Liquor-articles 1851

Production of vodka in Russia has significantly declined, despite an increase in overall alcohol consumption. According to the Federal Service for Alcohol Market Regulation, spirits manufacturing fell by over 16 percent in the first half of 2025, with vodka production specifically down by 10.9 percent year-on-year. This dropped from 33.40 million decaliters in 2024 to 31.38 million in 2025.

Alcohol consumption in Russia has risen, with citizens drinking more than at any point in the last eight years, highlighting a shift in preferences toward beverages like rum, whiskey, brandy, and tequila, as noted by Russian financial auditing firm Finexpertisa. In 2024, per capita consumption of these liquors grew by 10.2 percent, overtaking vodka consumption in some regions. Despite this, vodka remains the drink of choice nationwide, constituting 60 percent of annual sales.

The decrease in vodka production is largely attributed to rising prices of alcohol and a ban on alcoholic beverage exports to the EU, U.S., and other nations, a consequence of Western sanctions related to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This ban has significantly hampered revenue for Russian vodka producers, affecting their overall market stability.

As June comes to a close, New Zealand is gearing up for its annual Rum Month in July, a time to celebrate the spirit with limited-edition cocktails designed to warm the soul during the winter chill. Appleton Estate has partnered with some of the top bars in the country, creating exclusive rum cocktails that you won’t find elsewhere.

From the cozy vibes of underground speakeasies to vibrant neighborhood bars, here are the must-try rum cocktails across the North and South Islands.

North Island Highlights

Sardine, Auckland

Sardine, the drink-savvy sister bar to White and Wong’s, features six rum cocktails for just $20 each, offering a variety to suit every palate.

The Grange, Takapuna

Known for its Grange Signature cocktail, this bar combines Appleton Estate rum with Campari, passionfruit, fresh lime, and egg white for a vibrant and bittersweet experience.

Deadshot, Ponsonby

This bar presents a new Aperitivo Menu, with the Blackbeard’s Fix cocktail mixing Appleton Signature rum with black tea and lemon for a refreshing take.

Bar Mea, Auckland CBD

Bar Mea introduces the Tropical Hummingbird, combining Appleton Estate 8yo rum with Aperol, passionfruit, and a mango foam, available Thursday to Sunday.

Park Hyatt, Auckland CBD

Captain’s Bar offers a refined experience with a bespoke rum flight featuring three Appleton Estate expressions, complemented by flavor-packed pairings.

Panacea, Auckland CBD

This unique bar serves a cocktail called Universally Speaking, featuring Appleton Estate Rum mixed with mango, lychee, and ume sake.

Albert’s Post, Mount Albert

Enjoy the Pineapple Ginger Rumbada, a blend of Appleton Estate Rum served in a hollowed-out pineapple, bringing tropical vibes to Mount Albert.

Nightcar, Auckland CBD

A more intimate setting, Nightcar serves a trio of Appleton Estate cocktails, perfect for pairing with their modern Chinese menu.

The Corner, Remuera

This local favorite presents a bold Old Fashioned, offering a refined twist on a classic cocktail.

Picnicka, Tauranga

Known for island-inspired cocktails, Picnicka serves the Black River Joy, Nassau Sour, and Three Push, One Steer, each packed with depth and creativity.

South Island Highlights

SODA, Queenstown

SODA’s Sunset Sip combines Appleton Estate Signature Rum with Amaro, Graham’s Port, and cinnamon, creating a rich, warming cocktail.

Habana Rum Bar, Queenstown

Tucked away in the laneways, Habana’s Rum Reverie blends Appleton Estate rum with tropical flavors, echoing classic tiki cocktails.

Little Blackwood, Queenstown

Famed for its nightlife, Little Blackwood serves a reimagined Mai Tai using the ultra-rare Appleton Estate 17YO, showcasing a housemade pistachio orgeat.

O.G.B. Christchurch

Offering a mix of vintage vibes and live music, OGB features the Vin Brûlé Tai—a spicy rum blend with mulled wine syrup, alongside two other standout cocktails.

Austin Club, Christchurch

This hidden gem presents the Hokey Pokey Mai Tai, mixing Appleton Estate Rum with a nostalgic Kiwi twist for a unique take on a classic.

Bloody Mary’s, Christchurch

At Bloody Mary’s, enjoy two unique cocktails featuring Appleton Estate 12-Year rum—the savory Butcher’s Pour and the spicy Irie.

For detailed information on participating venues and their unique offerings this Rum Month, visit Appleton Estate.

LQR House Inc. has entered into a strategic marketing partnership with Montauk Distilling Co. to promote its cinnamon-flavored rum. This collaboration aims to enhance brand visibility and boost ecommerce sales through a tailored three-month promotional campaign.

The initiative will utilize LQR House’s marketing expertise, which includes proprietary digital tools, targeted advertising strategies, and an extensive network of influencers. Sean Dollinger, CEO of LQR House, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting Montauk Cinnamon Rum’s unique flavor and strong consumer appeal. He emphasized their commitment to delivering specialized marketing services that help emerging and craft spirits brands connect with their target customers.

With this agreement, LQR House continues its mission to support quality beverage brands through data-driven marketing strategies. The campaign will be executed via CWSpirits.com, LQR House’s alcohol marketplace, which specializes in providing a diverse selection of premium spirits.

LQR House is committed to reshaping the online alcohol purchasing experience, demonstrating measurable success in sales through its strategic marketing efforts. This partnership represents an important step for both companies in capturing consumer interest in innovative spirits.

For more information on LQR House and their initiatives, you can visit CWSpirits.com.

In Key West, a place once frequented by Ernest Hemingway in the 1930s, the legacy of the legendary writer continues to thrive, particularly through a beloved cocktail: the Hemingway daiquiri. Known for his adventurous spirit, Hemingway often engaged in boxing, fishing, and clandestine drinking during Prohibition, traits that exemplified his dynamic lifestyle, reflected in his literary contributions like "For Whom the Bell Tolls" and "To Have and Have Not."

Hemingway’s influence is celebrated today in various ways, including his former home, the Hemingway Rum Company producing Papa’s Pilar Rum, and the annual Hemingway Days festival, which features a look-alike contest at Sloppy Joe’s, a bar he often frequented. The Hemingway daiquiri, originally crafted at El Floridita in Havana, Cuba, has since become a staple at Bar 1, located at the Key West Cooking School.

The Hemingway daiquiri is distinctively characterized by its bold flavor, made from white rum, citrus juices, and maraschino liqueur, intentionally avoiding the sweetness of a traditional daiquiri—reflecting Hemingway’s personal taste preference. Alongside this iconic drink, Bar 1 also offers other rum-based specialties like the Rum Runner and Key West Sunset.

In anticipation of National Daiquiri Day on July 19, visitors are encouraged to raise a glass at Bar 1, celebrating Hemingway’s memory with the cocktail that pays homage to his life and legacy in Key West. To craft your own Hemingway daiquiri at home, combine white rum, fresh lime and grapefruit juices, maraschino liqueur, and ice in a shaker, shaking until chilled and straining into a glass devoid of ice.

For an even bolder flavor, consider using an aged rum instead of a light rum to enhance the complexity of the drink.

Indian social media is abuzz with comparisons between Brad Pitt’s latest film "F1" and the 2007 Bollywood movie "Ta Ra Rum Pum," starring Saif Ali Khan and Rani Mukerji. The excitement surrounding "F1," which explores the world of Formula One racing, has led many Indian netizens to reminisce about "Ta Ra Rum Pum," a film that follows the journey of an aspiring professional car racer who faces hardships.

Director Siddharth Anand, who helmed "Ta Ra Rum Pum," contributed to the ongoing conversation by tweeting about his own film, expressing fondness for it. Social media commentary has ranged from playful to nostalgic, with users praising "Ta Ra Rum Pum" and arguing for its supremacy in the racing genre. As comparisons emerge, users highlight memorable lines and themes, humorously defending the Bollywood film against the global allure of "F1."

While "F1" portrays a fallen driver brought back to racing by a struggling team, "Ta Ra Rum Pum" tells a story of resilience following a tragic accident. Interestingly, the two films differ significantly in plot and execution, but the cultural impact of "Ta Ra Rum Pum" continues to resonate strongly with fans, making it a beloved classic in Bollywood racing cinema.

Related Links:

• Akshay Kumar & Saif Ali Khan to reunite for a new thriller
• Kareena Kapoor on sons witnessing Saif Ali Khan’s incident

I-10 East was shut down on the Atchafalaya Basin Bridge just past Whiskey Bay due to a crash, as reported by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD). The incident occurred before 4 p.m., forcing vehicles to use the right shoulder to navigate around the blockage. By around 5:15 p.m., all lanes were reopened.

DOTD officials noted significant traffic backups and advised drivers to seek alternate routes, especially since many were traveling back after the Fourth of July holiday. It is currently unclear if there were any injuries from the crash, and the cause is still under investigation.

The City of Prescott has recently shared a list of frequently asked questions about the proposed Plaza Hotel on Whiskey Row, which is set for a review by the City Council on Tuesday, July 8. The Q&A was posted on the city’s Facebook page on July 1.

The council meeting will be held at 3 p.m. at Prescott City Hall, located at 201 N. Montezuma Street, in the first-floor council chambers. Developer Jim Griset initially proposed the hotel project in August 2023, but the Prescott Preservation Commission denied his request to demolish the existing buildings at 136, 138, and 140 S. Montezuma Street, which would make way for a new four-story boutique hotel.

For further details, visit the city’s official Facebook page or the relevant news article.

The 2025 International Whiskey Competition recently awarded the title of the world’s best whiskey to Kavalan Solist Fino Sherry Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky, crafted in Taiwan. This whiskey outperformed all other competitors globally, achieving an impressive score of 97.04.

Judges assessed various whiskey entries, including bourbons and Scotches, in a rigorous double-blind taste test, where they knew neither the names nor the origins of the submissions. Max Solano, the competition director, highlighted that each whiskey is evaluated solely on its own merits.

The International Whiskey Competition stands apart by limiting its awards to gold, silver, and bronze medals in each category. This approach encourages distillers to submit only their finest products, ensuring high-quality results across the board. Solano noted a notable trend in submissions this year, with increased emphasis on experimental distilling, innovative barrel treatments, and contributions from previously underrepresented regions.

The intricate flavor profile of Kavalan’s award-winning whiskey impressed the judges. Adam Edmondson, the Master of Whiskey for the competition, described the whiskey’s nose as bursting with notes of mango, apricot, and grilled pineapple, complemented by layers of almonds, dried figs, and oak spice. The palate is characterized by rich plum, brandied cherries, and dark chocolate, leading to a finish marked by coffee, sandalwood, and dried citrus.

In addition to winning Whiskey of the Year, Kavalan Distillery was recognized as "Distillery of the Year," and its head of R&D, Zerose Yang, was named "Master Distiller of the Year." The distillery had multiple whiskeys ranking in the top tier of rated entries, including the Solist Manzanilla Sherry and Solist Palo Cortado, which scored 95.78 and 95.68, respectively. Solano emphasized that Kavalan’s achievements illustrate the potential of modern Taiwanese whiskey, merging traditional techniques with innovative approaches.

For more information, visit the International Whiskey Competition and explore the Kavalan Distillery.

David Ortiz has shared his reactions regarding the Boston Red Sox’s recent trade of All-Star Rafael Devers to the San Francisco Giants. Ortiz noted that he was not surprised by the decision, stating that sometimes players and teams must part ways if they cannot agree on specific conditions. Devers had been asked to play multiple positions, which he was reluctant to do, preferring to stay at third base. After Boston signed All-Star Alex Bregman, Devers was moved to designated hitter.

The trade sent Devers, who has a hefty 10-year, $313.5 million contract extension, to San Francisco in exchange for young players like Kyle Harrison and Jordan Hicks. Ortiz expressed well-wishes to Devers and pointed out that the trade provided the Red Sox with more financial flexibility to find someone aligned with the organization’s direction.

Since the trade on June 15, the Red Sox have struggled, posting a 5-8 record and falling 6.5 games behind the New York Yankees. Devers, on the other hand, has also faced challenges with his new team, batting just .204 since the trade compared to his .272 with the Red Sox.

Ortiz reflected on the mutual unhappiness between Devers and the Red Sox, emphasizing the necessity of moving forward for both parties. He expressed a desire to support Devers, being from the same Dominican Republic background, but noted that attempts to connect had been unsuccessful.

Beyond his baseball career, Ortiz is pivoting toward entrepreneurship with the launch of his rum brand, "Ozama Rum." Named after the Ozama River in Santo Domingo, the brand celebrates his heritage. Ortiz elaborated that the idea for the rum began about a year and a half ago, stemming from a passion for the natural ingredients and the sugarcane for which the Dominican Republic is renowned.

In launching Ozama Rum, Ortiz aims not only to introduce a premium product but also to create jobs back home. The reception has been promising, with testimonials about its quality and the lack of hangovers after consumption, resonating positively with consumers.

Discussing his vision for Ozama Rum, Ortiz highlighted the significance of quality and creativity in the product, aiming to connect with audiences through enjoyable experiences reminiscent of family gatherings from his childhood. His approach stresses fun and unity, reinforcing the communal aspects of enjoying rum—a beverage deeply tied to his upbringing and cultural traditions.

Fawn Weaver has become a prominent figure in the entrepreneurial world through her leadership of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, recognized as the fastest-growing whiskey brand in American history. Her company honors Nearest Green, a formerly enslaved master distiller whose expertise was integral to the creation of Jack Daniel’s whiskey. Weaver’s commitment is captured in her book, Love & Whiskey: The Remarkable True Story of Jack Daniel, His Master Distiller Nearest Green, and the Improbable Rise of Uncle Nearest (2024), which aims to rectify historical oversights.

Under her stewardship since 2017, Weaver and her husband have become substantial landowners in Tennessee, overseeing more than 800 acres. They deliberately avoid traditional venture capital and private equity, opting for a diverse set of smaller investments to control the company’s growth—an unusual strategy in an industry dominated by large corporations. The brand’s success has been phenomenal, expanding into all 50 states and 12 countries within just two years. It received multiple accolades, including titles like “World’s Best” by Whisky Magazine and Wine Enthusiast’s Spirit Brand of the Year for 2020.

Philanthropy is also central to Weaver’s mission. She established the Nearest Green Foundation, which provides scholarships to Green’s descendants and has played an active role during the COVID-19 pandemic by distributing protective equipment to communities in need. Additionally, the Foundation partnered with Jack Daniel’s Distillery to create the Nearest and Jack Advancement Initiative, aimed at fostering diversity in the whiskey industry.

Weaver’s background includes a successful career in real estate and authorship, with multiple bestsellers to her name. She also held prestigious roles in the hospitality industry before her venture into whiskey. Recently, she announced her new initiative, Nightcap With Fawn, aimed at helping individuals find happiness and success amid adversity.

Despite facing challenges early in life, including dropping out of high school at 16, Weaver’s journey reflects her dedication to education, as she completed her degree 25 years later, graduating summa cum laude. Her story is a testament to resilience, emphasizing entrepreneurial success intertwined with social justice and historical acknowledgment, making a significant impact in both business and community upliftment.

Related Links:

• Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey
• Fawn Weaver