Liquor-articles 1990

Deprecated: Creation of dynamic property InsertPostAds::$settings is deprecated in /home/icohol/public_html/wp-content/plugins/insert-post-ads/insert-post-ads.php on line 425

In a saturated vodka market, where numerous brands vie for consumer attention, the redesign of New Amsterdam Vodka stands out as a significant evolution in branding. The task was handled by design agency ForceMAJEURE, which aimed to modernize the packaging while maintaining the brand’s recognizable elements.

New Amsterdam, owned by E. & J. Gallo, embarked on its first major redesign since its inception in order to enhance its visual identity and achieve a cohesive look across its product line. The fresh design features a striking midnight-blue palette, setting it apart from the typical clear and silver bottles that dominate the shelves.

One of the notable changes was elevating the iconic cityscape graphic, previously a mere decorative aspect, to become a central visual component. The refined vertical wordmark now imbues the bottle with a confident and contemporary presence, ensuring clear visibility whether on display in a store or behind the bar.

This comprehensive redesign was the result of close collaboration between the multidisciplinary team at ForceMAJEURE and E. & J. Gallo, spearheaded by Creative Director Michelle Mak. The redesign process was meticulously coordinated, driven by dedicated account and production professionals.

Key members of the creative team, including Tim Devereaux and Tianyun Jiang, contributed significantly to refining the label’s structure and enhancing the typographic hierarchy. Jiang played a crucial role in establishing the new visual aesthetic and contributing to broader design consistency.

The redesign has not gone unnoticed in the industry, earning numerous accolades such as a Silver Award from Graphis, a Gold Award at the 2026 MUSE Design Awards, and recognition from the PAC Global Award. These honors underscore the project’s strength and validate the high-quality craftsmanship and creative execution behind New Amsterdam Vodka’s revamped visual identity.

Yellowstone Bourbon has a storied history that dates back to 1872 when Joseph Bernard Dant named a series of whiskeys after Yellowstone National Park. Today, the brand is managed by his descendant, Stephen Beam, who, alongside his brother Paul, founded Limestone Branch Distillery in 2010 and revived the Yellowstone label. In 2015, they formed a partnership with Luxco, which was acquired by MGP in 2021.

The brand is particularly known for its annual Limited Edition releases, with the latest, the 2026 Limited Edition, being its 11th release. This bottling will be available nationwide starting August 2026.

For this year’s edition, Stephen Beam blended 7-year-old and 14-year-old Kentucky straight bourbons. Neither whiskey was produced at Limestone Branch. The 7-year-old is speculated to be sourced from Lux Row or another undisclosed distillery, while the 14-year component comes from an undisclosed Kentucky distillery.

After blending, the bourbon underwent secondary maturation in Ruby and Tawny Port casks for roughly 12 weeks, followed by a final bottling at a proof of 101 (50.5% ABV).

Upon tasting, the 2026 Limited Edition exhibits a rich nuttiness on the nose, with aromas reminiscent of peanut brittle, toffee, and dark dried fruits. The palate reveals similar nutty characteristics alongside dates, figs, and a hint of baked fruit. The finish offers burnt caramel notes, concluding a pleasant drinking experience.

At a price of $99, it’s positioned as a premium but moderately accessible bourbon, especially appealing to those fond of nutty, toffee-like flavors. The 2026 Limited Edition is available at the Limestone Branch Distillery Visitor’s Center and will soon roll out to wider distribution.

When preparing a rich vodka sauce, it might be tempting to opt for your finest vodka to impress your guests. However, experts suggest that this could be unnecessary. The flavors that make expensive vodka desirable for sipping or cocktails tend to vanish when it’s cooked down with tomatoes, cream, and other ingredients in a sauce. Instead, choosing a more reasonably priced vodka, like Smirnoff or Tito’s, will serve the recipe well without breaking the bank.

The key role of vodka in the sauce is not to impart a strong flavor but to enhance the taste of the tomatoes. Vodka helps to dissolve flavor compounds that wouldn’t blend as well with water or fat alone, contributing to a deeper, more balanced sauce. As the sauce cooks, the alcohol evaporates, leaving behind only its flavor-enhancing properties.

It’s also important to avoid the cheapest vodka, as it may leave an unpleasant aftertaste that doesn’t improve even after simmering for a long time. The recommended approach is to select a midrange vodka that won’t overpower the dish with harsh flavors.

After adding the vodka to your sauce, ensure you let it simmer for several minutes. This allows the alcohol to interact with the ingredients, enriching the overall flavor without the sauce tasting of vodka itself.

Though the history of vodka sauce remains somewhat unclear, what is evident is that a budget-friendly vodka can significantly enhance your homemade creamy tomato sauce. Save those high-end bottles for cocktails, and enjoy the culinary benefits of a more economical choice when cooking.

Fregate Island, located in the Seychelles, is set to reopen at the end of this year following a three-year renovation. A notable feature of this upgrade will be a custom onsite distillery equipped with a 60-liter still, aimed at enhancing the guest experience while promoting sustainability.

The distillery emphasizes a waste-to-wealth philosophy by transforming excess island produce into unique spirits. This initiative not only enriches the guest experience but also integrates seamlessly into the island’s sustainability programs. As explained by Lucas Girod and Richard Lee of Fregate Island’s food and beverage department, waste from the distillation process is recycled back into the island’s compost system, nourishing the land that produces the ingredients.

The distillery focuses on creating bespoke spirits that reflect the local culture, in response to the modern traveler’s desire for authenticity. The distillery’s offerings will initially include "Pirates Ruin Rum," crafted from island-grown sugarcane, and a unique gin that showcases local botanicals.

Girod and Lee describe the distillery as a narrative experience, encapsulating the essence of Fregate Island in each bottle. The decision to produce rum and gin stems from the region’s rich heritage and the desire to utilize local resources creatively.

As part of their renovation, the team seeks a careful recipe development process with master distillers, highlighting the importance of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The distillery was built in collaboration with BritStill, known for crafting bespoke copper pot stills, ensuring a unique piece of craftsmanship.

Guests will have the opportunity to participate in the distillation process, providing a hands-on experience that connects them to the land and the spirit-making process. Everything from the sugarcane stalks is utilized, promoting a closed-loop system that underscores the commitment to sustainability.

This distilling experience aims to forge a deeper connection between visitors and the island, keeping the fresh flavors of its environment at the forefront of the Fregate Island experience.

When it comes to enjoying quality rum, beginners might feel overwhelmed by the variety available. To simplify the selection process, Robyn Smith, PhD, founder of an experimental rum distillery, shares essential tips for identifying quality rum.

Look for Transparency in Production

Smith emphasizes the importance of brand transparency. Seek out rums that disclose information about their production processes, such as where the rum was made, what ingredients were used, and how long it was aged. Transparency allows you to better understand what you are drinking and helps you develop your palate.

Specificity is Key

Avoid vague marketing terms like "premium" or "smooth." Instead, focus on specific labels that indicate the rum’s base ingredients, such as "molasses-based" or "cane juice." This specificity provides clarity about what you’re consuming and ensures the rum holds up to its claims.

Don’t Judge by Color Alone

It’s a common misconception that darker rums are always of higher quality. However, Smith points out that color can be a misleading indicator since rums may be artificially colored or sweetened. Instead, focus on the aroma and taste. Experiment with a variety of rums to discover different flavor profiles.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV)

The ABV percentage is crucial; rum needs to be at least 40% ABV to qualify as rum. A higher ABV often indicates a focus on flavor rather than dilution. If it’s below 40%, it’s classified as a "rum-based liqueur."

Taste for Balance

Lastly, when tasting rum, look for balance in flavors. A well-made rum may be bold or even funky, but it should feel intentional and well-crafted. Don’t shy away from unflavored varieties initially, as they can provide a clearer understanding of rum’s true character.

By considering these factors, beginners can more confidently navigate the wide world of rum, ultimately leading to a richer appreciation of this diverse spirit.

In the realm of whiskey production, barrel entry strength is a crucial yet often overlooked factor that significantly impacts the spirit’s final taste, aroma, and overall experience. This term refers to the percentage of pure alcohol in the whiskey mixture placed into the barrel for aging. According to master mixologist Justin Lavenue, the concentration of alcohol affects how efficiently different flavor compounds are extracted from the barrel, influencing sweetness, tannins, and overall flavor profile.

Typically, the barrel entry strength in the U.S. should not exceed 62.5% alcohol, or 125 proof. However, distillers may choose a lower proof, impacting the total volume produced and the operational costs. Lavenue highlights that while this detail can give insight into a whiskey’s character, it shouldn’t be the sole determinant in selecting a whiskey. He compares it to assessing a car by its tire pressure; it matters but doesn’t define the driving experience.

Notably, the strength of whiskey found on store shelves often differs from the barrel entry strength. Distillers frequently blend or dilute their products to achieve consistent flavors, except for bottles marked "barrel strength" or "cask strength," which present the whiskey as it is drawn from the barrel.

Despite the importance of barrel entry strength, it should be considered alongside other factors like age and brand reputation. For whiskey enthusiasts, understanding this aspect can provide clarity on how two seemingly similar whiskeys differ in taste and quality.

Sailor Jerry is a spiced rum renowned for its robust flavor, which originates from the art of Norman Collins, also known as Sailor Jerry. Collins was a pivotal figure in the tattoo community and drew inspiration for the rum from his own experiences as a sailor in the U.S. Navy. The rum itself is a tribute to the rich heritage of maritime rums, developed in response to how sailors enhanced their rum during the 1800s.

The rum, officially launched in the 1990s, is known for its high proof of 92 in the U.S. and 80 in the U.K. The combination of real spices and a unique distillation process gives Sailor Jerry its distinctive characteristics. Originally blended by Steven Grasse of the William Grant & Sons distillery, it stems from a desire to fill a niche in the rum market.

Upon tasting, Sailor Jerry possesses complex notes of almond, oak, and cinnamon, combined with a warmth suitable for those who favor strong spirits. The intense flavor profile reflects its robust proof, presenting a slightly syrupy nose with hints of clove and sweetness that becomes more apparent as it breathes.

The production of Sailor Jerry aligns with maritime traditions, enhancing the flavor with Caribbean rums instead of the usual aging in wooden casks. A rebranding in 2010 introduced a sleek, modern label that pays homage to Collins’ legacy, prominently featuring a tattoo-style hula girl.

Sailor Jerry can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in various cocktails. Its strong flavor can lend itself well to cocktails like cranberry daiquiris and rum punches, as well as signature beverages like the Cup O’ Jerry and Stormin’ Sailor.

In comparison to Captain Morgan, another well-known spiced rum, Sailor Jerry stands out with its higher proof and bolder flavor profile. While Captain Morgan offers a smoother experience with sweeter vanilla notes, Sailor Jerry appeals to seasoned drinkers seeking a robust rum experience.

Norman Collins, the true Sailor Jerry, is widely regarded as the father of traditional American tattooing. His tattoo style emerged during the maritime exploration era, symbolizing freedom and individuality. Collins’ legacy is celebrated at various festivals and tattoo events, highlighting his impact on the art form. Further, his shop in Honolulu continues to honor his memory.

Despite having a rum named after him, Collins himself was not a heavy drinker, a fact brought to light during a family legal dispute regarding the permission for using his name and art. His legacy continues through the enduring popularity of Sailor Jerry rum and its connection to the vibrant tattoo culture he helped to establish.

If you’ve ever enjoyed a watermelon filled with vodka during your college days, this grown-up twist on that experience might be just what you need. It’s a refreshing summer drink that features frozen watermelon blended with vodka, elevating the simple pleasure of a classic summer fruit.

Creating this watermelon vodka slush is quite easy, although it does take some time for the watermelon to freeze. You can start by chopping a ripe watermelon into chunks and spreading those on a baking tray to freeze. Once they’re solid, blend the frozen watermelon with vodka until it reaches your preferred slush consistency. For an even colder drink, chilling the vodka beforehand is recommended. If you’re not in the mood for the hassle, using store-bought watermelon juice with ice and vodka is a quick alternative.

While some might add sugar, a ripe summer watermelon is usually sweet enough on its own. However, if you prefer a sweeter drink, a spoonful of sugar or honey can enhance the flavor. Alternatively, you can substitute some of the vodka with a sweet sparkling wine like Prosecco.

Tips for the Perfect Slushie

When selecting a watermelon, ensure that you remove any seeds to avoid an odd texture in your drink. Garnishing with mint and a lime wedge can beautifully complement the slushie. If you’re looking for a greater depth of flavor, consider blending in some mint or basil leaves along with a splash of lime juice.

Vodka’s neutral taste pairs well with watermelon, allowing the fruit’s sweetness to shine and softening vodka’s sharper notes. If vodka doesn’t appeal to you, experimenting with white rum or tequila can create a delightful watermelon cocktail reminiscent of a margarita.

With summer in full swing, now is the perfect time to try this nostalgic and refreshing drink, or explore other watermelon recipes to celebrate the season.

Mojitos, a refreshing cocktail made from muddled mint, lime, rum, and a hint of sugar, are the quintessential drink for warm weather. As National Mojito Day approaches, it’s the perfect time to celebrate this crisp, herbal beverage all summer long.

According to Giancarlo Morales, a principal bartender at Fool’s Errand in Boston, a well-crafted mojito is about balance rather than being overly sweet. The cocktail serves as a versatile canvas where different rums can add unique flavors. Morales suggests that high-quality rum not only contributes alcohol but also enhances the character of the drink. A Jamaican rum can introduce tropical notes, while a cleaner Spanish-style rum keeps it crisp.

Here are five rums to consider for your mojito this summer:

1. Plantation 3 Stars Rum

This flavorful white rum blends Caribbean traditions from Barbados, Jamaica, and Trinidad. It has complex notes of mango, papaya, and vanilla, ensuring your mojito shines through the ice and soda.

2. Bacardí Superior Rum

Known for its rounded mouthfeel and crisp finish, Bacardí Superior is a go-to choice for a classic mojito. This rum has made a name for itself as a foundational ingredient in many traditional recipes.

3. Copalli Organic Cacao Rum

This unique Belizean rum incorporates cacao nibs, giving your mojito a slightly bittersweet profile. Its blend of mint and cacao creates a deliciously unexpected drink.

4. Palm Republic Silver Rum

This blend, distilled in Jamaica and the U.S. Virgin Islands, offers subtle notes of banana and sugarcane, creating a softly layered mojito. It’s a newer brand that can help you impress friends this summer.

5. Oxbow Barrel Aged Straight Rum

For those who appreciate an aged rum, Oxbow’s expression offers a molasses-forward flavor that changes the game for traditional mojitos. The aging process enhances its sweetness, allowing you to reduce added sugar and savor the drink in the evenings.

Experimenting with different rums not only revitalizes the classic mojito but also allows you to tailor the flavor profile to your liking. Whether sipping poolside or at an evening gathering, these variations promise a delightful cocktail experience.

Whiskey is often considered an acquired taste, appreciated for its complex flavors but sometimes criticized for its bitterness. For those who find whiskey’s strong notes a bit overwhelming, there’s a straightforward remedy that you can easily apply whether you’re at home or in a bar: a touch of sugar. According to experts Rodrigo Urraca and Eric van Beek from Handshake Speakeasy, sugar can help mellow out the bitter taste of whiskey.

If you’re at a bar, opt for whiskey-based cocktails that incorporate syrups or other sweet ingredients. For home experiments, simple additions like a sugar rim or a spoonful of sugar can help. For a more adventurous twist, consider blending in canned or fresh fruits to your whiskey.

Alternatively, you can choose to enjoy whiskey neat and pair it with something sweeter on the side, like peanut butter or chocolate. This pairing technique can help train your palate to appreciate the rich flavors of whiskey while making its bitterness more tolerable. As Urraca and van Beek suggest, achieving balance is key to enhancing your drinking experience.

Sugar isn’t the only kitchen staple that can enhance your cocktails. Salt can also play a crucial role in elevating flavors. A tiny pinch of salt can make a cocktail come alive, adding depth without overwhelming the palate. The same principle applies to other salty ingredients, such as soy sauce, which can add complexity.

However, caution is advised when incorporating salt, especially in drinks meant to lessen whiskey’s bitterness. Salt pairs excellently with tequila, enhancing its flavor profile without masking it. For example, a salt rim can significantly elevate the flavor of margaritas.

By applying these tips to your whiskey experience, you can improve your enjoyment of this complex spirit. Whether you’re mixing at home or ordering at a bar, remember that small adjustments can lead to a more enjoyable drink.

For further exploration of whiskey and cocktails, check out:

• Handshake Speakeasy
• 1800 Tequila
• Upgrade your whiskey with fruits
• Pairing whiskey with chocolate