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Jake Norris, a renowned distiller known for his contributions to Colorado’s whiskey scene with brands like Stranahan’s Whiskey and Law Whiskey House, has co-founded a new venture called The Curated Barrel Project. This initiative aims to create unique barrel-finished whiskeys, showcasing the art and craftsmanship behind whiskey distillation. Each whiskey produced under this project is meticulously crafted to highlight distinctive flavors and aromas, appealing to whiskey enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. This endeavor represents Norris’s continued commitment to innovation and quality in the distilling industry.

The London Spirits Competition has unveiled its choice for the 2026 Straight Bourbon of the Year: Maker’s Mark Cask Strength. This distinguished whiskey achieved an impressive score of 96 points, earning a Double Gold Medal due to its quality, value, and packaging.

Introduced in 2014, Maker’s Mark Cask Strength features the distillery’s classic wheated mashbill and boasts a proof range of 107 to 114. Typically aged between seven and eight years, the bourbon offers a robust character that whiskey aficionados eagerly appreciate. Earlier this year, Maker’s Mark began featuring batch-specific age statements on its labels, providing consumers with valuable insights into each batch’s flavor profile.

Described as having a rich aroma with notes of baked apple, raisin, and honey, the palate is highlighted by toasted oak, vanilla caramel, and toasted nuts, culminating in a long finish of honey, pepper, and jammy fruit.

The competition awards Double Gold Medals to spirits scoring between 96 and 100 points, with significant emphasis placed on their assessment criteria: Quality, Value, and Packaging. In this case, the appealing price point of around $45 undoubtedly contributed to its high rating in the Value category. The recognizable red wax packaging and the new label design featuring detailed information further enhanced its appeal.

Not limited to just Cask Strength, other Maker’s Mark offerings also performed admirably at the competition, with Maker’s Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Maker’s Mark 46 French Oak Bourbon each achieving scores of 95 points and earning Gold Medals.

For those interested in tasting a little bit of history—and the 2026 Straight Bourbon of the Year—the Maker’s Mark Cask Strength is widely available across the United States.

Svedka is creatively reinventing itself after being sold to Sazerac last year, reigniting its marketing strategy with nostalgic elements. The vodka brand, known for its bold identity, previously garnered attention in the mid-2000s by branding itself as the “No. 1 vodka of 2033,” with a distinctive Fembot mascot.

Now, Svedka is adapting that vision for a fresh narrative, calling itself the “No. 1 vodka of 2055.” This updated campaign not only revives the Fembot but also encourages a human connection in an era dominated by technology. Their marketing strategy plays on Y2K nostalgia, recently featuring a flip phone that can only make calls and send texts, aimed at younger consumers feeling overwhelmed by digital saturation.

Their efforts to promote in-person interactions began with a campaign last August where consumers were offered to have their bar tabs covered if they agreed to set aside their phones. Svedka then made a splash during the Super Bowl, where they showcased an AI-generated ad that highlighted their Fembot character, sparking both controversy and interest.

David Binder, Svedka’s Senior Brand Director, addressed how their current marketing approach differs from the past, emphasizing the importance of nostalgia and the brand’s purpose. By reintroducing the Fembot in a context that resonates with the modern consumer, Svedka aims to balance technology with the essence of human engagement.

As Binder notes, the Fembot had a whimsical connection to the future when she was first introduced, a stark contrast to today’s anxieties surrounding rapid technological advancements like AI. Svedka’s strategy is not just about capitalizing on nostalgia but also about addressing current consumer sentiments about technology and connection.

Despite skepticism about their AI-generated Super Bowl ad, Binder views the polarizing discussions it ignited as a reflection of effective marketing—encouraging dialogue and engagement. The campaign resulted in a significant sales boost during the Super Bowl season, reaffirming their strategy’s resonance.

Both Svedka and competing brands, like Heineken, are tapping into similar nostalgic insights to connect with consumers yearning for simplicity amidst the complexities of modern life. Svedka’s approaches underscore a broader trend within marketing where brands are seeking to ground their identities in familiar, comforting imagery, bridging generational divides.

For more details about Svedka’s latest offerings and marketing strategies, you can visit:

• Svedka’s Super Bowl Commercial Review
• Svedka’s Y2K-inspired Flip Phone Release

New Riff has introduced its latest release in the American single malt whiskey segment, showcasing an innovative blend of flavors that whiskey enthusiasts will not want to miss. The 2026 installment of New Riff Single Malt Whiskey features a unique mash bill composed entirely of malted barley, with various barley types including Marris Otter, Golden Promise, and a beer-inspired Barleywine.

The distillation process employs a variety of five distinct cask types for maturation: new charred oak, de-charred toasted oak, used bourbon barrels, and both Spanish oloroso and Pedro Ximenez sherry casks. The result is a robust, balanced whiskey with a proof of 111.7. Upon tasting, the whiskey reveals rich layers of dark fruit, cacao, and smoky citrus on the nose, while the palate is met with notes of oak, sweet fruit, sherry, and smoke. The finish offers a delightful hint of candied orange peels and peat smoke.

Master Distiller Brian Sprance expressed excitement about this year’s blend, particularly the inclusion of Chevallier malt, which adds a distinctive character to the whiskey. He noted, “These whiskeys are inspired by malted barleys used in the brewing industry, reimagined through our Kentucky regimen.”

Fans can purchase this new whiskey at the distillery’s gift shop or online at New Riff Distilling starting May 15, with a suggested retail price of $69.99.

For more information, visit New Riff Distilling.

Vodka Fried Chicken: The Secret to the Crispiest Fried Chicken Ever

If you’re seeking the crispiest fried chicken, it’s time to rethink your batter. While traditional methods like buttermilk brining or air frying yield decent results, using vodka in your batter can elevate your fried chicken experience to a whole new level.

The Science Behind the Magic

The key ingredient in this dish is vodka, which transforms the way the batter interacts with the chicken. Here’s how it works:

• Inhibiting Gluten Formation: Vodka interferes with gluten development, meaning that even if your batter is slightly overmixed, the crust remains light and crispy instead of tough and chewy.

• Rapid Evaporation: Alcohol evaporates quickly, creating tiny bubbles in the batter that contribute to a lighter texture. This leaves behind a porous structure that enhances crunchiness.

• Dramatic Temperature Differential: Using ice-cold vodka creates a sharper temperature contrast when the batter hits the hot oil, leading to a quicker set of the crust, minimizing oil absorption, and maximizing crispiness.

Adding sparkling water gives an extra boost with its CO2 bubbles, further aerating the batter as it cooks.

Versatility of the Vodka Batter

This vodka batter isn’t just for chicken; it can also be used for frying onion rings, shrimp, fish fillets, or any other fried treat. Make a batch and keep it handy for various frying ventures.

Vodka Fried Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

Chicken

• 12–16 chicken drumsticks
• Oil, for frying

Seasoning

• 10 g salt
• 5 g garlic powder
• 5 g white pepper
• 5 g chicken powder

Dredge

• 80 g all-purpose flour
• 8 g baking powder
• 150 g rice flour
• 240 g cornstarch
• 20 g salt
• 10 g garlic powder
• 10 g chicken powder
• 5 g white pepper

Vodka Batter

• 250 g dredge (set aside from above)
• 180 g vodka, ice cold
• 150 g sparkling water or beer, ice cold

Instructions

Step 1: Season and Dredge

• Mix the seasoning ingredients and rub them over all drumsticks.
• Combine dredge ingredients, reserving 250 g for the batter.

Step 2: First Fry

• Heat oil to 300°F (149°C) and fry the chicken for 8–12 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Vodka Batter

• Combine the reserved 250 g dredge with ice-cold vodka and sparkling water, whisking until smooth.

Step 4: Second Fry

• Raise oil temperature to 350°F (175°C). Dip each drumstick in the vodka batter and fry for 2 minutes. Rest on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes.

Step 5: Third Fry

• Repeat the batter dip and fry for another 2 minutes, which will provide the ultimate crispy crust.

Step 6: Season and Serve

• While the crust is still hot, season your chicken with soy-garlic glaze, Nashville hot glaze, or a dusting of mushroom powder. Enjoy immediately.

This vodka-fried chicken is guaranteed to impress with its extraordinary crunch and lightness, making it a must-try for any fried chicken lover.

Spring break may be over, but the excitement for travel and memorable cocktails continues. A delightful cocktail recipe featuring Koloa Rum from Kaua’i takes center stage, transporting you to Hawaii with every sip. This recipe is perfect for those dreaming of the tropics, even if you’re just relaxing at home.

Coconut Citrus Sunrise

This colorful drink not only looks stunning but also delivers on flavor, thanks to a blend of fresh fruit and rum enhanced by the bitter notes of Campari.

Ingredients:

• 1 ounce Kōloa Kauaʻi Coconut Rum
• 1/2 ounce Campari
• 3 ounces fresh-squeezed orange juice
• Honey, orange wheel, and shredded coconut for garnish

Method:

1. Start by preparing a rocks glass: brush the rim with honey and roll it in shredded coconut, if desired.
2. Fill the glass with ice and pour the Campari directly into the base.
3. In a cocktail shaker, combine the coconut rum and orange juice over ice, shaking well.
4. Strain the mixture into the glass over the Campari to create an appealing layered effect.
5. Add an orange wheel for garnish.

For those looking to explore more about rum, check out our best dark rum guide for additional cocktail inspirations.

This recipe is all about fun, flavor, and a dash of tropical flair, reminding us that no matter where we are, a great drink can take us on a journey. Cheers!

The Council of Whiskey Masters, known as the foremost authority in whiskey expertise, recently showcased the most exciting American whiskey releases of 2025. This elite group, comprising master blenders, distillers, and seasoned judges, engaged in a thoughtful assessment to identify standout bottles for whiskey enthusiasts.

Highlights from 2025’s Best American Whiskeys

1. Michter’s 20-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon

   • ABV: 57.1%
   • Price: $5,500
     Paul Pacult describes it as “easily the finest bourbon” of the year, featuring aromas of black cherry and marzipan.

2. Knob Creek 21-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon

   • ABV: 50%
   • Price: $260
     Justin Stumpfer praises it for its regal profile, highlighting notes of leather, deep oak, and dark toffee.

3. Old Fitzgerald 7-Year Bottled-in-Bond

   • ABV: 50%
   • Price: $59
     Tom McCormick regards it as an exceptional choice for bourbon lovers looking to elevate their experience.

4. Heaven Hill Grain-to-Glass Specialty Barrel Series

   • ABV: 55%
   • Price: $130
     Susan Reigler calls it a “spicy butterscotch bomb” with remarkable depth.

5. NOCO Cask Strength Bourbon 4X

   • ABV: 64.65%
   • Price: $250
     Sebastien Gavillet highlights its delicate yet layered complexity, featuring notes of baked apple and dark chocolate.

6. Bard Distillery “Muhlenberg John Prine You-Got-Gold” Bourbon

   • ABV: 47%
   • Price: $77
     Martin Duffy describes it as “light and effervescent” with hints of vanilla and brown sugar.

7. Woodinville Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Aged 9 Years

   • ABV: 50%
   • Price: $135
     Described as rich and bold by Joseph V Micallef, it appeals to those who enjoy barrel-influenced flavors.

8. Jack Daniel’s 14-Year Tennessee Whiskey

   • ABV: 53.5%
   • Price: $700
     Samuel Wright notes its robust profile, reinforcing Jack Daniel’s place in the premium whiskey market.

Conclusion

These selections reflect not only the diverse offerings in the world of American whiskey for 2025 but also emphasize a movement toward age-statement revivals and craftsmanship. The recommendations from the Council of Whiskey Masters set a benchmark, guiding enthusiasts toward the most compelling new releases of the year. Whether you prefer a traditional bourbon, innovative Tennessee whiskey, or a unique single malt, this curated list provides an excellent roadmap for your tasting journey.

For more insights into whiskey, explore additional articles:

• America’s Best Bourbon, According To the Beverage Testing Institute
• Best Bourbons Of 2025, According To The Top Spirit Competitions

Knob Creek bourbon is a staple in many bars, known for being a reliable choice for whiskey lovers. Launched in 1992 as part of the Jim Beam Small Batch Bourbon Collection, it emerged during the 1990s bourbon revival, crafted by Booker Noe, grandson of Jim Beam. This period was crucial as bourbon was losing popularity to lighter spirits like vodka, prompting some distillers to make their products smoother and less bold. In contrast, Knob Creek was introduced as a pre-Prohibition style whiskey that embraced full flavors, aligning with a trend called "premiumization" that aimed to restore the spirit’s stature.

The name “Knob Creek” references a real place in Kentucky, specifically Knob Creek Farm, linked to Abraham Lincoln’s childhood. While Lincoln himself has no connection to the whiskey’s production, the name evokes historical significance, associating the brand with traditional Kentucky whiskey heritage.

Knob Creek is distinctive for its 100 proof bottling, which is higher than many mainstream bourbons that often sit at 80 proof. This choice enhances the bourbon’s flavor and adheres to the brand’s philosophy of delivering a full-bodied experience. Its 9-year age statement, a key part of its identity, emphasizes the importance of aging in new charred oak barrels—an essential factor that imparts characteristic flavors like vanilla, caramel, and spice.

Despite its artisanal branding, Knob Creek is produced by the Jim Beam distillery, making it accessible and backed by a robust infrastructure. The term "small-batch" does not have a strict legal definition, but it positions Knob Creek in the middle between mass-market and craft spirits, appealing to those seeking a more substantial whiskey experience.

Knob Creek adheres closely to traditional bourbon-making practices, using a mash bill that typically consists of 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley. This choice results in a balanced profile combining the sweetness of corn and the spiciness of rye. Additionally, the aging process in heavily charred oak barrels influences the whiskey’s taste and texture, yielding a product that is bold and rich, with a complex flavor profile that has made it a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts.

For more details on bourbon options, you may check The 25 Best Bourbon Brands, Ranked.

Looking to enhance your baking routine? Elevate your boxed spice cake mix to new heights by incorporating dark rum. This simple addition can transform an ordinary cake into a gourmet dessert without the hassle of starting from scratch.

According to culinary expert Joshua Carlucci, dark rum is "a baker’s secret weapon." Aged in charred oak barrels, dark rum carries rich notes of caramel, tobacco, and dried fruits, making it a perfect complement to the spices in a cake. When you add two to three tablespoons of dark rum to the batter, it increases moisture and imparts a caramelized flavor. Alternatively, you can create a glaze by mixing dark rum with confectioner’s sugar, brushing it over the cake after baking for added moisture and richness.

While there are many rums available, dark rum is uniquely suited for spice cake. Unlike spiced rum, which may overpower the cake’s flavors, or lighter rums that lack depth, dark rum strikes a perfect balance.

For those ready to push the boundaries of flavor, consider making dark rum buttercream frosting by adding a splash of the liquor to your frosting mix. This pairs amazingly with warm, moist cakes, especially a spiced apple cake.

With the time saved by using a boxed mix, you can focus on creative finishing touches that elevate the cake. Think toppings such as toasted nuts, dried fruit, or a sprinkle of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

In summary, a few tablespoons of dark rum can dramatically enhance the flavor and experience of your spice cake, transforming it into a remarkable dessert that leaves a lasting impression.

The Rolling Stones are set to launch a new Jamaican rum named Crossfire Hurricane Rum. As the warm weather approaches, this release highlights a fusion between the rock band’s musical heritage and a taste of the Caribbean. The rum is a super-premium blend sourced from esteemed Jamaican distilleries: Hampden Estate, Long Pond, Worthy Park, and Clarendon.

The name "Crossfire Hurricane" pays homage to an iconic lyric from the band’s song "Jumpin’ Jack Flash," symbolizing their deep-rooted connection to Jamaica. The rum itself is made entirely from Jamaican ingredients, boasting a blend of pot and column-distilled rums without any added sugars or additives. This results in a fruit-forward, high-ester profile that promises to deliver a unique tasting experience.

The Rolling Stones emphasized their appreciation for Jamaica, stating, "Jamaica got into everything we did in the early seventies… It’s never let us down since." This sentiment reflects their history of recording in Jamaica, which includes albums like "Goats Head Soup."

In creating this product, the band collaborated with Global Rum Ambassador Ian Burrell, who believes this rum is groundbreaking for uniting offerings from four of Jamaica’s remaining distilleries, providing exceptional complexity that’s rare in the market.

AvailabilityCrossfire Hurricane Rum is expected to be on shelves at select retailers across the country, with a suggested price of $35 for the standard version and $45 for the reserve edition.