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Savor the Spirit of America: 5 Must-Try American-Made Whiskeys and Vodkas
America has a rich and tumultuous history with alcoholic beverages, particularly spirits. Despite the significant disruptions caused by Prohibition in the 1920s, which led to a dramatic downturn in the industry, the U.S. has emerged as a top producer of quality wines and spirits. With the repeal of Prohibition, American distillers and winemakers were driven to elevate their craft, employing quality and innovation to establish a strong domestic market. Today, while American whiskey is celebrated worldwide, there’s also a burgeoning interest in vodka, gin, rum, and brandy produced on American soil.
Top 5 American-Made Spirits
With the fluctuating landscape of international trade and potential import taxes, exploring American-made spirits has never been more appealing. Here’s a look at noteworthy labels across five categories:
1. Vodka
The first American vodka was produced in Connecticut in 1934, and by the 1970s, vodka surpassed whiskey in sales. Tito’s Handmade Vodka, launched in 1997, set the stage for many craft producers to create distinctive offerings.
Five bottles to try:
- Hanson of Sonoma – Made with grapes in California.
- Barr Hill Vodka – Distilled from raw honey in Vermont.
- The Community Spirit Vodka – Distilled five times in Indiana.
- St. George Spirits All Purpose Vodka – A versatile option from California.
- Wheatley Vodka – From Buffalo Trace Distillery.
2. Whiskey
American whiskey remains a leading category, accounting for 63% of all U.S. spirits exports in 2023. While brands like Maker’s Mark, Bulleit, and Jack Daniel’s are perennial favorites, many others rise to popularity.
Five bottles to try:
- Milam & Greene Whiskey – Distilled in Texas, aged across four states.
- Wyoming Whiskey National Parks Series – Collectible releases celebrating national parks.
- Brother’s Bond Bourbon – Supports regenerative farming.
- Bardstown Bourbon Collaborative Series – Unique blends in collaboration with various breweries.
- Widow Jane Whiskey – Small-batch production in Brooklyn.
3. Gin
Initially popularized by the British, gin’s botanical qualities have captivated American distillers, leading to an array of unique gins that reflect local flavors.
Five bottles to try:
- Four Corners Gin – Ingredients sourced from across the U.S.
- Gray Whale Gin – California-produced using ingredients like Big Sur juniper.
- Loch & Union Barley Gin – A coriander-forward option from Napa.
- Leopold Bros Small Batch Gin – Crafted with individually distilled botanicals in Denver.
- Corsair American Gin – Exclusive vapor-distilled small batches from Nashville.
4. Rum
Historically favored in the 1600s and a staple during Prohibition, rum has evolved and remains a popular spirit, with American distilleries gaining recognition for their quality.
Five bottles to try:
- Privateer Navy Yard Rum – A molasses-based rum from Massachusetts.
- Bully Boy Boston Rum – Blends of blackstrap and sweet molasses.
- Greenbar Distillery Silver Rum – Ideal for cocktails from LA.
- Kō Hana Rum – Known for its portfolio of agricole rum from Oahu.
- Humboldt Spiced Rum – Made with organic spices from California.
5. Brandy
American brandy has roots dating back to early colonial settlements, with distillation practices evolving since then.
Five bottles to try:
- Laird & Company – The oldest brandy label in America, dating back to 1780.
- Laird’s Old Apple Brandy – Features aging in charred oak barrels.
- E&J Brandy – A mainstream option established in 1975.
- Argonaut Fat Thumb – Flavors of apple, pear, caramel, and oak.
- Germain-Robin XO Brandy – Noted for its cherry characteristics from California.
- Korbel VSOP – A variety typical of Sonoma County’s sparkling wine reputation.
Exploring these American-made spirits can provide a delightful taste of the country’s craftsmanship and heritage.
Salem Man Indicted on Federal Charges for Molotov Cocktail Attacks and Gunfire at Tesla Dealership
Adam Matthew Lansky, a 41-year-old man from Salem, has been indicted in federal court following allegations of vandalism linked to a Tesla dealership in Salem, Oregon. The indictment includes multiple charges, specifically two counts of attempting arson of property used in interstate commerce and one count of unlawful possession of an unregistered destructive device, namely a Molotov cocktail.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Lansky faced earlier charges for illegally possessing these explosive devices. He is associated with two distinct incidents at the Tesla dealership. The first incident on January 20 involved the use of a Molotov cocktail to ignite a car and resulted in a broken window. A second incident occurred on February 19 when several windows at the dealership were reportedly damaged by gunfire. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during either event.
The Salem Police Department is treating the fire at the Tesla dealership as arson. This case occurs amid increasing vandalism incidents involving Tesla properties across the U.S. and abroad, which have been characterized by Attorney General Pamela Bondi as “domestic terrorism.” Such crimes have notably surged in relation to tensions surrounding the Trump administration and Elon Musk’s initiatives.
For further details regarding these incidents, you can refer to the following links:
Savoring the South: A Deep Dive into Southern-Style Cocktails
The recent spate of severe hailstorms has left several states facing significant damage, with some regions bearing the brunt of the storms more than others. These hailstorms are part of a broader pattern of extreme weather that has become increasingly common due to climate change.
Heathrow Airport recently experienced significant disruptions due to a fire, leading to delays and confusion for travelers. As the airport begins to resume normal operations, affected passengers are advised to understand their rights regarding compensation.
In another concerning development linked to climate change, researchers have observed that spring seasons are starting earlier and becoming both warmer and rainier. This shift has implications for agriculture, ecosystem dynamics, and weather patterns across the globe.
Meanwhile, rising sea levels continue to threaten coastal communities, with new reports indicating they are escalating at an unprecedented rate. Affected regions are warned to prepare for potential flooding and other adverse effects as the situation worsens.
Lastly, after decades of being declared ‘eliminated’, there are fears that measles could regain a foothold in the U.S. as vaccine hesitancy increases. Health officials are closely monitoring this trend to avert major outbreaks.
For more information on these topics, check out the following links:
Revamp Your Cocktail Game: Spring Cleaning for Your Drink Recipes!
Spring is a time for renewal, and what better way to refresh than through a cocktail celebration? Inspired by the tradition of Oktoberfest, which revolves around celebrating a specific type of beer, this approach encourages an event dubbed "Marchfest." Here, we focus on using up any leftover winter spirits to make room for the lighter drinks of spring and summer.
As winter cocktails are often rich with flavors—think whiskey, brandy, and roasted red wines—Marchfest brings a fresh twist, perfect for mixing seasonal drinks. By incorporating winter’s bounty, particularly citrus fruits like Meyer lemons, a range of delightful cocktails can be crafted.
Cocktail Recipes for Marchfest
New York Sour
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Unsinkable Bourbon from Sausalito Liquor Co.
- 1 ounce fresh Meyer lemon juice
- ½ ounce simple syrup
- ½ ounce aquafaba (a chickpea water substitute)
- 1 ounce leftover red wine
Directions:
- In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, Meyer lemon juice, simple syrup, and aquafaba. Shake until cold and foamy.
- Strain over fresh ice in a glass and carefully layer with red wine on top for a visually appealing effect.
Sonoma Sazerac
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Barrel 151 reserve brandy from Griffo Distillery
- ½ ounce simple syrup
- 2 dashes Bitter Girl Garden Party bitters
- ¼ ounce Absinthe Blanche from Barber Lee Spirits
Directions:
- Mix brandy, simple syrup, and bitters in a shaker with ice. Shake until chilled.
- Coat a chilled glass with absinthe, discard the excess, and strain the mixture into the glass, garnishing with an orange twist.
An Almost Naked and Almost Famous
Ingredients:
- ¾ ounce Mezquila from Santo Spirits
- ¾ ounce California Amaro from Geijer Spirits
- ¾ ounce Flora Green from Accompani
- ¾ ounce Meyer lemon juice
- ½ ounce aquafaba
Directions:
- Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake until cold and foamy, then pour into a chilled coupe glass, topping with a generous mound of foam.
Perfectly Clear Spring Manhattan
Ingredients:
- 2½ ounces White Whiskey from Griffo Distillery
- ½ ounce Alessio Vermouth Bianco
- ½ ounce Vya Whisper Dry Vermouth
- 1 all-natural Bada Bing cherry
Directions:
- Stir the whiskey and vermouths in a mixing beaker with ice until very cold.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a stemmed cherry for an unconventional twist.
Marchfest offers an excellent way to enjoy cocktails and transition into spring while celebrating the final sips of winter. Each drink is a unique invitation to explore flavors and creativity that represent both seasons.
Spring into Flavor: Refreshing Irish Whiskey Cocktails to Try This Season
Spring is the perfect time to refresh your cocktail repertoire, and Irish whiskey offers a unique twist to warm-weather drinks with its lighter flavors. Here are some delightful recipes featuring Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey that are sure to invigorate your spring gatherings.
Proper Sour
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey
- 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.75 oz simple syrup
- Ice
- Garnish: lemon wedge and cherry
Method:
- In a shaker, combine whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a lemon wedge and cherry.
Proper Green Tea Shots
Ingredients:
- 3 oz Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey
- 3 oz Peach Schnapps
- 3 oz Sour Mix
- Splash of Lemon Lime soda
Method:
- Pour all ingredients into a Boston shaker filled with ice.
- Shake and strain into four shot glasses.
Apple Mule
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz Proper No. Twelve Irish Apple
- 3-4 oz Ginger Beer
- Lime wedge for garnish
Method:
- Over ice, mix Proper No. Twelve Irish Apple with ginger beer.
- Garnish with a lime wedge for a refreshing twist.
Proper Irish Coffee
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey
- 4 oz hot coffee
- 0.75 oz simple syrup
- 2-3 oz heavy cream
Method:
- Shake or whip the heavy cream until slightly thickened.
- In a mug, combine whiskey, hot coffee, and simple syrup. Stir well.
- Layer the thickened cream on top and optionally grate nutmeg over it.
Proper Irish Apple & Soda
Ingredients:
- 1 oz Proper No. Twelve Irish Apple
- 3-4 oz soda
- Apple slices for garnish
Method:
- Pour Proper No. Twelve Irish Apple into a glass.
- Top with soda and garnish with apple slices.
These recipes highlight the versatility of Irish whiskey and are sure to bring a refreshing taste to your springtime celebrations. Enjoy mixing and sipping these delightful cocktails!
Meet the World’s Most Terrifying Sports Mascot: Straight Out of a Horror Movie!
The Tasmanian AFL club recently revealed its new mascot, Rum’un, during an event that stirred a wave of reactions across Australia. Named after a local term implying someone who’s a bit cheeky, the unveiling did not resonate well with everyone, with many commentators describing the mascot as reminiscent of a "horror movie" character or even a "New York subway rat."
Despite the initial outrage, Tasmanian Devils chairman Grant O’Brien defended the mascot’s design, emphasizing that it was developed through extensive community consultation. The club’s new branding includes the Tasmanian Devil emblem along with a traditional green, yellow, and red color scheme, which generally received positive feedback. However, the mascot itself has been a subject of ridicule.
On social media, users expressed their disbelief and shock at the appearance of Rum’un, which some compared unfavorably to the infamous Fatso the Fat-Arsed-Wombat from the Sydney 2000 Olympics.
The chief designer, Bryony Anderson of Terrapin Puppet Theatre, shared that she aimed to create a “kick-ass” yet friendly mascot. Initially previewed to children from Howrah Primary School, the design received a warm reception, with kids even spontaneously chanting "devil, devil."
O’Brien noted that the creation of Rum’un is a true reflection of the club’s identity, built from the ground up with a unique Tasmanian spirit. The design process involved feedback from local teams and community members, resulting in a character that embodies cheekiness and toughness.
As the club prepares to join the AFL in 2028, it also faces significant challenges, including the construction of a new stadium in Hobart. Initially projected to cost $775 million, recent assessments suggest that the costs could exceed $1 billion due to management issues. The stadium’s approval is crucial for the successor team’s timeline, yet construction has not yet commenced, creating additional uncertainty.
Despite the mascot’s mixed reception, the Tasmania Football Club remains optimistic about Rum’un’s impact and hopes it will unify supporters across the state, embodying local pride and determination.
AG Bondi Unveils ‘Severe’ Charges Against Vandals Who Targeted Tesla Dealership with Molotov Cocktails
Attorney General Bondi has announced charges against three individuals involved in a series of firebombings targeting Tesla dealerships and charging stations. These attacks are reportedly fueled by animosity toward Elon Musk and his relationships within the federal government. President Trump has labeled these violent actions as acts of domestic terrorism.
The Justice Department has indicated that the charges against the three suspects are serious, with the possibility of up to 20 years in prison for each if convicted. In a stern statement, Bondi warned, “the days of committing crimes without consequence have ended.” She emphasized that participating in these acts of domestic terrorism against Tesla properties would lead to incarceration.
The alleged attackers attempted to use Molotov cocktails to destroy vehicles at Tesla locations in Oregon, Colorado, and South Carolina. One suspect, identified as Matthew Lansky from Oregon, was apprehended after reportedly throwing eight Molotov cocktails at a Tesla dealership. Another suspect from Colorado is accused of attempting to ignite vehicles while possessing materials for making more incendiary devices. A third defendant, Daniel Clarke-Pounder from South Carolina, is suspected of writing messages against Trump and setting Tesla charging stations ablaze.
Clarke-Pounder allegedly spray-painted phrases like “F–k Trump” and “Long Live Ukraine” around charging stations before throwing multiple Molotov cocktails. He was tracked down by agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms shortly after the incident. Lansky was captured on surveillance footage throwing incendiary devices and reportedly fired rounds at the dealership as well.
Tesla sales have recently dwindled, with shares plummeting nearly 40% year-to-date. Amid these challenges, Musk has received support from figures in the Trump administration, including Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, who encouraged the public to invest in Tesla.
During a recent event, Trump himself publicly showed support for Musk by purchasing three Tesla vehicles. He stated that attacks on Tesla dealerships should be treated with the severity of domestic terrorism and assured that those responsible would face significant repercussions.
Musk reacted to the coordinated attacks on X, questioning the level of violent opposition directed at Tesla, and noted the company’s response to enhance security measures, including activating Sentry Mode on all vehicles at their stores.
Sip & Savor: March Cocktails, Weekly Specials, and Exciting New Ice Cream Flavors in Taunton!
Not sure where to grab a bite in the Taunton area? With many options, choosing where to eat can be a challenge. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of meal deals, special events, and enticing offerings from local eateries and markets to consider for your next outing or a quick stop for a treat.
March Cocktails at Mediterranean Bar & Grill
Mediterranean Bar & Grill, located at 983 County St., is currently featuring a March cocktails menu that includes:
- Smokey tropical margarita
- Lime in the coconut cocktail made with Parrot Bay key lime, Malibu, and seltzer, garnished with a coconut flake rim
- Kettle cucumber melon martini
- Lychee pear martini
- Wild berry sangria
- Thin Mint martini featuring vodka and Tippy Cow shamrock rum cream in a chocolate-swirled glass.
Drink of the Month at Riverhouse
At Riverhouse (260 W. Water St.), the drink of the month is the "Luck of the Irish," combining crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and white chocolate liqueur.
Weekly Specials at Grove Street Tavern
Grove Street Tavern (53 Grove St.) offers a variety of weekly specials including:
- French onion soup and beef minestrone
- Salt and vinegar chicken wings
- Garlic Buffalo parmesan chicken tenders
- Fried calamari
- Steak tips and grilled chicken
- A tuna melt
- A turkey bacon ranch wrap
- A Cape Cod Reuben
- Baked haddock Rockefeller with a Ritz topping and two sides.
- For dessert, grapenut pudding is available.
New Flavors at Tom & Jimmy’s Ice Cream
Tom & Jimmy’s, situated at 337 Winthrop St., has introduced new ice cream flavors, Twix and Milky Way, just in time for sweet cravings. Additionally, they are planning to open their fourth location in Raynham.
Special Burrito Bowl Deal
At The Burrito Bowl To-Go (342 Winthrop St.), you can enjoy burrito bowls for $10.99 every Wednesday.
If you have a special deal, menu item, or food-related event you’d like to share with local food enthusiasts, feel free to reach out via email.
For more culinary updates in Taunton, be sure to keep exploring local offerings and specials!
Local Wine Stores in Colorado Springs Brace for Impact of Proposed 200% Tariff on European Alcohol
Business owners in Colorado Springs are expressing concern over President Trump’s announcement of a potential 200% tariff on alcohol imported from Europe, should the European Union introduce a 50% tariff on American whiskey. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that this tariff would benefit U.S. wine and champagne businesses.
Local wine retailers are already grappling with the challenges posed by the industry. Andrew Yun, the manager at Pine Creek Wine & Spirits, highlighted the struggles faced by his business. He explained that the anticipated tariff could significantly impact his operations, especially given the razor-thin profit margins most wine retailers experience. He is apprehensive about whether the 200% tariff will actually be implemented.
Justin Niven, the manager of the Wine Gallery, remarked that this wouldn’t be the first time the wine industry has faced tariffs. The previous Trump administration imposed a 25% tariff on wines from France, Spain, and Germany in 2019, which had already driven up prices. Niven hopes that the situation does not escalate to the level of the proposed tariff.
Both managers are closely monitoring the evolving situation, acknowledging that, for now, the 200% tariff remains a threat rather than a certainty. They hope for stability in pricing amidst the uncertainty.
Pet Alliance Unveils 11th Annual ‘My Best Friend Wine Label Contest’
Furry friends have the opportunity to be featured on a wine bottle thanks to Orlando’s Pet Alliance and their 11th annual "My Best Friend Wine Label Contest" in partnership with Quantum Leap Winery. Pet parents can submit photos of their cats or dogs for a chance to have their beloved pet grace the label of the 2024 “My Best Friend Rescue Red Wine.”
Entries are accepted until July 31, with a $5 fee for each submission. Voting for the entries opens on August 1 and runs until August 24, with each vote requiring a $1 donation, which helps raise funds for the organization.
Steve Bardy, the executive director of Pet Alliance, expressed excitement over the contest, highlighting it as a wonderful way for pet owners to support their mission. "It’s always exciting to see proud pet parents showing off their adorable fur babies and seeing all the fun photos that come in," he noted.
The winning dog and cat will have their images, names, and stories featured on the wine label. Additionally, grand prize winners will receive a case of wine and a feature in Pet Alliance’s "Wags and Whiskers" newsletter. Runners-up in each category will also earn prizes, and all winners and their families will be invited to an event at Quantum Leap, the winery set to reopen this month at a new location on Lake Fairview.
Over the years, the contest has raised nearly $380,000, significantly aiding Pet Alliance, which provides shelter, medical care, and food assistance to over 3,500 homeless dogs and cats annually.
For those interested in participating, entries can be submitted through gogophotocontest.com/mybestfriend or directly at petallianceorlando.org.









