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Johnny Depp recently made a rare public appearance at a launch event for his new rum brand, Three Hearts, held at the Wilshire Ebell Theatre in Los Angeles. The actor, known for his iconic role in the “Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise, celebrated the introduction of this spirit rather than a film premiere. The event drew a crowd of rock legends and various A-list celebrities, creating a lively atmosphere.

Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler hosted the evening, taking the stage alongside Depp’s band, Hollywood Vampires. The event also featured a performance from Matteo Bocelli, son of renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli. Among the star-studded guests were Grammy-winning musician Beck, Josh Homme of Queens of the Stone Age, and famed movie producer Jerry Bruckheimer.

Depp has not frequently been spotted on red carpets in recent years, making this appearance particularly notable as he mingled with guests and posed for photos, highlighting the debut of his Caribbean rum in collaboration with business partner Bobby DeLeon.

The inspiration for Three Hearts stems from Depp and DeLeon’s long-standing friendship and a desire to honor the rich traditions of Caribbean rum—an ambition that gained urgency after hurricanes impacted several islands. Depp played a key role in the creation of the rum’s bottle design, incorporating symbols reflective of his personal beliefs and family history, including tributes to his ex-wife Vanessa Paradis and their children, Lily-Rose and Jack.

The bottle proudly features a representation of Depp’s private Bahamian island, Little Hall’s Pond Cay, underscoring a connection to the islands’ heritage. In an official statement, Depp expressed, “Rum holds the history of the islands. It’s shaped by the hands of the people who grow the cane, ferment the spirit, and age it over time. Bobby and I wanted to create something that honored that tradition and the friendships that inspired it.”

Maine’s highest court has ruled that Fifth Generation, the maker of Tito’s Handmade Vodka, is required to pay $749,000 in unpaid taxes and fees. The case had been under legal scrutiny since 2018 and included multiple appeals from the company.

Fifth Generation argued that it shouldn’t be taxed in Maine since it does not have a physical location within the state. However, the Maine Supreme Judicial Court determined that the company had a significant enough tax presence due to its inventory being stored in a Maine warehouse, along with completing sales within the state’s regulated liquor distribution framework.

The court rejected the company’s claims of federal law exemption, highlighting that its activities involved more than merely soliciting orders; it was actively storing products and conducting sales in Maine, which qualifies as conducting business in the state. Furthermore, the court upheld Maine’s regulatory system as being constitutional and confirmed that the penalties applied were justified, given the company’s lack of legal basis for failing to pay the owed taxes.

For more information, you can view details on the ruling here.

Johnny Depp has officially launched his own rum brand, Three Hearts Rum, after seven years of development. Inspired by his iconic role as Captain Jack Sparrow from the Pirates of the Caribbean series, Depp’s venture into the rum market reflects his deep-rooted connection to the Caribbean, dating back over two decades when he filmed the first movie in 2002.

The inaugural product comes from a family-owned distillery in the Dominican Republic, where it undergoes a unique aging process. Initially matured for five years in bourbon barrels, it is then aged for an additional two years in Cognac casks, resulting in a flavor profile reminiscent of maple syrup and toffee pudding with a subtle leathery finish.

Depp emphasized his desire to create a rum that can be enjoyed over time rather than consumed quickly. He cited his preference for dark rum, which is meant to be savored rather than rapidly downed. The new label seems keen to offer a sophisticated alternative to the often overly sweet spiced rums prevalent on the market.

The bottle itself is a work of art, featuring Depp’s personal tattoo designs and an inscription that reads, “No Fear. No Malice. No Envy.” This design choice underlines that the product embodies Depp’s character and authenticity, showcasing the thoughtful crafting behind it.

In pursuing this endeavor, Depp seeks to highlight the traditional rum-making techniques of the Caribbean while providing a revenue stream for the distillers involved. He expresses a hopeful yet realistic outlook on the brand’s future and its potential resonance with consumers. Currently priced at $70 per bottle, Three Hearts Rum is now available on shelves, inviting rum enthusiasts to experience this distinct creation.

For more information, visit Three Hearts Rum.

Of Louisville’s many whiskey makers, Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. stands out for its unique approach and commitment to tradition. Established in 1889 by Polish immigrant Henry Kraver, the brand was revived in 2013 by his descendants who wanted to honor their heritage while innovating within the whiskey industry. Located in a vintage tobacco warehouse, Peerless has become known for producing distinctive bourbons, including recently crowned award winners.

On April 22, 2026, Peerless will release its first-ever 10-year bourbon, named Henry Kraver’s Old Reserve Bourbon. This new expression follows the brand’s successful High Rye Bourbon, which won accolades from the International Wine & Spirits Competition in 2024. The upcoming bourbon will be crafted using a sweet mash process, aged in Kentucky, and bottled at barrel strength, specifically at 117.6 proof.

Co-founder Roy M. “Corky” Taylor III expressed his pride in honoring his great-grandfather, telling the story of the team that contributed to this milestone. Despite not having a disclosed retail price as of yet, the whiskey will be available for purchase following its debut at the distillery, with plans for an annual release.

Having sampled an early batch, the review noted its complex flavor profile featuring dark fruits like black figs and prunes, a dusty warehouse aroma, and hints of chocolate and spice. The palate opened with rich caramel notes intermingled with surprisingly fruity twists, transitioning to a finish that melded grape, leather, and a warm sensation characteristic of high-proof bourbons. This latest offering from Peerless maintains its innovative spirit as it aims to push the boundaries of whiskey flavors, showcasing the distillery’s artistry.

With Henry Kraver’s Old Reserve, Peerless continues to make its mark in Kentucky bourbon, with each new release solidifying its legacy while offering something fresh and exciting to whiskey enthusiasts.

Johnny Depp is launching a new venture into the spirits market with the debut of Three Hearts Rum, a brand that reflects his deep ties to the Caribbean. This rum has been a long time coming, developed over several years, and is set to retail for $69.99, with initial sales occurring exclusively online at ThreeHearts.com.

Depp’s co-founder, Bobby DeLeon, stated that they began seriously considering entering the rum market in 2021. They took their time to assemble a team, secure funding, and select the right aged rum from a distillery. Depp expressed his emotional connection to the Caribbean, stating, "The Caribbean is a deeply meaningful presence in my life… when something means that much to you, you don’t rush it."

The rum is produced in the Dominican Republic, aged for seven years, and features a flavor profile described as sticky toffee with notes of wood, spices, candied orange, and vanilla. The production emphasizes traditional rum-making practices, avoiding modern gimmicks in favor of honoring the craft and its heritage.

Depp has thoroughly engaged in the creation process, including the design of the bottle which incorporates personal symbols like his tattoos and a custom flag to adorn his private island in the Bahamas. The bottle also features the motto “No Fear. No Malice. No Envy” at its base.

While many celebrities have ventured successfully into tequila and whiskey, rum has garnered less celebrity attention, despite the category generating $2.1 billion in the U.S. The recent sales decline in rum could pose challenges for Three Hearts Rum; however, DeLeon remains optimistic about the brand’s potential to appeal to fans of other spirits.

Depp and DeLeon also have plans to launch future products highlighting different rum-making regions across the Caribbean, aiming to diversify and expand their brand’s presence in the market.

Nütrl has launched two new flavors of vodka seltzer—Blueberry and Peach—aiming to refresh their offerings and stand out in a crowded market. Vodka seltzers usually deliver classic flavors like lemon or lime, but these new additions bring something distinctive. Both flavors are made with real vodka and fruit juice, avoiding artificial flavors or sweeteners.

Steve Wolf, Anheuser-Busch’s vice president of marketing beyond beer, highlighted that blueberry is a flavor rarely found in spirits-based seltzers, despite its popularity in juices and energy drinks. This presents an opportunity for Nütrl to differentiate itself with a quality product that doesn’t compromise on taste. Meanwhile, peach is a well-loved flavor among seltzers, making its arrival a sensible choice.

Both new flavors have an alcohol content of 4.5 percent ABV and follow the brand’s established recipe of vodka, seltzer, and real juice. Since their debut, consumer reaction has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly for the blueberry flavor, with many eager to try the new offerings.

These flavors are now available in four-packs at various retailers, and peach is also featured in Nütrl’s Fruit Variety Pack #2, which includes other popular flavors. As the demand for unique, high-quality beverages continues to rise, these new flavors may well satisfy consumers looking for something different from the usual seltzer options.

Revlon has announced the return of its beloved Rum Raisin lipstick, famously known as the perfect shade for a ’90s-inspired look. This classic lipstick is available again for just $6, delighting beauty enthusiasts who remember its popularity from decades past.

The Rum Raisin shade offers deep color with a smooth finish, ideal for those seeking to recreate that iconic ’90s lip look. Shoppers rave about its long-lasting wear and moisturizing formula, which contains 80% conditioning ingredients. Many users report that it enhances the lips’ natural fullness while providing a silky, lightweight texture that feels comfortable on the lips.

For fans of nostalgia, the Rum Raisin lipstick captures the essence of the ’90s. Long-time users share fond memories, with some saying the shade reminds them of times filled with flannel shirts and grunge music. It has become a staple for anyone wanting to channel that era’s style.

Whether you’re a seasoned beauty lover or someone looking to try a new lipstick, the Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Rum Raisin could be the perfect addition to your makeup collection this fall.

If you’re also a fan of tinted lip balms, there’s a new version of Rum Raisin available that maintains the much-loved shade while offering a different finish.

Grab your tube now and relive the ’90s with this classic lip color!

Buy Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Rum Raisin

With an array of impressive American craft whiskey producers on the rise, whiskey enthusiasts now have more alternatives than ever to big-name brands. Rather than defaulting to established labels, connoisseurs should consider exploring new options that promise unique flavor experiences.

To assist with this exploration, Brian Luftman, co-founder of Never Say Die Bourbon, shares five craft distilleries that are worth a try in 2026.

RD1 Distillery, Kentucky

Located in Kentucky, RD1 Distillery has made a name for itself since its establishment in 2020. With Double Platinum honors for their 10-year-old Brazilian Amburana Finished Bourbon at the 2025 Ascot Awards, they push the boundaries of traditional bourbon production with innovative wood finishes. Luftman states, "A Double Platinum Ascot win in 2025 proves that their Amburana finished Bourbon is truly special."

Frank August, Kentucky

Frank August is a small-batch non-distilling producer also based in Kentucky. They have garnered significant acclaim, including the highest score for American whiskey at the 2025 International Wine and Spirits Competition. Luftman notes the brand’s elegant packaging and consistent blending as key factors in their success. “Frank August has quickly cemented its spot as one of the finest brands in the world,” he remarks.

White Peak Distillery, Derbyshire

Shifting attention to England, White Peak Distillery stands out as an emerging distiller in Derbyshire. Winning Gold at the International Wine and Spirits Competition 2025 for their Bourbon Barrel Single Malt Whiskey, the distillery emphasizes the rich industrial heritage of its location with both the design of their bottles and the quality of their spirits. “Their ‘Wireworks’ single-malt offerings earn international awards nearly every year,” explains Luftman.

O.K.I. Bourbon

O.K.I. Bourbon, which signifies Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana, excels in older-aged bourbon production. This non-distilling producer received accolades at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition for its exceptional whiskeys. Luftman points out that “It’s a shame their renowned offerings aren’t easier to find, but those who do find them are rewarded with excellent whiskey every time.”

Starlight Distillery

Last on Luftman’s list is Starlight Distillery, located in Indiana. Known for its innovative products, including flavored whiskeys, Starlight won three Double Golds at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, showcasing their Mizunara Reserve as Best Overall Bourbon. "Their flavored whiskeys involving blackberry, peach, etc. consistently win incredible awards as well," adds Luftman.

Final Thoughts

The emergence of craft distilleries is reshaping the whiskey landscape, offering exciting opportunities for innovation in flavor and technique. As consumers increasingly discover these newcomers, the overall quality and standards of the industry are also improving. This is an exhilarating time for whiskey enthusiasts to experiment and broaden their palates.

With a rich caramel flavor and bits of toasted coconut, these toasted coconut rum balls combine the essence of multiple delightful desserts into one. Evoking memories of coconut macaroons and sticky toffee pudding, their chewy texture is complemented by a bittersweet chocolate exterior. The secret lies in the browned butter and toasted coconut, which give depth and richness to every bite.

Ingredients

• 5 medium Medjool dates, pitted
• Boiling water, as needed
• 4 tablespoons cold salted butter, cubed (plus 2 additional tablespoons for topping)
• 1/2 packed cup light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons white or dark rum (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1 1/4 cups chopped bittersweet chocolate

Instructions

1. Prep the Dates: Place dates in a heatproof bowl, covering them with boiling water. Let them sit for 5 minutes, then drain and cool before chopping into a paste.

2. Brown the Butter: In a saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until it becomes fragrant and browned. Pour the brown butter into a heatproof bowl.

3. Combine Ingredients: Mix in brown sugar, rum (if using), salt, and a couple of tablespoons of the reserved date water into the brown butter. Incorporate the chopped dates.

4. Toast the Coconut: Wipe the saucepan clean and toast the shredded coconut over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes until golden brown.

5. Mix the Coconut with the Mixture: Combine the toasted coconut with the sugar mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.

6. Form Balls: Wet your hands and form tablespoon-sized balls from the mixture, placing them on parchment paper. Freeze for 5-10 minutes.

7. Coat with Chocolate: Melt the chopped chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl until nearly melted, then mix in the remaining butter until smooth. Dip each chilled coconut ball into the chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.

8. Chill and Serve: Return coated balls to parchment and drizzle with leftover chocolate, if desired. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to set before serving. Enjoy them stored in the fridge where they’ll last up to two weeks.

Tips

For a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the rum with additional reserved date water from step 1.

These delightful rum balls make for a perfect treat at parties or as a sweet indulgence for yourself!

Jack Daniel’s is a prominent whiskey brand known for its extensive product line, including a triple mash and various single-barrel expressions. Despite its popularity, Jack Daniel’s has historically not released a bourbon-rye blend, unlike brands such as High West and Knob Creek that have successfully merged the characteristics of bourbon and rye. While Jack Daniel’s is technically a Tennessee whiskey and not branded as a bourbon, it fulfills the legal criteria to be considered one.

For whiskey enthusiasts eager to recreate this experience at home, a blend of Jack Daniel’s Bonded Rye and the Single Barrel Barrel Proof Tennessee Whiskey offers a unique solution. The Bonded Rye features a flavor profile including baking spices, black pepper, and citrus, while the Single Barrel Barrel Proof offers notes of caramel, banana, vanilla, and charred oak. This combination promises a rich and complex whiskey that balances sweet bourbon flavors with the zest of rye.

To experiment with this blend, start with a clean decanter and mix the two whiskies according to personal preference. Once combined, allow the mixture to sit for a few days to enable the flavors to meld before tasting. This method resembles the concept of an infinity bottle, allowing for a creative exploration of whiskey flavors until a well-suited profile is achieved.

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