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Arooj Aftab Unveils Her Nostalgic New Single, ‘Whiskey’
The artist’s new album will arrive on May 31 via Verve Records.
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Arooj Aftab has shared “Whiskey,” the second single from her forthcoming album, Night Reign, out May 31 on Verve Records.
Night Reign is the continuation of Aftab’s highly-praised initial label album, Vulture Prince. To celebrate the release of the single, Aftab is currently spotlighted on Apple Music’s New Music Daily.
The track “Whiskey” is atmospheric, evoking a melancholic sense of intoxicated infatuation. The lyrics are sung in English by Aftab: “Your head gets heavy and rests on my shoulder ’cause you drink too much whiskey when you’re with me.”
The track’s freeform structure, imbued with elements of jazz and tinges of 90s R&B, fully demonstrate Aftab’s musical versatility. Collaborations on “Whiskey” include renowned artists such as Kaki King and Gyan Riley on guitars, Maeve Gilchrist on the harp, Linda May Han Oh on the bass, and Jamey Haddad on percussion. In addition to this stellar lineup, TimaLikesMusic provides retro Juno keyboard runs and a dreamlike electric piano solo. The music video for the track can be viewed below.
Aftab characterizes “Whiskey” as a song about a night out with a beloved person that turns out unexpectedly. The evening has become slightly too spirited due to excess drinking. Now, she finds herself tired and needing to get both of them home. Nevertheless, the entire experience – and the interaction – is still charming.
Last month, the debut single and music video of the album “Raat Ki Rani” won the accolades from popular platforms such as NPR , Rolling Stone , and The New York Times . This piece was directed by the renowned actress Tessa Thompson.
Aftab showcases the theme of the night in her new nine-song collection. The narrative is completely her own; she explores the diverse, daring, and fascinating world that awakens after sunset.
Some nights are assigned to blossoming love, some to solitude and reflection, some to feeling irked at obligatory social gatherings — these are the stories narrated in the Night Reign .
Julia
May 7, 2024 at 11:37 pm
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Dealing with Unwanted Whiskey Bottles: A Woman’s Frustration in Russell Township
Russell Township police car.
RUSSELL TOWNSHIP. Ohio
Special attention: Fox Hollow Drive
After finding alcoholic beverage bottles in her front yard three different times, a woman called police at 8 a.m. April 23.
The incidents occurred overnight and involved mini-size bottles of Fireball whiskey.
In the first occurrence, the bottles were left standing up in a line. Subsequently, the bottles were thrown in a pile.
The yard is wooded. The complainant requested extra police patrols at night.
Suspicious: Larkspur Lane
Someone placed a deer stand on a man’s property sometime before police were called at 9:26 a.m. April 25.
The man left a note with his phone number on the stand advising that it was on his property.
Responding officers were shown the location of the stand. The property owner agreed to leave the stand with the note a little longer to see if it is removed.
Suspicious: Fairmount Road
While camping with students at the Laurel School’s Butler Campus at 10:31 p.m. April 26, a woman heard ATVs or some type of motorized vehicle on the property.
Officers responded, found the gate closed and did not locate any vehicles on the campus.
Traffic hazard: Hillbrook South
A woman complained at 11:20 a.m. April 26 that the road-closed signs are confusing and that her deliveries were canceled.
She requested that signs inform people that they can still come down the street.
The service department was notified of the complaint.
Traffic hazard: Chillicothe Road
A motorist reported a large rock in the road at 11:12 a.m. April 23. An officer responded and removed the rock.
Traffic hazard: Fairmount Road
Police and firefighters responded to a call shortly before 9 p.m. April 25 to remove a tree blocking the westbound lane.
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Beer Nut: Unveiling Answers in Our Occasionally Asked Questions Column
You’ll often see websites that offer FAQs (frequently asked questions) for readers to help streamline addressing queries that arise regularly.
Although I get a fair amount of correspondence with some repeated questions, (as well ones I get asked in person at brewpubs), I would not deign to designate any of them “frequent.” So let’s call them OAQs (occasionally asked questions) for the purposes of this week’s column.
When someone takes the time to write to me, I try to always reply. And I’ve noticed certain themes that have cropped up over the 20 years I’ve written this weekly missive. So today I’ve collected a few of them in the hopes of answering some questions that readers might have had, whether they have asked them or not. Let’s dig in:
Why haven’t you reviewed/mentioned/written about (Brewery X)? It’s great!
I certainly understand and appreciate readers’ passion for their latest discovery. And 15 years ago, I might have considered looking into a new venue if there was enough of a buzz about it. But even then, there is kind of an unwritten rule about immediately writing about a new business – at least until it gets its legs under it.
I actually did cover a brand-new brewery once. But it was before I started this column. I was covering the city of Greenfield when The People’s Pint opened up in 1996 and got my boss to let me cover it because a new brewery back then was notable. These days it seems like one opens up every few weeks.
I only have 52 columns a year and so covering every new brewery would be tough.
Why don’t you write negative reviews?
Well, first off, I don’t write reviews at all. I made it clear to my editors when I took this job that I didn’t want to “rate” beers or act like some critic. I wanted this column to be educational, fun, and interesting without resorting to giving out stars or thumbs-ups to beers.
I will sometimes describe elements of a beer and occasionally offer a critique of certain aspects, but I consider taste to be subjective. Just because I like something doesn’t mean you will, and vice-versa. That does not mean there are no bad beers, but again, with only 52 columns each year, I choose not to spend my precious column space on trashing any of them.
What’s the worst beer you’ve ever had?
I usually wouldn’t answer this because, as I just said above, I’m not in the business of trying to slag someone with my subjective opinion. But I have been asked this question a lot. And in this case, I think the target of my negativity can handle it, because 1) I’ve often sang the praises of the main beer made by the same brewery, and 2) it’s owned by a multinational company, so one little snub by me isn’t going to sting anyone that much.
Guinness Kaliber, a non-alcoholic beer, was an experience I didn’t particularly enjoy. Although I rarely leave a beer unfinished, this was one instance where I simply couldn’t. Despite being a non-alcoholic variant, it didn’t sit well with my palette. That said, Guinness has rectified this with their new offering, Guinness 0, which closely resembles their original formula. Cheers to the brand for making amends in the non-alcoholic segment.
Which beer do I enjoy the most?
Whenever faced with this query, my go-to response is usually, “The one you’re ready to offer.” However, adhering to my live-in-the-present approach, this implies I’m referring to a beer in the future. Applying that condition eliminates any beer from the past as well. Thus, the honest answer would likely be “the one I’m currently savoring.”
This was fun for me, so if you have any other questions, send them along to geolenker@yahoo.com and maybe down the road, I will answer some more. Cheers.
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High Noon Revamps the RTD Category: Introducing High Noon Vodka Iced Tea
The top selling hard seltzer brand* is unveiling its first-ever premium hard tea offering
MODESTO, Calif., May 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Spirit of Gallo’s
the #1 spirits brand by volume**, is launching
High Noon Vodka Iced Tea, made with real vodka, real iced tea, and no added sugar. Now available on shelves nationwide, High Noon’s new non-carbonated, gluten free hard teas are available in four essential summer flavors – Original, Peach, Lemon, and Raspberry – each at 90 calories and 4.5% ABV with an MSRP of $19.99 in 8-packs of 355mml cans.
“Hard Tea was one of consumers’ most frequent RTD category purchased in 2023***, which created an opportunity for High Noon to provide a premium alternative in a way only the brand can with real vodka and real iced tea,” said Britt West, Executive Vice President and General Manager at Gallo. “With this launch, we’ve taken a beloved classic and elevated it to new heights, delivering a beverage that embodies the spirit of summer in every sip.”
High Noon Vodka Iced Tea is the ideal companion for backyard barbecues, beach days, and any occasion where good times are on the menu. Crafted with the finest ingredients and High Noon’s signature commitment to quality, the new offering encourages tea lovers to trade up their malt-based hard tea for a twist on the summertime classic, and is sure to redefine the summer beverage scene.
High Noon Vodka Iced Tea joins a growing High Noon family alongside consumer favorites like High Noon Vodka Seltzer and High Noon Tequila Seltzer. For more information on High Noon and the new line of Vodka Iced Tea, visit HighNoonSpirits.com or check them out on Instagram.
*Source: NABCA & Total MULO+CONV+LIQUOR last 52W ending 03.03.2024
**Source: IRI Consumer Network Households (NCP) 52 Weeks ending 10/1/2023 vs. YA- Total U.S. All Outlets, NBD Adjusted (Vol)
***Source: IWSR RTDs Strategic Study 2023 – United States
About High Noon
High Noon was introduced in 2019, giving fans a more premium hard seltzer made with real spirits and encouraging them to live like the sun’s always out. Just four years after its inception, the brand was crowned the #1 Spirits Brand by Volume**. High Noon offers something for everyone with High Noon Vodka Seltzer, High Noon Tequila Seltzer, and High Noon Vodka Iced Tea varieties. The Vodka Seltzer and Tequila Seltzer varieties are made with real fruit juice, and the Vodka Iced Tea variety is made with real tea. The full line up is gluten free and has no added sugar. High Noon is part of Spirit of Gallo, an award-winning spirits portfolio that includes E&J Brandy, New Amsterdam Vodka, Pink Whitney, RumChata and more.
About Spirit of Gallo
For nearly half a century, the Gallo family has been growing its portfolio of spirits, now enjoyed by people around the world at occasions ranging from a day at the beach to a fine, after-dinner drink. Known best for E&J Brandy, New Amsterdam and the highly acclaimed High Noon Hard Seltzer, Spirit of Gallo also delivers RumChata, Stratusphere Gin, RumHaven and esteemed partner-owned brands such as The Dalmore, Don Fulano, and Grupo Montenegro. Spirit of Gallo portfolio is featured on www.spiritofgallo.com.
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SOURCE High Noon Spirits Company
The Alarm Bells of Vague Wine Bottle Labels: What You Need to Know
The role of a wine label is to inform the customer about what the bottle contains. However, in practice, this is not always the case. If your wine label simply mentions ‘wine of California’ or a vague geographical area like that, you may be left wondering about the actual content of the bottle. Whether you’re visiting a winery or trying to find a good grocery store wine, it is important to inspect the bottle carefully. A reliable wine label should provide information about the producer, region, vintage (the year the grapes were picked), types of grapes, and ABV.
The location where the grapes were harvested matters significantly because it pertains to terroir. Terroir (not to be confused with “minerality,” which doesn’t exist) refers to the impact of the natural environment on a specific wine. For example, various factors like the altitude, sun exposure, soil type, weather conditions, and cold nights, influence the taste of the grapes. Understanding the climatic conditions of the wine-producing region can provide valuable insights into the taste and feel of the wine, regardless of whether the grapes come from well-known wine-producing regions like Napa Valley or, increasingly, Wisconsin.
Read more: 15 Popular Hard Seltzer Brands, Ranked Worst To Best
Fortunately for today’s consumers, it’s not necessary to remember all the unique characteristics of different wine regions; leave that to the experts. If you’re browsing wines in a shop, feel free to refer to your smartphone. A quick search like ‘2019 Syrah Morocco’ can help you find a wine that you’re likely to enjoy. Similarly, if the label says ‘estate-bottled,’ you can find more details by looking up that specific estate. Estate-bottled wines must only include grapes grown on the estate’s vineyard and carry an official appellation if the wine is blended with other varietals.
If the only thing you know about your wine is that it’s a “merlot,” it might be a budget-friendly bottle (which rocks), but if you’re trying to guarantee a certain profile from your wine, vagueness in a label is not encouraging in that capacity. Even if a particular bottle of wine uses a hybrid blend of wine grapes, like a CMS blend (cab, merlot, syrah), the label should indicate what percentage of each grape varietal is in the finished wine.
To take it one step further, wines from some regions like Piedmont, Italy or Bordeaux, France might come with a D.O.C. label so fans can be sure they’re getting the real deal. Protected quality guarantees a wine’s provenance, authenticity, style, and quality, allowing consumers to make educated decisions about which bottles to purchase.
Read the original article on Tasting Table
Unveiling the 15 Top-Selling Rum Brands Globally
We will explore the top 15 rum brands across the globe in this article. If you want to bypass our comprehensive analysis of the international rum market, the recently introduced rum RTD, and sustainability practices in the rum sector, you may want to head straight to the 5 Best-Selling Rum Brands in the World.
The finest rums are predominantly produced in the Caribbean region. The sugarcane crop was brought to this zone in the late 15th century by Europeans and swiftly became well-established. The settlers started sugar plantations, employing forced labour from African slaves. These plantations became the birthplaces of rum. The drink quickly gained popularity, even making its way to Colonial North America. It is believed that on average, every man and woman in the American colonies consumed about three imperial gallons of rum each year before the American Revolutionary War.
As we pointed out in our previous post –12 Countries that Produce the Best Rum in the World – it is projected that the worldwide rum market, which stood at $17.4 billion in 2023, will grow to $24.5 billion by 2033. This is expected to happen at a CAGR of 3.5% during this forecast period.
Rum is gaining popularity and making its mark more substantially in the USA. The category is showing consistent growth, thanks to a few intersecting trends of increasing popularity. In the recent past, rum producers have begun experimenting with incorporating flavors into rum, which has made the segment far more diverse in terms of the offerings. Break it down, and you will find that flavored and spiced rums currently make up over 57% of all rum sales.
This highly mixable spirit also provides a key function in cocktail culture. While rum is a staple of on-premise tiki bars, it is also one of the only spirits for which it’s common to blend multiple varieties in the same cocktail. According to Bacardi’s 2022 Cocktail Trends Report, four of the top-10 best-selling cocktails are rum drinks, making the spirit a must-have for all on-premise programs.
Ready-to-drink beverages continue to make headlines as the fastest-growing alcohol beverage category. RTD cocktails grew 325% between 2011 and 2021, with 68 new drinks hitting the market only in 2021.
A new RTD offering that popped up in the market this February is Captain Morgan Sliced, a line of canned malt-based cocktails with 5.8% alcohol by volume. Owned by Diageo plc (NYSE:DEO), the spiced rum brand is seeking a greater presence in the growing canned spirits space. Available in four flavors, Captain Morgan Sliced cans are now available nationwide in a 12-count variety pack priced at $19.99. Diageo plc (NYSE:DEO) also launched another product of the rum brand earlier this year – Captain Morgan Sliced Up. Available in 23.5oz and 16oz can offerings of Long Island Iced Tea and Tropical Hurricane, these 8% ABV cocktails are available in local convenience stores and wherever you can find Captain Morgan.
Diageo plc (NYSE:DEO) sits among the Best Brewery and Distillery Stocks to Buy Now.
The modern consumer has become increasingly aware of the climate emergency we unfortunately find ourselves in, and actively seeks out sustainable brands, even if it means paying extra. So, as rum manufacturers find themselves in an increasingly competitive market, committing psychologically and economically to reducing their impact on the planet may also be the only means to make their businesses sustainable in the long run.
In October 2023, Bacardi Limited, the Largest Privately Held Spirits Company in the World, announced the opening of a new Combined Heat & Power (CHP) system at its rum distillery in Puerto Rico that will cut the greenhouse emissions of its Bacardí rum brand in half. The new system will produce 100% of the energy to run the distillery, as well as its surrounding facilities, by replacing the heavy fuel oil with propane gas.
The move is part of the Bermuda-based company’s broader Good Spirited global sustainability program, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. As part of the program, Bacardi aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions at its production sites by 50%, water consumption by 25%, and using 100% recyclable product packaging and 40% recycled content of product packaging materials. In addition, the spirits company is also aiming for zero waste to landfill at all of its production sites across the world.
With a portfolio of more than 200 brands and labels under its belt, Bacardi Limited is one of the Largest Alcohol Companies in the World.
Here are the Most Popular Rum Brands in the World.
We’ve gathered information for this article from The Brand Champions 2023 magazine by The Spirits Business. We searched for the Top-Selling Rum Brands in the World. The magazine only provided details for the top 10 best-selling rum brands, which we’ve ranked according to their 9-liter case sales volumes in 2022. Due to lack of reliable data for the remaining brands, we resorted to estimating sales based on popularity. Brands that were frequently mentioned on sites such as VinePair, Liquor, and Men’s Journal etc., were assigned a score of 1 each time they appeared on these platforms. The scores were then added together to rank the brands.
By the way, Insider Monkey, an investment website that monitors corporate insiders and hedge fund activities, uses a similar consensus system to determine the top stock picks from over 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. Hedge funds’ top 10 consensus stock picks have outpaced the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the past decade (see the details here). Whether you are a novice or a seasoned investor looking for the best stocks to buy, you can gain insights from the strategies of hedge funds and corporate insiders.
Insider Monkey Score: 3
Don Q is a rum brand that is very proud of its Puerto Rican heritage. The brand has been produced by Destilería Serrallés since 1865, which is known as the oldest continuously running distillery on the island. To this day, it remains the island’s top-selling rum. The brand began distributing in the United States in 2009.
The distillery in Ponce was given the ‘Green Award’ from The Drinks Business, an accolade awarded to those who demonstrate exceptional environmental practices in the beverage industry.
Insider Monkey Score: 4
Created by Proximo Spirits in 2010, The Kraken is a blend of Caribbean rums that should certainly suit any fans of rich, navy-style rum. Named after the Caribbean sea beast of myth and legend, the spirit is distilled in Trinidad and Tobago where it is blended with 13 secret spices to create a strong, rich, black, and smooth rum.
With over 500,000 9-liter cases sold in the American market in 2021, The Kraken is counted among the Most Popular Rum Brands in the U.S.
Insider Monkey Score: 5
Fully owned by William Grant & Sons since 2008, Sailor Jerry is blended with the finest rums from the Caribbean and a recipe of natural spices.
Owner of some of the Most Popular Scotch Whisky Brands in USA, William Grant & Sons boasts distilling and bottling operations in Scotland, Ireland, Iceland, India, the US, and Mexico, with a team of over 2,600 employees at 48 global locations.
Insider Monkey Score: 6
Despite not being exactly world famous for its rum, India is the country that drinks the most rum in the world, both in terms of consumption per capita and in terms of most rum drunk each year. Old Monk has been the most popular rum brand in the South Asian nation for decades. This inexpensive, best-selling dark rum has come to define what rum should taste like for generations of Indians.
Insider Monkey Score: 7
Although it is technically a liqueur, Malibu is called a ‘flavored rum’ by its owner Pernod Ricard, which is permissible by local laws. This original coconut-flavored rum is a staple in iconic cocktails such as piña coladas and daiquiris.
Pernod Ricard became the owner of Malibu when it acquired Allied Domecq in 2005, in a deal worth $14 billion.
9-Liter Cases Sold in 2022: 1.1 million
Appleton Estate is the oldest and most famous of all of Jamaica’s sugar-cane estates. It makes some of the Highest Quality Rums in the World with characteristic Christmas cake and butterscotch flavors and is known for its long-aged editions.
Gruppo Campari acquired Appleton, including the Wray & Nephew and Coruba Rum brands, in December 2012. This acquisition was part of the Italian conglomerate’s purchase of the Jamaican firm Lascelles deMercado & Co for a price tag of $409 million.
The exceptional Appleton Estate 15 Year Old Black River Casks has found its place among the Finest Rums to Enjoy Neat.
Sales in 9-Liter Cases for 2022: 1.3 million
Božkov Original, a traditional Czech rum with a smooth palate and subtle notes of caramel and spices, is easy to drink. Despite remaining in the Top 10 Most Sought-after Rum Brands, Božkov saw a drop of 9.9% in sales in 2022 compared to the year before.
9-Liter Cases Sold in 2022: 1.3 million
Owned by Radico Khaitan, this Indian rum is matured in wood to make it warm and mellow. The Contessa rums have won several international awards and are especially popular among the Indian military.
Radico Khaitan is among the Largest Liquor Companies in India, boasting a revenue of around $383.9 million in 2022.
9-Liter Cases Sold in 2022: 1.5 million
Old Port is distilled and aged at Amrut’s distillery in Bangalore, India, using 100% native Indian sugarcane. The brand saw a stunning 40.6% rise in sales in 2022 compared to the year prior, with it selling 1.1 million cases. Because of this, it is listed among the Fastest-Growing Spirit Brands in the World.
9-Liter Cases Sold in 2022: 2.7 million
Ron Barceló is considered the top Dominican rum and the most exported dark rum in the world, produced entirely from sugar cane juice from the distillery’s own fields. Majorly owned by Spanish spirits firm Grupo Varma, Ron Barceló is a carbon-neutral brand, having been certified in 2019 by the SGS Group for both its product life cycle and the organization itself.
Ron Barceló takes 6th place in our list of the World’s Most Popular Rum Brands.
Click to continue reading and see the 5 Best-Selling Rum Brands in the World.
Suggested Articles:
20 Best Rums for a Refreshing Mojito
25 Most Popular Whiskey Brands in the World
Top 20 Best Selling Vodka Brands in the World
Disclosure: None. 15 Best-Selling Rum Brands in the World is originally published on Insider Monkey.
Discovering Westward Whiskey: The Crest of American Whiskey
Westward began in 2004 with a vision: to make a distinctive American Whiskey inspired by the American Northwest.
Though we had always deeply respected the history and tradition of whiskey- making around the world, we sought to make something entirely new and Westward Whiskey was born. At the time, there were only three dozen craft distilleries in the U.S. Today, helmed by Founder & CEO Thomas Mooney, Westward is a proud leader among more than 2,200 producers.
WESTWARD WHISKEY PINOT NOIR CASK
From humble beginnings to its impressive footprint today, creating a bold, robust, and delicious whiskey has remained the team’s true passion. For more than two decades, we’ve proudly served as a leading voice for American Whiskey.
WESTWARD WHISKEY STOUT CASK
The Westward Way
At Westward, we’re beholden to whiskey, not the traditions that surround it. This mindset — to set whiskey free — informs our process, where we brew like a craft ale, distill like a Single Malt, and age like a Bourbon. We pursue perfection by building flavor in every step of the way. There are no shortcuts in our long, deliberate process, and therein lies the beauty.
At Westward, our portfolio of award-winning whiskeys offers something for every discerning drinker. Born from our love for whiskey and our desire to create something entirely new, this elevated American original demonstrates our craftsmanship and creativity.
WESTWARD WHISKEY CASK STRENGTH
To Explore the Range including Westward Whiskey Original, Pinot Noir Cask, Stout Cask, Rum Cask and Cask Strength click here and Become a Stockist click here
The leading online news service for Australia’s beer, wine, spirits and hospitality industries. More by The Shout Team
The Beer Battle that Divided the Biggest Party in a Texas Town
MUENSTER, Texas — Social media attacks. Intransigent factions. An anonymous letter complaining about the harm done by some neighbors to the harmony of a bucolic Texas town.
The division that erupted in recent months in Muenster, Texas, a farming and ranching community north of Dallas, resembles the political polarization that has ripped apart many communities across the nation.
But the fight in Muenster, a town settled by German immigrants, has not been about politics. It has been about beer.
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Or rather, about how to divvy up the proceeds from selling beer at the biggest thing that happens in Muenster every year: the town’s three-day Germanfest. The dispute has bitterly divided neighbors in a town that prides itself on its Texas German heritage and spirit of volunteerism.
Suddenly, instead of one celebration on the last weekend in April, there were two — two places for the town’s 1,600 residents to partake of beer, sausages and music, each a short walk from the other, on either side of Division Street.
At stake were not only competing visions of the town’s signature event but the survival of the kinds of old-fashioned community volunteer groups that historically formed part of the backbone of American towns. In Muenster, they still do — and Germanfest has long been their biggest moneymaker.
“It put tears in my eyes,” said William Fisher, 83, as he ate breakfast at Rohmer’s, the town’s wood-paneled, schnitzel-serving diner. “All of a sudden, it seems like the town went haywire.”
For some, the split marked the culmination of rising discontent over the growth of the festival, which draws about 20,000 visitors.
That was particularly true after 2018 when the festival moved into a newly built, cavernous indoor space on sprawling grounds at the edge of town.
“It became more of an outsider thing and lost that local touch,” said Leslie Hess Eddleman, a dental hygienist and former Dallas Cowboys cheerleader. “They turned it into this big show for out-of-towners but not for us.”
But what finally brought about the split was not who attended the festival but a dispute over the beer contract, which was up for renewal.
The Jaycees, a national junior civic organization, had a long-standing practice of selling beer, utilizing its members as volunteers and pocketing nearly 80% of the profit.
The Muenster Chamber of Commerce, the entity in charge of Germanfest, aimed to renegotiate this agreement. Initially, they suggested a 50-50 split, but later proposed giving the Jaycees 70% of the profits on the condition that they helped with the decoration.
“We bear all the risk,” exclaimed Matt Sicking, the chamber president and a county commissioner. “In case of a washout, all our investment goes down the drain.”
The negotiation ended in a stalemate with neither party willing to compromise.
“You ever hear of a stubborn German? They had their minds made up,” said Wayne Klement, 74, a Jaycee senator. “That’s when we decided we’ll just have a party of our own.”
The group was encouraged when others joined. Many did: the Knights of Columbus, the Boy Scouts, a local meat seller, the family that puts on a hammer-and-nail-in-a-log game they call “nägelschlagen.”
Soon, it had turned into an all-out rebellion.
Who lays claim to Germanfest could not be more important in a town such as Muenster, which sits in the rolling farmland near Texas’ Red River boundary with Oklahoma.
German family names like Fishers and Flusches dominate the business landscape after their ancestors settled and stayed. Even local police cars reflect a German influence with “Zu Dienen und Beschützen” displaying on them, a promise to serve and protect. The local high school football team faces its rival in a grudge match called the “Kraut Bowl” every year against Lindsay, another town with strong German heritage.
In the 1800s, Texas was a popular destination for German immigrants, especially the cities of Fredricksburg and New Braunfels near Austin. Some schools in these locations were even primarily instructing in German.
According to Walter Kamphoefner, a history professor at Texas A&M University, “In Texas, the German language persisted longer and more ardently than any other place in the United States”.
Muenster’s creation stemmed from the effort of brothers who wanted to establish a distinctly German Catholic community. Though the journey was fraught with obstacles – tornadoes destroyed their first and second church — they persisted.
Life in Muenster still revolves around the church. The town has both a Catholic school and a public school. Families of six children or more are not unusual.
“It’s like in Europe,” said Chuck Bartush, one of 13 siblings and one of the town’s only lawyers. “It’s old school. Medieval almost.”
Muenster is also home to an enduring culture of volunteerism. The Jaycees, whose members are community-minded adults 40 and younger, occupy a prominent perch. Local members include city councilors, business owners and the mayor.
Like many volunteer groups across the United States, the Jaycees has dwindled. In Texas, there were once scores of chapters. Now there are just 12.
The concept of a festival to celebrate the town’s German heritage emerged as the country was gearing up for its bicentennial in 1976. The festival quickly gained traction, drawing visitors from Dallas and beyond. Activities included tug of war, arm wrestling, and on at least one occasion, a beauty pageant.
The Jaycees contributed arguably the most significant factor: the beer. This club has a refrigerated trailer that can accommodate around 200 kegs and has 32 beer taps. They have recently acquired an additional trailer of a smaller size.
“This weekend is essential for our club,” said Klement. He further noted that the Jaycees donated $165,000 last year, primarily to local families in need.
Data from the Chamber of Commerce showed that the Jaycees made roughly $120,000 from the previous Germanfest, while the Chamber profited $164,000. Sicking stated that the expenses associated with organizing the festival continue to increase.
On the inaugural day of the chamber’s festival, participants sat around tables consuming sausages on skewers to the melodious tunes of polka. Females in stylized dirndl outfits and males in lederhosen clinked their glasses together with synchronized cries of “Prost!”
A little farther, the Jaycee fiesta held in Muenster City Park vibrated with classic rock tunes, inducing feelings of nostalgia among the sizeable assembly. An enormous beer truck endowed with numerous beer taps held a prominent place on the park’s green expanse.
Shishana Barnhill, an Alaska native who married into Rohmer’s family, mentioned, “There’s no place I’ve visited across the globe that has preserved its traditions as strongly as Muenster. The sense of familial togetherness in this town is overwhelming.”
Being one among the limited count of Black inhabitants, Barnhill recounted an incident when white supremacists halted at the dinner, engendering feelings of discomfort. However, she feels reassured by the town’s response as she stated, “They were not made to feel welcome here.”
As she verbalized, spectators thronged the stands for the tug-of-war competition.
“Pull!” echoed from numerous individuals in the assemblage.
Subsequent to the struggle, the contestants crumbled onto the field. A bystander proffered a marriage proposal to his sweetheart. She acquiesced.
Ultimately, the two rival events generally managed to turn a blind eye to each other. The supply of beer had been amply sufficient.
Sicking appeared to be weary of the battle.
“We can stay here lamenting all day, but it’s not going to alter anything,” he uttered. “The outcome will pan out according to what the holy Lord desires.”
Copyright 2024 The New York Times Company
Unveiling the Riches of Jordan Wine Estate in Stellenbosch, South Africa
STELLENBOSCH, SOUTH AFRICA – An aerial view of Jordan Wine Estate. This iconic destination seamlessly combines the art of winemaking, culinary excellence and unparalleled hospitality, creating a one-of-a-kind experience that deeply engages the senses and creates a memorable impact.
In the heart of South Africa’s Cape Winelands, Jordan Wine Estate epitomizes the region’s abundance of riches. Not only is the winery (or wine farm as they are called in South Africa) among the most acclaimed in Stellenbosch, but it’s also home to a world-class restaurant. And for those seeking the ultimate winelands getaway, Jordan Wine Estate offers some of the most sought-after accommodation in the area. This iconic destination seamlessly combines the art of winemaking, culinary excellence and unparalleled hospitality, creating an immersive experience that captivates the senses and leaves a lasting impression. Discover for yourself why Jordan Wine Estate is the place to visit in Stellenbosch.
Jordan Wine Estate is a family-owned winery well-known for making exceptional wines that showcase the unique terroir of the region.
The Winery and Wines
Jordan Wine Estate is a family-owned winery well-known for making exceptional wines that showcase the unique terroir of the region. What sets Jordan Wine Estate apart is its unique location and landscape. The estate’s slopes not only face the warmer north and west but also the cooler south and east directions, with vineyards lying at altitudes between 160 and 410 meters above sea level. This multifaceted orientation permits a wide variety of microclimates, which in turn allows the cultivation of an impressive range of grape varieties.
Furthermore, the estate’s proximity to both the Indian and Atlantic Oceans provides an additional layer of complexity to the terroir. The vineyards also reap the benefits of coastal fog and cool breezes, which help to moderate temperatures and ensure a slow, even ripening process. The result: grapes with excellent purity and balance, which translate into wines of exceptional quality.
But don’t take my word for it. The best way to discover Jordan’s unparalleled assets in terms of landscape and location is to see (and taste!) them for yourself by going on a 360° tour of the vineyards. Just one of the activities offered by the winery, this exclusive vineyard and cellar experience takes you on a guided tour through the vineyards in an open safari-style game viewing Land Rover. Along the way, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of False and Table Bays, as you sip and savor some of Jordan’s top vintages. Or do a guided wine tasting under the cover of ancient trees overlooking the lake (you might just catch a glimpse of a rare Cape chameleon in the bushes).
Jordan’s wine portfolio is diverse and impressive, offering something for every palate, including chenin, sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, merlot, cabernet sauvignon, and Syrah. Each wine varietal shows off the nuances and personality of the terroir to its fullest. Two especially notable wine lines from Jordan are the Sophia and Timepiece. The Sophia is a premium Bordeaux-style blend named after the legendary mother of Faith, Hope, and Charity. Deeply layered, this wine offers an opulent finish. Timepiece wines highlight Jordan’s heritage, featuring only single-vineyard varietals from vines over 35 years old.
The Jordan Restaurant with Marthinus Ferreira is a culinary gem.
The Restaurant
The Jordan Restaurant with Marthinus Ferreira is a culinary masterpiece. The skillful chef Ferreira, replacing former chef George Jardine, provides guests an unparalleled formal dining experience with an immaculate blend of outstanding flavors. The tasting menu is a parade of the latest, tastefully delicious farm cuisine enhanced with supreme flavors, structures, and techniques. The dishes are so elegantly presented, it leaves you wondering if Ferreira was a painter in his previous life. With the availability of an open kitchen, you can witness first hand Ferreira’s zeal for food as he prepares your meal. Unexpected color and texture mixes and inventive plating techniques contribute to visually appealing masterpieces that are almost too lovely to eat. Almost.
Savor dishes such as the excellently cooked seared yellowfin tuna adorned with lumpfish roe and escabeche. The sous vide springbok loin offers unimaginable tenderness, the pleasure of which can make you emotional. And the chocolate marquise, topped with malted fudge caramel sauce, will be something you’ll reminisce for weeks after the feast. For a heightened dining experience, opt for the wine pairing and entrust your taste buds to sommelier Richard Chitukutuku. His carefully selected wines and real hospitality will enhance what is already an ideal meal.
So, what could possibly make this meal any better? Leave it to Jordan to take things up a notch with a wall of floor-to-ceiling windows (in summer, the windows slide fully open) that guests can look through to take in sunset over a lake hugged by undulating vineyards and the tranquil beauty of the Stellenbosch winelands. It’s jaw-droppingly beautiful and the vista makes for an ideal meal companion.
For a truly immersive stay in Stellenbosch, you’d do well to book a couple of nights at Jordan Wine Estate’s luxury suites, which overlook the vineyards and Stellenbosch mountains.
The Accommodation
For a truly immersive stay in Stellenbosch, you’d do well to book a couple of nights at Jordan Wine Estate’s luxury suites, which overlook the vineyards and Stellenbosch mountains. Tucked away discretely among the natural mountain fynbos of the region, you’re just steps from the winery and restaurant — though you’ll feel like you are miles away hidden in a verdant oasis. In fact, Jordan Wine Estate belongs to the Cape Floral Region, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its amazing biodiversity. This region, despite being the smallest of the world’s six floral kingdoms, boasts an exceptional array of plant species, many of which are found nowhere else on earth.
The comforts inside are just as inviting as the beauty outside. Large rooms with king-size beds, high-quality Egyptian cotton bedding, and floor-to-ceiling windows make up each unique suite to guarantee a memorable and luxurious stay. A number of suites feature a soaking tub, wood-burning fireplace with firewood provided, and a separate lounge area. Every room has a private veranda for you to enjoy the provided bottle of Jordan wine while taking in the breathtaking scenery of vineyards and mountains. This is a place to truly immerse yourself in the serene uniqueness of South Africa’s Stellenbosch region.
Tragic Death of ‘Gentle Soul’ in Homophobic, Vodka-Fuelled Attack at Home
Drunk Vitalie Tanga has been handed a life sentence for murdering Alfred Mattox at his home in Wolverhampton during VE Day celebrations, Wolverhampton Crown Court heard
A ‘homophobic’ killer beat a ‘gentle soul’ to death in his own home.
Drunk Vitalie Tanga has been handed a life sentence for the ‘vodka-fuelled rampage’ which saw him end the life of Alfred Mattox by kicking him savagely in the head, leaving him with multiple facial fractures and brain damage.
The ‘senseless killing’ came as the 56-year-old victim and his friends were celebrating VE Day in his Wolverhampton home. Tanga launched the attack on Mr Mattox because he was gay, prosecutors told Wolverhampton Crown Court. The intoxicated killer kicked him multiple times in the head, leaving him fatally wounded on the kitchen floor
Tanga made allegations that his victim had initiated an unwelcome romantic gesture moments before the attack. This incited a violent response from Tanga. His defense team argued that this inopportune approach drove Tanga to assert his masculinity.
40-year-old Tanga pleaded not guilty to murdering Mr. Mattox, a carer, and a second charge of assault causing actual bodily harm to Mattox’s tenant. However, the jurors came to the unanimous decision that Tanga was indeed guilty of both charges on 19th April. Following the verdict, Tanga was incarcerated for life with a minimum term of 25 years on May 3rd at the Wolverhampton Crown Court.
At the time of sentencing, Judge Michael Chambers KC stated, “You subjected Mr. Mattox to a brutal and sustained attack in the safety of his own home. The event was incited by a vodka-fueled rage during which you repeatedly kicked him in the head causing severe fractures and brain damage, leading to his death on 24th May.”
The court disclosed the incidents of May 10, 2021 leading to an attack. Mr. Mattox, his tenant and a companion went to Merridale, Wolverhampton with a bottle of vodka to commemorate the ending of World War II. Tanga, the killer, also partook in the celebration. The group later went out to buy more vodka, according to BirminghamLive.
The victim appeared to be in good spirits during a FaceTime call with his brother at 4.34pm, stated the court. However, less than an hour later, disturbing noises prompted neighbors to alert the police. Arriving at the scene at 5.45pm, the police discovered Mr. Mattox unconscious on the floor. He had suffered severe fractures to his face and skull followed by brain damage leading to organ failure.
Mr. Mattox passed away a fortnight later on May 24. A forensic pathologist from the Home Office claimed that there must have been ‘at least three heavy blows to the head’, consistent with kicking. Upon police’s arrival to the scene, Tanga informed them that the victim was a homosexual. He later justified his actions by saying that the victim had made advances towards him.
Tanga’s second victim bore bruises and scratches from an assault at Mr Mattox’s residence. The timing of the injuries is uncertain, but the victim has now completely recovered.
West Midlands Police stated that Tanga hindered officers from entering the victim’s apartment for seven minutes after they got there. He also reportedly tried to escape.
In court, the prosecution represented by Andrew Wallace, said there was an absence of fatal intent, however, there was an aim of inflicting serious physical harm. According to him, the brutality of the murder was escalated by Tanga’s ‘hostility’ towards his victim’s sexual preference.
The defense, headed by Amjad Malik KC, argued that the victim, Mr Mattox, made a sexual move on his killer, which triggered an ‘out of proportion’ reaction from the ‘highly inebriated’ Tanga. It was reported that Tanga was asked to vacate the apartment as he was ‘no longer wanted’, but he declined and ‘reacted with explosive aggression’, as stated by Mr Malik.
The defense continued to assert that Tanga did not harbor homophobic feelings and that the victim’s sexual preference did not trigger his violence. Mr Malik stated: “The facts clearly indicate that Tanga had known Mr Mattox for a number of years. There was absolutely no issue.”
Judge Chambers stated that the ‘extreme violence’ exhibited by Tanga was largely due to his ‘hostility’ towards the victim’s ‘sexual orientation’. According to the judge, this severe attack was much more than a simple reaction to a sexual advance.
The statement made to the jury indicated that the act was inspired and motivated by a negative attitude towards Mr Mattox’s sexual orientation. And the gathered evidence supports this conclusion.
The court was informed that Tanga, who was aided by a Russian interpreter in court, had a history of violent behavior. For several years, Tanga has suffered from a form of psychotic disorder, likely paranoid schizophrenia, the judge further mentioned.
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