Liquor-articles 1359

It’s officially Metallica week in Syracuse, as the legendary metal band is set to perform at the JMA Wireless Dome on Saturday, April 19. With over 46,000 tickets already sold, the concert is shaping up to be one of the largest events ever held at this venue, which was formerly known as the Carrier Dome. A limited number of tickets, including newly released options, can be found on platforms like Ticketmaster, StubHub, and Vivid Seats.

Whether or not fans attend the concert, numerous activities are planned around Syracuse for Metallica enthusiasts. On Friday, April 18, the band’s new documentary, “Metallica Saved My Life,” will have its premiere at Regal Destiny USA with two showings at 6:30 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. While the first screening is sold out, some seats remain for the second showing.

Additionally, a Metallica pop-up shop will open on Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Westcott Theater, offering exclusive merchandise such as concert posters, event tees, a skateboard, and a special orange-and-blue splatter vinyl pressing of their latest album, “72 Seasons.” Fans can also participate in a contest for a chance to win prizes, including “Snake Pit” passes for the concert.

In conjunction with the festivities, master distiller Rob Dietrich will host a meet-and-greet at the TisMart Cigar Shop and Lounge on Friday from 4 to 8 p.m., celebrating the band’s Blackened American Whiskey.

Moreover, the “Syracuse Takeover” event includes blood drives in partnership with the American Red Cross on Thursday and Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., where donors will receive a free Metallica shirt. An All Within My Hands volunteer opportunity is also scheduled for Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Food Bank of Central New York.

This concert will mark Metallica’s first in Syracuse in nearly three decades and their first performance at the JMA Dome, making it a significant stop on their M72 world tour. The band, featuring members James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Robert Trujillo, and Kirk Hammett, is renowned for its substantial impact on the heavy metal genre and its extensive catalog, which includes iconic songs such as “Enter Sandman,” “Nothing Else Matters,” and “Master of Puppets.”

Easter is just around the corner, and if you’re still searching for the perfect dish for your Sunday brunch, look no further. Andrew Brow from the Wyckoff Country Club has an exquisite recipe for a ham glazed with root beer, rum, and raisins. This unique combination promises to deliver a rich flavor and elevate your festive gathering.

For further details on the recipe, you can check out the original post here.

CANTON, Ohio — Gervasi Spirits has made a remarkable mark at the 2025 U.S. Open Whiskey and Spirits Championships, receiving two prestigious awards. The Canton distillery was honored as the Grand National Champion in the spirits division and secured the runner-up spot in the Whiskey Championship, marking a historic achievement as the first distillery ever to be recognized on both podiums in the competition’s history.

The competitive event drew participants from across the country, and Gervasi’s portfolio was celebrated with a total of nine medals. The medal breakdown is as follows:

• Whiskey Division: 2 Gold, 2 Silver, 1 Bronze
• Spirits Division: 2 Gold, 1 Silver, 1 Bronze

Among the standout entries, Gervasi’s Wine Barrel Bourbon, Small Batch Gin, and Spiced Rum each earned Gold medals. Additionally, Rum Barrel Bourbon, Maple Cask Bourbon, and Giava (a coffee spirit) received Silver medals, while Honey Heat Whiskey and Winter White Whiskey took home Bronze honors.

“This recognition is a testament to the passion, precision, and innovation of our Head Distiller Shae Pridemore and Assistant Distiller Michael Phillips,” said Scott Swaldo, CEO of Gervasi Vineyard and Gervasi Spirits. “To be recognized among the nation’s finest in both whiskey and spirits is an incredible honor—and it reflects our deep commitment to crafting exceptional, world-class products right here in Ohio.”

Other Ohio distilleries also gained recognition at the event:

2025 U.S. Open Whiskey Championship Winners:

• Small Batch Bourbon 4-10 Years Over 100 proof:

  • GOLD – Karrikin Spirits – Orion’s Reserve
  • SILVER – Northern Row Brewery & Distillery – Northern Liberties Whiskey Co.

• Single Barrel Whiskey:

  • GOLD – Knox Joseph Distillery – Knox Joseph Straight Bourbon Whiskey

• Rye Whiskey – Under 100 Proof:

  • SILVER – Karrikin Spirit – Rye Whiskey

• Craft Whiskey:

  • BRONZE – Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery – Rubicon Creek Myth

• Anything Goes:

  • GOLD – Iron Vault Distillery – FrankenBlend

2025 U.S. Open Spirits Championship Winners:

• Traditional Moonshine:

  • GOLD – Pap’s Hilltop Distillery – Copperas Mountain Corn
  • SILVER – Flatrock Distilling Company – Flatrock Sweet Corn Moonshine

• Flavored Moonshine:

  • GOLD – Pap’s Hilltop Distillery – Caramel Apple Pie Moonshine

• Barrel-Aged Gin:

  • BRONZE – Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery – Harpers Armagnac Gin

• Specialty Spirits:

  • GOLD – Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery – Gypsy Queen

A complete list of winners is available here.

CANTON, Ohio — Gervasi Spirits has achieved remarkable success at the 2025 U.S. Open Whiskey and Spirits Championships, securing two prestigious awards: the Grand National Champion in the spirits division and the runner-up in the highly competitive Whiskey Championship. This historic achievement makes Gervasi the first distillery ever to reach the podium in both categories.

The competition drew distilleries from across the country, and Gervasi stood out by earning a total of nine medals, broken down as follows:

• Whiskey Division: 2 Gold, 2 Silver, 1 Bronze
• Spirits Division: 2 Gold, 1 Silver, 1 Bronze

Among the standout entries were Gervasi’s Wine Barrel Bourbon, Small Batch Gin, and Spiced Rum, each winning Gold. Additionally, Rum Barrel Bourbon, Maple Cask Bourbon, and Giava (a coffee spirit) received Silver awards, while Honey Heat Whiskey and Winter White Whiskey were awarded Bronze.

“This recognition is a testament to the passion, precision, and innovation of our Head Distiller Shae Pridemore and Assistant Distiller Michael Phillips,” commented Scott Swaldo, CEO of Gervasi Vineyard and Gervasi Spirits. “To be recognized among the nation’s finest in both whiskey and spirits is an incredible honor—and it reflects our deep commitment to crafting exceptional, world-class products right here in Ohio.”

Other local winners in the competition included:

2025 U.S. Open Whiskey Championship Medal Results

• Small Batch Bourbon 4-10 Years Over 100 proof

  • GOLD – Karrikin Spirits – Orion’s Reserve
  • SILVER – Northern Row Brewery & Distillery – Northern Liberties Whiskey Co.

• Single Barrel Whiskey

  • GOLD – Knox Joseph Distillery – Knox Joseph Straight Bourbon Whiskey

• Rye Whiskey – Under 100 Proof

  • SILVER – Karrikin Spirits – Rye Whiskey

• Craft Whiskey

  • BRONZE – Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery – Rubicon Creek Myth

• Anything Goes

  • GOLD – Iron Vault Distillery – FrankenBlend

2025 U.S. Open Spirits Championship

• Traditional Moonshine

  • GOLD – Pap’s Hilltop Distillery – Copperas Mountain Corn
  • SILVER – Flatrock Distilling Company – Flatrock Sweet Corn Moonshine

• Flavored Moonshine

  • GOLD – Pap’s Hilltop Distillery – Caramel Apple Pie Moonshine

• Barrel-Aged Gin

  • BRONZE – Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery – Harpers Armagnac Gin

• Specialty Spirits

  • GOLD – Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery – Gypsy Queen

• Other Spirits

  • BRONZE – Agave – Karrikin Spirits – Blaze

A complete list of winners is available here.

Bomb City Distillery in Amarillo, Texas, celebrated a significant milestone with the launch of its first bourbon whiskey, marking an expansion from its successful vodka production. The distillery held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to unveil this new product that has been aging for over two years. Available in limited quantities, the initial offerings include 251 bottles of 750ml and 36 bottles of 375ml.

Established on July 16, 2019, Bomb City Distillery is known as the first distillery in the Texas Panhandle. The name "Bomb City" pays homage to Amarillo’s connection to the Pantex Plant, which specializes in the assembly and disassembly of nuclear weapons, influencing the distillery’s identity and community ties.

Owner Kyle Michels expressed enthusiasm for the bourbon, which has a mash bill made from blue corn, winter wheat, and red-malted barley. This unique blend gives the bourbon a distinctive flavor profile, greatly influenced by the region’s temperature variations that enhance the aging in charred oak barrels. “We’re really excited about this bourbon. It’s something special,” Michels stated, emphasizing the craft aspect of the production process.

The distillery first gained recognition with its vodka, distilled 12 times from locally sourced corn and high-purity water, which soon won a silver medal at the New York World Wine & Spirits Competition. Michels noted that branching out into bourbon allows them to attract a different customer base, as bourbon enthusiasts tend to appreciate the flavors of grains and oak.

Bomb City Distillery was conceived by Michels and his late partner Ryan Barnard, who had backgrounds in business and pharmaceutical industries. After becoming inspired by the "Moonshiners" television show, they restored a historic 1947 building for the distillery, preserving its character through the use of original materials.

Reflecting on Barnard’s contribution, Michels mentioned the profound pride he feels in their achievements, stating, "It was always our dream to eventually have a bourbon."

The distillery has quickly become a highlight in Amarillo’s tourism scene, and Michels mentioned plans to distribute their bourbon throughout Texas and eventually on a national scale. “Texas is a big state, so we’ve got a lot of ground to cover,” he said, looking ahead with ambition.

For more information, visit Bomb City Distillery.

Bomb City Distillery, known for its successful vodka, is expanding its offerings with the introduction of its first bourbon whiskey. The distillery celebrated this milestone with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the release of a bourbon that has been aging for over two years. There will be a limited quantity available, with only 251 bottles of 750ml and 36 bottles of 375ml from Barrel Number 2.

Founded on July 16, 2019, Bomb City Distillery is the first distillery in the Texas Panhandle, named after Amarillo’s history with the Pantex Plant, which is involved in nuclear weapons assembly and disassembly. This connection has influenced the distillery’s identity and its relationship with the local community.

Owner Kyle Michels expressed excitement about the release, highlighting the bourbon’s unique mash bill, which includes blue corn, winter wheat, and red-malted barley. The distinct flavor profile is a reflection of the Panhandle’s terroir, shaped by significant temperature variations that enhance its interaction with charred oak barrels.

Michels commented, “We’re really excited about this bourbon. It’s something special… it creates a flavor profile that you won’t find anywhere else.”

The distillery’s journey began with Bomb City Vodka, which received a silver medal at the New York World Wine & Spirits Competition shortly after opening. As they transition to bourbon production, Michels notes the aim to attract a different consumer base who appreciate the distinct tastes that bourbon can offer.

The distillery was established by Michels and Ryan Barnard, who both brought substantial experience in business and pharmaceuticals to their venture. Michels developed the idea after watching “Moonshiners” on TV. They restored a historic 1947 building in Amarillo, maintaining its original charm with reused materials. Following Barnard’s passing, Michels reminisced on their partnership, expressing pride in their accomplishments and reflecting on their shared dream of producing bourbon.

Today, Bomb City Distillery has become a notable part of Amarillo’s tourism and economy, with a tasting room that attracts visitors. The distillery is looking to expand its reach, planning to distribute its bourbon across Texas and eventually nationwide.

Michels stated, “We’re starting with Texas, but we’re hoping to go nationwide in the future. Texas is a big state, so we’ve got a lot of ground to cover.”

Fans of Sprite are eagerly clamoring for the international release of a new mixed drink that combines Absolut Vodka and Sprite Watermelon, which has recently launched in the U.K. Since its debut, social media has been buzzing with excitement, particularly after food blogger Mouthattack shared the news on Instagram.

The fresh flavor has resonated with many, prompting comments like “May god bless this inventor” and “I need this in the US.” There’s a palpable excitement among those who are already imagining enjoying this new mix during summer gatherings.

While there is currently no confirmation that this beverage will be available in the United States, fans hold onto hope. Similar products have made the transition from international markets to American shelves before. For example, canned cocktails featuring Jack Daniel’s and Coca-Cola were initially released in Mexico before expanding to the U.S. This gives fans a glimmer of hope that they’ll soon enjoy this delightful concoction.

For now, American fans can continue to express their enthusiasm online and wait for potential news about the drink’s availability in the states.

Meghann Fahy, known for her role in The White Lotus, shared fond memories of the late Betty White during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on April 8. The two actresses worked together on the Hallmark movie The Lost Valentine in 2011, where Fahy portrayed a younger version of White’s character. Although they didn’t have direct scenes together, Fahy reminisced about White’s legendary habits.

Fahy revealed that White enjoyed vodka on ice and had a fondness for chocolate cake for breakfast, describing her as a true legend for these indulgences. She elaborated, “I think she just sort of moved through life in this amazing way.” Underscoring White’s ability to be extraordinary yet relatable, Fahy expressed how meaningful it was for her to meet the iconic actress early in her career.

Jimmy Kimmel humorously questioned if White was drinking vodka alongside her cake, to which Fahy clarified that the drinks were for outside the set context. Reflecting on White’s life, Fahy stated, "It was so cool for me to meet her… and learn that you can be as incredible as that, and still be so human and not fussy."

In a lighthearted moment, Kimmel noted that one could live a long life drinking vodka and eating cake, leading Fahy to joke that she started this lifestyle at 20, inspired by White’s example. The late actress had previously shared her "recipe for living a long, happy life," which included vodka and hot dogs, along with a focus on positivity.

As they discussed her legacy, Kimmel recalled how Sandra Bullock, White’s co-star in The Proposal, wished her a toast of vodka on ice, embracing the humor and kindness that represented White’s character throughout her life.

Meghann Fahy’s heartfelt tribute reminds us of Betty White not only as a beloved television icon but also as a woman who embraced life with joy and indulgence.

Finishing whiskey is a revered tradition that enhances the character of the base spirit. Among the various finishing techniques, rum casks stand out for their ability to complement whiskey’s grain-driven sweetness with the richer, molasses-driven sweetness of rum. As warmer weather approaches, it’s an ideal time to explore some of the finest rum-finished whiskeys available.

This list focuses solely on those whiskeys finished exclusively in rum casks, highlighting the primary impact of this unique wood on flavor without the influence of other cask types, such as sherry or brandy.

Here are some exceptional rum-finished whiskeys you can find today:

12. Angel’s Envy Rum-Finished Rye

• ABV: 50%
• Average Price: $90
  Angel’s Envy provides a bold nose with notes of maple syrup, candied green apples, and apricots, followed by a palate rich in honeyed rye bread and fresh apricots. The finish features vanilla extract and molasses-drenched golden raisins. Known for setting the standard in finished whiskeys, it remains a go-to choice for newcomers to rye.

11. Redemption Rum Cask Finish Straight Rye Whiskey

• ABV: 46%
• Average Price: $40
  This whiskey exhibits a floral sweetness with notes of peaches and clover honey initially, followed by a palate bursting with tropical fruit flavors and a brief, balanced finish of cinnamon and black tea. It’s an approachable option for those new to rye whiskey.

10. Old Line Double Oak Series American Single Malt Whiskey Finished In Caribbean Rum Casks

• ABV: 50%
• Average Price: $50
  Characterized by sweet barley, mixed fruit, and baking spices, this whiskey’s finish reveals hazelnut spread and a hint of toffee. Its rich flavor profile emphasizes the versatility of American single malts.

9. Starlight Distillery Rum Finished Bourbon Whiskey Selected By Seelbach’s

   • ABV: 58.2%
   • Average Price: $70
     This cask-strength bourbon presents an enticing nose of brandied raisins and vanilla custard, while the palate balances herbal notes and oak complexity. It’s a robust example of the innovative finished whiskeys emerging from the craft distilling scene.

10. Westward Rum Finished American Single Malt Whiskey

    • ABV: 50%
    • Average Price: $100
      Finished in in-house Magdalena Rum casks, this expression offers aromas of stone fruits and honey. Flavor combinations of bruleed sugar and white chocolate truffles create a unique experience deserving of exploration, especially given Westward’s uncertain future.

11. Sagamore Spirit Rum Cask Finish Rye Whiskey

    • ABV: 49%
    • Average Price: $75
      This rye finishes with tropical fruit and spice flourishes, integrating sweetness and spice throughout its tasting journey. It’s a showcase of Maryland’s revitalizing whiskey scene and a must-try for rye enthusiasts.

12. The Left Cross Puncher’s Chance 14-Year-Old Rum-Barrel Finished Bourbon

    • ABV: 48%
    • Average Price: $175
      A vibrant nose reveals green apples and smoked honey, complemented by a palate that balances ripe bananas and allspice. This whiskey reflects the burgeoning quality of celebrity-associated brands.

13. Glenfiddich 21-Year-Old Gran Reserva Single Malt Scotch

    • ABV: 40%
    • Average Price: $300
      Showcasing the harmony between ex-bourbon and Caribbean rum casks, this scotch features notes of sweet barley and spiced apples. It exemplifies how aging can elevate single malts.

14. Chicken Cock Island Rooster Rum Barrel Rye

    • ABV: 47.5%
    • Average Price: $200
      With a rich array of spice and tropical fruit, this rye offers a well-rounded palate marked by sweet allspice and vanilla tones, making it an alluring option for adventurous whiskey drinkers.

15. Bardstown Bourbon Collaborative Series Foursquare Barbados Rum

    • ABV: 55%
    • Average Price: $170
      An ambitious blend of rye and Tennessee whiskey finished in rum casks, this expression’s complexity is tantalizing, channeling notes of mint, nutmeg, and tobacco, showcasing the distillery’s creative approach.

16. Balvenie Caribbean Cask 14-Year Single Malt Scotch Whisky

    • ABV: 43%
    • Average Price: $75
      This expression combines wildflower honey and tropical fruits with a buttery mouthfeel. Balvenie’s thoughtful aging results in a balanced and exemplary rum-finished whiskey.

17. Peerless Rum Barrel Finished Bourbon Whiskey

    • ABV: 53.5%
    • Average Price: $149
      Combining a rich rum influence and bourbon’s inherent qualities, this expression showcases decadent flavors of caramelized bananas and toasted nuts, making it a standout representation of the best qualities from both worlds.

Each of these selections highlights the artistry of marrying whiskey with rum casks, providing unique and memorable tasting experiences.

As Donald Trump unveiled a global tariff plan, Northern Ireland found itself in a particularly precarious position. The U.S. imposed blanket 20% import tariffs on the EU and Ireland, while the U.K. faced 10% retaliatory duties, inadvertently placing Northern Irish exporters, especially whiskey producers, in a competitive spot against their southern rivals.

Northern Ireland, created in 1921 when Ireland split into two entities, overcame decades of conflict known as “The Troubles,” culminating in the 1998 Good Friday Agreement. Since then, it has rebuilt with foreign investments and a skilled workforce, notably hosting major firms like Allstate and Spirit AeroSystems.

A unique situation emerged for Northern Ireland following Brexit: it received special provisions allowing goods to move tariff-free into the EU through the Windsor Framework, maintaining ease of access both to the EU and the rest of the U.K. As tariffs took effect, Northern Irish whiskey, such as Bushmills, became more attractive compared to southern brands like Jameson.

However, Northern Ireland now risks EU retaliation, as its status means goods from outside the EU entering the region could be seen as “at risk” of entering the single market. This could trigger additional tariffs from the EU on goods destined for Northern Ireland if they opt to retaliate against U.S. tariffs.

Local leaders, including DUP leader Gavin Robinson, expressed concerns about the potential fallout, urging the U.K. government to safeguard Northern Ireland’s interests amid these complex trade tensions. According to Bruna Skarica, chief U.K. economist at Morgan Stanley, if further retaliations are avoided, Northern Ireland could enjoy its current advantages. Still, any retaliatory measure could drastically alter the trading landscape.

The uncertainty continues to loom over Northern Ireland’s trade dynamics, with fresh tariffs intensifying existing anxieties regarding major acquisitions, like Boeing’s purchase of Spirit AeroSystems. With interlocking economic and political ties, Northern Ireland’s future remains intricately linked to larger geopolitical currents between the U.S., U.K., and EU.