After five years of meticulous research, Planteray Rum is set to launch its latest product, the Mister Fogg Navy Rum Sail N°2. This new navy-style rum, reminiscent of the spirit once rationed to the British Royal Navy until 1970, exemplifies tradition with a modern twist.

This rum is crafted using a blend of rums sourced from renowned regions such as Barbados, Trinidad, Guyana, Mauritius, and Jamaica. Following distillation, it undergoes aging in ex-bourbon barrels on its Caribbean island of origin. In a unique nod to maritime history, it’s then transported across the Atlantic for further maturation at sea—echoing the era when rum rations would roar with the waves while on board ships. Upon arriving in France, the rum is finished in seasoned oak barrels.

With an impressive alcohol content of 55.7% ABV, Mister Fogg Navy Rum Sail N°2 offers a rich profile that features notes of molasses candy, dark chocolate, toasted vanilla, dried fruits, and a blend of island spices.

This limited-edition rum will be available at select retailers starting this month, priced at approximately $37.99 for a 700ml bottle.

The Bloody Mary is a beloved classic cocktail known for its savory base of tomato juice and vodka. This drink has evolved since the 1930s, leading to various creative interpretations that reflect different cultures and tastes. Here are some standout variations of this iconic cocktail:

1. Classic Bloody Mary: The original recipe combines vodka, tomato juice, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce, creating a well-balanced drink. It can be customized with garnishes such as celery, lemon wedges, and olives.

2. Bloody Caesar: A Canadian favorite, this variation swaps tomato juice for Clamato, a mix of clam broth and tomato juice. Served in a celery-salt-rimmed glass, it offers a unique umami flavor.

3. Kimchi Bloody Mary: This adventurous twist incorporates kimchi brine, adding a spicy and fermented zing that enhances the traditional tomato base.

4. Bloody Maria: By replacing vodka with tequila, the Bloody Maria introduces a smoky profile, perfectly accented with lime and savoury elements.

5. Miso Mary Libertine: Featuring miso paste for an umami flavor boost, this version combines traditional Bloody Mary ingredients with silky richness.

6. Bloody Bull: This hearty take adds beef broth to the classic recipe, providing a robust flavor profile and transforming the drink into something akin to a savory soup.

7. Red Snapper: Utilizing gin instead of vodka, this cocktail presents an herbal twist, refreshing the palate with botanical notes.

8. Michelada: Incorporating beer, the Michelada combines spicy tomato juice with lime, creating a refreshing option perfect for warm weather.

These layers of flavor keep the spirit of the Bloody Mary alive while inviting drinkers to explore new dimensions. Whether enjoyed as a brunch staple or a late-night remedy, these variations cater to diverse tastes and preferences.

The renowned Caledonia Spirits, known for its Barr Hill Gin, has introduced a new offering: Phyllis Vermont Rye Whiskey. This rye whiskey is crafted using local grains, comprising 84% winter rye and 16% barley, and is aged for at least ten years. Caledonia Spirits handles the entire process—distillation, maturation, and bottling—on-site.

According to Ryan Christiansen, President and Head Distiller, Phyllis Rye Whiskey stands out with its complex flavor profile, highlighting rye spice, toasted oak, dried cherries, and vanilla beans, culminating in a sweet and spicy finish that leaves drinkers wanting more. Christiansen emphasized their commitment to sustainability and quality, stating, “Phyllis won’t be a part of that” market trend of generic whiskeys, instead opting for quality and local sourcing.

The whiskey is being launched with anticipation following over a decade of preparation, and it promises to resonate well with those who appreciate craft spirits. It’s available for purchase online and select retailers, retailing at around $55 for a 750ml bottle.

The World Whiskey Society is making waves by launching its first-ever flavored whiskey, the Doc Holliday Huckleberry Edition. This unique offering is inspired by the famous character Doc Holliday, known for his catchphrase in the film "Tombstone."

This new whiskey is a 70-proof release that combines traditional whiskey flavors with hints of juicy huckleberries. Upon tasting, drinkers can expect an aroma of blackberry jam, toasted vanilla beans, and oak, while the palate centers on sweet berries, honey, and graham crackers. The finish is described as mellow and smooth with flavors of ripe berries, vanilla, and oak.

Alex Kogan, CEO of the World Whiskey Society, noted that this expression pays tribute to the adventurous spirit of the Wild West but comes with a modern twist. He emphasized that the master blender created a classic whiskey profile that beautifully balances the tartness of fresh huckleberries with the signature smoothness of the Doc Holliday series.

For whiskey enthusiasts wanting to enjoy this new flavor, the Doc Holliday Huckleberry Edition is available for $45 for a 750ml bottle, both online at the World Whiskey Society’s shop and at select retailers across the United States.

For more details, visit World Whiskey Society.

Jim Beam will halt whiskey production at its main distillery for one year, commencing in late December 2025. This decision is part of an initiative to undergo significant renovations and updates to its facilities, aimed at enhancing sustainability and efficiency in production.

The distillery emphasized that this pause will not affect the availability of Jim Beam products in the market, as they have sufficient stock to meet consumer demands during the shutdown. This strategic move is seen as a proactive step toward maintaining the quality and legacy of the brand, ensuring that they continue to meet the high standards expected by whiskey drinkers.

As the production ceases, the distillery plans to invest in state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure improvements. These changes will help Jim Beam adapt to evolving industry standards and consumer expectations in the years ahead.

For more information, visit NBC News.

One of Kentucky’s major bourbon producers, Jim Beam, announced plans to cease whiskey production at its Clermont distillery starting January 1, 2026. This decision is seen as a response to the current challenges facing the industry, particularly a significant surplus of whiskey coupled with a decline in domestic demand.

In a statement provided to the Lexington Herald Leader, Jim Beam explained that they continually assess production levels to align with consumer demand. As a part of their strategy, they will pause distillation at their primary distillery located on the James B. Beam campus, while still maintaining production at their smaller craft distillery in Clermont and the larger Booker Noe distillery in Boston.

While the main distillery will not distill whiskey during this period, bottling and warehousing operations will remain active at Clermont. The visitor center at the James B. Beam campus will continue to operate, offering visitors the full experience and dining options at The Kitchen Table.

Kentucky’s bourbon industry has experienced a significant downturn, with production slashed by over 55 million proof gallons—representing a 28% decrease through August—marking the lowest levels of production since 2018. A boycott of American spirits by Canada, initiated in response to tariffs during the Trump administration, has further impacted the market, with sales to Canada dropping by more than 60% through October. Despite these challenges, Jim Beam has yet to issue any layoff notices under Kentucky’s WARN Act.

For more information, you can read the full article here.