Liquor-articles 1851

How does an afternoon of tasting up to 100 whiskeys sound? I’ll borrow from the alleged words of Mark Twain: "Too much of anything is bad, but too much good whiskey is barely enough."

If that sounds appealing, check out the Jersey City Whiskey Fest, scheduled for Saturday, February 1, from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at the Harborside Atrium in Jersey City. For $70, your ticket grants you admission (or $15 for designated drivers), a souvenir tasting glass, and as many .5-ounce samples as you can responsibly drink.

Alongside a variety of whiskeys — including bourbon, single-malt, Canadian, and rye — attendees will also find other spirits like tequila and vodka. Participants can engage with master distillers and whiskey experts to enhance their tasting experience.

In addition to spirits, the festival will feature local craft beers, food for purchase, live music, and various vendors.

To reserve your tickets, visit newyorkcitywhiskeyfest.com. The event is strictly for those aged 21 and older, and pets, as well as outside food or drinks, are not permitted.

Jason Armstrong, a former bartender and wine importer, founded his whiskey brand, Den of Thieves, after an inspiring conversation during a bourbon trail trip in 2017. A friend, aware of his passion for whiskey, encouraged him to pursue this dream. However, it was only after he had named the brand that he discovered a surprising connection to his family’s history of bootlegging.

The name "Den of Thieves" reflects Armstrong’s upbringing in Brooklyn during the 80s and 90s, a time marked by a significant drug problem. He described how local drug dealers looked out for him as a kid, ensuring that he stayed in school. This experience led him to believe that there existed an unwritten honor code even among thieves. Additionally, being an avid comic book fan, the name nods to a character named Xander from the thieves’ guild in New Orleans, symbolizing Armstrong’s vision of whiskey being associated with clandestine, traditional bars.

As he began his journey with Den of Thieves, he unexpectedly learned that his maternal grandfather, Bernie Powell, had been a bootlegger in Georgia. Armstrong, who had never met him as he died before Armstrong was born, now feels a connection between his whiskey brand and the legacy of his grandfather’s “den of thieves.” Currently, Den of Thieves is available in several states, including New York and New Jersey, with plans for expansion later this year.

The whiskey’s initial debut occurred in 2018, but Armstrong decided to withdraw it from the market as he was not satisfied with the flavors. After revamping the product, he successfully relaunched it in late 2019, just before the COVID-19 pandemic struck. The pandemic unexpectedly benefited his brand, allowing him to secure shelf space and gain traction amid surging liquor sales, which saw a 20% increase from March to September 2020.

Den of Thieves now offers a range of four whiskeys: a five-year-old bourbon, an eight-year-old bourbon, a ginger vanilla bourbon, and a chocolate bourbon. Armstrong’s first creation was the ginger vanilla bourbon, specifically designed to pair well with cigars, something he personally enjoys.

Throughout this journey, Armstrong has ensured that there’s something for everyone in his whiskey line, stating that no one trying his products would leave without finding something to their liking. He also advocates pairing his whiskey with one of his own cigar creations, Tristan Lee Cigars, named in memory of his nephew and sister who passed away.

For additional information about Den of Thieves, visit Den of Thieves Whiskey.

Peavey Mart has been a staple for farm supplies, with Randy Doran, a former manager who now writes songs celebrating the store, focusing on its extensive offerings. However, the Bedford location, part of a worker-owned chain, is slated to close, joining a list of 90 closures nationwide.

In Cape Breton, the Verschuren Centre in Sydney has received a boost with $1 million in government funding aimed at developing biomanufacturing processes that utilize microbes to replace oil refineries, with the goal of producing paints, dyes, and plastics.

Wind energy is on the rise in Nova Scotia, with six new wind projects approved, together generating 2,000 gigawatt hours of capacity yearly. Set to partner local companies with First Nations, these wind farms are expected to be operational by 2028, despite ongoing challenges in the U.S. regarding wind energy.

Amidst these developments, Halifax is facing mixed reviews. While the city reports an uptick in GDP and population, high housing costs and inadequate public transit have sparked complaints among residents. New mayor Andy Fillmore and his council are addressing these pressing issues.

Lastly, columnist John Demont emphasizes the importance of supporting local businesses, particularly in light of potential tariff conflicts. He encourages residents to buy locally produced goods, including Cheezies and Iron Works rum, as a means of strengthening the economy.

For more insights, view the original article here.

Kylie Jenner has introduced a new ready-to-drink (RTD) vodka soda called Sprinter, generating excitement among drink enthusiasts. While I’m not a fan of the reality show Keeping Up with the Kardashians, I’ve respected Kendall Jenner for creating an excellent tequila with 818 Tequila. This background informed my expectations for Kylie’s offering.

I purchased the variety pack, which includes four flavors—grapefruit, lime, peach, and black cherry—and conducted a taste test.

Sprinter Overview

Sprinter is a vodka soda that combines vodka with sparkling water and fruit juice. Each 355ml can contains a low 4.5% alcohol by volume (ABV) and 100 calories, with no gluten or added sugar. One notable aspect of Sprinter is the choice of vodka over grain alcohol, which often yields a dull taste.

The branding is sleek and minimalist, with each flavor distinguished by color—making them easy to pick without searching for labels.

Taste Test Highlights

Here’s a breakdown of each flavor:

1. Peach: My favorite. It captures the delicate tang and sweetness of real peaches, making it truly refreshing.
2. Grapefruit: Offers a tart, zesty bitterness that balances well with the vodka.
3. Black Cherry: Has a rich fruit flavor, being the most robust choice available.
4. Lime: This was the weakest link for me. The combination with vodka doesn’t stand out and feels reminiscent of many other lime-flavored RTDs on the market.

While I enjoyed the fruit-forward flavors, my only major concern is the low ABV. At 4.5%, a single can may leave those who typically drink more feeling like they need to consume two to feel any effect—totalling 200 calories and prompting a reconsideration of simply mixing a cocktail instead.

Conclusion

Overall, Kylie Jenner’s Sprinter delivers beautifully in terms of aesthetics and flavor, making it a contender for your next party drink. With its juicy taste, it could easily convert you into a fan. For those interested in trying Sprinter, you can find it here.

A double killer, Steven Sansom, has been sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole for the brutal murder of Sarah Mayhew. Sansom, previously jailed for another murder, committed this horrific crime while on licence. He, along with his partner Gemma Watts, engaged in a twisted relationship characterized by violence and a shared "bloodthirsty and wicked fantasy."

The Old Bailey court heard that the couple had planned Sarah’s murder together. Both admitted to the crime, which involved not only the murder itself but also attempts to cover it up by dismembering her body and disposing of it in various locations. The judge, Mrs. Justice Cutts, described Sarah’s fear and suffering as she realized her fate.

Prosecutors highlighted the disturbing nature of the couple’s exchanges leading up to the murder, revealing fantasies of violence integrated with their sexual discussions. Sarah Mayhew, who had met Sansom years earlier on a dating site, was last seen alive on March 8, 2024. Her body parts were discovered weeks later in Rowdown Fields, New Addington, and subsequently, her torso was found in the River Wandle.

During sentencing, prosecutors described the meticulous efforts made by the couple to hide the gruesome evidence of their crime. Sansom had been observed discarding items linked to Sarah in the days following her death. Reports further detailed how DNA from the crime scene matched that of Mayhew’s.

Gemma Watts, sentenced to a minimum of 30 years, was also implicated in the murder and helped to conceal the body. The couple’s relationship was overshadowed by their obsession with violence, reflecting a brutal synergy that culminated in the tragic loss of an innocent life. As the case unfolds, it serves as a chilling reminder of the depths of human depravity and the grievous consequences of unchecked impulses.

For further information, you can explore the details of similar cases or discussions on relationships that delve into the psychological aspects of such violent crimes in legal and psychological forums.

NEFT Vodka has officially partnered with Ovation Hollywood as its first vodka partner. This collaboration will be inaugurated with a Super Bowl celebration alongside Dave & Buster’s, allowing visitors to enjoy themed cocktails or NEFT Vodka on the rocks during a live-streamed viewing event in the Ovation Hollywood courtyard. The partnership promises to feature multiple monthly events throughout the year.

Ovation Hollywood, located at the bustling intersection of Hollywood Boulevard and Highland Avenue, has transformed into a prominent destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Kim Sharp, VP of marketing at DJM Capital, emphasized the venue’s commitment to delivering exceptional experiences to its guests, and noted that NEFT Vodka will enhance their programming with unique activations.

Throughout the year, NEFT Vodka will showcase its two-ingredient vodka through exclusive tastings, signature cocktails crafted by their mixologist Luke Barr, and a variety of activities designed to engage patrons. Jeff Mahony, CEO of NEFT Vodka, highlighted the significance of creating extraordinary moments in their partnerships, expressing confidence that Ovation Hollywood is an ideal collaborator for delivering memorable experiences.

For more details, visit:

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Riley Jane English, a 24-year-old from Massachusetts, was arrested at the U.S. Capitol after turning herself in to police, claiming she intended to kill a newly confirmed member of President Trump’s cabinet.

On Monday afternoon, she approached the police and revealed that she had multiple knives and Molotov cocktails, stating her desire to surrender. Police found a folding knife and two small bottles of vodka with cloth attached to them, along with a larger bottle of vodka and a sweatshirt with cut sleeves in her car.

English allegedly confessed to traveling from Massachusetts to Washington, D.C., with the plan to assassinate either Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth or House Speaker Mike Johnson. During her trip, she stopped at a library in Maryland to read about the confirmation hearings of Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent and decided to target him instead.

According to charging documents, English planned to use the Molotov cocktails to set fires in front of Bessent. She indicated to the police that she was prepared to kill several U.S. Capitol Police officers to reach her target and accepted the possibility of being killed by them.

Upon her arrest, she also carried a handwritten note expressing her feelings of helplessness in the face of violence, stating she “can’t do nothing while nazis kill my sisters.”

English is currently being held without bond following her initial court appearance and is scheduled for a detention hearing.

The ball boy who was kicked by Chelsea legend Eden Hazard has taken his vodka business to new heights, relocating to a lavish headquarters valued at £150 million.

Charlie Morgan, now 28 years old, became famous for his confrontation with Hazard during a Carabao Cup match between Chelsea and Swansea 12 years ago. Back then, Morgan, who was just 17, attempted to waste time by refusing to hand over the ball. Frustrated, Hazard kicked him, which led to the footballer receiving a red card, and Chelsea subsequently lost the match.

Years later, Morgan founded Au Vodka in 2015, and his success has skyrocketed; the brand is now worth a staggering £150 million. His entrepreneurial journey has earned him a spot on The Times’ list of millionaires under 30.

After moving to a new fully gold-decorated headquarters in Swansea, Morgan proudly transitioned his growing operation from a cramped office to an expansive space that mirrors the luxurious brand image of Au Vodka. He shared this milestone with followers on LinkedIn, reflecting on the rapid growth of his business from its humble beginnings.

The vodka brand has attracted celebrity endorsements from well-known figures like Ronaldinho and Floyd Mayweather. Morgan even reconciled with Hazard last year, where they shared a drink together, highlighting how far they’ve both come since that infamous match.

As his personal wealth reaches £55 million, Morgan will also inherit his father’s luxury hotel business and his role as a director at Swansea City FC, deepening his ties to the football community that initially thrust him into the limelight.

A cockatoo recently captured everyone’s attention with a hilarious reaction after indulging in some cake. The bird’s antics mirrored that of a child who’s had a little too much sugar, leading to an uproar of laughter from its audience. The playful display has gone viral, bringing joy to many who appreciate the quirks of animals.

Adding to the buzz, Starbucks has announced the upcoming launch of its 2025 spring menu, which will feature an enticing new Chai latte that is already generating excitement. Alongside this, fans can look forward to other new items and the return of a beloved floral flavor.

In a heartwarming segment, a 92-year-old grandmother shared her favorite Trader Joe’s products, reminding us that wisdom is often intertwined with experience. Additionally, there’s a culinary tip going around about making breakfast burritos taste even better; a creamy ingredient is recommended for inclusion in scrambled eggs to elevate the flavor.

Starbucks is also making headlines with a major update to its drink policy, offering free refills for loyal customers, albeit with some conditions attached. Lastly, an interesting detail surfaced regarding the best way to cook hamburgers: many have found that baking them yields superior results compared to traditional skillet methods.

For those looking to explore culinary adventures, several new recipes highlight the best seasoning techniques for rice and chicken, illustrating that even simple dishes can be transformed into standout meals.

Liquor store shelves are overflowing with celebrity spirits brands, yet often, a celebrity’s involvement in such products is minimal, chiefly participating in a sample tasting and allowing their name to be branded on an existing product. However, Trovador Rum stands apart by being a product deeply rooted in its creator’s personal narrative.

Raul Malo, the frontman of The Mavericks, has drawn inspiration from his Cuban American heritage and his music to establish Trovador Rum. The name "Trovador," Spanish for "troubadour," resonates with Malo’s musical essence, serving as an homage to both his cultural background and the journey that led to this creation.

Chad Newton, the driving force behind Trovador and known for his popular East Side Banh Mi, has always appreciated Malo’s artistry. Newton discovered a unique synergy between the atmospheric sounds of Malo’s pandemic-era solo album Say Less and the inviting essence of rum. This realization set in motion the idea of a rum that encapsulates the rich, diverse cultural influences of the Caribbean — much like the evocative music of The Mavericks.

With this vision, Newton enlisted the expertise of Devon Trevathan and Colton Weinstein from Liba Spirits, who had previously created a unique rum from New Orleans, utilizing local molasses and an array of distinctive flavoring ingredients. Their team also welcomed Beau Gaultier, a Louisiana native with a knack for mixology, as well as Jesse Goldstein, handling branding and design to ensure that Trovador was not just another celebrity label but a product of genuine craftsmanship.

Malo expressed admiration for the collaborative effort. He noted that Chad’s enthusiasm and the talent of the team transformed the project into a reality, reflective of their collective vision. The production team aimed to blend three distinctive styles of rum: a Cuban-style rum made from molasses and a specific yeast strain, an aged Dominican rum for added depth, and a Mexican cane juice rum highlighting fresh, herbal notes.

Malo’s heritage heavily influenced the creation, ensuring that Trovador showcased a balance of sweetness and smoothness. With meticulous attention to detail, the final product was bottled locally and made available through Lipman Distributors. Priced in the mid-$20 range, Trovador is designed to fit seamlessly into both home mixology and cocktail menus.

Trovador has already caught the eye of many renowned craft cocktail bars in Nashville, positioning itself as a versatile spirit for creative concoctions. Bartenders are embracing its complex profile, characterized by tropical fruit notes, coconut, honey, and a hint of citrus — all enhanced without additives.

While Trovador is establishing a reputation in Nashville, the team plans to expand its reach more gradually, although it can be shipped online to 47 states. Malo remains grounded in his approach, reflecting on the small yet essential milestones reached in bringing his vision to life. His philosophy underscores that doing something with care and dedication will lead to meaningful success.