February 2026 79
A Journey Through Time: Opening a 127-Year-Old Bottle of Wine
In a Michelin-starred restaurant in Burgundy, France, a select group of wine experts gathered to witness the opening of a remarkable bottle: a 127-year-old Romanée-Conti from 1899. This exceptional wine, known for its prestigious history, was once reserved for European aristocracy and has since gained notoriety among the hyper-wealthy, with even a 1945 vintage fetching an astounding $558,000 at auction in 2018.
The bottle before them, with its worn label and lead capsule, was described by experts as a “unicorn” of the wine world. Though valuable, its true worth lay not in price but in the experience of sharing it. The owner, Singaporean businessman Soo Hoo Khoon Peng, decided to uncork this rare vintage just a year after purchasing it for his 50th birthday. He emphasized that opening such a remarkable bottle was about connection and learning, not merely status.
Régis Cimmati, a fine wine director, estimated the value of the 1899 bottle at around €100,000 ($118,000). Most bottles from the Domaine de la Romanée-Conti sell for significantly less, making this find even more extraordinary. The bottle had a storied past, initially purchased by a French noble family and forgotten in a cellar for decades. Its remarkable journey included being misidentified at an auction, where it sold for a mere handful of euros.
As the wine was opened, attendees included figures like Aubert de Villaine, co-owner of the Domaine de la Romanée-Conti and a vital link to the winery’s long history. The wine itself, made from ungrafted Pinot Noir vines before pest damage changed viticulture forever, was a biological marvel. It had survived two world wars and many other challenges, making its presence felt at the table.
The tasting proved to be exquisite, with the wine exhibiting a warm amber hue and an invigorating freshness paired with evolved notes of dried flowers and preserved plum. For those present, the moment encapsulated a unique union of history, craftsmanship, and passion for the beverage. Soo Hoo’s approach to sharing this rare vintage was hailed as a generous act, showcasing true appreciation for the art of winemaking.
Cimmati remarked on the significance of the occasion, asserting that the wine’s survival through history rendered its existence almost miraculous. In a world where such treasures are often locked away as trophies, Soo Hoo’s decision to share the experience affirmed his commitment to honor the vineyard and the people behind it.
Absolut Launches Spicy New Tabasco-Infused Vodka – A Perfect Match for Heat Lovers!
Absolut has introduced a new twist to its flavored vodka lineup with the launch of Absolut Tabasco, a collaboration that infuses their premium vodka with the essence made from the fermented red pepper mash used in Tabasco sauce. This unique blend results in a vodka that is both spicy and refined, making it an exciting addition to cocktail recipes.
The new product was highlighted during an invite-only event at Absolut’s distillery in Åhus, Sweden, where journalists and industry professionals sampled it neat, as well as in cocktails like Bloody Marys and spicy lemonades. Distilled to bring forth its natural flavor, Absolut Vodka maintains its characteristic smoothness while providing a warm kick from the Tabasco infusion.
The partnership between Absolut and Tabasco began with discussions last summer and quickly materialized into this collaborative release. Bottles have started reaching retail stores and are also available online, with the product quickly gaining popularity, soaring to the top of sales charts.
The packaging of Absolut Tabasco creatively combines elements from both brands, featuring Absolut’s iconic shape along with Tabasco’s recognizable label. The vodka aims to enhance social gatherings, providing a unique flavor experience that delivers heat without overpowering the palate.
Kate Neuhaus, Director of Global Marketing Communications at Tabasco, expressed excitement about the collaboration, emphasizing the commitment to quality shared by both brands. As Absolut continues to appeal to a demographic seeking variety in their drinks, this new flavor is positioned to become a favorite, drawing fans of both Absolut and Tabasco alike.
Absolut Vodka Teams Up with Renowned Hot Sauce Brand for Bold New Expression
Absolut Vodka has teamed up with the renowned hot sauce brand Tabasco to launch a new spicy vodka called Absolut Tabasco. This distinct spirit is crafted using Absolut’s winter wheat vodka combined with the fermented, aged red pepper mash that goes into Tabasco sauce, resulting in a flavorful drink with a spicy kick.
According to the U.S. Vice President of Marketing for Absolut, Caroline Begley, this partnership highlights the brand’s commitment to bold flavors and exciting mixes. The Absolut Tabasco vodka is intended to enhance classic cocktails, making it a great addition to drinks like Bloody Marys.
Kate Neuhaus, the Director of Global Marketing Communications at McIlhenny Company, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, indicating that it captures a shared dedication to quality and adventurous flavor experiences.
Absolut Tabasco is now available across the United States at a suggested retail price of $25 for a 750ml bottle, making it an accessible option for those looking to spice up their cocktails.
Eastmoor Residents Launch New Rum Brand Inspired by Queen Esther’s Legacy
Margaret Kerr-Jarrett and Emunah Winer, both residents of Eastmoor and co-founders of Nihilo Creative Agency, have launched a new rum brand called Esther Rum, named after the biblical figure Queen Esther. The duo has spent years working in the spirits industry, having previously helped create Casa Malka Tequila. They recognized a gap in the rum market, with a noticeable boom in other spirit categories, and decided to change that.
The idea for Esther Rum originated just before its public debut on January 31, 2026, at the Wonderball event held at the Columbus Museum of Art. Their goal is to transform people’s perceptions of rum; they want to ensure that when someone tries their product, they associate it with high quality, comparable to tequila. Kerr-Jarrett recounted how her own understanding of rum changed after her marriage into a Jamaican family, which opened her eyes to the spirit’s potential beyond typical college associations.
The brand stands out not only due to its unique name but also its distinct packaging, which features a green cap and easily visible logo. This design choice aims for instant recognition, making Esther Rum a memorable choice at bars and stores. Additionally, a secondary logo featuring a lion reveals a hidden message when the bottle is flipped, inviting consumers to engage with the product on a personal level.
Despite working with a smaller budget than previous projects, the duo remains focused on creativity. They have utilized funding from ECDI, which supports small businesses, to kick-start their venture. Esther Rum can be found at various stores in Ohio, including Arena Wine and Spirits and Giant Eagle’s Grandview Market District, and is available for online purchase at drinkesther.com.
Kerr-Jarrett expressed a passion for building a brand that embraces joy and connection among consumers, encouraging them to enjoy the product in a relaxed, fun atmosphere rather than taking it too seriously.
Madison Beer Opens Up: Navigating Social Media, Womanhood in the Music Industry, and the Journey Behind Her New Album ‘Locket’
Madison Beer reflects on her journey through the music industry after the release of her new album, Locket, which has earned her a spot in the Billboard top 10 and her first entry on the Hot 100 with the single "Bittersweet." At 26 years old and already a decade into her career, Beer feels content despite ongoing public perceptions about her success.
Despite having a substantial online following of over 40 million, Beer acknowledges the difficulties women face in the industry, particularly in being recognized for their contributions. She co-wrote and co-produced every track on Locket, emphasizing the importance of creative control, especially as a woman in a male-dominated sphere.
Beer shares insights into her relationship with social media, admitting that it complicates her self-perception. Her youth has been publicly chronicled, leading to some discomfort with her past. She expresses a desire for people to recognize her growth and the pressures celebrities face.
Navigating her identity while in the spotlight has been challenging. She recalls experiences of feeling embarrassed about her past, only to realize that the judgments she faced were part of her growing up. Beer aims to encourage other young women to assert their strengths and confront the misconceptions surrounding female artists.
She advocates for a healthier perspective on success, valuing creativity over traditional metrics such as chart positions. Beer finds joy in her accomplishments yet remains wary of the expectations placed on artists in the public eye, aiming to redefine what success looks like for herself.
As she enters this new chapter of her career, Beer expresses a hope to distance herself from public scrutiny while continuing to produce music that reflects her true self.
For more insight into her experiences, check out her work on Madison Beer and learn about her single "Bittersweet.
Madison Beer Stuns on the Grammys Red Carpet in Chic Cutout Dress
Madison Beer made a striking appearance at the 2026 Grammy Awards, where she donned an eye-catching cutout dress. The singer, known for her track "Make You Mine," showcased the glamorous ensemble on Sunday, February 1. In her social media posts, she shared highlights of the event, capturing unforgettable moments from the red carpet.
The dress, designed by Andrew Kwon, was a black, form-fitting piece featuring a bold V-shaped neckline adorned with velvet details. Madison complemented her look with sophisticated makeup and loose hair, accessorizing with diamond earrings and a bracelet that added to her overall elegance.
Fans enthusiastically commented on her stunning appearance, with reactions ranging from "Sooooo fab" to expressions of admiration for her fashion choices throughout the year.
Elevate Your Wine Experience: The Ultimate Fancy Wine Fridge for Preserving Your Best Bottles
For my 10th wedding anniversary, my wife and I returned to the Paso Robles winery where we got married. I purchased bottles from the 2019 and 2021 vintages, which correspond to the years our children were born, intending to save them until they are of legal drinking age so we can enjoy them together. However, I realized I needed a proper way to preserve these bottles for over a decade—a task for which I wasn’t adequately prepared.
Throughout most of my 30s, wine storage wasn’t a priority. I avoided putting wine above the stove but had no qualms about storing Cabernet in the refrigerator and Sancerre on the counter, juggling bottles in any available cabinet. Honestly, if I managed to keep a bottle for more than two weeks, it was a rare accomplishment.
Proper wine storage requires precise control over temperature, humidity, and light. High temperatures can spoil the wine, while low humidity can dry out corks and let oxygen spoil the contents. Enter the Goguette wine fridge—a new product from Eurocave, aimed at simplifying wine storage for enthusiasts.
The Goguette fridges are built to cater to different needs, whether you want straightforward, long-term storage or more complex setups with multiple temperature zones. While Eurocave’s options may overwhelm casual wine drinkers, Goguette focuses on being user-friendly. Despite its simplified design, it maintains high quality.
While Goguette does offer multi-zone fridges, I opted for a single-zone model in my dining room. This fridge allows me to set a temperature ideal for various wines; I chose 54°F to preserve the bottles for my children while also beginning to build a collection for immediate consumption.
Over the past six months, I’ve tested the fridge’s temperature accuracy with a thermometer, and it consistently maintained the set temperature, fluctuating by less than a degree.
The Goguette wine fridge is notably substantial and robust. Unlike other inexpensive beverage fridges, which I can move easily, this unit required two people and a dolly to relocate, demonstrating its quality and craftsmanship. Handcrafted in Fourmies, France, it features thoughtful details like a prominent handle, aluminum frame, touch controls, and adjustable shelves.
At $3,400, it’s a significant investment tailored for serious wine lovers or those willing to splurge. As Drinks Director Joey Hernandez points out, many people can manage with budget storage solutions. Typically, most wines are consumed soon after purchase, and extended aging isn’t always necessary.
Yet, for those special bottles meant for momentous occasions, a basic six-bottle cooler isn’t sufficient. The Goguette strives to recreate ideal cellar conditions in a compact size that can fit in various home spaces. Many younger consumers are now leaning toward "less but better" choices, seeking meaningful and aesthetically pleasing items.
A Goguette is not just functional but also serves as a conversation piece. Its striking design, adjustable shelving, and interior lighting are all geared toward making wine storage not only practical but also visually appealing. I look forward to ensuring that the wine remains pristine for my children’s future enjoyment.
Matthew Lillard Unveils New Ghost Face Vodka: A Spooky Sip for Fans!
Actor Matthew Lillard is embarking on a new venture with the introduction of Ghost Face Vodka, a new spirit inspired by the iconic Scream franchise. Developed in collaboration with Macabre Spirits, Lillard partners with screenwriter Justin Ware and Fun World, the rights holders to the Ghost Face mask, to create this distinctive vodka just in time for the upcoming release of Scream 7 on February 27, 2026.
Ghost Face Vodka will be sold directly to consumers via Macabre Spirits’ website starting February 9, 2026. Priced at $160, it comes in an exclusive premium box that includes a variety of collectible items. The vodka itself is distilled in Germany from 100% non-GMO potatoes and is gluten-free, promising a smooth and silky drinking experience.
The limited edition package features:
- A handcrafted Italian glass bottle with a premium label.
- Each bottle is hand-signed by Matthew Lillard—only available with this release.
- A stylish collector’s box.
- Custom glassware and exclusive Ghost Face Vodka pins.
- A QR code on the bottle that links to a new social party game titled GFV Killer Bash, designed specifically for fans.
Lillard expressed his excitement about the collaboration, saying, "At Macabre Spirits, we love creating premium spirit experiences for the horror community. […] It’s a chance to give fans something premium, something collectible, and something that tastes incredible—just in time for me to return to the scene of the crime this February."
For more details, you can view the official product site at Ghost Face Vodka.
Chris Stapleton Celebrates Iconic National Anthem Moment in New Traveller Whiskey Super Bowl Ad
In a new Super Bowl commercial for Traveller Whiskey, Chris Stapleton pays tribute to his iconic performance of the national anthem from the 2023 Super Bowl, which is regarded as one of the best renditions in history. His moving performance not only touched the hearts of fans, including Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni, but also left a lasting impact, leading many to wish he would sing it annually. However, Stapleton has made the decision to retire from performing the anthem, stating that the pressure is immense and acknowledging the significance of the moment.
Reflecting on his performance, Stapleton noted the extensive practice and preparation he undertook. He expressed appreciation for the flawless editing during the broadcast that helped elevate the overall presentation of the anthem. His dedication is evident as he mentioned the serious nature with which he approached the task.
In the commercial, viewers will witness a blend of footage featuring Stapleton preparing for his Super Bowl performance alongside scenes from Buffalo Trace Distillery to highlight the craftsmanship behind making quality whiskey. The 30-second ad reinforces the idea that perfect moments require hard work and intentionality, much like the effort that goes into creating both memorable performances and exceptional whiskey.
The commercial is set to air just before kickoff on Super Bowl Sunday, providing fans not only a chance to relive Stapleton’s legacy but also to celebrate the artistry behind both music and distilling.
Unlocking the Perfect Pairing: Why Whiskey Deserves a Spot with Your Next Raw Oyster
Raw oysters offer a delightful experience, especially when enhanced with various toppings. Traditionally served at seafood shacks or dressed up in extravagant seafood towers, these ocean delicacies can be elevated further with unexpected accompaniments. One intriguing pairing gaining popularity is whiskey, which can bring a unique twist to the oyster-eating experience.
While condiments like lemon juice and mignonette are classic choices, whiskey introduces a warming element that can complement the briny flavor of oysters. Glenlivet, a storied Scottish distillery, even encourages the practice of adding whiskey directly into oyster shells. This combination works well due to whiskey’s balance of sweetness and saltiness—similar to other traditional toppings.
To incorporate whiskey into your oyster feast, you first need to shuck them. While this might seem daunting, with the right tools, such as a dedicated oyster knife and proper safety precautions, it becomes an enjoyable task. Once mastered, shucking opens the door to countless flavor combinations and presentations.
To serve whiskey with your oysters, consider using stainless steel condiment cups to hold the spirit, as they keep the liquid chilled. Alternatively, dropper bottles can provide an elegant way to add a few drops directly into the oyster shell. For a more indulgent experience, measuring glasses can be used to pour whiskey into the shells, allowing for a truly flavorful shot.
This innovative approach to enjoying oysters not only surprises guests but also highlights the versatility of both oysters and whiskey. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or indulging in a quiet evening at home, pairing whiskey with oysters is an adventurous culinary delight worth exploring.
For more oyster preparation tips, consider visiting resources for shucking techniques or pairing suggestions.