Liquor-articles 1905

This Father’s Day, consider giving a unique gift—a bottle of whiskey associated with one of television’s most infamous dads. Frank Gallagher, the character portrayed by William H. Macy on the show Shameless, is not someone most would consider a model parent. However, the William H. Macy Reserve Straight Rye Whiskey from Woody Creek Distillers is a high-quality spirit that deserves recognition, despite its connection to such a flawed character.

Macy, who joined Woody Creek Distillers in 2018, has taken a hands-on approach with the brand. He’s not just a celebrity face; he actively participates in the whiskey-making process, helping to select the barrels and holding events to promote the product. His involvement stems from a personal connection; he and his wife are neighbors of the distillery founders, Patrick and Mary Scanlan.

The William H. Macy Reserve is a bottled in bond, 10-year-old straight rye whiskey that sells for $199 and can be found online, at the distillery in Basalt, Colorado, and at select retailers. Macy has a strong belief in the quality of his whiskey, stating, "I know there are other great spirits, but I am saying there are none better."

When asked if he would share the whiskey with Frank Gallagher, Macy humorously acknowledged Frank’s terrible parenting but noted that the character believed in celebrating life’s moments. This whiskey fits right into such occasions.

With its ten years aging in barrels, the rye showcases a rich profile, including flavors influenced by oak, along with fruity and spicy notes. It offers aromas of clove and cinnamon, with a palate featuring apples, dried fruit, nuts, and honey, culminating in a finish that hints at spice and mild smoke. It’s an enjoyable sipper straight or on the rocks, and it also shines in classic cocktails.

In a light-hearted admission, Macy declared that Jim Anderson, from Father Knows Best, embodies the ideal father figure, contrasting heavily with Frank Gallagher. For those who appreciate good whiskey, a bottle of William H. Macy Reserve Straight Rye offers a delightful way to celebrate Father’s Day—preferably with a shared toast.

At the 2025 International Bartender Spirits Awards, two vodkas have achieved top honors, recognized by America’s leading bartenders as the best in the world. Angry Giraffe Premium Vodka was awarded Vodka of the Year, while Verità Vodka Italiana was named Best Spirit by Value. Both of these vodkas are celebrated for their quality and craftsmanship, having garnered numerous accolades in international spirit competitions.

Angry Giraffe Premium Vodka embodies the spirit of South Africa mixed with the energy of New York. This vodka is produced in small batches at Twin Stills Moonshine Distillery in Speonk, New York, using locally sourced grains. Distilled four times, Angry Giraffe is characterized by its crystal-clear appearance and a clean aroma that carries subtle hints of grain and sweetness. On the palate, it offers a smooth and creamy texture with a balanced hint of sweetness and a peppery note, leading to a long, crisp finish that lingers with notes of vanilla.

On the other hand, Verità Vodka Italiana hails from San Pietro di Feletto in northeastern Italy. Crafted by the multi-generational Distilleria dell’Alpe, this vodka is made from 100% Italian wheat and pure mountain spring water sourced from the Alps. The meticulous process involves three cycles of distillation followed by a final distillation in an antique wood-fired bain-marie still, which adds unique character. It has a clean and crisp nose with minerality, a creamy texture on the palate, and a refreshing finish with a smooth aftertaste.

The International Bartender Spirits Awards highlights the excellence in the spirits industry, focusing on quality, innovation, and craftsmanship. With their competitive pricing, both Angry Giraffe Premium Vodka and Verità Vodka Italiana are recommended for inclusion in home bars, offering exceptional taste and authenticity.

The owners of Okinawa Japanese Cuisine are set to launch a new dining destination in Denver’s Colfax Avenue, named Ma’s Kitchen Dumplings & Noodles. This establishment will take over the space formerly held by Rolling Pin Pizza, following its abrupt closure last year. The restaurant aims to offer a menu centered around noodles and dumplings with a Chinese focus, expanding the culinary options in the area.

Formerly, Rolling Pin Pizza had succeeded the popular Tacos Tequila Whiskey, which had been a neighborhood staple for over a decade. Kevin Morrison, the previous owner of both establishments, decided to sell the restaurant’s assets and relocate to Calgary, Canada, to be closer to family. He remarked that the taco and pizza markets in that part of Denver had become oversaturated.

Xi Yong Zheng, the owner of Okinawa, will head the new venture. According to Alan Cheng, a chef at Okinawa and spokesperson for Zheng, Ma’s Kitchen is expected to open in late August or early September. The kitchen will be led by Zheng’s brother, Xi Nuan Zheng, who is gaining experience from noodle and dumpling shops in China.

This new establishment is well-timed, as it seeks to fill a niche in the neighborhood’s dining landscape that hasn’t been offered before.

For more information, visit Ma’s Kitchen Dumplings & Noodles here.

In this month’s edition of Rum Music reviewed by Jennifer Lucy Allan, a captivating blend of sound poetry, unique instrumentals, and imaginative themes create a rich auditory experience. The narrative echoes the contemplative musings of prominent poets, with lines that resonate deep within.

The column delves into an eclectic array of offerings, moving away from the raw guitar sounds that have characterized previous editions. Instead, it embraces an experimental approach with sound poetry, angelic vowel utterances, quirky electronics, and even a collection of recordings featuring water droplets.

Noteworthy mentions include John M. Bennett’s Blanksmanship, characterized by poetic narratives and the interplay of shakuhachi and flute sounds, bringing a literary essence. The duo Jean-Marie Mercimek offers a unique auditory collage in Dans Le Camion De Marguerite Duras, blending sung/spoken French texts with unconventional keyboard sounds.

Another intriguing insight comes from Los Pélieu Lovers, who weave a poetic narrative inspired by French Beat poet Claude Pélieu, infusing their music with elements of spoken word and atmospheric instrumentals. Crystabel Efemena Riley’s live work impresses with visceral percussive experimentation, capturing the energetic response of a live audience.

Kasai takes a more whimsical approach with his high-octane minyo sounds, which revolve around everyday themes infused with an unorthodox charm. The various artists’ compilation Tsapiky! Modern Music From Southwest Madagascar energizes the soundscape with vibrant rhythms and local melodies, showcasing the cultural richness of tsapiky music.

Laura Steenberge’s Piriforms elevates the listener with ethereal choral harmonies that explore medieval singing traditions, offering a meditative experience that underscores the complexities of sound and space.

Closing the narrative is Masaaki Takano’s Shizukutachi, an innovative work that merges natural soundscapes with a minimal techno aesthetic, inviting listeners to reflect on the subtle beauty of water sounds transformed into musical movements.

This collection serves not only as a diverse sample of contemporary experimental music but as a reminder of the poetic and emotional power of sound in all its forms.

Nguyen Dinh Tuan Viet, famously known as the “King of World Spirits,” has set a remarkable record by becoming the owner of the oldest known bottles of whisky, rum, cognac, and armagnac. This achievement makes him the first collector in history to have all four major aged spirits recognized by Guinness World Records.

With over 20 Guinness records to his name, Mr. Viet has cultivated an extraordinary vintage spirits collection, most recently adding an 1843 bottle of Glenlivet, recognized as the oldest whisky in existence. His journey into collecting spirits began as a hobby but soon transformed into a passion for preserving history through these liquid treasures.

Mr. Viet shared insights into his motivations for collecting: “For me, collecting isn’t about ostentation; it’s my way of honoring the past, preserving the essence, and spreading the value, persistently seeking out the oldest and rarest editions from around the globe.” Each bottle in his collection symbolizes a slice of history, as he regards them as time capsules carrying stories from the past.

His collection includes a remarkable range of rare bottles, such as a 1772 rum and a 1696 cognac. Each acquisition is not merely for display; it embodies his commitment to safeguarding distillation history. The newest addition, The Old Glenlivet 1843, first surfaced in 1970 but vanished for years before being rediscovered by esteemed collectors, highlighting its significance and rarity.

The Glenlivet itself has a storied history, being the first distillery in the Speyside region to receive an official license in 1824. Mr. Viet’s acquisition process speaks to the importance of preservation, as the previous collectors sought a custodian who would appreciate the historical value of such a bottle.

For Mr. Viet, collecting has evolved from a casual interest into a life’s work, as he reflects on the many rare bottles he has acquired over time. Among the four oldest intact bottles he now possesses, the highlights include:

• Jules Robin 1696 – the oldest intact Cognac bottle, aged 329 years.
• Old Glenlivet 1843 – the oldest whisky bottle, aged 182 years.
• Armagnac 1830 – the oldest Armagnac bottle, aged 195 years.
• Rhum Ancienne Année 1772 – the oldest Rum bottle, aged 253 years.

All these extraordinary bottles are officially recognized by Guinness World Records, cementing Mr. Viet’s status as a dedicated custodian of spirit history. He describes each bottle as a living chapter, reminding us of the importance of preserving these unique moments from the past.

Whiskey Myers, the Southern rock band from Palestine, Texas, has released a new single titled "Tailspin." This track is the second offering from their upcoming album, Whomp Whack Thunder, set to launch on September 26th through their label, Wiggy Thump Records. The album is produced by Jay Joyce, who has previously worked with notable artists such as Eric Church and Ashley McBryde.

Lead guitarist John Jeffers expressed that the band approached the recording sessions without specific goals in mind, allowing their inspirations to direct the outcome. He noted, "We didn’t set out to chase a specific sound—we set out to make a Whiskey Myers record." This freedom in creativity has resulted in what Jeffers describes as a "fearless" album that reflects their journey and the challenges they’ve faced.

The new single "Tailspin" opens with an electrifying guitar riff and follows the story of a man grappling with his self-destructive tendencies. He recalls a brief period of stability but ultimately decides to embrace chaos over conformity, hinting at a life led astray by vices.

The lyrics of "Tailspin" feature a gritty perspective, showcasing how quickly one can spiral downward while yearning for relief. Fans who attended the Tailgates N’ Tallboys were given an early preview of the track and responded with excitement, praising its upbeat energy and impressive instrumentals.

In addition to the release of their new single, Whiskey Myers is gearing up for an extensive tour this year, titled "What We Were Born To Do Tour," starting in Des Moines, Iowa, on June 6. The band will perform at various venues across the U.S., ending the summer with live shows in multiple cities before moving into the fall.

For more about Whiskey Myers and their latest updates, visit their official site or follow them on social media.

Washington D.C – Republican Senator Bill Cassidy from Louisiana has introduced a bill that aims to permanently establish the increase in federal excise tax reimbursement for rum imported from Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

This measure represents a significant potential financial benefit for the Puerto Rican government, with projections indicating it could secure tens of millions of dollars annually. The reimbursement increase is part of federal efforts to support the local rum industry, which is crucial for Puerto Rico’s economy.

For added context, this legislative proposal follows previous discussions about the importance of the rum tax on maintaining the island’s economic stability and supporting local jobs within the sector.

The bill’s introduction marks a key moment in the ongoing dialogue about enhancing economic benefits for Puerto Rico and demonstrates legislative commitment to ensuring sustained support for its rum production.

Altamura Distilleries has announced the launch of its premium vodka in the UK, available for purchase at Master of Malt for £32.50. This vodka, with an impressive alcohol by volume (abv) of 43%, is crafted from 100% Altamura wheat, a heritage grain that has been cultivated for over two millennia in the Puglia region of Italy.

The meticulous distillation process enhances the unique flavors of the wheat, resulting in subtle notes of aniseed, lemon zest, and pepper, reflective of the Italian landscape. Altamura Vodka boasts a distinctive bottle design featuring a lioness symbolizing strength and pride, a nod to the heritage of Puglia. The three stripes on the bottle represent the vibrant elements of the region—sun, sea, and earth.

Frank Grillo, the founder of Altamura Distilleries, expressed his enthusiasm for this new spirit, describing it as a celebration of life that is both strong and elegant. He invites vodka aficionados to explore the exceptional taste and values represented by the brand. Altamura Vodka aims to captivate discerning consumers looking for unique experiences in their culinary adventures.

Are all types of alcohol equally harmful, or are there some that are less detrimental? This is a question many health-conscious individuals grapple with when contemplating drinks.

The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies alcohol as a toxic substance and a Group 1 carcinogen. Even small amounts can raise blood pressure and heart disease risks. Red wine is often touted as the least harmful choice, but moderation is crucial for any potential benefits.

Studies, including those from the American Heart Association and Harvard, suggest that moderate consumption may benefit heart health, such as raising HDL ("good") cholesterol levels. However, many of these studies have limitations, often relying on self-reported data, which can be skewed.

Dr. Swapnil Sharma emphasizes that no alcohol is considered "safe" in excess. It can harm liver cells and lead to more severe health issues like fatty liver disease and cirrhosis. Notably, alcohol is linked to at least seven cancer types, as noted by the WHO.

Given this, when it comes to choosing a drink, the context matters. Experts have weighed in on which types are "healthier." Dr. Rajesh Jaria recommends drinks with lower alcohol content, such as vodka or light rum, over darker spirits. Red wine is often cited as the best option, due to its antioxidant content, with one glass a day for women and two for men being the suggested maximum. Excessive drinking negates any protective effects.

Conversely, flavored spirits, sugary cocktails, and high-proof liquors are considered the worst choices. These drinks not only pose a higher risk for liver damage but also elevate blood sugar and exacerbate digestive issues. Dr. Manish Dodmani warns that country liquor with high alcohol content is particularly harmful.

To make healthier alcohol choices, consider the alcohol by volume (ABV), aiming for lower percentages, as well as avoiding added sugars and artificial flavors. In summary, while no alcohol can be deemed "healthy," some options are less harmful than others. Moderation is key, and the best choice is always to stay hydrated with water.

For more detailed health insights related to alcohol consumption, visit the World Health Organization.

Ten vodkas have received Gold Outstanding medals at the 2025 International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC), competing for the coveted Vodka Trophy. This year’s IWSC featured over 12,000 alcoholic beverages evaluated by a panel of judges through rigorous blind tasting. To win a medal, each vodka had to score at least 98 out of 100 points.

Vodka, often overlooked in favor of spirits like gin and whiskey, has a wide range of premium offerings showcasing various flavor profiles depending on the base ingredients used, from rye to potato.

Gold Medal Winners

1. Witchmark Distillery Single Origin English Vodka

   • This creamy vodka, made from local barley in Wiltshire, England, offers exceptional smoothness and has gained acclaim for its rich flavors.
   • Judges’ Notes: Rich and malty with cocoa and mint notes, leading to a warming finish.

2. Eimverk Distillery Kría Single Grain Vodka

   • Crafted from Icelandic barley and pure spring water, this unique vodka has not been released yet but is highly anticipated.
   • Judges’ Notes: Fragrant with sesame pastry and sweet cream cheese, rich in honey and grain flavors.

3. Adnams, Southwold Longshore Triple Malt Vodka

   • This vodka is distilled from a blend of barley, wheat, and oats, providing a creamy texture with butterscotch notes.
   • Judges’ Notes: Creamy with floral notes, offering strawberry and apple pie flavors.

4. Belvedere Vodka 10 Vodka

   • Known for its smoothness, this vodka is made from Dankowskie Diamond Rye, embodying luxury and purity.
   • Judges’ Notes: Aromas of caramel and spice with a peppery finish.

5. Laplandia Bilberry Vodka

   • Infused with bilberry, this vibrant vodka has a unique sweet-tart profile, crafted using pure artesian waters.
   • Judges’ Notes: Fruity with wild blueberries and sweet vanilla, offering a refreshing finish.

6. Laplandia Cloudberry Vodka

   • A distinctive vodka infused with rare cloudberries, delivering a sweet and aromatic flavor profile.
   • Judges’ Notes: Sweet orange marmalade notes with a captivating sweetness from clove and honey.

7. Hawkridge Distillers Sexy Fish Vodka

   • Created in collaboration with London’s Sexy Fish restaurant, this vodka emphasizes smoothness and purity.
   • Judges’ Notes: Floral and fruity aroma with creamy hints and crisp citrus on the palate.

8. Eckerts Wacholder Brennerei GmbH Superb 5 X Distilled Vodka

   • A local gem from Germany, this small-batch vodka impresses with its mineral notes and creamy vanilla.
   • Judges’ Notes: A harmonious blend with caramel undertones and a refreshing finish.

9. Eckerts Wacholder Brennerei GmbH Korol Black Vodka

   • Another limited release from Eckerts, this vodka features sweet wheat and creamy icing sugar flavors.
   • Judges’ Notes: A delightful bouquet with a rounded finish.

10. Absolut Hunni Vodka

    • A new addition from Absolut, crafted with Swedish wheat and natural honey flavorings, delivering a fresh honey profile.
    • Judges’ Notes: Sweet and floral with a lingering warmth.

These outstanding vodkas highlight the versatility of this often-underappreciated spirit, showcasing a range of flavors and styles worthy of recognition.

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