A local rum producer has initiated legal action against another company for trademark infringement, following the latter’s decision to market rum under a name that closely resembles its own.

Island Saint LLC, operating as Bellows International, has been offering rum under the trademark “Magens Bay Rum” since late 2005, as stated in the complaint submitted on Thursday to the V.I. District Court. This branding stems from an exclusive agreement with Magens Bay Authority to manufacture rum using the Magens Bay name.

Labels from Bellows International’s Magens Bay Rum

Since the launch of its sales in October 2005, the volume has impressively increased from 79 cases to 1,158 cases by 2003. Over the years, Bellows has sold more than 122,000 bottles of Magens Bay Rum, resulting in revenue that surpasses $458,000.

Around May 2024, the complaint alleges that Cardow Inc., a company recognized for its jewelry, officially registered the trade name “Magens Bay Rum” with the Government of the Virgin Islands and began marketing products under this name.

The complaint claims that Cardow’s product “uses identical imitations of Bellows’ MAGENS BAY RUM mark in a manner that is likely to cause consumer confusion and deceive the public.” Bellows contends that Cardow’s actions are causing “irreparable” damage to its brand. One significant impact of Cardow’s activities, as stated in the complaint, is that the Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs issued a cease and desist letter to Bellows due to Cardow’s registration of the trade name.

The cease and desist order instructed Bellows to stop selling its rum, which had been in the market for nearly two decades, “despite Bellows having properly registered its label with DLCA” as recently as 2016 when they updated the labels for both the white and gold rum variants.

To complicate the situation, Bellows claims that Cardow has started to sell bottles of a competing product “to the very same retail and restaurant establishments where Bellows had been distributing its brand for the previous 19 years.”

The purported “imposter” bottles, as stated in the complaint, are being sold by Cardow Inc.

Bellows is requesting that the court recognize its “clear entitlement to a common law trademark,” citing its “exclusive and extensive use of the mark in the jurisdiction.” The company also seeks a ruling that federal trademark infringement has occurred, along with common law trademark infringement due to Cardow’s use of the name Magens Bay Rum. They are asking for both a preliminary and permanent injunction to stop Cardow from using the mark. Additionally, Bellows is seeking damages for unfair competition and for Cardow’s unfair business practices.

As of the time of this report, Cardow had not provided a response to the complaint.

The title has been awarded to a brand that is already recognized in the industry.

A close-up of a sommelier savoring whiskey in a cellar setting.

Stranahan’s Whiskey, famous for producing American single malt right from Denver, has achieved a significant milestone at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition by claiming the title of “Best in Class” in the American Single Malt category. This recognition has brought Stranahan’s to the forefront in a competitive whiskey landscape.

This award is considered one of the highest honors within this competition, which is esteemed as one of the most significant events in the spirits industry.

Stranahan’s Single Malt Whiskey

Established in 2004, Stranahan’s was among the pioneering distilleries in the United States to concentrate on American single malt—a style traditionally linked to Scotch whisky. However, Stranahan’s does not seek to replicate Scotch. Instead, they have found a unique place in the market by producing a distinctly American spirit. Their whiskey is crafted from 100% malted barley, distilled in small batches, and matured in new charred American oak barrels.

The decision to use new oak barrels is crucial to Stranahan’s signature taste. While Scotch is typically aged in previously used barrels, Stranahan’s imparts a robust and bold character to its whiskey, featuring flavors such as caramel, oak, and spice. Additionally, the exceptional climate of the Rocky Mountains—with its high altitudes and fluctuating temperatures—plays a significant role in the aging process, resulting in a whiskey that stands out from traditional single malts.

The distinguished flavor profile of Stranahan’s captured the attention of judges at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Their American single malt exhibits a rich interplay of sweetness and warmth, highlighted by notes of toasted oak, dark fruit, and a hint of spice. This whiskey is both bold and accessible, appealing to both experienced whiskey enthusiasts and newcomers to the category.

Achieving the title of “Best in Class” at this prestigious competition is certainly an impressive accomplishment. The San Francisco World Spirits Competition is renowned for its stringent evaluation process, which features a panel of industry experts.

The brand’s Original whiskey secured a Gold medal at the previous year’s San Francisco World Spirits Competition and garnered a Double Gold in 2021. In addition, it has received accolades at the SIP Awards, New York International Spirits Competition, LA Spirits Awards, and several others.

Stranahan’s success serves as a significant boost for American single malt whiskey overall. This category has been building momentum in recent years, as an increasing number of U.S. distilleries delve into the possibilities offered by barley-based whiskey. While bourbon and rye continue to dominate the American whiskey landscape, single malt is gradually establishing its own foothold. Other notable brands in this segment include Westland, Balcones, and Virginia Distillery Company.

For numerous whiskey enthusiasts, Stranahan’s recent accolade serves as an inspiration to delve into the expansive realm of American single malt. This style merges age-old methods with innovative American craftsmanship, resulting in a spirit that feels both familiar and intriguingly distinct.

Apart from the Original American Single Malt, the brand features several distinctive offerings: For those in search of a unique experience, the Sherry Cask edition matures their single malt in Oloroso sherry barrels, infusing it with a delightful complexity of dried fruit and nutty undertones.

Additionally, Stranahan’s presents the Blue Peak, a whiskey inspired by mountainous terrains, which is aged using a Solera system. This process imparts a smooth and intricate profile, complemented by notes of vanilla and roasted nuts. For those in pursuit of something exceptionally rare, their Snowflake release is an annual limited-edition selection that undergoes aging in an assortment of casks—from rum to port—ensuring that each batch is a unique discovery.

Stranahan’s wasn’t the sole whiskey label to receive a Best in Class accolade at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits and Ready to Drink Competitions. Other distinguished winners included King’s Family Distillery, honored for Best American Blended Whiskey, Starboards for Best Australian Single Malt Whiskey, and Eau Claire Distillery for Best Canadian Whiskey.

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This list features some of the finest clear spirits available, ranging from time-honored imported vodkas to American-made varieties emerging from small distilleries. If martinis are your drink of choice, you’ll discover a selection of vodkas here deemed excellent for this classic cocktail. For those who prefer convenience, a range of flavored options from various brands are included as well. Be sure to share your favorite by casting your vote.

Our nominees are curated through an editorial process with input from a panel of travel specialists. The final selection is made by the editors at Newsweek. Readers can cast their votes once per category, daily. For additional information, check out our terms and conditions. For any inquiries, please visit our FAQs or reach out to us at readerschoice@newsweek.com.

Aly Walansky frequently contributes to discussions about food trends and news. With over twenty years of experience as a food journalist, she has covered a wide range of topics, from budget-friendly shopping to recipes and culinary travel, for prominent publications such as Food Network, Southern Living, Food & Wine, Travel & Leisure, The Kitchn, and others. In recognition of her work, she was honored as one of the top ten journalists in 2023 and one of the top ten freelance journalists in 2024, along with holding the title of #1 food journalist in 2022 by Muck Rack. You can follow her at alywalansky.substack.com.

Gavin Booth from coupleinthekitchen.com focuses on recipe creation, grilling techniques, culinary travel, and romantic getaway destinations. He boasts significant travel experience, having explored all 50 U.S. states and more than 40 countries. Gavin works as a full-time recipe developer, photographer, videographer, and writer.

With over two decades of experience in journalism and content creation, Gretchen Pahia is a dedicated wife and mother to two teenage sons. Her work has appeared in numerous publications, establishing her as a respected writer on a diverse array of subjects including travel, dining, lifestyle, family, and entertainment. You can stay updated with her work on Instagram @gpahia.

Contributors to Newsweek come from diverse backgrounds, offering their insights and expertise across various fields.

Discover a new favorite whiskey with this collection of rich caramel spirits. If you hold a deep allegiance to your Emerald Isle heritage, we’ve curated Irish and Irish-inspired selections to help you stay true to your roots. For those captivated by the resurgence of Japanese whiskey, you’ll find numerous award-winning options on the list. Additionally, we’ve included some innovative flavors, such as cherry-infused and kettle-corn, perfect for those who dare to try a fresh twist on this timeless beverage.

Our selections are guided by editorial insight with input from a panel of travel experts. The final compilation is determined by Newsweek’s editorial team. Readers have the opportunity to vote once per category each day. For further information, please review our terms and conditions. If you have any inquiries, consult our FAQs or reach out to us at readerschoice@newsweek.com.

Amy Piper is a freelance travel writer, blogger, photographer, and author with a focus on luxury and multigenerational travel. Hailing from Michigan, she approaches her journeys through the perspective of a food enthusiast, having explored 45 states and 41 countries globally. From being pursued by bomb-sniffing dogs in Bogotá to facing travel delays in Buenos Aires due to visa issues, Amy has endless thrilling stories to share with her readers and fellow travel aficionados. Discover more at followthepiper.com.

Ryan Slough is a content creator, freelance travel writer, photographer, and co-owner of Wanderers Compass Travel Blog. He aims to inspire wanderlust in aspiring travelers, encouraging them to pursue genuine, independent, and transformative adventures. With a keen interest in whiskey, he completed a certification course in Edinburgh, enhancing his knowledge and appreciation for the craft. Ryan is also a dedicated father, a Master Sergeant in the Army Reserves, and a full-time college student. He belongs to the International Travel Writers Alliance (ITWA), the International Food, Wine, and Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), and the North American Travel Journalists Association (NATJA).

Contributors to Newsweek come from diverse backgrounds, bringing a wealth of knowledge across numerous subjects.

Few drink orders are as widespread as the refreshing and zesty vodka cranberry. This seemingly simple yet intricate blend of flavors balances the sharpness of cold vodka with the tangy sweetness of cranberry juice, creating a delightful mixed drink that is gentle on the palate. Often topped with a splash of lime for an added citrus kick, many might refer to it as the best drink mixer.

This cocktail has been around for almost a century, with origins tracing back to the early 1940s. Interestingly, unlike certain classic cocktails like the Sidecar or the Tom Collins, its appeal has never diminished. In fact, vodka cranberry drinks have only increased in popularity over time, evolving into various names and styles. But what is the fascinating story behind this iconic beverage? Its rich history reaches back further than one might assume.

For a deeper dive: 13 Types Of Beer Glasses And When To Use Them

Since 1930, Ocean Spray has dominated the cranberry juice market. Established by a collective of cranberry growers in Massachusetts, their mission was to create more products derived from cranberries. This initiative led to the creation of not only cranberry juice but also canned cranberry sauce, dried cranberries, and much more. These advancements initiated a surge in the cranberry-related food and beverage sector.

As reported by Chilled Magazine, the vodka cranberry was originally referred to as the “Red Devil” cocktail in an Ocean Spray newsletter from 1945. This was the first instance when this relatively new juice was marketed as a drink mixer. Despite the term “red” carrying a negative stigma during the era of McCarthyism, the name didn’t quite catch on. However, the appeal of this delightful mix remained undeniable, leading to a rebranding effort.

By the 1950s, vodka cranberries, commonly known as “Cape Codders” at the time, were gaining traction on the East Coast. Thanks to increased advertising by Ocean Spray, the vodka cranberry began to spread across the nation, ultimately establishing itself as a quintessential beverage.

Over the years, the vodka cranberry has evolved through various adaptations. The Sea Breeze incorporates a hint of grapefruit juice, whereas the Madras includes orange juice. A popular method to reduce sweetness is to add a splash of soda, a variation known as the Rose Kennedy in certain regions. With the emergence of premium cocktail bars, expectations for a “good drink” have escalated significantly since the vodka cranberry’s beginnings. Many bars see this as an opportunity to enhance this beloved classic. Though the origins of the vodka cranberry are rich, it remains a contemporary favorite as relevant today as it was at its creation. Keep its fascinating history in mind the next time you place your order.

For more details, check out the original article on Chowhound.