Liquor-articles 1905

Brown-Forman, the owner of the Slane Irish Whiskey Distillery, has announced a temporary halt in production at the facility located in County Meath, Ireland. This decision reflects a broader trend in the whiskey market, where even prominent brands are feeling the effects of declining sales and shifting consumer demand.

The announcement was initially reported by Robb Report, which noted that the company emphasized the need for demand planning and production adjustments in line with market conditions. Despite the temporary closure, a spokesperson assured that there is a robust supply of aging whiskey, ensuring that Slane products will remain available to customers around the globe. The visitor center at Slane will stay open for tours and trade visits.

This pause in production coincides with a turbulent period for Brown-Forman. The company has faced challenges, including layoffs and lower spirits sales across its portfolio, which includes the well-known Jack Daniel’s brand. There have also been acquisition rumors surrounding the company, which has recently reduced operations at other distilleries including Scotland’s Glenglassaugh.

Slane Irish Whiskey has been a significant player in the Irish whiskey surge. Acquired by Brown-Forman in 2015, the company invested around $50 million in constructing a state-of-the-art distillery at the historic Slane Castle Estate. This estate is famous for its large concert events featuring global artists.

While the company has indicated that the current shutdown is temporary, it has also raised speculation about the duration. An employee’s LinkedIn post suggested that the distillery could be closed for several years, creating uncertainty about its future.

The whiskey industry as a whole is experiencing a cooling trend after years of rapid expansion. Companies are recalibrating production strategies as consumer preferences shift, inflation impacts spending, and sales of premium spirits decline. Even as Slane whiskey remains available for now, its production halt signals a significant moment for the brand and the overall Irish whiskey market, which was once characterized by unprecedented growth.

For enthusiasts of Irish whiskey, the continuation of Slane bottles in the market offers some comfort, but the future availability will be influenced by how the market stabilizes in response to evolving consumer preferences.

The 2026 ADI International Spirits Competition recently crowned TAIL PIPE Jalapeño Flavored Vodka from Wohlfert Craft Distilling as the World’s Best Flavored Vodka. This small-batch, 80 proof vodka, priced at $28.99, hails from Snohomish, Washington.

The American Distilling Institute hosted the competition, which featured over 1,000 entries evaluated by expert judges. TAIL PIPE not only won Double Gold but also earned Best of Category, showcasing its superiority in a fiercely competitive market.

Judges praised the vodka for its vivid jalapeño aroma and balanced flavor, highlighting its “delicate and well-managed” spice and a smooth texture. The reviews noted the vodka’s versatility; it’s ideal for crafting cocktails like Bloody Marys and espresso martinis, as well as pairing with tropical fruits, which complement jalapeño’s heat.

John Wohlfert, the distiller and owner of the craft distillery, expressed pride in this recognition, indicating it solidifies their reputation for producing bold and distinct spirits. Wohlfert Craft Distilling operates from the family’s property, creating an intimate atmosphere that is rare in the industry.

The influence of family history is significant in their products. The signature cocktail, Helluva Cocktail, combines CLUTCH Coffee Liqueur with TAIL PIPE Jalapeño Vodka and espresso, creating a unique drink with roots in the family’s Prohibition-era traditions.

Wohlfert attributes their success to the care and precision in crafting flavorful vodkas that stand out in a crowded industry. Winning such a prestigious title marks a pivotal achievement for the small distillery, ensuring they gain the attention of spirit enthusiasts globally.

Related Links:

• Wohlfert Craft Distilling
• American Distilling Institute

Five exceptional rums have been nominated for the title of World’s Best Aged Rum at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC), a key event in the spirits industry that garners much attention. Here’s a closer look at these notable contenders and their unique flavors.

1. Worthy Park, Select Rum (40% ABV, 750 ml. $31)

Worthy Park Estate in Jamaica has a rich history of rum production dating back to 1741. The Select Rum, typically aged for 4-6 years in ex-bourbon barrels, is celebrated for its vibrant profile. It features aromatic notes of ripe banana, molasses, baking spices, and hints of overripe mango. On the palate, it presents layers of tropical fruit, vanilla, caramel, and charred oak, finishing with a dry, fruity essence reminiscent of banana bread and clove.

2. Worthy Park, 109 Rum (54.5% ABV, 750 ml. $30)

A modern reinterpretation of overproof rum, the 109 Rum blends pot-still rums aged between 4 to 10 years. Its rich mahogany color indicates significant oak influence. The aromatic notes include molasses, cola syrup, and dried pineapple, combined with flavors of dark caramel and grilled banana. The intense high-proof character is balanced, providing a lasting finish with notes of nutmeg and black tea.

3. Diplomático, Planas Rum (47% ABV, 750 ml. $28)

Despite its clear presentation, Planas aged for up to 6 years in a mix of ex-bourbon, malt whisky, and sherry casks. The transparency is achieved by charcoal filtering for clarity. Aromatically, it delights with coconut cream, vanilla, and citrus zest. The tasting experience features white chocolate, toasted coconut, and caramelized sugar, culminating in a refined finish that lingers with sweet floral notes.

4. Kaniché Rum, Fiji Islands (40% ABV, 750 ml. $37)

Originating from Fiji, Kaniché Rum undergoes a unique aging process in ex-bourbon barrels followed by finishing in cognac casks in France. The result is a spirit rich with tropical aromas, displaying notes of banana, honeycomb, and spices. Its full-bodied profile includes flavors of vanilla, caramelized pineapple, and seasoned oak, leading to a long finish with hints of fig and leather.

5. Planteray Rum, Xaymaca Special Dry (43% ABV, 750 ml. $30)

Named after the indigenous term for Jamaica, Xaymaca is a tribute to 100% Jamaican pot still rum. This blend of distillates showcases the quintessential funky character associated with Jamaican rums. The aroma is dominated by green banana and grilled pineapple, delivering a robust palate with notes of citrus, burnt sugar, and leather, while finishing complexly with spice and tropical fruit.

These five rums, each with unique strengths, demonstrate the robust flavor profiles and oak influences from their aging processes. They can elevate both cocktails and sipping experiences, appealing to a wide range of rum enthusiasts.

Wohlfert’s TAIL PIPE Jalapeño Flavored Vodka has been crowned the Best Flavored Vodka at the 2026 ADI International Spirits Competition. This impressive accolade highlights the small craft distillery located in Snohomish, Washington, which has produced this distinctive spicy vodka at a retail price of $28.99 for a 750 ml bottle.

Judged blind by industry professionals from over 1,000 entries globally, TAIL PIPE not only won Double Gold but also secured Best of Category honors—a significant triumph amid fierce competition. The vodka captivated judges with its vibrant jalapeño aroma, balanced spice, and fine texture, receiving high scores between 94 and 95 points.

One panel praised its “well-defined jalapeño nose," referring to its “green, fresh, and invigorating” characteristics while emphasizing the precise management of chili flavor alongside a smooth vodka base. This balance of heat and flavor demonstrates the careful craftsmanship behind the product, ensuring neither too much burn nor an underwhelming taste.

John Wohlfert, the distillery’s owner and master distiller, expresses pride in this recognition, noting the honor it brings to their bold and distinctive spirits. Wohlfert Craft Distilling operates from his family’s property, making their spirits with an intimate touch that sets them apart.

The TAIL PIPE vodka is not just for sipping—it’s versatile in cocktails. It’s particularly recommended for Bloody Marys, espresso martinis, and tropical mixes, pairing well with bright flavors like pineapple and lime.

Wohlfert’s dedication to flavor is evident in their other offerings, including CLUTCH Coffee Liqueur. They’ve crafted a cocktail called the Helluva Cocktail combining both these spirits, connecting family heritage with modern flavor.

This award solidifies Wohlfert Craft Distilling’s place in the craft spirits landscape, showcasing how innovative flavor profiles can surprise and delight vodka enthusiasts while affirming the quality that can emerge from smaller, less-recognized producers.

For more details on the TAIL PIPE Jalapeño Vodka, visit Wohlfert Craft Distilling.

Heaven Hill Distillery has released a limited-edition 13-year-old bourbon, the Heaven Hill Deatsville 13-Year-Old, highlighting the significance of the Deatsville rickhouse where it was aged. This release is part of a tribute to the historic site, which is transitioning out of active service for aging bourbon and moving to a role that focuses solely on inspecting barrels.

The Deatsville site has a storied history dating back to 1844 and was once the home of the T.W. Samuels Distillery. Acquired by Heaven Hill in the 1980s, it features buildings constructed shortly after Prohibition, which are unique for their tiered roofs that enhance air circulation, giving the bourbon aged there distinctive flavor profiles. In fact, the late master distiller Parker Beam held the site in high regard before his passing in 2017.

The new bourbon, distilled using Heaven Hill’s standard mashbill of 78% corn, 10% rye, and 12% malted barley, was crafted from just 17 barrels selected from the third floor of Rickhouse AA. It is bottled at 109 proof, which allows for the sweeter flavors to stand out, including notes of oak, peanut brittle, and baked fruits.

Tasting notes reveal a buttery texture on the palate with hints of caramel and vanilla, and a soft spice that lingers into a smooth finish. Despite its high proof, the bourbon drinks more gently, akin to a cream liqueur.

To acquire a bottle, whiskey enthusiasts can participate in the “Inside the Rickhouse: The Legacy of Deatsville” tour for $219, which combines tours and tastings with the chance to purchase the bourbon. The bottle has a suggested retail price of $199.

Limited releases like this are often highly sought after, as evidenced by comparisons to other niche bourbons that explore the aging process in various rickhouses. The Deatsville release, noted for its small production run, sets a high bar for future offerings from Heaven Hill, ensuring it remains a significant part of Kentucky bourbon’s evolving narrative. For more information, you can visit the Mint Julep Tours portal.

When Jake Norris observes the current whiskey culture in America, he feels a tinge of disappointment. Many enthusiasts have shifted towards collecting rare bottles instead of enjoying the spirits themselves, a trend to which he contributed during his time at renowned distilleries like Stranahan’s and Laws Whiskey House. He helped initiate the sought-after Stanahan’s Snowflake program, where fans would camp out for a chance to snag limited-release bottles, often trading them for significantly higher prices in the secondary market.

However, Norris believes this trend detracts from the true essence of whiskey. "What good is a record if you don’t play it? What good is a painting if there’s a tarp on it?" he mused. Whiskey, he argues, should be celebrated and savored rather than relegated to a shelf.

To inspire a shift towards drinking rather than hoarding, Norris has launched The Curated Barrel Project. His goal is to release eight unique whiskey expressions over the next two years, each made by aging original bourbon recipes in various casks to create distinct flavors. To encourage enthusiasts to enjoy these releases, he plans to host chef-driven pop-up events and offer accompanying zines with each bottle.

The first bourbon release from this venture, titled The Control, was introduced this month. Unlike future expressions, this one is not cask-finished, intended to showcase the bourbon’s original recipe consisting of 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley. Aged for seven years, around 400 bottles are available for purchase.

Norris’s journey with The Curated Barrel Project began in 2024 when he found himself with 30 barrels of aging whiskey. Initially distilled in 2019 while he was consulting for another company, the bourbon underwent a pause due to the pandemic, leaving him with spirits that now had matured longer than anticipated.

Upcoming releases will be aged in various casks, including Cognac and Port barrels, enhancing their flavor profiles. In parallel to The Curated Barrel Project, Norris is also finalizing a distillery in Arvada, separate from his current releases but set to produce whiskey in the future. This new distillery will serve as the venue for the pop-up dinners he plans to host.

On May 28, Norris will welcome chef Manny Barella, a former “Top Chef” contestant, for a four-course pairing event. This unique gathering encourages guests to bring their own plates and cutlery, fostering a sense of connection and community among attendees.

With the added element of a zine—featuring a QR code linking to a custom playlist and Norris’s artwork—The Curated Barrel Project aims to shift focus from a collection mentality to a more immersive experience with whiskey. "I thought, why can’t whiskey be like that?" explains Norris, echoing his nostalgia for cherished memories tied to the act of enjoying music.

The first batch of The Control is available for $99, alongside tickets to the pop-up dinner priced at $250 per person. Additionally, memberships are offered at $800, ensuring holders receive a bottle from each batch and an exclusive bonus bottle. For more details, visit The Curated Barrel Project.

When deciding between vodka and tequila, many people ponder which spirit might be the healthier option for their cocktails. Although neither liquor is chosen primarily for health benefits, there are several factors to consider.

Tequila, especially when crafted from 100% agave, is noted for its low sugar content. According to nutrition experts, agave contains fructans that could support gut health and help manage blood lipids and glucose. These compounds are linked to feelings of fullness, which may help reduce hunger, and they also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

However, experts caution that while the agave plant may provide some health benefits, research hasn’t definitively shown that these effects carry through after distillation. Nonetheless, tequila production is heavily regulated, minimizing potential pesticide exposure.

On the other hand, vodka is often lower in calories than tequila and can be mixed easily with low-calorie drinks. Its neutral flavor allows for versatile drink options. Still, as vodka is generally derived from grains or potatoes, it lacks significant nutritional value.

It’s critical to remember that both tequila and vodka carry common risks associated with alcohol consumption. Alcohol acts as a depressant, which can slow down the central nervous system, so moderation is key, especially for individuals managing mental health conditions.

When considering the health impacts of tequila’s higher fructose content, experts note that over time, it can contribute to insulin resistance and increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, although the sweetness level of tequila often mirrors that of vodka.

Ultimately, the healthiness of either spirit largely depends on the mixers involved. A sugary margarita mix with tequila could negate any health benefits, while a fresh lime juice and soda water combination presents a lighter option. The same logic applies to vodka, where pairing it with tonic or sparkling water offers a more calorie-efficient choice.

In conclusion, whether tequila or vodka is a healthier pick depends largely on personal preference and mixology. Both spirits should be consumed in moderation, keeping in mind what they are mixed with, to maintain a balance between enjoyment and health.

Bardstown Bourbon Company has introduced a revolutionary whiskey, the Distillery Reserve Mars Single Malt Japanese Blend, set to launch on May 29. This innovative spirit is the result of a collaboration with Mars Whisky and showcases a unique aging process where Kentucky bourbon and Japanese single malts from Mars’ distilleries age together in the same barrel.

This approach differs significantly from traditional finishes, where one spirit influences another primarily in the final stages of aging. By co-aging the whiskies for a full year, they integrate deeply, resulting in a product that reflects the richness of both Kentucky bourbon and Japanese whisky. Dan Callaway, Bardstown’s master blender, emphasized that this method is about “true integration,” creating a whiskey that offers complex flavors shaped by both traditions.

The Japanese whiskies involved are no ordinary spirits; they include the Komagatake single malt, which previously matured in Umeshu plum liqueur barrels, and Tsunuki whisky aged in rare Sakura cherry wood casks. These distinct characteristics blend with Kentucky bourbons aged for 10 to 16 years to produce flavors of caramelized plums, roasted malt, vanilla bean, and toasted oak, culminating in a sophisticated finish.

This release, priced at $99.99 for a 375mL bottle and bottled at 109.8 proof, will be available in limited quantities exclusive to Bardstown Bourbon’s gift shop and Louisville tasting room. If this whiskey quickly sells out, enthusiasts can take heart knowing another whiskey blending American and Japanese traditions is already aging in Japan, hinting at an exciting future for this cross-cultural innovation in whiskey-making.

ALB Vodka, produced in Albany, New York, has recently formed a partnership with JSX, known for its premium air travel services. This collaboration means that ALB Vodka will now be served on all JSX flights, enhancing the semi-private airline’s in-flight offerings.

Brian Grimsley, the National Sales Director for ALB Vodka, emphasized the alignment between ALB and JSX, stating that both brands cater to travelers seeking a premium experience without compromises. JSX, which operates approximately 175 charter flights each day, focuses on providing a streamlined and luxurious travel experience. In 2025, JSX was recognized as the No. 1 Domestic Airline by Travel + Leisure for its customer-focused service.

Ben Kaufman, Senior Director of Customer Experience at JSX, pointed out that vodka is the most requested spirit on their flights, highlighting the importance of featuring a quality brand like ALB. He noted that both companies share a disruptive approach in their respective industries, attracting customers who demand superior quality.

This partnership comes as ALB Vodka is rapidly expanding its market presence, having been awarded the 2025 Spirit of the Year and Vodka of the Year by USA Spirits Ratings. With its distribution in over 5,000 locations nationwide, including high-end restaurants, hotels, and major retailers, ALB Vodka is positioned as a prominent player in the premium spirits market.

ALB Vodka is now available on all JSX flights as part of their complimentary beverage service. The release reflects ALB’s push into premium travel and its commitment to delivering a high-quality product.

For further details, visit ALB Vodka.

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.