Penelope Bourbon has made a significant mark in the whiskey industry since its inception in 2018, rapidly establishing itself as one of the most popular American whiskey brands. The company gained substantial attention when it was acquired by MGP, a prominent grain and whiskey conglomerate, in a deal reported to be worth up to $200 million in 2023. Despite the acquisition, the founders, Michael Paladini and Danny Polise, have remained active, continuing to lead the brand and oversee product innovations.

Their latest offering is the "Architects of Golf" series, a unique collection of 18 limited edition bottles designed to capture the essence of a round of golf. Both Paladini and Polise are avid golf enthusiasts, and their passion for the sport is evident in this new creation.

The series pays tribute to Penelope’s existing Architect bourbon, which incorporates French oak staves, adding complexity to the whiskey’s flavor profile. The new collection features three initial bottles, each a 6-year bourbon whiskey bottled at 94 proof. While the specific distillation source isn’t disclosed, past releases suggest that it likely comes from MGP-owned Ross & Squibb in Indiana, or Luxco’s Lux Row in Kentucky.

The bourbons in this series are finished with American oak staves, applied with varying intensities over different durations. For example, the first bottle has the lightest stave finish, while the third bottle has the most robust application.

Paladini reflects on the significance of the series, stating, “Architects of Golf is a nod to the subtleties of the game and where some of our best ideas took shape.” He emphasizes how minor adjustments in the blending process can lead to substantial impacts on the final product.

The Architects of Golf series is set to hit shelves in May, with each bottle priced at a suggested retail of $59.99.

The American Distilling Institute’s 2026 Judging showcased the evolving landscape of bourbon, emphasizing its traditional roots while highlighting innovative approaches. The results revealed three standout bourbons, each demonstrating unique expressions and character.

1. Still 630 Distillery, Due Process Bourbon (65.4% ABV)
Produced in St. Louis, Missouri, Due Process is celebrated for its raw power and intensity. With a mash bill of 70% corn, 20% rye, and 10% malted barley, this bourbon is aged for 4-5 years and bottled at a notable 130.6 proof. The bourbon offers a bold nose featuring caramelized sugar, vanilla, and toasted oak, with flavors of clove, cinnamon, and charred oak resonating on the palate. It presents a dense texture and a lengthy finish marked by oak char and peppery rye spice.

2. Widow Jane 10-Year Bourbon (45.5% ABV)
Sourced from various Kentucky distilleries and bottled in Brooklyn, Widow Jane is known for its uniqueness, with limestone-rich water from the Widow Jane Mine enhancing its profile. This bourbon features layered aromas of vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg, complemented by a blend of cherry and toasted pecan on the palate. Its smooth texture and balanced finish make it approachable while maintaining complexity.

3. Joseph Magnus Bourbon (50% ABV)
Joseph Magnus takes a distinctive route by finishing primarily 8–9-year-old Indiana bourbon in sherry and Cognac casks, creating a whiskey rich in dried fruit and chocolate flavors. It combines toffee and brown sugar notes with spices and a velvety mouthfeel. The finish is long and evolving, integrating both oak and nutty tones.

These selections highlight the breadth of bourbon’s stylistic range, reinforcing that within the strict legal definitions, creativity is abundant. Each expression presents an excellent choice for any bourbon enthusiast, offering a blend of tradition and innovation at relatively reasonable prices.

This refreshing Raspberry Vodka Sour cocktail is designed to elevate your happy hour with its vibrant flavors and simple preparation. With a combination of fresh raspberries, vodka, and lemon juice, it offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness, making it the perfect drink for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 6 fresh raspberries, plus extra for garnish
• 1/2 to 3/4 oz simple syrup
• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice

Directions

1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the raspberries with simple syrup until they break down.
2. Add the vodka, lemon juice, and ice to the shaker. Shake vigorously for 15 to 20 seconds until well chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a coupe or cocktail glass using a fine mesh strainer.
4. Finish with a fresh raspberry on a cocktail pick for garnish.

This cocktail not only impresses visually but is also quick to make, allowing you to enjoy a stylish drink in just minutes. Cheers to delightful cocktails and joyful gatherings!

Kuleana Rum Works, a Hawaiian distillery known for its additive-free rums, is expanding its reach across the U.S. despite a shrinking spirits market. The company has partnered with Craft & Art Wine and Spirits to bolster its national infrastructure for distribution. This partnership comes as Kuleana Rum Works experiences remarkable growth, evidenced by a 93.1% increase in 52-week dollar sales and a 100% year-to-date growth.

The popularity of Kuleana’s rum isn’t just a trend; consumers are increasingly opting for transparency and natural flavors in their spirits. Instead of relying on additives commonly used in the industry, Kuleana focuses on using fresh heirloom Hawaiian sugarcane, also known as kō, sourced from its regenerative farm in Kohala. This dedication allows Kuleana Rum Works to distill flavors that cannot be mimicked using conventional methods.

Steve Jefferson, Founder and CEO, emphasizes the company’s commitment to what they call “Rum Revolution 2.0,” which demonstrates consumer demand for exceptional, natural products. Their rum range includes notable offerings such as Huihui®, Nanea®, Hawaiian Rum Agricole®, and Hōkūlei®, each crafted to showcase what additive-free rum can achieve in terms of flavor and versatility.

The CEO of Craft & Art, Kevin Fennessey, echoes this sentiment by highlighting how Kuleana is redefining the rum category through its unique approach and quality. With this strategic partnership, Kuleana aims to transform its growing momentum into a more substantial market presence across various channels.

For more information, visit Kuleana Rum Works and Craft & Art Wine and Spirits.

Crystal Light has reintroduced its popular Vodka Refreshers just in time for summer. The lineup now includes the returning flavors of Lemonade and Wild Strawberry, alongside two exciting new options: Fruit Punch and Raspberry Lemonade.

The Vodka Refreshers are crafted with triple-filtered vodka, offering a lightly fizzy, ready-to-drink experience without the hassles of mixing. This effort marks an expansion into 46 states, making it easier for fans to enjoy these refreshing drinks. Available in four-packs and variety packs, the Vodka Refreshers aim to enhance any summer gathering, from beach days to backyard barbecues.

With the Ready-to-Drink (RTD) cocktail market growing rapidly, Crystal Light’s Vodka Refreshers are poised to capture attention with bold flavors and ease of use, making them a convenient option for any summer event.

For more information, you can check out the official Crystal Light page here.