April 2025 91
Whiskey Myers Set to Rock Brandon Amphitheater on Their Upcoming Tour!
Whiskey Myers is set to perform at the Brandon Amphitheater soon, attracting excitement among fans of the Texas country-rock band. Known for their dynamic live shows and distinctive sound, Whiskey Myers has gained a loyal following since their formation in 2007. The concert promises to showcase tracks from their latest album and classic hits, ensuring an unforgettable experience for attendees. As they gear up for the performance, anticipation is building for what has become a highlight in the region’s music calendar.
For more details on the concert and ticket availability, visit WJTV Jackson.
Turning Challenges into Opportunities: How Tariffs Could Benefit U.S. Whiskey Makers
President Donald Trump’s trade policies have significantly impacted U.S. whiskey makers, prompting major retailers in Canada to remove American liquor from their shelves. Amidst this crisis, investor Brian Rosen offers a different perspective, suggesting that tariffs may unintentionally benefit small, American whiskey brands.
Rosen, founder and general partner at InvestBev, argues that while Canadian tariffs seem detrimental, they could make foreign whiskies—particularly from Japan, Ireland, Scotland, and Canada—appear more expensive compared to American whiskey, enhancing the latter’s appeal to consumers. This could be a silver lining for many smaller whiskey producers, allowing them to maintain their prices while competing against international brands that may see their costs rise.
InvestBev, which holds a diverse portfolio of alcohol brands, strategically increased exports following Trump’s election in 2024 to avoid the brunt of the tariffs. Rosen indicates that this foresight placed InvestBev in a favorable position within the market.
However, it’s important to note that while larger players like Diageo and Pernod Ricard express grave concerns about potential job losses and decreased profitability due to tariffs, smaller distilleries often don’t have the same level of international exposure. According to Rosen, only a small fraction of Kentucky bourbon is exported, suggesting that domestic-focused distillers may not be hit as hard by these international market fluctuations.
Despite these potential benefits outlined by Rosen, a broader economic landscape reveals challenges for small U.S. whiskey producers. The Distilled Spirits Council has reported a record increase in U.S. spirits exports in 2024, but ongoing trade disputes create uncertainty, hindering growth opportunities for many distillers.
Many small distilleries are actively seeking exemptions from tariffs, indicating their concerns about rising costs for imported goods used in production. This reflects a wider reality wherein tariffs are complicating the supply chain for U.S. businesses, affecting both large corporations and small-scale producers.
As the trade environment evolves, the impact of tariffs will continue to be a contentious issue within the whiskey industry, making Rosen’s contrarian view both intriguing and indicative of the complexity of U.S. trade policies.
Detroit City Distillery Launches ‘Flower Day Vodka’ Infused with Lavender and Lemon
Detroit City Distillery is set to launch a new limited-edition spirit called Flower Day Vodka, designed to celebrate the iconic Flower Day in Eastern Market. This unique vodka is crafted by distilling Michigan lavender with lemon in 100% corn vodka sourced from Michigan.
The ingredient list is clean, featuring no artificial flavors, colorings, or sweeteners, and the vodka is noted for its refreshing combination of lemon and lavender flavors. Local artist Ivan Montoya has contributed to the design of the bottle, adding a creative touch to the product.
The Flower Day Vodka will be available for purchase starting May 9, ahead of the annual Eastern Market Flower Day taking place on May 18. Visitors on May 9 can also take part in a special event at the tasting room where they can create their own flower bouquets from Flowers for Dreams, perfect for celebrating Mother’s Day.
The distillery describes Flower Day as a cherished holiday for Detroit residents, symbolizing the arrival of spring and the joy of blooming flowers just after Mother’s Day. The price for each bottle is set at $35.
Sip into Summer: Refreshing Agave Cocktails to Try This Season
It’s becoming increasingly common to encounter menus at bars and restaurants filled with agave-based cocktails, extending beyond just traditional margaritas to a diverse range that includes mezcal. No longer confined to Mexican establishments, these drinks have taken over the cocktail scene.
The Transformation of Tequila
Tequila, once viewed as the rowdy party drink of choice, has evolved significantly. Once a staple for college celebrations, it is now appreciated for its complex flavors and quality, often showcased in tasting flights and lavish venues. Tequila is no longer just a shooter; it has transformed into a luxury item that celebrities endorse, mixologists celebrate, and consumers gladly savor.
Understanding Agave
Agave plants, common to the arid regions of the Americas, are essential for producing tequila, which has roots dating back to Aztec traditions. Early forms of this spirit, like pulque, were utilized long before the advent of modern distillation techniques. The first tequila factory was established in the 1600s in Tequila, Jalisco, and officially began adhering to stringent production rules in 1974, which stipulate that it must be made in Jalisco from blue Weber agave.
Agave vs. Mezcal
While tequila is strictly regulated, mezcal is more versatile, made from a wide variety of agave plants. This variability contributes to its complex flavor, typified by a smoky aroma distinct from tequila’s sweetness. In contrast, lesser-known agave spirits like raicilla, sotol, and bacanora offer intriguing alternatives, though they remain less accessible outside Mexico.
As Cinco de Mayo approaches, Long Island boasts many establishments that expertly craft tequila and mezcal cocktails, from timeless classics to innovative creations.
Notable Places for Agave Cocktails
Besito: Classic Margarita
Located at 402 New York Ave., Huntington, Besito offers an authentic taste of Mexican cuisine alongside its traditional margaritas, renowned for their freshness. More information can be found at besitomexican.com.
T-Bar: Jalapeño-Cucumber Margarita
T-Bar, a chic venue at 1363 Old Northern Blvd, Roslyn, combines a vibrant atmosphere with a daily happy hour and a variety of margaritas, perfectly suited for any palate. Visit tbar.li for more details.
Ixchel Mexican: Cielo
At 130 Old Town Rd, Setauket-East Setauket, Ixchel offers a unique cocktail experience with options inspired by Mayan culture, including the refreshing Cielo cocktail. Check out ixchelmexicancuisine.com for their full menu.
The Green Door: Smoked Pineapple Mule
This upscale cocktail bar at 121 N. Wellwood Ave., Lindenhurst, is known for its inventive drinks, including the Smoked Pineapple Mule, which can be customized with mezcal. More information is available at thegreendoorlindenhurst.com.
Ruta Oaxaca: Tequila and Mezcal Flights
With locations in Patchogue and Woodbury, Ruta Oaxaca features an extensive selection of over 150 tequilas and 175 mezcals, offering educational flights and creative cocktails. Learn more at rutaoaxacamex.com.
Long Island’s cocktail scene is thriving with agave-based options that elevate the drinking experience, showcasing both tradition and innovation.
The Shift in Belarus: Why Vodka and Beer Are No Longer the Drink of Choice
Recent data from Belarus’s National Statistics Committee reveals a notable decline in alcohol sales for the first quarter of 2025. Vodka sales dropped from 1.9795 million decaliters in the first three months of 2024 to 1.9277 million decaliters in the same period of 2025, marking a decrease of 2.6%.
In addition to vodka, the sales of grape and fruit wines also saw reductions of 2.9% and 7%, respectively. Sales of liqueurs and liquor products dipped slightly by 0.2%, while beer sales decreased by 1.4%. Nevertheless, beer remains popular, with sales still reaching 8.912 million decaliters, down from 9.0369 million decaliters a year prior.
On a more positive note, some categories experienced growth. Sales of cognac, cognac drinks, and brandy surged by 8.1%, while low-alcoholic beverages increased by 6.7%. Sparkling wines and champagne also saw a rise of 4.5%, with other alcoholic beverages increasing by 4.3%.
These trends indicate shifting preferences among consumers in Belarus, reflecting broader changes in alcohol consumption habits.
For more details, visit tochka.by.
Scots Vodka Queen Tied to Notorious Kinahan Cartel Spotted in Spain Amid Explosive Turf War
The manager of a Scottish vodka company, Nicola Morrissey, 49, who has connections to the infamous Kinahan crime cartel, has been seen publicly in Marbella, Spain, for the first time since her arrest. Accompanied by her husband, Johnny ‘Cash’ Morrissey, 65, the couple was spotted dining at an Indian restaurant near their luxurious residence.
The Morrisseys were arrested as part of a global investigation led by the U.S., where Johnny is accused of laundering over £170 million for the Kinahan crime gang. This group is linked to a turf war currently affecting Glasgow and Edinburgh. Meanwhile, Nicola’s vodka company, Nero Drinks, continues to operate from a discreet office in Glasgow. A source revealed that Nicola’s family is concerned about escalating gang-related violence in Scotland and is relieved she is in Spain.
Previously, Nicola had registered her business at a family property but later shifted it to a more anonymous location. Since her arrest, she has not returned to Scotland and seems to be aware of the violent disputes driven by the Kinahan network.
Nicola, originally from Stepps, Lanarkshire, founded her drinks company seven years ago, with ties to high-profile events and sponsorships such as the Hamilton Academical football club and the Marbella International Film Festival. The company has been associated with luxury and celebrity circles, but authorities have now deemed it a front for the cartel’s operations in the U.S.
After her and Johnny’s arrests in April 2022, Nicola was released without charges, while Johnny was granted bail amid ongoing investigations. Their lavish lifestyle includes a £4.5 million mansion and another villa in Costa del Sol. The couple’s connection to the Kinahan cartel has put them in the limelight, leading to concerns over their safety amidst increasing violence in Scotland.
Exploring Liquid Sunshine: Hawaii’s Thriving Craft Beer, Wine, and Spirits Scene
Hawaiians are celebrated for their innovative utilization of the islands’ rich agricultural resources, creating local beverages that honor and reflect the “aina” (land) of Hawaii. The landscape offers a plethora of ingredients for brewing beer, making wine, and distilling spirits, resulting in unique creations like coconut-infused porter, honey mead, and wines crafted from pineapples and volcanic grapes.
For those eager to explore Hawaiian alcoholic delights, there exists a variety of family-run establishments that offer educational and engaging tasting experiences. Here’s a curated guide to Hawaii’s vibrant craft beer, organic wine, and artisan spirits scene.
Kauai
- Kauai Beer Company: Located in Lihue, this brewery brews IPAs, German-style lagers, and an array of seasonal beers alongside a taproom menu with diverse food pairings. Visit at kauaibeer.com.
- Kaua’i Island Brewery & Grill: Nestled near Port Allen, this brewery is known for fresh seafood dishes and over a dozen beers on tap. More info at kauaiislandbrewing.com.
- Kōloa Rum Company: Made from pure sugar cane and rainwater, this rum is perfect for cocktails, with a tasting room at the historic Kilohana plantation. Details at koloarum.com.
- Nani Moon Meadery: Offers exotic honey wines in Kapa’a, featuring unique flavors like coffee-infused mead. Explore more at nanimoonmead.com.
- Hanalei Spirits Distillery: This distillery emphasizes local ingredients to craft rum, gin, and vodka, with tasting tours available. Check out hanaleispirits.com.
Maui
- Maui Brewing Company: As the largest craft brewer in Hawaii, its lineup includes the popular Bikini Blonde Lager and Coconut Hiwa Porter. Visit at mauibrewingco.com.
- Maui Aleworks: Known for rustic, farmhouse ales, this brewery offers an array of unique brews and is a recent addition to Maui’s beer scene. More at mahaloaleworks.com.
- Kohola Brewery: This brewery, in collaboration with Kona Brewing, features a range of ales and an on-site café serving local cuisine. Learn more at koholabrewery.com.
- Hali’imaile Distilling: Uses local pineapple to create premium spirits such as Pau Maui vodka and Paniolo Whiskey. Details at haliimailedistilling.com.
- MauiWine: Located on the slopes of Mount Haleakala, this winery is known for its pineapple wines and offers free tasting tours. Explore at mauiwine.com.
- Ocean Organic Farm and Distillery: Produces vodka using deep-ocean water and organic sugar cane, also providing tours of their sugar cane farm. Visit at oceanvodka.com.
Oahu
- Aloha Beer Company: Based in Honolulu, it offers a variety of beers with tropical flavors in its vibrant taproom. Check out alohabeer.com.
- KoHana Rum: Specializes in rums made from its own hand-harvested sugar cane, offering daily tasting tours. More on kohanarum.com.
- Koʻolau Distillery: This distillery crafts innovative spirits using local ingredients; tours available for tasting. More info at koolaudistillery.com.
- Hawaiian Shochu Company: The only shochu producer in Hawaii, crafting unique spirits from locally-sourced ingredients. Learn more at hishochu.com.
- Hawaii Honey & Mead: Oahu’s only craft meadery offers a flavorful mead using Hawaiian honey. Visit manoahoney.com.
Hawaii Island
- Kona Brewing Company: A veteran of the Hawaiian brewing scene, known for its vast variety of beers. Tours are available at konabrewinghawaii.com.
- Big Island Brewhaus: Offers a selection of award-winning craft beers and a menu with local dishes. Visit at bigislandbrewhaus.com.
- Wailuku Brew Works: Features craft beer and mead in a social hub for locals and visitors alike. More at wailukubrewworks.com.
- 12th Hawaii Distillery: Specializes in honey-based spirits, offering maceration processes unique to each bottle. Explore at 12thhawaiidistiller.com.
- Kuleana Rum Works: Uses heirloom sugarcane for its unique rums, open for tasting tours. More on kuleana.com.
- Ola Brew Company: This brewery produces small batches of uniquely flavored beverages reflective of island culture. More at olabrewco.com.
- Volcano Winery: The winery grows grapes infused with tropical fruits, offering tours for a taste of local innovation. Visit at volcanowinery.com.
Embark on your journey through Hawaii’s craft beverage scene and immerse yourself in the flavors that celebrate the unique connection between the land and its people.
Sip the Big Apple: 8 Iconic Cocktails Inspired by New York City
New York City has long served as a muse for countless cocktails, with some of the most iconic drinks originating from its vibrant bars. Foremost among these is the Manhattan, a classic blend of rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and aromatic bitters. First mixed in the 1880s, the Manhattan’s simple yet delightful composition has earned it a place in cocktail lore and inspired countless variations over the years.
Close on its heels is the Brooklyn, a cocktail likely conceived shortly after the Manhattan gained fame. Made with rye whiskey, dry vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and Amer Picon, its revival began alongside the modern craft cocktail movement of the early 2000s. This resurgence prompted bartenders to put their spins on the drink, yielding variations named after Brooklyn neighborhoods such as the Red Hook and Bushwick.
In addition to these celebrated classics, the city also inspires unique cocktails like the Algonquin, which mixes rye whiskey, dry vermouth, and pineapple juice, and the Adonis, an alluring mix of sherry and sweet vermouth. Below are some of the most notable cocktails inspired by the city that never sleeps:
1. Manhattan
The quintessential New York City cocktail, the Manhattan combines rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, solidifying its status as one of the world’s most beloved whiskey drinks.
2. Brooklyn
This pre-Prohibition classic blends spicy rye whiskey with dry vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and the bittersweet French liqueur Amer Picon.
3. Red Hook
Created in 2003, this modern cocktail unites rye whiskey, maraschino liqueur, and Punt e Mes. It’s regarded as one of the early modern classics arising from the original Brooklyn recipe.
4. Newark
Though named for a New Jersey neighborhood, this cocktail is inspired by the Brooklyn. It substitutes rye whiskey for overproof apple brandy and uses sweet vermouth alongside Fernet-Branca instead of Amer Picon.
5. Adonis
This cocktail, a tribute to a Broadway show, harmonizes sherry and sweet vermouth, resulting in a surprisingly complex drink garnished with orange peel.
6. Bushwick
Created in 2009, this cocktail stays true to the original Brooklyn blend while focusing on rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and Amer Picon.
7. Algonquin
Originating from the post-Prohibition era, this drink combines rye whiskey, dry vermouth, and pineapple juice, creating a crisp, delightful sipper.
8. Greenpoint
Another Brooklyn graduate, created in 2006, it’s a modern classical concoction of rye whiskey, Yellow Chartreuse, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
From classic to contemporary, these cocktails epitomize the spirit of New York City, celebrating its rich bar culture and cocktail heritage. Whether at home or in a bustling bar, these drinks are sure to bring a taste of the Big Apple to your glass.
Unveiling the World’s Best Whiskey: Highlights from the 2025 London Spirits Competition
The London Spirits Competition recently awarded WL Weller Antique 107 the prestigious title of the world’s best whiskey for 2025. In its eighth edition, this competition sets itself apart by evaluating not only the liquid itself but also the look, value, and marketability of the products. The aim is to spotlight spirits that consumers genuinely want to buy, making it relevant for both enthusiasts and industry professionals.
WL Weller Antique 107, produced by Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, achieved an impressive score of 99 out of 100, earning it the distinction of whiskey of the year and spirit of the year overall. This wheated bourbon, often abbreviated as OWA (Old Weller Antique), is renowned for its balance and complexity. Its tasting notes feature a rich nose of cassia bark and licorice, alongside a sweet palate enriched by vanilla and brûléed sugars. This harmonious blend leads to a lengthy finish, with a subtle hint of cherry fruit leather.
The bourbon’s stature comes not just from its individual qualities but also from a robust heritage. It shares a mashbill with the celebrated Pappy Van Winkle line, further enhancing its appeal among bourbon enthusiasts. Historically significant, Weller was named after William Larue Weller, who was instrumental in popularizing wheated bourbons in the 19th century.
With its classic profile and growing recognition, WL Weller Antique 107 is a must-try for whiskey lovers and a noteworthy selection for bars and restaurants seeking high-quality spirits that are favored in the marketplace.
Kicking Off 2025 Sacramento Beer Week: The Excitement of Brewers Cup
The 2025 Sacramento Beer Week kicked off with a spirited stout competition held at the Crest Theater, where an impressive lineup of over 200 breweries gathered to compete for the coveted title of California’s best beer. Attendees and brew enthusiasts flocked to the event, eager to taste a diverse range of brews and celebrate local craft beer culture.
The weeks-long festivities included various events such as tastings, educational sessions, and brewery tours, highlighting the vitality of the craft beer scene in Sacramento. With each year, this celebration grows, attracting more participants and showcasing the creativity and passion of California’s breweries.
The anticipation leading into Beer Week is palpable, as both beer lovers and industry professionals look forward to discovering new flavors and networking opportunities. For those involved, it represents not just competition and entertainment, but a vibrant community thriving around craft beer.