and tequila markets. This recognition elevates Star & Key VSOP Single Cask rum’s status even further.
What sets Star & Key VSOP Single Cask apart is its unique production process. Made in Mauritius, the rum encapsulates the island’s distinct terroir. The single-cask aging method grants each batch special character, leading to a tasting experience filled with inviting aromas of warm vanilla, caramel, and subtle spices. The full-bodied palate is noted for flavors of toffee, oak, and tropical fruit, with a long, smooth, and complex finish. Priced at $39.99 a bottle, it’s an accessible way to savor a piece of Mauritius if a trip to the island isn’t in the cards.
In the competition, other notable rums received accolades as well. The title of Best White Rum went to Palm Republic Rum Silver, praised for its vibrant citrus and tropical notes. Meanwhile, Pampero Aniversario Rum, a quality dark rum from Venezuela, was recognized for its rich notes of molasses, dark chocolate, and dried fruit.
For more details on these awards, visit the links below:
Elle Macpherson Opens Up About Her Struggles with Addiction: A Journey Through Solitude and Recovery
Elle Macpherson recently opened up about her struggles with addiction and self-image in her memoir, "Elle." The 60-year-old Australian supermodel shared the pivotal moments of her past, revealing how she battled alcoholism, especially during her downward spiral when she would often drink alone after putting her children to bed. "I was in a horrible downward spiral. Often, I would drink after I put my children to bed. I would sit down by myself and have shots of vodka," she recalled in an interview.
Macpherson, who has two sons, celebrated 20 years of sobriety in September. Her journey toward recovery was not just about quitting alcohol but addressing deeper emotional challenges. "It’s not just drinking; we can be addicted to fear, we can be addicted to drama," she explained. Her focus during recovery shifted to health and spirituality, leading her to establish her health brand, WelleCo.
In 2017, Macpherson faced another battle when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. After undergoing an initial lumpectomy and confirming her diagnosis, she chose a holistic approach over traditional medical recommendations that included a mastectomy and chemotherapy. “Saying no to standard medical solutions was the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life,” she wrote in her memoir.
After months of holistic treatment and lifestyle changes, Macpherson is now in clinical remission. She expressed her newfound vitality, saying, "I have never felt better than I do now," and described this chapter in her life as a "new beginning." Macpherson emphasized gratitude and enthusiasm as she reflects on her life at 60, with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to her health.
10 Delightful Thanksgiving Gin Cocktails to Elevate Your Feast
10 Thanksgiving Gin Cocktails To Elevate Your Feast
As Thanksgiving approaches, elevating your holiday gathering can be as simple as incorporating gin into your cocktail menu. Once underrated, gin is experiencing a renaissance, praised for its versatility and ability to complement various flavors. Here are 10 gin cocktails that will infuse your Thanksgiving celebrations with unique and memorable flavors.
Kick Things Off In Style
Gin Tai G&T
Created by Marshall Minaya, Beverage Director at Valerie.
- 1 ½ oz Principe Apostoles Gin
- ¼ oz roasted walnut orgeat
- 1 tsp Giffard Apricot Liqueur
- 2 drops orange blossom water
- Fever Tree Premium Tonic
Combine all ingredients in a goblet glass filled with ice, then add 6 oz of tonic and garnish with fresh mint and an orange slice.
Festivo
Inspired by Acrónimo Spirits, which produces the world’s first gin finished with sotol.
- 1 oz Acrónimo Gin
- 1 oz Fino Sherry
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes orange bitters
Mix ingredients in a glass, chilling with ice before straining into a coupe glass. Garnish with an orange twist.
Mine Hill Martinez
From Mine Hill Distillery, this cocktail balances seasonal warmth with complex flavors.
- 1 ½ oz Mine Hill Gin
- 1 oz Mine Hill Amaro
- ½ oz Luxardo Liqueur
- Garnish: orange twist
Combine all ingredients, stir with ice, strain into a martini glass, and express the oils of an orange twist over the drink.
Take The Edge Off
Chivalry’s Gin Fizz
- 1 oz Joseph Magnus Vigilant District Dry Gin
- 0.5 oz cranberry juice
- 1 egg white
- Rosemary sprig for garnish
Shake all ingredients and strain into a rocks glass, garnishing with a sprig of rosemary.
Coppercraft Smoked Gin & Tonic
- 2 oz Coppercraft Gin
- 1 oz grapefruit juice
- Tonic water to top
- Rosemary for smoking
Combine in a highball glass with ice, then smoke with rosemary.
Classic Cocktails for After Dinner
Smoked Chai
- 2 oz Coppercraft Gin
- 0.5 oz agave syrup
- 8 oz water
- 4 oz whole milk
- 2 oz black tea
- Spices: cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, ginger, fennel seeds
Simmer the ingredients in a saucepan, then strain and mix in the gin and agave syrup.
Lighthouse Gin Wassail
This festive drink makes enough for a group.
- 2 oz Lighthouse Gin
- Assorted fresh juices (apple, orange, grapefruit, pineapple, lemon)
- Spices: cloves, cinnamon sticks, star anise, nutmeg, fresh ginger
Boil ingredients, then simmer for an hour. Serve with gin added to the hot mixture, garnished with cinnamon sticks and dried fruit.
Incorporating these cocktails into your Thanksgiving festivities will surely impress your guests and create a memorable gathering. Cheers!