On the early morning of November 2, 1919, a raid in Casper, Wyoming, on a stash of over 200 whiskey cases turned into chaos and tragedy. The Natrona County sheriff, Pat Royce, led a team of law enforcement officers into a garage suspected of harboring illegal liquor, but the operation quickly spiraled out of control.

At approximately 4 a.m., as Sheriff Royce and his deputy entered the premises, a confrontation ensued when the homeowner and his accomplice emerged with shotguns drawn. In the ensuing chaos, a deputy was shot and killed, and the homeowner was wounded. Shockingly, the sheriff had failed to present a warrant for the raid, and those who were charged stated they did not know the officers were attempting to execute a law enforcement operation.

The events of the raid garnered significant public attention and outrage. All individuals involved in the shooting, including those charged with murder, would later be acquitted at trial, a verdict met with a rare editorial in the Casper Daily Tribune calling for the sheriff and his deputies to resign.

Legal commentator Daniel Fetsco noted that the public’s sympathy for the defendants reflected a broader national backlash against Prohibition enforcement. The case occurred during an era when policing was evolving, and the tactics used by law enforcement were not well-defined. As such, the raid and its aftermath not only highlighted the challenges in enforcing Prohibition laws but also set off a series of legal and moral disputes regarding police practices of the time.

In the wake of the raid, Sheriff Royce and Deputy William E. Kilgore were arrested for assaulting one of the suspects, Hugh Armstrong, during the operation. Public discontent led local officials to appoint special counsel to oversee the case. Armstrong’s defense centered on the claim that he was unaware that those confronting him were law officers, and this narrative resonated with the jury, leading to a swift not-guilty verdict.

Armstrong, after his acquittal, faced additional charges relating to possession of the whiskey but was again cleared. He eventually returned to a peaceful life, becoming a respected community member in Missouri, while Sheriff Royce continued his law enforcement career until retiring, and Deputy Kilgore transitioned to work as a railroad special agent. The chaotic events of that day would linger in the community’s memory, emblematic of the tumultuous and often violent nature of Prohibition in America.

For further reading on the historical context of the whiskey raid, see the Casper Daily Tribune.

J. Rieger Co., based in Kansas City, has made a significant mark by releasing its first-ever home-distilled rye whiskey. This addition to the whiskey landscape comes as a nostalgic nod to the historic rye production in the United States, harkening back to when rye whiskey was more popular than bourbon in states like Pennsylvania and Maryland. As the whiskey scene evolves, J. Rieger Co. seeks to establish itself among the growing craft distilleries producing quality rye.

The distillery, founded in 2014 by Ryan Maybee and Andy Rieger—who is the great-great-great grandson of a liquor pioneer—started its distilling operations in 2019. This new straight rye whiskey is the third product in its whiskey collection, joining Rieger Straight Bourbon Whiskey and Rieger Kansas City Whiskey.

Contrary to many rye whiskeys, which often use a 95% rye mash bill, J. Rieger Co. has opted for a 96% rye, with 4% malted barley, as a way to differentiate itself from competitors. This recipe, inspired by discussions with the legendary distiller Dave Pickerell, aims to bring a unique flavor profile that stands apart from prevailing norms.

After sampling the Rieger Straight Rye, the flavors emerge with a significant spiced and floral aroma at 90 proof. Tasting notes highlight a delightful fusion of sweetness and spice, featuring cinnamon, honeysuckle, and salted caramel, leading to a long-lasting, oak-forward finish reminiscent of holiday spices. The whiskey also boasts unexpected fruity notes, including stone fruit and cherry, contributing to a pleasant complexity throughout.

Available for a suggested price of $30 to $35 per 750ml bottle, Rieger Straight Rye Whiskey is set to be distributed across Missouri and 24 other states starting February 2025. This craft operation produces around 1,500 barrels a year, showcasing its distinct approach to whiskey-making amidst larger distilleries in the industry.

The U.S. government has officially recognized American Single Malt Whiskey as a distinct type of whiskey, a significant change that took 52 years to achieve. This new designation, announced by the Alcohol & Tobacco Tax & Trade Bureau (TTB) at the end of December, took effect on January 19, marking a pivotal moment for American whiskey producers and enthusiasts alike.

The origins of American Single Malt can be traced back a few years, yet it was not until recently that the category gained official status. Early distillers, influenced by the craft brewing movement and traditional Scottish whisky practices, began producing single malt whiskeys, often labeling them unofficially. In 2016, the American Single Malt Commission was formed to advocate for formal recognition, culminating in the TTB’s proposal of a definition in 2022. After two years and over 1,000 public letters to the TTB, the standards for American Single Malt were finally established.

According to the TTB, the criteria for American Single Malt include:

• Must be made from 100% malted barley, distilled entirely at a single distillery.
• Must be mashed, distilled, and matured in the United States.
• Must be aged in oak casks not exceeding 700 liters.
• Distilled at no more than 160 proof (80% alcohol by volume).
• Bottled at 80 proof or higher.

As this category develops, many find it to be a delightful blend of Scotch and bourbon flavors. Here are four standout American Single Malt whiskeys to consider:

1. Little Rest American Single Malt Whiskey ($100)

This whiskey is ideal for fans of floral, non-peaty spirits. Created by Shane Fraser, who has roots in Scotland, Little Rest brings a floral bouquet on every sip. It was recognized as one of the top whiskeys of the year.

2. Stranahan’s Original Single Malt Whiskey ($50.99)

A great option for those new to American Single Malts, it was named the World’s Best Whiskey for 2024 at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. With clean and smooth oak and spice notes, it showcases the best of both Scotch and bourbon styles.

3. Wine Club First Meeting, Cedar Ridge Distillery ($100)

Part of the QuintEssential Special Release series, this whiskey is uniquely aged in a mix of wine casks, providing rich flavors and a floral finish with hints of peated malt.

4. The Macklowe American Single Malt Whiskey Gold Edition ($295)

Targeted as a luxury whiskey, it offers a smooth start with an expressive finish, showcasing oak-forward flavors interspersed with floral notes.

The recognition of American Single Malt Whiskey not only celebrates its growing popularity but also promises to enhance the whiskey landscape in the U.S. with diverse and flavorful expressions for enthusiasts to explore.

Recently, the renowned cocktail destination, Sexy Fish, announced the launch of its own-label vodka, aptly named Sexy Fish Vodka. This new vodka is a collaboration with Hawkridge Distillers, located in North Wessex Downs, United Kingdom. The spirit is produced through a meticulous process of double distillation, triple filtration, and is finished with honey, resulting in a smooth and flavorful 84-proof vodka.

Xavier Landais, Director of Beverage at Caprice Holdings, shared insights on the significance of this launch. He emphasized the importance of both the quality of the liquid and the overall dining experience, stating, “Vodka is our best-performing spirit, but unfortunately, in this category, it’s often about branding rather than the liquid itself.” By creating their own vodka, Sexy Fish aims to enhance its offerings, ensuring that guests enjoy a high-quality spirit that pairs beautifully with their signature sushi and sashimi dishes, including the creation of the Sexy Fish Martini.

For fans looking to purchase this exclusive vodka, it is currently only available at Sexy Fish locations in London, Manchester, and Miami, priced at $16 for a 2-ounce pour and $550 for a 750ml bottle.

Rosa Blanca, a new Cuban café and rum bar, is set to open in the first quarter of 2025 at The Nines apartment building located at 950 Hamilton St. in downtown Allentown. The establishment is part of a culinary expansion by renowned chef José Garces, a James Beard Award winner, known for his expertise in Spanish and Latin-American cuisine.

Before opening, Rosa Blanca will host two hiring events to build its team. These will take place at the Renaissance Allentown Hotel ballroom on February 11 from 12 PM to 3 PM and on February 17 from 3 PM to 6 PM. The events are expected to fill various hourly positions including bartenders, servers, baristas, support staff, line cooks, prep hands, and dish hands. Those interested may apply on-site or bring a resume, and a Spanish-speaking team member will assist.

The restaurant is projected to open in March and will operate as a café during the day, offering Cuban coffee and pastries, while transforming into a tropical rum bar in the evening. The menu promises hearty Cuban dishes alongside comfort food staples, featuring a variety of soups, salads, empanadas, and sandwiches.

Garces has expressed excitement about his decision to open Rosa Blanca in Allentown, citing the city’s ongoing revitalization and the vision of City Center Group, a developer involved in downtown projects. His investments aim to enhance the city’s culinary scene and provide vibrant gathering spots for residents and visitors alike.

Rosa Blanca’s decor will reflect an Art Deco style, aiming to evoke the glamour of Cuba’s Golden Age. The 1,500-square-foot space will accommodate approximately 40 diners, with an additional 30 seats available outside and a walk-up service window. Garces’s restaurant will join other new establishments in Allentown’s Downtown West area, which has seen significant growth in recent years with the opening of residential communities and entertainment venues.

This endeavor not only showcases Garces’s culinary prowess but also serves as a testament to Allentown’s transformation into a thriving environment for food and culture.

The U.S. government has officially recognized American Single Malt Whiskey as a new category. This announcement by the Alcohol & Tobacco Tax & Trade Bureau (TTB) took effect on January 19, marking the first addition of a whiskey type in 52 years.

American single malt whiskeys have been emerging over the past few years, although initially the designation was unofficial. Distilleries inspired by craft brewing and traditional Scottish whisky began creating these spirits. In 2016, the American Single Malt Commission was formed to push for recognition, ultimately culminating in a definition proposal in 2022 and a two-year wait for its finalization.

According to the TTB, for a whiskey to be classified as American Single Malt, it must meet specific criteria, including being made from 100% malted barley, distilled entirely at one distillery in the U.S., matured in oak casks, and bottled at no less than 80 proof.

The new category has gained popularity, blending characteristics of Scotch and bourbon. Here are four notable American Single Malt whiskeys to explore:

Little Rest American Single Malt Whiskey ($100)

A floral delight crafted by Shane Fraser, originally from Scotland. This whiskey offers a bouquet of floral notes and is an excellent choice for those who enjoy soft flavors.

Stranahan’s Original Single Malt Whiskey ($50.99)

This award-winning spirit, recognized as the World’s Best Whiskey for 2024 at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, combines elements of Scotch and bourbon with a clean oak and spice finish.

Wine Club First Meeting, Cedar Ridge Distillery ($100)

This unique offering is part of a special release series and aged in wine casks, yielding a rich spirit with floral hints and occasional peated malt characteristics.

The Macklowe American Single Malt Whiskey Gold Edition ($295)

Promoted as a luxury whiskey, this smooth spirit develops complexity with oak-forward flavors and floral notes, justifying its premium price.

For further details, check out the following links:

• 5 Must-Try Whiskeys From 2024
• Best American Single Malt Whiskey According to Top Shelf
• World’s Best Bourbon According to the San Francisco Spirits Festival