Liquor-articles 1851

What connection does a rum from a remote French island in the Indian Ocean have with the legendary tiki cocktail, the Mai Tai? Surprisingly, a lot.

The quintessential Mai Tai, particularly celebrated for its association with Trader Vic’s, represents an evolution that adapts to the unavailability of ingredients over time. The original Mai Tai was concocted in 1944 by Victor Bergeron, known as Trader Vic, for some Tahitian friends. Today, many enthusiasts crave the authentic taste of that original creation, famously crafted with the now highly coveted J. Wray & Nephew 17 Year Old Jamaican rum. However, acquiring this rum is akin to finding gold, often exceeding $1,000 on the secondary market.

Following the formula, Trader Vic’s Mai Tai evolved as supplies of the original rum dwindled. Bergeron replaced it first with a 15-year rum and later with a blend featuring various Jamaican rums, adapting to ensure quality and taste.

Additionally, Vic sought to maintain the unique flavors reminiscent of the original Mai Tai. In a 1970 treatise, he mentioned that while his blends were excellent, they didn’t quite match the distinct taste of the original 17-year rum. He introduced Martinique rum, known as rhum, into the mix—though at the time it was made from molasses, not the cane juice version favored today.

In recent times, sourcing ingredients to replicate the original Mai Tai has become easier, thanks to producers like Holmes Cay, which has released a Réunion Island Rum Traditionnel. This rum, aged for three years in ex-cognac casks, mirrors flavors that evoke the classic Mai Tai.

To create a modern interpretation of the Trader Vic’s Mai Tai, one might blend the Réunion rum with Appleton Estate rums to replicate the original’s complexity. The full recipe involves various components, including fresh lime juice, curaçao, orgeat syrup, and rock candy syrup, all blended to create that signature flavor combination.

The technique is straightforward: shake all ingredients with ice, then serve over crushed ice, garnished with mint and the spent lime shell—a nod to the classic preparation.

While any Mai Tai today may diverge from the exact recipe crafted in 1944, each iteration remains a delicious homage to the original tiki cocktail, entwined with the rich history of rum and the artistry of mixology.

Authorities in the United States have issued a warning regarding the Celsius energy drink after some cans were mistakenly filled with vodka. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (USFDA) has particularly highlighted the Astro Vibe Blue Razz edition of the drink, urging consumers to check for the affected cans.

This unusual mix-up occurred when a packaging supplier shipped empty Celsius cans to the vodka seltzer brand High Noon, which then filled the cans with alcohol. As a result, High Noon is conducting a recall of its Beach Variety packs. Fortunately, there have been no reports of illnesses or adverse effects related to these products.

The recall specifically affects two production lots, details of which have been shared on the USFDA’s website. The contaminated products were shipped to retailers in regions including Florida, New York, Ohio, South Carolina, Virginia, and Wisconsin, between July 21 and July 23.

The recalled High Noon packs can be identified with the retail code UPC 085000040065 and the following lot codes:

• L CCC 17JL25 14:00 to L CCC 17JL25 23:59
• L CCC 18JL25 00:00 to L CCC 18JL25 03:00

For the Celsius cans, the retail code is UPC 8 89392 00134 1, with lot codes:

• L CCB 02JL25 2:55 to L CCB 02JL25 3:11

The USFDA advises consumers to dispose of the Celsius Astro Vibe energy drink cans with these lot codes and not to consume the contents. It has reassured consumers that High Noon Beach Variety packs with different lot codes are safe to drink.

For further details, refer to the USFDA’s announcement on the recall here.

Recently, a mix-up caused some vodka seltzers to be mistakenly packaged as energy drinks, creating a stir in the beverage industry. The confusion arose between High Noon, a popular vodka seltzer brand, and Celsius, known for its energy drinks. This incident has led to significant concerns regarding product labeling and consumer safety.

The situation came to light when a number of consumers reported that they had purchased what they believed were energy drinks, only to find that the cans contained vodka instead. This incident sparked a debate over how such a mix-up could happen, especially given the rigorous safety standards that manufacturers are expected to adhere to.

As the story unfolds, experts are weighing in on the implications of this mix-up, discussing how it highlights the importance of clear labeling in the food and beverage industry. They stress that consumers need to be able to trust that the products they purchase match the descriptions on the packaging.

In light of this event, both brands and regulatory bodies are being urged to review their processes to prevent similar incidents in the future. Observers hope that this will lead to stronger regulations surrounding product packaging and consumer safety, ensuring that all beverages are clearly labeled to prevent confusion.

High Noon is issuing a recall for certain 12-packs of its vodka seltzers due to a labeling error that has caused some cans to be misidentified as Celsius energy drinks. This mix-up stems from issues with their shared packaging supplier.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported that the affected products were distributed in Florida, New York, Ohio, South Carolina, Virginia, and Wisconsin from July 21 to July 23. In these packs, some cans were filled with High Noon vodka seltzer, but were labeled as CELSIUS® ASTRO VIBE™ Energy Drink in Sparkling Blue Razz flavor.

This situation has the potential to confuse consumers who might expect to be consuming a non-alcoholic energy drink, only to discover they have inadvertently purchased a spiked beverage. High Noon hard seltzers contain an alcohol content of 4.5% ABV.

The issue arose because Celsius and High Noon, while manufactured by different companies, use a shared third-party packaging supplier. In a statement, Celsius explained that the supplier mistakenly sent empty cans of the energy drink to High Noon’s production facility, which filled them with vodka seltzer and packaged them for distribution.

No illnesses or adverse reactions have yet been reported, and both companies are cooperating with the FDA on a response to ensure consumer safety. Celsius is urging customers to check lot numbers and can lid colors on their drinks, even if they did not purchase them as part of a variety pack.

Consumers who accidentally purchase the affected products are advised not to consume them and to reach out to High Noon Consumer Relations for guidance on refunds and next steps.

For more information on the recall, visit the FDA’s announcement here.

July 30, 2025 (Los Angeles, CA) — Cannella Media DTC has launched Wine, Watches & Whiskey, a new ad-supported streaming channel available on STIRR. This channel offers viewers a curated exploration of wine, spirits, and luxury watches, allowing audiences to enjoy high-quality lifestyle content without a subscription.

Steve Schachter, SVP of Distribution & Business Development at Cannella Media DTC, stated, “Wine, Watches & Whiskey creates a destination for viewers who appreciate craftsmanship, heritage, and elevated experiences. Partnering with STIRR helps us deliver this vision to a larger audience while ensuring a premium, brand-friendly environment.”

The content on Wine, Watches & Whiskey is designed to cater to the interests of a passionate audience. It features documentaries, tasting sessions, and behind-the-scenes access to vineyards and distilleries, all focused on the artistry and skill involved in creating exceptional products. This aligns perfectly with STIRR’s strategy to provide programming that reflects viewers’ interests.

“At STIRR, we recognize that today’s audiences desire more than simple entertainment; they seek engaging content that resonates with their passions,” Schachter added. The STIRR platform is dedicated to fostering engaged communities and offers viewers unique ways to connect with content creators and fellow enthusiasts.

Cannella Media DTC has a proven track record of launching niche channels. In 2024, it introduced RVTV on STIRR, which catered to outdoor recreation enthusiasts. The success of RVTV highlighted the demand for carefully curated content in specific categories. Wine, Watches & Whiskey builds on this momentum by focusing on the thriving markets for premium wine, craft spirits, and luxury watches.

The channel provides brands in these sectors with an innovative platform for storytelling and long-form content that goes beyond conventional media constraints. It offers marketers an opportunity to reach a dedicated, high-intent audience without the compliance challenges typically found in traditional television.

About STIRR
STIRR is a free streaming service that offers a variety of live, on-demand, and linear channels across connected devices. It aims to foster engaged communities and redefines streaming by inviting audiences to participate in shaping their viewing experiences.

About Cannella Media DTC
Cannella Media DTC is a performance-driven media agency experienced in scaling direct-to-consumer brands across television, streaming, digital, and audio platforms. The company operates several content channels, including Wine, Watches & Whiskey and RVTV, and manages significant performance media investments.

Explore more about STIRR: www.stirr.com
Learn about Cannella Media DTC: Cannella Media DTC

The New Orleans Spirits Competition, part of the annual Tales of the Cocktail event, made headlines this year with its unique judging format, culminating in a compelling outcome for the whiskey community. Balcones Lineage, an American Single Malt distilled in Waco, Texas, was awarded the title of "Best Whiskey of the Year" for 2025. This recognition emphasizes the rising significance of the American Single Malt category, especially amidst the backdrop of record U.S. spirits exports and potential tariff-free trade with the European Union.

The New Orleans Spirits Competition stands out due to its public judging process, where industry professionals taste alongside an engaged audience. This model fosters a more inclusive atmosphere for discussions surrounding the spirits being evaluated. Although the audience does not cast votes, their participation adds a layer of transparency to the competition.

In total, the competition offers hundreds of awards across various categories, culminating in 11 standout "Spirits of the Year." Among these, Balcones Lineage emerged victorious, impressing judges with its complex flavor profile. This whiskey masterfully blends Scotch and American whiskey-making traditions, produced from both Scottish and Texas-grown barley. Maturing in both refill and brand-new oak barrels, Lineage boasts a sweeter, fruitier aroma highlighted by notes of raspberry, banana, and apricot. Sippers can expect a balanced journey from the initial sip—characterized by cedar and sarsaparilla—to a warm finish with hints of cinnamon.

Balcones has built a reputation for its approachable yet high-proof offerings, and Lineage successfully strikes a balance that will appeal to both novice whiskey drinkers and seasoned aficionados. Priced at a reasonable $40 per bottle, it presents a compelling option for those eager to explore the burgeoning category of American Single Malt.

The timing of the award is particularly significant as American spirits are witnessing unprecedented export growth. Recent reports indicate that U.S. spirits exports have reached $2.4 billion, and there is optimism surrounding a new trade agreement with the EU that could eliminate tariffs on these products. This situation could pave the way for more European consumers to experience American Single Malt whiskeys, with Balcones Lineage positioned as a prime introduction to the style.

For more information on Balcones Lineage, visit Balcones Distilling.

KBRA has improved the outlook on U.S. Virgin Islands rum tax bonds from negative to stable, following a recent permanent raise in the rum cover over rate announced by the federal government. This adjustment, which increases the cover to $13.25 per proof gallon from $10.50, aims to alleviate credit pressures that stemmed from several years of declining pledged Matching Fund receipts.

The rating agency noted that the increased rate should help stabilize debt service coverage after the fiscal 2025 receipts fell below the key threshold of 2.0 times, landing at 1.83 times maximum annual debt service for the first time. KBRA expects the new cover rate will lead to MADS coverage returning to around 2.0 times shortly.

The bonds, originally issued by the Matching Fund Special Purpose Securitization Corp., have a par value of $955 million and were established to act as a bankruptcy-remote entity in 2022. The outlook for these bonds can also be influenced by trends in alcohol consumption, particularly among rum products, as there was a 9.1% drop in Virgin Islands rum sales in the U.S. during the last fiscal year compared to the previous year.

In April, KBRA had previously downgraded the outlook for these bonds due to declining coverage metrics. However, the recent increase in the excise tax on rum is seen as a positive step in providing enhanced financial support for bondholders, who enjoy a first lien on the rum tax revenues generated from sales in the United States.

A 28-year-old passenger, Mohammed Ridwan Ali, was arrested after causing a disturbance on a flight from Bangladesh to Manchester Airport. On March 6, Ali consumed half a bottle of Captain Morgan’s rum and started shouting at fellow passengers, escalating an argument with his sister into a larger altercation.

As he became increasingly disruptive, staggering around the plane, the crew restrained him in his seat until law enforcement could intervene. Upon arriving at Manchester Airport, Greater Manchester Police officers noted that Ali appeared agitated, smelled of alcohol, and exhibited slurred speech and glazed eyes.

During the flight, crew members reported that Ali was drinking and had a confrontation with his sister, leading to his volatile behavior. Following the incident, his baggage was searched, revealing a 1.5-litre bottle of rum that was half-empty. Although the crew did not initially provide statements, they communicated their desire for Ali to be removed from the aircraft.

Ali’s defense attorney stated that he felt "embarrassed and ashamed" of his actions. Ali had previously endured a traumatic experience, having been stabbed in July of the prior year, leading to a coma and extensive rehabilitation. He had since relied on alcohol as a coping mechanism, with the incident acting as a wake-up call for him.

In court, Recorder David Wood emphasized the seriousness of being drunk on an aircraft, given the potential risks posed by uncontrollable passengers. Consequently, Ali received a 12-week prison sentence, which was suspended for one year. He was also mandated to complete ten rehabilitation activities, participate in an alcohol treatment program, and pay a £250 fine. He previously admitted guilt for flying while intoxicated.

Costco’s Kirkland Signature Spiced Rum has become a popular choice for home bartenders, often paired with refreshing mixers like Coke or ginger ale. This spiced rum is not just any store brand; it’s bottled by Sazerac in Louisville, Kentucky, a detail that was recently made clear on its label. Previously, there was much speculation about its production origins, with fans guessing that renowned brands like Cruzan or Captain Morgan might be behind it.

The confusion stemmed from the fact that the rum was known to originate from St. Croix and tasted similar to recognizable brands. However, informed social media users, following changes in taste and design noted over the past year, eventually revealed Sazerac as the true producer. The transition in flavor and appearance suggests Costco may have switched suppliers recently.

For those looking to enjoy Kirkland’s spiced rum, the recommended classic is a rum and Coke, but there are plenty of ways to enjoy it. Mixing the rum with ginger ale creates a spicy-sweet refreshment, and root beer or cream soda offers a creamy, mellow alternative. Adding pineapple juice introduces a tropical twist, while incorporating spiced rum into cocktails like espresso martinis or daiquiris opens the door to creative mixology.

With the clear source of Costco’s spiced rum now known, many are excited to explore its versatility both in simple drinks and more elaborate cocktail recipes.

Today marks the 200th birthday of William Larue Weller, and in celebration, Buffalo Trace has introduced two new expressions to its Weller whiskey lineup. The Weller collection is highly sought after among bourbon enthusiasts, known for its exceptional quality.

The longstanding range includes favorites like Weller Special Reserve, Weller Antique, and Weller 12, but has expanded to feature newer releases such as Weller C.Y.P.B. (2018), Weller Full Proof (2019), and Weller Single Barrel (2020), among others. The latest additions are Weller Millennium Batch #2 and Weller 18.

Weller Millennium Batch #2 is a blend that includes components distilled in 2001, 2003, and 2006. This batch is distinctive, maintaining the blend of wheated bourbon and wheat whiskey introduced in the first batch. The updated label features a gold-plated info card, setting it apart visually from its predecessor.

Weller 18 is notable as the oldest age-stated product in the Weller family and features a full wheat whiskey profile. It will be available in select international airports, making it the first travel-exclusive offering from Buffalo Trace.

I had the privilege of tasting both new expressions recently and am excited to share reviews of these alongside the entire Weller lineup.

Weller Special Reserve

ABV: 45%
Average Price: $32

Nose: Sweet honeysuckle and corn notes.
Palate: Floral flavors dominate, with clover honey and light vanilla.
Finish: Flavors linger, providing a mellow exit.
Bottom Line: While not my favorite, it offers a glimpse of the brand’s potential with better aging and proof.

Daniel Weller

ABV: 47%
Average Price: $3,000

Nose: Grain-forward with strawberries and herbal notes.
Palate: Sweet with lively fruit flavors.
Finish: Moderately dry but inviting for additional sips.
Bottom Line: A unique bourbon, though overshadowed by others in the lineup.

Weller 18

ABV: 45%
Average Price: $500

Nose: Hazelnuts and cherry cordials.
Palate: Dates, clove, and smooth texture.
Finish: Medium-length with vanilla and wheat toast notes.
Bottom Line: Distinct ebb and flow of flavors, appealing for bourbon fans.

Weller Single Barrel

ABV: 48.5%
Average Price: $700

Nose: Red apples with savory notes.
Palate: Juicy fruit balanced by oak notes.
Finish: Sweet caramel and black pepper spice.
Bottom Line: A solid, if not groundbreaking, single-barrel bourbon.

Weller Full Proof

ABV: 57%
Average Price: $250

Nose: Cherry, caramel, and spicy notes.
Palate: A robust blend of diverse flavors; a bold experience.
Finish: Lengthy yet somewhat drying.
Bottom Line: Full of character but might challenge some palates.

Weller 12-Year

ABV: 45%
Average Price: $280

Nose: Brown sugar and black tea.
Palate: Rich and flavorful with oak undertones.
Finish: Closing with an oak presence; complex yet pleasant.
Bottom Line: Rich offering that showcases maturity, but has potential for more.

Weller C.Y.P.B.

ABV: 47.5%
Average Price: $300

Nose: White chocolate and cherries.
Palate: Sweet and refined flavors; well-crafted.
Finish: Satisfying, though slightly shorter than desired.
Bottom Line: A strong representation of Weller’s quality; highly enjoyable.

Weller Antique 107-Proof

ABV: 53.5%
Average Price: $59

Nose: Candied apple and honey.
Palate: Balances sweet and tart flavors.
Finish: Rich stone fruit notes with a pleasant medium length.
Bottom Line: A versatile and often underrated choice; excels in blind tastings.

Weller Millennium Batch #1 (2024)

ABV: 49.5%
Average Price: $7,500

Nose: Fruit-forward with wheat notes.
Palate: Rich flavors of honey and cherries; luxurious mouthfeel.
Finish: Prolonged and satisfying; a true treat.
Bottom Line: A rare gem that exemplifies the luxurious side of bourbon.

Weller Millennium Batch #2 (2025)

ABV: 49.5%
Average Price: $7,500

Nose: Rich and inviting fruity aromas.
Palate: Sweet with layers of flavor; well-balanced.
Finish: Exciting and dynamic with lingering spice.
Bottom Line: An upgrade over its predecessor; a standout experience.

William Larue Weller Bourbon (2025)

ABV: 62.9%
Average Price: $1,800

Nose: Complex aromas of caramel and cherries.
Palate: Rich and well-developed flavors; deeply satisfying.
Finish: Lengthy with a mix of sweet and spice.
Bottom Line: A definitive showcase of bourbon excellence; continues to impress.

As whiskey enthusiasts celebrate Weller’s legacy, these new releases further enhance the rich tradition of quality bourbon, making them remarkable additions to any collection.