January 2026 86
Don’t Miss Out: Watch Hill Whiskey’s Latest Rare Releases Are Here!
Just in time for the new year, Watch Hill Whiskey has announced the release of two unique whiskeys. This popular brand, recognized for its rare whiskey releases, is kicking off 2026 with a new bourbon and a rye whiskey created in collaboration with renowned Louisville chef Michael Crouch.
The New Whiskey Releases
The latest offerings include Exceptional Series Batch 03, a limited release bourbon, and Chef Series Batch 01, an annual rye whiskey.
Exceptional Series Batch 03 is crafted from a blend of hand-picked barrels of 18-year-old Kentucky straight bourbons. This rare whiskey boasts a 128-proof with a rich, balanced flavor profile. Tommy Craggs, Co-Founder of Watch Hill Proper, emphasized that this bourbon truly meets the high standards set for their Exceptional Series.
On the other hand, Chef Series Batch 01 is a 130.4-proof rye whiskey made from a blend of 12-year-old rye whiskeys, also carefully selected by Chef Michael Crouch. Crouch shared his connection to rye whiskey, noting its complexity and evolving flavor.
Where to Buy Them
Both whiskey releases are available in extremely limited quantities at Watch Hill Whiskey’s location in Prospect, Kentucky. Chef Series Batch 01 is priced at $249 per bottle, while Exceptional Series Batch 03 will be released beginning January 6, 2026, for $449 per bottle.
Tito’s Vodka Retains Top Spot in NC Sales Amid Soaring Popularity of Ready-to-Drink Cans
Tito’s Handmade Vodka continues to dominate North Carolina’s liquor market, selling around 300,000 bottles monthly across both 750 ml and 1.75 liter sizes. With a gluten-free recipe that has made it a staple in popular cocktails like the Bloody Mary, Tito’s outperforms its nearest competitor, Smirnoff Vodka, which sells approximately 70,000 bottles per month.
Vodka remains the most consumed spirit in North Carolina, with eight out of the top ten liquors being vodka or vodka-based drinks. Interestingly, while Tito’s tops the sales in Orange County, Don Julio Reposado Tequila leads in Durham County.
However, 2025 has marked the first year of declining overall liquor sales in North Carolina, a deviation from previous trends. Despite Tito’s success, it experienced a 3% reduction in sales from 2024, with fifth-sized bottles posting a 9% drop. Tony Dubois, the Orange County ABC General Manager, noted that sales of ready-to-drink seltzers like High Noon and Surfside have surged, reflecting a shift in consumer preferences. These ready-to-drink options have gained significant traction since their introductions—High Noon launched in 2019 and Surfside in 2022.
The NC Alcohol Beverage Commission reported that total liquor sales for fiscal year 2025 decreased by 0.26% compared to the previous year, marking a unique downturn. While retail sales saw a dip of 0.23%, mixed beverage sales in bars and restaurants grew by 0.63%, reflecting a gradual recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite being the top-seller, Tito’s and other liquor sales have faced challenges, as preferences for low-calorie and healthier alternatives like hard seltzers gain ground. In fiscal year 2025, there was a remarkable eightfold increase in sales of Stateside Surfside Cocktails and a twofold rise for High Noon Fiesta Cocktails.
Profits from alcohol sales play a vital role in funding state and local governments as well as alcohol abuse prevention programs, with nearly $15.2 million allocated to law enforcement and $113 million to local municipalities from ABC revenues.
Top 10 Whiskies, Rums, Brandies & Other Spirits Under ₹10,000 to Keep You Cozy This Winter
As India’s winter season approaches, it’s the perfect opportunity to enhance your home bar with seasonal drinks that can keep you warm. This selection features a range of whiskies, rums, brandies, and more, all curated to help you withstand the winter chill.
Whisky Selections
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Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Bourbon
This bourbon delights with a blend of oak and sweet vanilla flavors, complemented by hints of leather, caramel, and dried dark fruits. Priced at Rs 7,500. -
Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire
A comforting cinnamon liqueur featuring toasted wood, roasted nuts, and vanilla beans, with spicy notes of ground cinnamon and clove at Rs 3,800.
Rum Choices
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Twin Fin Spiced Golden Rum
Bold vanilla combines with exotic citrus and a light smoky finish, priced at Rs 8,600. -
Bacardi Mango Chilli
A fusion of sweet and spicy, featuring raw mango and chilli flavors, priced at Rs 1,800.
Brandy Offerings
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Roulette Blended Brandy
This Indian brandy is known for its vanilla, caramel, and oak notes, priced at Rs 1,950. -
La Botija Pisco Quebranta
A traditional Peruvian spirit with fruity and earthy notes, perfect for sipping neat, priced at Rs 3,999.
Tequila Options
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Patron XO Cafe
A premium coffee-flavored tequila from Jalisco, matured for smoothness, priced at Rs 6,500. -
Dos Flamos Oro Tequila
A unique blend of blanco and reposado tequilas with a mix of caramel and smoky flavors, priced at Rs 3,990.
Wine Selections
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Yellow Tail Merlot
A soft and velvety wine from Australia with flavors of dark plum and vanilla, priced at Rs 2,295. -
Fratelli Classic Merlot
A medium-bodied wine with notes of plum and dark chocolate, available for Rs 775.
With these choices in hand, your winter evenings will certainly be more enjoyable. For more detailed whisky stories and recommendations, consider exploring additional resources.
Hot Plate Brewing to Introduce Cocktails Following Pittsfield License Upgrade
Hot Plate Brewing Company in Pittsfield has received approval from the Pittsfield Licensing Board to upgrade to an all-alcohol license, which will allow the establishment to serve spirits in addition to its current beer and wine offerings. This change comes on the heels of a new state law that enables businesses to convert their wine and malt licenses into nontransferable all-alcohol licenses.
Mike Dell’Aquila, co-founder and manager of Hot Plate Brewing, expressed excitement over the change, stating that they’ve received numerous requests for cocktails like vodka sodas. "This option helps us achieve our goal of being as inclusive as possible," he shared.
With the new all-alcohol license, Hot Plate Brewing plans to offer a wider variety of beverages, including hard seltzers, gluten-free options, and a selection of craft cocktails. They anticipate rolling out their own hard seltzer and a unique drink called Volke Spritz, crafted by owner Sarah Real, which is a modern take on a classic Mexican beverage.
The brewery aims to create a curated cocktail list that includes both traditional drinks and seasonal specials. While it will not function as a full bar, the expanded menu aims to cater to a broader audience, potentially increasing foot traffic in downtown Pittsfield.
Under the conditions of the new law, the all-alcohol license cannot be transferred; if the brewery ceases operations, it would revert to its previous wine and malt license. This legislation is part of a push to maintain the city’s overall liquor license quota while giving businesses like Hot Plate Brewing the opportunity to enhance their offerings.
Dell’Aquila reiterated the brewery’s commitment to being a welcoming space for community gatherings, emphasizing that this license upgrade aligns with their mission to create an inclusive environment. They also plan to continue collaborating with local food vendors as they move into their fourth year of operation.
The taproom anticipates implementing these new offerings early in 2026, pending final state approval. The initiative aligns perfectly with their aim to expand gluten-free selections and enhance the overall experience in their taproom beyond just the beer they brew on-site.
For more details about Hot Plate Brewing, visit Hot Plate Brewing Company.
Exploring New Flavors: Alternative Styles to Orange Wine You’ll Love
In recent conversations among wine enthusiasts, including sommeliers and journalists, there has been a noticeable shift in preferences, particularly regarding orange wine—a style made by fermenting white grapes with their skins. Although I personally remain a fan of orange wine, many in cities like Paris, New York, and Los Angeles seem to be experiencing a growing fatigue towards it. This seems to stem from two main factors: first, the rise of natural wine has led some to view orange wine as merely a passing trend; second, it’s not uncommon to tire of a specific wine style, much like the seasonal whims we have witnessed with rosé.
Despite the trend fatigue, many wines can offer similar complexity and texture as amber wines. Here are some alternative styles worth trying:
Alsatian Riesling
For those who crave body and texture in their whites, Alsatian Rieslings are exemplary. Typically dry and medium to full-bodied, these wines often showcase minerality, along with herbaceous and floral notes. Sampling different local producers, such as Terravista and Pamplemousse Jus, allows for an authentic taste of the region.
Dry Sherry
Sherry is another fantastic option for orange wine aficionados. Known for its diverse styles, many expressions of Sherry are dry, bursting with flavors of nuts, herbs, and citrus. Fino, Manzanilla, Amontillado, and Oloroso are a few delightful choices that can introduce an orange-wine lover to new and thrilling flavors.
Cyder
Recently, I’ve become enamored with cyder, especially after exploring the vast offerings at The Newt in Somerset. Their commitment to artisanal methods makes their cyder comparable to that of fine wine. For a crisp, refreshing option, their Wyvern Wing stands out with bright acidity and citrus notes, easily reminiscent of a Riesling.
Swartland Whites
In South Africa’s Swartland region, wines made from Chenin Blanc and Rhône varietals are garnering attention. These wines balance fruity density with savory florality, showcasing exciting profiles that are becoming increasingly popular.
Vostilidi
Traveling to France, I discovered a rare Greek grape called Vostilidi in Kefalonia. This ancient grape yields a wine with an “orange” character, even with minimal skin contact, making it a unique find that is sure to surprise any wine lover.
Champagne de Vigneron
When dining on the French Riviera, Champagne de Vigneron is recommended for autumn and winter meals. Known for its full-bodied nature, this Champagne pairs wonderfully with hearty dishes, elevating the dining experience with its richness.
These alternatives to orange wine showcase a diverse world of flavors and styles, inviting both seasoned wine lovers and newcomers to explore beyond the conventional choices.
Cheers to the New Year: A Guide to Champagne and Your Wine Walkabout
New Year’s Eve is a night filled with a mix of nostalgia and excitement, where many try to recapture their youthful spirit. It often turns into "Amateur Night," marked by social gatherings and the obligatory pop of Champagne. This bubbly drink is much more than just a festive beverage; it represents celebration and life’s significant moments, be they joyous or regretful.
Champagne’s journey begins in the cold climates of northern France’s Champagne region, where a historical twist of fate led to the creation of the sparkling wine we know today. In the 1600s, unintentional second fermentation created bubbles in still wines, a mistake that one monk, Dom Pierre Pérignon, turned into an opportunity. He innovatively blended Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier to create a drink that became synonymous with celebration, famously saying, “Come quickly, I am tasting the stars!”
The traditional method of crafting Champagne, known as Méthode Champenoise, involves a labor-intensive secondary fermentation process, extensive aging, and exceptional care in blending. This has led to the emergence of iconic brands like Moët & Chandon and Krug, alongside smaller grower-producers who maintain their unique takes on this extraordinary drink.
One such grower, Drappier, has carved a niche as the largest certified organic producer in Champagne. They offer a Zero Dosage Pinot Noir bottling that emphasizes honesty in flavor over added sweetness. Similarly, Francis Boulard & Fille has embraced organic and biodynamic farming, resulting in wines that prioritize depth and texture, avoiding excess sugar altogether.
The evolution of Champagne has also sparked a global response, leading to the creation of sparkling wines across the world, like Cava from Spain, Prosecco from Italy, and sparkling wines from California.
As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, it’s a collective moment to pause, reflect, and toast with friends and family. Whether commemorating personal milestones, celebrating friendships, or simply enjoying the thrill of the season, the effervescent bubbles in a glass of Champagne serve as a reminder of joy, resilience, and hope for the future. So let’s raise a glass to all that the new year may hold, as we bravely toast to the nights we may not remember, but will certainly cherish.