Liquor-articles 1905

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.

The 12th Annual Irish Whiskey Awards recently took place at Teeling Distillery in Dublin, celebrating the best of Irish whiskey amidst an evening of camaraderie and spirited competition. The event saw a total of 20 awards given for various categories, highlighting the diversity and quality of this beloved spirit.

Among the notable winners, the Dunville’s 24-Year-Old Palo Cortado Single Malt was recognized as the Irish Whiskey of the Year, marking its second consecutive win in this prestigious category. Echlinville Distillery’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation has established it as a leader in the sector, with their distinctive offerings setting modern standards for Irish single malts.

The awards were organized by the Celtic Whiskey Shop and included a range of categories covering blends, single malts, pot stills, and more. This year’s ceremony highlighted the resilience of the Irish whiskey industry, which has faced challenges, particularly with a noted decline in US exports.

One of the unique aspects of the awards is the community involvement; results are determined through blind tastings conducted by panels from over ten whiskey societies across Ireland, rather than by a select group of judges. This method ensures a comprehensive evaluation reflective of the wider whiskey community.

Key award highlights included:

• Irish Whiskey of the Year: Dunville’s 24-Year-Old Palo Cortado Single Malt
• Best New Irish Whiskey: Hinch Warehouse 3 Exclusive – Virgin American Oak
• Single Malt 11 Years and Under (High-Priced): Copeland Double Distilled Pino Hogshead
• Single Pot Still Whiskey 12 Years and Over: Redbreast 15-Year-Old
• Cask Strength Whiskey: Dunville’s 24-Year-Old PX Cask Strength

The event also supported charitable initiatives, with proceeds benefiting Mary’s Meals, a charity that provides meals for children in need worldwide, illustrating the spirit of community and support that exists within the industry.

The Irish Whiskey Awards continue to showcase the passion, talent, and artistry present in Ireland’s whiskey-making scene, inspiring fans and newcomers alike to explore the rich flavors and heritage of this iconic spirit.

For more insights on the latest Irish whiskeys, check out:

• The Best Irish Blended Whiskey According to the Beverage Testing Institute
• The Top Irish Whiskey According to the 2025 World Whiskies Awards

Soho Chicken and Whiskey has reopened its doors after relocating from Ohio City’s West 25th Street to a new spot on Lorain Avenue. The popular soul food restaurant made its debut at 4211 Lorain Avenue, in the former space of Xinji Noodle Bar, on October 30. Since its reopening, it has quickly filled up with patrons eager to experience its signature comfort food and inviting atmosphere.

The new location maintains an intimate feel with cozy nooks and exposed brick, while also incorporating new enhancements. The owners, Nolan Konkoski and Molly Smith, took their time to ensure everything was perfect, resulting in what they describe as a "well-established version" of Soho, keeping the same charming energy at its core.

We visited about a week after the reopening to a lively dining scene ahead of a Cavaliers game. The bar area is still prominent, leading into a main dining area with a slightly more open kitchen layout. Decor includes nostalgic pieces from the previous Soho location and a cheerful “Welcome Back Y’all” sign.

The drink menu is diverse, featuring both classic and seasonal cocktails alongside select wines and craft beers. We sampled the “Untitled,” a robust bourbon drink, and the “Psycho Killer,” a refreshing gin-based concoction—both reflecting Soho’s commitment to quality beverages.

No visit to Soho is complete without their deviled eggs, a must-try on the menu, praised for their creamy texture and the option to upgrade with smoked trout and caviar. The snack menu also highlights fried green tomatoes, which we enjoyed topped with street corn fixings, offering a delicious blend of flavors.

For our main courses, we opted for the iconic fried chicken, served with two sides, and the unique Carolina “fried rice,” which consists of griddled grits, Wagyu bologna, yams, and kimchi. The melding of these flavors made for a satisfying meal.

Desserts include freshly fried beignets, described as a doughy delight reminiscent of pancakes, which we couldn’t resist adding to our meal.

Soho Chicken and Whiskey has returned with an energy that promises to reinvigorate the Greater Cleveland dining scene, inviting patrons to relish not just the food but the memories that accompany it. Reservations are available for those eager to visit, and the restaurant plans to reintroduce brunch and special events soon.

For more details, visit Soho Chicken and Whiskey’s website or make reservations via Resy.

On Thursday, November 6, 2025, The National Cultural Foundation, in collaboration with the Barbados Food and Rum Festival, will host a culinary event on Oistins Main Road, Christ Church. Due to this event, several traffic changes will be implemented from 5:40 p.m. until it concludes.

Road ClosuresThe main closure will affect Oistins Main Road, starting from its junction with Canevale Road to the intersection at Keizer Hill and Thornbury Hill. This road will remain closed between 5:40 p.m. and 11 p.m.

Traffic DiversionsMotorists should be aware of the following diversions during the specified times:

• Eastbound traffic on Oistins Road from Maxwell Road must turn left at Canevale Road, continue to Maxwell Hill, and then turn right towards Oistins Hill.
• Westbound drivers on Keizer Hill must turn right at Thornbury Hill and then make a left onto Church Hill Road.
• For those traveling west towards Oistins from Silver Sands, drivers can turn right at Waverly Road, follow onto Pegwell Road, and then take a right to continue onto Thornbury Hill.

Penalties for Non-ComplianceIndividuals who do not adhere to these regulations or disregard commands from the Barbados Police Service in uniform may face fines of $500 BDS or up to three months in prison. Exemptions apply for vehicles operated by emergency services. Police officers will be present to assist with traffic management during the event, and the Barbados Police Service appreciates the public’s understanding and cooperation with these necessary changes.

Rum Sales Outlook Remains Positive Despite Hurricane Melissa

The Campari Group, the parent company of J. Wray & Nephew Limited, anticipates steady organic net sales growth for 2025, despite the challenges posed by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica. CEO Simon Hunt shared this outlook during the company’s earnings call on October 29, just after the hurricane had passed. Jamaica accounted for €147.1 million (approximately $24.90 billion) or 4.8% of Campari’s total net sales of €3.07 billion in 2024.

Hunt affirmed that most shipments required to conclude the year had already been dispatched from Jamaica, maintaining strong inventory levels to meet demand. As such, he does not foresee a significant impact on the annual financials. Hunt acknowledged that at the time of his statements, communication channels were disrupted, limiting available information, but he promised to provide further updates based on newly acquired insights.

The safety and welfare of employees remain a top priority for the company as assessments of Hurricane Melissa’s impact begin. Hunt stated that teams are deployed at various sites to evaluate damages and strategize recovery efforts in collaboration with the Jamaican Government. He assured stakeholders that they would confirm support for recovery plans as conditions clarify.

J. Wray & Nephew’s Instagram account indicated that all company locations had reopened as of November 3, focusing on a phased approach while prioritizing community engagement. The company’s facilities have begun facilitating aid distribution to affected areas, including Clarendon and St. Elizabeth.

In the nine-month period, Jamaica’s net sales rose from €105.5 million to €106.6 million ($18.92 billion), with organic growth of 11.4%. The third quarter reported net sales growth from €26.5 million to €35.4 million ($6.28 billion), following previous disruptions from Hurricane Beryl. The increase can also be attributed to strong market trends, including significant sales increases for products like Wray & Nephew Overproof Rum and Magnum Tonic Wine.

The portfolio of Jamaican rums experienced a 12% rise in net sales, moving from €106.1 million to €118.7 million, driven by robust local trends and export sales to the U.S. The portfolio grew by 16.4% over nine months, with a notable increase of 45% in third-quarter sales compared to the previous year’s hurricane-impacted numbers.

Campari Group has plans for infrastructure enhancements at Jamaican distilleries in 2026, aiming at implementing high-efficiency heat and power systems, a new steam plant, and water reuse capabilities.

Overall, the Campari Group’s net sales for the first nine months saw a slight uptick to €2.28 billion, bolstered by organic growth in existing markets and its Courvoisier portfolio. However, operating expenses rose significantly, leading to a modest increase in operating profit of 2% to €475.5 million and adjusted EBITDA climbing 6% to €628.7 million. A rise in financial expenses related to increased net debt slightly reduced profit before tax by 5% to €397.9 million.

The report also highlighted consumer trends shifting towards moderation in discretionary spending on alcohol amid economic constraints, health-focused consumer behavior changes, and post-pandemic influences exacerbated by social media.

Recently, Campari’s former Chief Financial Officer, Paolo Marchesini, transitioned to a vice-chairman role on the board, while Francesco Mele was appointed Group CFO on November 3—a week of significant restructuring for the company.

Copper, when exposed to water and air, develops a verdigris patina, altering its shiny appearance. Ironically, the copper caps on bottles of Tito’s Handmade Vodka remain pristine due to being made from plastic. This quirky detail mirrors the brand’s evolving legacy in a competitive market. Established in 1997 by Bert "Tito" Beveridge, Tito’s has become the most consumed spirit in the U.S., selling over 12 million cases and raising approximately $2.6 billion in 2024.

The production of vodka demands high purity levels, typically around 95% alcohol by volume, which raises questions about how "handmade" this process truly is. What has fueled Tito’s rise is not only its product but its story. Throughout its journey as a post-Prohibition distillery, it has relied heavily on its Texan roots and the charisma of Beveridge himself.

Even as the global spirits industry faces challenges, Tito’s appears resilient. Recently, it acquired Lalo Tequila amid a downturn affecting brands like Smirnoff’s parent company, Diageo, which suspended production at some distilleries. This acquisition has given Tito’s an edge as they now diversify their offerings in the spirit market.

Tito’s distillation facility in Austin contrasts starkly with those of other well-known brands that often showcase their production processes to the public. While Tito’s boasts a compelling backstory—from its humble beginnings to its rise—access to its facilities is restricted, creating an air of mystery. Competitors like Grey Goose are viewed as more corporate, lacking a personal touch.

Despite facing criticism and lawsuits over its "handmade" label, Tito’s has maintained its market presence. Legal challenges have focused on whether the term "handmade" misleads consumers, but courts often protect such marketing labels as non-actionable "puffery."

As Tito’s expands into clashing markets like tequila, it grapples with the complex issues of labeling in spirits, where exacting standards are still being defined. The vodka and the tequila markets are pushing back against misleading claims amid heightened health-conscious consumerism.

While Tito’s claims to be handmade may easily provoke skepticism, their suite of advertising—coupled with competitive pricing—has solidified a loyal customer base. Its approach showcases a blend of authenticity and brand storytelling that resonates with many. Tito’s strategy has successfully mirrored the aspirations of American entrepreneurship, presenting itself as an accessible yet premium product on the shelves.

GrainHenge Whisky, from Red Deer, Alberta, has changed the game in the whiskey world by winning the title of World’s Best Rye at the 2025 World Whiskies Awards. This small city, home to just over 100,000 residents, managed to produce a rye whiskey that outshone competitors from around the globe.

The GrainHenge Arrowwood was awarded the prestigious Best Rye title, raising the profile of Canadian whiskey in a domain often dominated by other countries. Winning the Canadian category qualified it for the overall title, where it bested entries from countries like the United States, Ireland, and Scotland.

The success of GrainHenge is not an accident; it stems from the expertise of its founders at Troubled Monk Brewery. This brewery gained recognition previously, winning a silver medal for its American brown ale at the World Beer Cup in 2016.

Red Deer is ideally located within North America’s barley belt, producing more barley than the entirety of the U.S. GrainHenge’s approach to whiskey production combines their brewing skills with high-quality local grains. The brand name itself nods to the region’s agricultural history, evoking the grain elevators that characterize Alberta’s landscape.

Charlie Bredo, the President of GrainHenge, highlighted their journey from craft brewing to whiskey-making, stating, “We realized we had a great opportunity to make great whiskey with our knowledge of grain and beer.” Their method emphasizes flavor, utilizing a unique combination of flaked and malted rye to create distinctive profiles for their whiskey.

With a subversive view of Canadian whiskey, which has been perceived as less flavorful, GrainHenge’s goal is to elevate the category. In contrast, previous Canadian winners have sparked a larger trend indicating that Canadian whiskey is gaining international recognition.

Each release of Arrowwood is limited to a small batch of bottles, currently sold out due to its recent accolade. Future batches will be available at select liquor stores or through the GrainHenge website, priced around CAD$125. Bredo sums up their ethos well: "This isn’t your grandpa’s Canadian whiskey. It’s new. It’s bold. It’s flavorful.