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.

One Community. Many Voices. Create your free account today to express your thoughts.

Our community is dedicated to bringing people together through open and meaningful discussions. We encourage our readers to voice their opinions and share ideas in a welcoming environment.

To ensure a positive experience for everyone, please adhere to the posting guidelines outlined in our site’s Terms of Service. Below is a summary of some key rules. In essence, please keep the conversation civil.

Your contribution may be declined if it is found to contain:

User accounts will be suspended if we observe or suspect that users are participating in:

So, what does it take to become a power user?

We appreciate your attention to our community guidelines. Please review the complete set of posting rules available in our site’s Terms of Service.

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.

Attendees of Ace of Spades concerts frequently visit the nearby bars in the R Street Corridor for drinks before or after their shows. Now, the venue is eager to join in on the fun.

Good Luck Lounge is the new cocktail lounge adjoining Ace of Spades, opened on October 4th at 1421 R St. This second-floor bar is accessible to the public but offers a distinct advantage for those holding tickets to the evening performance: immediate access to the pit without needing to wait outside.

The latest addition to Sacramento’s bar scene boasts emerald green walls, cerulean velvet stools, and an array of gambling-themed decor, featuring faux dice and a mural reminiscent of face cards, crafted from thousands of glimmering pennies. Its cocktail offerings pay tribute to the Gold Rush saloons and Jerry Thomas, revered as “the father of American mixology” in the 1850s.

Thomas is renowned for creating classic cocktails like the Martinez (considered the predecessor of the martini, made with sweet vermouth), which is included on the menu alongside time-honored beverages such as Corpse Revivers. The bar’s signature cocktail is a contemporary twist known as a Gold Rush, a whiskey sour variation featuring honey syrup in place of simple syrup, and adorned with honeycomb.

The cocktails at Good Luck Lounge were expertly crafted by Sean Kenyon, a talented mixologist affiliated with Live Nation, the parent company of Ace of Spades. Kenyon is also the co-founder of Williams & Graham in Denver, which was recognized as one of the World’s 50 Best Bars in 2015. Additionally, he has established a more laid-back bar, Occidental, noted as one of Esquire’s top 18 bars in the U.S. in 2016, as well as the two-story whiskey venue American Bonded.

Currently, Kenyon is focused on developing bar programs for Live Nation, each one infused with a sense of local identity, as seen in Good Luck Lounge.

“Our cocktails are modern interpretations of classics, with some recipes tracing back to the Gold Rush cocktail era,” Kenyon remarked. “We drew significant inspiration from our local surroundings in Sacramento, aiming to incorporate a touch of the city into our offerings.”

Sacramento’s music landscape features everything from small venues to the expansive Golden 1 Center, leaving a gap in the middle. With a capacity of 1,000, Ace of Spades falls on the smaller side for a mid-tier venue, yet it has continued to flourish, partly due to its position as one of the few venues that can accommodate moderately popular performers. It’s noteworthy that Channel 24, a concert hall currently under construction at 24th and R streets, is expected to boast a capacity of 2,150 when it opens early next year.

There’s a compelling need for Ace of Spades to carve out a unique identity. The Good Luck Lounge welcomes visitors from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and from 5 p.m. to midnight on Thursdays, along with all other evenings when Ace of Spades features a performance.

I wrapped up one of Sacramento’s last scorching 100-degree days (hopefully) by visiting Sumer Nights, an Iraqi dining establishment by Abbas Allaftah located in Arden Arcade. Having opened its doors last June in a spacious venue at Country Club Plaza, it took over from a previous Cajun seafood restaurant, with remnants of nautical ropes and decor still visible on the wood-paneled walls.

<p/I have a pretty hearty appetite, which has enabled me to tackle a local fast food joint’s 10×10 smashburger earlier this year, and even to secure second place out of 12 competitors in a Jimboy’s Tacos-eating contest last month.

So let me assure you: the entrees at Sumer Nights are generously portioned, perfect for sharing among at least two diners. Each dish is accompanied by a rich yellow lentil soup, a selection of four sides including options like tabbouleh or baba ghanoush, along with khubz, a delicious round flatbread that overflows from the serving basket.

Moving on to the entrees, the dolma plate ($35) is anything but a simple starter. It features substantial grape leaf wraps filled with rice and ground lamb, simmered in a rich tomato broth, and accompanied by lamb ribs, zesty pickled vegetables, pomegranate molasses, along with additional rice served on khubz.

The Quzi ($35), recognized as one of Iraq’s signature dishes, is similarly impressive. With two succulent lamb legs perched atop a delicate combination of rice, vermicelli, raisins, and almonds, the meat is so tender that it easily separates from the bone with just the slightest touch. Drenched in saffron for a vivid yellow hue but retaining a perfect pink center, it is garnished with cumin and paired with a comforting tomato-white bean soup known as fasolia.

Beyond the extensive kebab and shawarma selections, smaller dishes are available—think falafel wraps, chicken burgers, and lamb tikka sandwiches. Even starters like shwandaria ($7), featuring julienned pickled beets garnished with parsley, provide ample servings. Thankfully, leftovers taste just as delightful the following day, as do most main dishes when warmed up again.

Location: 2316 Watt Ave., Sacramento

Operating Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. from Sunday to Thursday, 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday.

Contact Number: 916-750-5088

Official Website: sumer-nights.com

Beverage Selection: Offering a variety of tea and sodas.

Vegetarian options: Falafel dishes or wraps, along with several appetizers

Noise level: Tranquil during weekdays, more energetic on weekend evenings

Outdoor seating: A patio next to the parking lot, enhanced with synthetic turf and palm trees

• Lucky’s Drive-In commenced operations on October 3 at 2565 Franklin Blvd., taking over the Curtis Park location that once housed the Hideaway Bar & Grill. This nostalgic fast food spot has been offering burgers, shakes, fries, and more since 2015 at a sister establishment located near Tacoma, Washington.

▪ Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream has launched its sixth location in the capital region on Tuesday, situated at 8055 Madison Ave. in the southeastern area of Citrus Heights. Established in 1945, this Ohio-based chain now serves frozen desserts at approximately 125 sites across 12 states, with other parlors located in North Natomas, Folsom, Roseville, Elk Grove, and Rancho Cordova.

▪ Shorebirds Brewing Co., the only brewery in Sacramento County focused on hard kombucha production, announced its closure via social media last Thursday. The owners, Randall Echevarria and Monte Hudock, will throw a farewell party on October 19 at 11327 Trade Center Drive, Suite 355, located in Rancho Cordova’s Barrel District, and are hoping to partner with another local brewery to continue brewing their kombuchas.