Liquor-articles 1905

Stranahan’s Distillery has made a significant mark at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, securing an impressive seven Gold and Double Gold medals. Notably, their Snowflake Redcloud Peak was honored as a Best of Class finalist in the American Single Malt category. The distillery, based in Denver, is renowned for creating award-winning American single malts, and their limited-release Snowflake has gained a cult following, with fans eagerly camping out to secure a bottle each winter.

Head Blender Justin Aden, who joined Stranahan’s in May 2022, led the crafting of this year’s Snowflake release. His approach focused on fruit-forward flavors without the influence of peat or smoke, incorporating a blend of fortified wines, including Sherry, Port, and Sauternes, into the barrels. This meticulous process involved tasting hundreds of barrels to finalize the components that would create the luscious palette of Redcloud Peak.

The aging process in the Colorado climate, with its dry conditions, leads to a unique flavor profile. As the rickhouses evaporate more water than alcohol, the spirit’s concentration increases over time, resulting in whiskeys that retain bright fruit characteristics.

Aden emphasized the importance of Stranahan’s legacy in craft distilling, highlighting the distillery’s refusal to source whiskey and its commitment to innovation over the years. The loyalty from customers, some of whom have attended every Snowflake release for a decade, is a testament to the distillery’s dedication to quality and excellence.

In addition to the Snowflake, Stranahan’s lineup performed remarkably well, with their Mountain Angel 10-Year and Mountain Angel 12-Year also achieving Double Gold medals. It’s clear that Stranahan’s is not just about its limited releases; the entire product range showcases their commitment to high-quality, craft whiskey.

A data engineer, Alexsandras Bogdanovic (37), faced a Dublin court for a violent incident where he verbally abused a shop employee and vandalized the store. The abuse, which included racist insults against the worker’s Asian heritage, occurred during an initial altercation. In a subsequent incident days later, Bogdanovic returned to the shop, where he used vodka bottles to smash the front door, causing over €2,000 in damage. Store staff had to close the door for safety, protecting themselves and customers from his aggression.

For more information, visit the related topics: Dublin Courts and Andrew Phelan.

A woman from Lawrence was arrested on Sunday afternoon after allegedly providing vodka to the dogs of another resident. The situation unfolded near the intersection of 24th Street and Ousdahl Road, where a dispute arose over the woman refusing to leave someone else’s porch, according to Lawrence Police spokeswoman Laura McCabe.

Upon the arrival of the police, officers attempted to persuade the woman to leave, but she resisted, seemingly under the influence and making remarks about the resident’s dogs. Even after multiple requests to vacate the premises, she remained unresponsive to law enforcement.

Investigating further, the officers asked the resident to present the dogs. The resident complied, showing two young bully mixes that appeared healthy and sociable. However, as the police delved deeper into the incident, they discovered evidence suggesting that the woman had poured vodka into her hands and encouraged the dogs to drink it. This led to her arrest on suspicion of animal cruelty and trespassing.

Read more about the incident.

Green River Distilling Co., the 10th oldest licensed distillery in Kentucky, is set to launch a limited edition bourbon in honor of the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary. The whiskey, seasoned with 77 percent corn, 14 percent rye, and 9 percent malted barley, will have an Army Strong 111.1 Proof and will be priced at $49.99. Its release date is slated for June 14th, with availability extending throughout the year in select stores, military bases, and online.

Col. (ret.) Mark Erwin, the CEO of Lofted Spirits, Green River’s parent company, remarked, "This whiskey is a salute to 250 years of courage, commitment and sacrifice," emphasizing the pride of celebrating the Army and all who have served.

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this bourbon will benefit various charitable organizations, including The Special Operations Warrior Foundation and USA Cares, aimed at supporting soldiers and their families. More details can be found at army250.greenriverwhiskey.com.

Great Lakes Distillery has announced the upcoming release of its highly limited Still & Oak Smoked Malt Whiskey, set for noon on Wednesday, May 21. This whiskey is crafted from a single barrel, producing only 170 bottles, with the first 100 packaged in complimentary wooden gift boxes. Each bottle is priced at $89, and given the limited availability, they are expected to sell quickly.

The whiskey is a seven-year-old straight American single malt distilled from 100% malted barley, aged in used American oak barrels. Tasting notes suggest a bouquet of toffee, toasted almond, and dried fruit on the nose, while the palate reveals flavors of caramel, dark chocolate, black cherry, and a hint of spice. The finish of the whiskey is characterized by oak, vanilla, and a subtle smokiness.

Customers can only purchase this 90 proof whiskey at Great Lakes’ tasting rooms located in Milwaukee and West Allis. The introduction of American Single Malt as an official category by the federal government in December 2024 is noted by GLD founder Guy Rehorst, who has been producing malt whiskey for over 15 years, prior to this release.

For more information, visit Great Lakes Distillery.

In the high-octane world of Formula One, where danger, rivalry, and pressure reign, there exists a contrasting reality—an extravagant life filled with luxury yachts, supermodels, and wild partying. The 1990s were particularly notorious for F1 celebrations, with drivers known to indulge wholeheartedly after a race.

Ex-Red Bull boss Richard Hopkins recalled a shocking incident involving Mercedes driver Mika Hakkinen, who allegedly downed an entire bottle of vodka in one night following a race. Hopkins remarked, "Hakkinen drank a bottle of vodka in one Sunday night. I thought he might have a little sip or a shot or something, but to down a bottle of vodka? He wouldn’t turn up the next day…. he was extraordinarily hungover." This particular episode supposedly occurred during the 1998 or 1999 season during a post-race function, where Hakkinen’s escapades often led to more than just fun.

Michael Schumacher, often seen as a ruthless competitor on the track, showcased a different side at after-parties. Friends revealed that he was easily swayed by party-loving teammates like Eddie Irvine. Hopkins noted, "Eddie could lead anybody astray… if somebody had won a race or a championship, then he was going to be in among it and quite happily buying the champagne and vodka." Schumacher, known for his serious demeanor, enjoyed unleashing his playful side, often engaging in lighthearted antics such as ripping off his shirt during celebrations.

Hopkins provided insight into how the drivers decompressed, recalling tales of Schumacher’s revelry on rooftops and gatherings at a log cabin in Suzuka after races. He humorously pointed out that even racers like Ayrton Senna found ways to unwind, leading to stories that would remain untold. Another driver and commentator, Christian Danner, affirmed that Schumacher preferred simpler pleasures, often enjoying cigars alongside Bacardi and Coke in the neutral space of Bernie Ecclestone’s motorhome.

However, the vibrant party scene isn’t the whole story of Schumacher’s life. In December 2013, he suffered a devastating skiing accident, resulting in severe brain injuries. Initially placed in a medically induced coma for recovery, his condition became a closely guarded secret as his family strived to maintain privacy amid growing concern and speculation.

Now, more than a decade since that tragic event, Michael Schumacher remains largely out of the public eye, as updates on his health are infrequent and tightly controlled by his family. While once a beacon of thrilling entertainment, his life now serves as a reminder of the fragility hidden beneath the glitz and glamour of the F1 world.

World Whiskey Day, celebrated on the third Saturday in May, marks a special occasion honoring whiskey, an ancient spirit that has transcended borders and gained global popularity. The origins of whiskey are often debated, with many enthusiasts believing that the Irish were the first to distill it. The first documented record dates back to 1405 in Ireland, outpacing Scotland’s first references by 89 years. The oldest licensed distillery, Bushmills, has been producing whiskey since 1608.

Today, whiskey is produced in various countries, including the U.S., Japan, and Canada, with different styles and production methods. Tim Bradstreet, co-owner of Forward/Slash Distillery in Winter Park, emphasizes that whiskey is primarily made from grain and aged in barrels, but there’s a multitude of subcategories influenced by the grains used and the aging process.

For instance, bourbon—considered distinctively American—must be made from corn and aged in new oak barrels, setting it apart from Irish and Scotch whiskies. The appreciation for whiskey has grown, and many bars now offer extensive selections, such as Raglan Road’s 80-90 varieties, which includes unique labels from famous distilleries.

This weekend, Raglan Road is celebrating World Whiskey Day by offering a unique tasting experience called "The Ring of Firewater." For $40, participants can sample three premium whiskies: Ireland’s Midleton Very Rare Vintage, Japan’s Yamazaki 12-year, and Scotland’s Macallan 18-year, making it an excellent opportunity for novices and aficionados alike to explore high-quality options without the hefty price tag usually associated with fine whiskies.

Additionally, establishments like Forward/Slash Distillery feature specialty products, such as their award-winning whiskey, Patience, which is a peated malt blend aged in cherry casks. For those new to whiskey, tasting rooms provide an inviting atmosphere where staff members are ready to share their knowledge, ensuring everyone finds something they enjoy.

As World Whiskey Day approaches, it’s not just a celebration of the spirit itself, but also an invitation to engage with its rich history and diverse offerings across the globe. Whether one prefers it neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, the enduring appeal of whiskey inspires both casual drinkers and serious connoisseurs to enjoy the vast array of flavors and traditions that come with this beloved beverage.

It’s a transition day at Surfside headquarters in Kensington, as employees get ready to move to a new 10,000-square-foot space in Trevose. The company packed up while leaving behind remnants of their vibrant past at the original office, including an old mini fridge and a nearly empty whiteboard with brainstorming ideas. With 227 employees, the surge follows an explosive growth trajectory for Surfside, which broke into the market with its canned vodka-infused iced tea in early 2022. What started as a modest venture became a nationwide sensation, leading to a stunning demand that far exceeded initial projections.

The trajectory of Surfside has been astronomical since its inception. They manufactured 200,000 cases in their first year, skyrocketing to 1.3 million the following year, and an astronomical 4.9 million just two years post-launch, marking them as the fastest-growing alcohol brand in the U.S. with remarkable annual growth of 378%. Surfside’s distribution now spans all 50 states and further reaches into the Caribbean.

Initially, the founding brothers, Clement and Zach Pappas and Matt and Bryan Quigley, planned for a 40,000-square foot facility to house production and distribution. However, as sales soared, it became clear that this would not suffice. Hence, they decided to maintain operations at their distillery and vodka bar while developing a new warehouse and distribution center for Surfside.

The journey of Stateside, Surfside’s parent company, started in 2013 with a makeshift distillation setup in a basement, growing steadily to a spacious and sophisticated distillery today. The foundational drive for creating Surfside stemmed from an intuitive observation about consumer trends, steering clear of carbonation and focusing on low-sugar options to cater to a health-conscious demographic. This strategic choice, combined with nimble production capabilities, propelled Surfside into the spotlight.

A critical breakthrough came when sports collaborations bolstered their visibility. The Philadelphia Eagles’ Super Bowl win and associated marketing efforts drove Surfside further into the public eye as fans celebrated with the brand. Their colorful branding, unique product offerings, and the ability to tap into local culture and trends established Surfside not just as another option but as a lifestyle choice among consumers, capturing attention across various venues, including major sports events.

Pappas and Quigley’s ambition doesn’t appear to wane despite past records of beverage brands that faded after initial success. They are keenly aware of upcoming trends while navigating through various seasonal demands and haven’t shied away from addressing challenges head-on. Their commitment is reflected in expanding partnerships with educational institutions and increasing production to meet surging demand. With plans for broader distribution and an ever-expanding flavor lineup, Surfside seems poised to maintain momentum.

As they settle into their new digs and strategize for the future, one thing is clear: the energy and vision driving Surfside forward are formidable. The team is eager to sustain and grow their market share in an ever-evolving landscape, transforming recognition into dominance. Surfside has not only made a mark but is on the radar to redefine the ready-to-drink category for the long haul.

For more information, visit Surfside and Stateside Vodka.

An exciting event is on the horizon for fans of Edgar Allan Poe as a pop-up speakeasy, themed around the esteemed author, is set to take place in Central New York. This unique experience will be hosted at The Historic Kallet Theater in Pulaski on June 5 and 6, featuring two separate 90-minute sessions each night.

Guests are invited to delve into the eerie tales of Poe, enjoying a "chilling cocktail experience" as they sip on creatively crafted drinks inspired by his notable works, including "The Tell-Tale Heart," "The Raven," "The Masque of the Red Death," and "The Black Cat."

Featured cocktails will include the Nevermore, a distinctive blend of black and gold with orange peach blossom vodka and secret spices, and the Pale Blue Eye, combining blueberry vodka and fresh lemon juice. The event promises to be an immersive journey into Poe’s macabre world under the guidance of knowledgeable historians and a skilled mixologist.

Tickets are priced at $49.25 and are available for those aged 21 and older through Eventbrite. This speakeasy represents a singular opportunity in New York state for 2025, part of a broader tour that features more than 40 dates across various locations.

Poe, renowned for his mastery in the realms of horror and detective fiction, has left an indelible mark on literature, influencing countless stories and cultural references, including television shows and the name of the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens.

For further details on this immersive experience, you can visit edgarallanpoebar.com. Don’t miss your chance to step into Poe’s darkly enchanting universe!

When Mikael Blomkvist is shot in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Lisbeth Salander quickly comes to his aid with a needle and dental floss, but first, she douses them in Swedish vodka for sterilization. While this scene may seem dramatic, it reflects a common, albeit questionable, approach to wound care.

Proper wound management is crucial for all injuries, highlighting that not every small cut requires a trip to the emergency room. Paying careful attention to the wound type and how it occurred can significantly influence the healing process.

Once skin is breached, biological processes activate to control bleeding and initiate healing. Platelets in the blood form clots to seal damaged vessels while white blood cells work to repair tissue. For optimal healing, it is important to bring the edges of a cut together using stitches, staples, or adhesive strips for larger wounds. In certain cases, specialized skin glue is an option.

Maintaining cleanliness and preventing infections are essential to healing. When bacteria infect a wound, they may obstruct healing and allow for further complications. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, heat, pain, or pus, and these symptoms should prompt immediate medical attention.

Minor wounds should be kept covered with a clean dressing to prevent contamination. Change dressings regularly and use antiseptic creams as necessary. Once a scab forms, typically within a few days, it’s acceptable to let the wound breathe exposed to the air as long as it remains clean and dry.

Some wounds, however, are more serious and require professional intervention, such as deep cuts or those that won’t close. Contaminated wounds may require tetanus treatment, and significant trauma may necessitate X-rays to check for foreign objects.

Improvised Wound Treatments

A variety of odd and dangerous DIY methods exist for treating wounds, many of which are best avoided:

1. Gaffer Tape: While great for household repairs, gaffer tape can irritate the skin and trap moisture in wounds, risking infection. Instead, medical micropore tape should be used to secure dressings without direct contact with the wound.

2. Honey: Although honey has shown antimicrobial properties, only medical-grade honey should be applied to open wounds due to potential immune reactions.

3. Super Glue: While some resort to super glue for a fast fix, it is not recommended for wound closure due to potential tissue damage and eye irritation. Only medical-grade adhesive should be used, ideally by healthcare professionals.

4. Fishing Tackle: Using fishing supplies as makeshift sutures is dangerous and should never be attempted.

5. Grout: Applying grout to a wound may seem appealing for its sealing properties, but its alkaline nature can cause severe chemical burns and introduce bacteria, leading to serious infection.

In conclusion, while many unconventional methods might seem tempting for quick fixes, they often do more harm than good. The best approach remains to assess the severity of a wound and seek professional help when in doubt. Always prioritize proper wound care practices to ensure safe and effective healing.