Liquor-articles 1852

In 2021, Arby’s made headlines by introducing two unconventional vodka flavors inspired by their famous fries: crinkle-cut and curly fry vodka. Partnering with Minnesota-based Tattersall Distilling, they aimed to creatively market both fry options, highlighting their value to Arby’s menu.

The venture generated buzz, especially since many might find the idea of fry-flavored vodka unusual. However, potato vodka is a known category, and Tattersall, a respected distillery, emphasized quality in the production. To promote their new product, Arby’s enlisted celebrity chef Justin Sutherland to develop a Bloody Mary recipe featuring both vodkas, incorporating menu items like mozzarella sticks.

For a limited time, the unique vodkas were available on a designated website, where fans had to verify their birthdates to purchase. The overall reception of the fry vodkas was mixed, with many reviews praising their savory complexity, particularly in cocktails such as Bloody Marys, often idealized with Arby’s Horsey sauce.

This bold move into the alcohol market marked one of the more bizarre yet intriguing attempts by a fast food chain to expand its brand beyond traditional offerings.

For more details, read the original article on Tasting Table.

There are numerous aspects of life that connect humanity, including a shared passion for cocktails. Cocktails hold a significant place in global culture, particularly vodka, a spirit appreciated for its versatility. Vodka’s neutrality allows it to be combined with various flavors from around the world, creating unique drinking experiences.

To deepen our understanding of this beloved spirit, we consulted several experts in the field: Claire Mallett from Catch One LA, Mark Simmonds from Broken Shed Vodka, Jennifer Jackson from Thompson Hotels, Ross Hensley from Aspen Vodka, and Sean Kenyon from Blue Collar Cocktails. They shared insights on vodka cocktails that have gained popularity across different cultures, highlighting drinks that every cocktail enthusiast should try.

One such drink is the Gimlet. Traditionally made with gin, it swaps the base spirit for vodka to showcase the spirit’s rich taste. Simmonds notes that the vodka gimlet allows for an appreciation of quality vodka, making this variant increasingly popular.

The Kamikaze is another notable cocktail, originally served as a shooter but easily adapted into a traditional cocktail. It features vodka, lime juice, and orange liqueur. By reinterpreting the kamikaze as a more sophisticated drink, you can enjoy it as a martini-style cocktail.

The Dirty Martini exemplifies the embrace of vodka in American cocktail culture, thanks in large part to the influence of James Bond’s favored drink. Mallett emphasizes its simplicity, recommending a chilled vodka martini with a rinse of dry vermouth and a splash of olive juice.

For those wanting a taste of India, the Kukur Tihar cocktail combines vodka with olive juice, grapefruit juice, and cardamom bitters, showcasing aromatic flavors of the region.

Australia’s beloved Espresso Martini takes the traditional espresso cocktail up a notch with local coffee liqueur, resulting in a sweeter and creamier drink.

The Scottish Pete’s Martini pays homage to the spirit’s regional adaptations, using Scotch whisky in place of vermouth, creating a depth of flavor while maintaining vodka’s spirit.

The classic Cosmopolitan, made famous by "Sex and the City," combines vodka with Cointreau, cranberry juice, and fresh lime juice, solidifying its status as a cocktail staple around the globe.

The brunch classic, the Bloody Mary, originally created in Paris, has become a beloved fixture in brunch menus worldwide, featuring vodka and a savory tomato juice blend.

Lastly, the Vesper Martini mixes gin with vodka, creating a luxurious twist on the traditional Martini, inspired by James Bond.

Each of these cocktails represents the unique way vodka has been embraced and adapted around the world, serving as both a cultural touchstone and a blank canvas for creativity in mixology.

Shoppers appreciate Costco for its remarkable deals, particularly in its spirits section, highlighted by an impressive selection of whiskies. Whether you’re a fan of Scotch and Japanese whisky or the "e" varieties from America and Ireland, Costco offers an extensive array of bottles catering to diverse palates.

As a long-time bartender and whisky enthusiast, I found myself pondering whether Costco is indeed the ideal destination for purchasing whisky. The retailer certainly stocks a well-curated selection, including larger bottles that are often difficult to find in regular liquor stores. This led me to investigate whether the prices merit a special trip and identify which brands are worth purchasing.

Using my Costco membership and experience in alcohol sales, I set out to determine which whiskies are the best buys. Below, I list six brands to consider and six to pass on during your next Costco visit.

Best Values

1. Kirkland Signature: Costco’s own brand, Kirkland, provides excellent value, offering whiskies that are often compared to iconic brands like Crown Royal and Jameson. Its Scotch selections are particularly notable, giving whisky lovers a wallet-friendly way to explore various styles.

2. Johnnie Walker: As one of the most recognized Scotch brands globally, Johnnie Walker offers a variety of blends that are well-priced at Costco, making it an excellent stop for fans of this iconic whisky.

3. Glengoyne: This single malt Scotch is not only competitively priced but also well-regarded for its flavor profile. The 10-year-aged version is particularly appealing for those new to single malts.

4. Four Roses: Renowned for its exceptional bourbon quality, Four Roses is competitively priced at Costco, outperforming many competitors for value and taste.

5. Buffalo Trace: Known for its high-quality bourbon, Buffalo Trace’s pricing at Costco is lower compared to many other retailers, reinforcing its place as a top choice.

6. Sazerac: This rye whiskey is celebrated for its flavor and complexity. At Costco, it’s frequently available at prices lower than other stores, making it a prime choice for both sipping and mixing.

Worst Values

1. Jameson: While popular, this Irish whiskey is easily found elsewhere at similar or even lower prices. There’s little incentive to make a special trip to Costco for it.

2. Mars Iwai: Although unique, its pricing at Costco does not offer a significant advantage over other retailers where better-quality options may be found.

3. Crown Royal: Like Jameson, this Canadian whisky is a common fixture in liquor stores, often offered at comparable prices. Kirkland’s own Canadian blend is a better value alternative.

4. Jack Daniel’s: As a household name, this Tennessee whiskey’s price at Costco is not particularly competitive compared to the multitude of outlets where it can be found at a similar rate.

5. Jim Beam: While it can be a decent choice for cocktails, its price at Costco is comparable to other retailers, diminishing the need to purchase it from Costco specifically.

6. Bulleit: Although solid, Bulleit’s bourbons and ryes can frequently be found at better values from other brands available at Costco.

Methodology

To compile this list, I assessed the whisky offerings at Costco against those at other retailers. My first-hand experience, along with professional and customer reviews, guided my evaluations of both price and quality. The "worst value" labels denote brands that can be easily sourced elsewhere, while "best value" designations highlight those worth seeking out at Costco.

Keep in mind that alcohol availability and prices can fluctuate, so it’s a good idea to check your local store for the most current offerings.

Traveller Whiskey, recognized as the first official whiskey of Major League Baseball (MLB), has launched a national campaign titled “Welcome to the Show” just in time for the postseason. This cinematic advertisement, narrated by Chris Stapleton, a co-founder of the whiskey brand and an 11-time Grammy Award-winning country artist, made its debut during the National League Championship Series opener featuring the Dodgers and Brewers, and was also showcased before Game Two of the American League Championship Series between the Mariners and Blue Jays.

The campaign represents a significant milestone in the collaboration between Traveller Whiskey and MLB, featuring notable baseball highlights displayed on clubhouse and dugout screens. Stapleton’s narration captures the essence of an athlete’s arduous journey to the major leagues, stating, “Some moments take years to earn… Perfecting the craft… Seasons of dedication…” The advertisement culminates with an illuminated bottle of Traveller Whiskey beneath stadium lights, sealing the sentiment with Stapleton’s impactful closing words: “Welcome to The Show.”

Traveller Whiskey is a blended whiskey co-created by Master Distiller Harlan Wheatley from Buffalo Trace Distillery and Chris Stapleton himself. The partnership with MLB was established prior to the 2024 season, marking Traveller as the inaugural whiskey brand to receive such an official designation. The collaboration aims to merge baseball’s deep-rooted tradition of craftsmanship with the whiskey experience, inviting fans aged 21 and older to enjoy a toast to the game.

Stapleton has expressed his heartfelt connection to baseball culture, sharing that attending games on tour has morphed into a cherished tradition for him and his wife. They even celebrated their anniversary at Game Six of the World Series, reinforcing his excitement for Traveller Whiskey’s role as MLB’s Official Whiskey.

As this postseason unfolds, it marks the first fully integrated campaign for Traveller with the league, with plans to enhance its presence in various league events, including stadium experiences and broadcast integrations. "Welcome to the Show" serves as a poignant reminder to fans that baseball embodies a journey just as significant as the ultimate destination, much like the whiskey we savor.

Relevant Links:

• Traveller Whiskey
• Chris Stapleton
• MLB
• Welcome To The Show

Everyone may not be into whiskey, but everyone has a zodiac sign. This connection means there’s a whiskey cocktail that corresponds to each personality, many of which you might not have tried yet. Ranging from Prohibition-era classics to modern creations and including a variety of flavors from sweet to smoky, whiskey cocktails appeal to diverse tastes. Whether you’re well-versed in whiskey or just starting out, there’s surely a drink that aligns with your sign.

Using your zodiac sign, you can discover a whiskey cocktail matched to your personality traits. This isn’t the only cocktail you should explore but serves as a gateway for whiskey enthusiasts to both reaffirm their favorites and try something new. You might just uncover a drink that surprises you.

Aries: Old Fashioned

Aries are known for their competitive nature and love for being first. Their cocktail is the classic Old Fashioned—one of the oldest cocktails around—made with whiskey, bitters, and sugar. Its enduring popularity matches Aries’ boldness and ambition.

Taurus: Whiskey and Tonic

Tauruses value stability and routine. Their drink is a simple whiskey and tonic, reliable across any bar. The dryness of tonic pairs well, making it a versatile choice.

Gemini: Whiskey Sour

Geminis are playful and sociable, making the Whiskey Sour—both sweet and sour—fit them perfectly. Its combination of sugar, tart lemon, and a frothy finish reflects their multifaceted personalities.

Cancer: Atholl Brose

Cancers are empathetic but may appear hard to approach. They’d enjoy an Atholl Brose, a creamy and sweet Scottish whiskey cocktail. Its comforting nature aligns with their preference for solace and home.

Leo: Lynchburg Lemonade

Leos have vibrant personalities and love to celebrate life. Their summer cocktail is the Lynchburg Lemonade, a refreshing mix of whiskey and lemon-lime soda, making it perfect for outdoor gatherings.

Virgo: Ward Eight

Virgos, known for their meticulousness, would opt for a Ward Eight—a versatile cocktail made with whiskey and citrus juices. Its adaptable nature allows for multiple interpretations, encouraging Virgos to step out of their comfort zones.

Libra: Whiskey Highball

Libras strive for balance, much like the harmonious blend of whiskey and ginger ale found in a Whiskey Highball. This drink encapsulates their desire for simplicity and elegance.

Scorpio: Irish Coffee

Scorpios are enigmatic, making the dark and mysterious Irish Coffee their perfect match. This cocktail offers a blend of whiskey and coffee, embodying their tendency to dwell in the deeper aspects of life.

Sagittarius: Mint Julep

Sagittarians are adventurers. Their cocktail choice, the Mint Julep, reflects their free spirit with its refreshing combination of bourbon and mint. This drink resonates with their optimistic outlook.

Capricorn: Fancy Whiskey Cocktail

Capricorns are known for their ambition and love for structure. Their drink, a "fancy" whiskey cocktail, consists of whiskey mixed with sweeter components like orange liqueur—balancing their work-focused nature with a touch of indulgence.

Aquarius: Boulevardier

Aquarians value individuality and innovation. The Boulevardier—a whiskey take on the Negroni—challenges the norm, aligning with their desire to break free from convention.

Pisces: Manhattan

Pisces embody intuition and emotional depth. Their cocktail, the classic Manhattan, represents the culmination of wisdom from the signs that precede them. Its versatility allows for countless variations, offering Piscean creativity a chance to shine.

Try the whiskey cocktail that matches your zodiac sign at your local bar or market for a delightful exploration of flavors!

The Glenlivet, a renowned distillery established in 1824, is introducing its latest creation in a new series named "Beyond Speyside." This series will expand its globally recognized 12-Year-Old single malt whisky with unique cask finishes inspired by various international spirits.

The inaugural release, called The Glenlivet 12 Year Old Jamaica Edition, Treasure Beach, is finished in casks that previously held high-ester Jamaican rum. This innovative approach aims to merge the classic Glenlivet profile with the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean, creating new taste experiences. Kevin Balmforth, the distillery’s cask master, stated that Jamaica was chosen for its vibrancy and originality, which align well with the whisky’s character.

As part of this transformation, the Jamaica Edition begins as a standard 12-year-old Glenlivet before undergoing secondary maturation that allows it to absorb the rum’s tropical flavors. The rum casks utilized, noted for their fruity essences, include notes of pineapple, banana, and toffee, all of which were carefully balanced to enhance the whisky’s profile without losing its Speyside essence.

The Jamaica Edition boasts aromas of fresh mango and pineapple with hints of coconut, while the palate reveals juicy pineapple sweetness paired with rich vanilla and a smooth caramel finish. It is recommended to enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, especially the signature Banana Old Fashioned.

Available at $55 for a limited time, this edition marks the beginning of a journey that will continue with future releases, reflecting a broader exploration of flavors around the globe. Thomas Doherty, a Scottish actor, is collaborating with Glenlivet for a digital campaign to promote this new venture, along with a travel-inspired capsule collection designed by Jamaican-Scottish designer Nicholas Daley, expected to launch in 2026.

For more information, visit The Glenlivet.

Jungle juice is a popular punchbowl drink that blends multiple alcohols with juices and chopped fruit, creating a fun and flavorful concoction perfect for parties. Typically originating from college gatherings, this drink allows for creativity by using leftover alcohol and various mixers.

Julianna McIntosh, owner and mixologist of Join_Jules, explains that jungle juice mixes different types of alcohol with sugary additives like juices and fruits. Its charm lies in the fact that there’s no single correct recipe—everyone can create their own version using whatever ingredients they have on hand.

Choosing Alcohol for Jungle Juice

McIntosh suggests starting with a neutral spirit, such as vodka or Everclear, as a base, allowing for flexibility in flavor. She recommends adding rum for a tropical flair and notes that dark rum is her go-to choice: “When I think of jungle juice, I think tropical,” says McIntosh.

A cautionary note she provides is to avoid using Kool-Aid packets, especially with Everclear, as it masks the alcohol’s flavor.

Ingredients for Jungle Juice

Here’s a recommended list for making a substantial batch (serves 15 to 20 people):

• One bottle of white rum
• One bottle of dark rum
• One bottle of Everclear (optional)
• Five to eight lemons, limes, and oranges (quartered)
• One pineapple (sliced)
• 3 tablespoons of allspice
• 5-7 cinnamon sticks
• 1 liter of prune or pomegranate juice
• 1 liter of orange juice
• 1 liter of pineapple juice
• Ice (for serving)

It’s preferable to make juices fresh rather than purchasing them, as McIntosh claims that homemade juices taste better.

Steps to Prepare Jungle Juice

1. Start with Alcohol: Pour in your desired alcohol first to get an idea of how much juice to add.
2. Add Fruits and Spices: Include the quartered fruits and spices, allowing them to infuse their flavors into the alcohol, similar to how one would prepare sangria.
3. Mix in Juices: Incorporate your choice of juices, mixing well. Serve with ice on the side to prevent dilution.

To enhance the drink’s liveliness during serving, McIntosh advises adding a liter or two of club soda or sparkling water, which adds carbonation without compromising flavor.

Variations of Jungle Juice

• For a tropical version, use an assortment of rums and add a banana simple syrup.
• Create a non-alcoholic mocktail for younger guests, adding fun candies like Sour Patch Kids or gummy bears.
• Consider garnishing with fresh herbs such as rosemary or sage for a refined touch.

Storing Jungle Juice

If you have leftovers, store the jungle juice in an airtight container like a Mason jar in the refrigerator, where it will remain good for three to four days. Spritzing with club soda can help refresh the drink each time it’s served.

Conclusion

Jungle juice is an easy and adaptable party beverage, inviting creativity in its preparation. Combining rum, vodka, or any neutral spirit with juice and fruit will lead to a lively punch bowl. McIntosh emphasizes the importance of freshness in ingredients but reassures that whatever you have on hand will work just fine.

Rum is a versatile spirit distilled primarily from sugar, most often molasses. Its origins trace back to the Caribbean in the early 1700s, where molasses was originally seen as a waste product from sugar production. However, innovative individuals discovered it could be fermented and distilled, leading to rum’s rise in popularity, particularly among sailors and pirates.

As a spirit bound with the history of colonization and trade, rum gained traction during Prohibition when many Americans flocked to tropical destinations like Cuba for their fix. Today, the world of rum is rich with diverse styles shaped by regional traditions, each imparting unique flavors to cocktails.

What Type of Rum Should You Use?

Rum lacks strict regulations compared to spirits like bourbon, which allows for a wide array of expressions. Rums come in different styles, including rhum agricole from Martinique, which has a grassy and citrusy flavor, and Jamaican rum, known for its distinct funkiness thanks to its unique fermentation process. The flavor profile of your rum can drastically change your cocktail, making it essential to choose the right type for each recipe.

Classic Rum Cocktail Recipes

Here are 13 popular rum cocktails, alongside their fascinating backstories:

1. Daiquiri

   • Ingredients: 2 oz. white rum, 1 oz. lime juice, 3/4 oz. simple syrup.
   • The classic daiquiri is a simple combination of rum, lime juice, and sugar, often served shaken, not blended.

2. Zombie

   • Ingredients: 1 ½ oz. Puerto Rican rum, 1 ½ oz. Jamaican rum, 1 oz. overproof rum, ¾ oz. lime juice, among others.
   • Created in 1934 by Donn Beach, this tiki cocktail is known for its fruity flavors and potent kick.

3. Mojito

   • Ingredients: 2 oz. rum, ½ lime, 1 oz. simple syrup, 8-10 mint leaves, 2-4 oz. soda water.
   • A refreshing Cuban classic that incorporates mint and lime, popularized by Ernest Hemingway.

4. Mai Tai

   • Ingredients: 1 oz. dark Jamaican rum, 1 oz. rhum agricole, 1 oz. lime juice, and more.
   • Developed by cocktail legend Trader Vic in 1944, this drink has a rich history and complex flavors.

5. Dark and Stormy

   • Ingredients: 2 oz. dark rum, ½ oz. lime juice, ginger beer.
   • A simple yet delicious cocktail made predominantly with Goslings Black Seal rum, famous for its dark layers.

6. Ti’ Punch

   • Ingredients: 2 oz. rhum agricole, 1 bar spoon cane syrup, 1 lime disc.
   • The national drink of Martinique, this cocktail highlights the pure essence of rhum agricole.

7. Jungle Bird

   • Ingredients: 1 ½ oz. dark rum, 1 ½ oz. pineapple juice, ¾ oz. Campari, and more.
   • Originating from the Kuala Lumpur Hilton in the 1970s, this cocktail blends tropical sweetness with bitter notes.

8. Mary Pickford

   • Ingredients: 2 oz. light rum, 1 oz. pineapple juice, ¼ oz. maraschino liqueur, ¼ oz. grenadine.
   • This cocktail was created in the 1920s in Havana in honor of actress Mary Pickford.

9. Piña Colada

   • Ingredients: 1 oz. light rum, 1 oz. Jamaican rum, 1 ½ oz. pineapple juice, ½ oz. coconut cream.
   • A treasured tropical drink, believed to have originated in Puerto Rico in the 1950s.

10. El Presidente

    • Ingredients: 1 ½ oz. rum, 1 ½ oz. blanc vermouth, ¼ oz. dry curaçao, and more.
    • A Cuban creation that combines elements of both a martini and a Manhattan.

11. Corn ‘n Oil

    • Ingredients: 1 oz. blackstrap rum, ¾ oz. Jamaican rum, and more.
    • A historic Caribbean drink that highlights the richness of blackstrap rum.

12. Hotel Nacional

    • Ingredients: 2 oz. white rum, ½ oz. apricot liqueur, 1 oz. pineapple juice, ½ oz. lime juice.
    • Named after the famous Hotel Nacional in Havana, this cocktail has a vibrant and fruity profile.

13. Blackbird

    • Ingredients: ¾ oz. gold Jamaican rum, ¾ oz. Campari, and more.
    • A modern cocktail variation combining coffee and tropical flavors, created by Mr. Black’s Stephen Kurpinsky.

Insider’s Takeaway

For a taste of the tropics, rum cocktails like mai tais and ti’ punch serve as perfect escape vehicles. While the daiquiri remains the quintessential rum cocktail, showcasing the spirit’s simplicity and elegance, the diversity in rum styles offers an array of flavors to explore.

Vodka is one of the world’s oldest and most cherished spirits, renowned for its versatility and neutrality. While its origins trace back to Eastern Europe, likely around modern-day Poland, vodka has carved out a substantial niche in cocktail culture, owing much of its popularity to its adaptability. The spirit is most commonly distilled from various starches, allowing for creative and diverse cocktail options.

Historically, vodka was initially enjoyed neat but gained momentum as a cocktail base after the repeal of prohibition in 1933. It quickly became associated with various cocktails that catered to the tastes of nightlife and social scenes. Its flexibility in mixing with other ingredients is often discussed by experts like Leandro DiMonriva, who emphasizes that the other flavors in a vodka drink are typically more pronounced than the vodka itself.

For those looking to explore vodka cocktails, here are 13 classic recipes that represent both history and innovation in vodka mixology:

1. Moscow Mule

   • Ingredients: 2 oz. Vodka, 4 oz. Ginger beer, ¾ oz. Lime juice, Lime wedge for garnish.
   • This cocktail was popularized in the 1940s and is served in a copper mug, enhancing the drinking experience.

2. White Russian

   • Ingredients: 2 oz. Vodka, 1 oz. Coffee liqueur, 1 oz. Heavy cream.
   • Made famous by "The Dude" in "The Big Lebowski", it’s a simple yet creamy delight.

3. Harvey Wallbanger

   • Ingredients: 2 oz. Vodka, 4 oz. Orange juice, ¼ oz. Galliano, Orange slice for garnish.
   • This drink, often linked to the disco era, adds a touch of herbal flavor with Galliano.

4. Salty Dog

   • Ingredients: 2 oz. Vodka, 4 oz. Grapefruit juice, Salt for rim, Lime wheel for garnish.
   • A refreshing summer cocktail; without the salt, it’s known as a Greyhound.

5. Chi Chi

   • Ingredients: 2 oz. Vodka, 4 oz. Pineapple juice, 1 oz. Cream of coconut, Pineapple wedge for garnish.
   • A vodka twist on a piña colada created by Tiki cocktail pioneer Donn Beach.

6. Bloody Mary

   • Ingredients: 2 oz. Vodka, 4 oz. Tomato juice, ¼ oz. Lemon juice, various seasonings, Celery stalk for garnish.
   • Iconic for brunch, Bloody Marys offer endless possibilities for personal flair.

7. Lemon Drop

   • Ingredients: 2 oz. Vodka, 1 oz. Lemon juice, ½ oz. Curaçao, Sugar for rim, Lemon peel for garnish.
   • A sweet and tart cocktail with a sugar-coated rim for easy sipping.

8. Russian Spring Punch

   • Ingredients: 1 oz. Vodka, 3 oz. Champagne, 1 oz. Lemon juice, ½ oz. Crème de cassis, Lemon slice and raspberry for garnish.
   • A refreshing mix from the 1980s that combines vodka with the elegance of champagne.

9. Cosmopolitan

   • Ingredients: 2 oz. Lemon-flavored vodka, ¾ oz. Cointreau, ¾ oz. Lime juice, ¾ oz. Cranberry juice, Citrus twist for garnish.
   • Popularized by "Sex and the City," this cocktail is a balance of sweet and tart.

10. Espresso Martini

    • Ingredients: 2 oz. Vodka, 1 oz. Espresso, ½ oz. Coffee liqueur, Whole coffee beans for garnish.
    • A caffeinated twist perfect for dessert, attributed to bartender Dick Bradsell.

11. Ivy Gimlet

    • Ingredients: 2 oz. Vodka, 1 oz. Lime juice, ¾ oz. Simple syrup, Mint.
    • This variant of the gimlet introduces mint for added complexity.

12. Appletini

    • Ingredients: 1 ½ oz. Vodka, 1 ½ oz. Green apple juice, ½ oz. Lemon juice, Apple slice for garnish.
    • A fruity cocktail that gained popularity in the late 1990s.

13. Cocktail Culture

    • Ingredients: 1 ¾ oz. Vodka, ¾ oz. Honey yogurt, ½ oz. Passion fruit puree, Vanilla syrup.
    • This inventive drink draws inspiration from the Indian yogurt drink lassi.

Vodka’s adaptability makes it an essential ingredient for cocktails across various occasions, from brunch to dinner parties, proving that there’s a vodka cocktail for everyone.

Much to the disappointment of critics, Trump Vodka, launched in 2006, was neither a remarkable product nor a complete disaster. It was a fairly average vodka—pleasant enough when mixed with lime and tonic, but ultimately unremarkable. The beverage was packaged to resemble gold bars and launched with significant fanfare, including high-profile parties featuring celebrities like members of the Kardashian family. However, despite the hype and Trump’s celebrity status, the vodka brand was discontinued by 2011.

The concept of Trump Vodka was surprising considering Trump’s well-documented personal abstinence from alcohol due to family history with alcoholism. The vodka’s flavor garnered reviews that were less than flattering, with some tasting notes resembling “bizarre” descriptions and comparisons to paint thinner. On the business side, Trump Vodka faced financial difficulties early on, at one point struggling to afford bottles for its product.

Adding to the struggle was the fierce competition within the premium vodka market, which included brands like Grey Goose, Absolut, and Belvedere. Despite Trump’s recognition, the brand’s sales peaked at only two cases per day.

Trump’s attempts at branding extend far beyond vodka, with a history of failed consumer products. For instance, Trump Steaks was withdrawn from the market after just two months, while Trump Tea, launched in partnership with Talbott Teas in 2010, lasted only three years until its discontinuation in 2013. Trump Ice, a bottled water brand, operated from 1995 until 2010 and was often ridiculed in pop culture.

While Trump Vodka didn’t quite achieve success, it certainly falls within the larger narrative of the former president’s ventures into various markets.