Liquor-articles 1851

Dolph Lundgren is making a significant splash in the spirits industry with his new vodka brand, "Hard Cut Vodka," which launched recently in the U.S. Lundgren describes this vodka as a bold newcomer to the premium alcohol market, aiming to stand out in a space he feels has become stagnant. Sourced from Idaho potatoes and rocky mountain water, the vodka is bottled at 90 proof, offering a creamy mouthfeel and smooth finish with flavor notes of green apple, fennel, and butterscotch.

The actor has been developing this project for over five years, overseeing every detail from ingredient selection to branding and even receiving bartending training. He sought to create a vodka with character, emphasizing its high quality and versatility, whether sipped chilled or in cocktails.

Lundgren’s transition from Hollywood action star to spirits entrepreneur feels natural to him. He draws parallels between the intensity of his film career and his approach to crafting vodka, defining Hard Cut Vodka by its strength and refinement, qualities he embodies himself.

Expressing his vision, Lundgren shared that Hard Cut Vodka is not just a product but also a reflection of his life philosophy. He sees this venture as a potential legacy, hoping it inspires others to pursue boldness in their lives. The name "Hard Cut" is a nod to filmmaking terminology, symbolizing progress and determination, much like Lundgren’s career trajectory.

This vodka represents a new challenge for him, combining creativity and entrepreneurship in a way he hasn’t explored before. He aims for Hard Cut Vodka to resonate with consumers, aspiring to make it a celebrated name in the spirits category.

The Mondial du Rhum event marked its second edition from February 12-14, 2025, at the Palais Brongniart in Paris, and was themed "Humans at the Heart of the Rum Ecosystem." This year’s summit went beyond merely tasting rum, incorporating significant cultural experiences and fostering essential business connections.

The event was attended by over 300 industry professionals and connoisseurs, with buyers showing a pronounced interest, particularly in the mornings. This trend contributed to increased sales, especially in the event’s store, highlighting the appeal of exotic rum products. Patrick Loger, the organizer, emphasized the event’s growth into a vital international platform for the spirits industry.

Culturally, the summit featured various performances, including a fashion show by the haute couture house Zaady and musical interpretations from artists like Axelle Saint-Cirel. In addition, the "Théâtre des Saveurs" tasting area, arranged by Gault & Millau, allowed attendees to sample different rum products and discover new creations.

The summit received support from several institutional partners, including the General Direction of French Overseas Territories and Business France, which collaborated to highlight exhibitor expertise. Furthermore, a new initiative called "spiritourism" was launched by Atout France to promote tourism linked to the spirits industry.

Additionally, producers aligned with the summit’s theme formed a group called Ecorum, focusing on promoting agricultural rum production and enhancing its representation. The event showcased the rum industry’s social and economic significance and alluded to its promising future.

For more details, visit the official site: Mondial du Rhum.

Rum is a vital component of any home bar, beloved for both sipping neat and as a base for cocktails. Here are five exceptional rums, recognized by the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC), that are essential for crafting perfect rum cocktails. Each of these premium selections is available in the U.S. and ranges in price from $40 to $180 per bottle, with tasting notes provided by the 2024 IWSC judging panel.

Foursquare Rum Distillery 14 YO Equipoise Port Cask Finish Rum

• ABV: 61%
• Price: $162
• Tasting Notes: The 2024 IWSC Rum of the Year, this rum achieved an impressive 99/100 points. It offers enticing aromas of leather and olive oil, transitioning into flavors of citrus peel, cinnamon, and dark chocolate with a lingering dry, tangy finish of caramel and banana bread.

2011 Foursquare Rum Distillery ‘Vintage’ Single Blended Rum

• ABV: 60%
• Price: $125
• Tasting Notes: This blend features a bold introduction of apricots and coconut leading to tropical flavors of dark chocolate and vanilla ice cream, culminating in a rich finish resembling treacle and tobacco.

Foursquare Rum Distillery Exceptional Cask Selection ‘Covenant’ 18 Year Old Single Blend Rum

• ABV: 58%
• Price: $178
• Tasting Notes: Aromas of toffee and tropical fruit open before revealing an oily vanilla richness, expertly balanced with toffee and caramel, ending with a flavorful finish of sawdust and coffee.

These aged rums, rich in depth and complexity, are perfect for classic cocktails. Consider using them in a rum Old Fashioned or a Mai Tai to elevate the drink’s overall complexity.

Phraya Deep Matured Gold Rum

• ABV: 40%
• Price: $61
• Tasting Notes: Hailing from Thailand, Phraya is celebrated for its blend of rums aged 6 to 12 years, presenting aromas of milk chocolate and dried stone fruit. The palate reveals caramel and chocolate, finishing with baking spices and coconut.

This rum shines in cocktails like a rum-based Negroni, where its sweetness balances the bitterness of Campari.

Desert Diamond Distillery, Gold Miner 11 YO Barrel Reserve

• ABV: 40%
• Price: $41
• Tasting Notes: This craft New Mexico rum features floral aromas of roses and violets paired with decadent chocolate. The palate is balanced with coffee and caramel, leading to a lingering tropical fruit finish.

Gold Miner rum is an excellent foundation for cocktails such as a Daiquiri or a Planter’s Punch, enhancing the drink’s complexity.

These five rums are not only exceptional in flavor but also widely available, making them perfect choices for any rum enthusiast—whether enjoyed straight or as a key ingredient in cocktails. For those looking to explore further, see The Caribbean’s Gold Medal Winning Rums and The World’s Best Rum According to the Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America.

Dr. Scott Hadland, chief of adolescent medicine at Mass General for Children, has raised concerns regarding the consumption of BORGs, or "Blackout Rage Gallons." This trend gained attention recently when Boston police confiscated multiple BORGs during the St. Patrick’s Day parade in South Boston.

Typically, a BORG contains a significant amount of alcohol—often vodka—mixed with water, caffeine, and electrolytes. The idea behind this concoction is to allow individuals to drink throughout the day while remaining hydrated and alert, ostensibly to prevent hangovers. However, the reality is that the alcohol content is alarmingly high. Some recipes recommend filling half a gallon jug with vodka, equating to around 30 to 40 shots of alcohol.

Dr. Hadland emphasized that even if consumed over a long period, this amount leads to serious health risks, including alcohol poisoning, which can result in mental status changes, loss of consciousness, and vomiting. Historically, there have been incidents—in 2021, about two dozen students at UMass were hospitalized after drinking BORGs all day.

Currently, this trend primarily involves college students, who may find the audacious idea of carrying a bright gallon jug appealing. Although most teenagers do not consume alcohol, those who do often try to conceal it, making BORGs less common among high school students. However, trends from college often trickle down to younger age groups, prompting concern regarding the potential spread of this hazardous practice.

For more information about responsible drinking, visit Mass General for Children.

A man playing with his dog on the beach in Margate, New Jersey, made a surprising discovery last month—eleven unopened whiskey bottles believed to be from the Prohibition era. The bottles, found near the Margate Pier by Austin Contegiacomo, piqued his interest when his sheepadoodle, Koda, unearthed a bottle from the sand.

Contegiacomo soon realized that the items were some form of liquor, with each bottle etched with the name "Lincoln Inn" and an image of a man on horseback. Looking for insights about their origins, he shared images of the bottles on the Whiskey and Bottle Digging subreddits. Enthusiastic commenters helped him trace the history of the Lincoln Inn brand, revealing it was produced in Montreal and packaged in bottles from Dominion Glass, one of Canada’s largest glass manufacturers.

The presence of these bottles amidst other beach debris suggested they may have been recently washed ashore, likely due to dredging activities offshore. The unique diamond mark on the bases of the bottles indicates they were produced after 1928, a time when illegal liquor smuggling was rampant along the New Jersey coast during Prohibition. With Margate’s proximity to Atlantic City—a notorious hub for smuggled liquor—the circumstances raised questions about whether the bottles were left behind by smugglers.

As unopened whiskey retains its quality indefinitely when stored properly, Contegiacomo decided to keep one bottle for himself, displaying it prominently in his kitchen. He shared the ten remaining bottles with friends, who, like him, understand the historical significance of the find. According to him, the allure lies in the bottles’ mystery and the story of their journey rather than consuming them.

"I think right now, nobody is willing to open it," he remarked, appreciating the history behind his remarkable discovery. Koda, his canine companion, received special treats for the exciting find, adding to their beach adventures.

Sommelier André Hueston Mack visits Trader Joe’s to evaluate a selection of liquors and spirits, assessing their quality versus their budget-friendly prices.

The review begins with Texas Vodka, priced at $10.99. Mack notes that it resembles Tito’s Vodka, but it’s actually bottled by Dynasty Spirits. He describes it as clean with a hint of cut grass, stating that it lacks a burning sensation.

Next is Trader Joe’s Versatile Spirit Vodka ($10.99), which is made from grapes instead of grain, resulting in a rustic taste. Although Mack finds it rough around the edges, he acknowledges its potential for experimentation.

The Kentucky Bourbon Straight Whiskey ($15.99) boasts the authentic qualities of a bourbon, thanks to its 51% corn content and aging requirements. Mack praises the notes of caramel and richness, appreciating its price point compared to other bourbons.

He then samples Tennessee Bourbon Whiskey at $14.99. While it claims to be produced in Tennessee following strict rules, Mack finds it underwhelming and prefers authentic brands like Jack Daniel’s.

Trader Joe’s Blanco Tequila ($19.99) passes muster as a raw spirit, showcasing good agave character without overwhelming heat. Mack deems it ideal for summer cocktails.

The review continues with Trader Joe’s Anejo Tequila ($22.99), which, despite its promise of oak aging, did not impress Mack with its subdued flavors.

Next, Espada Pequena Mescal ($21.99) offers a distinct smoky profile, although Mack notes an underlying chemical taste that detracts from the experience.

Trader Joe’s Blended Scotch Whiskey at $11.99 is dismissed as watered-down, reminiscent of family trickery with watered liquor. In contrast, the Highland Single Malt Scotch Whiskey Ten Year ($26.99), earns mixed reviews for not fully delivering on flavor commensurate with its age statement.

He finds Trader Joe’s Special Reserve Irish Whiskey ($15.99) to be easier to drink and offers great value but raises questions about its labeling transparency.

Mack evaluates Rum of the Gods White Rum ($8.99) and its darker counterpart, indicating both lack character, though he prefers the dark rum for its slight sweetness.

Finally, he expresses enthusiasm for Art of the Still Organic Gin ($15.99), which features strong botanical notes, further solidifying its place in cocktail creations.

Overall, Mack’s tasting notes reveal a mix of winners and forgettable spirits, reinforcing the notion that budget options don’t always equate to poor quality, especially at Trader Joe’s.

For more information, check out Trader Joe’s Spirits.

One vodka brand received a Platinum medal, while 23 others were awarded Gold Medals at the 2025 Beverage Testing Institute (BevTest) Vodka Judging. The list of winners includes a variety of historic brands, emerging craft producers, and innovative new expressions.

elit Vodka, 40% ABV, 750 ml. – $39

elit Vodka emerged as the top-rated vodka in the 2025 BevTest evaluation, achieving a score of 97/100 points. Produced in Latvia by the Stoli Group, elit Vodka is known for its remarkable smoothness and purity, credited to a sophisticated distillation and freeze-filtration process. This three-times distilled vodka offers a delicate aroma of grains and a soft, silky mouthfeel with minimal harshness. The BevTest Judging Panel noted that it features aromas of bread, dough, and subtle hints of almond, with flavors of honey-citrus peels and warm milk, making it ideal for sipping or as a high-end cocktail ingredient.

Zubrówka Bison Grass Flavored Vodka, 40% ABV, 750 ml. – $28

The highest-rated flavored vodka, Zubrówka Bison Grass Flavored Vodka, scored 95/100 points. Hailing from Poland, this vodka is infused with bison grass from the Białowieża Forest, which imparts a unique herbal and slightly sweet flavor. In North America, the vodka is artificially flavored to replicate the taste of bison grass due to import restrictions on Coumarin—a natural compound found in the grass. Zubrówka is celebrated for its smooth profile with tropical aromas of honey, tonka bean, and coconut, making it versatile for cocktails or enjoyed neat.

Gold Medal Winners

In addition to these, 19 other vodkas earned Gold Medals in the 2025 BevTest review. Noteworthy mentions include:

• Nykur Limited Edition Super Premium Organic Jaeger Corps Vodka, 42% ABV, 750 ml – $60: With a score of 95/100, it fragrance includes wet sidewalk and golden apple notes, and a clean palate with citrus and berry nuances.

• Yacht Life Vodka, 40% ABV, 750 ml – $69: Also scoring 95/100 points, it boasts baked sweet potato and pizza dough aromas and flavors reminiscent of vanilla pound cake.

• Chopin Family Reserve Extra Rare Young Potato Vodka, 40% ABV, 750 ml – $149: Characterized by aromas of toasted nut muffin and marmalade, it is known for its velvety texture.

• Hi Post Handmade American Vodka, 40% ABV, 750 ml – $15: This notably affordable vodka received acclaim for its clean and delicate profile, exhibiting flavors of lemon chai and white strawberry.

Other distinguished Gold Medalists include Ramsbury Single Estate Vodka, Rosa Vodka (rose-infused), and Robert’s Organic Vodka, all showcasing unique aromas and flavor profiles.

Jerald O’Kennard, President of the Beverage Testing Institute, highlighted the trend of naturally flavored vodkas, which are gaining popularity due to their unique infusion processes and potential for creative mixology. As the vodka scene evolves, enthusiasts have much to explore, whether sipping straight or crafting innovative cocktails.

For more vodka recommendations, check out the articles on The World’s Best Vodka According to the International Wine & Spirit Competition and The World’s Best Vodka According to the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America.

The Pogues, a genre-defining band in the Irish folk-punk scene, celebrated the 40th anniversary of their iconic album Rum, Sodomy & The Lash in 2025. Formed in London in 1982, The Pogues emerged from the punk movement, fusing traditional Irish music with punk rock energy. Their second album, released in the summer of 1985, showcased lead singer Shane MacGowan’s evolved songwriting while rapidly expanding the band’s popularity.

The band, originally named Pogue Mahone, meaning "kiss my arse" in Irish, was fronted by MacGowan, whose lyrical sophistication drew from various literary and historical sources. The album opener, "The Sick Bed of Cúchulainn," depicts the surreal imagery of a dying warrior, interweaving themes of life, death, and the indomitable spirit to persevere.

Drummer Andrew Ranken suggested the provocative album title, which quoted a supposed comment by Winston Churchill on naval traditions—a humorous nod to the turbulent themes within the album. The artwork, inspired by Théodore Géricault’s The Raft of the Medusa, reflected the album’s mortuary themes and the emotional weight of songs like "A Pair of Brown Eyes," a sorrowful tale of loss that became a fan favorite.

Each track on Rum, Sodomy & The Lash traversed themes of Irish history and identity, encapsulating both celebration and lament. The Pogues also innovatively included covers that melded their sound with Americana, notably a version of "Jesse James" that captured the overlapping cultures of American and Irish folk.

Produced by Elvis Costello, the album was noted for its raw yet disciplined recording process, a stark contrast to their debut. The Pogues expressed gratitude for Costello’s straightforward approach, which preserved the essence of their sound while elevating the production quality.

Throughout their history, the band’s tumultuous relationship with substance use and chaotic lifestyle often clouded their artistic pursuits. Yet, this was symbiotically reflected in MacGowan’s lyrics, particularly in "The Old Main Drag," a moving tale believed to draw from his own life experiences.

In later years, internal struggles led to shifts in the lineup, with MacGowan being replaced by Spider Stacy on vocals for subsequent albums. Despite this, The Pogues maintained a significant influence on the Celtic punk movement, inspiring a new wave of artists.

Fast forward to the release of their anniversary show, The Pogues emphasize their desire to be remembered for their authenticity and the ability to convey reality without masking it with overly romantic notions of escapism. As they look back on their legacy, they showcase not just a reflection of their tumultuous journey but a celebration of the collective spirit of those who resonated with their music.

A provincial court in Prince George has sentenced Jordon Zachery Roland Cote, a 22-year-old man, to an 18-month conditional discharge after he entered a guilty plea for stealing alcohol and assaulting his ex-girlfriend. This ruling, made on March 12, allows Cote to avoid a criminal record if he meets the terms of his 18-month probation.

Judge Cassandra Malfair emphasized the seriousness of domestic violence, noting that typically, offenders would face a record for such acts. However, she acknowledged the joint plea agreement, Cote’s Indigenous background, and the addition of a counseling requirement aimed at addressing his issues.

The court was informed that Cote had stolen a bottle of Smirnoff vodka, valued at $40, by concealing it in his pants while leaving a BC Liquor Store in Cache Creek on April 27, 2024. The store manager became aware of the theft through surveillance footage.

In an unrelated incident on June 30, 2024, Cote was involved in an altercation where he verbally abused a woman, physically assaulted her by throwing her to the ground, and damaged her cell phone.

In addition to probation, Judge Malfair imposed several conditions on Cote, including completing 50 hours of community service, refraining from contact with specific individuals, avoiding weapons, and staying away from any BC Liquor Store locations.

A provincial court in Prince George has sentenced 22-year-old Jordon Zachery Roland Cote to 18 months of probation for stealing liquor and assaulting his ex-girlfriend. On March 12, after pleading guilty to charges of theft under $5,000 and domestic assault, Cote received a conditional discharge, meaning he will not have a criminal record if he successfully completes his sentence.

Judge Cassandra Malfair emphasized the seriousness of domestic violence but noted that her decision took into account the joint nature of the submission, Cote’s Indigenous background, and the inclusion of a counseling term aimed at addressing underlying issues.

The court heard that Cote had stolen a bottle of Smirnoff vodka, valued at $40, from a BC Liquor Store in Cache Creek on April 27, 2024, concealing it in his pants. The store manager discovered the theft after reviewing surveillance footage. Additionally, on June 30, 2024, Cote was involved in another incident where he verbally assaulted a woman, physically attacked her, and damaged her cell phone.

As part of his probation conditions, Cote must complete 50 hours of community service, refrain from contacting specific individuals, avoid possessing weapons, and is prohibited from entering any BC Liquor Store.