Liquor-articles 1905

Thieves made headlines this summer after stealing 12,000 bottles of craft whiskey from Westland Distillery in Burlington, Washington, a loss valued at nearly $1 million. The heist involved a freight truck that arrived at the distillery’s warehouse on July 31, presenting fraudulent paperwork for a shipment of Westland’s spirits destined for New Jersey.

Jason Moore, the managing director of Westland, indicated that the audacity of the scheme and the rarity of the stolen bottles, particularly the distillery’s first 10-year Garryana whiskey, made this theft unusual. The bottles were set to celebrate the distillery’s decade in operation, but the scheme was discovered only a week later, leading to an investigation by the Skagit Valley Sheriff’s Office.

Experts suggest that selling such stolen goods may prove to be challenging. Mark Gillespie, host of the WhiskyCast podcast, noted that the rarity and recognition of the bottles would make it difficult for thieves to market them. In the U.S., liquor sales are regulated under a three-tier system, complicating illegal sales on the secondary market. Contrary to much of Europe, where auction houses facilitate such transactions, reselling alcohol independently in the U.S. is largely illegal.

The Garryana whiskey holds significance due to its production from the Quercus garryana oak tree native to the Pacific Northwest, and it has received top accolades, including being named the third-best whiskey globally by Whisky Advocate magazine in 2023. This limited-edition liquor is known to sell out quickly each year, contributing to its desirability and the potential for inflated prices on whatever remaining inventory exists after the theft.

In light of the incident, Moore stated that Westland is prioritizing customer engagement and security measures over the ongoing investigation. While losing $1 million could significantly impact a smaller distillery, experts believe Westland will weather the storm, especially after being acquired by France’s Remy Cointreau Group in 2016. Gillespie provided a cautionary note for potential buyers, advising them to report any illegal whiskey offers to the authorities.

For more information, visit NBC News.

Jack Daniel’s Distillery has introduced a unique offering titled the "Distillery Series Selection #15," which stands out due to its use of a sweet mash process, a departure from their usual sour mash technique. The sweet mash method involves fermenting without backset, requiring greater precision and control, making it more challenging than the sour mash approach that most American whiskey producers, including Jack Daniel’s, typically employ.

This particular whiskey is sourced from the beginning of the 2016 distillation season and has been aged for nearly nine years in a high-temperature environment within the brand’s barrelhouses. Kathy Thurmond, the Quality Control Manager and Whiskey Taster, personally selected the barrels used for this limited release. Bottled at 117 proof, the whiskey maintains a traditional mash bill of 80% corn, 12% malted barley, and 8% rye.

Jack Daniel’s Master Distiller, Chris Fletcher, expressed excitement regarding the depth and complexity imparted by this process, highlighting the richness that comes from extended aging. Tasting notes for the whiskey describe flavors of butterscotch, with hints of pecan, berry, and caramel.

The Distillery Series Selection #15 will be available exclusively at the White Rabbit Bottle Shop in Lynchburg, Tennessee, in 375 milliliter bottles, priced at $44.99. This unique whiskey presents an opportunity for distillery enthusiasts to experience the flavor variations resulting from different production techniques.

Au Vodka has faced criticism from the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) due to its social media advertisements that allegedly targeted underage audiences. The controversy arose when a complainant pointed out that two paid Facebook ads showcased influencers who were younger than 25, which raised concerns about their appropriateness for a demographic that includes children.

One notable ad featured YouTuber Kai Cenat, who was 23 at the time, unboxing a bottle of Au Vodka Juicy Peach and consuming the product. Although Au Vodka had applied specific location targeting for the ad to ensure it reached U.S. audiences compliant with local advertising laws, it was still visible to users in Great Britain during the ASA’s review.

Another Facebook advertisement, which included a 24-year-old woman inviting viewers to try Au Vodka, also violated advertising regulations according to the ASA. While the brand argued that TikTok influencer Lucinda Strafford’s post wouldn’t appeal to those under 18, the ASA concluded that the content, linked to popular culture and television shows, could attract underage viewers.

The ASA ultimately upheld the complaints, declaring that ads related to alcoholic beverages must not be directed at individuals under 18 years of age. They emphasized that, given the age restrictions on TikTok accounts and the widespread appeal of the Love Island series among younger audiences, there was a strong chance that users underaged could engage with this content.

Au Vodka has been contacted for further comments regarding this ruling.

For more details, visit the ASA’s ruling.

Whiskey stones have become a trendy alternative to traditional ice for chilling drinks, but their usage warrants caution. While they effectively cool your beverage without dilution, they could also pose risks to your glassware and teeth.

Caitlin Bartlemay, a master distiller at Hood River Distillers, highlighted that whiskey stones, made from materials such as soapstone or steel, are denser than ice. This added weight can damage glassware, especially if stones have sharp edges that may scratch or chip the interior of more delicate glasses. Bartlemay advises against using them with crystal glassware due to this risk.

Another consideration is safety while consuming drinks. Unlike ice, whiskey stones won’t clump together, potentially leading to an unpleasant encounter if they slip into your mouth unexpectedly during a sip. Bartlemay emphasizes being mindful to avoid these accidents.

For those concerned about dilution but still wanting to enjoy their whiskey at the right temperature, solutions exist beyond whiskey stones. Storing whiskey in a temperature-regulated wine fridge allows for precise cooling without risking harm to your drink as ice does. A wine refrigerator can be a cost-effective investment compared to multiple visits to the dentist for mishaps associated with whiskey stones.

Read more about whiskey care and enjoyment here.

Michigan’s beloved Apple Pie Vodka has made its annual return to shelves, pleasing adult fans of fall flavors. Produced by Gypsy Spirits in collaboration with Blake’s Hard Cider, this limited-release drink celebrates the essence of autumn in Michigan.

The Apple Pie Vodka is crafted by blending fresh apples from Blake’s Orchard with cinnamon and various spices, which Gypsy Spirits then distills to create a rich, amber-hued vodka. This tasty spirit can be enjoyed straight or as part of seasonal cocktails.

Michael Kazanowski, co-owner of Gypsy Spirits, expressed pride in the partnership with Blake’s Hard Cider, highlighting their shared commitment to quality and local agriculture. He described the Apple Pie Vodka as "comfort, spice, and Michigan fall bottled."

As a limited release, Apple Pie Vodka is available at Gypsy Spirits’ tasting rooms in Traverse City and Petoskey, as well as at Blake’s retail locations. It can also be found in stores and restaurants throughout Michigan, and even in Chicago.

In addition to Apple Pie Vodka, the collaboration has introduced an American Apple Whiskey made from Blake’s Honeycrisp apples and sweet cider. This partnership not only showcases the vibrant fall beverage offerings but also exemplifies the strength of Michigan’s craft beverage scene.

Has the whiskey boom turned into a bust? While recent headlines might suggest so, an in-depth analysis of market data reveals a more complex situation.

Current trends indicate that the whiskey market, particularly bourbon, is not collapsing but rather adjusting due to oversupply and aggressive premiumization strategies. The SipSource database, maintained by the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers Association (WSWA), offers some clarity on this situation. This database compiles actual sales data from wholesalers to retailers, providing a real-time view of whiskey sales across the U.S.

For the year ending July 2025, whiskey sales saw declines of 4.9% in volume and 5.1% in revenue. Moreover, American whiskey represented a substantial 53.7% of total whiskey sales, aligning closely with the overall market drop, though it performed slightly better with declines of 4.3% in volume and 4.1% in revenue. Interestingly, premium American whiskeys maintained a marginal edge over their less expensive counterparts.

Focusing specifically on bourbon, which accounts for about 31.4% of whiskey sales in the U.S., the numbers show a more modest drop: only 1.5% in volume and 1.4% in revenue. This decline marks a stark contrast to the double-digit growth seen during the peak of the COVID pandemic, indicating a fleeting downturn rather than a permanent shift.

A critical observation is that bourbon production has surged significantly, with Kentucky’s barrel inventories soaring from 9.86 million in 2019 to 14.2 million by 2024. This oversupply issue, paired with a slowdown in demand growth, has created pressure on the market. During the same period, bourbon’s demand increased by 16% in volume and 30% in revenue, showcasing the initial momentum that has since been tempered.

Other whiskey categories reveal steeper declines, signaling broader trends in consumer preferences and market saturation. For instance, Tennessee whiskey fell by 9% in volume and 9.2% in revenue, while flavored and blended whiskeys also suffered notable drops. A shift in consumer demographics may explain these declines, especially among younger buyers drawn to more novel products, which have become less popular in recent months.

Contrary to these declines, American single malt whiskey emerged as a rare growth area, highlighting an evolution in whiskey preferences. Overall, while Irish whiskey and various blends have faced challenges, the overarching narrative is one of cyclical adjustment rather than outright failure.

The conclusion here is clear: the whiskey industry is not facing a bust but rather undergoing a necessary reset, working through excess stock while consumers refine their taste and spending habits. Innovation and brand loyalty in bourbon and American single malts are expected to drive recovery and potentially pave the way for renewed growth in the future.

Beauty enthusiasts have been thrilled with Revlon’s latest transformation of their iconic Rum Raisin lipstick into a tinted lip balm. The Revlon Super Lustrous Glass Shine Balm in Rum Raisin has captivated customers and amassed over 230 million views on TikTok since its launch.

This new product serves as a hybrid between a balm, gloss, and lipstick, offering a shiny finish reminiscent of a gloss while providing the smooth application of a chapstick. The warm mauvy hue of Rum Raisin has been praised as perfect for colder months. One satisfied customer highlighted that it leaves the lips feeling extremely moisturized and is a go-to product at their desk.

The upgraded formula now includes hyaluronic acid, aloe, and a touch of rose quartz, which enhances hydration while ensuring a glossy look. Customers appreciate the rich color and smooth texture, reflecting a high-end quality at an affordable price of around $10.

Revlon’s revamped balm has also reintroduced five new shades and brought back five beloved ones. Among them, Rum Raisin stands out as a favorite for its seasonal appeal. Users have commended it as a great value compared to luxury brands, solidifying its place in their beauty routines.

Whether a longtime fan of Rum Raisin or a newcomer looking to try the trend, the Revlon Super Lustrous Glass Shine Balm is a delightful option for anyone aiming to achieve a glamorous look without breaking the bank.

After a 12-year hiatus, the SVEDKA Vodka robot is making a comeback to encourage bar-goers to put down their phones and engage with those around them. Originally introduced in 2005 and powered down in 2013, the redesigned SVEDKA robot aims to enhance social interactions and promote a more present drinking experience.

The campaign, developed by Sazerac’s in-house creative team in collaboration with Silverside AI, is driven by a survey revealing troubling phone usage trends among different generations. Notably, 79% of Gen Z admit to using their phones to “fill space,” and a staggering 84% engage in fake-texting to avoid conversations. Millennials are also heavily impacted, with 74% using their phones during in-person interactions, while Gen X follows suit, showing similar behaviors albeit at slightly lower rates.

The SVEDKA robot encourages greater presence by offering to pay for bar tabs. To participate, individuals must submit candid photos of themselves and friends—committing to socially engage without their devices for at least half an hour. This initiative reflects a growing concern over excessive screen time and its negative impacts on mental health, sleep, and productivity, especially highlighted in the 2024 BePresent Digital Wellness Report.

The campaign not only seeks to revitalize the SVEDKA brand but also targets a new audience. It features digital ads titled "Don’t Drink and Hard Drive" and "Thirst Trap of the Future," reaching viewers through platforms like YouTube and Meta. The underlying message evokes irony, as digital media is utilized to advocate for a break from digital distractions.

The updated SVEDKA robot, alongside a newly introduced male counterpart, aims to honor the legacy of its predecessor while updating its design for modern appeal. This initiative serves as a cultural reminder of the importance of face-to-face connections, encouraging everyone to look up and engage with their surroundings.

With the arrival of fall, it’s officially baking season, and who better to turn to for inspiration than Ina Garten, the beloved Barefoot Contessa. Known for her comforting and delectable fall recipes, Garten has a special knack for transforming autumn ingredients, particularly pumpkin, into culinary delights.

To embark on a pumpkin-filled journey, stock up on Libby’s Pure Pumpkin, the brand Garten recommends. Get ready for an impressive lineup of recipes, including:

• Ultimate Pumpkin Pie with Rum Whipped Cream: Featuring a filling infused with spices, orange zest, and rum, this pie is topped with a whipped cream made from mascarpone, rum, and vanilla. Discover this recipe on Barefoot Contessa.

• Pumpkin Roulade with Ginger Buttercream: This eye-catching dessert combines a light cake roll with a delicious mascarpone and crystallized ginger filling, making it a showstopper at any gathering. Get the details at Barefoot Contessa.

• Pumpkin Flan with Maple Caramel Sauce: The life-changing maple caramel sauce crowns a rich flan made with pumpkin puree and sweetened condensed milk. Find the recipe here: Barefoot Contessa.

• Pumpkin Banana Mousse Tart: Combining banana and pumpkin sounds unique, but this delightful tart is a favorite among fans. See why it receives rave reviews on Food Network.

• Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes: Perfect for celebrations, these cupcakes topped with maple mascarpone frosting and crunchy Heath bars are sure to impress. Check it out on Barefoot Contessa.

• Pumpkin Mousse Parfaits: These visually appealing parfaits offer a fun twist to the dessert table, layering delicious pumpkin mousse for an inviting presentation. Get the recipe from Barefoot Contessa.

Dive into the season with these delightful pumpkin recipes and make the most of fall’s bounty!

NEWBURYPORT — An 18th century earthenware rum jug has been loaned to the Museum of Old Newbury from the Arnold Expedition Historical Society in central Maine. This unique artifact signifies Newburyport’s only connection to the well-known expedition led by Benedict Arnold, who is often remembered as both a hero and a traitor.

The rum jug, which dates back to the 1700s, was not originally in pristine condition; it was discovered in multiple pieces before being painstakingly restored in 1974. On Wednesday, Bethany Groff Dorau, the director of the Museum of Old Newbury, personally collected the jug and brought it to the museum’s Cushing House, located on High Street, for a thorough examination.

This jug is not just a historical item; it embodies a narrative that intertwines with the local history of Newburyport and the broader tale of the American Revolution—a period marked by significant events and figures, including Arnold himself.

For further reading on similar topics, check out:

• Museum of Old Newbury
• Benedict Arnold