May 2025 98
Wine Press: Embracing the Joy of Wine After a Surprising Hiatus
In early January, Ken Ross found himself engrossed in the pleasures of wine, only to face an unexpected medical emergency that abruptly altered his relationship with it. Following his serious injury and subsequent hospitalization, Ken spent weeks recovering and found that wine became the furthest thing from his mind. Craving comfort foods like chicken noodle soup and Jell-O, he inadvertently entered a period without wine that extended into February and March.
Upon returning home in March, he was eager to reconnect with his favorite beverages. However, when he took his first sip of single malt Scotch, it was shockingly bitter, far from the smoothness he remembered. The same disappointment followed when he tried a beloved red wine, leading him to worry about whether his taste for wine had vanished permanently—something that felt profoundly unsettling for someone so deeply embedded in the wine community.
Time passed without wine, and life continued, yet Ken’s concerns lingered. One hopeful Friday night, he tasted a sip of his wife’s white wine, the 2022 Appassionata Uber Sauvignon Blanc, and was pleased to discover it tasted “normal”—refreshingly delightful after his long hiatus. He hesitated to indulge fully, fearing a repeat of his earlier disappointment.
The following Saturday, deciding to celebrate his return to wine, he opened a bottle of 2018 Tenuta Sant Antonio Castagnedi Amarone Della Valpolicella. The experience was transformative; the wine tasted remarkable after two months without it, offering rich flavors of sandalwood and dark fruit that he had missed.
Encouraged by this success, Ken explored more wines, including a 2020 Famiglia Pasqua Ripasso and other selections that reignited his passion, including favorites from Italy’s renowned regions. He was thrilled to enjoy single malt Scotch once again and discover new wines with excitement.
Through this journey, Ken rediscovered the joys of wine that had once defined a significant part of his identity. Finally, the familiar taste of wine brought him back to himself amidst challenges, and he felt a renewed appreciation for this cherished beverage.
From Fighting Roosters to Viking Warriors: The Fascinating Origin of Whiskey Myers’ Name
Whenever you ask the East Texas Southern rock band Whiskey Myers about the origin of their name, you’re bound to get a different story each time. With the recent announcement of their seventh studio album, Whomp Whack Thunder, it’s the perfect moment to look back at the entertaining tales they’ve shared over the years.
Unlike many bands who clearly state the inspiration behind their name, Whiskey Myers has opted for secrecy. They made a pact to keep their name’s origin under wraps but have still had fun spinning various yarns for fans asking about it. Since their growth following the release of their album Early Morning Shakes in 2015, they’ve presented increasingly imaginative responses to the question.
The band is known for weaving elaborate stories around their name. They’ve claimed it comes from an ancient Viking word or a romantic term from Rome, while lead singer Cody Cannon has humorously declared it translates to “Spanish for a fighting chicken.” His story is a fan favorite, perhaps because he often serves as the spokesperson for the band.
In a report from 2016 by The State Journal-Register, it was suggested that their name originated from a local man named Myers, who lived near a river and was known for his constant drunkenness. The band allegedly borrowed the nickname "Whiskey" for their own use.
Recently, when asked about it, Cody shared a more colorful version:
“It’s from a fighting rooster. We used to be male strippers in Mexico, and we didn’t make very much money because we didn’t look good enough, so we had to start fighting chickens. That was the name of the two chickens… the best roosters. We had two… they were badasses.”
With such an array of stories, it seems the true origin of Whiskey Myers’ name may forever remain a mystery, adding to their mystique. As they continue to build their legacy, fans can look forward to hearing their lead single “Time Bomb” from the upcoming album.
Whomp Whack Thunder tracklist:
- Time Bomb
- Tailspin
- I Got To Move
- Rowdy Days
- Icarus
- Midnight Woman
- Break These Chains
- Born To Do
- Rock N Roll
- Ramblin’ Jones
- Monsters
The band will be on tour this year as part of their What We Were Born To Do Tour, with shows lined up across various states. Keep an eye on their schedule for a chance to catch them live!
Crafting Spirits: Insights from Bushmills’ Master Blender on Whiskey, Cocktails, and the Essence of Bushmills
Bushmills, the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery, has been crafting whiskey for an impressive 400 years, nestled in the stunning northern coast of Ireland. To celebrate the release of their remarkable 46-year-old Irish single malt, "Secrets of the River Bush," Shortlist visited the distillery to delve deeper into the whiskey-making craft.
In a conversation with Alex Thomas, Bushmills’ Master Blender, we explored her journey from an eager newcomer to a highly respected figure in the whiskey world. Alex’s journey began with her husband introducing her to a position at the distillery. Growing up nearby, she had always dreamed of working at Bushmills. Starting in the maturation team, Alex was captivated by the distilling process and the distillery’s commitment to tradition, sparking her passion for a career in whiskey.
In November 2021, she achieved her dream of becoming the Master Blender at Bushmills, a role she embraced with enthusiasm and honor.
During our discussion, Alex expressed her deep affection for the distillery, its heritage, and the people who have shaped its legacy. She emphasized that the magic of Bushmills lies in its dedicated workforce, who feel a sense of ownership and commitment to maintaining the distillery’s high standards. This culture of passion and care has allowed it to thrive while others have faltered.
For those new to the world of whiskey, Alex had some thoughtful advice. She encouraged aspiring whiskey drinkers to approach the experience with an open mind, recognizing that taste can vary based on context and individual experiences. She also highlighted the importance of cocktails, noting how they can enhance one’s introduction to whiskey and inspire creativity among mixologists.
As Irish whiskey continues to gain popularity, Alex’s vision for Bushmills seems clear: to honor its rich history while paving the way for future innovations. With the distillery’s enduring charm and the expertise of its leadership, it’s an exciting time for whiskey enthusiasts.
For more whiskey insights, check out The best whiskey in the world, taste tested!.
Introducing the Mother of Texas Whiskey: A Journey into Craft Distilling
Marcia Likarish embodies the spirit of adventure, exploration, and community, which has shaped her journey through motherhood and entrepreneurship. Rather than confining her world to home life after having her two sons, Robert and Jonathan, she opted to broaden their horizons by introducing them to travel and new experiences. This approach ingrained a love for adventure in the Likarish family’s foundation.
When her sons expressed their desire to start a whiskey distillery named Ironroot Republic, Marcia took it upon herself to aid their ambition. She accompanied them on a trip to Kentucky to learn from top distillers. During this pivotal visit, she discreetly placed their name on the waiting list for a new whiskey still from Vendome Copper & Brassworks, an esteemed manufacturer. Her firm belief in Ironroot led her to commit to the still two years before the distillery was established. Much to their surprise, the call from Vendome came when Ironroot was ready to start production; Marcia’s early action secured them a still, which became the heart of their award-winning whiskey.
Marcia’s entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond distilling. Her dedication to building community connections led her to engage with distillers across Texas, creating a network of support within the industry. This commitment earned her the affectionate title of "Mother of Texas Whiskey," a nod from her peers in recognition of her contributions and efforts.
Throughout her life, Marcia has demonstrated an unyielding curiosity and passion for sharing knowledge. Her involvement at Ironroot transcends business; she treats every barrel of whiskey as a cherished child, nurturing and guiding them to reach their full potential. For her, every bottle represents a time capsule filled with the hopes and efforts of countless people, making each sip a celebration of meaningful moments with friends and family.
Pep Guardiola’s Light-hearted Comeback: “I Will Take a Beer” – A Call to Manchester City Fans!
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed his anticipation for an invitation from fans to share a drink at a local pub. His comments came during a recent press conference amid a challenging season for the reigning Premier League champions, who still have three matches to play, including significant away games at Southampton and Fulham, and a final home match against Bournemouth. This concluding match will be particularly poignant, as it will mark Kevin De Bruyne’s last appearance at the Etihad Stadium.
Despite the hurdles faced during the season, Guardiola remains hopeful for celebration, especially with the upcoming FA Cup final against Crystal Palace on May 17. This final marks an important opportunity for the team to secure one last piece of silverware this season.
In discussing current challenges, Guardiola praised Vitor Pereira, the Wolves manager, for successfully steering his team away from relegation dangers. He acknowledged the season-to-season variations in managerial success and commended Pereira’s prior accomplishments, highlighting Wolves’ consistent performance and talent.
When told about Pereira’s practice of celebrating wins with Wolves fans at local pubs, Guardiola showed enthusiasm at the idea, humorously stating, “I like wine, but I will take a beer as well in that period." He is clearly ready to engage with Manchester City’s supporters outside of the pitch.
Looking ahead, Manchester City will also compete in the newly revamped FIFA Club World Cup this summer in the United States, providing another stage for potential success.
Navigating Non-Alcoholic Beer: Essential Insights for Those in Recovery
Life in recovery from alcohol addiction presents numerous challenges, including navigating various "firsts" in a new sober lifestyle. One aspect that many may consider is the consumption of non-alcoholic beer as a way to substitute the feelings associated with drinking alcohol.
While non-alcoholic beer seems innocuous at first glance, it can pose significant risks to those in recovery. The challenge lies in understanding the term "alcohol-free." Typically, products labeled as "alcohol-free" must contain no more than 0.05% alcohol by volume (ABV), and "non-alcoholic" can contain up to 0.5% ABV. Mindfully, some drinks marketed as "low-alcohol" can even contain up to 1.2% ABV. Although these amounts are considerably less than traditional beer, they still present potential triggers for someone recovering from alcohol dependence.
The greater concern may lie not in the physical alcohol content, but in the psychological effects of consuming something that resembles real beer. The scent, taste, and experience of drinking non-alcoholic beer can evoke cravings and memories from a person’s drinking history. Simple rituals, such as holding a beer or engaging in familiar drinking socialization, can trigger associations with previous drinking habits, complicating the recovery journey.
Experts advise against consuming non-alcoholic beer early in the recovery process when cravings and the risk of relapse are at their peak. For those engaged in structured recovery programs, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, the standard recommendation is to avoid anything that mimics the experience of drinking alcohol.
Ultimately, deciding whether non-alcoholic beer fits into a recovery plan is a personal choice that should be approached with caution. It is beneficial to discuss this consideration with a sponsor, therapist, or support group. Individuals should reflect on their motivations for wanting to consume non-alcoholic beer—whether it’s for social integration, craving the taste, or nostalgia for the drinking experience—so they can make a well-informed decision. Recovery paths differ significantly; what works for some might not work for others. Understanding the potential implications of consuming non-alcoholic beer can aid in making choices that support long-term sobriety.
Unveiling the Best Beers in the World: Highlights from the 2025 World Beer Cup
The 2025 World Beer Cup, regarded as the premier beer competition globally, took place in Indianapolis, Indiana, with the winners announced on May 1, 2025. This prestigious event, celebrated for its rigorous blind judging, sees breweries from across the world competing for recognition in various beer categories. Each year, the competition is held alongside the Craft Brewers Conference, drawing a large number of entries, with this edition featuring around 8,375 beers from 1,761 producers across 49 countries.
Despite a decline in overall entries compared to 2024, which reflects trends in the craft beer market, there were still notable statistics. Bart Watson, president and CEO of the Brewers Association, reported that 338 breweries participated in the World Beer Cup for the first time, indicating some segments of the industry are thriving even amidst stagnation.
Among the most entered styles were IPAs, with categories like Juicy or Hazy India Pale Ale leading with 290 entries. Interestingly, lager styles, particularly German-Style Pilsener and the rising trend of Hoppy Lager, also saw impressive entries.
Notable Winners
The following are some key winners from different categories:
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Category 1: American Wheat Beer
- Gold: Fuzztail, Sunriver Brewing Co., Sunriver, OR
- Silver: Lunar Fallout, Tilted Axis Brewing Co., Lapeer, MI
- Bronze: Spring Valley Silk Ale, Spring Valley Brewery, Shibuya, Japan
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Category 2: Fruit Beer
- Gold: Altstadt Radler, Altstadt Brewery, Fredericksburg, TX
- Silver: Hey Girl, Hey, Starr Hill Beer Hall & Rooftop, Richmond, VA
- Bronze: Limaveza, New Realm Brewing, Atlanta, GA
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Category 3: Fruit Wheat Beer
- Gold: Mango Cart, Golden Road Brewing Anaheim, Anaheim, CA
- Silver: Yuzu Weiss, Yokohama Bay Brewing Co., Yokohama, Japan
- Bronze: Samuel Adams Summer Ale, Boston Beer Co., Somerville, MA
The competition awarded medals across a staggering total of 112 categories, including unique styles like Experimental Beer, Gluten-Free Beer, and various fruit-infused brews. This year’s results reiterate a strong inclination towards innovation in brewing processes and styles, showcasing the evolution of beer preferences globally.
Conclusion
The World Beer Cup remains an essential platform for breweries to demonstrate their craft and creativity, enhancing visibility and sales. The trends observed in the beer entries highlight ongoing shifts within the industry, paving the way for new styles and flavors in an ever-competitive market.
Introducing Carbon-Negative Rum to Travel Retail: Two Drifters and Blue Caterpillar’s Vision for a Sustainable Future
Spirits distributor Blue Caterpillar has partnered with Two Drifters Distillery, a UK producer known for its carbon-negative rum, to bring their unique offerings to global travel retail. This agreement allows for the launch of Four core varieties: Pure White Rum, Signature Rum, Lightly Spiced Rum, and Overproof Spiced Pineapple Rum across North, Central, and South America starting in June.
Founded by Russ and Gemma Wakeham, Two Drifters is notable for its commitment to sustainability—each bottle produced removes over 1kg of CO₂ from the atmosphere. Their operations utilize renewable energy and advanced carbon capture technology in collaboration with Climeworks to surpass their carbon emissions. Packaging is also eco-friendly, featuring lightweight glass bottles made in the UK, compostable seals, and labels crafted from waste sugarcane fiber.
The timing of this partnership coincides with a notable shift in the rum market, where a growing demand for premium products aligns with increasing consumer awareness of sustainable practices. This makes Two Drifters’ offerings compelling for those seeking exceptional flavors coupled with strong sustainability credentials.
Dr. Russ Wakeham expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting their ambition to capture 1% of the global rum market by 2035 while making a positive environmental impact. Michael Gebrael, CEO of Blue Caterpillar, affirmed that Two Drifters exemplifies the innovative and quality-driven brand ethos they aim to promote.
Reclaiming Haitian Heritage: The Story of Melky Jean and Saint Sauveur 1972 Rum
Melky Jean’s Saint Sauveur Rum stands as a testament to Haitian heritage and the narrative of resilience rooted in the 1972 refugee story, marking a significant chapter in Haitian history. This rum blends rich flavors with a deeper meaning, serving both as a libation and a celebration of the Haitian spirit as Haitian Heritage Month unfolds.
Born from Melky Jean’s vision, the Saint Sauveur 1972 Premium 4 Year Rum is not just another celebrity product. It is a thoughtful, crafted homage to the struggles and triumphs of the Haitian people. The rum’s unique flavor profile offers a smooth, smoky finish accented by oak, caramel, and vanilla nuances, creating a sensory connection to history. Each bottle also features a tribute to the Saint Sauveur ship, which famously ran aground in Pompano Beach in 1972, carrying Haitian refugees in search of freedom.
Melky Jean, a third-generation entrepreneur, embodies the legacy of her grandmother, a moonshiner from the 1940s, and her mother, who created traditional Haitian liqueur, Kremas. As the majority owner of Saint Sauveur Rum, Melky embraces her heritage while crafting a new narrative, underscored by the tagline: "Taste the Heritage, Celebrate the Spirit." This message emphasizes the importance of self-representation and the power of storytelling.
In her aim to reshape perceptions of Haiti, Melky argues that black individuals must take the lead in narrating their own tales. Her presentations often highlight the lack of awareness about important events like the Saint Sauveur’s landing, drawing parallels to the well-known Mayflower. This focus on history serves to strengthen the brand’s identity within the larger context of the Haitian-American experience.
Melky speaks passionately about her upbringing in Brooklyn, where her dual identity made her feel disconnected from both American and Haitian cultures. Identifying as both American and Haitian, she faced challenges in navigating her identity in a society that often simplified complex narratives. This complexity is reflected in the mission of Saint Sauveur Rum, which seeks to honor and encapsulate the multifaceted experiences of the Haitian diaspora.
The rum’s packaging also reflects Melky’s commitment to authenticity, as she chose to work with a Black woman-owned design company for the bottle labels. This decision reinforces her dedication to inclusivity and representation in the industry. Moreover, she asserts that the story of Haiti is intricately linked to the broader narrative of Black history, urging recognition of the contributions of Haitian individuals to American society.
With a personal connection to the year 1972—when her mother arrived in the United States seeking refuge—Melky’s entrepreneurial journey is as much about self-investment as it is about perpetuating her family’s legacy. By creating Saint Sauveur Rum, she challenges conventional norms surrounding rum consumption, promoting it as a sophisticated beverage suitable for savoring rather than merely a vacation drink.
The act of enjoying Saint Sauveur Rum symbolizes a celebration of Haitian heritage, resilience, and community. Melky emphasizes that enjoyment of the rum connects drinkers to the shared legacy of strength embodied by the Haitian people. Her familial lineage, marked by women of indomitable spirit, provides a rich historical foundation for the brand, which Melky views as more than just a product—it is a cultural experience that bridges generations and communities.
In summary, Saint Sauveur Rum offers a unique narrative intertwined with the journey of Haitian identity. As Melky Jean invites others to share in this heritage, she celebrates the profound contributions of Haitians to the fabric of American history, echoing resilience and strength with every sip.
Raising the Bar: Beluga Vodka’s Impressive Q1 Performance in the Luxury Market
May 2, 2025 — Noblewood USA has announced a remarkable 41% growth in Beluga Vodka’s business for Q1 2025, reinforcing its position as the fastest-growing super-premium vodka brand in the U.S. Over the past year, Beluga Gold Line Vodka has secured an impressive 56% share of the luxury vodka segment, making it the leading vodka brand priced above $30 in the country.
Sergey Kucher, CEO of Noblewood USA, expressed enthusiasm about the brand’s momentum, stating, “With rising demand and growing brand visibility following a strong Q1, we’re energized to build on this success and solidify Beluga’s leadership in the luxury vodka category.”
Beluga Vodka is expanding its presence in significant national chains such as Total Wine & More, ABC Fine Wine & Spirits, Spec’s Wines, Spirits & Foods, and Binny’s Beverage Depot, along with prestigious independent retailers and luxury establishments like Cipriani, Casa Tua, and Disney World.
The brand is gaining global recognition, having recently achieved:
- #2 in The Top 50 Vodka Brands Ranked
- #5 in the Top Trending Vodka Brands Worldwide
Beluga Vodka is crafted from 100% Nordic grain and pure spring water, emphasizing an ecological commitment. It is distilled six times, resulting in a refined and smooth profile. The brand’s portfolio includes Beluga Gold Line, Beluga Noble, and others, all designed to provide a luxurious experience that pairs perfectly with caviar.
For more information, visit Beluga Vodka.