Basil Hayden, a boutique whiskey brand under Beam, has made notable changes to its product lineup and pricing strategy. The brand has announced that Basil Hayden Golden Rye will replace the previous Basil Hayden Malted Rye. This new expression maintains the same mash bill and proof, featuring tasting notes of toasted rye, warm spice, and delicate florals.

Along with the new name, there’s a shift in pricing aimed at appealing to consumers looking for more affordable options. The new pricing tiers were designed to better fit into the current market landscape.

The core expressions, Basil Hayden Bourbon and the newly introduced Basil Hayden Golden Rye, are now priced at $36.99. This marks a reduction compared to the former price of Basil Hayden Malted Rye, which was listed around $40-$50.

Basil Hayden also has a second tier that includes options like Basil Hayden Toast and Basil Hayden Dark Rye, priced at $49.99. This category seeks to encourage creativity in consumption. More expressions at this price point are expected to be introduced later this year, which previously hovered around the $50-$60 mark.

The premium tier, reserved for Basil Hayden 10-Year-Old Bourbon, remains at $84.99, the same as before.

The spokesperson for Basil Hayden highlighted that the restructuring aims to meet the needs of modern whiskey drinkers and provides them with a range of choices at varying price points. Other whiskey manufacturers are noting similar industry trends, with some indicating potential price adjustments in their product lines as companies adapt to shifts in consumer demand.

For more information, you can refer to the following links:

• Basil Hayden Overview
• Market Trends in Whiskey Pricing

Tito’s Handmade Vodka, renowned for its quality, is also notable for its philanthropic contributions to various scientific endeavors. Recently, a research paper on "exotic magnetic phases in 2D material" was partially funded by Love, Tito’s, the charity arm of the vodka brand. This funding underscores the company’s dedication to advancing scientific research, led by its founder Bert "Tito" Beveridge, who holds a degree in geology and geophysics.

Rather than just doling out vodka to researchers, Tito’s has been actively engaged in funding significant scientific research across a variety of disciplines. Dr. Sarah Everett, the Director of Global Impact and Research at Tito’s, explained that the company’s CHEERS initiative (Creating Hope and Elevating Emerging Research and Science) addresses critical issues including disease detection, environmental concerns, and innovative technologies.

From humble beginnings in vodka distillation—where Beveridge combined his passion for fresh ingredients with a scientific approach—the brand has grown to become an emblem of philanthropy. The initiative not only supports scientific research but also contributes to community services spanning food security, veteran assistance, and animal welfare.

So whether sipping a cocktail or enjoying a martini, patrons can take comfort in knowing their beverage is contributing to good causes and scientific advancement, even if it doesn’t necessarily make complex physics easier to digest.

Sunny Delight has introduced a new vodka seltzer flavor inspired by a popular gag from its iconic 1990s commercials: the "purple stuff." This idea pays homage to a memorable ad where kids opted to pass over a mysterious purple drink in favor of Sunny Delight’s orange and tangerine flavors, creating a nostalgic reference for adults today.

The latest addition, SunnyD Vodka Seltzer PURPLE, is a limited-time release that allows consumers to explore the infamous "purple stuff." Randi Jachino, the chief marketing officer of Harvest Hill Beverage Company, emphasized that while the purple drink was always seen as a mystery, it has now become a bold offering in the cooler.

Reactions on social media have been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing excitement about trying the new drink. Comments suggest that fans appreciate the modern twist on a classic brand joke designed for social gatherings like backyard hangouts and beach days.

The PURPLE seltzer has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 4.5%. It started hitting store shelves nationwide in April, priced at $9.99 for a four-pack. This addition follows the successful launch of SunnyD’s vodka seltzer line in March 2023, which combined the brand’s signature tangy flavors with vodka and seltzer.

For those familiar with the original marketing, the "purple stuff" has been an ongoing reference point, often associated with sugary fruit drinks like Kool-Aid, and has taken on a life of its own in brand lore. With this new product, Sunny Delight aims to spark fresh conversations and lighthearted debates about the drink’s legacy.

For interested shoppers, SunnyD Vodka Seltzer PURPLE can be found at various retailers across the country. For further details, visit the official SunnyD website.

Redemption Whiskey has recently announced a comprehensive refresh of its brand, introducing not only a new bottle design but also a reformulated bourbon. This revamped portfolio, rolling out nationwide, brings a notable increase in proof – now 92 compared to the previous 88 – for its core offerings, including Redemption Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Redemption High Rye Bourbon Whiskey, and Redemption Straight Rye Whiskey. The suggested retail price for each 750-milliliter bottle is set at $29.99.

The redesign follows a legal battle with Diageo over the shape of Redemption’s previous bottle, a case that concluded in February 2024 when the court ruled that the design diluted the trademark of Bulleit Frontier Whiskey. The new packaging features an eagle motif and updated label elements, marking a significant shift from the design that was contested in court.

In addition to the updated branding, the higher proof aims to enhance the bourbon’s flavor profile. Alan Kennedy, Master Blender at Redemption Whiskey, expressed that the increased proof allows for a fuller expression of the whiskey’s character, highlighting its vanilla, fruity, and floral notes while maintaining the balance of spice and smokiness that defines its style.

This relaunch coincides with efforts by parent company Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits to strengthen Redemption’s market position following its legal challenges. The brand has gained accolades recently, including recognition for its 18-year-old bourbon, which was named the third best whiskey of 2025. The redesigned bottles are already being shipped to retailers across the country, gradually replacing the previous inventory.

If you’re tired of standard Italian-American comfort food, a visit to Marinera Pizza in New York City might just redefine your expectations. They have crafted an extraordinary dish that promises to be the ultimate handheld meal experience. This creation goes beyond the traditional slice of pizza, presenting a colossal, sauce-laden, pasta-filled delight that’s set to captivate your taste buds.

The Unrivaled Preparation

The adventure begins with a soft, fresh round of pizza dough shaped into perfect triangles, forming the base of what can be described as a supercharged mini calzone. The layers are essential to this culinary masterpiece. First, a generous mound of shredded mozzarella cheese is added. Next, crispy, golden chicken cutlets are placed on top. But the magic continues with a hefty scoop of Penne alla Vodka—a true game changer, as real pasta is nestled inside the dough. This glorious creation is then enhanced with more vodka sauce, a sprinkle of grated parmesan, and another layer of mozzarella for good measure.

The Cooking Process

Witnessing the assembly of this dish is an experience in itself. As the skilled chefs fold the dough over the sumptuous filling, they expertly remove the excess and drizzle the entire roll with olive oil. It then takes a turn in the oven until it emerges golden-brown and bubbling—it’s a sight that can make anyone salivate.

Once sliced in half, the interior exposes a delightful cross-section of penne, melted cheese, and bright orange vodka sauce, creating a visual feast that precedes a sensory explosion of flavors upon the first bite.

Saucy Indulgence

As a tradition at Devour Power, they kindly request extra vodka sauce on the side. Dipping the crispy, carb-loaded roll into this rich sauce transforms the experience into something truly decadent. Each bite blends the crunch of the hearty dough, the savory snap of the fried chicken, and the creamy comfort of the pasta, making it a texture powerhouse. It’s unapologetically indulgent, messy, and utterly satisfying—all the elements of a perfect comfort dish.

A Culinary Must-Try

While NYC is synonymous with its pizza, Marinera Pizza pushes the boundaries of creativity with this creation, making it a must-try for anyone in the city. This is more than just a meal; it’s an unforgettable experience that requires an appetite and perhaps a stack of napkins. Prepare yourself for a culinary journey that you won’t want to miss.