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Country Star Takes Stand Against Fan Behavior by Halting Concert Over Beer Can Incident
Country singer Braxton Keith recently confronted rowdy fans at his concert in Gilmer, Texas, after they threw beer cans onstage during his performance of "Honky Tonk City." Rather than allowing the disruptive behavior to continue, the 23-year-old artist stopped the show, expressing his discontent with the chaos. In a video shared on TikTok, Keith declared, "Hey listen up. Pause this s—," and emphasized that he didn’t come to the concert to have beer cans thrown at him.
As Keith scolded the crowd, he made a reference to fellow artist Gavin Adcock, known for having a rowdy concert experience, insisting that his fans should behave better: "Don’t be throwing f—ing beers out here." He pointed out that some fans at the front were getting splashed, which he knew would anger them, and later mentioned a young girl attending her first concert, stressing the need to maintain a good atmosphere.
The audience responded to his admonition with cheers, and Keith later posted the incident on social media with a message highlighting the embarrassing behavior and poor concert etiquette displayed. He underscored the importance of protecting the integrity of live performances and the enjoyment of all attendees.
Keith isn’t alone in addressing unruliness at concerts. Recently, Carly Pearce had to halt her performance in the United Kingdom to intervene in a fight among fans, reinforcing the idea that artists are taking a stand against unacceptable behavior at their shows.
Cheers to National Beer Day: Understanding the Impact of 2025 Tariffs on Beer Prices
Today marks National Beer Day, but many beer enthusiasts are contemplating the implications of new tariffs on their favorite brews. Recent changes in trade policies have led to a significant increase in the cost of beer, especially those packaged in aluminum cans, which make up the majority of beer sales in the U.S.
President Trump initiated a global trade conflict by imposing a 25% tariff on imported canned beer and empty aluminum cans. This decision follows a broader announcement of 10% tariffs on various imports, prompting retaliatory tariffs from other countries as well. The tariffs are expected to substantially raise prices for popular beer brands, particularly those sourced from Mexico, Canada, and China.
According to the Beer Institute, a remarkable 64.1% of beer distribution in 2023 was through aluminum cans, contrasting with just 26.9% from glass bottles. This has significant implications for breweries reliant on imported cans, including Constellation Brands, which imports most of its beer, such as Corona and Modelo. European brands like Guinness and Heineken are also affected.
While the tariffs do not apply directly to the beer itself, the cost of importing aluminum cans will be impacted, causing a ripple effect on pricing. The U.S. Census Bureau noted that beer imports exceeded $7.5 billion in 2024, with Mexico contributing over $6.3 billion, followed by the Netherlands and Ireland.
As beer lovers celebrate today, they must be aware of the potential for increased prices due to these new trade barriers.
What Makes Jamaican Rum Uniquely Jamaican?
In late 2024, Jamaican authorities revised the geographic indicator designation for Jamaican rum, stipulating that products aged outside the country would no longer qualify for this prestigious label. This has sparked a challenge from National Rums of Jamaica, which manages two of Jamaica’s six distilleries. The debate highlights the significance of geographical indicators in protecting the authenticity of products and their ties to cultural heritage.
To delve deeper into these issues, Carolyn Beeler from The World spoke with Enrico Bonadio, an intellectual property expert at City University of London. The discussion revolved around the importance of geographical indicators, not just for rum, but for preserving the cultural and historical significance of products like Jamaican rum throughout its storied past.
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Sober Cocktails and Nolo Drinks: The Chic New Trend Elevating Your Drinking Experience
With a growing trend towards mindful consumption, the popularity of NOLO (no and low alcohol) beverages is climbing among consumers, particularly the younger demographic. They seek alternatives that offer similar flavors and social experiences associated with traditional cocktails, yet with little to no alcohol.
As health-conscious drinkers embrace craft mocktails, alcohol-free spirits, and botanical-infused concoctions, the perception of drinking is evolving. The emergence of sober cocktails—zero-proof drinks—indicates a significant cultural shift towards mindful indulgence. Albert Gangmei, a mixologist at Loya in Taj Palace, New Delhi, explains that Gen Z is redefining drinking culture, favoring flavorful creativity over traditional high-ABV drinks. Modern sober cocktails boast the same artistry and complexity as their alcoholic counterparts, proving that enjoyment is not solely defined by alcohol consumption.
The trend is reflected in how bars create extensive menus highlighting ingredients, ABVs, and calorie counts, enabling a more informed drinking experience. Diners are increasingly interested in zero-proof sparkling wines, botanical spritzes, and kombucha-based cocktails—all offering the celebratory feeling of traditional beverages without intoxication.
The complexity of these sober cocktails sets them apart from conventional mocktails. High-quality non-alcoholic spirits and fresh botanicals ensure layers of flavor, enhancing the drinking experience. As this movement continues to evolve, establishments embrace these drinks as core offerings, rather than just alternatives. As Akshay Kumar, Assistant Manager at Adrift Kaya in JW Marriott New Delhi, points out, guests today desire beverages that are tasty, polished, and align with a health-conscious lifestyle.
The rising trend showcases an innovative mixology landscape, where indigenous ingredients and creative techniques combine to offer sophisticated, flavorful drinks, like the ‘First Taste of Loya’ or ‘Tamarind Fennel Soda.’ This progression signals that modern drinking culture will continue to shift, with consumers prioritizing health, taste, and ethical consumption in their beverage choices.
U.S. Wine Industry Faces Impending Tariffs: Impact on Domestic Wineries Unveiled
Last month, President Donald Trump announced a significant change in U.S. tariffs affecting wines imported from the European Union. Initially threatening a 200% tariff, the administration ultimately opted for a 20% tariff on all EU goods, including wine. This decision is causing concern within the U.S. wine industry, which heavily relies on European imports.
Damien Carney, owner of Avinage wine shop in Petaluma, California, relies on imported wines for 75% of his stock. He fears that the tariffs will force him to raise prices or alter his business model entirely, as his customer base prefers European wines over domestic options. Carney notes, "Simply giving them a wine from Sonoma County or Paso Robles is not going to be the same as the wines that they know and love."
The timing of the tariffs poses additional challenges for the wine sector, already facing declining sales. A report from Silicon Valley Bank highlighted a downturn in interest from younger consumers and the competition posed by beverages like hard seltzer.
Ben Aneff from the U.S. Wine Trade Alliance emphasizes the financial strain the tariffs will impose, stating that around $4.5 billion in imported EU wine generates about $25 billion in revenue for U.S. businesses. The impact will affect not just retailers but also restaurants that rely on imported wines for profitable margins.
Interestingly, domestic wineries are not immune to the fallout. John Benedetti, owner of Sante Arcangeli winery in California, has already been dealing with high tariffs on materials from China and Mexico, including barrels sourced from France. He expressed frustration after losing a significant opportunity to enter the Canadian market due to reciprocal tariffs affecting U.S. products.
As these tariffs come into effect, U.S. wine businesses—both importers and domestic producers—are bracing for an uncertain economic landscape.
Celebrating 30 Years: The Legacy of Tuscan Wine by Napa Valley and Tuscany Leaders
A historic Tuscan wine vertical recently took place at Christie’s Auction House in New York City, celebrating three decades of Tenuta Luce’s Luce della Vite wines. The event highlighted the collaboration of two iconic wine families: Frescobaldi and Mondavi. These families, with deep roots in Tuscany and Napa Valley, have successfully blended two distinct grape varieties—Sangiovese and Merlot—creating wines that exemplify this partnership.
Amid a backdrop of a stunning film that showcased the enchanting Montalcino vineyards, wine professionals gathered to taste various vintages under the guidance of winemaker Alessandro Marini. The event demonstrated how these two opposing grape types could harmoniously coexist, particularly under the expertise of the Frescobaldi family, which boasts over 700 years of winemaking history, and the Mondavi family, known for their innovation.
During the vertical tasting, attendees explored a range of vintages, numbering from the initial 1994 release to the newly released 2022 vintage. The wines reflected their unique circumstances, with standout years like 2009, 2015, and 2016 exhibiting exceptional quality. Even the more challenging 2002 vintage surprised tasters, showcasing the ability of great producers to maintain high quality across different years.
The Luce estate, situated in the warmer southwestern region of Montalcino, benefits from a remarkable temperature swing that contributes to the ripeness and flavor of the grapes. The combination of schist soil for Sangiovese and clay-rich terroir for Merlot allows for optimal growing conditions, resulting in wines that are both nuanced and elegant.
The event at Christie’s, embellished with exquisite art displayed throughout, paired perfectly with the wines crafted by these pioneering families. Each vintage tasted conveyed a story of meticulous craftsmanship, tradition, and a commitment to excellence that will undoubtedly continue for years to come.
For more about Tenuta Luce and their wines, visit Tenuta Luce.
Michter’s New Barrel Strength Whiskey: A Game-Changer for Rye Skeptics
Michter’s Distillery, known for its high-quality spirits, recently released its new US*1 Barrel Strength Rye. This latest addition is attracting attention for its unique characteristics that might even win over those who typically shy away from rye whiskey.
Michter’s, based in Kentucky, has gained a dedicated following due to its limited special releases, which include age-stated bourbons and ryes, along with rare expressions like their 20 and 25-year-old whiskeys. Their regular offerings also emphasize unique production techniques, such as a toasted finish that they helped popularize. The US*1 Barrel Strength Rye, however, is part of a more limited release that typically generates excitement among whiskey enthusiasts.
The release in February 2025 boasts an impressive proof, with our sampled bottle coming in at 55.1% ABV, slightly below the average of 55.25% for this batch. This proof is relatively lower than some competitors due to Michter’s decision to use a lower barrel entry proof of 103—significantly under the legal maximum. This deliberate choice allows the whiskey to draw more flavor from the wood during maturation, potentially enhancing its taste profile.
While the exact grain mixture in the mashbill remains undisclosed, Michter’s emphasizes its Kentucky style, indicating that rye is the primary grain, accompanied by corn and malted barley.
Master Distiller Dan McKee noted that many tasters, initially skeptical of rye, are often pleasantly surprised by Michter’s offerings. The new barrel strength rye promises a balance of traditional rye spice with a contrasting sweetness, aiming to introduce newcomers to rye whiskey in an approachable manner.
In tasting the new release, we found the aroma highlighted a pronounced rye spiciness with hints of dark butterscotch and subtle herbal nuances. The flavor profile delivers a silky mouthfeel with notes of red fruit, dark chocolate, light cinnamon, and a citrus zest finish that evokes the sensation of a well-crafted cocktail.
Michter’s US*1 Barrel Strength Rye is available for a suggested retail price of $120 and is a limited release, making it a sought-after find for whiskey fans.
Nestlé Launches Maison Perrier Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Cocktails in the US
Nestlé has announced the launch of its Maison Perrier line of non-alcoholic sparkling cocktails in the U.S., originally introduced in Canada in 2024. This new line, called Maison Perrier Chic, features four flavors inspired by traditional cocktails: Daiqui’red, Piña Fizz, Peach Spritzer, and Citrus Fizz, each made with real fruit juice and containing 30 calories or fewer per can.
The mocktail market is booming, valued at $8.2 billion in 2023 and projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5.7% by 2030, as reported by Grand View Research.
The rise in the mocktail sector aligns with consumers’ shifting preferences towards reducing alcohol consumption while maintaining the flavor and social aspects of traditional drinks. This trend has opened opportunities for various beverage companies to create non-alcoholic options, expanding their product lines.
For instance, Molson Coors formed a partnership with Naked Life to launch non-alcoholic canned cocktails in the U.S., while smaller brands like Waterloo, Mingle Mocktails, Free AF, and Ghia’s Le Spritz are also tapping into this market.
Nestlé, focused on its Perrier brand’s premium positioning, sees mocktails as a strategic growth area. "Maison Perrier Chic brings a new level of sophistication to sparkling beverages while reimagining the cocktail flavor experience," said Molly Lyons, a senior marketing manager at Nestlé. She emphasizes that this line allows for flavor celebration and craftsmanship without the presence of alcohol.
Citrus Fizz will be available exclusively at Whole Foods, while the other flavors will launch at various retailers, including Amazon, later this month. The Maison Perrier brand was launched to encourage innovation within the premium beverage space, alongside its zero sugar product line, Maison Perrier Forever.
Buzz-Worthy Sips: Carneros Resort Introduces Exciting Bee-Focused Cocktails
FARM Restaurant + Bar at Carneros Resort & Spa is introducing a honey-inspired cocktail menu, featuring drinks like the Hive 75, Bees Knees, and Liquid Gold. Alongside these cocktails, guests can enjoy Morgan Brewing’s “Bees Better Have My Honey” wheat beer. Nonalcoholic options will also be available, including Bees with No Knees and Hibiscus Hive, which come paired with bee pollen pâte de fruit. A unique offering for resort guests is the Bee Cottage, a special sensory retreat where visitors can experience a sound bath created by live beehives located beneath the relaxation bed.
In addition to these offerings, Yountville has launched its first Wine & Beer Passport, giving users access to special discounts and two-for-one deals at 15 local wineries and breweries from April 1 to August 31. The passport is priced at $95 for two people, with participating venues including Bell Wine Cellars, Chandon, and Cliff Lede Vineyards.
Downtown Joe’s, a popular late-night spot in Napa, is undergoing a significant renovation of its patio, which will feature a retractable roof and expanded seating. The renovations aim to enhance the outdoor experience for patrons, making it an inviting destination throughout the year.
Furthermore, United Airlines has partnered with fine wine importer Demeine Estates to provide premium Napa Valley wines to passengers flying in its Polaris business class, contributing to an upgraded onboard dining experience.
Tasty Tuesday: Delightful Cocktails, Irresistible Treats, and Fun Clicks & Pops!
COLUMBIA, SC — As the Columbia Food and Wine Festival approaches, Tyler Ryan interviewed Matt Catchpole, the owner of the new listening room, Ikie Lu. The conversation focused on the blend of vintage records, engaging drinks, and delicious snacks available at Ikie Lu. For those interested in exploring more about Ikie Lu’s offerings, additional information can be found on the Columbia Food and Wine Festival website.