Liquor-articles 1739

I recently found myself battling a bout of flu, which muted my palate significantly. As a result, my spirits had less impact than usual, leaving me with a drier January than I’m accustomed to. Although I’ve historically not enjoyed the concept of Dry January, the downtime led me to delve into a couple of interesting books about spirits, perfect for getting a taste of the world of alcohol even if I’m not partaking.

First on my reading list is The History of Whiskey in 100 Bottles, Barrels, and More, authored by Robin Robinson. This book presents a casual yet comprehensive overview of whiskey’s evolution, starting from the Neolithic era all the way to modern times. Robinson’s storytelling style delivers bite-sized chunks of information, making it accessible and enjoyable for readers. The history of whiskey is combined with fascinating anecdotes, including how the introduction of the malt tax in 1697 forced Irish distillers to innovate their grain use.

The second book, The Rum Never Sets: 300 Years Of Royal Navy & London Dock Rum, offers a deep dive into the history of British Royal Navy rum and the London docks where it was stored. Written by Matt Pietrek and Alexandre Gabriel, this book reveals the complexities surrounding the daily rum rations for sailors and the sophisticated rum trade that took place at the London docks. Pietrek is known as a leading expert in the field of rum, and his meticulous research uncovers the origins and blending practices that defined Navy rum.

While reading these books might be a good companion to the dry January experience, the tales they tell of rich histories and unique practices in whiskey and rum will undoubtedly be even more enjoyable with a drink in hand once February rolls around.

For those interested, you can explore:

• The History Of Whiskey
• The Rum Never Sets
• Planteray Rum

Winter Storm to Bring Heavy Snow and Ice This Weekend Across Southern and Eastern U.S.

A significant winter weather event is forecasted to impact large portions of the southern and eastern United States this weekend. Meteorologists are warning of heavy snowfall and ice accumulation that could create hazardous travel conditions and potential power outages.

According to the National Weather Service, regions from Texas through to the Carolinas can expect substantial snowfall, while areas along the Gulf Coast may experience freezing rain. Advisories and warnings have already been issued for several states, indicating the seriousness of the impending storm.

Residents in these areas are advised to prepare accordingly, ensuring they have necessary supplies and a plan in place in case of power outages. The storm is expected to begin affecting communities late Saturday, with the most severe conditions predicted on Sunday.

For ongoing updates and detailed forecasts, individuals are encouraged to monitor local weather reports and stay informed about safety recommendations.

Store-bought vodka sauces can often feel like a compromise for those who pride themselves on their homemade recipes. However, after tasting and ranking nine different store-bought options, it turns out there is a surprising winner that delivers quality flavors at an affordable price. The standout is Botticelli’s vodka sauce, which not only earns rave reviews but is made with authentic Italian ingredients sourced directly from their farms in Sicily and Parma.

This sauce is crafted with care, combining hand-picked tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil, Parmigiano Reggiano, and Pecorino Romano, mixed into a rich and creamy base with a hint of vodka. The texture is commendably homestyle, boasting bits of tomato and a balanced blend of seasonings such as pepper and oregano to elevate the sauce’s flavors.

Fans of Botticelli’s vodka sauce are readily expressing their love on platforms like Amazon, where customers note that the sauce tastes just like homemade and enhances various dishes. Many reviewers recommend using it to upgrade their pizza, lasagna, and spaghetti. Users emphasize the quality of the chunky tomatoes, which contribute to the sauce’s authentic taste.

For those looking to add a personal touch to their store-bought vodka sauce, there are easy ways to enhance its flavor. Adding a splash of heavy cream or fresh herbs can make a significant difference. Other delicious options include incorporating garlic, red pepper flakes for heat, or even some protein like sautéed pancetta.

In summary, while there are many options available, Botticelli’s vodka sauce not only ranks at the top for taste but also provides a comforting, ready-made alternative for busy cooks who don’t want to sacrifice flavor for convenience.

For more information on buying Botticelli’s vodka sauce, check it out here.

Local tribute band The Whiskey Fund is set to perform an eclectic mix of classic hits on January 23, 2026, at the Wildwood Saloon in Iowa City. The band features a lineup that includes Sean Seaton, Dave Rosazza, Ben Schmidt, Bill Shannon, and John Edwards, who collectively bring a diverse sound of rock, soul, funk, and R&B to the stage.

Seaton, one of the band’s musicians, shared that they aim to create a varied musical experience, often mixing well-known tracks with deeper cuts. Their set list is enriched with influences from artists like Steely Dan, Stevie Wonder, and Elton John, the latter of whom Seaton credits for inspiring him to learn piano. The band also includes songs from genres like Americana and blues, showcasing each member’s unique musical preferences.

Seaton, who works as a tech director at Solon Community School District, expressed his passion for music and live shows. He reminisced about attending iconic concerts, including Paul McCartney and The Eagles, emphasizing the importance of experiencing live performances, especially as artists age. The Whiskey Fund provides a platform for local music lovers to enjoy a laid-back atmosphere where they can reminisce through the sounds of their favorite era.

The band’s name, "The Whiskey Fund," originated from a lighthearted discussion among members about what to call their tip jar, which some jokingly contributed to with both cash and actual whiskey bottles. With their unique name and relaxed vibe, The Whiskey Fund is not just about performing; it’s a guilty pleasure that allows them to connect with their audience and indulge in their love of music.

Event Details:

• What: The Whiskey Fund Performance
• When: 7 p.m. Friday, January 23, 2026
• Where: Wildwood Saloon, 4919 Walleye Dr., SE Iowa City
• Cost: Free
• More info: Wildwood Saloon

Big Whiskey’s American Restaurant & Bar in Owensboro, Kentucky, is making a name for itself with an impressive whiskey selection, boasting over 100 brands. Owned by Alan and Lisa Lawrence, the venue features premium options like Old Rip Van Winkle at $45 per shot and a unique partnership with Green River Distilling, showcasing several of their whiskies.

The Lawrences entered the restaurant industry after Alan’s retirement from an IT firm bound by a non-compete clause. They sought a franchise opportunity that would resonate in their community, leading them to Big Whiskey’s, which opened on August 15, 2025, in a former Bar Louie location. Although business has been solid, winter has slowed foot traffic. However, the restaurant benefits from its proximity to local hotels and conventions.

Unlike a typical large open space, Big Whiskey’s layout is thoughtfully arranged into sections for a more intimate dining experience. The restaurant includes a private dining room for 50 and showcases local artwork, contributing to its community-focused atmosphere. The addition of nearby developments, such as the Bluegrass Fieldhouse sports complex and new apartments, is anticipated to bring more patrons.

With around 80 employees during the winter and 90 during the busier summer months, Big Whiskey’s puts forth a commitment to community engagement. They’re initiating programs like "Give Back" nights where local nonprofits receive a portion of sales. The restaurant’s winter hours run from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekdays and extend until midnight on weekends, serving a full menu late into the night, with customer favorites including chicken tenders, burgers, and steaks.

Big Whiskey’s, which began in downtown Springfield, Missouri, in 2006, now has a growing franchise presence, promising to become a staple in Owensboro’s dining scene.

The world of spirits is vast, but few contenders can match the sheer strength of Spirytus Rektyfikowany, a Polish vodka that holds the title of the strongest alcohol worldwide. With a staggering 192-proof (96% alcohol by volume), it towers over popular liquors like Everclear, which is only 95% alcohol.

Vodka has deep historical roots in Eastern Europe, particularly in Poland, which has been producing high-proof spirits since the 1400s. Over the centuries, Polish distilleries, such as Polmos, refined their production methods, leading to the development of Spirytus. This spirit should not be enjoyed casually; it’s known primarily for its intense potency rather than its flavor. While it may be used in Poland for infusions with fruit, herbs, or spices, its most notable recent use was in the manufacture of hand sanitizer during the pandemic.

The exceptional strength of Spirytus comes from its unique production process called rectification. Unlike standard vodkas that undergo a couple of distillation cycles, Spirytus is distilled multiple times. This process effectively removes impurities and concentrates the alcohol content, yielding a nearly pure ethanol product. The base ingredients vary, often including grains like maize or rye, which undergo fermentation before the distillation begins.

Despite its reputation, Spirytus carries health warnings. It’s highly flammable and can be toxic if misused—hence it’s important not to consume it in large amounts or straight. If you’re interested in experiencing Spirytus for yourself, it can typically be purchased for $20 to $50, depending on the bottle size.

For a taste of history and an exploration of the limits of alcoholic beverages, Spirytus Rektyfikowany stands out as both a remarkable and cautionary spirit.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. recently showcased the stylish new #40 car designed for the Daytona 500, driven by Justin Allgaier. This year, the car features a throwback design with burgundy stripes and vintage stickers, reflecting a classic ’70s vibe. Earnhardt’s JR Motorsports team has partnered with country star Chris Stapleton’s Traveller whiskey, which also sponsors the car, for another attempt at the Daytona 500.

In a video shared by JR Motorsports, Earnhardt, Allgaier, and Stapleton admired the revamped look of the car, agreeing that it surpasses last year’s version. Allgaier, a seasoned driver with JR Motorsports since 2016 and the 2024 NASCAR Xfinity Series champion, will again need to qualify for the Daytona 500 since the car competes as an open entry, lacking a guaranteed starting spot.

Last year was particularly emotional for Earnhardt as their car qualified for the race despite not being guaranteed a place, resulting in a commendable 9th place finish after starting from 19th. Over the years, JR Motorsports has established itself as a leading team in the Xfinity Series, raising speculation about future expansion into the Cup Series. Though Earnhardt has expressed interest, financial challenges around charter costs make this a complex goal.

For now, the partnership between JR Motorsports and Stapleton aims to make a strong impression at the Great American Race, as fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming Daytona 500.

Dancers in grass skirts and a vibrant ambiance define the experience at The MAI-KAI, Fort Lauderdale’s renowned Polynesian restaurant, where rum flows freely. Recently, they have taken their offerings a step further by introducing their own branded rum, dubbed Mai-Kai Rum No. 1—something far more robust than the typical Bacardi. This new spirit promises to awaken your taste buds with its bold flavors.

The MAI-KAI has built a reputation for its cocktails, attracting guests from all over the world for its food, drinks, and spectacular performances. Kern Mattei, one of the team members, shared their motivation for creating a proprietary rum. “For many years, we’ve searched for the best rum to feature in our drinks. During the Reconstruction, we thought, ‘Why don’t we create our own rum to replicate those we used in the past?’”

Mai-Kai Rum No. 1 was born out of that vision. This is not a light rum; it boasts 100 proof and a rich, distinct flavor. Robert Burr, another key player in this initiative, stated, “We haven’t seen this style of rum for 50 years… this is rich, bold, rustic rums that defined the flavor of a cocktail.”

The new rum will feature prominently in The MAI-KAI’s signature cocktails, including the impressive Sidewinder’s Fang cocktail, which guests have been raving about. One guest remarked, “It’s actually really good, not gonna lie!”

For those wishing to recreate the experience at home, the Mai-Tai No. 1 cocktail offers a taste of the tropical paradise. Made with a blend of secret spices, juices, and, of course, Mai-Kai Rum No. 1, it’s embellished with fresh mint and pineapple garnishes for that true tiki touch.

However, you won’t find this new rum on the shelves of local liquor stores; it’s currently available exclusively at The MAI-KAI gift shop for $70 per liter. Kern Mattei invites everyone to visit, stating, “When you come to The MAI-KAI to get the full experience, join us in the Molokai Bar for a few cocktails and consider making reservations for dinner and a show—it’s nearly a mini vacation right here in Fort Lauderdale.”

For those looking to indulge, further details can be found at MAI-KAI Restaurant and Polynesian Show.

New Riff Distilling, established in 2014, has rapidly gained prominence in the Kentucky whiskey scene by blending innovative techniques with traditional methods. Their 6-year-old bottled-in-bond malted rye whiskey, launched in 2021, has become particularly popular.

Exciting news for enthusiasts: New Riff has launched a program allowing fans to purchase an entire barrel of this malted rye whiskey, which usually yields around 180 bottles, depending on the specific cask. A key distinction of the single barrel offering is that it is bottled at cask strength, differing from the standard version that is bottled at 100 proof.

The purpose of this single barrel initiative is to highlight the unique qualities of individual barrels that contain the same whiskey. Unlike typical bottled products which blend liquids from multiple barrels, a single barrel showcases the distinct flavors imparted by the oak barrels and the microclimates in which they are stored. According to Master Distiller Brian Sprance, the Single Barrel Malted Rye presents the whiskey in its purest form, emphasizing the bold fruit essence balanced with soft caramel notes.

The Single Barrel Malted Rye will be available for full barrel purchase starting January 2026 at their Newport, KY distillery. In addition to the malted rye, the single barrel program will also feature selections of their 6-year-old bourbon, 4-year-old bourbon, and 6-year-old rye, with the latter two offered in smaller amounts starting at 90 bottles.

Interested buyers can find further details and make inquiries through the distillery’s website.

Planteray’s Xaymaca Special Dry has been crowned Best Aged Rum of 2025 at the highly regarded San Francisco World Spirits Competition. This distinction highlights the complexity and depth of aged rums, which are often misunderstood as mere mixers with sweet flavor profiles.

Far from being just a sweet concoction, Xaymaca Special Dry exemplifies the sophisticated character that rum can offer. This Jamaican rum, with an ABV of 86 proof, is crafted from 100% pot still rums produced at the Clarendon and Long Pond distilleries, with histories dating back to 1753 and 77 years, respectively. The name "Xaymaca" itself is derived from an indigenous term meaning "land of wood and water," reflecting the rum’s flavor profile developed through aging in ex-bourbon and cognac barrels.

Upon tasting, Xaymaca reveals aromas of over-ripened tropical fruits such as grilled pineapple and bananas, contrasted by an unexpected dryness characterized by spices, oak, and a hint of coconut. The flavor journey continues with a touch of smokiness and citrus zest, making it a versatile option for sipping neat or as a unique twist in cocktails—such as a rum-fueled Old Fashioned.

Planteray’s achievement does not end there. Last year, they also gained recognition as the “World’s Best Rum Brand” for 2024 and their coconut-infused Cut & Dry was awarded “Best New Spirit” at the Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards.

Looking ahead, Planteray is set to release Hogo Monsta in 2026, promising to be the highest-ester rum available commercially, further establishing their commitment to the artistry of rum. With Xaymaca readily available on U.S. shelves at around $30 a bottle, rum enthusiasts have abundant opportunities to explore this intricate category.

For more details on the outstanding rums and their awards:

• Planteray’s Xaymaca Special Dry
• San Francisco World Spirits Competition