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Bardstown Bourbon Company has released its latest offering, the Distillery Reserve Normandie Calvados Brandy Barrel Finish, showcasing the distillery’s innovative approach to whiskey-making. Launched as part of their Distillery Reserve series, this release follows the sold-out Cathedral French Oak and Hokkaido Mizunara Oak bottlings and is set to be a highlight in the whiskey market.

Master Blender Dan Callaway crafted this bourbon using two base whiskeys sourced from Indiana. Specifically, the blend consists of 76% thirteen-year bourbon and 24% twelve-year bourbon, both made from the same mash bill: 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley. After blending, the whiskey spent 28 months in seasoned Calvados casks from Christian Drouin’s estate in France. It was then aged an additional four months in new American oak barrels before being bottled at 104.2 proof.

The resulting bourbon carries a distinct Calvados influence, enveloped in aromas of vanilla frosting, toasted marshmallow, and baking spice. Those scents transition to fruity notes like plums, cherries, and baked apples, complemented by a punch of the rye spice.

On the palate, the whiskey bursts with apple brandy flavors, followed by hints of cinnamon bread and rum raisin, maintaining a balanced sweetness. Traditional bourbon notes of vanilla, cloves, and honey syrup emerge prominently, finishing with a bright maraschino cherry essence.

This limited release is anticipated to be a contender for one of the year’s best new bourbons. It will be available for purchase starting on Black Friday at Bardstown Bourbon’s distillery gift shop and Louisville Tasting Room, retailing for $99.99 for a 375mL bottle, though availability is expected to be limited.

For more information on Bardstown Bourbon, visit Bardstown Bourbon Company.

It’s not every day that students get to learn about the hospitality industry firsthand inside a distillery, surrounded by the aromas of freshly fermented molasses and rows of aging barrels. Recently, students from the FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management experienced just that during an educational trip to Puerto Rico, facilitated by the Bacardi Center of Excellence.

On this journey, the students discovered that rum is much more than just a beverage; it embodies a rich tapestry of history, culture, and innovation. Witnessing the entire process from fermentation to bottling revealed how tradition and modern technology converge to produce high-quality products. The global spirits industry is currently valued at $650 billion and is projected to grow to $780 billion by 2030, marking the significance of this field in terms of career opportunities.

The students’ first stop included San Juan Distillers in Puerto Rico’s capital. For many, this was their introduction to a smaller production facility. The owner, José R. Álvarez Reyes, alongside his son, provided an intimate look into their distilling process while sharing stories of their passion for craftsmanship and dedication to their heritage. Despite being a smaller operation with around 20 employees, the level of care in each bottle was evident and inspiring.

Next, the students visited Casa Bacardi, the largest rum distillery in the world, located in Cataño. As a well-known brand synonymous with rum, Bacardi offers a wealth of resources and support to FIU students through its partnerships aimed at enhancing education and promoting sustainability. During their time at Casa Bacardi, students toured the facility, exploring the labs where unique yeast strains are developed for their signature products, deepening their knowledge of rum production.

To cap off the trip, the group visited La Factoria, a renowned cocktail bar in Puerto Rico recognized on The World’s 50 Best Bars list. The vibrant atmosphere highlighted the fusion of creativity and culture, showcasing the bar’s ability to transform from a coffee shop in the morning to an energetic nightclub at night. The varied ambiance across its different rooms appeals to a diverse clientele, emphasizing thoughtful design and unique experiences.

This enriching experience highlights the significance of hands-on learning and cultural exploration within the hospitality program. The students did not merely study rum; they engaged with its history, its makers, and its essence. This journey into Puerto Rico reinforced valuable lessons about hospitality, focusing on storytelling, connection, and tradition that they will carry forward in their careers.

• FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management
• Bacardi Center of Excellence
• Spirits Market Report

With a focus on Guatemalan heritage and innovation, Master Blender Lorena Vásquez plays a pivotal role in crafting Zacapa Rum, which is distinctively aged "Above The Clouds." The aging process occurs in high-altitude casks at 2,300 meters, deriving complexity from the volcanic soils of southern Guatemala where the sugar cane is grown.

Vásquez employs a solera system for aging, transferring the rum through various cask types—like American and European oak—that previously held whiskey, cognac, and sherry. This meticulous method allows for a blend of rums aged between 6 to 23 years, culminating in the flagship Zacapa No. 23, along with premium options like Zacapa XO, which utilizes additional aging techniques.

Beyond the rum itself, Vásquez emphasizes the importance of community engagement. The bottles are adorned with petate weaving, a skill that provides employment for over 700 women in local villages, helping to preserve traditional crafts while fostering economic independence.

Vásquez’s journey into the distilling world began unexpectedly. She studied chemistry and pharmacy, contrary to her father’s wishes for her to pursue medicine. Initially, she worked in quality control at a beer company before transitioning to Zacapa in 1984, where her passion for creating unique rum flourished.

Vásquez recalls her early experiences, noting the superior complexity of the rum distillate compared to other spirits, which spurred her drive for innovation. Through extensive research and travel, she advocated for longer aging processes and the acquisition of varied casks, changing the landscape of rum production in Guatemala.

The elevation plays a crucial role in flavor development. At high altitudes, reduced temperatures and lower oxygen levels slow the aging process, enriching the rum with nuanced colors and aromas. She describes this environment as a blend of "magic and chemistry," producing a more refined product.

When it comes to personal preferences, Vásquez enjoys Zacapa No. 23 in cocktails like an Old Fashioned or a Zacapa Espresso, whereas she savors the Zacapa XO straight, showcasing the rich flavor profiles unique to her creations.

The International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) is renowned for its role as a respected authority in the beverage industry, showcasing the best of wine and spirits from around the globe. Among the most notable recognitions is the IWSC Honor Roll, which celebrates brands that demonstrate exceptional quality consistently over the years. For 2025, only two vodkas made it onto this elite list, highlighting their extraordinary craft and character.

Established in London in 1969, the IWSC evaluates categories from over 90 countries using blind-tasting methods to ensure impartial assessments. The competition’s "Top 50" project has recognized not just single standout bottles but producers whose consistent quality across their portfolios captivates judges. Vodkas must earn gold medals in three of the last five competitions to qualify for the Honor Roll, reflecting their reliability and craftsmanship. Out of thousands of entries, only 46 spirits met this high standard, and the two vodkas selected were Alberta Pure Vodka and Royal Mash Vodka.

Alberta Distillers’ Alberta Pure Vodka features a 40% ABV and is priced at $17 for a 750 ml bottle. Founded in Calgary, Alberta, in 1946, Alberta Distillers is known for its rye whiskey production and exceptional distillation techniques in extreme climates. Its Pure Vodka is made from 100% Canadian grains and glacier-fed spring water, showcasing a dedication to quality. The vodka is refined through multiple distillations and charcoal filtration, resulting in a clean aroma with hints of citrus and grain. It offers a smooth taste with notes of white pepper and a crisp, mineral finish, making it perfect for classic cocktails or enjoyed straight with caviar.

Royal Mash Vodka, also at 40% ABV, is priced higher at $44 for a 750 ml bottle. Produced in Jersey, this vodka is crafted from the unique Jersey Royal potato, a crop protected by designations of origin, ensuring its quality. The vodka is distilled four times and non-chill-filtered, creating a product rich in nuances. On the nose, it offers a creamy grain aroma combined with hints of almond and citrus. Its palate features a blend of white pepper and cereal grains with a velvety finish, emphasizing its luxurious profile intended for sipping.

Considering these two vodkas side by side reveals the diversity within the vodka category, often overshadowed in the spirit world. Alberta Pure Vodka focuses on purity and refinement, whereas Royal Mash Vodka underscores the heritage and complexity of its raw ingredients. Both embody the characteristics that put them on the IWSC Honor Roll — a commitment to excellence that ensures they are regarded as among the finest vodkas available today.

If you’re a fan of rum and whisky, you’ll appreciate the practice of aging Scotch whisky in rum casks. Scotch must be matured in oak barrels for at least three years, and while American oak barrels are common, some distillers opt for barrels that previously held rum. This process introduces a unique array of flavors to the whisky, including notes of caramelized sugar, toasted vanilla, and tropical fruits.

Aging whisky in ex-rum barrels enhances its complexity and depth. Here are some standout recommendations if you’re looking to explore Scotch whiskies that have been finished or aged in rum casks:

• Dewar’s Caribbean Smooth Whisky
  This blended Scotch has spent at least 8 years maturing and is finished in Caribbean rum casks. It offers a complex profile with aromas of toasted vanilla and tropical fruits, complemented by flavors of ripe pineapple, sticky toffee, and chocolate. The finish is a warm blend of caramel and tropical notes.

• The Balvenie 14 Year Caribbean Cask
  A must-try, this whisky is aged for 14 years in traditional oak before being finished in casks that held a unique West Indian rum. The result is a flavorful mix featuring aromas of pineapple and butterscotch, with palette layers of orchard fruits and vanilla, culminating in a lengthy, sweet finish.

• Glen Scotia Double Cask Rum Finish
  This whisky undergoes a double maturation, first in ex-bourbon barrels and then in Guyanese Demerara rum barrels. It presents a delightful mix of salted caramel and brown sugar on the nose, while the palate showcases molasses cookies and baking spices, resulting in a long, warm finish.

For those aiming to add distinctive flavors to their home bar, these selections are exceptional examples of how rum cask finishing elevates the Scotch whisky experience.

India’s premium spirits market is getting a new entry with the launch of Shelter6, a vodka brand developed by popular musician Badshah in partnership with Cartel Bros, known for their successful whisky brands. Shelter6 has ambitious goals, aiming to capture 25% of India’s vodka market and achieve a valuation of ₹700 crore within three years.

The brand prioritizes quality, boasting a vodka distilled six times in Russia using glacial water from Saint Petersburg. Badshah emphasizes that the focus is not just on creating a world-class product but on delivering the best possible experience. He articulates a vision where Shelter6 becomes synonymous with enjoyable gatherings, stating, "If you don’t have a bottle of Shelter6 on your table or in your home bar, the party isn’t cool."

The premium spirits segment in India is rapidly expanding, driven by young consumers looking for better drinking experiences. Moksh Sani, Co-Founder of Cartel Bros, notes a significant opportunity in the vodka category due to the current lack of quality products that resonate with consumers’ desires. He believes Shelter6 can fill that gap, providing a high-quality product at a fair price, enhanced by Badshah’s star power.

Importantly, Shelter6 is not targeting a specific age group but aims to attract anyone who appreciates quality products. It currently has a presence in Maharashtra, with plans to expand to North and South India shortly. Over the next few months, Shelter6 aims to be available pan-India.

Additionally, the brand has already secured initial orders from the UAE and has plans to enter 7-8 markets globally, beginning with Singapore and Thailand.

Badshah explains the inspiration behind the name “Shelter,” attributing it to a sense of warmth and camaraderie he wishes to convey, while also embodying a hint of rebelliousness.

For more information, you can check Market Coverage and stay updated on Business News.

RACER has officially partnered with NEFT Vodka as the Official Spirit of the inaugural RACER Creator Awards, presented by Dunlop. NEFT Vodka, recognized for its premium quality and unique barrel packaging, will sponsor the post-awards reception. This event aims to bring together creators, industry leaders, and motorsports icons to celebrate excellence in automotive storytelling.

Taro Koki, the Executive Producer of the RACER Creator Awards, expressed excitement about the partnership, noting that NEFT Vodka’s creative spirit and dedication to craftsmanship align perfectly with the awards’ mission to honor innovators in the automotive and motorsports community.

Crafted in Austria with pure Alpine spring water and ancient rye grains, NEFT Vodka has gained popularity among both creators and enthusiasts. The collaboration emphasizes mutual values of authenticity, artistry, and excellence shared between NEFT Vodka and the vibrant creator community recognized by the RACER Creator Awards.

Jeff Mahony, CEO of NEFT Vodka, stated the importance of sponsoring the awards, highlighting how they celebrate innovation and inspire the next generation of creators within the automotive culture.

The RACER Creator Awards will honor achievements across 20 categories, ultimately culminating in a special Creator of the Year award. Winners will be determined through a combination of fan voting and a judging panel led by head judge, Jeff Zwart.

For more information about NEFT Vodka, visit NEFT Vodka.

In the world of vodka, many brands seem to blend into one another, often stripped of unique character by production techniques designed for neutrality. However, a wave of innovative brands are challenging this norm and showcasing distinct flavors, sustainability, and unique production methods.

Innovative Vodka Brands

Hard Cut Vodka
Produced by Hollywood’s Dolph Lundgren, Hard Cut Vodka is a potato-based spirit that boasts a higher proof at 90 (45% ABV) compared to the standard 40%. Crafted from Idaho potatoes and Rocky Mountain water, this vodka stands out for its full-bodied flavor and minerality, making it a significant departure from typical vodka offerings.

Origen Holistic Vodka
Beloved by bartenders, Origen is distilled from organic wheat and is infused with botanical elements like elderberry and green tea. This process gives it distinct flavor notes, including subtle olive and citrus, which contribute to a cocktail experience that is anything but neutral.

Gallant Vodka
Gallant is a French vodka made from winter wheat and proofed with spring water. It presents a complex flavor profile featuring bright orange zest and layers of black pepper and vanilla nougat, making it versatile for cocktails while still being accessible with a price point just under $20.

Edwards 1902 Vodka
Crafted from single-estate King Edwards potatoes, Edwards 1902 offers a creamy texture with unique flavor thanks to its British production. The vodka’s production emphasizes terroir, and it even has a flavored version infused with local rhubarb.

Misadventure Vodka
This California vodka is made by fermenting surplus baked goods, an innovative approach that not only creates a unique product but also addresses food waste. This socially conscious brand claims a zero carbon footprint, and its price point around $20 makes it an accessible choice.

Amass Vodka
Distilled initially in Denmark and now made in California, Amass Vodka features over two dozen botanicals, resulting in a flavor profile filled with nuances of florals and citrus. Its careful crafting brings complexity, reflected in its slightly higher price of $39.99 for a 750ml bottle.

Mermaid Salt Vodka
Infused with sea salt from the Isle of Wight, Mermaid Salt Vodka offers a unique salty character that enhances cocktails like Dirty Martinis and Bloody Marys. The incorporation of local sea salt is indicative of a growing trend in vodka production towards expressive flavors and local ingredients.

Sapling Vodka
A UK brand focused on sustainability, Sapling Vodka sources organic wheat and plants a tree for every bottle sold to offset emissions. Their commitment to environmental consciousness is matched by innovative packaging that reduces their carbon footprint.

Reyka Vodka
Distilled in Iceland using a Carter-Head still, Reyka showcases ancient lava rock filtering and pristine Icelandic water, creating a neutral yet remarkably clean vodka. Priced around $20, it combines small-batch artistry with accessibility.

Prairie Organic Vodka
Sourced from organic corn in Minnesota, Prairie Organic Vodka offers a refreshing flavor profile that’s bright and fruity. Distilled in small batches and focusing on quality, it represents the best of American craft vodka, encouraging consumers to explore beyond mainstream options.

These lesser-known vodka brands not only offer exciting variations on a classic spirit but also demonstrate a meaningful shift towards sustainability and unique flavor profiles in the industry. As cocktails evolve to prioritize balance and complexity, these innovative vodkas are positioned to lead the charge into a new era for spirits.

A transatlantic English-finished rye whiskey, Never Say Die, has been awarded the title of Best New Rye of 2025 at the Top Shelf Awards, held during the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. This accolade is particularly notable as it surpasses the accolades of larger American whiskey brands.

Never Say Die employs a unique production method where the rye is initially distilled and partially matured in Kentucky. This process includes a transatlantic journey that takes six weeks, during which the whiskey’s maturation continues in England’s cooler climate at the White Peak Distillery in Derbyshire. The combination of both locations results in a complex and elegant flavor profile appreciated by the judges.

During the Atlantic crossing, the spirit is constantly agitated due to the motion of the ship, enhancing the interaction between the whiskey and the oak cask. This method accelerates the development of flavors that would typically take longer in a traditional static warehouse setting.

The subsequent maturation in Derbyshire contrasts sharply with Kentucky’s volatile climate, allowing for milder aging conditions. This dual environment leads to a smoother and more rounded taste compared to traditional rye whiskies.

According to Brian Luftman, co-founder of Never Say Die, the brand aimed to innovate by taking American whiskey on a journey to explore how different environments could influence its character. The name Never Say Die pays homage to an American racehorse known for its perseverance, embodying the brand’s ethos of resilience.

The award-winning Never Say Die Rye Whiskey retails for $84.95 (£64.95) and is available at various retailers.

For more information, you can visit:

• Never Say Die
• White Peak Distillery
• The Whiskey Exchange

Caribbean rum brand Canerock has made its debut in grocery stores through a new listing at Sainsbury’s. The flagship product, Canerock Rum, is now available in 400 Sainsbury’s locations for a retail price of £36.50 per 70cl bottle.

Canerock is characterized by its infusion of coconut, ginger, and Madagascan vanilla, offering drinkers a unique tasting experience with soft vanilla notes and a tropical character. The brand describes the flavor profile as rich with caramel, soft spices, raisins, and hints of allspice and oak tannins, best enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a mule cocktail.

According to Connie Brown, head of retail at Canerock’s brand owner, Maison Ferrand UK, the rum embodies “pure island spirit in a bottle,” emphasizing its smooth and flavorful qualities designed for leisurely sipping. The transition of production from Jamaica to Maison Ferrand’s dedicated West Indies Rum Distillery in Barbados allows for a closer connection to local, natural ingredients that enhance Canerock’s signature character. Brown added that despite the production changes, Canerock maintains its authentic Caribbean DNA, symbolizing the warmth and craftsmanship of the region.

This move signals a significant step for Canerock as it aims to reach a broader audience and allow rum enthusiasts in the UK to savor a “true taste of Barbados.”

For more details on Canerock, visit Sainsbury’s.