Liquor-articles 2020

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Vodka remains a dominant spirit around the world, often becoming a staple in various cocktails that have defined the recent beverage landscape. While premium brands like Grey Goose, Ciroc, and Skyy may come to mind as popular choices, the title of the best-selling vodka globally belongs to a much more accessible brand: Smirnoff. This ubiquitous vodka can be found in liquor stores, bars, and restaurants from the suburbs to airports, known for its reasonable pricing and compatibility with a variety of mixers.

Smirnoff’s success is attributed not only to its affordability—typically around $12 for a 750-milliliter bottle—but also to the sheer volume of sales. According to industry reports, Smirnoff sold approximately 23.4 million nine-liter cases last year, significantly outpacing its nearest competitor, Absolut. In contrast, Grey Goose bottles are priced nearly twice as high, making Smirnoff a go-to option for many consumers.

The brand’s versatility is a key factor in its popularity, positioned as an excellent mixer for various cocktails, from Moscow Mules to Cosmopolitans. Smirnoff not only offers its classic vodka but also a range of flavored options and products like Smirnoff Ice, appealing to a wide audience of drinkers.

With a global reach facilitated by its parent company, Diageo, Smirnoff is available in over 130 countries. Despite its massive sales, not everyone views Smirnoff as a top-tier vodka; some mixologists prefer other brands for quality. Still, its status as a reliable mixer makes it a staple in bars and events, cementing its position in the spirits market.

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Jack Daniel’s has unveiled its latest expression, the "High Angel’s Share Tennessee Whiskey," as part of its Distillery Series. This bottling, announced on August 4th, showcases a unique and powerful whiskey distilled in 2016, coming from a mash bill of 80% corn, 8% rye, and 12% malted barley.

What sets this release apart is its aging process. It matured on the highest level of Barrelhouse 1-13 at the distillery in Lynchburg, Tennessee. The heat in these top-floor barrels can reach temperatures exceeding 120 degrees Fahrenheit during hot summers, significantly leading to evaporation known as the "Angel’s Share." This process results in a whiskey that is not only higher in proof but also richer in flavor.

Chris Fletcher, Jack Daniel’s Master Distiller, emphasizes that this whiskey exemplifies the impact of natural aging conditions. The intense heat concentrated the flavors left behind after the evaporation, yielding a "beautifully concentrated profile" that offers a different take on the classic Tennessee whiskey character.

Jack Daniel’s selected the barrels for this batch through their Whiskey Taster Dale McGee, producing a batch that clocks in at an impressive proof of 138.4. Tasting notes suggest a rich palate featuring flavors of brown sugar, banana nut bread, and hints of maple syrup – classic Jack Daniel’s notes elevated by the higher proof.

As with all releases from the Distillery Series, "High Angel’s Share Tennessee Whiskey" is available exclusively from select retailers in Tennessee and at the distillery itself, priced at $44.75 for a 375mL bottle.

Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum is calling on both locals and tourists to partake in its Rum Month festivities this August. The celebrations are themed "On The Rum" and will showcase a variety of engaging activities, focusing on the craftsmanship, heritage, and versatility that have established Appleton Estate as a global premium rum icon for over 250 years.

During this month-long celebration, consumers are invited to embark on a journey through a series of immersive tastings, live entertainment, and rum education sessions, all while highlighting the limited-edition Appleton Estate Sherry Cask Expression.

The centerpiece of these activities will be the Appleton Estate On The Rum Tour, which will feature 21 island-wide stops. This initiative aims to bring Appleton Estate directly to its audience, making the joys of National Rum Month accessible to rum enthusiasts across the island.

Dominic Bell, Communications Manager for Appleton Estate, emphasized that Rum Month is about more than just showcasing the spirit; it is an homage to Jamaica’s rich rum heritage. He noted, "Throughout August, we want consumers to experience everything Appleton Estate represents," offering exceptional cocktails, nightlife, and educational opportunities on rum culture.

Exciting signature events are also being planned, promising premium lifestyle experiences that blend quality rum, music, and vibrant nightlife, with live performances from local bands including Tower Band and DMG Band.

In addition to the fun, there will be chances for consumers to win exclusive prizes when purchasing the limited-edition Appleton Estate Sherry Cask at participating locations. Additionally, the brand will highlight local mixology talent through its anticipated Bartenders Competition, focusing on creativity and innovation while promoting responsible drinking.

Appleton Estate encourages everyone to follow them on social media for updates about Rum Month festivities, positioning this event as a truly special and unique celebration.

For more information on the activities and offerings during Rum Month, check out the Appleton Estate website and their social media profiles.

Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey has introduced its latest release, the “High Angel’s Share Tennessee Whiskey,” as part of the Distillery Series. Announced on August 4, this bottling is notable for its distinctive high-proof character and represents a tribute to the flavorful essence left after the evaporation known as the "Angel’s Share."

This whiskey, distilled in 2016 from the classic Jack Daniel’s mash bill of 80% corn, 8% rye, and 12% malted barley, has spent years aging on the top floor of Barrelhouse 1-13 at the distillery. This upper level is renowned for its extreme heat during summer months, often reaching over 120 degrees Fahrenheit, which results in significant evaporation—sometimes over 50%—after many years in the barrel.

Chris Fletcher, Jack Daniel’s Master Distiller, elaborated on the release, stating, “This release is a perfect example of what happens when we let nature take the lead. By resting these barrels on the very top floor of our Coy Hill barrelhouse, the intense heat increased the angel’s share over the years.” This natural process ultimately leads to a concentrated and distinct flavor profile.

Selected by Jack Daniel’s Whiskey Taster Dale McGee, the final product boasts a robust batch proof of 138.4. Tasting notes highlight flavors of brown sugar, banana nut bread, and a hint of maple syrup, all likely intensified by the high proof.

High Angel’s Share Tennessee Whiskey is available in a half-size, 375mL format at select retailers in Tennessee and at the White Rabbit Bottle Shop at the distillery, with a suggested retail price of $44.75. This release is part of a continuing trend of special bottlings that showcase the unique aging environment at Coy Hill, which includes previous releases from 2021, 2022, and 2024.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has imposed a ban on three variants of Old Monk rum: The Legend, Gold Reserve, and XXX Matured Rum. This ban extends to several other well-known brands, including McDowell’s No 1 Rum, Bagpiper Deluxe Whisky, and Royal Challenge Whisky.

Flavor Controversy

The FSSAI has raised alarms regarding the use of artificial flavors in alcoholic beverages instead of employing authentic aging methods. While natural flavoring substances are permitted, the authority found that some manufacturers were adding flavors that originated from the drinks themselves. This practice was deemed misleading, as there is no accepted global manufacturing standard that allows for rum or whisky flavors to be added to their respective spirits.

Testing Results

Laboratory tests conducted on rums and whiskies from various manufacturers revealed that these products lacked quality due to the inclusion of external artificial or nature-identical flavors. The FSSAI stated, "the addition of artificial flavors is masking its natural flavor and making the product substandard." The regulator emphasized that such beverages should be labeled as "flavored/premix rum" rather than their current labels.

Age Claim Concerns

Additionally, the FSSAI criticized Old Monk’s claims regarding the age of its XXX Rum variant, labeling it as "deceptive." The main component of this product is neutral spirit, with the matured rum spirit being a minor ingredient. This violates existing regulations which stipulate that the age claim must refer to the youngest spirit in the blend, as specified by the FSS (Alcoholic Beverages) Regulations, 2018.

Irish blended whiskey is experiencing a remarkable renaissance, merging traditional triple-distillation methods with innovative cask maturation and mash bills. This evolution has led to a significant increase in the category, which now constitutes over 70% of Irish whiskey exports.

The 2026 Global Spirits Masters recently celebrated exemplary representations of this trend, honoring Powers Gold Label and Powers Irish Rye with Master medals. Powers Gold Label stands out as a classic, traditional blend, while Powers Irish Rye introduces a rye element that invigorates the brand’s profile.

Powers Gold Label

Originating from one of Ireland’s oldest whiskey brands, which dates back to 1791, Powers Gold Label is a blend of triple-distilled pot still and grain whiskeys. Its notable high percentage of pot still spirit gives the whiskey a spicier and richer character compared to many of its counterparts. Primarily matured in ex-bourbon barrels, it presents a harmonious blend of vibrant fruits and the unique spice of traditional Irish pot still whiskey.

Tasting notes reveal aromas of honey, ripe apple, pear, and vanilla, alongside subtle touches of toasted oak, citrus peel, and cinnamon. The palate is creamy and medium-bodied, offering complex layers of sweet malt, baked fruits, caramel, nutmeg, and cracked black pepper, leading to a long, warming finish with notes of vanilla and baking spices.

Powers Irish Rye

Powers Irish Rye represents a significant innovation in the Irish whiskey sector, featuring rye in its mash bill along with malted and unmalted barley. This spirit undergoes triple distillation followed by maturation in a mix of virgin American oak, first-fill bourbon barrels, and refill casks, resulting in a whiskey that blends traditional smoothness with the herbal spice distinctive to rye.

The nose is greeted with aromas of freshly baked rye bread, vanilla, honey, seasoned oak, and hints of orange zest. Palate-friendly flavors include caramel, toasted cereals, ripe pear, clove, and cinnamon, with an elegant peppery lift from the rye component. The finish is clean and sweet, leaving lingering notes of rye spices and vanilla.

Together, these Master medal recipients exemplify the dynamic nature of Irish blended whiskey. Powers Gold Label retains its status as a standard for traditional blends, while Powers Irish Rye showcases how distillers are diversifying the category without compromising its hallmark smoothness. Both expressions celebrate the exceptional quality and diversity in Irish whiskeys, appealing to both novice and seasoned whiskey enthusiasts alike.

For more information:

• Powers Gold Label
• Powers Irish Rye
• 2026 Global Spirits Masters

India’s food safety authority has prohibited the sale of certain well-known whiskey and rum brands from Diageo’s Indian arm and Inbrew Beverages due to the use of artificial flavorings instead of traditional methods to enhance taste and aroma.

With an estimated annual revenue of around $40 billion (approximately R660 billion), India ranks among the world’s largest alcohol markets. Diageo leads the market, competing against brands like Pernod Ricard.

The banned products include more affordable locally produced spirits when compared to imported options. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) allows the incorporation of natural flavoring substances in alcoholic beverages. However, testing revealed that some distilleries were adding innate flavors, such as rum flavor to rum.

The FSSAI stated, "There is no internationally recognized manufacturing practice whereby rum flavor is added to rum or whiskey flavor is added to whiskey." Such practices could potentially allow companies to eliminate the aging process or the necessity of natural ingredients such as molasses, malt, or grapes.

Specific brands affected by this ruling include Diageo’s United Spirits, featuring Antiquity Blue Whisky and Royal Challenge Whisky, along with Inbrew’s Bagpiper Deluxe Whisky and Old Cask Deluxe XXX Rum. The ban also extends to Old Monk rum, a renowned and historically significant brand produced by Mohan Rocky Springwater.

Responses from Diageo India, Inbrew, and Mohan Rocky Springwater to requests for comments were not forthcoming. The FSSAI’s findings categorized these products as "sub-standard due to the presence of external artificial or nature-identical flavors."

Two senior executives from the industry expressed concern over the orders, suggesting that the flavor addition complied with Indian regulations, though they asked to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity of the issue. It remains unclear if the ban affects these brands produced in other facilities across the country or is limited to a select few states, as the FSSAI did not answer inquiries on this matter.

This regulatory action follows a broader trend of heightened scrutiny in the food and beverage industry by the FSSAI, which has also directed manufacturers of high-caffeine beverages to cease labeling their products as "energy drinks.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) recently unveiled alarming practices in the alcohol industry, revealing that many popular rum and whisky brands are artificially flavored rather than aged traditionally in barrels. This discovery came from a nationwide enforcement drive that scrutinized various brands across Maharashtra, Goa, and Madhya Pradesh.

Typically, customers buy classic rum and single-malt whisky based on the belief that they have been aged naturally over time in oak barrels, which enhances their flavor and aroma. However, inspections conducted by the FSSAI, in collaboration with health departments, found that some reputable brands have resorted to chemical flavoring methods, undermining the trust of consumers.

Laboratory tests indicated significant non-compliance, where brands utilized neutral or extra neutral alcohol that lacks flavor and aroma, adding artificial flavoring instead to mimic the authentic tastes of rum and whisky. FSSAI highlighted that such misleading practices not only result in sub-par quality products but also misrepresent themselves by using standard category names without proper labeling that reflects their true nature.

For instance, the "7 years old blended" claim on the Old Monk XXX Rum label was found to be deceptive, as the primary ingredient was an unaged neutral spirit rather than a matured rum, which comprised less than 5% of the mixture according to FSSAI investigations. This practice is a clear violation of regulations, which stipulate that age claims should be based on the youngest spirit in the blend.

In response to these findings, several prominent brands have been flagged, including:

• Old Monk Rum variants, produced by Mohan Rocky Springwater in Khopoli
• McDowell’s No. 1 Rum and Antiquity Blue Whisky from United Spirits
• Bagpiper Deluxe Whisky and Old Cask Deluxe XXX Rum from INBREW Beverages
• Central Province Whisky and McDowell’s No. 1 Celebration Matured XXX Rum from Associated Alcohol and Breweries

Despite the issues uncovered, the manufacturers have been granted conditional relief to clear existing inventory while correcting their practices. This situation serves as a cautionary tale for consumers to be vigilant about what they purchase and the authenticity of their favorite spirits.

For more information, you can check the following links:

• FSSAI on artificial flavouring
• FSSAI reports
• Old Monk rum discussion

In a notable achievement for comedian Jim Gaffigan, his bourbon brand, Fathertime Bourbon, has been awarded Best New Bourbon at the 2026 San Francisco World Spirits Competition for its product, The Caboose: Empty Nester Strength. This bourbon received an impressive score of 97 points, clinching a Double Gold Medal in recognition of its quality.

Fathertime was co-founded by Gaffigan and his friend, film producer Stu Pollard, in 2024. The brand’s offerings are creatively inspired by Gaffigan’s five children and include names like Firstborn Edition, Second Child Syndrome, and, of course, The Caboose. The Caboose: Empty Nester Strength is a Kentucky straight bourbon presented at a robust 121 proof, making it the fifth release in their lineup.

Gaffigan has established himself as a figure in the whiskey community, participating in whiskey-focused podcasts and events. Additionally, he has presented a bourbon-themed stand-up special titled “The Bourbon Set,” in collaboration with Old Forester.

Describing the bourbon, Gaffigan admits, “I’m (obviously) not a bourbon expert… but I did my research, and I know what I like.” He mentions that he hand-selected the bourbon and personally signed each bottle. Fathertime operates independently without backing from major spirit companies.

The Caboose’s unique recipe is crafted from 63% corn, 30% rye, and 7% malted barley, coming from undisclosed Kentucky distilleries. It’s offered in two proof points, with The Caboose: Empty Nester Strength priced at around $200.

Judges at the competition highlighted The Caboose’s remarkable aroma, noting hints of matcha tea, ginger, cookies, and lemon peel. They appreciated a palate filled with flavors like graham cracker, marshmallow, dried fig, and fruitcake, rounded off with an unexpected bubble gum note, leading to its high score.

To qualify for Best New Bourbon, products must be either newly launched within the past four years or fully reformulated versions of existing brands, achieving a minimum score of 96 points. The judges’ recognition reflects the bourbon’s standout qualities and craftsmanship.

For bourbon enthusiasts and Gaffigan fans alike, this recognition marks an exciting moment in the ever-growing whiskey industry, with Fathertime Bourbon now firmly established on the map.

At Jack Rose Dining Saloon in Washington, D.C., the focus has shifted away from competing for the title of having the largest whiskey selection in America. Previously, such claims were common among bars, often misleading. The bar, which offers between 2,500 and 2,800 whiskeys, has chosen to embrace a more genuine approach—they want their collection to reflect quality rather than quantity.

Owner Bill Thomas explains that while many establishments boast high bottle counts, they often have expressions that are never truly available for ordering or include bottles merely for display. In contrast, every whiskey on Jack Rose’s shelves is ready for customers to taste, allowing the list to evolve continuously. This commitment ensures that prices also reflect the current market, with the bar maintaining about 10,000 bottles in storage.

Thomas emphasizes their philosophy: “We are a library, not a museum.” This means that Jack Rose aims to make whiskey tasting accessible rather than forcing customers to gaze at rare bottles without ever sampling them. The pricing is set to encourage trying a variety of whiskeys, from everyday options costing around $6 to ultra-rare selections priced at $1,500 per ounce.

The selection process is rigorous; Thomas and his team ask whether they would personally recommend each whiskey in their inventory. They are particular about maintaining the quality of their offerings—only well-constructed spirits that justify their price points make the cut. This thorough gatekeeping process ensures that every bottle available is one worth enjoying.

Moreover, Jack Rose hosts exclusive release parties and whiskey dinners, featuring limited editions from renowned distilleries. With 800 barrels in Kentucky, the establishment works to pair their whiskey with fine food, enhancing the overall experience for patrons.

Since opening in 2011, the whiskey landscape has changed dramatically, especially after an influx of investors began producing subpar products that inflated the market. Thomas believes we are entering a golden age for whiskey enthusiasts, with prices becoming more reasonable while maintaining quality offerings. He asserts that now is arguably the best time in the bar’s history to be a whiskey lover.

For more information about Jack Rose Dining Saloon, you can explore their offerings and philosophy more through their website.