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Soda and juice giant Coca-Cola is making strides into the alcohol market with the launch of vodka-infused varieties of its Minute Maid brand. This month, the company introduced canned options like pink lemonade and fruit punch, each containing 5% alcohol by volume. These new products expand a line that already included wine-based cocktails such as Strawberry Daiquiri and Lime Margarita.

Coca-Cola has ramped up its involvement in the alcohol sector in recent years. Notable collaborations include a partnership with Jack Daniel’s and the release of Absolut Vodka with Sprite, exclusively in Europe. In 2023, the company established a subsidiary called Red Tree Beverages to streamline the entry of its products into the market and navigate regulatory challenges.

According to Rachael Waddell, senior director of Red Tree Beverages, the company aims to capitalize on the growing trend in ready-to-drink (RTD) alcoholic beverages. "Alcohol ready-to-drink is our first category; it’s all we do and all we participate in," Waddell stated. The internal testing at Red Tree indicated a rising demand for juice products mixed with spirits, aligning with the common practice of mixing lemonade with liquor at home.

Minute Maid’s high brand recognition creates a unique opportunity for mixed alcoholic drinks. Waddell highlighted that Vodka Pink Lemonade is the first of its kind in the RTD category. To ensure responsible consumption, particularly given Minute Maid’s popularity with children, the packaging clearly states that the drink is for consumers over the age of 21.

The launch reflects a broader trend in non-carbonated, juice-based drinks within the RTD alcohol market. Red Tree Beverages is set to compete as various brands like Surfside and Sprinter are thriving in the vodka cocktail space. As the RTD cocktail market is projected to soar to $3.6 billion by 2033, with vodka products comprising over 19% this year, Coca-Cola’s entry could significantly influence this burgeoning segment.

Lynyrd Skynyrd fans have an exciting opportunity to meet the iconic band’s front men, Johnny Van Zant and Rickey Medlocke, at a special bottle signing event for their new Hell House Whiskey. This event is scheduled for April 5 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Oak Point Fresh Market, located at 12732 Perkins Road.

The new whiskey pays homage to the Hell House Cabin, a significant location in the band’s history where many legendary songs were crafted. It was also a cherished retreat for original members Ronnie Van Zant, Gary Rossington, and Allen Collins, along with their bandmates.

Hell House Whiskey is the result of a collaboration between Lynyrd Skynyrd and Bespoken Spirits, a innovative craft whiskey producer out of Kentucky. The whiskey, crafted with a flavor profile developed by Van Zant and Medlocke, serves as a tribute to the band’s storied musical journey and the historic cabin that significantly influenced their sound.

Absolut Vodka & Sprite has expanded its ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktail offerings by introducing a new watermelon-flavored variant. This 5% alcohol by volume (ABV) canned drink will be available in grocery and convenience stores with a recommended retail price of £2.30 for a 250ml can. The launch follows the introduction of the original Absolut Vodka & Sprite RTD in February 2024.

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners selected the watermelon flavor due to its "vibrant, juicy profile," aiming to bring "something fresh and exciting" to the RTD market, which is currently valued at £631 million. The company plans to support the launch with a robust summer marketing campaign that includes social media outreach, out-of-home (OOH) advertising, and influencer collaborations.

Elaine Maher, the associate director for alcoholic ready-to-drink products at CCEP GB, emphasized that innovation is crucial for their RTD portfolio. She touted the watermelon variant as a transformative addition, aiming to enhance consumer enjoyment of this classic flavor pairing. With vodka maintaining its top-tier status in RTDs, the move to introduce a bold watermelon twist aligns with current trends of flavor innovation in the market.

For more details, visit:

• Absolut Vodka & Sprite
• Coca-Cola
• New Product Development

X MUSE is carving its niche in the competitive vodka market by intertwining art, mythology, and quality craftsmanship. Founded by Robert Wilson, an art patron and creator of Jupiter Artland, and Vadim Grigorian, a former luxury director at Pernod Ricard, the brand differentiates itself by emphasizing a narrative that is personal and transcendental, rather than just another vodka with an empty story.

Positioned as a luxury vodka, X MUSE draws inspiration from Scotland’s rich distilling heritage while aiming to reshape the perception of vodka as merely a neutral spirit. Wilson notes that X MUSE embodies a connection to art, aiming to “create moments of transcendent connection” that elevate the drinking experience beyond the ordinary.

The brand’s identity is infused with artistic philosophy. The name “X MUSE” represents a harmony and unseen qualities, reinforced by a Latin motto on its bottles, encouraging consumers to seek deeper meanings. This philosophical approach goes hand in hand with efforts to engage consumers on an emotional level, inviting them into a sense of discovery and elegance that transcends visual appeal.

X MUSE capitalizes on its ties to Jupiter Artland, with water sourced from an ancient aquifer enhancing the vodka’s purity. The brand prides itself on using heritage barley, a departure from the common practice in the vodka industry. Wilson and Grigorian’s rigorous research and experimentation established that using barley traditionally associated with whisky can yield a distinctive flavor profile, defying initial skepticism about its viability.

The production process of X MUSE blends elements usually reserved for whisky and challenges vodka norms. By combining textural qualities with innovative techniques, the brand aims to offer a more complex spirit. A unique touch is added with “Magic Drops,” water energized in a specific manner, highlighting the artful journey behind each bottle.

X MUSE places significant value on the narrative behind its ingredients, believing that authenticity is essential. As tastes evolve, so too does the pursuit of a refined narrative surrounding vodka. As they prepare to enter the U.S. market, Wilson and Grigorian are focused on maintaining the brand’s exclusivity while emphasizing its artistic foundations. They plan to expand through collaborations with art institutions and high-end hospitality venues.

As the vodka market shifts toward intentionality and storytelling, X MUSE positions itself as a brand that resonates with contemporary consumers. Through carefully curated experiences and a commitment to quality, it aims to remain an aspirational choice in a landscape filled with mass-produced spirits. This alignment of art, craftsmanship, and authentic experiences may well define the future of premium vodka brands in 2025.

On a recent visit to Barbados, I had the opportunity to explore the world’s oldest rum distillery—Mount Gay. Known for its picturesque landscape, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture, Barbados is truly an island paradise.

Driving through lush sugar cane fields in St. Lucy parish, I could hardly wait to arrive at the iconic distillery founded in 1703. The distillery tour offered insights into rum production, showcasing the pot stills and fermentation processes that have been perfected over centuries.

Nestled within 300 acres of rolling fields, Mount Gay has a storied past that dates back to its original ownership by John Sober. In 1747, Sir John Gay Alleyne took over, and the name Mount Gay was born.

As the tour began, I donned a hard hat and learned about the basic ingredients for rum: water, yeast, and molasses. The tour guide took us to the artesian well that has been operational since 1703, providing the mineral-rich water essential for rum making.

Next, we explored the molasses house, where harvested sugarcane is refined into the malty syrup that contributes to rum’s flavor profile. The unique aromas produced here are a result of both the carefully selected ingredients and the native Bajan yeast.

The production environment in Barbados is distinct—rum evaporates five times faster than whiskey or cognac due to the island’s warm climate. As I leaned over the pot stills, the sweet taste of molasses lingered in the air, further enhancing the experience.

One highlight was visiting the aging bonds where thousands of barrels are stored under the watchful eye of Trudiann Branker, Mount Gay’s first female master blender. The tasting room was the grand finale of the experience, where I sampled a variety of rums, each delivering distinct flavor notes—from peppery to citrusy.

Tips for enjoying rum included pairing it with frozen coconut water, leading to delightful taste combinations that reflect the unique terroir of the region. Mount Gay’s rums cater to every palate, making it a must-visit for aficionados and novices alike.

When it comes to accommodations, the Waves Resort & Spa offers luxurious amenities including a complimentary spa treatment.

For dining, Champers provides an exquisite cliffside eating experience, and for authentic local fare, visiting Pat’s Place at Oistin’s Fish Fry is highly recommended.

If you’re seeking adventure, consider booking an off-road tour with Island Safari or sailing on the turquoise waters with Cool Runnings Catamaran.

For more details about Mount Gay rum, visit here.

Located in downtown Louisville, Rabbit Hole Distillery has been carving out its niche in the whiskey world since its inception in 2018. Under the guidance of its founder Kaveh Zamanian, an Iranian immigrant with a love for bourbon sparked by his Kentuckian wife, the distillery has grown in popularity. Zamanian emphasizes a philosophy that combines traditional whiskey-making with a spirit of creativity, which is especially evident in his recent collaboration with actor Jay Ellis.

At the Sundance Film Festival, a meeting between Zamanian and Ellis led to the creation of the Creative Spirits Challenge, an initiative aimed at providing resources for emerging filmmakers by giving them access to cameras. This effort aims to bridge the gap between the worlds of film and whiskey, fostering stories that deserve to be told.

In conjunction with the challenge, they are set to release a limited-edition whiskey this spring, with details yet to be announced. A portion of the proceeds will support aspiring filmmakers, making it a project that promises to have a significant impact.

Before the arrival of this collaborative release, I decided to sample and rank Rabbit Hole’s core whiskey lineup, which consists of four key expressions.

4. Rabbit Hole Cavehill Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

ABV: 47.5%
Average Price: $55

Cavehill is a four-grain bourbon featuring a mash bill of 70% corn, 10% malted wheat, 10% malted barley, and 10% honey malted barley. This offering is known for its light and sweet profile, with floral and botanical notes that appeal to a wide range of palates.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Grain-forward, with hints of black pepper and sugar.
• Palate: Corn husk, butterscotch, and green apple flavors shine through, creating a refreshing sip.
• Finish: Short-to-medium, enhancing its refreshing character.

Bottom Line: Great for newcomers, it offers enough intrigue for seasoned enthusiasts.

3. Rabbit Hole Heigold Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

ABV: 47.5%
Average Price: $45

Heigold’s mash bill consists of 70% corn, 25% rye, and 5% malted barley, allowing for added depth and spiciness. Like Cavehill, it’s made in small batches and aged at least three years.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Butterscotch and stewed apples with earthy spices.
• Palate: Smoky honey flavors and red apples with a denser mouthfeel.
• Finish: Medium-to-long, showcasing baking spices and sweet flavors.

Bottom Line: A more complex expression for those who appreciate nuanced flavors.

2. Rabbit Hole Boxergrail Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey

ABV: 47.5%
Average Price: $55

Boxergrail diverges with its unique rye recipe while retaining the small-batch approach.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Dominated by green apples and spearmint with notable peppery undertones.
• Palate: Familiar rye notes with added spice and a robust mouthfeel.
• Finish: Textural and complex with offerings of thyme and barrel char.

Bottom Line: This rye whiskey stands out for its edge and complexity.

1. Rabbit Hole Dareringer Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished In PX Sherry Casks

ABV: 46.5%
Average Price: $80

Dareringer features a blend of corn, wheat, and malted barley, finished in sherry casks to enhance its sweetness.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Rich aromas of fruit cake, mulled wine, and dark chocolate.
• Palate: The fruit notes transform into red berry preserves with a sweet finish.
• Finish: Sweet, with layers of spices and complexity.

Bottom Line: A sophisticated, rewarding experience for those willing to explore deeper flavors.

Final Insights

Despite its relative youth, Rabbit Hole is making waves in the whiskey scene with a lineup that appeals to both newcomers and aficionados alike. The unique characteristics found in each expression showcase how versatile younger whiskeys can be. As Rabbit Hole continues to develop, it solidifies its position as a must-try for those wanting to explore the evolving landscape of American whiskey.

To participate in the Creative Spirits Challenge, aspiring filmmakers can submit a video telling their story for a chance to win a professional camera and mentorship from Jay Ellis. Interested entrants must be 21 or older, with submissions open until March 31, 2025.

• For more information about the Creative Spirits Challenge.

Some whiskey enthusiasts are in for a thrilling opportunity: a chance to win a lifetime supply of Fireball Cinnamon Whisky, but there’s a catch—you must have been born during or before 1935, making you at least 90 years old.

Fireball is celebrating America’s senior citizens with this unique contest, which allows those eligible to win a grand prize that equates to $2,400 in cash, issued as a check.

How to Enter

To participate, contenders must head to www.lifetimesupplyoffireball.com and submit a short essay detailing how they plan to "keep life mischievous" at their age, along with a photo enjoying Fireball. Contestants can enter on their own behalf or be nominated by someone else. For those not comfortable online, entries can also be sent via traditional mail to the Sazerac Company.

Contest Timeline

All entries must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. ET on March 31, 2025, with mail-in entries due by April 5, 2025. Winners will be contacted beginning April 7.

Fireball’s Response

Danny Suich, Fireball’s global brand director, expressed enthusiasm for the contest, noting, “Senior citizens love Fireball. And who are we to argue with their years of wisdom?” He elaborated that it’s a celebration of the generation born as Prohibition ended, highlighting their contributions to shared happiness.

This contest is a fun and heartfelt way to honor the life experiences of individuals who have seen so much history unfold over the decades.

The Chicago Rum Fest is set to make its grand return for the ninth consecutive year, bringing together rum enthusiasts and industry professionals from across the nation. This event is scheduled for April 26 at the Logan Square Auditorium and promises to be a vibrant celebration of all things rum.

The festival will feature a variety of premium rum selections, highlighting both national and international brands. Attendees will have the chance to sample a diverse array of rums and participate in educational sessions. These sessions aim to enhance their understanding of rum, covering topics such as production methods, tasting techniques, and cocktail crafting.

In addition to tastings and workshops, the event will also include entertainment and opportunities for networking, making it an ideal destination for both seasoned rum aficionados and newcomers looking to explore the world of rum. As excitement builds, attendees can look forward to an unforgettable experience filled with flavor, learning, and camaraderie.

Best Coast Distillers, located on a North Saanich farm, has introduced Canada’s first Agricole Rum, made from hand-harvested sorghum, marking a significant milestone in Canadian spirits. This innovative rum takes inspiration from Martinique, where Agricole refers to rum produced from sugar cane juice rather than molasses.

With the Saanich Peninsula’s unique microclimate providing just over 120 days for optimal sorghum growth, the process is inherently labor-intensive and deeply connected to the land. The co-founder of Best Coast, Corey Wood, emphasized the personal connection to farming, recalling how their family has cultivated this land since 1927.

This initial batch of Agricole Rum is a limited offering with only 170 bottles priced just under $140, each featuring hand-written labels. Wood explained, “This batch is very personal to us. We’ve done something nobody else has done.” The handcrafted nature of the rum involves not only the adults but also children actively participating in the harvest.

The rum itself has an earthy and slightly fruity flavor profile, attributed to its resting in French oak barrels for a year. Wood recommends enjoying it in a traditional Ti’ Punch, which combines the rum with cane sugar and lime.

Although Best Coast Distillers launched its products just a year ago, they have plans for further exploration in the spirits industry, including vodka-based teas and a bourbon made with local ingredients aimed for release in late 2026 as the farm celebrates its centennial. The distillery is also experimenting with agave spirits, having successfully grown agave that survived the winter.

For those interested, Agricole Rum is available for purchase online at bestcoastdistillers.com as well as at the distillery located at 1725 McTavish Rd.

Stepping into Smuggler’s Cove at 650 Gough St. in San Francisco is like entering a whimsical dreamscape. The initial adjustment to the dim lighting allows guests to fully embrace the bar’s theme – a blend of tiki culture and maritime adventure. General Manager Christopher Ward highlights the essence of the tiki experience as one of “whimsy,” inviting patrons into a fantasy world where traditional tiki vibes reign supreme.

The atmosphere evokes memories of childhood adventures, resembling a shipwrecked treehouse from classic animated films. However, I was not there to reminisce but rather to explore the captivating realm of tiki cocktails, which have long intimidated me with their complexity and elaborate garnishes.

Smuggler’s Cove, while not the oldest tiki bar in San Francisco, stands out for its deep commitment to rum and an extensive educational program for its customers. Owner Martin Cate pioneered the Rumbustion Society, a journey into the world of rum that includes tasting sessions and quizzes, designed to encourage patrons to truly explore the diverse offerings behind the bar.

As I prepared to tackle creating a classic tiki cocktail, the Dead Reckoning, I found reassurance in my guide, bartender Tim Symes, who’s accumulated considerable experience at the bar. The Dead Reckoning contains ingredients like rum, pineapple, and vanilla liqueur, and is widely regarded as a relatively straightforward drink among the menu’s 80 offerings.

The cocktail-making process was approachable, involving simple measurements and techniques. I carefully mixed pineapple juice, lemon juice, seltzer, and rum in a shaker. A mix of vanilla liqueur, cognac, and maple syrup followed, along with a splash of bitters and shaved ice. The result was a beautifully textured cocktail topped with garnishes that enhanced both aroma and presentation.

Upon my first sip, the balance of sweet and tart was mesmerizing; the Dead Reckoning went down easily—a testament to the craftsmanship that goes into each drink at Smuggler’s Cove. Alderman Ward emphasized that although batch drink preparations are common in many establishments today, their dedicated approach ensures that each cocktail retains its unique charm and quality.

Patrons like Heather Robinson and Jonathan Gilbert attest to the bar’s impactful experience, having returned for over a decade, attracted by the consistently high quality of drinks and the intriguing depth of the rum menu. With a staggering collection of around 1,300 rums, the bar strives to connect guests with the perfect rum experience, whether it sparks fond vacation memories or introduces them to unique flavors.

In summary, Smuggler’s Cove is not just a bar but an immersive journey into the world of rum and tiki culture, where guests can savor exquisite cocktails while embracing an enchanting atmosphere.