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New Surcharge on Beer and Wine Sales Proposed Amid Grocery Expansion Plans
Consumers in Maryland may soon face a surcharge on beer and wine purchased from grocery stores if a proposed bill moves forward. Delegate Marlon Amprey (D-Baltimore City) introduced this amendment as part of his legislation aimed at expanding beer and wine sales beyond traditional retailers to grocery stores and large retailers. This legislation has sparked significant debate and concern among various stakeholders.
House Bill 1379 seeks to modernize Maryland’s liquor laws, which currently do not permit beer and wine sales in grocery stores. Amprey emphasizes that this bill could provide greater convenience for consumers without harming existing smaller retailers. However, opponents like Jack Milani, owner of Monaghan’s Pub, argue that larger grocery stores could severely undercut prices, threatening the survival of smaller establishments.
Jaskinder Gill, who invested his life savings into a liquor store, shared a personal story about how his investment could be jeopardized. With a community presence packed with other opponents, Gill voiced concern that many of them share similar fears regarding the future of their businesses.
Despite these concerns, Amprey dismissed them as "sky-is-falling rhetoric," asserting that small businesses would not disappear overnight. He cited examples in Montgomery County and Baltimore City where grocery stores that sell beer and wine coexist with traditional liquor stores.
During a lengthy hearing, committee members raised questions about the potential impact of the proposed expansion on small businesses. Delegate Pam Queen, who pointed out the vast number of grocery stores in Montgomery County, pressed Amprey for more substantial evidence supporting his claims.
To address concerns about small businesses, Amprey proposed amendments to the bill, including a 5% surcharge on beer and wine sales in newly authorized stores. The revenue from this surcharge would be directed toward incentivizing grocers to set up shop in food deserts, particularly in communities with limited access to grocery options.
Amprey also highlighted a “dignity component” to the bill, mentioning that many people feel unsafe in certain liquor stores within predominantly Black communities. His aim is to create an environment where purchasing alcohol feels safe and welcoming.
The legislation has garnered backing from Governor Wes Moore, who believes the initiative aligns with public support for expanding alcohol sales. However, the bill also faces united opposition from alcohol distributors and industry stakeholders who argue it could threaten existing businesses.
As discussions surrounding the proposal continue, House Economic Matters Chair C.T. Wilson expressed skepticism about the bill’s prospects, indicating a lack of appetite among committee members for further discussion. The bill’s future remains uncertain as it must navigate significant legislative challenges.
For more information, visit Maryland Matters.
Exploring the Thriving Craft Beer Scene in This Northern Florida City
Due to its expansive reach, Jacksonville holds the title of Florida’s most populous city. Although other cities like Oakland Park and Tampa are often highlighted for their craft beer scenes, Jacksonville is emerging as a hidden gem for beer lovers. Situated just south of the Georgia border, the Jacksonville area boasts numerous exceptional breweries dotted throughout the metro region, from Atlantic Beach to the downtown district. For those wanting a curated experience, the city provides a guide through the Jax Ale Trail.
Celebrating its tenth anniversary, the Jax Ale Trail features a variety of Jacksonville’s best breweries, mixing long-established institutions with trendy new spots. Guests can pick up a brewery passport at any participating location, either in print or digitally via the Visit Jax app, and earn stamps as they sample different brews. Several prizes await dedicated visitors—collecting four stamps leads to a free Jacksonville-themed koozie, while completing the entire trail rewards enthusiasts with a koozie, an Ale Trail t-shirt, and a special secret prize.
Kicking off on February 25th, 2025, the Jax Ale Trail will also conduct a campaign for the best brewery in Jacksonville.
Currently featuring over twenty participating venues, the trail includes some of the city’s long-standing favorites. For instance, beginning at Aardwolf Brewing Company in the San Marco area south of the St. Johns River is an excellent choice. This cozy brewery, operational since 2013, is popular for its flavorful offerings, including SOUTHBANK Hazy IPA and Nonchalant Session IPA. Afterward, fans of lagers can head north to Intuition Ale Works for a pint of El Guapo or First Coast Kolsch, or opt for a beachside vibe at Green Room Brewing, a quaint microbrewery just steps from the shore.
The Jax Ale Trail also welcomes newer additions like Flying Fish Taphouse, which is perfectly located near the airport and serves as a great pre-flight stop with live music and delicious seafood. Meanwhile, in Atlantic Beach, Reve Brewing & Bones Pizza pairs its unique pizzas with various craft beers, and Tepeyolot Cerveceria offers Mexican dishes complemented by their flagship Biscoff La Bruja Vienna Lager.
Although Jacksonville may not receive the same tourist attention as Miami or Orlando, its craft brewing scene is robust. With breweries spanning from polished downtown venues to colorful establishments near the beach, there is a wealth of outstanding breweries to explore across Duval County. For travelers seeking an underrated destination for a craft beer getaway, Jacksonville shines as one of Florida’s best-kept secrets.
Join the Rum Revolution: Appleton Estate’s Club Takeover Featuring Alastair Walker’s Curated Cocktails!
Renowned bartender Alastair Walker will be making a splash in Ōtautahi on March 1 as part of the 2025 DramFest Trail. This event will take place at Christchurch’s beloved speakeasy, The Austin Club, where Walker will introduce an exclusive cocktail menu inspired by Appleton Estate.
Walker, known for his unique approach to cocktail creation, co-owns popular bars such as Deadshot, Rocketman, and Caretaker. His passion for the industry began with a simple taste of gin during his first bar job, which revealed to him the intricacies of spirit flavors and the art behind craft cocktails.
His journey in bartending started in Manchester while pursuing a Theology degree. After meeting renowned bartender Michael Madrusan, Walker began working at The Everleigh in Australia. There, he was joined by his now-wife, Heather. Together, they established their own venues, kicking off with Caretaker in 2016, followed by Deadshot in 2018 and Rocketman in 2024.
Growing up in the UK influenced Walker’s appreciation for spirits, particularly the variety of bitters and access to diverse spirits. One pivotal moment in his career came from a conversation with his mother, who likened bartending to hosting a daily party—a sentiment that continues to fuel his passion.
Walker highlights the excitement and challenges of New Zealand’s spirit scene, praising the unique character of its craft. As he prepares for the Austin Club takeover, he emphasizes his aim to showcase the distinct flavors of Appleton Estate rum, encouraging attendees to experience cocktails as crafted in the golden era of mixology.
He shares that his favorite rum is the Appleton’s Aged 12 Year, ideal for both sipping and stirring in cocktails. If he could only choose one drink for life, it would be a Sazerac, praising its transformative nature as it warms.
Join Walker on March 1 for an unforgettable evening of exquisite cocktails. For more details and to secure your spot, check out the Austin Club’s upcoming event. Additionally, the festival will feature various exciting activations for Appleton Estate fans.
Supermarkets Slash Prices on Viral ‘Chicken Wine’ Dupes, Leaving Foodies Buzzing
Two major UK supermarkets have recently sparked excitement among shoppers by significantly reducing the prices of beloved ‘chicken wine’ dupes. La Vieille Ferme Rosé, affectionately dubbed ‘chicken wine’ due to its rising popularity among wine enthusiasts, has witnessed a remarkable surge in popularity on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, leading to a staggering 96 percent increase in sales at Sainsbury’s from the previous year.
Previously priced at £7.25 with a Nectar card for a 75cl bottle, it now faces competition from a new contender. The fellow bird-themed wine, Belorante, has joined the fray with a lower price point. For instance, the Belorante Pecorino, originally £8, is now available at Asda for just £6.94, along with other blends like the Belorante Primitivo, now priced at £7.98. Meanwhile, Sainsbury’s has put its own offerings of Belorante Montepulciano D’Abruzzo and Belorante Grillo at £7.75 to encourage customers to compare.
In a surprising twist, Aldi has also entered the competition, with a rosé priced under £2 causing a stir among shoppers. This discovery was highlighted by wine expert Carla Nokes on TikTok, where she enthusiastically shared her experience of finding a bottle priced at just £1.99 in her local Aldi. Nokes was left astounded by both the price and the quality, comparing it favorably to Echo Falls.
As wine lovers continue to explore these affordable options, this playful rivalry between chicken and peacock-themed wines is captivating the attention of both casual drinkers and connoisseurs alike.
Vanessa Oliver Advocates for Wine Distributors: The Case Against Restricting to ‘Reusable’ Kegs
Rep. Vanessa Oliver, a Republican from Port Charlotte, has introduced a bill aimed at removing the restrictions on wine keg usage in Florida. Currently, the law mandates that wine be sold in “reusable” containers, typically metal kegs. Oliver’s proposal, known as HB 6015, seeks to change just one word in this legislation, replacing “reusable” with an optional provision.
According to Oliver, this minor amendment has significant implications for local wine producers, particularly impacting the taste of the wine they can sell. She explained how the restriction prevents producers, such as a constituent who operates a winery making blueberry wine, from distributing their products effectively within Florida. He is unable to sell larger quantities of his wine because existing laws severely limit how it can be packaged for sale.
Oliver highlighted that while Florida may not be as famous for its wines as states like California or Washington, it does have a burgeoning wine industry with approximately three dozen wineries, per the American Winery Guide.
The proposed legislation does not adjust the size of the kegs used for sales but removes the mandatory element of reusability. Oliver believes that this change would allow for the use of recyclable glass kegs, which she argues positively affects the wine’s flavor and quality—something that could greatly benefit local businesses struggling against constraints of the current law.
“This is a really big deal for small businesses in my district,” Oliver stated, emphasizing the economic impact that the bill could have on local wine producers. The change would potentially allow these businesses to diversify their packaging options without compromising on quality, ultimately leading to a better product on the market.
Celebrating 25 Years of the Wine-Soaked Krewe of Cork: Where Mardi Gras Meets New Orleans Hospitality
The Krewe of Cork originated 25 years ago from the essence of a wine-filled Friday lunch in New Orleans, where the ambiance fostered camaraderie and creativity. This celebration of wine, friendship, and hospitality has evolved into a vibrant Carnival organization.
Every year, Krewe of Cork parades are held as a testament to New Orleans’ unique hospitality vibes, marking a convergence of Carnival festivities and local culture. This year’s parade is set to take place on February 21, following a route from the iconic Court of Two Sisters to the Royal Sonesta Hotel.
At the parade, participants can expect a lively atmosphere filled with music, extravagant costumes inspired by wine, and an abundant supply of wine, all overseen by the Krewe’s symbolic “wine police” who ensure everyone’s goblets remain full. Patrick van Hoorebeck, the founder and self-proclaimed “king for life” of the Krewe, emphasizes the significance of connections and shared experiences, referencing the spirit of togetherness that wine fosters.
The concept for the Krewe was sparked during a pre-Mardi Gras lunch in 2000, where the joyous revelry of diners inspired the spontaneous decision to take the celebration to the streets, transforming an ordinary lunch into an extraordinary parade. This community-driven event, devoid of traditional floats, focuses on conviviality, with participants cheering for signature medallions and enjoying the pleasantries of the day.
Among the highlights of the event is the grand marshal, a prominent figure in the wine industry who is celebrated like royalty throughout the festivities. This year, Jean-Charles Boisset is chosen to uphold this honored role, signifying the Krewe’s deep ties within the wine community.
Ultimately, the Krewe of Cork is not merely a parade; it’s a year-round celebration of wine culture, connections, and the New Orleans spirit, deeply rooted in the love for good wine and joyous gatherings.
For more about the Krewe of Cork and its activities, visit their official website.
Whiskey Flat Days: Honoring Kernville’s Wild West Heritage
Whiskey Flat Days Event Revives Kernville’s Wild West Heritage
Kernville recently came alive with its annual Whiskey Flat Days celebration, which honors the area’s rich Wild West history. The festival featured a parade with vintage floats, cowboy reenactments, and plenty of local vendors showcasing crafts and food.
Locals and visitors gathered to participate in a range of activities, from gold panning to historical exhibits. The festival is not just a highlight for the community but also attracts tourists interested in experiencing the charm of Kernville’s past. Many took the opportunity to learn about the area’s mining history, which served as a backdrop for the town’s establishment in the 1800s.
Families enjoyed live music and entertainment throughout the three-day event, culminating in a well-attended evening barbecue that brought the community together. Event organizers expressed excitement about the turnout, highlighting the importance of such celebrations in sustaining local culture and community spirit.
For further details on the festivities, check out KGET Bakersfield.
Maker’s Mark Launches Exciting New Ad Campaign for Bourbon Whiskey
Maker’s Mark is launching a new ad campaign titled “Perfectly Unreasonable,” which debuted during NBC’s “Saturday Night Live” 50th Anniversary Special. This campaign is set to roll out nationally and in select international markets throughout 2025. It includes a 60-second main advertisement along with shorter versions for various media platforms—digital, television, and streaming services.
In the advertisement, viewers follow a man who travels through a winter landscape, collecting ice from a frozen lake. The narrative culminates at his home where he uses the ice to chill a glass of Maker’s Mark bourbon. The voiceover captures the essence of the campaign, stating, “We’re all unreasonable about something. For us, it’s creating an uncompromisingly delicious bourbon.”
This marks Maker’s Mark’s first significant marketing initiative since their 2023 campaign, “Make Your Mark.” Despite its establishment in 1953, the brand only began national advertising over a decade ago in 2011. Rob Samuels, managing director and grandson of the co-founder, acknowledges that while his grandfather had reservations about conventional advertising, storytelling through these ads aligns with the brand’s vision.
The campaign reflects Maker’s Mark’s commitment to quality and distinctive practices, such as achieving third-party regenerative agricultural verification and B Corp Certification. Samuels emphasizes the importance of tradition, mentioning that every bottle continues to be hand-dipped in red wax, a signature method envisioned by Margie Samuels, Rob’s grandmother.
As sales of American whiskey have recently declined—dropping 1.8% to $5.2 billion in 2024—Maker’s Mark is focusing on revamping its advertising strategy to connect with consumers. Chloe Lloyd-Jones, global brand marketing VP, mentions that the campaign’s focus on the outdoors aims to resonate with consumers who are now more discerning about their choices.
Overall, while the American whiskey market experiences challenges, Maker’s Mark remains optimistic about its future, confident that consumers are increasingly prioritizing quality over quantity in their drinking experiences.
From Court to Cork: How Carmelo Anthony Transformed His Love for Wine into a Global Legacy
At House of Robb San Francisco, NBA legend Carmelo Anthony shared insights about his wine brand, VII(N) The Seventh Estate, and its mission to create a diverse wine lineup that pays tribute to vineyards worldwide. During an event ahead of the NBA All-Star Weekend, Anthony, along with cofounder Asani Swann and winemaker Kurtis Ogasawara from Robert Mondavi Winery, discussed their journey into the wine industry.
Anthony’s passion for wine dates back to his early adulthood, where he faced skepticism for enjoying wine at a young age. “People were laughing at me, and it was just like, ‘Why are you drinking wine? You’re 21 years old?’” he reminisced. This intrigue and fervor led him to establish VII(N) The Seventh Estate in 2022, launching with a Châteauneuf-du-Pape called Oath of Fidelity, and now featuring nine wines from various regions, including France, Spain, and the U.S.
The team’s latest endeavor is the Napa red blend, Ode to Soul, crafted with grapes from Napa’s To Kalon vineyard. Swann highlighted the intention behind their wines, emphasizing the homage they pay to predecessors while aspiring to make premium wines accessible to a broad audience.
The blend comprises mainly Cabernet Sauvignon, with Cabernet Franc adding finesse and a hint of Petit Verdot for complexity. Anthony referred to this last addition as the "secret sauce," emphasizing its vital role in enhancing the wine’s overall character.
Swann and Anthony also aimed to inspire others looking to venture into the wine industry, encouraging them to take the leap despite initial doubts. As Anthony humorously advised, when it comes to tasting their new Napa red, “When in doubt, just drink [it].”
For more on Carmelo Anthony and VII(N) The Seventh Estate, visit VII(N) The Seventh Estate.
The Ultimate Guide to the World’s Best Vodka: Insights from the Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America
The Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America has announced the results of its 2025 Wine & Spirits Tasting Competition, highlighting three outstanding vodkas, with Hetman Elite taking the title of Best in Show Vodka. This recognition allows Hetman Elite to advance to the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition. In a conversation with Sam Lerman, CEO of Spyrt Worldwide, he discussed how his Ukrainian vodka company plays a significant role in aiding the nation amid its conflict with Russia.
Lerman transitioned to the beverage industry following a military career, prompted by his experiences during the Russian invasion of Ukraine. In 2022, he volunteered as a military advisor to Ukraine and, during his time in a Ukrainian safe house, he developed a strong affinity for local vodka, particularly Hetman Vodka. His frustration with the limited availability of these products in the U.S. led him and his partners—a retired Marine and a Ukrainian veteran—to establish SPYRT Worldwide to import Ukrainian vodka.
Spyrt Worldwide commits much of its profits to fund demining operations in Ukraine. These efforts are crucial, as Russian forces often leave behind explosive hazards, posing significant risks to civilians in liberated areas. Lerman partners with Invictus Global Response, a nonprofit organization staffed by U.S. military veterans specializing in explosive ordnance disposal. They conduct demining operations and provide training to local organizations, as thousands of civilians have already suffered from landmine incidents since the onset of the war.
The vodka brands represented by Spyrt, such as Hetman and Ukrainian Spirit, are distinguished by their quality, which has been recognized in international competitions. They blend traditional production methods with modern techniques, using excellent artesian water for distillation. Hetman Vodka, for instance, has its water sourced from the Carpathian Mountains and is praised for its smoothness and exceptional taste.
Looking ahead, Lerman aims to expand distribution across the U.S. and promote Ukrainian vodka, utilizing the concept of "Wine and Spirits Diplomacy" to support Ukraine’s economy. He hopes that by introducing these exceptional vodka products to American consumers, they can contribute to both economic recovery and humanitarian efforts in Ukraine, embodying a commitment to demining the country, one vodka shot at a time.
Finalists of the 2025 Wine & Spirits Tasting Competition:
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Hetman Elite Vodka
- ABV: 40%
- Price: $35
- Known for its smooth and complex flavor profile, Hetman Elite is distilled multiple times for purity and uses corn and water from the Carpathian mountains.
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Ukrainian Spirit Vodka
- ABV: 40%
- Price: $25
- Offers a clean and crisp taste with notes of cereal, vanilla, and subtle spice, delivering a refreshing finish.
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Utopia Vodka
- ABV: 40%
- Price: $18
- A premium American vodka, crafted from corn and wheat, noted for its smoothness and versatility in cocktails.
For more information on these vodkas, visit Spyrt Worldwide and Ukrainian Spirit.