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M.S. Rau is hosting a special event called "Rum & Rarities: A Cocktail Journey" that will showcase locally made beverages while exploring the history of rum. Scheduled for Wednesday from 2 to 5 p.m. at their location on 622 Royal St., the event aims to highlight the significance of sugar-based rum and its impact on global trade, American innovation, and the vibrant culture of the Roaring Twenties.

Guests will be treated to a unique experience divided into three historical themes, each featuring a cocktail crafted from Wildcat Brothers Rum. This distillery, based in Lafayette, produces small-batch rum using locally sourced sugar.

The event is free to attend, but registration is required. For more information and to sign up, visit Eventbrite.

Eoin Ó Catháin, the director of the Irish Whiskey Association, shared insights on the rapid growth of Irish whiskey sales in Japan, a market he describes as one of the most dynamic and exciting in the world. He expressed his encouragement at seeing the hard work of Irish whiskey producers pay off in this unique landscape.

The conversation with Ó Catháin highlighted the significance of Japanese consumers’ appreciation for quality and craftsmanship, which has led to an increasing demand for Irish whiskey. He pointed out the cultural connections and the fascination the Japanese have with Irish heritage as pivotal factors driving this trend.

This rise is not just about sales volumes; it reflects an evolving global interest in premium spirits, where Irish whiskey is carving out a substantial niche. Ó Catháin emphasized the importance of storytelling and brand authenticity, suggesting that these elements resonate deeply with Japanese consumers.

As Irish whiskey continues to establish itself in Japan, Ó Catháin remains optimistic about the future, showcasing a promising outlook for both the producers and the broader industry. The ongoing efforts to foster these connections are set to bolster Irish whiskey’s reputation and popularity in the Japanese market.

Redbreast Irish Whiskey has proudly joined the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) as the Official Whiskey for its 50th edition. This partnership celebrates both the heritage of Irish whiskey and the art of storytelling in cinema.

As the Official Whiskey of TIFF, Redbreast will be actively involved in various exclusive events designed to showcase its unique offerings. Highlights include ‘Unhidden Gems,’ a curated collection of films aimed at highlighting overlooked cinematic masterpieces. Additionally, the Redbreast Red Carpet Suite will offer guests tastings, cocktails, and film-inspired storytelling experiences throughout the festival, providing an elegant ambiance for creators and industry leaders to connect and celebrate.

With more than a century of tradition in the production of single pot still Irish whiskey, Redbreast has become a defining example of this whiskey style. The brand is known for producing rich, full-bodied flavors with a distinctive sherry influence, and it continues to gain traction in key markets such as the US and UK.

George Skarpathiotakis, Senior Brand Director at Corby Spirit and Wine, remarked on the synergy between whiskey and film, emphasizing that both mediums share a human quality that resonates long after the initial experience. The intricate process behind both exceptional whiskey and memorable films reflects a dedication to storytelling, whether through a glass or on screen.

Redbreast’s involvement in TIFF will promote its global campaign ‘Quite the Find’, which aims to highlight the beautifully crafted character inherent in both whiskey and storytelling. This collaboration follows a successful partnership with the SXSW Film & TV Festival and iconic ambassador Andrew Scott.

The 50th Toronto International Film Festival will run from September 4th to September 14th, with additional details regarding Redbreast’s involvement and activations set to be announced soon.

Discover the finest Irish blended whiskeys of 2025, as showcased by the Beverage Testing Institute (BevTest). Their recent evaluations reveal a premier selection, including one exceptional whiskey that received a Platinum medal and eight others awarded Gold.

Top Picks for 2025

1. Jameson Bow Street 18-Year-Old Cask Strength

   • ABV: 56.5%
   • Price: $277
   • Score: 96/100 (Platinum)
   • Profile: Aged in first-fill bourbon and Sherry casks, this blend offers rich aromas of toffee, fig, and toasted oak, delivering a full-bodied taste with layers of honeycomb, dark chocolate, and baking spices.

2. Jameson 18-Year-Old

   • ABV: 46%
   • Price: $226
   • Score: 94/100 (Gold)
   • Profile: Combining three distinct distillates, this whiskey presents aromas of seasoned wood and caramelized banana, with smooth flavors of roasted nuts and stone fruit.

3. Midleton Very Rare 2025

   • ABV: 40%
   • Price: $200
   • Score: 94/100 (Gold)
   • Profile: This elegant release features aromas of honeysuckle and vanilla, with a layered palate highlighting orchard fruit and notes of cooked cereal.

4. Jameson Triple Triple Sherry Bourbon & Malaga Edition

   • ABV: 40%
   • Price: $33
   • Score: 93/100 (Gold)
   • Profile: Maturing in bourbon, sherry, and Malaga wine casks, it offers rich notes of dried fruits and honeyed flavors with a sweet, lingering finish.

5. Accord Stone Irish Whiskey

   • ABV: 50%
   • Price: $70
   • Score: 93/100 (Gold)
   • Profile: This boutique whiskey features smooth aromas of honey and vanilla, with hints of butterscotch.

6. Jameson Black Barrel

   • ABV: 40%
   • Price: $38
   • Score: 92/100 (Gold)
   • Profile: Aged in double-charred bourbon barrels for increased depth, it showcases aromas of butterscotch and spice cake.

7. Jameson Crested

   • ABV: 40%
   • Price: $45
   • Score: 91/100 (Gold)
   • Profile: Exhibits aromas of red berries and sherried wood, with rich flavors of cooked cereal and ripe plum.

Noteworthies

Additional Gold medalists included:

• Jameson Caskmates IPA Edition

  • Price: $35, Score: 90/100

• Jameson Triple Triple Sherry Bourbon & Sicilian Marsala Edition

  • Price: $33, Score: 90/100

With a range of award-winning options from Jameson and Midleton, these Irish blended whiskeys are celebrated for their smoothness and complexity, making them must-tries for any whiskey enthusiast in 2025.

Appleton Estate has unveiled The Source, a remarkable rum that holds the title of the world’s oldest tropically aged spirits, matured for an extraordinary 51 years. Crafted from single-estate sugar cane, this limited-release rum showcases meticulous production methods, including traditional copper pot still distillation and open-top fermentation. Its journey commenced on July 30, 1973, resting initially in a single American oak cask and eventually leading to a collection of over 40 casks aimed at experimentation with hyper maturation. The rum was diligently overseen by Owen Tulloch, the distillery’s former Master Blender, and later by Dr. Joy Spence, the industry’s first female Master Blender.

Jamaica’s warm climate significantly accelerates the aging process, making this spirit mature approximately two to three times faster compared to those aged in cooler conditions, such as in the U.S. and Europe. This results in a liquid that presents a maturity similar to that of a Scotch whisky aged over a century. The Source is limited to just 25 decanters worldwide, each carrying a steep price tag of $70,000.

To honor its remarkable creation, the rum is housed in heart-shaped decanters featuring a crystalline aquamarine base, which symbolizes the iconic limestone-filtered aquifer central to Appleton Estate. This water source has been a source of inspiration for Dr. Joy Spence throughout her career.

In addition to this milestone release, Appleton Estate is partnering with the Jamaica Art Society to bolster support for local artists and curators, reinforcing their commitment to the creative community in Jamaica.

Having experienced an exclusive tasting of The Source, here’s an overview of its distinctive flavor profile:

Tasting Notes

Nose: The aroma reveals a blend of spiced figs, sweet oak, date syrup, and Madagascan vanilla, enriched by hints of cinnamon, raw maple syrup, and torched orange rinds.

Palate: The initial taste features black cherries, moist coffee cake, truffle chocolate, and star anise. The rum displays a vibrant mouthfeel, revealing more fruit-forward characteristics as it opens up, with prominent notes of black cherry and spiced figs.

Finish: The finish is lush and viscous, marked by a punch of spices like cinnamon bark and peppercorns, culminating in lingering notes of oak and candied ginger.

Conclusion

The Source is not just the oldest rum of its kind but a testament to the painstaking efforts involved in its creation, making it a rare collectible for connoisseurs. It exemplifies a new benchmark for tropical aging in rums, showcasing a dynamic texture and a richly complex flavor profile.

Rating: 99/100

Kentucky State University and Brough Brothers Distillery have launched a notable partnership resulting in the creation of the "1886 Select" Bourbon Whiskey Collection, unveiled at a press conference on July 14, 2025. This collaboration merges the institution’s academic prowess with Brough Brothers’ craft distilling, focusing on innovative research to enhance bourbon flavor profiles through unique wood stave finishing techniques.

Dr. Koffi Akakpo, the university’s president, emphasized the partnership as a blend of academic excellence and Kentucky’s bourbon heritage, noting its role in translating their research into tangible products. The 1886 Select collection consists of five varieties of bourbon, each receiving finishing touches from different wood staves including white oak, maple, walnut, and hickory, alongside a control variety. This research was led by Dr. Kirk Pomper, who investigated how these different toasted woods could influence the aging process and flavor characteristics of bourbon.

Master Distiller Bryson Yarbrough was instrumental in overseeing the project, from selecting the barrels to crafting the staves and monitoring the aging process. Dr. Marcus Bernard, dean of the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources, highlighted how this collaboration provides students with hands-on experience that is invaluable for their education and career preparation in the bourbon industry.

Victor Yarbrough, CEO of Brough Brothers Distillery, pointed out the synergy in combining traditional distilling practices with contemporary research, creating opportunities for flavor advancements while immersing students in the bourbon sector. The initiative is part of a broader strategy at Kentucky State University to cultivate workforce-ready graduates in fermentation and distillation sciences.

The university’s program has attracted over 80 students, many of whom have gained practical experience through internships in local breweries and distilleries. The 1886 Select project additionally opened avenues for students to engage in sensory evaluations, chemical analyses, and data collection.

Moreover, the collaboration extends the university’s mission to assist both traditional and non-traditional students by offering workshops in home brewing and distillation, thereby promoting accessible education in fermentation sciences.

The environmental conditions affecting the bourbon barrels were monitored throughout the research, yielding valuable insights into how different wood types impact bourbon aging. Proceeds from the bourbon collection will be allocated to furthering research in fermentation and distillation sciences at Kentucky State University.

Overall, this partnership showcases the potential for academic institutions and industry to collaboratively drive education and innovation, enriching Kentucky’s bourbon landscape while benefiting students directly.

For inquiries about the fermentation and distillation sciences program at Kentucky State University, contact Dr. Michael Strysick, Associate Dean of Strategic Communications, at [email protected] or 502-597-6818.

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Blue Run Spirits has launched its Flight Series III, presenting a collection of six innovative micro-blends that embody the essence of various American environments, from sun-kissed coastlines to rugged trails. This release demonstrates Blue Run’s commitment to advancing the craft of whiskey blending.

Founded in 2020, Blue Run quickly gained recognition for its unique offerings, under the guidance of legendary Master Distiller Jim Rutledge. After being acquired by Coors Spirits Co., the brand expanded its reach and production capabilities. The Flight Series showcases these advancements, allowing for exceptional micro-blends sourced from multiple distilleries, including Castle & Key and Bardstown Bourbon Co. Each blend highlights the distillery’s ability to create diverse flavor profiles.

Crafted under the direction of Shaylyn Gammon, Head of Whiskey and Innovation, each of the six expressions has a distinct name and profile. They are named Buck & Brush, Sun & Salt, Fit & Flair, Beach & Blooms, Filly & Fiddle, and Sails & Rails, with each bottle priced at $124.99.

Buck & Brush (55.35% ABV)

This expression draws inspiration from the Western frontier and offers a balance of citrusy flavors and earthy spices. The nose reveals orange peel and mint, while the palate provides a complex mix of black cherry and seasoned oak, making it ideal for pairing with grilled meats.

Beach & Blooms (54.95% ABV)

Reflecting a coastal garden, this blend features aromas of tropical fruits and cinnamon. On the palate, it offers a sweeter profile filled with flavors of peach and plumb, rounded off with a lingering finish of caramel and tropical notes.

Filly & Fiddle (55.65% ABV)

Capturing the spirit of Americana, this whiskey has floral and fruity aromas paired with savory notes. With flavors of baked apple and maple syrup, it’s perfect for summer gatherings, serving well as both an aperitif and a dessert companion.

Fit & Flair (58.5% ABV)

As the boldest expression, Fit & Flair showcases rich aromas of burnt sugar and roasted nuts. Its palate is peppery with flavors of dark chocolate and caramel apples, making it a great choice for cozy evenings by the fire.

Sails & Rails (57.5% ABV)

This whiskey pays homage to American history, presenting aromas of vanilla and tropical fruits. The palate captures flavors ranging from banana flambé to peach cobbler, finishing with wood spices and a hint of smokiness.

Sun & Salt (55.1% ABV)

Possibly the most exotic blend, Sun & Salt encapsulates a beach day vibe. Its nose evokes sea breezes and butterscotch, while on the palate, it marries burnt caramel with orchard fruits.

Blue Run’s Flight Series III not only showcases a rich array of flavors and aromas but also serves as an exploration of blending artistry. Each expression, while unique, contributes to a cohesive narrative of what defines modern American whiskey.

India is experiencing a renaissance in rum production, championing a new wave of cane juice rums that reflect its rich heritage and innovative spirit. Historically, rum in India was largely produced from molasses, a byproduct of sugar manufacturing. However, the emergence of cane juice rum marks a significant shift towards using fresh-pressed sugarcane juice, which elevates the quality and complexity of the drink.

Cane juice rums carry the signature of their geographical origins, akin to French "terroir." This revival mirrors the journey of rum agricole in regions such as Martinique and Guadeloupe, where local traditions were preserved even amid changing economic landscapes. India boasts an illustrious history with sugarcane cultivation, tracing back over 5,000 years, yet its applications in premium spirits have been limited until now.

The new cane juice rums offer rich and nuanced flavors, allowing for a more distinct identity that’s closely tied to India’s diverse climate and soil. By fermenting fresh cane juice with local yeast, distillers craft spirits that possess a fresh, vibrant character, setting them apart from traditional molasses-based options.

Indian rums typically showcase a balanced profile with hints of spice, wood, and vanilla, making them ideal for crafting modern cocktails. They challenge long-standing stereotypes of rum being merely a winter drink by asserting themselves as versatile spirits suitable for any season—whether enjoyed neat or mixed.

For bartenders introducing these rums, classic cocktails like the daiquiri allow the liquor to shine through, reflecting its quality and story. As global producers increasingly explore cane juice, Indian distillers are not just following suit but also carving a unique path forward.

Ultimately, Indian cane juice rums represent more than just a beverage; they embody a narrative of tradition, innovation, and cultural identity, offering drinkers a taste of India in every glass. The evolving landscape of rum in India promises not just delightful experiences but an exciting blend of heritage and modernity.

Rum is a versatile spirit often misunderstood, typically associated with sugary fruit punches. However, some rums rival the finest Scotch or bourbon. Renowned Master Blender Joy Spence from Appleton Estate recommends five exceptional rum cocktails that showcase the spirit’s full range and complexity, with modern twists from UK bartender Nathan Larkin.

5. Daiquiri

A classic Daiquiri is celebrated for its simplicity and balance of lime and sugar. Joy Spence highlights its historical connection to rum, originating from Cuba.

Recipe:

• 50ml White Rum
• 25ml Freshly squeezed lime juice
• 15ml Simple syrup (1:1 sugar to water)
• 3 drops saline solution (20% non-iodised salt to water)

Key to a great Daiquiri is a proper shake. Use a cobbler shaker for better aeration.

4. Mai Tai

The Mai Tai takes its name from the Tahitian phrase meaning “Out of this world.” This cocktail should highlight rum rather than be masked by excessive fruit juices.

Recipe:

• 25ml White Rum
• 10ml Aged Rum
• 15ml Dry Curacao
• 5ml Angostura Di Amaro
• 5ml Overproof Rum
• 25ml Lime Juice
• 20ml Smoked Vanilla & Halva Orgeat
• Grated nutmeg for garnish

Nathan’s version emphasizes balance and complexity without overpowering additives like pineapple juice.

3. Old Fashioned

Traditionally a bourbon drink, the Old Fashioned surprisingly excels with rum, especially when sweetened with brown sugar.

Recipe:

• 60ml Aged Rum
• 10ml Dandelion Demerara
• Dandelion Bitters

Larkin uses dandelion flowers and roots to enhance the flavor profile, demonstrating the drink’s versatility with varied bitters.

2. Stormy Valley

Inspired by the Dark and Stormy, the Stormy Valley utilizes ginger cordial and carbonated water, allowing for nuanced flavors.

Recipe:

• 50ml Aged Rum
• 10ml Clarified lime juice
• 20ml Ginger cordial
• 70ml Carbonated water
• Lapsang bitters to top

Prepared in batches, this cocktail showcases precision and balance, elevating a classic to a new level.

1. Rum Punch

With roots dating back to the 17th century, the Rum Punch is a historical cocktail often riddled with excess fruit juices.

Recipe:

• 35ml White Rum
• 10ml Peach wine
• 5ml Peach blossom distillate
• 10ml Lime juice
• 20ml Lacto fermented peach & oats
• 30ml Pimento spiced pineapple

Nathan’s take on the Rum Punch maintains balance and freshness, demonstrating that high-quality ingredients and techniques can transform a classic drink.

These five cocktails illustrate rum’s adaptability and encourage experimentation. Next time you’re choosing a cocktail, consider trying one of these refreshing options that reveal the spirit’s true potential.

According to Russia’s Federal Service for Alcohol Market Regulation, liquor production saw a significant decrease of 16% in the first half of 2025, a surprising trend given that Russians are reportedly consuming more alcohol than they did in 2024.

Traditionally, vodka is an integral part of Russian culture, used in various social occasions from weddings to funerals. The historical roots of this iconic beverage trace back to its name, derived from the Russian word voda, meaning water.

Despite vodka’s cultural significance, the country is producing less of it. The production fell to 31.38 million decaliters in 2025 from 33.40 million decaliters in 2024. Interestingly, there has been an uptick in consumption of other spirits, including rum, whiskey, brandy, and tequila.

Multiple factors contribute to this decline in vodka production. Rising alcohol prices and the ban on Russian alcohol exports to the EU and the US, especially following the Ukraine war, have severely impacted revenues for vodka manufacturers. A report indicated that vodka exports were merely worth $34.6 million in 2024, a stark drop from $168.3 million in 2021.

The increase in minimum pricing for vodka, with the cost of a half-litre bottle going up from $2.99 to $3.49, further exacerbates the issue. Kazakhstan remains the primary market for Russian vodka, accounting for more than 92% of its imports, while China accounts for a mere $1.5 million.

Despite expectations for sales increases in markets like China and Turkey, the trajectory has not met the predictions as vodka faces tougher competition, including from Polish spirit exports now leading the market.

In summary, while Russians are drinking more, the combination of geopolitical issues, market dynamics, and rising prices is leading to a curious paradox in the vodka industry: less production amid higher consumption.