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In recent years, Irish whiskey has begun to emerge from the shadows of bourbon and Scotch, gaining recognition for its complexity and quality. Historically dismissed as a cheap dive bar option or primarily associated with St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, Irish whiskey is now experiencing a renaissance, bolstered by a resurgence in distillery numbers and consumer interest.

Oscar Adrian Montes Iga, an education team manager at Uncorked Vintage Academia in Austin, notes that the number of distilleries in Ireland has grown from fewer than ten a few years ago to approximately 40 today, suggesting a potential return to the nearly 100 distilleries that existed in the early 1800s. This renewed production is driven by an increasing demand from consumers who are beginning to appreciate the nuanced flavors that Irish whiskey can offer.

Mark McLaughlin, director of Irish spirits at The Dead Rabbit in New York City, observes that consumer perception is shifting away from a Jameson-centric view, revealing a broader spectrum of offerings in Irish whiskey. He emphasizes that what’s happening now in Irish whiskey is more than just a fleeting trend—it is a momentum that could define the category for decades to come.

Current producers are diversifying their approaches, experimenting with unique grains and innovative aging processes. Here are some standout selections representing the frontier of Irish whiskey:

Redbreast 18-Year-Old

This beloved single-pot still whiskey enhances its classic profile with maturation in ex-bourbon and oloroso sherry casks. McLaughlin praises the precision of the new master blender, Dave McCabe, highlighting the depth and balance achieved in this exceptional offering.

Lost Irish

Lost Irish leverages a mix of barrels from six continents, creating a complex whiskey with flavors from ex-bourbon, rum, sherry, and brandy casks. Abigail Gullo, creative director at Loa Bar in New Orleans, notes its depth of character and multitude of flavors.

Egan’s Fortitude Irish Single Malt

This unique expression is aged entirely in Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, resulting in a rich profile characterized by date, fig, and bittersweet notes. Montes Iga describes its qualities as showcasing both single malt attributes and unique flavors brought on by its unconventional aging process.

Waterford Cuvée Gaia

Exemplifying innovation, Waterford’s approach focuses on the terroir by sourcing barley from organic farms. The Gaia Cuvée blends multiple single malt distillates, producing a complex flavor that reflects its unique agricultural origins.

Clonakilty Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey

Celebrating tradition, Clonakilty combines malted and unmalted barley, offering a unique profile that includes candied ginger and orchard fruits, enhanced by the influence of various ex-bourbon and sherry casks.

Shortcross Distillers Duo

This blend combines single malt and single-pot still whiskeys from the same distillery, creating a bold and youthful spirit that features both characters. McLaughlin notes the vibrancy and complex flavor profile produced by this innovative blend.

The Irish whiskey landscape is rapidly evolving, showcasing a new generation of distillers committed to quality and innovation. With this growth, Irish whiskey is not merely having a moment; it is carving out a lasting legacy in the world of fine spirits.

The American whiskey market is currently grappling with significant challenges, including layoffs at major companies like Brown-Forman and reduced production from key distillers like MGP. A recent report from the Distilled Spirits Council noted a revenue decline of 1.8% in the whiskey category from 2023 to 2024.

Conversely, Irish whiskey is experiencing rising popularity in the U.S. market, with sales increasing by 1.8%, ranking it as the fourth fastest-growing spirit by revenue. Premium and super-premium Irish whiskey categories have enjoyed remarkable growth, with increases of 816% and 1,874% respectively since 2003.

Irish distilleries like The Muff Liquor Company and Boann Distillery are seizing this opportunity to expand their presence in the U.S. market. The Muff Liquor Company launched in February 2025, distributing products across 31 states. Its founder, Laura Bonner, indicated that their first order in America was about 30,000 cases, exceeding the distillery’s entire global sales from the previous year. Bonner emphasized the appeal of Irish heritage and craftsmanship, which resonates well with American consumers.

Similarly, Boann Distillery has been involved in the U.S. market since 2020 under their brand The Whistler and is now expanding with a premium line of single pot still whiskeys. Co-founder Peter Cooney noted the challenges of entering the U.S. market, citing the complex regulations and competition for shelf space. To address these challenges, Boann focuses on a strategic approach, targeting key states and premium pricing to reach the right consumer demographic.

Both distilleries aim to position themselves as craft alternatives to established brands like Jameson, which currently dominates over 70% of Irish whiskey sales. The Muff emphasizes its unique potato-based spirits, while Boann highlights its custom cask programs and single pot still expressions.

Looking ahead, the prospects for Irish whiskey in the U.S. appear promising. Cooney pointed out that American consumers are well-informed about whiskey, which creates a favorable environment for Irish brands. Additionally, potential tariff advantages may arise if European Union tariffs on American bourbon are reinstated, a prospect likely to benefit Irish whiskey under current trade negotiations.

As trends shift toward premium and craft spirits, Irish whiskey is well-positioned to leverage both market dynamics and policy changes, potentially reshaping its reputation in the U.S. spirits landscape.

The Caribbean is home to some of the world’s finest rums, particularly those that have consistently won gold medals in international spirits competitions. Here’s a look at twelve standout options, noted for their exceptional craftsmanship and unique flavor profiles.

Mount Gay XO (Barbados)

Mount Gay, established in 1703, is recognized as one of the oldest rum distilleries. The XO blend, aged 8 to 15 years, is crafted from molasses through a combination of pot and column stills, typically aged in ex-bourbon casks. Its rich aromas include vanilla, toffee, toasted oak, and dark chocolate, offering a palate of caramel, tropical fruits, especially bananas, and dried fruits. The finish is long, smooth, and slightly spiced.

Angostura 7-Year-Old (Trinidad & Tobago)

Produced since the early 20th century, this rum consists of a blend of light and heavy rums distilled from molasses. Aged in ex-bourbon barrels, it has notes of vanilla, dried fruits, and seasoned oak on the nose, with a rich and smooth palate featuring caramel, spice, and nuttiness.

Appleton Estate 12-Year-Old Rare Blend (Jamaica)

Established in 1749, Appleton Estate’s 12-Year-Old blend combines rums aged from 12 to 18 years. Aromas of candied orange peel, spices, and toasted oak greet the nose. The palate reveals flavors of toffee, dark chocolate, and coffee, with a long, smooth finish.

Rhum J.M XO (Martinique)

Famed for its Rhum Agricole, Rhum J.M produces its XO expression from fresh sugarcane juice. Distilled using a Creole column still and aged in oak barrels, the rum boasts a nose of vanilla, oak, and dried fruit, leading to flavors of tropical fruits and spices.

Rhum Saint James VSOP (Martinique)

This VSOP expression is another example of high-quality Rhum Agricole, distilled from fresh sugarcane juice and aged for at least four years. With aromas of vanilla and caramel, it provides a smooth palate with tropical fruits and a light spice finish.

Mount Gay Eclipse (Barbados)

Mount Gay Eclipse is a vibrant, medium-bodied rum made from a blend of 2-5 year old rums. It combines notes of vanilla and tropical fruit on the nose, while the palate experiences flavors of caramel and light spice with a refreshing finish.

Barbancourt 8-Year-Old (Haiti)

This distinguished rum is crafted from fresh sugarcane juice and aged in oak barrels. It offers a nose with vanilla and dried fruit, while the palate showcases caramel and a touch of spice, concluding with a long finish featuring a slight pepperiness.

Zaya Gran Reserva (Trinidad)

Known for its rich flavor, Zaya Gran Reserva is a blend of rums aged for up to 12 years. It presents aromas of caramel and dark chocolate, with pronounced flavors of toffee and spices on the palate, resulting in a smooth and slightly spicy finish.

Pyrat XO Reserve (Anguilla)

This premium rum, crafted from molasses and aged in bourbon and sherry casks, features a nose of orange peel and honey. The smooth palate reveals flavors of vanilla and citrus, finishing with a lingering touch of wood spice.

Ron Zacapa 23 (Guatemala)

Aged between 6 to 23 years, this Guatemalan rum is distilled from sugarcane honey and aged in various casks. It offers aromas of brown sugar and dark chocolate, with a silky palate showcasing dried fruits and a long, spicy finish.

The Real McCoy 12 YO (Barbados)

Distilled at the Foursquare Distillery, this rum aged in heavily charred oak barrels presents a nose with vanilla and caramel. Its smooth palate is enriched with honey and a subtle fruitiness, boasting a slightly spicy finish.

Foursquare Rum 12-Year-Old (Cask Strength)

This limited-edition release from the Foursquare Distillery displays intense flavors, crafted from molasses and aged for 12 years. With notes of caramel and dark chocolate, it offers a rich palate of toffee and spices, culminating in a long-lasting finish.

These rums highlight the quality and complexity of Caribbean spirits, each bringing a unique character to the table, appreciated by rum enthusiasts globally. For further insights into the best rums, you can explore more about The World’s Best Rum According to the 2024 IWSC Judging and The Rum of the Year According to the Beverage Testing Institute.

This spring, the cocktail scene is embracing freshness, with a focus on using seasonal ingredients to create vibrant and flavorful drinks. Bartenders are crafting recipes that feature sweet and juicy components, and vodka proves to be a versatile base for these concoctions.

One standout cocktail from the Ketel One brand is the Sea Breeze. This refreshing blend combines Ketel One Vodka with tart cranberry juice and freshly squeezed pink grapefruit juice, making for a deliciously tangy drink that captures the essence of spring. To prepare it, simply shake the ingredients with ice, strain into a chilled glass, and garnish with a lime wedge and orange zest.

Another innovative offering is the Ketel One King’s Mary, which takes a creative approach by incorporating carrot and apple juices for a unique flavor and vibrant color. The addition of tamarind and ginger paste adds an intriguing zest, complemented by a garnish of an orange slice or carrot.

Ketel One Sea Breeze

Ingredients:

• 50.0 ml Ketel One Vodka
• 75.0 ml Cranberry Juice
• 30.0 ml Freshly Squeezed Pink Grapefruit Juice
• Lime wedge for garnish

Method:

1. Chill a coupe glass.
2. In a shaker, combine the vodka, cranberry juice, and grapefruit juice with ice.
3. Shake well and strain into the chilled glass.
4. Garnish with orange zest shavings.

Ketel One King’s Mary

Ingredients:

• 50.0 ml Ketel One Vodka
• 100.0 ml Equal parts Carrot & Apple juice
• 30.0 ml Freshly Squeezed Orange juice
• Pinch of rock salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and dried chili flakes
• 0.5 tsp Tamarind
• 0.5 tsp Ginger paste
• Orange slice or carrot for garnish

Method:

1. In a highball glass, add all the ingredients over ice.
2. Stir gently and finish with a garnish of an orange slice or carrot.

These cocktails exemplify how vodka can be leveraged to create fresh and invigorating flavors, perfect for enjoying in the warmer months. Whether you prefer a classic Sea Breeze or are excited to try the King’s Mary, these drinks are sure to impress.

Phil Massaro delves into a comparative analysis of two powerful cartridges: the .300 Remington Ultra Magnum and the .30-378 Weatherby Magnum. Both these rounds cater to enthusiasts who prefer high-velocity, long-range shooting.

The trajectory of .30-caliber magnums in the shooting community began in 1925 with the introduction of the .300 Holland & Holland Magnum. This was followed by the .300 Weatherby Magnum that outpaced the previous standard—the 30-06 Springfield. The evolution continued, with the early ’60s seeing introductions from both Norma and Winchester. It wasn’t until 1996 that Weatherby launched the .30-378 Magnum, initially developed to fulfill military specifications for high-speed rounds. This cartridge has a distinctive belted case, modified to accommodate .30-caliber bullets and utilize slow-burning propellants. Standard factory-loaded ammunition can achieve impressive velocities, generating significant energy at the muzzle.

In contrast, the .300 Remington Ultra Magnum debuted in 1999, drawing inspiration from the Canadian Magnum series and designed for efficient shooting. This cartridge sports a slightly smaller case and is beltless, relying on its shoulder for headspacing. In factory-loaded ammunition, it generally showcases velocities slightly lower than the .30-378 with 180-grain bullets, and is capable of significant power, accommodating nearly 100 grains of slow-burning powder.

Both cartridges excel when it comes to case capacity and velocity, though the .300 RUM is reported to have an edge in terms of efficiency. This is primarily due to its rimless design, allowing it to maintain a longer case life without the stretching seen in belted models like the Weatherby. Moreover, ammunition for the .300 RUM tends to be less expensive, making it more accessible to shooters.

In conclusion, while both cartridges display exceptional performance and capabilities, the .300 Remington Ultra Magnum stands out for its efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and broader availability in the market. For many shooters, this makes it a more sensible choice, despite the allure of the .30-378 Weatherby Magnum’s higher advertised velocity.

For those considering a new addition to their arsenal or looking to delve deeper into long-range shooting precision, understanding these two cartridges can significantly influence their choice.

Whiskey River Pub and Grill is expanding its reach in Rochester with a new location at the Port of Rochester. The establishment will occupy a prime spot on the second floor of the Port of Rochester building, offering patrons a scenic view alongside its signature dining experience.

The announcement made by the City of Rochester in January hinted at this exciting development, which aims to enhance the area’s waterfront dining options and attract more visitors to the port. The new venue, dubbed Whiskey’s Upper Deck, is expected to provide a vibrant atmosphere for both local residents and tourists alike.

For more information, you can read about it here.

Rum is a remarkable spirit, deeply rooted in sugarcane history, and has been distilled for over four centuries. Originally from the Caribbean, it has spread its influence globally, with distilleries found everywhere from Canada to Cape Town. Amidst the vast array of options, identifying the standout bottle is no easy task. Yet, three bartenders seem to unanimously acclaim one specific rum: Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva.

This expression from the 66-year-old Venezuelan distillery is lauded for its delicate balance of heavy and light rums, aged up to 12 years. It features inviting aromas of orange zest and anise, complemented by a luscious body that blends flavors of vanilla and pineapple, culminating in a finish laden with dried tobacco. At an accessible price point of $33 a bottle, it is revered for both sipping and mixing in cocktails.

Giancarlo Quiroz Jesus, the beverage director at 53AD in Brooklyn, praises the rum for its versatility. He enjoys it neat, where its complexity shines, but recognizes its strength in cocktails as well. His favorite preparation is an Old Fashioned, which he feels transforms beautifully over the course of the drink. He appreciates that it stands alone as a fine spirit yet remains accessible for cocktail enthusiasts.

Sarah An, a bartender at Jolene Sound Room in Miami, also favors Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva. She enjoys it neat to fully appreciate its rich flavors, particularly in a Carajillo cocktail, which has become popular among her patrons.

Christine Wiseman, the US Bartender of the Year at the 2023 Tales of the Cocktail, offers her insights as well. She highlights the rum’s complex flavor profile with notes of toffee and chocolate, making it an exceptional choice for cocktails like a rum Manhattan. She believes its Venezuelan origin adds an enticing cultural element that resonates with consumers.

With the endorsements from these experts, it’s clear why Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva is regarded as a premier rum choice. If you have your own opinions about the best rum out there, share them in the comments!

According to food influencer @snachwithzach, there are rumors that Reese’s will launch a new peanut butter and jelly flavor soon. This nostalgic snack is expected to arrive later this spring and has excited fans eager to indulge in this childhood favorite.

In other news, the fast-food landscape has shifted with Mixue, a Chinese chain specializing in bubble tea and ice cream, surpassing McDonald’s as the world’s largest food and beverage chain by number of locations, boasting over 45,000 stores.

Additionally, meet the Sloppy Otto, a delightful spin on the classic Sloppy Joe, perfect for those who love a sandwich served on a pretzel bun. KFC is also planning significant changes for its brand in 2025, while Costco members remain loyal to their rotisserie chickens, with fun facts emerging about their popular offering.

For those craving healthy eating options, registered dietitians have identified the healthiest fast food sandwich, along with easy tips for making nutritious selections at any fast-food restaurant.

On the recipe front, there are suggestions for quick and easy dishes, including a highly-rated three-ingredient chicken breast recipe and vegetarian options perfect for Sunday dinner.

Lastly, be aware that not all fruits are worth buying at Costco; knowing what to avoid can help save money.

Irish whiskey has seen remarkable growth as a spirit category, with the number of distilleries in Ireland rising from just two to over 45 in the past four decades. U.S. sales now surpass a billion dollars. Here are 10 award-winning Irish whiskeys, all priced under $60, celebrated for their exceptional value and quality.

1. Powers Gold Label Hand Crafted Triple Distilled Irish Whiskey

• ABV: 43.2%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Price: $32
  Powers Gold Label is a classic single pot still whiskey rich in flavors. Its triple distillation and maturation in bourbon and sherry casks create a robust profile with notes of honey, vanilla, and dried fruits. The finish is long and warming.

2. Teeling Small Batch Whiskey

• ABV: 46%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Price: $37
  A blend of malt and grain whiskeys, aged in ex-bourbon and finished in rum casks. It offers sweet tropical fruit notes, caramel, and a smooth palate highlighted by toffee and coconut. The finish is slightly sweet with lingering fruitiness.

3. McConnell’s Sherry Cask Finish 5 YO Irish Whiskey

• ABV: 46%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Price: $43
  McConnell’s Irish Whiskey adds depth through finishing in Oloroso sherry casks. It features rich, aromatic notes of dried fruit and dark chocolate, alongside hints of figs and light nuttiness. The finish is smooth and long.

4. Powers Three Swallow Release

• ABV: 40%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Price: $55
  This whiskey showcases the authentic pot still style with a creamy palate filled with dried fruit, citrus peel, and spices. It’s known for its smoothness and long, silky finish.

5. Teeling Single Grain Irish Whiskey

• ABV: 46%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Price: $50
  Made from a high percentage of corn and aged in Cabernet Sauvignon wine casks, it presents fruity notes of cherries and strawberries with a dry, lingering finish.

6. Teeling Single Malt Irish Whiskey

• ABV: 46%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Price: $58
  A pioneering blend aged in five different cask types, it showcases tropical fruits and nutty undertones, with a rich, complex flavor profile and a long finish.

7. Powers ‘Signature Release’ Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey

• ABV: 46%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Price: $54
  A complex whiskey with sweet and spicy notes. The palate is smooth with ripe fruits and subtle sherry oak notes, continuing into a medium-length finish.

8. Jameson Select Reserve Black Barrel

• ABV: 40%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Price: $44
  This blended whiskey boasts deep flavors from aging in charred bourbon casks. Rich caramel, vanilla, and light smokiness make for a decadent profile with a long finish.

9. Kilbeggan Distilling 8 YO Single Grain Irish Whiskey

• ABV: 40%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Price: $44
  A smooth expression from one of the oldest distilleries, it features light vanilla and malt, balanced with oak and honey notes. The finish is sweet with underlying oak flavors.

10. The Irishman Small Batch Single Malt Irish Whiskey

• ABV: 40%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Price: $53
  This whiskey marries bourbon and sherry aging, yielding flavors of vanilla, dried fruit, and a touch of oak. Its long finish leaves lingering sweetness and spice.

These selections showcase a variety of flavor profiles and production methods, all having earned gold medals at international competitions, making them excellent choices for both newcomers and seasoned whiskey enthusiasts. For more top picks, check out The Top Irish Whiskeys According to the World Whiskies Awards.

Nicole Young, initially a vodka drinker, found her love for whiskey through a flavored variant introduced by a colleague. This pivotal tasting period began in 2014 when Young was collaborating with James Landis, who had recently launched a pecan whiskey called William Wolf Pecan Bourbon. Young, who had struggled to enjoy traditional whiskey due to its harshness, found this flavored bourbon refreshing and intriguing.

In discussions with Landis, they explored the common flavor notes of whiskey like wood smoke, caramel, and vanilla. Young questioned the lack of flavored whiskeys that emphasized caramel and vanilla, prompting the duo to experiment and create something unique. They initially planned to integrate this new creation into Landis’s brand, but the distinctiveness of their whiskey led them to launch it as a separate entity.

The name "Frisky Whiskey" emerged from a casual suggestion that the whiskey tasted "kind of frisky." Young resonated with the idea behind the name, viewing "frisky" as a positive vibe associated with fun and enjoyment. They successfully built a vision and branding around it, garnering enthusiastic feedback from everyone who heard the name.

Frisky Whiskey officially launched in Charleston, SC, in 2022, coinciding with favorable market conditions. The flavored whiskey market was projected to grow significantly, driven by changing consumer preferences. With an impressive initial reception, Frisky Whiskey earned accolades, including a score of 95 out of 100 and a Chairman’s Trophy at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge, in addition to a gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Since its launch, Frisky Whiskey expanded from a single city to multiple states such as New York, New Jersey, Georgia, Michigan, Texas, Florida, and Illinois, with plans to grow its distribution into the Maryland-Virginia-Washington D.C. area to meet rising demand. As Young emphasizes, their strategic growth is centered on targeting specific markets that show a strong interest due to Frisky’s unique offerings.