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America’s history with alcoholic beverages is rich and fascinating. While it has developed a reputation for producing excellent wines and whiskeys, the journey wasn’t always smooth. The Prohibition era in the 1920s drastically impacted the industry, with rickhouses closed, barrels of wine dumped, and bars shut down. Yet, the repeal of Prohibition paved the way for the industry to rebound stronger, favoring spirits over the once-dominant beer and wine markets.

The end of Prohibition led to a renewed focus on American-made products, compelling distillers and winemakers to emphasize quality. Today, while American whiskey holds global acclaim, the market is also seeing an upsurge in domestically produced vodka, gin, and rum. The only spirit not produced in the U.S. is tequila, due to its designation of origin, which mandates that it be made solely in Tequila, Mexico.

Top 5 American-Made Spirits

As international trade policies continue to fluctuate, it’s an opportune time to explore local spirits. Here’s a guide to five notable American labels across various spirit categories, showcasing both established brands and new players.

1. Vodka

American vodka originated from Connecticut in 1934 and gained significant traction, especially in the 1970s when it overtook whiskey in sales. Tito’s Handmade Vodka, launched in 1997, is a leading American vodka brand. The craft vodka scene has also flourished recently with innovative producers.

Bottles to try:

• Hanson of Sonoma: Made with California grapes.
• Barr Hill Vodka: Distilled from raw honey in Vermont.
• The Community Spirit Vodka: Distilled five times in Indiana.
• St. George Spirits All Purpose Vodka: Made in California.
• Wheatley Vodka: Produced at Buffalo Trace Distillery.

2. Whiskey

Despite vodka’s rise, whiskey remains a quintessential American spirit, constituting a significant portion of U.S. spirits exports. Iconic brands such as Maker’s Mark, Michter’s, and Jack Daniel’s dominate the market alongside emerging names like Blanton’s and Uncle Nearest.

Bottles to try:

• Milam & Greene Whiskey: Aged in rickhouses across multiple states.
• Wyoming Whiskey National Parks Series: Limited-edition releases celebrating U.S. National Parks.
• Brother’s Bond Bourbon: A purpose-driven celebrity-backed brand.
• Bardstown Bourbon Collaborative Series: Co-created with other beverage producers.
• Widow Jane Whiskey: Small-batch production from Brooklyn, New York.

3. Gin

Though gin’s popularity surged in the U.S. thanks to British influences, the current trend towards healthy drinking has sparked a renaissance among American gin producers, focusing on botanicals and unique ingredients.

Bottles to try:

• Four Corners Gin: Features herbs from across the U.S.
• Gray Whale Gin: Uses local California botanicals.
• Loch & Union Barley Gin: A distinctive product from Napa.
• Leopold Bros Small Batch Gin: Offers individually-distilled botanicals.
• Corsair American Gin: Exclusively vapor-distilled in Nashville.

4. Rum

Rum’s historical significance in America dates back to the colonial era, and it remains a popular choice today. While traditionally linked with Caribbean distilleries, several American brands are gaining recognition.

Bottles to try:

• Privateer Navy Yard Rum: A molasses-based rum from Massachusetts.
• Bully Boy Boston Rum: Crafted from molasses in Boston.
• Greenbar Distillery Silver Rum: A fresh expression ideal for cocktails.
• Kō Hana Rum: Focuses on agricole rum from Oahu.
• Humboldt Spiced Rum: Made from American sugarcane in California.

5. Brandy

Brandy production in America traces back to the colonial settlers, with Laird & Company being the oldest brand still in operation, having started in 1780.

Bottles to try:

• Laird’s Old Apple Brandy: Aged for 7.5 years in charred oak barrels.
• E&J Brandy: A major American brand established in 1975.
• Argonaut Fat Thumb: A California brand with fruity notes.
• Germain-Robin XO Brandy: A signature California brandy with cherry flavors.
• Korbel VSOP: A well-known style from California.

Explore these American-made spirits to gain an appreciation for the craftsmanship and quality that these brands offer.

America has a rich and tumultuous history with alcoholic beverages, particularly spirits. Despite the significant disruptions caused by Prohibition in the 1920s, which led to a dramatic downturn in the industry, the U.S. has emerged as a top producer of quality wines and spirits. With the repeal of Prohibition, American distillers and winemakers were driven to elevate their craft, employing quality and innovation to establish a strong domestic market. Today, while American whiskey is celebrated worldwide, there’s also a burgeoning interest in vodka, gin, rum, and brandy produced on American soil.

Top 5 American-Made Spirits

With the fluctuating landscape of international trade and potential import taxes, exploring American-made spirits has never been more appealing. Here’s a look at noteworthy labels across five categories:

1. Vodka

The first American vodka was produced in Connecticut in 1934, and by the 1970s, vodka surpassed whiskey in sales. Tito’s Handmade Vodka, launched in 1997, set the stage for many craft producers to create distinctive offerings.

Five bottles to try:

• Hanson of Sonoma – Made with grapes in California.
• Barr Hill Vodka – Distilled from raw honey in Vermont.
• The Community Spirit Vodka – Distilled five times in Indiana.
• St. George Spirits All Purpose Vodka – A versatile option from California.
• Wheatley Vodka – From Buffalo Trace Distillery.

2. Whiskey

American whiskey remains a leading category, accounting for 63% of all U.S. spirits exports in 2023. While brands like Maker’s Mark, Bulleit, and Jack Daniel’s are perennial favorites, many others rise to popularity.

Five bottles to try:

• Milam & Greene Whiskey – Distilled in Texas, aged across four states.
• Wyoming Whiskey National Parks Series – Collectible releases celebrating national parks.
• Brother’s Bond Bourbon – Supports regenerative farming.
• Bardstown Bourbon Collaborative Series – Unique blends in collaboration with various breweries.
• Widow Jane Whiskey – Small-batch production in Brooklyn.

3. Gin

Initially popularized by the British, gin’s botanical qualities have captivated American distillers, leading to an array of unique gins that reflect local flavors.

Five bottles to try:

• Four Corners Gin – Ingredients sourced from across the U.S.
• Gray Whale Gin – California-produced using ingredients like Big Sur juniper.
• Loch & Union Barley Gin – A coriander-forward option from Napa.
• Leopold Bros Small Batch Gin – Crafted with individually distilled botanicals in Denver.
• Corsair American Gin – Exclusive vapor-distilled small batches from Nashville.

4. Rum

Historically favored in the 1600s and a staple during Prohibition, rum has evolved and remains a popular spirit, with American distilleries gaining recognition for their quality.

Five bottles to try:

• Privateer Navy Yard Rum – A molasses-based rum from Massachusetts.
• Bully Boy Boston Rum – Blends of blackstrap and sweet molasses.
• Greenbar Distillery Silver Rum – Ideal for cocktails from LA.
• Kō Hana Rum – Known for its portfolio of agricole rum from Oahu.
• Humboldt Spiced Rum – Made with organic spices from California.

5. Brandy

American brandy has roots dating back to early colonial settlements, with distillation practices evolving since then.

Five bottles to try:

• Laird & Company – The oldest brandy label in America, dating back to 1780.
• Laird’s Old Apple Brandy – Features aging in charred oak barrels.
• E&J Brandy – A mainstream option established in 1975.
• Argonaut Fat Thumb – Flavors of apple, pear, caramel, and oak.
• Germain-Robin XO Brandy – Noted for its cherry characteristics from California.
• Korbel VSOP – A variety typical of Sonoma County’s sparkling wine reputation.

Exploring these American-made spirits can provide a delightful taste of the country’s craftsmanship and heritage.

The Tasmanian AFL club recently revealed its new mascot, Rum’un, during an event that stirred a wave of reactions across Australia. Named after a local term implying someone who’s a bit cheeky, the unveiling did not resonate well with everyone, with many commentators describing the mascot as reminiscent of a "horror movie" character or even a "New York subway rat."

Despite the initial outrage, Tasmanian Devils chairman Grant O’Brien defended the mascot’s design, emphasizing that it was developed through extensive community consultation. The club’s new branding includes the Tasmanian Devil emblem along with a traditional green, yellow, and red color scheme, which generally received positive feedback. However, the mascot itself has been a subject of ridicule.

On social media, users expressed their disbelief and shock at the appearance of Rum’un, which some compared unfavorably to the infamous Fatso the Fat-Arsed-Wombat from the Sydney 2000 Olympics.

The chief designer, Bryony Anderson of Terrapin Puppet Theatre, shared that she aimed to create a “kick-ass” yet friendly mascot. Initially previewed to children from Howrah Primary School, the design received a warm reception, with kids even spontaneously chanting "devil, devil."

O’Brien noted that the creation of Rum’un is a true reflection of the club’s identity, built from the ground up with a unique Tasmanian spirit. The design process involved feedback from local teams and community members, resulting in a character that embodies cheekiness and toughness.

As the club prepares to join the AFL in 2028, it also faces significant challenges, including the construction of a new stadium in Hobart. Initially projected to cost $775 million, recent assessments suggest that the costs could exceed $1 billion due to management issues. The stadium’s approval is crucial for the successor team’s timeline, yet construction has not yet commenced, creating additional uncertainty.

Despite the mascot’s mixed reception, the Tasmania Football Club remains optimistic about Rum’un’s impact and hopes it will unify supporters across the state, embodying local pride and determination.

Dolph Lundgren, the iconic action star known for his performances in films such as Rocky and The Expendables, is venturing into the world of spirits with the launch of his vodka brand, Hard Cut. Drawing on his background in chemical engineering, which he earned before his Hollywood fame, Lundgren aims to create a standout vodka in a market saturated with other celebrity spirits, like those from The Rock and George Clooney.

In his pursuit of the perfect vodka, Lundgren and his wife, Emma, sampled numerous brands but felt compelled to develop their own when they couldn’t find a suitable option. He describes Hard Cut Vodka as "the perfect liquid for a vodka world gone soft," emphasizing that it should be enjoyed on the rocks.

The vodka is noted for its smooth, creamy texture with flavor hints of green apple, fennel, roasted potato, and butterscotch. Currently, Hard Cut Vodka is exclusively available in the United States, priced at $29.99 for a 700ml bottle. It can be purchased from Flaviar.com and will soon be available at BevMo locations in the US. Fans outside the US are hopeful that the vodka will be distributed internationally in the near future.

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.