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Understanding Tariffs: What They Mean for Your Beer, Regardless of Its Brew Location
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You may find yourself sighing over rising prices in today’s economy, and unfortunately, the cost of your favorite beer is also on the rise. Due to recent U.S. tariffs imposed internationally, beer drinkers can expect to pay more for their favorite brews, adding yet another layer of complexity to an already challenging economic landscape.
According to Bart Watson, president of the Brewers Association, the beer industry is facing significant uncertainty. This uncertainty largely stems from the increased import taxes on key ingredients and packaging materials.
Local Brewing Challenges
Even local breweries rely on ingredients sourced from afar. While some hops are grown in the U.S., others come from countries like New Zealand and Germany. Specific varieties, particularly “noble hops,” essential for crafting traditional lagers, are exclusively European. Furthermore, vital grains such as barley and wheat often hail from Canada and Australia. With this broad sourcing, shaping unique beer flavors becomes challenging if prices rise due to tariffs.
The Impact of Aluminum and Steel Tariffs
The shift towards canned beers in recent years has been popular among craft breweries. However, the implementation of a 25% tariff on aluminum cans is poised to further elevate costs for consumers. In fact, many kegs are sourced from Europe and China, meaning inflated keg prices will inevitably lead to higher prices for your favorite drafts as well.
Many breweries also face escalating costs for brewing equipment, as a significant portion of critical supplies, including stainless steel components, is sourced internationally. With price forecasts suggesting that a six-pack may rise to $20 and pints could cost up to $12, the financial burden is set to be significant for many breweries.
A Call to Action
These tariff impositions come at a critical time for the beer industry, which is still recuperating from the fallout of COVID-19 lockdowns. Consumers who wish to support their local breweries can make a difference by purchasing directly from them and visiting taprooms whenever possible. While adjustments to personal spending may be necessary, choosing quality over quantity can enhance your beer experience.
In these turbulent times, it is crucial to voice your concerns to your representatives and stay informed on how these tariffs will affect the beer industry in the long term.
For further insight into the economic implications of import tariffs affecting various industries, you can read more about the challenges faced by local coffee roasters here.
Get Ready for Whiskey Wednesdays: Round 15 – Cheers to Good Times!
Tickets are currently available for Round 15 of the Whiskey Wednesdays charity raffle series, organized by Elizabethtown-based nonprofit Give 270. The series will run each Wednesday from April 9 to June 25, featuring a unique "Odd or Even" raffle format with a selection of valuable prizes hidden behind 12 locker doors, along with two grand prizes at the end.
Participants can look forward to an impressive lineup, including a six-bottle Weller “Rainbow” Vertical, a two-bottle set of George T. Stagg and Stagg Jr. Batch 1, and multiple bottles from the Van Winkle collection, among others. Each ticket will offer five chances to win each week, in addition to four weekly bonus prizes. Noteworthy bonus offerings include two Willet 8 year Rye MANABOUTTOWN Give 270 Single Barrels, a Luca Mariano Give 270 Pick, and a Buffalo Trace Give 270 Pick.
Each week, the winners will advance towards the chance of winning one of two ultimate prizes: Buffalo Trace O.F.C. Vintage 2005 for odd-numbered weeks, and Double Eagle Very Rare for even-numbered weeks.
All proceeds from the raffle support various local organizations and initiatives, with weekly funds benefiting different causes, such as the Elizabethtown Community and Technical College Foundation, Greenspace, and the Kosair for Kids NICU at Baptist Health Hardin.
Eric Clemens, board chair of Give 270, expressed optimism about the impact of the raffle, stating, “Whiskey Wednesdays has become a staple here at Give 270, and Round 15 promises to be bigger and better than ever. Every ticket purchased makes a difference."
The Whiskey Wednesdays Round 15 raffles will be conducted live on Give 270’s Facebook page and YouTube channel at 8 p.m. each Wednesday from April 9 to June 25. Tickets are priced at $5 each, and there is no limit on the number of tickets one can purchase.
To buy tickets, view the full list of prizes, or keep up with Give 270’s events, visit give270.org.
Metallica to Rock Syracuse: Pop-Up Shop, Whiskey Tasting, and More!
It’s Metallica week in Syracuse! The legendary metal band is set to perform at the JMA Wireless Dome on Saturday, April 19, with over 46,000 tickets already sold. This concert is being touted as the second-largest event in the history of the venue. For those still searching for tickets, a limited number are available on platforms like Ticketmaster, StubHub, and Vivid Seats.
But the excitement doesn’t end with the concert. There are several events leading up to the show that fans can participate in. On Friday, April 18, the band will premiere their new documentary, “Metallica Saved My Life,” at Regal Destiny USA. The first screening has sold out, but accessible seats remain for the second showing.
Additionally, fans can visit a Metallica pop-up shop at the Westcott Theater on Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. The shop will feature exclusive merchandise, including a special concert poster, event t-shirts, skateboards, and a unique orange-and-blue splatter vinyl of Metallica’s album, “72 Seasons.” Fans will also have a chance to win prizes, including “Snake Pit” passes to the concert, through the “M72 Fan Card” program.
On the same day as the pop-up, master distiller Rob Dietrich will host a meet-and-greet at the TisMart Cigar Shop and Lounge in North Syracuse to celebrate the band’s Blackened American Whiskey. The meet-and-greet will run from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. for attendees aged 21 and over.
Moreover, Metallica is partnering with the American Red Cross for blood drives in Liverpool on Thursday and Friday, with donors receiving a complimentary Metallica shirt. Additionally, on Saturday, they will host a community service opportunity through their All Within My Hands foundation at the Food Bank of Central New York.
This performance marks Metallica’s first concert in Syracuse in nearly three decades, making it a historic event for fans and the community alike. It is also their sole stop in New York state for their M72 world tour in 2025.
Metallica remains one of the top-selling music acts globally, with over 125 million albums sold. Their iconic songs include “Enter Sandman,” “Nothing Else Matters,” and “Master of Puppets.”
Former NBA Star Defends Luka Doncic Amid Backlash for Beer Drinking: “We Drank Straight from the Bottle!
In a shocking move, the Dallas Mavericks traded their star player, Luka Doncic, to the Los Angeles Lakers, leaving fans and experts scratching their heads for over seventy days. While the franchise claimed the trade was aimed at strengthening their defense, many suspect deeper issues were at play within the organization, particularly concerning the relationship between Doncic and the front office.
After a triumphant 2024 season where the Mavericks reached the NBA Finals for the first time since their 2011 championship victory, a notable incident raised eyebrows. Following their victory in the Western Conference Finals, Doncic was seen enjoying a beer, only to have it abruptly taken away by assistant GM Michael Finley. The moment, originally treated lightly on social media, has since garnered serious attention as a potential sign of tensions within the team.
Insiders reported that team management expressed concerns about Doncic’s drinking and lifestyle choices, which included hookah smoking. Criticism of the Mavericks began surfacing, particularly following a backlash from players and analysts. Gilbert Arenas even mocked the situation, questioning why management would concern themselves with a single beer when Doncic showed up to dominate in subsequent games.
General Manager Nico Harrison’s decision to trade Doncic is viewed as one of the most baffling in NBA history, especially now that the Mavericks have missed the playoffs altogether. Former players, including Stephen Jackson, Vernon Maxwell, and Matt Barnes, discussed the absurdity of scrutinizing Doncic for drinking, sharing their own wild celebration stories. Maxwell recounted nights of revelry while still managing a full season, while Barnes pointed out that if the league truly understood player behavior, they wouldn’t have made such a big deal over a beer.
Reflecting on past NBA culture, the discussion highlighted how inconsistent attitudes toward player lifestyles have evolved. The consensus among these players is clear: had Luka been treated differently, the Mavericks might still have their star, and it’s possible that the decision-makers would be the ones seeking new opportunities instead.
Hulk Hogan’s Real American Beer Now Available at Walmart in 8 States Ahead of WrestleMania 41
Hulk Hogan’s Real American Beer, a tribute to the iconic wrestling star, has made a significant retail breakthrough by launching in select Walmart stores across eight states. This expansion is particularly timely, coinciding with WrestleMania 41 weekend in Las Vegas, where fans are eager for a themed beverage to enjoy alongside the event.
The beer was co-founded by Hogan, whose real name is Terry Bollea, last summer as a nod to both his wrestling legacy and his popular theme song "Real American." Currently, the beer is available in Walmart locations in Florida, Illinois, Idaho, Michigan, Missouri, New York, Ohio, and Wisconsin, contributing to a total presence in 23 states and quickly establishing itself in the light beer market.
CEO Terri Francis emphasized that the Walmart partnership is a significant leap forward for the brand, highlighting the rapid sales and demand seen when entering new markets. The beer is crafted with American activities such as tailgating and barbecues in mind, aiming to capture the essence of summer fun.
The connection between the beverage and wrestling is commercially beneficial, leveraging the immense WWE fanbase. With WrestleMania 41’s two-night event unfolding, the beer is expected to gain even more visibility and sales. Hogan expressed excitement about the product’s availability at Walmart, noting the passion of the team behind the brand to create a unifying drink for Americans.
Moving forward, the company is poised for further distribution, anticipating growth as the summer season approaches and the WrestleMania hype continues. The Real American Beer brand appears set to strengthen its presence in the market significantly.
19 Refreshingly Citrusy Cocktails to Create with Cointreau
This collection features 19 refreshing cocktails, each showcasing Cointreau in unique ways. From the classic Corpse Reviver No. 2, which replaces Lillet with Cocchi Americano for a zesty twist, to the Cointreau Spritz, a simple mix of sparkling wine, Cointreau, fresh orange juice, and club soda, ideal for brunch.
Among the highlights are:
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Sangria: Steeping the mix for at least an hour allows the fruit to boost flavor.
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Frozen Margarita: A customizable blend perfect for hot days, just add your favorite frozen fruits.
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Whiskey Daisy: A twist on the whiskey sour that substitutes simple syrup with Cointreau, enhancing sweetness.
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Mai Tai: This tropical delight promises fun and refreshment, perfect with just a brief shake.
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Blackberry Margarita: Combines fresh lime juice and orange liqueur with muddled blackberries for a fruity flavor.
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Classic Margarita: Stresses the importance of quality triple sec for a balanced drink.
For full recipes and more engaging cocktail ideas, visit Epicurious.
Tee Time and Tastings: Enjoy Whiskey, Golf, and a Round with Wyndham Clark!
I recently had the opportunity to interview PGA Tour golfer Wyndham Clark, who shared insights about his career, his passion for whiskey, and an exciting sweepstakes that offers a lucky winner a chance to hit the golf course with him.
Clark and Blade and Bow Bourbon have teamed up for a unique sweepstakes, inviting one winner and three friends to join him for an 18-hole round at a premier golf destination in the U.S. This collaboration celebrates the long-standing tradition of enjoying a drink—often whiskey—after a round of golf, which has roots dating back to the game’s origins in Scotland.
During our conversation, Clark reflected on his career and his relationship with whiskey—a journey that began during a memorable fishing trip with friends in college, where enjoying whiskey became a bonding activity. Over time, he developed a keen appreciation for bourbon, developing a collection that he describes as a bit on the snobbier side.
The sweepstakes is set to run until June 15, 2025, culminating in a summer golf adventure. Clark emphasized the connection between golf and whiskey, highlighting how drinking bourbon post-round has been a part of golfing culture for ages. The winner can expect to learn from Clark, gain valuable swing insights, and hear stories that reveal his personality beyond the professional setting.
Clark reminisced about early lessons in his golfing career, such as a pivotal moment with a coach that taught him the importance of hitting a cut rather than a draw—a technique he’s since mastered. He noted that both golf and bourbon reward patience and precision, qualities he values in both his craft and his choice of drink.
Looking ahead, Clark is eager about the upcoming Major tournaments and is hopeful about making the Ryder Cup team. He also expressed a desire to engage more with fishing, a hobby that has taken a backseat to his busy golf schedule.
For those inspired by Clark’s journey and wanting a chance to connect with him on the golf course, the sweepstakes is a perfect opportunity. The details can be found at bladeandbowwhiskey.com/sweepstakes.
This unique connection between golf and whiskey highlights the camaraderie that the two traditions foster, making it a memorable experience for all involved.
Dolph Lundgren’s New Chapter: Investing in America and Embracing Citizenship
Dolph Lundgren, known for his role as Ivan Drago in "Rocky," has ventured into the world of vodka production with his new brand, Hard Cut Vodka. The actor, who studied chemical engineering before his acting career, was spurred into this business after a date night with his fiancée, Emma Krokdal. While trying various vodkas in Santa Barbara, Lundgren found none to his liking, leading Krokdal to challenge him to create his own.
Lundgren took this to heart, deciding that the vodka market seemed less exciting compared to other spirits like tequila and whiskey. He and Krokdal focused on sourcing ingredients from Idaho, using local russet potatoes and water from the Rocky Mountains to achieve a distinct taste. Their efforts paid off, as Hard Cut Vodka won a Double Gold award at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, recognized for its smooth flavor complemented by bright notes of green apple and butterscotch.
Lundgren also emphasized the importance of American production, especially amidst ongoing trade challenges. He became an American citizen in 2024, sharing this journey with Krokdal, who is originally from Norway. He expressed pride in his new citizenship, noting that America has played a significant role in his life and career.
Reflecting on his career, Lundgren recalled the transformative moment of attending the premiere of "Rocky IV," where he felt an immediate rush of fame. While he navigated the complexities of celebrity life, he established lasting friendships, particularly with Sylvester Stallone, whom he has worked with for over 40 years.
Overall, Lundgren’s journey from a Swedish immigrant to an American citizen and entrepreneur exemplifies his deep connection to the United States, where he has built a successful career and now aims to contribute to its vibrancy through his vodka brand.
Exploring the Paradox: Why Atlanta’s Wine Bar Scene Thrives Amidst Wine Industry Challenges
Wine enthusiasts have been exposed to alarming news regarding the industry in recent years, with concerns about declining consumption, diminished production, climate change, and tariffs. However, the wine scene in Atlanta tells a different story, marked by a notable increase in wine bar openings.
In 2025 alone, two acclaimed chefs from Atlanta have introduced ambitious wine bars to the city’s culinary landscape. Steven Satterfield of Miller Union recently opened Madeira Park in Poncey-Highland alongside sommelier Tim Willard, while chef Terry Koval launched Fawn, emphasizing European wines and Italian amaro in Decatur.
Beyond these newcomers, Side Saddle Wine Saloon is set to open in Boulevard Heights later this month, augmenting the expanding wine landscape. Additionally, local wine entrepreneurs Jessena and Michael Waldo have established a tasting room for their Divinely Elegant Vines brand in Austell.
In recent years, several more wine-centric establishments have opened, including Commune in Avondale Estates and Marietta Proper on Marietta Square. Marietta Proper even received a James Beard Award semifinalist nomination for the Best New Bar.
Both Satterfield and Koval are committed to emphasizing wine in their new ventures, seeing metro Atlanta diners show a keen interest in high-quality wines from smaller producers. Despite the prevalent anxiety surrounding the wine industry, experts indicate a disconnection between these gloomy forecasts and the vibrant wine scene in Atlanta.
Various industry professionals, including Perrine Prieur Gallardo, owner of Perrine’s Wine, noted that the larger wine producers bear the brunt of the industry’s challenges, while opportunities abound for smaller establishments. Young consumers are increasingly valuing wine quality, with interests shifting toward natural and organic options.
Tariffs, while a concern for many, have not deterred new ventures. Previous tariff scenarios during the Trump administration had already prepared the industry for potential price increases. Carson Demmond, owner of Rive Gauche Wine Company, observed that businesses have developed resilience strategies to navigate such obstacles.
Despite their struggles, the U.S. wine market remains substantial, with nearly 900 million gallons consumed in 2023 alone, and total wine sales surpassing $106 billion. Gallardo and Travis point to a noticeable rise in customer interest toward smaller, artisanal wine labels and a deeper awareness of the wine industry, suggesting that the Atlanta wine scene could indeed flourish amidst the challenges faced by the overarching industry.
Oregon’s Cult Favorite White Wine Set to Make a Major Splash
Big Salt, a co-fermented white wine from Oregon, has steadily gained a reputation among wine enthusiasts but is now poised for major growth in popularity.
My first encounter with Big Salt occurred at The Kingstide in South Carolina, where I was drawn to a glass of this unique wine to pair with oysters. Initially taken aback by its floral and fruity aromas, I was soon captivated by a surprising burst of salinity and zest upon tasting it. My intrigue led me to delve deeper into the brand, discovering its underground following likened to a secret club among wine aficionados.
Vonda Freeman, director of beverage programs at The Indigo Road Hospitality Group, recalls her first experience with Big Salt during a wine tasting. The wine captivated her so much that she wanted to relive the moment, appreciating its beauty and expressiveness.
Big Salt was introduced in 2016 by John House and his wife Ksenija Kostic House as part of their Ovum brand, which was established in 2011. John was inspired to create this wine after discovering co-fermented wines in Spain, leading him to realize that he could experiment with blending grapes from different vineyards.
Influenced by a conversation with winemaker Raul Perez about the potential of co-fermentation, John began to develop his vision. After experimenting with various blends, he noted how co-fermentation produced a more complex and aromatic wine—akin to recording a live music performance rather than simply piecing tracks together.
Big Salt is crafted from high-quality grapes sourced from premium vineyards, yet it retails for just $20, making it accessible while still maintaining quality. The brand has further expanded its offerings with PNK Salt and Big Salt Orange Rosé, yet it continues to evoke knowing smiles and admiration among industry insiders.
Freeman aptly summarizes the essence of Ovum’s creations: just as listening to AM radio in stereo connects you to the roots of music, Big Salt captures the attention and palate of its drinkers through its unique profile.