Liquor-articles 1905

Noel Distillery owners Natalie Noel and her father Chip Noel look over a vat of sugar cane mash and yeast as it starts the fermenting process on Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, in Donaldsonville, Louisiana.

Step inside the Noel Distillery in Donaldsonville and you’ll smell the sweet, funky scent of cane juice fermenting and see Natalie Noel, her father Frank, sister, and aunt hard at work checking temperatures on the still, bottling rum and attaching labels.

This is a small but growing family operation, and one of only a handful of rum distilleries in Louisiana.

“We live in one of the largest sugar cane producing areas of the world. Why are we not making more rum?” said 68-year-old Frank “Chip” Noel.

Frank, a retired pilot who developed a passion for cigars and rum during his frequent trips to the Caribbean, eventually took up distilling as a post-retirement hobby.

According to Natalie Noel, Frank’s daughter and business partner, her father’s whole life has revolved around new hobbies. She mentioned taxidermy, woodworking, and golf as some of his special interests. True to form, he didn’t just stop at enjoying rum, he wanted to take it a step further.

Natalie had a well-rounded education; she played basketball at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette where she obtained a degree in marketing. She later pursued her MBA at LSU. When she saw her father’s growing interest in rum, she believed it held potential for a more serious business venture.

Frank constructed his own still while Natalie and the rest of the family carried out the necessary paperwork to incorporate a business; this was their Christmas gift to him. It’s six years later now, and the Noel Distillery is officially open for business.

Natalie expresses her passion for creating a space where people can enjoy a fine cocktail. In establishing the distillery, she saw an opportunity to create a legacy for her children while working closely with her father. They enjoy a close friendship besides their business partnership.

In spite of Louisiana being one of the world’s leading sugar cane producers, only a few local distilleries produce rum. The initial costs for setting up a distillery are burdensome. Expensive fermenters and bottling machinery are necessary for operation, and the Noels have moved up from their handmade still. Besides, a substantial amount of regulatory paperwork is needed.

The Noel Distillery’s still was pictured on Friday, December 1, 2023, situated in Donaldsonville, Louisiana.

According to Natalie Noel, the hurdles preventing entry into this industry are extremely high.

While Louisiana boasts a strong affinity for daiquiris, rum doesn’t necessarily take the top spot as the spirit of choice for most people. Instead, Vodka enjoys the title of the most sought-after spirit in the U.S, with tequila marginally closing this gap in the recent past, reports the Distilled Spirits Council of the U.S.

The Noels intend to overturn this preference. The prevalent perception of rum among Americans is that of a sweet or spiced beverage. This is because a large percentage of rum sales in the U.S. involves rum produced using molasses or those that are mixed into sweet beverages.

However, “rhum agricole”, a French phrase referring to rum directly crafted from sugar cane juice, evokes a grassy, and herbal palate. Furthermore, aged rum, a variant that the Noels are currently crafting, can deliver an experience akin to drinking whiskey.

“We want to be synonymous with flavor and fun,” declared Natalie Noel. “Louisiana is brimming with spirit, culture, diversity, and flair. Tito’s has cemented its place across all festivals in Louisiana, but I want to highlight that local offerings can stand out and be exceptional,” she exclaimed.

Gas bubbles subtly appear in a container filled with sugar cane pulp and yeast, signalling the commencement of the fermentation process at the Noel Distillery, observed on Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, located in Donaldsonville, Louisiana.

The Noels are diligently crafting an agricole rum that they optimistically plan to launch in the summer of 2024. With deep-seated roots in farming, Frank was raised on a sugar cane farm and his cousin stands as one of the largest sugar cane producers within the state, establishing a solid connection with the mill that is the source for their juice.

“The entire process of fermenting this muddy juice is quite involved,” he discloses.

In producing first-rate rum, sweet, fresh juice proves integral. Being a raw element, sugar cane juice commences fermentation without delay. Frank Noel employs a method of ensuring it remains cool for a slower fermentation, which he believes is vital for drawing out the ultimate flavor.

That, along with his unique mixture of yeast.

After the fermentation process, the liquid is shifted into a distillation apparatus and reduced down to an alcoholic content of 45%. Ten gallons of the initial juice yields roughly 75 to 80 rum bottles.

The next step could either be its direct consumption or aging. The Noels are currently producing a rum variant which is aged for three years, apart from their regular agricole rum.

As there was a delay in the production of rum from Louisiana cane, the distillery this year is marketing a version produced from Central American molasses. It is given a final touch in barrels that previously stored tequila, infusing it with a distinctive agave flavor. Natalie Noel suggests it tastes excellent in mixed drinks containing banana, mint, and other tropical elements.

Noel Distillery also has a vodka made from corn twice distilled, a pickle vodka, and a tequila.

Several different spirits from the Noel Distillery line a shelve on Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, in Donaldsonville, Louisiana.

The tequila recently won a gold medal at the New York International Spirits Competition.

The hardest part of the business so far, Natalie Noel said, has been trying to change human drinking behavior.

“To escape the bustling marketplace and proclaim ‘we are here!’” she stated. “Individuals are often reluctant to experiment with new things or doubt the goodness of quality.”

Karen Kliebert affixes the seal to a bottle of Noel Distillery vodka on the very Friday, 1st of December, 2023, in the charming town of Donaldsonville, Louisiana. Kliebert takes pride as one of the Noel family matriarchs, with the Donaldsonville distillery being a family endeavour.

As for the present time, the spirits can be purchased at Calandro’s, Hocus Pocus, and various other retailers, alongside Bengal Tap, Mother’s, Uncle Earl’s and a handful of other Baton Rouge bars. The Noels have recently entered into a contract with the substantial Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits, a widespread distribution firm they hold hopes for in terms of broadcasting their Louisiana rum.

Those who are intrigued and considering a journey to Donaldsonville have the option to explore the distillery from the morning hours of 9 a.m. to the afternoon of 3 p.m. from Monday to Friday, embark on a tour with a fee of $12 and try out all the four spirits at the cost of $8. Tours can be organised on Saturdays upon request, and the distillery is also available for hosting Christmas bashes and other festive events.

Email Rebecca Holland at rebecca.holland@theadvocate.com or follow her on Twitter, @_rebeccaholland.

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If you put wine or beer in a freezer, it will be frozen solid in just a few hours.

But if you put vodka in your home freezer, it won’t freeze, even after weeks — or months.

So whether you’re blending vodka with fruit juices to create favorites like a screwdriver, crafting a vodka martini or mixing up a trendy Moscow Mule, having the beverage ice-cold — but not frozen — elevates the taste of the cocktail for sure.

DO HEALING CRYSTALS HAVE ANY SCIENTIFIC BACKING? SOME CITE REMARKABLE BENEFITS

It’s very common to store vodka in the freezer so that you have chilled vodka ready at a moment’s notice. 

Still, you may have pondered why vodka never freezes in your home freezer. 

Whether you’re blending vodka with fruit juices to create favorites like a screwdriver or crafting a vodka martini, having ice-cold vodka elevates the taste of the cocktail. But ever wonder why this spirit doesn’t freeze in a home freezer? 

A specialist in science has shared the plain truth regarding the reason this alcoholic beverage doesn’t freeze in an ordinary household freezer.

The alcohol present in a spirit drink is ethanol.

“The proof of vodka is typically around 80, which indicates it has about 40% ethanol by volume,” stated Tara S. Carpenter, PhD, a primary teacher in the field of chemistry and biochemistry at the University of Maryland Baltimore County in Baltimore.

SHAUN WHITE, OLYMPIC SNOWBOARDER, TEAMS WITH UTAH’S HIGH WEST DISTILLERY TO PROTECT WESTERN US

“The other 60% is mostly water, although there can be added flavorings, sugar or dissolved impurities,” she said.

The freezing point of alcohol is much lower than the widely known freezing point for liquids such as water.

The freezing point of water is 0°C or 32°F, she said, while the freezing point of ethanol is -114.1°C or -173.5°F.

Since the freezing point of alcohol is much lower than the widely known freezing point for liquids such as water — vodka won’t freeze in an everyday home freezer.

Bottles of assorted alcoholic beverages. While putting vodka “in the freezer will affect it somewhat, it won’t freeze solid in your traditional freezer.” (iStock)

“At around 40% alcohol (80-proof), vodka has a freezing point that hovers at around -16 degrees Fahrenheit. And while putting it in the freezer will affect it somewhat, it won’t freeze solid in your traditional freezer,” noted Reader’s Digest.

It’s a nifty science lesson, for sure.

“When we mix ethanol and water together, the mixture has its own unique freezing point that is lower than that of water, due to something called freezing point depression,” said Carpenter.

6 BREWERIES ACROSS AMERICA THAT OFFER GREAT BREWS AND STUNNING VIEWS, TOO

That being said, if you are the type who likes your vodka unmixed and served over ice, or if vodka shots are your preferred choice of drink, keeping it in your freezer is a wise idea.

According to VinePair.com, for most vodka brands, freezer storage is recommended and it most certainly makes the shot much more tolerable.

A lot of Americans have a bottle or two kept in their freezer at home, but is that really the optimal spot to keep it?

A variety of Smirnoff vodka liquors. Don’t fret about not storing vodka in your freezer — as that leaves more room for frozen pizza and ice cream. (Rick Kern/Getty Images)

If your vodka of choice is top-tier, skip the freezer, Grey Goose vodka creator Francois Thibault told Business Insider. 

If you prefer a more budget-friendly vodka, he said it’s not a bad idea to keep it in the freezer, since cold temperatures may mask the vodka’s notes or properties, which could be “aggressive” and “burning,” according to Thibault. 

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

So, deciding to store vodka in your home freezer is a personal decision. 

Cold temperatures may mask a vodka’s notes or properties.

It won’t freeze, but the quality of vodka could impact your decision about whether to store it in your fridge or your freezer. 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

Still, if you choose not to store vodka in the freezer, don’t fret — as that leaves more room for frozen pizza and ice cream.

For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews.com/lifestyle.

Erica Lamberg is a contributing reporter for Fox News Digital.

Fun stories about food, relationships, the great outdoors and more.

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You’ve successfully subscribed to this newsletter!

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If you put wine or beer in a freezer, it will be frozen solid in just a few hours.

But if you put vodka in your home freezer, it won’t freeze, even after weeks — or months.

So whether you’re blending vodka with fruit juices to create favorites like a screwdriver, crafting a vodka martini or mixing up a trendy Moscow Mule, having the beverage ice-cold — but not frozen — elevates the taste of the cocktail for sure.

DO HEALING CRYSTALS HAVE ANY SCIENTIFIC BACKING? SOME CITE REMARKABLE BENEFITS

It’s very common to store vodka in the freezer so that you have chilled vodka ready at a moment’s notice. 

Still, you may have pondered why vodka never freezes in your home freezer. 

Whether you’re blending vodka with fruit juices to create favorites like a screwdriver or crafting a vodka martini, having ice-cold vodka elevates the taste of the cocktail. But ever wonder why this spirit doesn’t freeze in a home freezer? 

A science expert unveiled the chilling fact about why this alcohol-based beverage does not freeze in an average household freezer.

The constituent alcohol in liquor is essentially ethanol.

“The standard proof of Vodka is 80, implying that it comprises 40% of ethanol by volume,” stated Tara S. Carpenter, PhD, an authoritative lecturer at the University of Maryland Baltimore County’s department of chemistry and biochemistry in Baltimore.

SHAUN WHITE, OLYMPIC SNOWBOARDER, PARTNERS WITH UTAH’S HIGH WEST DISTILLERY TO CONSERVE WESTERN US 

“The other 60% is mostly water, although there can be added flavorings, sugar or dissolved impurities,” she said.

The freezing point of alcohol is much lower than the widely known freezing point for liquids such as water.

The freezing point of water is 0°C or 32°F, she said, while the freezing point of ethanol is -114.1°C or -173.5°F.

Since the freezing point of alcohol is much lower than the widely known freezing point for liquids such as water — vodka won’t freeze in an everyday home freezer.

Bottles of assorted alcoholic beverages. Although placing vodka in the freezer will slightly impact it, it won’t freeze completely in a standard freezer.

At roughly 40% alcohol (80-proof), vodka has a freezing point that hovers around -16 degrees Fahrenheit. Even if it’s stored in the freezer, it won’t completely solidify, as noted by Reader’s Digest.

Indeed, this is a valuable scientific lesson.

When we mix ethanol and water together, the resulting mixture has its own unique freezing point which is lower than that of pure water. This phenomenon is due to what’s known as freezing point depression, as explained by Carpenter.

6 BREWERIES ACROSS AMERICA THAT OFFER GREAT BREWS AND STUNNING VIEWS, TOO

That said, if you prefer your vodka without a mixer and on the rocks, or if shots of vodka are your go-to drink, storing it in your freezer is a sound strategy.

For most vodka, storing it in the freezer is the way to go, and it will probably make the shot much easier to handle, according to the VinePair.com.

Many Americans keep a bottle or two stored in their home freezer, but is that truly the best place to store it?

A variety of Smirnoff vodka liquors. Don’t fret about not storing vodka in your freezer — as that leaves more room for frozen pizza and ice cream. (Rick Kern/Getty Images)

If your vodka of choice is top-tier, skip the freezer, Grey Goose vodka creator Francois Thibault told Business Insider. 

If you prefer a more budget-friendly vodka, he said it’s not a bad idea to keep it in the freezer, since cold temperatures may mask the vodka’s notes or properties, which could be “aggressive” and “burning,” according to Thibault. 

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

So, deciding to store vodka in your home freezer is a personal decision.

Cold temperatures may mask a vodka’s notes or properties.

It won’t freeze, but the quality of vodka could impact your decision about whether to store it in your fridge or your freezer.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

Still, if you decide not to stash vodka in the freezer, there’s no need for alarm — this simply means more space for your frozen pizza and ice cream.

For additional Lifestyle pieces, check out www.foxnews.com/lifestyle.

Erica Lamberg is a reporter contributing to Fox News Digital.

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This week, the online order and food delivery platform DoorDash publicized its 2023 trend report, pointing out two new dominant spirits that have emerged this past year.

In 2023, DoorDash recorded a 648% surge in whiskey orders and a 317% rise in rum. “We saw a resurgence of old classics,” Alanna Shipley, a Consumer Insights Expert at DoorDash mentioned, revealing that cinnamon whiskey, Tennessee whiskey, and bourbon, as well as white rum, spiced rum, and coconut rum, were the top orders in their respective categories.

Shipley informed me that these spirits were not ordered by themselves. “We saw a variety of food pairings for these popular drinks,” she stated. “Those who love whiskey leaned into sweets, pairing their drink with candy such as sweet tarts, while those ordering rum paired their spirit with savory items like sour cream and onion chips.”

Even though whiskey and rum demonstrated a significant increase this past year, vodka remains on top of the list as the most ordered alcohol since DoorDash began delivering alcohol in 2021.

The second most popular after vodka is cabernet sauvignon, then comes prosecco, Irish whiskey, cinnamon whiskey, pinot grigio, pinot noir, hard seltzer, which according to DoorDash saw an 83% increase in orders year-over-year, tequila and moscato.

When it comes to America’s preferred alcohol orders for 2023, vodka still remains at the top, followed by hard seltzer, then tequila, sauvignon blanc, prosecco, whiskey, pinot grigio, lager beer, pinot noir and rum.

DoorDash also identified other popular alcohol-related trends like requests for the day after drinking. The company disclosed popular occasions referred as “holiday hangovers,” where they observed a surge in orders for necessities like ibuprofen the day following events like St. Patrick’s Day, Halloween and New Year’s Eve. The increase in orders for ibuprofen was over 400% after Halloween.

Among the top items ordered along with ibuprofen were cognac, cheesesteaks, nacho fries, bacon egg and cheese, and cold brew coffee.

DoorDash’s annual report highlighted geography-based trends beyond wine and spirits. It discovered that Los Angeles, Chicago, and Houston were the cities with the highest number of coffee orders in the year. Notable mentions from the report include 2023’s high-demand desserts, top grocery items, and intriguing food pairings.

The report also offers predictions for 2024, among which is an anticipated surge in the use of on-demand delivery services during holidays and festive periods. Also, the year is expected to witness a boom in late-night snacks with a 36% year-on-year increase in orders from midnight to 5 a.m., a trend predicted to continue upwards.

This week, online ordering and food delivery platform DoorDash released its 2023 trends report, noting two new spirits of choice that emerged in the past year.

In 2023, DoorDash witnessed a 648% increase in whiskey orders and a 317% increase in rum. “We saw old classics make a comeback,” said Alanna Shipley, Consumer Insights Expert at DoorDash, who shared that cinnamon whiskey, Tennessee whiskey and bourbon versus white rum, spiced rum and coconut rum were the top orders within their respective categories.

Shipley told me that both spirits weren’t ordered alone, however. “We saw an array of different food pairings for these popular sips,” she said. “Whiskey lovers leaned into sweets, pairing the drink with candy like sweet tarts, [and] we saw those ordering rum pair the spirit with savory eats like sour cream and onion chips.”

Though whiskey and rum achieved a surprising increase this past year, since DoorDash expanded into alcohol delivery in 2021, they’ve been tracking the most popular orders. Here, vodka tops the list of most-ordered alcohol.

The second most popular after vodka is cabernet sauvignon, then prosecco, Irish whiskey, cinnamon whiskey, pinot grigio, pinot noir, hard seltzer which according to DoorDash experienced an 83% increase in orders year-over-year, followed by tequila and moscato.

When analyzing the top favored alcohol orders specifically for the year 2023, vodka maintains its premier position with hard seltzer closely tailing it, then comes tequila, sauvignon blanc, prosecco, whiskey, pinot grigio, lager beer, pinot noir, and rum.

DoorDash identified some other alcoholic trends that were in high demand the day after consumption. They highlighted what they refer as “holiday hangovers”, where the morning following events like St. Patrick’s Day, Halloween, and New Year’s Eve saw a large increase in orders for ibuprofen, experiencing more than a 400% surge after Halloween, and other remedies for a hangover.

Along with ibuprofen, a top ordered item was cognac, with additional orders for items like cheesesteaks, nacho fries, bacon egg and cheese, and cold brew coffee.

DoorDash’s yearly report revealed regional trends outside of wine and spirits. Cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and Houston were highlighted for their high number of coffee orders. Plus, insights about the most unique food combinations, favorite desserts, and top grocery lists for 2023 were identified.

The report also shared future indicators for 2024. This includes an expected increase in reliance on on-demand delivery services during festive periods and holidays, and an emphasis on late-night snacking. According to their data, late-night orders from midnight to 5 a.m. have seen a 36% surge year-over-year and this trend is predicted to continue.

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If you put wine or beer in a freezer, it will be frozen solid in just a few hours.

But if you put vodka in your home freezer, it won’t freeze, even after weeks — or months.

So whether you’re blending vodka with fruit juices to create favorites like a screwdriver, crafting a vodka martini or mixing up a trendy Moscow Mule, having the beverage ice-cold — but not frozen — elevates the taste of the cocktail for sure.

DO HEALING CRYSTALS HAVE ANY SCIENTIFIC BACKING? SOME CITE REMARKABLE BENEFITS

It’s very common to store vodka in the freezer so that you have chilled vodka ready at a moment’s notice. 

Still, you may have pondered why vodka never freezes in your home freezer. 

Whether you’re blending vodka with fruit juices to create favorites like a screwdriver or crafting a vodka martini, having ice-cold vodka elevates the taste of the cocktail. But ever wonder why this spirit doesn’t freeze in a home freezer? 

A science expert disclosed the undeniable reason why spirits do not freeze in the standard home freezers.

Ethanol is the alcohol in spirits.

“Spirits such as vodka are typically around 80 proof, implying they contain 40% ethanol by volume,” stated Tara S. Carpenter, PhD, a main lecturer in the chemistry and biochemistry department at the University of Maryland Baltimore County situated in Baltimore.

SHAUN WHITE, OLYMPIC SNOWBOARDER, TEAMS UP WITH UTAH’S HIGH WEST DISTILLERY TO PROTECT WESTERN US

“The other 60% is mostly water, although there can be added flavorings, sugar or dissolved impurities,” she said.

The freezing point of alcohol is much lower than the widely known freezing point for liquids such as water.

The freezing point of water is 0°C or 32°F, she said, while the freezing point of ethanol is -114.1°C or -173.5°F.

Since the freezing point of alcohol is much lower than the widely known freezing point for liquids such as water — vodka won’t freeze in an everyday home freezer.

Bottles of assorted alcoholic beverages. Although the chill from a freezer will have some effect on vodka, it won’t fully freeze in a regular household freezer.

“At around 40% alcohol (80-proof), vodka has a freezing point that hovers at around -16 degrees Fahrenheit. Even though the freezer’s cold will affect it somewhat, it’s not enough to freeze the vodka solid in your conventional freezer,” as explained by Reader’s Digest.

This is quite an insightful science lesson.

“When we combine ethanol and water, the mix has its personal unique freezing point that is lower than just water. This is caused by a phenomenon known as freezing point depression,” added Carpenter.

6 BREWERIES ACROSS AMERICA THAT OFFER GREAT BREWS AND STUNNING VIEWS, TOO

That said, if you prefer your vodka without a mixer and on the rocks, or if shots of vodka are your go-to drink, storing it in your freezer is a sound strategy.

For most vodka, storing it in the freezer is the way to go, and it may make the shot much easier to handle, as per VinePair.com.

Many Americans keep one or two bottles stored in their home freezer, but is it really the best place to store it?

A variety of Smirnoff vodka liquors. Don’t fret about not storing vodka in your freezer — as that leaves more room for frozen pizza and ice cream.

If your vodka of choice is top-tier, skip the freezer, Grey Goose vodka creator Francois Thibault told Business Insider. 

If you prefer a more budget-friendly vodka, he said it’s not a bad idea to keep it in the freezer, since cold temperatures may mask the vodka’s notes or properties, which could be “aggressive” and “burning,” according to Thibault. 

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Storing vodka in your home freezer is fundamentally a personal choice. 

Cold temperatures might conceal some of a vodka’s characteristics or features.

Although it won’t freeze, the nature of vodka may influence your choice between storing it in your fridge or freezer. 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

Still, if you choose not to store vodka in the freezer, don’t fret — as that leaves more room for frozen pizza and ice cream.

For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews.com/lifestyle.

Erica Lamberg is a contributing reporter for Fox News Digital.

Fun stories about food, relationships, the great outdoors and more.

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Fans of Bob Dylan — and good whiskey — can now get their hands on a new release from the singer’s Heaven’s Door Spirits brand in time for the holidays.

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The company has unveiled an 18-year-old straight bourbon whiskey dubbed the “Bootleg Series Volume V” release. A new release for 2023, the bourbon is finished in Spanish vermouth rouge casks for a rich and complex aroma that features notes of dark fruit, caramel and spice, with subtle vanilla undertones. The ceramic bottle, meantime, features one of Dylan’s original paintings (itself inspired by his road trips across America) and everything is presented in a bespoke leather journal.

BUY: HEAVEN’S DOOR BOOTLEG SERIES VOLUME V $115

This is the fifth release in Heaven’s Door’s “Bootleg” series, which was first launched in 2019. The company’s inaugural “Decade Series,” meantime, was unveiled last year and is also available to order online via ReserveBar.com, making it a great Christmas gift idea.

The Decade Series is a limited-edition collection of ultra-premium American whiskeys, each aged for 10 years or more. The first release in the series is a high-rye 10-year-old straight bourbon whiskey, available at a suggested price of $95 online.

BUY: HEAVEN’S DOOR DECADE SERIES 01, $95

The whiskey is bottled at 100 proof and features notes of maple, poached pear and banana on the nose, with a toffee and bitter chocolate palate. The finish is long and silky, with a hint of leather and earthiness.

The inaugural release of the Decade Series collection is not its inception. The creators of Heaven’s Door claim its genesis to be over a decade ago, marking the hand-selection of barrels from boutique producers nationwide.

Heaven’s Door releases a statement articulating their excitement for the release, which they assert brings an exclusive taste to the world of whiskey. According to them, their Tennessee bourbon brings a non-conventional mash bill, featuring 22% rye and devoid of charcoal mellowing. They describe its distillation as evoking more traditional Kentucky bourbon tastes.

The initial release of the Heaven’s Door Decade Series can be purchased online for home delivery via Reserve Bar. All bottles in the Heaven’s Door line encapsulate Dylan’s ironwork sculptures on their labels, a detail dating back to the brand’s introduction in 2015 by Dylan, a bootleg whiskey enthusiast.

New releases from Dylan’s whiskey brand are consistently being introduced, with recent additions including a Heaven’s Door Cask Strength Single Barrel 2021, and a collaboration with Heaven’s Door Whiskey and Redbreast Irish Whiskey which quickly sold out last May but is now . All the Heaven’s Door releases can be found online at ReserveBar.com.

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Rolling Stones fans? It’s all right now.

In fact, it’s a gas. Or rather a liquid.

One of the world’s greatest and most influential rock bands is introducing its first-ever spirit, Crossfire Hurricane Rum, a premium blend of rums from Jamaica, Barbados and the Dominican Republic named after the opening lyric of their iconic 1968 song, “Jumpin’ Jack Flash.” And it’s being bottled in Florida.

“Take your tongue for a ride with Crossfire Hurricane,” the band says at crossfirehurricane.com. “This aged, blended rum is our tribute to the islands that have inspired us for decades. Enjoy it neat, on the rocks or in the cocktail of your choosing.

“But never in silence.”

The rum, part of a partnership with Universal Music Group and Socio Ventures, will be bottled and packed at The Point Distillery in New Port Richey, according to a release from the Pasco Economic Development Council.

The announcement came in November, just before the rock royalty band announced a new U.S. tour for 2024 (they’ll be in Orlando on June 3, here’s how to get tickets) and released its first new album since 2005, “Hackney Diamonds,” which debuted at No. 1 on the U.K. albums chart and No. 3 on the Billboard 200 album chart. That makes the seemingly immortal band the first act with a top 10 album in every decade since the 1960s.

What’s kept the band jumpin’ — and relevant — for over 60 years as Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Ronnie Wood, the late Charlie Watts, and past members like Brian Jones and Bill Wyman blended blues, rock, and rhythm and blues into a signature sound and changed the landscape of rock and roll?

"I want a real fine car, fly Miami too," Jagger sang on the song "Luxury." "All the rum I want to drink it, all the whiskey too."

"The Stones’ love affair with rum began in the ’70s while recording their album ‘Goats Head Soup’ in Kingston, Jamaica," according to a statement from Universal Music Group. "The Caribbean’s boisterous energy and music took hold of the group over the decades and Mick Jagger and Keith Richards often locate themselves on the islands when the band is off the road, it says."

"To us, the Caribbean is more than just a beautiful place. It’s a part of our story," the band said on the rum’s website.

Together with their legendary musical talent and Mick Jagger’s magnetic, frenzied front-man performances, the band has turned into the epitome of rock and roll excess and rebellion. Their site does advise caution, though.

“Always remember to Rock and Roll responsibly,” it says.

It’s described as “a thoughtfully blended rum perfectly aged in carefully selected oak barrels,” according to the release. “The liquid boasts flavors of caramelized bananas followed by a gentle hint of tropical fruit.”

The 700-ml, 40% ABV bottle can be pre-ordered now at crossfirehurricane.com or ReserveBar.com for $37 and should begin shipping early in December. Crossfire Hurricane should start showing up on store shelves in select states in early 2024, according to Beverage Industry.

Of course, they do. On the crossfirehurricane.com site, the band suggests:

Two Licks: 2 oz of Crossfire Hurricane Rum into an ice-filled old fashioned glass, garnish with two black cherries on a cocktail pick.

Gold and Stormy: 1.5 oz of Crossfire Hurricane Rum in an ice-filled Collins glass, with lime juice and ginger beer stirred in, then a dash of Angostura Bitters and garnish with a black cherry and lime wheel on a cocktail pick.

Crossfire Mojito: Crossfire Hurricane Rum, simple syrup and lime poured over pressed mint leaves, topped with beer and crushed ice, garnished with a mint bouquet.

Crossfire Espresso Martini: Crossfire Hurricane Rum, espresso, agave syrup and ice, shaken, strained into a chilled coupe, garnished with a fine dusting of espresso and swirled with a straw “to make a hurricane.”

USA TODAY’s Melissa Ruggieri contributed to this article.

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal:

Rolling Stones rum Crossfire Hurricane Rum bottled in Pasco Florida

Rolling Stones fans? It’s all right now.

In fact, it’s a gas. Or rather a liquid.

One of the world’s greatest and most influential rock bands is introducing its first-ever spirit, Crossfire Hurricane Rum, a premium blend of rums from Jamaica, Barbados and the Dominican Republic named after the opening lyric of their iconic 1968 song, “Jumpin’ Jack Flash.” And it’s being bottled in Florida.

“Take your tongue for a ride with Crossfire Hurricane,” the band says at crossfirehurricane.com. “This aged, blended rum is our tribute to the islands that have inspired us for decades. Enjoy it neat, on the rocks or in the cocktail of your choosing.

“But never in silence.”

The rum, part of a partnership with Universal Music Group and Socio Ventures, will be bottled and packed at The Point Distillery in New Port Richey, according to a release from the Pasco Economic Development Council.

The announcement came in November, just before the rock royalty band announced a new U.S. tour for 2024 (they’ll be in Orlando on June 3, here’s how to get tickets) and released its first new album since 2005, “Hackney Diamonds,” which debuted at No. 1 on the U.K. albums chart and No. 3 on the Billboard 200 album chart. That makes the seemingly immortal band the first act with a top 10 album in every decade since the 1960s.

What’s kept the band jumpin’ — and relevant — for over 60 years as Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Ronnie Wood, the late Charlie Watts, and past members like Brian Jones and Bill Wyman blended blues, rock, and rhythm and blues into a signature sound and changed the landscape of rock and roll?

“I want a real fine car, fly Miami too,” Jagger sang on the song “Luxury.” “All the rum I want to drink it, all the whiskey too.”

“The Stones’ love affair with rum began in the ’70s while recording their album ‘Goats Head Soup’ in Kingston, Jamaica,” according to a statement from Universal Music Group. “The Caribbean’s boisterous energy and music took hold of the group over the decades and Mick Jagger and Keith Richards often locate themselves on the islands when the band is off the road, it says.”

“To us, the Caribbean is more than just a beautiful place. It’s a part of our story,” the band said on the rum’s website.

Along with their legendary musical genius and Mick Jagger’s charismatic, frenetic front-man performances, the band has become the embodiment of rock and roll excess and rebellion. Their site does advise caution, however.

“Always remember to Rock and Roll responsibly,” it says.

It’s described as “a thoughtfully blended rum perfectly aged in carefully selected oak barrels,” according to the release. “The liquid boasts flavors of caramelized bananas followed by a gentle hint of tropical fruit.”

The 700-ml, 40% ABV bottle can be pre-ordered now at crossfirehurricane.com or ReserveBar.com for $37 and should begin shipping early in December. Crossfire Hurricane should start showing up on store shelves in select states in early 2024, according to Beverage Industry.

Of course, they do. On the crossfirehurricane.com site, the band suggests:

Two Licks: 2 oz of Crossfire Hurricane Rum into an ice-filled old fashioned glass, garnish with two black cherries on a cocktail pick.

Gold and Stormy: 1.5 oz of Crossfire Hurricane Rum in an ice-filled Collins glass, with lime juice and ginger beer stirred in, then a dash of Angostura Bitters and garnish with a black cherry and lime wheel on a cocktail pick.

Crossfire Mojito: Crossfire Hurricane Rum, simple syrup and lime poured over pressed mint leaves, topped with beer and crushed ice, garnished with a mint bouquet.

Crossfire Espresso Martini: Crossfire Hurricane Rum, espresso, agave syrup and ice, shaken, strained into a chilled coupe, garnished with a fine dusting of espresso and swirled with a straw “to make a hurricane.”

USA TODAY’s Melissa Ruggieri contributed to this article.

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Rolling Stones rum Crossfire Hurricane Rum bottled in Pasco Florida

Iron Fish Distillery’s Rye Whiskey commemorates the Arctic grayling’s return to Michigan waters. Iron Fish Distillery

THOMPSONVILLE, MI – Anglers and environmentalists who are cheering the Arctic grayling’s return to Michigan waters – nearly a century after the once-plentiful fish vanished – now have something special to pour when they’re toasting the comeback. Iron Fish Distillery will offer a limited release of its bottles in its Arctic Grayling Whiskey Series beginning Saturday, Dec. 9.

Iron Fish has been a supporter of the Michigan Arctic Grayling Initiative that is working to bring back the species in Michigan. The popular distillery in Thompsonville will also be hosting free, DNR-led information sessions on the grayling restoration effort on Dec. 9.

Presentations at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. that day will feature Ed Eisch, the fisheries assistant chief for the Department of Natural Resources. Eisch will give people an update on the Arctic grayling’s reintroduction efforts, followed by a Q&A session with a limited-seat audience. If you plan to attend this event, just RSVP through Eventbrite.

Saturday is also onsite pick-up day for those who have ordered their Arctic Grayling Whiskey. Aged five years, this special release includes 95% Iron Fish Distillery estate-grown rye and 5% Northern Michigan barley malted at the Great Lakes Malting Company in Traverse City.

“In 2018, we set aside a few barrels of estate farm grown rye whiskey. We finally bottled that rye and labeled it with a design donated by Michigan artist Dani Knoph,” Iron Fish staff said in a recent social media post announcing the limited release.

“Two hundred bottles of Arctic Grayling Rye Whiskey, aged over five years, will be released on Saturday Dec. 9 starting at noon. Each bottle is signed and numbered and can be purchased on site or reserved for pick up only, at the distillery by emailing

grayling@ironfishdistillery.com.”

The whiskey’s label features Knoph’s hand-drawn grayling print.

“The story of Michigan’s lost grayling is a comeback story – full of hope, challenge, science, and partnership.” said Knoph.

“Restoring Michigan’s wild grayling encourages us to learn from the past, evaluate the present and define the future. From Montana and Alaska to Michigan, many people are caring for this native species. It gives me hope, it’s the Native American Seven Generations principle at work.”

For more details about the staggered release times for these special whiskey bottles, the price, and donation guidelines, check the distillery’s Facebook post here.

To date, more than $8,000 has been raised for the Iron Fish Arctic Grayling Fund. This money goes to support research being done at Michigan State University, and costs for the reintroduction process.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Little River Band of Ottawa Indians and more than 40 other partners are working to reintroduce the Arctic grayling to Michigan waters. Michigan Department of Natural Resources

Michigan wildlife officials earlier this year approved catch-and-release rules for grayling. So far, the fish have been stocked in two Upper Peninsula lakes, as well as one lake in Manistee County. The exact locations have not been released.

Efforts to restore the grayling began in 2016, and the first adult fish were stocked this year. This created more hatchery space for the smaller graylings being raised by the DNR.

“The 2019 year-class of arctic grayling are starting to mature and we can only maintain so many of them per raceway as they get bigger, and so we need to move some out of those systems,” Jay Wesley, Lake Michigan basin coordinator for the DNR fisheries division, told MLive earlier this year ahead of the stocking effort.

“Our idea is that we’ll stock adult grayling in certain lakes, which would create kind of an instant fishery,” Wesley said.

The Arctic grayling second-year class was brought to Michigan from Alaska during spring 2021. The eggs have since hatched and are growing at the Oden State Fish Hatchery in Emmet County. The Michigan Arctic Grayling Initiative has been working since 2016 to reintroduce this native fish into the state’s cold-water streams after nearly a century of absence.Michigan Department of Natural Resources

The DNR has been using grayling eggs from Alaska to bring back Michigan’s grayling stock. A hatchery team in the U.P. is doing this work, and ultimately the plan is to have the DNR plant grayling eggs in cold-water tributaries so later those that become adult fish will return there to spawn.

The first efforts to save the grayling occurred more than a century ago, when their numbers were waning. Habitat loss was a problem for them then. So was logging across Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. Add in overfishing and the appearance of non-native trout, and the grayling had vanished by the mid-1930s.

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