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Brewzle’s Creator Announces Exciting New Distillery Opening in Opelika
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The creator of the popular whiskey social media brand Brewzle, TJ Gamble, is embarking on a new venture by opening a distillery named Oak Bowery in Opelika. The Opelika City Council has approved tax abatements and exemptions for this project, allowing construction to commence.
Gamble, who has grown the Brewzle brand to over 1.5 million followers across various platforms, expressed his passion for Opelika, where he has lived for over a decade. He highlighted the town’s delightful mix of small-town charm and modern infrastructure as key reasons for choosing it as the location for his distillery.
The distillery will be situated at 1200 1st Ave., offering 4,500 square feet of production space and room for expansion, including a tasting room and barrel storage. The total investment for the Oak Bowery project exceeds $1.14 million, and it is expected to create around 20 jobs in its first four years.
Gamble’s vision for Oak Bowery aligns with Opelika’s vibrant culture and economic growth. Mayor Gary Fuller welcomed the project, emphasizing its potential to enhance local tourism and create jobs. City’s Economic Development Director John Sweatman noted that supporting this initiative through tax incentives was a straightforward decision, reflecting the kind of sustainable development they encourage in Opelika.
The distillery is scheduled to be completed by January 1, 2027. Gamble, originally from Tallapoosa County and an alumnus of Auburn University, previously founded an e-commerce agency focused on marketing for businesses. The Brewzle brand took off during the COVID-19 pandemic, transforming from a personal TikTok account with 50,000 followers to a diverse community of whiskey aficionados across multiple platforms.
Gamble envisions Oak Bowery not just as a distillery but also as a central hub where the Brewzle community can gather and share their love for whiskey responsibly.
Impact of Global Tariffs: How America’s Wine Industry is Facing a Tough Battle Against Canada’s Retaliation
Canada’s recent boycott of American-made wine, in response to tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, has severely impacted the U.S. wine industry. Robert Koch, president and CEO of the California Wine Institute, emphasized that Canada is crucial for U.S. wine exports, accounting for over $1.1 billion in annual sales.
The boycott, which started in Ontario and spread across all provinces, involved removing American wines from shelves and restaurants. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew humorously criticized Trump’s executive order through a social media video, declaring the order to pull American products from the market a "wonderful" initiative.
Mike Kaiser of Wine America remarked that the wine industry feels caught in the crossfire of a trade dispute and fears the psychological effects of the tariffs will have a long-lasting impact on consumer behavior. Even a complete reversal of the tariffs might not alleviate the damage, leading to concerns over achieving previous sales levels.
Before the tariffs, the U.S. wine business was already grappling with challenges such as a decline in wine consumption post-COVID-19 and increased competition from alternative alcoholic beverages like seltzers. Seasonal visitors to wineries and rising inflation have further complicated the economic landscape, making it cost-prohibitive for many to enjoy wine.
Napa Valley winery CEO Christi Coors Ficeli noted that inflation has greatly increased operational costs, forcing many wineries to raise prices, which deters potential visitors. Additionally, the tariffs have escalated costs of materials essential for winemaking, such as bottles and barrels, with some barrel suppliers predicting price increases of up to 20%.
Scott Osborn, owner of Fox Run Vineyards in New York, reported a significant drop in Canadian sales, which he attributes to the tariffs. He expressed concern over the broader implications these tariffs could have on tourism and European interest in American wines.
Kaiser advocates for targeted tariff policies to prevent industries like wine from suffering collateral damage in broader trade disputes. He urges the administration to engage in discussions with wine representatives to address the ongoing challenges.
As the conflict continues, the prospect of recovery for the U.S. wine industry appears increasingly grim, with the ramifications of policies still unfolding.
Metallica Takes Over Syracuse: Exclusive Pop-Up Shop, Whiskey Event, and More!
It’s officially Metallica week in Syracuse, as the legendary metal band is set to perform at the JMA Wireless Dome on Saturday, April 19. With over 46,000 tickets already sold, the concert is shaping up to be one of the largest events ever held at this venue, which was formerly known as the Carrier Dome. A limited number of tickets, including newly released options, can be found on platforms like Ticketmaster, StubHub, and Vivid Seats.
Whether or not fans attend the concert, numerous activities are planned around Syracuse for Metallica enthusiasts. On Friday, April 18, the band’s new documentary, “Metallica Saved My Life,” will have its premiere at Regal Destiny USA with two showings at 6:30 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. While the first screening is sold out, some seats remain for the second showing.
Additionally, a Metallica pop-up shop will open on Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Westcott Theater, offering exclusive merchandise such as concert posters, event tees, a skateboard, and a special orange-and-blue splatter vinyl pressing of their latest album, “72 Seasons.” Fans can also participate in a contest for a chance to win prizes, including “Snake Pit” passes for the concert.
In conjunction with the festivities, master distiller Rob Dietrich will host a meet-and-greet at the TisMart Cigar Shop and Lounge on Friday from 4 to 8 p.m., celebrating the band’s Blackened American Whiskey.
Moreover, the “Syracuse Takeover” event includes blood drives in partnership with the American Red Cross on Thursday and Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., where donors will receive a free Metallica shirt. An All Within My Hands volunteer opportunity is also scheduled for Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Food Bank of Central New York.
This concert will mark Metallica’s first in Syracuse in nearly three decades and their first performance at the JMA Dome, making it a significant stop on their M72 world tour. The band, featuring members James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Robert Trujillo, and Kirk Hammett, is renowned for its substantial impact on the heavy metal genre and its extensive catalog, which includes iconic songs such as “Enter Sandman,” “Nothing Else Matters,” and “Master of Puppets.”
2025 Mother’s Day Gift Guide: Top Liqueurs for Unforgettable Cocktails
Toast to Mother’s Day with delightful cocktails featuring liqueurs that capture the spirit of spring. These refreshing drinks are easy to prepare, low in alcohol, and perfect for any gathering during this special celebration.
Juliette Liqueur
Originating from southwest France, Juliette Liqueur is an artisanal peach-flavored liqueur made from heirloom peaches harvested specifically in July. The Juliette Signature Cocktail combines one ounce of this liqueur with five ounces of Brut Champagne for a rosy glow.
St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur
This elegant French liqueur, made from fresh elderflowers, offers a delicate floral flavor. The St-Germain Spritz incorporates 1.5 ounces of St-Germain, two ounces of Prosecco, and two ounces of soda water, garnished with a twist of lemon peel for a refreshing finish.
Gabriel Boudier Creme de Cassis
Produced in Dijon, France, this blackcurrant liqueur adds a sweet berry flavor and a stunning color to drinks. A classic Kir Royale mixes it with Champagne, or you can use Prosecco or Cava for a more budget-friendly option.
Italicus Calabrian Liqueur
Dubbed "The Drink of Kings," Italicus is a clear, complex bergamot liqueur. An Italicus Spritz can be enjoyed by mixing one part Italicus with two parts Prosecco, garnished with green olives.
Savoia Americano Rosso
Crafted in Turin, Italy, Savoia Americano offers a bittersweet profile with a complex herbal character. The Savoia Spritz consists of equal parts Savoia and dry Prosecco, garnished with grapes for a refreshing touch.
Disaronno Originale
Celebrating its 500th anniversary, Disaronno is a sweet almond amaretto liqueur known for its smooth taste. The Disaronno Fizz combines 1.5 ounces of Disaronno with sparkling water and a squeeze of lemon, served over ice.
Pallini Limoncello
Hailing from Amalfi, Pallini Limoncello is made from hand-picked lemons. The Pallini Spritz combines two parts Limoncello with three parts Prosecco and sparkling water, garnished with an orange or lemon slice.
Alternatives for Stronger Cocktails
For moms preferring something with a bit more punch, options include G.D. Vajra Barolo Chinato, an aromatic wine infused with spices, or Pio Cesare Vermouth, known for its aromatic and herbaceous qualities.
With these unique liqueurs and cocktail recipes, make this Mother’s Day a memorable occasion for the special moms in your life. Cheers!
Delicious Easter Delight: Ham with Root Beer, Rum, and Raisin Glaze Recipe
Easter is just around the corner, and if you’re still searching for the perfect dish for your Sunday brunch, look no further. Andrew Brow from the Wyckoff Country Club has an exquisite recipe for a ham glazed with root beer, rum, and raisins. This unique combination promises to deliver a rich flavor and elevate your festive gathering.
For further details on the recipe, you can check out the original post here.
Gervasi Spirits Triumphs with 9 Medals at the 2025 U.S. Open Whiskey and Spirits Championships
CANTON, Ohio — Gervasi Spirits has made a remarkable mark at the 2025 U.S. Open Whiskey and Spirits Championships, receiving two prestigious awards. The Canton distillery was honored as the Grand National Champion in the spirits division and secured the runner-up spot in the Whiskey Championship, marking a historic achievement as the first distillery ever to be recognized on both podiums in the competition’s history.
The competitive event drew participants from across the country, and Gervasi’s portfolio was celebrated with a total of nine medals. The medal breakdown is as follows:
- Whiskey Division: 2 Gold, 2 Silver, 1 Bronze
- Spirits Division: 2 Gold, 1 Silver, 1 Bronze
Among the standout entries, Gervasi’s Wine Barrel Bourbon, Small Batch Gin, and Spiced Rum each earned Gold medals. Additionally, Rum Barrel Bourbon, Maple Cask Bourbon, and Giava (a coffee spirit) received Silver medals, while Honey Heat Whiskey and Winter White Whiskey took home Bronze honors.
“This recognition is a testament to the passion, precision, and innovation of our Head Distiller Shae Pridemore and Assistant Distiller Michael Phillips,” said Scott Swaldo, CEO of Gervasi Vineyard and Gervasi Spirits. “To be recognized among the nation’s finest in both whiskey and spirits is an incredible honor—and it reflects our deep commitment to crafting exceptional, world-class products right here in Ohio.”
Other Ohio distilleries also gained recognition at the event:
2025 U.S. Open Whiskey Championship Winners:
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Small Batch Bourbon 4-10 Years Over 100 proof:
- GOLD – Karrikin Spirits – Orion’s Reserve
- SILVER – Northern Row Brewery & Distillery – Northern Liberties Whiskey Co.
-
Single Barrel Whiskey:
- GOLD – Knox Joseph Distillery – Knox Joseph Straight Bourbon Whiskey
-
Rye Whiskey – Under 100 Proof:
- SILVER – Karrikin Spirit – Rye Whiskey
-
Craft Whiskey:
- BRONZE – Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery – Rubicon Creek Myth
-
Anything Goes:
- GOLD – Iron Vault Distillery – FrankenBlend
2025 U.S. Open Spirits Championship Winners:
-
Traditional Moonshine:
- GOLD – Pap’s Hilltop Distillery – Copperas Mountain Corn
- SILVER – Flatrock Distilling Company – Flatrock Sweet Corn Moonshine
-
Flavored Moonshine:
- GOLD – Pap’s Hilltop Distillery – Caramel Apple Pie Moonshine
-
Barrel-Aged Gin:
- BRONZE – Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery – Harpers Armagnac Gin
-
Specialty Spirits:
- GOLD – Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery – Gypsy Queen
A complete list of winners is available here.
Gervasi Spirits Shines at 2025 U.S. Open Whiskey and Spirits Championships with 9 Medals
CANTON, Ohio — Gervasi Spirits has achieved remarkable success at the 2025 U.S. Open Whiskey and Spirits Championships, securing two prestigious awards: the Grand National Champion in the spirits division and the runner-up in the highly competitive Whiskey Championship. This historic achievement makes Gervasi the first distillery ever to reach the podium in both categories.
The competition drew distilleries from across the country, and Gervasi stood out by earning a total of nine medals, broken down as follows:
- Whiskey Division: 2 Gold, 2 Silver, 1 Bronze
- Spirits Division: 2 Gold, 1 Silver, 1 Bronze
Among the standout entries were Gervasi’s Wine Barrel Bourbon, Small Batch Gin, and Spiced Rum, each winning Gold. Additionally, Rum Barrel Bourbon, Maple Cask Bourbon, and Giava (a coffee spirit) received Silver awards, while Honey Heat Whiskey and Winter White Whiskey were awarded Bronze.
“This recognition is a testament to the passion, precision, and innovation of our Head Distiller Shae Pridemore and Assistant Distiller Michael Phillips,” commented Scott Swaldo, CEO of Gervasi Vineyard and Gervasi Spirits. “To be recognized among the nation’s finest in both whiskey and spirits is an incredible honor—and it reflects our deep commitment to crafting exceptional, world-class products right here in Ohio.”
Other local winners in the competition included:
2025 U.S. Open Whiskey Championship Medal Results
-
Small Batch Bourbon 4-10 Years Over 100 proof
- GOLD – Karrikin Spirits – Orion’s Reserve
- SILVER – Northern Row Brewery & Distillery – Northern Liberties Whiskey Co.
-
Single Barrel Whiskey
- GOLD – Knox Joseph Distillery – Knox Joseph Straight Bourbon Whiskey
-
Rye Whiskey – Under 100 Proof
- SILVER – Karrikin Spirits – Rye Whiskey
-
Craft Whiskey
- BRONZE – Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery – Rubicon Creek Myth
-
Anything Goes
- GOLD – Iron Vault Distillery – FrankenBlend
2025 U.S. Open Spirits Championship
-
Traditional Moonshine
- GOLD – Pap’s Hilltop Distillery – Copperas Mountain Corn
- SILVER – Flatrock Distilling Company – Flatrock Sweet Corn Moonshine
-
Flavored Moonshine
- GOLD – Pap’s Hilltop Distillery – Caramel Apple Pie Moonshine
-
Barrel-Aged Gin
- BRONZE – Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery – Harpers Armagnac Gin
-
Specialty Spirits
- GOLD – Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery – Gypsy Queen
-
Other Spirits
- BRONZE – Agave – Karrikin Spirits – Blaze
Delightful Liqueurs to Elevate Your Mother’s Day Cocktail Experience
Crafting the perfect cocktail for Mother’s Day can elevate the occasion, making it festive and memorable. Here are some delightful liqueurs that can transform your celebrations into something extraordinary, offering fresh and vibrant drinks that are both low in alcohol and easy to enjoy.
Juliette Liqueur
Produced in small batches in southwest France using heirloom peaches harvested in July, Juliette Liqueur adds a touch of sweetness to cocktails. The Juliette Signature Cocktail, combining one ounce of this liqueur with five ounces of Brut Champagne, creates a beautiful rose-colored drink.
St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur
This French liqueur, made with handpicked elderflowers, offers a floral aroma and exquisite taste. The St-Germain Spritz, combining 1-½ ounces of St-Germain with two ounces of Prosecco and soda water, garnished with lemon peel, is both refreshing and elegant.
Gabriel Boudier Creme de Cassis
Hailing from Dijon, France, this blackcurrant liqueur lends a rich berry flavor to cocktails. The Kir Royale mixes this liqueur with champagne, while a still wine variant is simply called a Kir.
Italicus
Reviving the traditional Rosolio category, Italicus is a clear bergamot liqueur with complex citrus notes. The Italicus Spritz, made with one part Italicus and two parts Prosecco, garnished with green olives, is a refreshing choice.
SAVOIA Americano Rosso
Crafted in Turin, this bittersweet liqueur infuses cocktails with a rich flavor. The Savoia Spritz, made with equal parts of Savoia Americano Rosso and dry Prosecco, offers a vibrant ruby red hue.
Disaronno Originale
This sweet amaretto liqueur celebrates its 500th anniversary and is cherished globally. The Disaronno Fizz, combining 1.5 ounces of Disaronno with five ounces of sparkling water and fresh lemon juice, makes for a delightful drink.
Disaronno Velvet
For those who enjoy a smoother taste, Disaronno Velvet combines well with coconut water in the Disaronno Velvet Batida, delivering a refreshing snow-white cocktail perfect for warm weather.
Pallini Limoncello
Crafted from hand-picked Amalfi lemons, this liqueur is both natural and refreshing. The Pallini Spritz combines two parts Limoncello with three parts Prosecco and a splash of sparkling water for a bright lemon-yellow drink.
Alternatives for Stronger Tastes
For mothers who prefer bold flavors, consider:
- G.D. Vajra Barolo Chinato, an aromatized wine perfect for sipping.
- Pio Cesare Vermouth, an aromatic wine from Piedmont, Italy, ideal for sipping with lemon zest.
These liqueurs and cocktail recipes create a delightful way to toast your special day together, ensuring that every sip is as memorable as the moments shared.
Southern Colorado Wine Makes Historic Debut at Yellowstone National Park
Wine from Southern Colorado is now featured at Yellowstone National Park, marking a significant achievement for the state’s wine industry.
The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey, launched by Catholic monks in Cañon City over two decades ago and now owned by Larry Oddo, has created history by being the first Colorado winemaker to expand its reach nationally in a wholesale capacity. Oddo expressed the magnitude of this accomplishment as it allows for recognition beyond state lines, with their wines being included in menus at eight lodges and restaurants across Yellowstone, including the iconic Old Faithful Inn. The selected offerings include a Merlot, Syrah, and a unique red blend known as The Theurgist, which leveraged the expertise of a winery sales consultant for placement.
Among these, the 2022 Merlot features grapes from Palisade on Colorado’s Western Slope and presents a mid to full-bodied profile with rich flavors of baked cherry and plum, ideally complementing red meats and cheeses. The 2020 Petite Syrah, sourced from Washington’s Columbia Valley, is described by Oddo as embodying the character of a French Rhone Valley wine, boasting big fruit flavors balanced with oak and spice, ideally suited for wild game meats.
The Theurgist, part of the winery’s “As Above So Below” collection, has a light, fruit-driven style, reminiscent of Chianti or Pinot Noir, blending various grape varieties, including Petite Pearl, cultivated to withstand challenges posed by climate change.
Although only a small percentage of grapes used at the winery are locally sourced due to Southern Colorado’s cooler climate, Oddo notes that some brave local grape growers are experimenting with cultivation along the Arkansas River, producing wines like the Wild Canyon Harvest made from blends of different grape types.
The expansion into Yellowstone comes as a response to challenges faced in the wine market, particularly due to a recent state law allowing liquor sales that have shifted significant market share towards grocery stores and affected independent liquor shops. Oddo anticipates that this park sale could provide crucial support for their winery amid changing consumer preferences.
The winery is expected to produce around 6,000 cases this year, a drop from the 11,000 cases in past years, impacted by the broader market fluctuations and decreased tourism. Through creating an inviting environment, Oddo aims to ensure all patrons, regardless of their wine knowledge, can find something enjoyable to take home.
For more information, visit The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey.
Over 70 Arrested Amidst Violence in Athens as Molotov Cocktails Target Police
During a weekend of unrest in Athens, police arrested over 70 individuals as violent clashes erupted in the Exarchia neighborhood. The riots began following a music performance in a nearby park, escalating into widespread chaos as protesters hurled Molotov cocktails, stones, and fireworks at police, igniting vehicles in the area.
Local authorities reported that 72 people were detained, with one officer sustaining injuries during the confrontations. Eyewitness accounts indicated that the disturbances intensified late Saturday night, specifically around the junction of Kallidromiou and E. Benaki streets. In response to the aggression, police employed chemical agents to disperse the crowd.
The turmoil unfolded just days after a bomb exploded near the offices of Hellenic Train, Greece’s primary railway operator. Fortunately, the explosion caused limited damage and resulted in no injuries, as the attackers had notified two media outlets shortly before the detonation.
This unrest coincides with the second anniversary of a devastating railway disaster in which 57 people lost their lives when a freight and passenger train were mistakenly placed on the same track. The incident highlighted significant flaws in Greece’s railway safety system, prompting protests from victims’ relatives against the current government.
In recent weeks, numerous demonstrations have taken place across Greece, with citizens rallying for higher wages amid soaring living costs. Popular demand for better financial support continues, as many households struggle to manage increasing expenses for food, housing, and utilities, despite the government’s cumulative 35% increase in the minimum wage since 2019.