Liquor-articles 1990

Deprecated: Creation of dynamic property InsertPostAds::$settings is deprecated in /home/icohol/public_html/wp-content/plugins/insert-post-ads/insert-post-ads.php on line 425

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.

The American Distilling Institute’s 2026 Judging showcased the evolving landscape of bourbon, emphasizing its traditional roots while highlighting innovative approaches. The results revealed three standout bourbons, each demonstrating unique expressions and character.

1. Still 630 Distillery, Due Process Bourbon (65.4% ABV)
Produced in St. Louis, Missouri, Due Process is celebrated for its raw power and intensity. With a mash bill of 70% corn, 20% rye, and 10% malted barley, this bourbon is aged for 4-5 years and bottled at a notable 130.6 proof. The bourbon offers a bold nose featuring caramelized sugar, vanilla, and toasted oak, with flavors of clove, cinnamon, and charred oak resonating on the palate. It presents a dense texture and a lengthy finish marked by oak char and peppery rye spice.

2. Widow Jane 10-Year Bourbon (45.5% ABV)
Sourced from various Kentucky distilleries and bottled in Brooklyn, Widow Jane is known for its uniqueness, with limestone-rich water from the Widow Jane Mine enhancing its profile. This bourbon features layered aromas of vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg, complemented by a blend of cherry and toasted pecan on the palate. Its smooth texture and balanced finish make it approachable while maintaining complexity.

3. Joseph Magnus Bourbon (50% ABV)
Joseph Magnus takes a distinctive route by finishing primarily 8–9-year-old Indiana bourbon in sherry and Cognac casks, creating a whiskey rich in dried fruit and chocolate flavors. It combines toffee and brown sugar notes with spices and a velvety mouthfeel. The finish is long and evolving, integrating both oak and nutty tones.

These selections highlight the breadth of bourbon’s stylistic range, reinforcing that within the strict legal definitions, creativity is abundant. Each expression presents an excellent choice for any bourbon enthusiast, offering a blend of tradition and innovation at relatively reasonable prices.

This refreshing Raspberry Vodka Sour cocktail is designed to elevate your happy hour with its vibrant flavors and simple preparation. With a combination of fresh raspberries, vodka, and lemon juice, it offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness, making it the perfect drink for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 6 fresh raspberries, plus extra for garnish
• 1/2 to 3/4 oz simple syrup
• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice

Directions

1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the raspberries with simple syrup until they break down.
2. Add the vodka, lemon juice, and ice to the shaker. Shake vigorously for 15 to 20 seconds until well chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a coupe or cocktail glass using a fine mesh strainer.
4. Finish with a fresh raspberry on a cocktail pick for garnish.

This cocktail not only impresses visually but is also quick to make, allowing you to enjoy a stylish drink in just minutes. Cheers to delightful cocktails and joyful gatherings!

Kuleana Rum Works, a Hawaiian distillery known for its additive-free rums, is expanding its reach across the U.S. despite a shrinking spirits market. The company has partnered with Craft & Art Wine and Spirits to bolster its national infrastructure for distribution. This partnership comes as Kuleana Rum Works experiences remarkable growth, evidenced by a 93.1% increase in 52-week dollar sales and a 100% year-to-date growth.

The popularity of Kuleana’s rum isn’t just a trend; consumers are increasingly opting for transparency and natural flavors in their spirits. Instead of relying on additives commonly used in the industry, Kuleana focuses on using fresh heirloom Hawaiian sugarcane, also known as kō, sourced from its regenerative farm in Kohala. This dedication allows Kuleana Rum Works to distill flavors that cannot be mimicked using conventional methods.

Steve Jefferson, Founder and CEO, emphasizes the company’s commitment to what they call “Rum Revolution 2.0,” which demonstrates consumer demand for exceptional, natural products. Their rum range includes notable offerings such as Huihui®, Nanea®, Hawaiian Rum Agricole®, and Hōkūlei®, each crafted to showcase what additive-free rum can achieve in terms of flavor and versatility.

The CEO of Craft & Art, Kevin Fennessey, echoes this sentiment by highlighting how Kuleana is redefining the rum category through its unique approach and quality. With this strategic partnership, Kuleana aims to transform its growing momentum into a more substantial market presence across various channels.

For more information, visit Kuleana Rum Works and Craft & Art Wine and Spirits.

Crystal Light has reintroduced its popular Vodka Refreshers just in time for summer. The lineup now includes the returning flavors of Lemonade and Wild Strawberry, alongside two exciting new options: Fruit Punch and Raspberry Lemonade.

The Vodka Refreshers are crafted with triple-filtered vodka, offering a lightly fizzy, ready-to-drink experience without the hassles of mixing. This effort marks an expansion into 46 states, making it easier for fans to enjoy these refreshing drinks. Available in four-packs and variety packs, the Vodka Refreshers aim to enhance any summer gathering, from beach days to backyard barbecues.

With the Ready-to-Drink (RTD) cocktail market growing rapidly, Crystal Light’s Vodka Refreshers are poised to capture attention with bold flavors and ease of use, making them a convenient option for any summer event.

For more information, you can check out the official Crystal Light page here.

On May 21, 2026, Tamworth Distilling launched a unique product called Skeeter’s Nootkatone Flavored Whiskey, which is being touted as the first-ever “whiskito.” This 120-proof flavored whiskey has been designed to enhance outdoor cocktail experiences, particularly during the mosquito-heavy summer months.

The distillery, based in New Hampshire, created this innovative beverage with nootkatone, a naturally occurring compound found in grapefruit peel and Alaska yellow cedar. This ingredient not only provides a citrus-forward aroma but also helps deter mosquitoes, making it a timely addition to summer gatherings.

Founder Steven Grasse highlighted the seasonal challenges faced by residents of rural New Hampshire, saying, "Bug season, which happens from May to mid-July, is no joke." The distillery promotes a “wilderness-to-bottle” approach, sourcing local ingredients and deriving inspiration from the surrounding environment.

Skeeter’s Flavored Whiskey features a blended whiskey base infused with grapefruit, eucalyptus, and lemongrass, along with notes of coconut, toasted marshmallow, and campfire smoke. Tamworth Distilling recommends using it as a cocktail modifier, for instance, finishing an Old Fashioned with a few sprays of the whiskey.

Starting May 25, Skeeter’s will be available for direct-to-consumer sales across 45 states through the distillery’s website and at its Tamworth bottle shop.