In 2023, Michter’s whiskey, a brand hailing from Kentucky, secured its place in history by being named the first American brand to top the Drinks International list of The World’s Most Admired Whiskies. This accolade marked a significant milestone, showcasing the growing prominence of American whiskey in a market that has traditionally favored Scotch and Japanese spirits.

Fast forward to 2025, Michter’s achievements only continued to grow as it was honored as the World’s Most Admired Whiskey for the third consecutive year. This recognition comes from a panel consisting of 100 independent drinks buyers, journalists, bartenders, and whiskey experts from over 20 countries. Participants were tasked with ranking their ten most admired brands based on criteria such as quality, consistency, price-to-quality ratio, and the strength of branding.

Alongside Michter’s, Maker’s Mark was the only other American brand to feature in the top ten list, which is dominated by global names in the whiskey industry. The top ten for 2025 includes:

1. Michter’s
2. The Yamazaki
3. Hibiki
4. Ardbeg
5. Compass Box
6. Maker’s Mark
7. Bruichladdich
8. The Macallan
9. Hakushu
10. Laphroaig

Michter’s legacy traces back to the 18th century in Pennsylvania, initially as Shenk’s Distillery, later rebranded as Bomberger’s. After facing bankruptcy in 1989, the trademark was acquired by Joe Magliocco for about $250 in the late 1990s. In 2015, production shifted to a new facility in Shively, Kentucky, located just south of Louisville.

The brand now offers a diverse lineup that includes Kentucky straight bourbon, rye, sour mash, and American whiskeys, with special releases such as the Michter’s Legacy Series and limited production age-stated whiskeys. Michter’s is also famed for its commitment to a lower barrel entry proof of just 103, enhancing flavor while balancing production costs.

Matt Magliocco, Michter’s Executive Vice President, expressed his gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the honor of being acknowledged among so many esteemed distilleries and talented individuals in the whiskey industry. Additionally, Michter’s operates the Fort Nelson Distillery in Louisville, featuring a small distillation setup and a popular cocktail bar, and is developing a property in Springfield, Kentucky, for estate-grown grain.

Learn more about Michter’s at their official website.

Founded in 1880 in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, Ron del Barrilito is the island’s oldest rum distillery. Although the surrounding landscape has changed significantly, the distillery remains a testament to time-honored craftsmanship. Ron del Barrilito has persistently adhered to its original recipes and processes, solidifying its place in the spirits industry despite lacking the widespread name recognition of larger brands.

Historically, Puerto Rico was a hub for sugar cane plantations, with rum production playing a vital role in its economy. However, the industry underwent challenges, particularly during U.S. Prohibition, when Ron del Barrilito had to cease operations for 13 years. Despite these setbacks, the brand has thrived by staying true to its roots.

Hacienda Santa Ana, the distillery’s home, is steeped in history. Don Pedro Fernández, inspired by European cognac makers, crafted the original formulation, which led to the famous Three Stars expression. The site not only houses the distillery but also preserves relics from the brand’s legacy, including original furnishings and awards.

A visit to Ron del Barrilito offers a glimpse into the seamless blend of history and modern innovation. The distillery, equipped with updated technology, preserves traditional aging methods using oloroso sherry casks. Visitors can participate in mixology classes and tasting sessions, showcasing the rich flavors of the distillery’s offerings, including the limited-edition Five Stars aged up to 35 years.

One noteworthy aspect of the distillery tour is the legendary barrel known as La Doña, casked in 1952 and sealed with a promise to open it upon Puerto Rico’s independence. This narrative encapsulates the distillery’s commitment to its craft and its deep-rooted connection to the culture and history of Puerto Rico. Ron del Barrilito is seen as more than just a product; it’s a symbol of resilience and heritage for the island and its people.

If you’re a fan of vodka sauce, you know that the perfect blend can elevate any pasta dish. In search of the best jarred options, I put several brands to the test, seeking that ideal combination of flavor, texture, and the unmistakable pink hue that characterizes a good vodka sauce.

Testing Method

I chose a variety of well-known and lesser-known brands to see how they stacked up. To remove any bias, my husband and I conducted a blind taste test. We prepared warm rigatoni and topped each serving with one of the sauces before mixing to ensure an even distribution. Each sauce was evaluated based on appearance, consistency, flavor, and overall preference.

Rankings of Vodka Sauces

1. Prego

   • Prego’s Creamy Vodka Sauce was the standout winner. Its rich and ultra-creamy texture, along with the perfect pink color and a subtle vodka flavor, made it a great choice for busy weeknights.

2. Di Bruno Bros.

   • This sauce caught my eye with its herb-focused flavor profile while staying true to the classic vodka sauce appearance. Made with fewer ingredients, it offers a refreshing herbaceous twist.

3. Carbone

   • With a sweet tomato flavor, Carbone’s sauce is delicious but leans more toward marinara than vodka sauce. Some assembly is required since the jar suggests adding cream for the full effect.

4. Silver Palate

   • Spicy and creamy, this sauce met expectations with its rich consistency and perfect adherence to pasta. However, its peppery flavor might not suit everyone’s palate.

5. Bertolli

   • While it looked like a vodka sauce, Bertolli’s thin consistency and bland flavor underwhelmed compared to other options, making it a disappointing fifth place.

6. Rao’s

   • Rao’s boasts a bold flavor that unfortunately doesn’t quite fit the vodka sauce category. Its texture is commendable, being thick enough to cling to pasta, but it lacks the essential vodka notes.

7. Trader Joe’s

   • Despite high hopes, Trader Joe’s vodka sauce was a letdown. Its more marinara-like flavor and thin, chunky texture landed it at the bottom of the list.

Conclusion

For a busy weeknight dinner, Prego is the best jarred vodka sauce to keep on hand, offering a delicious and creamy experience that rivals homemade options. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something different, Di Bruno Bros. and Carbone provide unique flavors worth exploring.

The nightlife in St. Lucia is a vibrant fusion of the island’s laid-back charm and lively atmosphere. Bars range from casual beachfront spots to upscale lounges, creating a diverse scene where visitors can immerse themselves in local culture and flavors.

Best for Upscale Cocktails

The Living Room
Located at the Harbor Club, this plush lounge offers a stylish escape with a menu highlighting unique cocktails like Pink Paradise and Velvet Crush. Enjoy live music during Thursday happy hour, making it a popular gathering spot.
Website: theharborclub.com

La Vie Lounge
This trendy venue features sea views and an energetic atmosphere. Signature drinks like the Lucian Sour make it a must-visit, complemented by scrumptious bites.
Website: lavielounge758.com

S.A. of Wines
Offering private wine tastings in a charming setting, Hisley Jean transforms the perception of St Lucian beverages. Reservations are necessary for this exclusive experience.
Contact: 001 758 728 7292

Best for Great Views

Irie Bar
A relaxed destination just steps from the beach, Irie Bar is known for its unpretentious vibe and local beers, offering a true taste of St. Lucia.
Contact: 001 758 726 8921; Instagram

Rum Therapy Bar & Treatment Centre
Popular with cruise passengers, this bar features inventive cocktails and regular entertainment, creating a fun atmosphere that brims with local spirit.
Contact: 001 758 729 2377; Instagram

On the Rocks
With a vibrant ambiance overlooking the bay, this bar serves cocktails alongside a menu of classic pub food, making it a favorite for late-night revelers.
Website: ontherocksslu.com

Best Sports Bars

Café 758
Offering a lively atmosphere with music and sports broadcasts, Café 758 is popular for its delicious burgers and continuous flow of rum punch.
Contact: 001 758 713 6161; Facebook

Valelse Sports Bar & Soup Kitchen
Known for its warm community vibe, this bar features HD screens for sports and hearty local dishes, perfect for a spirited game night.
Contact: 001 758 451 4033; Facebook

Bars with Local Music

Frydays
Set in the heart of Gros Islet’s Friday Night Street Party, Frydays offers a lively spot for dining and entertainment, featuring live music and a festive menu.
Contact: 001 758 715 0102; Instagram

Glamity’s Restaurant & Bar
For an authentic St Lucian nightlife experience filled with local food and music, Glamity’s is the go-to destination, especially during its lively weekend events.
Contact: 001 758 451 4033; Instagram

Conclusion

Each bar in St. Lucia offers something unique, from upscale cocktails and breathtaking views to spirited sports atmospheres and vibrant music scenes. Whether you’re seeking a sophisticated night out or a casual beach vibe, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you on this enchanting island.

In 2023, Michter’s, the Kentucky-based whiskey brand, made history by becoming the first American name to take the top spot on the Drinks International list of The World’s Most Admired Whiskies. This achievement highlighted a significant moment for American whiskey, traditionally dominated by Scotch and Japanese brands.

Fast forward to 2025, and Michter’s secured this accolade for the third consecutive year, further cementing its status. The selection process involved a panel of 100 independent global drinks buyers, journalists, bartenders, and whiskey experts from over 20 countries. They ranked brands based on the quality and consistency of whiskeys, price-to-quality ratio, and the strength of branding and marketing.

In the 2025 list, Michter’s was accompanied by Maker’s Mark as the only American brands in the top 10. Here’s the complete list of the top 10 whiskies:

1. Michter’s
2. The Yamazaki
3. Hibiki
4. Ardbeg
5. Compass Box
6. Maker’s Mark
7. Bruichladdich
8. The Macallan
9. Hakushu
10. Laphroaig

Michter’s roots can be traced back to the 18th century in Pennsylvania, originally known as Shenk’s Distillery before being rebranded in the 1950s. Although the original distillery ceased operations in 1989, Joe Magliocco revived the brand in the late 1990s by acquiring the trademark and establishing new production in Kentucky.

Initially sourcing whiskey from other distilleries, Michter’s began its own distillation in 2015 at a new facility in Shively, Kentucky. The brand’s offerings include a range of bourbons and ryes, along with limited editions like the Michter’s Legacy Series, which features exclusive releases such as Bomberger’s Bourbon and Shenk’s Homestead Sour Mash.

Michter’s also produces a line of age-stated whiskeys that are only offered when deemed exceptional, with releases of 10-year bourbons, coveted 20-year bourbons, and the limited Michter’s Celebration Sour Mash.

Matt Magliocco, Michter’s Executive Vice President, expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “It’s literally a dream to have Michter’s recognized as the World’s Most Admired Whiskey… it’s extremely humbling to be acknowledged by our peers across the industry.”

In addition to the Shively distillery, Michter’s operates the Fort Nelson Distillery in downtown Louisville and a 205-acre property in Springfield, Kentucky, which is developing estate-grown grain.

In the late 1990s, the bourbon industry faced significant struggles, compounded by falling popularity due to the rising prominence of vodka and tequila. The tipping point came on November 7, 1996, when a catastrophic storm hit Bardstown, Kentucky, leading to a devastating fire at the Heaven Hill distillery that destroyed their facility and several warehouses, taking out approximately 15% of their whiskey stocks and costing around $30 million.

Years later, Heaven Hill has returned to the forefront of the bourbon scene with the launch of their new state-of-the-art Heaven Hill Springs Distillery, which now produces 1,500 barrels daily, with potential to triple that output. This resurrection comes during another challenging phase for the bourbon industry, marked by economic uncertainties and changing consumer behaviors, especially among younger generations.

In commemoration of this new chapter, Heaven Hill introduced a special whiskey, the Master Distillers Unity. This limited-edition bottle honors the legacy of the distillery, showcasing what is believed to be the last surviving barrel from the old Bardstown distillery, laid down in 1991 by Parker Beam, a notable figure in Heaven Hill’s history.

The Master Distillers Unity blend consists of four unique bourbons, including a 14-year old from Beam, and an 8-year and 6-year old bourbon from his successors. Bottled at 107 proof, it features the hallmark Heaven Hill mashbill of 78% corn, 12% malted barley, and 10% rye.

A mere 4,000 bottles were produced, blending history and expertise into a complex flavor profile that includes rich butterscotch notes complemented by walnuts and milk chocolate, with a smooth, balanced finish. Priced at $225 and exclusively available at the new distillery, collectors may hesitate to open a bottle, but its delectable taste truly deserves to be savored. Visitors can enjoy the distillery’s visitor center and bar while picking up a bottle for their collection.

Eugene’s Yardy Rum Bar has gained nationwide recognition, being named one of the New York Times’ 50 best restaurants in the U.S. The restaurant, which features West Indian and Caribbean cuisine, started as a pop-up in 2020 and later operated as a food cart before settling in its current location at 837 Lincoln St. in downtown Eugene in January 2024.

Chef and owner Isaiah Martinez has expressed pride in his restaurant’s mission to educate patrons about Caribbean culture through food. He views culinary experiences as a way to bridge cultural gaps.

This accolade is not the first time Yardy Rum Bar has garnered attention; earlier in the year, Martinez was recognized as a semifinalist for the prestigious James Beard Award for Best Chef: Northwest & Pacific. The rush of customers following the Beard nomination prepared his staff for the recent uptick in business that comes with this latest honor.

Martinez noted that they experienced a significant surge in customer traffic post-nomination, describing the bustling atmosphere as "everyday was a Saturday for a couple of months." As the restaurant heads into a slower season, this recognition will help attract more customers and maintain the quality service that regular patrons expect.

For more information, visit Yardy Rum Bar and view the New York Times restaurant list.