Liquor-articles 2020

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Vodka is among the most widely consumed spirits globally, yet its appreciation seems muted, particularly in the U.S. In the quest to identify the best vodkas, individuals often struggle to find resources or specialty bars dedicated solely to this spirit. Historically, the legal definition of vodka created a view of it lacking distinctive character, aroma, taste, or color. However, a recent tasting of 15 different vodkas revealed a surprising variety of options, including a briny martini-friendly vodka, a rich sweet option, and an all-purpose creamy vodka that complements any home bar.

The Best Vodkas

Kirkland Signature American Vodka

Kirkland Signature American Vodka emerged as the top pick. Priced at around $15 from Total Wine & More, testers found it to be the cleanest, creamiest, and most versatile vodka. With soft citrus and rose aromas, it’s enjoyable on its own or in various cocktails. The only downside is its size, as it comes in a large 1.75-liter bottle.

• Base Ingredient: Corn
• Best For: All cocktails
• Made In: USA

Smirnoff No. 21 Vodka

For those unable to acquire Kirkland vodka, Smirnoff No. 21 Vodka is a solid alternative at approximately $11. Historically significant, Smirnoff became the first vodka distillery in the U.S. and ultimately the world’s best-selling vodka. Its crisp and clean profile makes it suitable for various cocktails, from Bloody Marys to martinis.

• Base Ingredient: Grain
• Best For: Cocktails requiring a versatile vodka
• Made In: USA

Pinnacle Vodka

For a unique option, Pinnacle Vodka is noted for its savory and salty profile, priced around $15. Its briny flavor makes it particularly suitable for savory cocktails, like martinis and Bloody Marys.

• Base Ingredient: Grain
• Best For: Savory cocktails
• Made In: France (bottled in the USA)

Stolichnaya Vodka

At $21, Stolichnaya Vodka is favored for those who prefer a mild taste that blends well in cocktails. With light notes of aloe and lime, this vodka is ideal for mixed drinks where one prefers to mask the alcohol flavor.

• Base Ingredient: Grain
• Best For: Drinks where one prefers a light presence of alcohol
• Made In: Latvia

Tito’s Handmade Vodka

Tito’s Handmade Vodka stands out for its richer, sweeter profile, available at approximately $20. Its notes of butterscotch and honey allow it to shine in citrusy or savory cocktails.

• Base Ingredient: Corn
• Best For: Citrus or savory cocktails
• Made In: USA

The Competition

Vodkas such as Svedka and Hangar 1 were considered but didn’t match the flavor quality of the selected picks. Brands like Absolut and Grey Goose were dismissed due to harsh alcohol burn and thinning characteristics when diluted.

Why You Should Trust Us

The guide was informed by extensive research and interviews with food scientists and industry experts. The testing involved multiple rounds of tastings across diverse cocktail recipes to ensure a well-rounded understanding of each vodka’s flavor profile and versatility.

Conclusion

Vodka may often be overlooked compared to spirits like whiskey or gin, but the right vodka can elevate any cocktail experience.Preference can vary widely based on personal taste, but the options outlined here provide a excellent basis for exploring the world of vodka and finding what suits your palate best.

Getting ready for the 2026 music festival season, Fort Worth has just announced the lineup for this year’s Syndicate Smokedown & Music Festival. Scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026, at the historic Fort Worth Stockyards, this milestone fifth anniversary promises a Texas-sized gathering.

The festival will feature big names such as Whiskey Myers and the Randy Rogers Band leading the charge, along with an exciting lineup that includes Amanda Shires, Jason Scott and the High Heat, Ellis Bullard, The Broken Spokes, and Weldon Henson. Nearly all of the acts hail from Texas, embodying the spirit of the Lone Star State.

Andy Eldridge, the Smokedown Festival Director and a Fort Worth local, emphasized the festival’s commitment to celebrating Texas talent. “For our 5th anniversary, we wanted a lineup that felt both elevated and unmistakably Texas," he stated. "This is the biggest music lineup year we’ve ever produced.”

Tickets for the festival go on sale to the public on Friday, December 12, at 10:00 a.m. CT. This year’s event not only showcases outstanding musicianship but also features a BBQ competition open to both professionals and amateur teams, offering various ticket options for all kinds of festival-goers.

All proceeds from the festival support 4-H and FFA youth programs throughout Texas, making it a worthy cause as well. Eldridge noted the importance of the festival’s impact, saying, “every single ticket purchase directly helps a Texas kid and supports this great state’s agriculture industry.”

This is set to be an unforgettable event that combines great music with a noble cause, inviting fans to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Stockyards while supporting local agriculture.

For more information and tickets, check out Syndicate Smokedown.

The song "Whiskey Lullaby," a duet by Brad Paisley and Alison Krauss, stands as one of the most poignant pieces in country music history. Released in 2004, it peaked at #3 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and remains Paisley’s most-streamed track on Spotify, earning double platinum status from the RIAA.

Penned by country legend "Whisperin’" Bill Anderson and Jon Randall during a tumultuous period in Randall’s life, the writing process was born from deep personal experiences. After his divorce from fellow country singer Lorrie Morgan and losing his record contract, Randall was in a dark place. Their collaboration started when Anderson noticed Randall’s downtrodden demeanor, leading to a conversation where Randall expressed his despair.

Initially, Anderson had envisioned a song called "Midnight Cigarette," but Randall brought forth a powerful line that changed the course of their writing session. The line reflected his struggle, stemming from a two-week period of self-destructive behavior following his heartbreak. Inspired by Randall’s honesty, they crafted the song that became "Whiskey Lullaby."

Anderson introduced the theme of a slow-burning relationship, encapsulated in the iconic opening lines of the song. Their collaboration flourished as they created a narrative of loss, heartache, and despair, highlighted by haunting lyrics depicting a man’s tragic downfall due to unrequited love.

Interestingly, before it found its ultimate home with Paisley and Krauss, the song was initially placed on hold by the Dixie Chicks (now known as The Chicks). Their plans to record it were thwarted by career turmoil following controversial comments from lead singer Natalie Maines. Eventually, Brad Paisley expressed interest in turning it into a duet and suggested Alison Krauss as a collaborator, which Anderson embraced wholeheartedly.

Other artists like Dierks Bentley were also offered the song but declined due to its somber nature. He later remarked that while he appreciated the song’s beauty, he felt it was too depressing for his repertoire. Nevertheless, the collaboration between Paisley and Krauss marked the perfect blend for this timeless and heartbreaking ballad, securing its place in country music history.

The Asia Spirits Ratings (ASR) has awarded U’Luvka Vodka the title of best vodka, granting it an impressive score of 95 out of 100. This Polish vodka, crafted from a unique blend of rye, wheat, and barley, is celebrated for its creamy, crisp taste with subtle sweetness and complex flavor notes. Despite its premium price point of $200 and limited availability in the U.S., the vodka’s exceptional quality and distinctive bottle design won over the judges, who evaluate spirits based on taste, value, quality, and presentation.

The ASR aims to differentiate itself among spirit competitions by involving a diverse panel of experts from various sectors—retailers, distributors, importers, and industry writers. This comprehensive approach ensures that the judges consider broader aspects that matter most to buyers in a competitive market like Asia.

U’Luvka Vodka is produced at the historic Zielona Góra Distillery near Warsaw, one of the oldest vodka producers in Poland. Its smooth 80-proof character results from the careful distillation of high-quality grains. The vodka opens with aromatic hints of vanilla and sage, developing a nuttiness and anise flavor upon tasting. The creators credit their centuries-old recipe, crafted for Polish royalty, for the vodka’s unique complexity.

Although it has been available in the U.S. for over ten years, U’Luvka remains relatively unknown among American consumers partly due to its high price and limited distribution. The distinctive bottle, which stands over a foot tall and lacks traditional labeling, is designed to be a striking centerpiece. While the pricing may challenge acceptance in markets that often favor less expensive options, the ASR’s recognition could signal a shift in perceptions about premium sipping vodkas.

Every year, rum enthusiasts converge in the Caribbean for the prestigious Caribbean Rum Awards, where the best rums are recognized. In 2025, the world was once again captivated by a bottle from Martinique, specifically Rhum Depaz’s Cuvée Prestige XO, which claimed the title of the World’s Best Rum for the second consecutive year.

The awards feature a rigorous blind tasting process, judged by a diverse panel from across the globe, amplifying the competition’s intensity. This year’s top winner, Cuvée Prestige XO, was praised for its refined nature and rich aromatic profile, highlighting the volcanic soils that characterize Martinique and the distillery’s careful aging processes.

Rhum Depaz distillery dates back to 1651, initially producing tobacco, then shifting to sugar cane as the local rum trade flourished. The distillery, reinvented after a catastrophic earthquake in the early 1900s, now produces a variety of rums reflective of the island’s fertile land.

In the 2025 competition, last year’s champion, Trois Rivières’ Triple Millésime (which features vintaged rums aged in French oak), came in a close second, further indicating the increasing quality and variety of rum offerings.

Alexander Britell, the editor of Caribbean Journal, noted the unprecedented competitiveness of this year’s selection, underscoring the expanding diversity in the rum industry.

Other noteworthy mentions from the awards included Dos Maderas Luxus, recognized as a premier blend of rums from Barbados and Guyana, while Rhum A1710 La Perle earned accolades as the best rhum blanc.

The event took place at the Rosewood Le Guanahani in St. Barths, bringing together esteemed judges like José Antonio Hernandez-Solaun of the International Wine and Food Association, Chef Guy Ferdinand, and rum experts from various backgrounds.

The Caribbean Rum Awards continue to celebrate and elevate the craft of rum, reflecting its growing significance and unique character within the global spirits landscape.

Wray & Nephew Limited has announced that they have fully resolved the rum shortages that plagued the previous year, confirming an ample supply for the upcoming holiday season. The senior commercial director, Cecil Smith Jr., emphasized that the minimal disruptions caused by Hurricane Melissa would not affect domestic supply in any significant way.

Smith Jr. explained that the rum shortages were a result of an unexpected spike in consumption following the COVID-19 pandemic. Since July 2025, inventories have been robust nationwide. He characterized the prior shortages as a "good problem" due to the sudden increase in demand, and he strongly denied claims that the company diverted stocks of white rum to support the aging of its premium Appleton Estate line.

The company holds a commanding 85% share of Jamaica’s overproof rum market and claims that their flagship Wray & Nephew White Overproof Rum sells more cases globally than any other rum. Smith highlighted the importance of community bars in Jamaica, noting that approximately 70% of alcohol consumption occurs in these venues, which play a crucial role in the company’s business model.

While the hurricane caused logistical challenges, affecting exports and raw material imports for future production, domestic supplies were maintained, with all necessary production for 2025 completed prior to the storm. Smith noted the key focus for Wray & Nephew continues to be maintaining pricing stability to prevent price gouging, and he expressed optimism for the recovery of both the community bars and the wider economy in the wake of the hurricane.

For 2026, the outlook has been somewhat reduced, with expectations that consumers in affected areas will prioritize essential rebuilding efforts. However, Wray & Nephew is prepared to respond flexibly to any rapid resurgence in demand. The strategy involves increasing inventory buffers to ensure they can meet both current and future needs efficiently.

Overall, the company’s extensive portfolio includes various local brands and products, reinforcing its market dominance while contributing to the island’s cultural fabric during a time of economic recovery.

Cleveland’s East Bank Flats, known for its bustling nightlife, faces a significant shift as two popular bars, Inferno and Rum Runners, are closing immediately due to "economic pressures." Both establishments are part of the Sly Restaurant Group (SRG), which stated that the decision was made after a careful assessment of operations in light of current challenges in the hospitality industry.

Despite being a vibrant area typically filled with patrons, the Flats exhibited a quieter scene shortly after the announcement. Many bars were closed, and patrons were mostly unaware of the closure until prompted. One visitor expressed disappointment, highlighting her connection to the area and concern for its economic health.

Laurie Torres, the owner of Mallorca and president of Cleveland Independents, commented on the overall struggle of downtown dining and nightlife, noting that the atmosphere has changed greatly, with fewer shoppers and diners frequenting the area. She reflected on the decline in business activity since the once-bustling downtown has now become less attractive for casual visits.

Torres emphasized that the situation is not isolated to Cleveland; surrounding urban centers like Columbus and Cincinnati are facing similar challenges. She pointed out the rising costs of goods and services, which are hampering restaurant operations. The economic climate is leading to a substantial number of closures across Ohio, with reports indicating over 500 restaurants are expected to close this year.

The closures aren’t limited to just bars and restaurants. The Ohio Craft Brewers Association has reported more breweries are ceasing operations than starting up in 2025. Torres voiced a need for stronger urban centers, suggesting that initiatives, such as major businesses relocating to downtown Cleveland, could help revitalize the area and attract visitors again.

As businesses assess their future amidst the economic strain, there are calls for community support to preserve and promote local independent establishments that are integral to Cleveland’s culture and economy.

PROVIDENCE — The cocktail scene in Providence is currently witnessing a transformative era, largely fueled by a fresh wave of bartenders who approach mixology with the same artistry chefs apply to their dishes. Justin Brody is one such bartender. His journey has taken him from the busy bar culture of Portland, Oregon, to his current position at Juniper in Providence, where he’s determined to create a new bar concept that emphasizes tropical flavors, sustainability, and an extensive rum collection.

After completing his studies at Johnson & Wales University, Brody, alongside his fiancée, initially moved to Seattle in 2016. They later settled in Portland, where Brody became deeply immersed in the local cocktail scene. However, breaking into this competitive environment proved challenging. “[Pre-COVID] it was almost impossible… I finally got a job at Deadshot after being really persistent,” he recalls. His tenacity paid off when he reached out to renowned bartender Jim Meehan, who hired him for the opening of Takibi, marking the beginning of his serious bartending career.

After returning to the East Coast due to a family emergency, he spent two years at The Port of Call in Mystic, Connecticut. Here, he rose to the position of head bartender and fostered enduring relationships with his colleagues. However, he eventually yearned to open his own establishment, prompting his move to Providence.

Brody recently achieved recognition by winning a cocktail competition at the inaugural Mystic Cocktail Classic. His winning cocktail, the “Bajan Daydream,” draws inspiration from Barbados’ national dish, incorporating flavors reminiscent of cornmeal and okra. The cocktail is a unique twist on a daiquiri, using aged rum and lemon juice instead of the traditional lime.

An emphasis on sustainability forms the foundation of Brody’s future bar project, where he plans to address kitchen and bar waste creatively. His ambition is to open a venue by 2026, featuring Rhode Island’s largest rum selection and blending various personal interests such as tropical plants, mid-century décor, and vintage music into the bar’s atmosphere.

Despite losing several influential establishments recently, Brody believes Providence is entering an exciting phase with new culinary talent and innovative concepts emerging. He is particularly enthusiastic about the recognition garnered by local bars, including LOMA, and the commitment of young entrepreneurs to invigorate the city’s hospitality landscape.

Bajan Daydream Recipe

• 1 3/4 oz Real McCoy 5 year rum
• 1/2 oz John D Taylor’s Velvet Falernum liqueur
• 1/2 oz Lemon juice
• 3/4 oz Corncob and thyme syrup (recipe below)
• 3 dash tobacco bitters
• Thyme sprig for garnish

Combine all ingredients except the thyme sprig in a mixing tin with ice. Shake well for about 8 seconds. Strain into a chilled coupe glass and garnish with a thyme sprig.

Corncob and Thyme Syrup

• 1000 grams white sugar
• 1000 grams water
• 4 corn cobs
• 5 sprigs of thyme
• 5 grams salt

Combine corn cobs, thyme, salt, and water in a pot, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes. Add sugar, stir until dissolved, and strain to reserve the syrup. Refrigerate for up to two weeks.

Ten years after its release, Chris Stapleton’s "Tennessee Whiskey" continues to make waves, remaining in Apple Music’s Top 100 Songs of 2025. As we wrap up the year, Apple Music has unveiled its year-end lists, where Morgan Wallen notably leads with twelve songs in the all-genre Top 100, specifically from his hit album I’m The Problem. His older hits, such as "Chasin’ You" and "Last Night," also made the cut, showcasing his enduring appeal.

However, Stapleton’s "Tennessee Whiskey" significantly stands out by continuing to chart a decade after its release. This beloved ballad, originally a cover recorded by David Allan Coe and later by George Jones, was featured on Stapleton’s debut album Traveller in 2015. Its legendary status was solidified following Stapleton’s performance with Justin Timberlake at the 2015 CMA Awards, often hailed as a defining moment in modern country music.

Traveller has achieved remarkable accolades, including a 7x-platinum certification from the RIAA and over 500 weeks on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart. Earlier this year, it was even named Billboard’s Top Country Album of the Century, a testament to its impact and popularity.

In the latest rankings, "Tennessee Whiskey" claimed the 89th spot on Apple Music’s Top 100 list, ahead of artists like Drake and Frank Ocean. Stapleton is notably one of only six country artists to have a song featured on this prestigious chart this year.

Before his rise to fame, Stapleton was already an acclaimed songwriter, crafting hits for many top artists. In a candid interview, he reflected on the unpredictability of songwriting success, emphasizing that the true victory lies in finishing a song and that no one can predict how a song will resonate with listeners.

Ultimately, the continuing success of "Tennessee Whiskey" underscores its timeless appeal and Stapleton’s impressive artistry.

If you’re a liquor drinker, you’ve likely noticed the term "80 proof" or "40% ABV" on many bottles. This seemingly magical number raises questions: Why is it so common, and what does it represent?

Understanding Proof and ABV

"ABV" stands for "alcohol by volume," a measure of the amount of alcohol contained in a given volume of liquid. The proof measurement is simply double the ABV; for instance, a spirit with 40% ABV is considered 80 proof.

The term "proof" has historical roots, dating back to the 16th century when sailors tested the strength of rum by mixing it with gunpowder. If it ignited, the rum was deemed strong enough to be "proof" alcohol. This method set the benchmark for what was considered adequate strength, which has evolved over time.

The Economic Angle Behind 80 Proof

The prevalence of 80 proof spirits can largely be attributed to economics and legal standards. In the United States, 80 proof is the legal minimum for many types of spirits, including whiskey, vodka, gin, tequila, and rum. Bottling spirits at this proof typically reduces production costs. Lower ABV means that producers can dilute the alcohol with water while still meeting the legal thresholds, thus maximizing profits per barrel.

For instance, with whiskey, producers can fill more bottles per barrel by adding water up to the 80 proof mark. This practice is particularly beneficial for mass-producing brands that want to keep retail prices competitive.

Historical Context of the 80 Proof Standard

The exact origins of the 80 proof standard aren’t definitively recorded, but some suggest it stems from British practices where a minimum was established based on alcohol content measured by weight. Similarly, during wartime efforts to minimize alcohol consumption, regulations were put in place that inadvertently resulted in the adoption of 80 proof as a standard.

In Scotland, this minimum was influenced by governmental initiatives to tax whiskey more effectively and control its distribution during tough times. Over the years, 80 proof emerged as a convenient balance between quality and accessibility, ensuring a product that isn’t overly watered-down but still flavorsome enough for many drinkers.

Conclusion

Today, while many spirits enthusiasts may opt for higher proof drinks, 80 proof remains the industry standard. It provides a palatable experience for casual drinkers, emphasizes affordability for producers, and balances flavor retention while being financially viable. This unique combination ensures that 80 proof continues to hold its place as a staple on liquor shelves globally.

For additional information on the history of spirit proofs, you can check out VinePair and Scotch Whisky.