Liquor-articles 1851

Rye whiskey is experiencing a renaissance, solidifying its place in the U.S. spirits market after a long decline. According to the results of the 2025 New York World Spirits Competition (NYWSC), two distinctive rye whiskeys stood out among the finalists for Best Rye Whiskey, showcasing the ongoing evolution and complexity of this spirit.

K.Luke’s Small Batch Toasted Barrel Rye, crafted by Jonathan Maisano, took home the Best in Class award. Maisano, whose background is in sommelier training, co-founded K.Luke in 2021 with his wife, Jennifer, aiming to create exceptional small-batch blends by sourcing from various Indiana and Kentucky distilleries. His meticulous approach focuses on blending different whiskeys rather than distilling his own, allowing for innovative flavor combinations. The Batch 5 release, which was finished in toasted barrels, boasts a rich flavor profile with notes of rye bread, tobacco, honey, and baking spices, earning high praise from judges. Only 643 bottles were produced, making it a sought-after item for enthusiasts.

On the innovative side, Bespoken’s Alchemist Series Release #012 received a Double Gold Medal. This whiskey utilizes a proprietary finishing technology that accelerates the aging process, allowing the distillers to experiment with toasting techniques in ways previously unimaginable. This cereal-rich concoction, flavored with notes of oatmeal cookie, spices, and autumn fruits, demonstrates Bespoken’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional whiskey production. Although not yet available for public purchase, Bespoken’s innovative approach suggests a significant shift towards more experimental whiskey creations.

The NYWSC results highlight that the future of rye whiskey is bright, built on both a respect for tradition and a drive for innovation. Whether it’s the classic craftsmanship seen at K.Luke or the forward-thinking methods of Bespoken, rye whiskey is evolving—offering fans a delightful array of choices that celebrate both the history and potential of this spirited category.

For more information on the competition, visit New York World Spirits Competition.

Digital sensation Ashish Chanchlani is poised to captivate his audience with his directorial debut, Ekaki, a horror-comedy thriller that promises a delightful mix of laughter and chills. The anticipation is building as the first song, "Rum Rum Rum," is set to release on November 12, heightening excitement among fans.

Known for his comedic timing and storytelling prowess, Ashish is stepping into new territory by not only acting but also directing, producing, and writing this project. The show aims to blend elements of suspense, fear, and humor, a signature style that Ashish has mastered.

Since the teaser’s release, the buzz around Ekaki has escalated, with fans engaging enthusiastically on social media. The forthcoming teaser for "Rum Rum Rum" showcases Ashish and the cast indulging in lively dance moves, hinting at the energetic vibe of the song. Directed by the acclaimed duo Bosco-Caesar and performed by Nakash Aziz, it offers fans a glimpse into the imaginative world of Ekaki.

Behind the scenes, a talented team is collaborating on Ekaki, with Kunal Chhabhria as co-producer, Akash Dodeja as the parallel lead, and Jashan Sirwani serving as the executive producer. Tanish Sirwani, as the creative director, along with co-writer Grishim Nawanii and line producer Ritesh Sadhwani, are all contributing expertise to ensure the project is engaging and entertaining.

Ekaki is slated for a pan-India release in five languages and will premiere on ACV Studios’ YouTube channel on November 27, 2025. As the release of "Rum Rum Rum" draws near, fans are eagerly awaiting a taste of the creativity and energy that Ashish is infusing into this ambitious new venture.

Rumble Inc. shares saw a notable increase on Monday following the release of its third-quarter financial results, alongside several new AI-focused agreements. In Q3, Rumble reported a revenue of $24.76 million, which fell short of the analyst projections of $25.86 million. The company posted a loss of 6 cents per share, which was in line with expectations.

Despite a dip in monthly active users—from 51 million in Q2 to 47 million in Q3—Rumble attributed this drop to seasonal fluctuations and a lack of news and political commentary typical of non-election periods.

In a significant move, Rumble announced its acquisition of Northern Data, aiming to bolster its cloud services and international growth strategy. Following this acquisition, Tether committed to purchasing up to $150 million worth of GPU services over two years and pledged a $100 million advertising agreement with Rumble.

CEO Chris Pavlovski expressed optimism about expanding their partnership with Tether, particularly in the realm of AI, emphasizing a commitment to privacy and resilience.

At the time of publication, shares of Rumble were up by nearly 14% to $6.71. For further details on its financials, Rumble executives are set to discuss Q3 results and new business deals in a conference call later today.

For more information, visit Benzinga Pro and follow updates on Rumble Inc..

Mount Gay Rum has released the fourth installment of its Single Estate Series, known as 25_04, marking a significant addition to its portfolio. This rum is produced entirely from sugarcane harvested during the 2019 growing season and has garnered attention for its quality and limited availability, with only 2,754 bottles produced globally.

The history of the Single Estate Series began in 2015 when Mount Gay acquired the Mount Gay and Oxford Estates, allowing them to control the entire production process from cultivation to bottling. They currently cultivate around 13 sugarcane varieties on their estate, though they still source a portion of their cane from other farms. The 25_04 release is particularly noteworthy as it focuses on a single year’s harvest, allowing for a concentrated flavor profile.

Master Blender Trudiann Branker opted to use high-sugar-content molasses from the 2019 harvest, which underwent an extended fermentation process of nine days, contributing to its unique character. The rum is a blend of two pot still distillations, aged for five years in ex-bourbon barrels, and bottled at 55% ABV.

Tasting notes reveal an intricate blend of vibrant fruits and herbal aromas, including spiced apples, poached pears, and hints of maraschino cherry, along with earthy undertones of alfalfa hay and seasoned oak. The palate is characterized by a medley of flavors, showcasing pears in syrup and a distinctive "salty smokiness." The finish is rich and lingering, making it a true delight for rum aficionados.

With only 312 bottles available in the United States, this limited release carries a suggested retail price of $350, solidifying Mount Gay’s commitment to producing exceptional spirits that emphasize the nuances of sugarcane terroir.

Dessert mashups can be hit or miss, yet the Coconut Cream Pie Tiramisu is a delightful success that combines the best of both worlds. This innovative dessert captures the essence of traditional coconut cream pie while embracing the popular Italian classic, tiramisu, in a no-bake format.

The key ingredients work harmoniously: cream of coconut brings a rich coconut flavor and sweetness, while rum adds a hint of warmth without overshadowing. The mascarpone cheese creates a luscious, creamy texture, and when combined with perfectly soaked ladyfingers, the dish becomes a soft and satisfying treat. Topped with delicate, toasted coconut, it’s an appealing option for any occasion.

Recipe Tips From the Test Kitchen

• Soak ladyfingers in the rum mixture for just 4 seconds; longer will lead to sogginess.
• Leftovers should be wrapped tightly and can be stored in the fridge for up to three days.
• Prepare the rum simple syrup up to five days in advance and refrigerate.
• For a non-alcoholic version, replace coconut rum with coconut water or milk and add rum extract.
• Experiment with nuts like toasted almonds or pecans for an alternate flavor.
• Add toasted graham cracker crumbs on top for a pie-like twist.

Ingredients

• 2/3 cup tap water
• 2/3 cup coconut-flavored rum (such as Bacardi)
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 (15-oz.) can cream of coconut, well stirred (such as Coco Lopez)
• 1 (8-oz.) container mascarpone cheese (such as BelGioioso)
• 1/4 tsp. coconut extract
• 1 1/2 cups cold heavy whipping cream
• 20 ladyfingers (from a 7-oz. package, such as Alessi)
• 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut, toasted

Directions

1. Prepare the Rum Simple Syrup: Combine water and rum in a microwave-safe bowl, heating until bubbling (about 1 minute). Stir in sugar until dissolved. Chill until needed.

2. Mix the Creamy Base: Beat together cream of coconut, mascarpone, and coconut extract in a bowl until smooth. Gradually add the heavy cream, beating until soft peaks form.

3. Assemble: Quickly dip and roll ladyfingers in the rum mixture for 2 seconds per side. Lay soaked ladyfingers in an 8-inch square baking dish. Spread half of the whipped cream mixture over them and sprinkle half of the toasted coconut. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

4. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours to let flavors meld.

This Coconut Cream Pie Tiramisu is not just a dessert; it’s a taste of summer captured in layers of flavor that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Perfect for gatherings or a special treat at home, this dessert is bound to become a favorite.

The Caribbean Coffee is a delightful cocktail that beautifully blends the rich flavors of cold brew coffee with rum, creating a drink that’s perfect for coffee enthusiasts and cocktail lovers alike. This concoction features a mix of cold brew coffee liqueur, espresso, demerara syrup, and dark rum, delivering a sweet yet bitter profile that is both satisfying and complex.

This drink is essentially a twist on the classic Espresso Martini, replacing vodka with Ten To One Dark Rum and using more coffee liqueur to elevate its coffee character. The dark rum adds layers of flavor with its notes of tobacco, leather, vanilla, and baking spices, complementing the coffee base perfectly.

The combination of freshly brewed espresso and high-quality coffee liqueur, such as Mr Black Cold Brew, enhances the depth of coffee flavor, counterbalancing with sweet and fruity notes. Furthermore, using demerara syrup introduces a nutty, caramelized flavor, harmonizing beautifully with the rich rum.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces Ten To One Dark Rum
• 1 ounce cold brew coffee liqueur (e.g., Mr Black)
• 1 ounce brewed espresso
• 1/4 ounce demerara syrup
• Pinch of kosher salt
• Unsweetened cocoa powder, for garnish

Directions

1. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the rum, liqueur, espresso, demerara syrup, and salt. Shake well for about 20 seconds until chilled.
2. Strain the mixture into a martini glass and garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder.

How to Make Demerara Syrup

1. Combine 1/2 cup of demerara sugar with 1/2 cup of water in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature. Store the syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three weeks.

The Caribbean Coffee offers a sophisticated yet simple way to enjoy coffee in cocktail form—perfect for gatherings or a cozy evening at home.

A Bloody Mary is the quintessential savory cocktail, celebrated for its combination of tomato acidity, savory spices, and a touch of heat. This classic drink typically includes staples like Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and tomato juice, making it easy to mix and enjoy. To simplify your brunch experience, we tasted eight popular Bloody Mary mixes and recommend three excellent choices for mixing with vodka or tequila, or even with ice for a refreshing sip.

Selection Process

We selected eight widely available Bloody Mary mixes, focusing on the original flavor variations from each brand, while including a few specialty options. The mixes varied in packaging—from single-serve cans to larger bottles.

Testing Method

A panel of seven Food & Wine editors participated in the tasting process. To best evaluate the flavor profiles, we tasted each mix chilled and on its own—without added vodka or other flavorings. Each mix was scored on a scale from 1 to 5, based on flavor and texture. We assessed for vibrant tomato flavors, a balance of acidity, sweetness, and savoriness, as well as an appealing texture that was not overly thick or too watery.

Results

Best Overall: The Real Dill Original Bloody Mary Mix

The standout mix was The Real Dill, which impressed our tasters with its fresh tomato flavor, complex herbaceous notes, and a peppery kick complemented by a tangy pickle essence. The mix includes cucumber, habaneros, vinegar, and various herbs. Its unique texture, featuring bits of dill and garlic, set it apart. Developed initially from a cucumber-infused water byproduct of their pickle production, The Real Dill has established a reputation for its flavorful varieties.

Best Classic: Tabasco Brand Classic Bloody Mary Mix

Surprisingly, the tabasco brand, known for its hot sauce, presented a well-balanced Bloody Mary mix. It offered subtle pepper notes, a spicy backbone, and fruit-forward tomato flavors, complemented by a kick of celery seasoning. This mix was notably saltier than others, making it ideal for batch mixing at parties, especially when paired with additional dashes of Tabasco sauce for extra heat.

Best Base: Zing Zang Bloody Mary Mix

Zing Zang has earned praise as a favorite for its mix of tomato and vegetable juices along with a carefully curated blend of spices, including onion and celery seed. Although slightly thicker on its own, when combined with vodka or tequila, it yields a perfectly textured drink. Tasters appreciated its savory and salty profile, noting the distinct Worcestershire flavor.

Full Rankings

1. The Real Dill Original Bloody Mary Mix
2. Tabasco Brand Classic Bloody Mary Mix
3. Zing Zang Bloody Mary Mix
4. Hella Cocktail Co. Bloody Mary
5. Fever-Tree Classic Bloody Mary Mix
6. Q Mixers Bloody Mary Mix
7. Mr & Mrs T Original Bloody Mary Mix
8. V8 Bloody Mary Mix

For more insights and details, you can check out the original article on Food & Wine.

The San Antonio Spurs have announced the unveiling of a unique Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey Barrel Tree at the Frost Bank Center during their game against the Houston Rockets on November 7. This special tree is one of only 13 whiskey barrel trees in the United States and is part of an initiative to create excitement and promote the spirit of giving throughout the holiday season. The display will be in the outdoor ULTRA Club and is set to remain until January 7.

Mike Brown, Senior General Manager for Brown-Forman Texas, expressed pride in partnering with the Spurs to bring this tradition to the community. He emphasized the initiative’s aim to raise funds for Operation Ride Home, which helps military members reunite with their families during the holidays.

Fans attending the game will have the opportunity to purchase barrels from the tree, with 100% of the proceeds going directly to Operation Ride Home. Additionally, the Spurs and Jack Daniel’s plan to host sampling events and branded giveaways while honoring military families at select home games throughout the holiday period.

It’s a bit early for holiday festivities, but cocktail enthusiasts can already enjoy seasonal drinks with the arrival of the Sippin’ Santa and Miracle pop-up cocktail menus. This year, Jeff "Beachbum" Berry has launched the Sippin’ Santa experience at his French Quarter bar, Latitude 29, just ahead of Thanksgiving.

The Sippin’ Santa menu includes new cocktails like "Wreck the Halls," which combines Caribbean overproof rum, tawny port, lime, maple and vanilla syrups, along with figgy bitters. Another highlight is the "Nui Nui New Year," a sharing drink that mixes vodka or rum with allspice liqueur, lime, orange, and a spice mix of cinnamon and more.

In addition to these new offerings, longtime fans of Berry’s tiki-style drinks can expect a range of cocktails featuring Caribbean rum, tequila, bourbon, and vodka. Returning favorites include "Jingle Bird," which consists of bourbon, Campari, pineapple, and lime, and "Holiday on Ice," made with vodka, cold brew, condensed milk, and ancho chili liqueur. There are also Secret Santa specials and two non-alcoholic options available.

The Sippin’ Santa menu will also be available starting November 17 at Pelican to Mars in Baton Rouge and at more than 60 locations across the U.S., from Florida to California.

On a larger scale, the Miracle menu, renowned for its festive twist on classic cocktails, will be featured at Barrel Proof and nearly 200 bars nationwide. This year’s offerings include "Dancing Sugarplums," which architects a blend of gin, plum wine, limoncello, plum milk syrup, and nutmeg, alongside returning drinks like the "Koala Lalala," melding blanco tequila with dry vermouth, apple liqueur, tamarind, and mint.

The Miracle cocktails can be enjoyed at Barrel Proof beginning November 18 and will also be featured at One Thirteen in Hammond, The Station in Baton Rouge, and Pamplona Tapas & Bar in Lafayette.

For further details on Sippin’ Santa, visit the official website. For the Miracle menu, check out their website.

Ketel One Vodka has introduced a new addition to its popular lineup with the launch of the Ketel One Lemon Drop Martini. This ready-to-serve cocktail aims to make it easier for consumers to enjoy this classic drink without the hassle of mixing ingredients.

The Lemon Drop Martini, characterized by its citrusy flavor reminiscent of lemonade, is not just a summer treat; fans appreciate it year-round for its bright notes that can lift spirits in any season. This new product is part of Ketel One’s effort to expand its offerings of flavored and sugar-free spirits, as well as ready-to-serve cocktails.

The ready-to-pour cocktail combines real lemon juice with a hint of sweetness from triple sec, presenting a perfect balance of tartness and smoothness. To enjoy, it is recommended to chill the drink before serving. Simply shake the bottle, pour it into a martini glass, and add a lemon twist for garnish.

Available in two sizes—350 mL and 750 mL—with prices around $13.99 and $25.99 respectively, the Lemon Drop Martini offers four to eight servings per bottle. It has received positive feedback from consumers, who are already labeling it a "must buy."

You can find the Ketel One Lemon Drop Martini at liquor stores nationwide, including Total Wine and The Bar.com.