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Whiskey River Pub and Grill is expanding its reach in Rochester with a new location at the Port of Rochester. The establishment will occupy a prime spot on the second floor of the Port of Rochester building, offering patrons a scenic view alongside its signature dining experience.

The announcement made by the City of Rochester in January hinted at this exciting development, which aims to enhance the area’s waterfront dining options and attract more visitors to the port. The new venue, dubbed Whiskey’s Upper Deck, is expected to provide a vibrant atmosphere for both local residents and tourists alike.

For more information, you can read about it here.

Rum is a remarkable spirit, deeply rooted in sugarcane history, and has been distilled for over four centuries. Originally from the Caribbean, it has spread its influence globally, with distilleries found everywhere from Canada to Cape Town. Amidst the vast array of options, identifying the standout bottle is no easy task. Yet, three bartenders seem to unanimously acclaim one specific rum: Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva.

This expression from the 66-year-old Venezuelan distillery is lauded for its delicate balance of heavy and light rums, aged up to 12 years. It features inviting aromas of orange zest and anise, complemented by a luscious body that blends flavors of vanilla and pineapple, culminating in a finish laden with dried tobacco. At an accessible price point of $33 a bottle, it is revered for both sipping and mixing in cocktails.

Giancarlo Quiroz Jesus, the beverage director at 53AD in Brooklyn, praises the rum for its versatility. He enjoys it neat, where its complexity shines, but recognizes its strength in cocktails as well. His favorite preparation is an Old Fashioned, which he feels transforms beautifully over the course of the drink. He appreciates that it stands alone as a fine spirit yet remains accessible for cocktail enthusiasts.

Sarah An, a bartender at Jolene Sound Room in Miami, also favors Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva. She enjoys it neat to fully appreciate its rich flavors, particularly in a Carajillo cocktail, which has become popular among her patrons.

Christine Wiseman, the US Bartender of the Year at the 2023 Tales of the Cocktail, offers her insights as well. She highlights the rum’s complex flavor profile with notes of toffee and chocolate, making it an exceptional choice for cocktails like a rum Manhattan. She believes its Venezuelan origin adds an enticing cultural element that resonates with consumers.

With the endorsements from these experts, it’s clear why Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva is regarded as a premier rum choice. If you have your own opinions about the best rum out there, share them in the comments!

According to food influencer @snachwithzach, there are rumors that Reese’s will launch a new peanut butter and jelly flavor soon. This nostalgic snack is expected to arrive later this spring and has excited fans eager to indulge in this childhood favorite.

In other news, the fast-food landscape has shifted with Mixue, a Chinese chain specializing in bubble tea and ice cream, surpassing McDonald’s as the world’s largest food and beverage chain by number of locations, boasting over 45,000 stores.

Additionally, meet the Sloppy Otto, a delightful spin on the classic Sloppy Joe, perfect for those who love a sandwich served on a pretzel bun. KFC is also planning significant changes for its brand in 2025, while Costco members remain loyal to their rotisserie chickens, with fun facts emerging about their popular offering.

For those craving healthy eating options, registered dietitians have identified the healthiest fast food sandwich, along with easy tips for making nutritious selections at any fast-food restaurant.

On the recipe front, there are suggestions for quick and easy dishes, including a highly-rated three-ingredient chicken breast recipe and vegetarian options perfect for Sunday dinner.

Lastly, be aware that not all fruits are worth buying at Costco; knowing what to avoid can help save money.

Irish whiskey has seen remarkable growth as a spirit category, with the number of distilleries in Ireland rising from just two to over 45 in the past four decades. U.S. sales now surpass a billion dollars. Here are 10 award-winning Irish whiskeys, all priced under $60, celebrated for their exceptional value and quality.

1. Powers Gold Label Hand Crafted Triple Distilled Irish Whiskey

• ABV: 43.2%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Price: $32
  Powers Gold Label is a classic single pot still whiskey rich in flavors. Its triple distillation and maturation in bourbon and sherry casks create a robust profile with notes of honey, vanilla, and dried fruits. The finish is long and warming.

2. Teeling Small Batch Whiskey

• ABV: 46%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Price: $37
  A blend of malt and grain whiskeys, aged in ex-bourbon and finished in rum casks. It offers sweet tropical fruit notes, caramel, and a smooth palate highlighted by toffee and coconut. The finish is slightly sweet with lingering fruitiness.

3. McConnell’s Sherry Cask Finish 5 YO Irish Whiskey

• ABV: 46%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Price: $43
  McConnell’s Irish Whiskey adds depth through finishing in Oloroso sherry casks. It features rich, aromatic notes of dried fruit and dark chocolate, alongside hints of figs and light nuttiness. The finish is smooth and long.

4. Powers Three Swallow Release

• ABV: 40%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Price: $55
  This whiskey showcases the authentic pot still style with a creamy palate filled with dried fruit, citrus peel, and spices. It’s known for its smoothness and long, silky finish.

5. Teeling Single Grain Irish Whiskey

• ABV: 46%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Price: $50
  Made from a high percentage of corn and aged in Cabernet Sauvignon wine casks, it presents fruity notes of cherries and strawberries with a dry, lingering finish.

6. Teeling Single Malt Irish Whiskey

• ABV: 46%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Price: $58
  A pioneering blend aged in five different cask types, it showcases tropical fruits and nutty undertones, with a rich, complex flavor profile and a long finish.

7. Powers ‘Signature Release’ Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey

• ABV: 46%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Price: $54
  A complex whiskey with sweet and spicy notes. The palate is smooth with ripe fruits and subtle sherry oak notes, continuing into a medium-length finish.

8. Jameson Select Reserve Black Barrel

• ABV: 40%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Price: $44
  This blended whiskey boasts deep flavors from aging in charred bourbon casks. Rich caramel, vanilla, and light smokiness make for a decadent profile with a long finish.

9. Kilbeggan Distilling 8 YO Single Grain Irish Whiskey

• ABV: 40%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Price: $44
  A smooth expression from one of the oldest distilleries, it features light vanilla and malt, balanced with oak and honey notes. The finish is sweet with underlying oak flavors.

10. The Irishman Small Batch Single Malt Irish Whiskey

• ABV: 40%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Price: $53
  This whiskey marries bourbon and sherry aging, yielding flavors of vanilla, dried fruit, and a touch of oak. Its long finish leaves lingering sweetness and spice.

These selections showcase a variety of flavor profiles and production methods, all having earned gold medals at international competitions, making them excellent choices for both newcomers and seasoned whiskey enthusiasts. For more top picks, check out The Top Irish Whiskeys According to the World Whiskies Awards.

Nicole Young, initially a vodka drinker, found her love for whiskey through a flavored variant introduced by a colleague. This pivotal tasting period began in 2014 when Young was collaborating with James Landis, who had recently launched a pecan whiskey called William Wolf Pecan Bourbon. Young, who had struggled to enjoy traditional whiskey due to its harshness, found this flavored bourbon refreshing and intriguing.

In discussions with Landis, they explored the common flavor notes of whiskey like wood smoke, caramel, and vanilla. Young questioned the lack of flavored whiskeys that emphasized caramel and vanilla, prompting the duo to experiment and create something unique. They initially planned to integrate this new creation into Landis’s brand, but the distinctiveness of their whiskey led them to launch it as a separate entity.

The name "Frisky Whiskey" emerged from a casual suggestion that the whiskey tasted "kind of frisky." Young resonated with the idea behind the name, viewing "frisky" as a positive vibe associated with fun and enjoyment. They successfully built a vision and branding around it, garnering enthusiastic feedback from everyone who heard the name.

Frisky Whiskey officially launched in Charleston, SC, in 2022, coinciding with favorable market conditions. The flavored whiskey market was projected to grow significantly, driven by changing consumer preferences. With an impressive initial reception, Frisky Whiskey earned accolades, including a score of 95 out of 100 and a Chairman’s Trophy at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge, in addition to a gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Since its launch, Frisky Whiskey expanded from a single city to multiple states such as New York, New Jersey, Georgia, Michigan, Texas, Florida, and Illinois, with plans to grow its distribution into the Maryland-Virginia-Washington D.C. area to meet rising demand. As Young emphasizes, their strategic growth is centered on targeting specific markets that show a strong interest due to Frisky’s unique offerings.

BRYDENS Guyana recently held a press conference to introduce “Str8 Vybz Rum,” a new brand that is both inspired and endorsed by the renowned Jamaican Dancehall artist Vybz Kartel. The rum is produced by Angostura Limited and has been developed under Kartel’s supervision, reflecting his unique style.

During the launch, Natasha Das, CEO of Brydens Guyana, shared that the initial stock sold out within just two days, prompting plans for a second shipment. The company aims to make this rum a significant part of Guyana’s rum culture, ensuring its presence in bars, restaurants, supermarkets, and local shops. Brydens also plans to host events featuring local DJs and Dancehall artists to promote the brand.

Das emphasized that the launch was more than just about a new beverage; it was a tribute to Vybz Kartel’s incredible influence on the music genre and culture in Guyana. She noted that Kartel’s music has been a strong part of cultural celebrations and gatherings.

Angostura’s Executive Director Rahim Mohammed highlighted the transcendent impact of Kartel’s music and creativity, indicating that it is reflected in every bottle of Str8 Vybz Rum. The new rum line includes four varieties: Ramping Shop, an enhanced rum; Electric, a white rum; and Fever and Unstoppable, both dark rums.

The collaboration with Brydens was applauded for bringing this vision to life. Vybz Kartel, who joined the press conference, mentioned the employment opportunities created by this venture and noted that the rums are named after some of his popular songs.

Additionally, during the event, it was announced that Vybz Kartel would be performing at the upcoming Genesis weekend organized by Hits and Jams Entertainment, set to take place on May 24, 2025. This concert is anticipated to be a significant event in Guyana, with expectations of a record number of attendees. The excitement building up to the event is palpable across various media platforms.

For more information on the rum and upcoming events, visit Brydens Guyana or Hits and Jams Entertainment.

The Nikolas Ritschel Foundation is hosting its annual 5K Shamrock Beer Run/Walk on March 15, 2025. This year’s event will feature five participating breweries along with 30 bars. An auction will take place, offering exciting items including a trip to Ireland, a trip to Florida, various collectibles, beer, and a rare Irish Whiskey that is exclusive to Ireland. The auction will be open from March 5 to March 15. Interested participants can secure their spot for the Shamrock Beer Run/Walk by visiting here.

The 2025 World Whiskies Awards highlighted a diverse selection of Irish whiskeys, showcasing both renowned and lesser-known brands. Here’s a summary of the standout whiskeys along with their tasting notes.

Fercullen Falls Blended Whiskey, 40% ABV

Produced by the Powerscourt Distillery, Fercullen Falls earned accolades as the top Irish blended whiskey. This expression features a unique blend that includes a high proportion of malt whiskey, setting it apart from typical Irish blends.

Tasting Notes: Light and fruity with flavors of honey, vanilla, and malt. There’s a subtle oakiness and floral notes on the nose. On the palate, it offers malted barley, apple, and spices, finishing sweet with lingering fruity and oak notes.

Powers Irish Rye, 46% ABV

The Best Irish Rye Whiskey award went to Powers Irish Rye from Midleton Distillery. This whiskey embodies a revival of rye in Irish whiskey, characterized by a full-bodied style.

Tasting Notes: Spicy aromas of black pepper and cinnamon lead the nose, balanced with honey and caramel. The palate showcases toasted nuts, vanilla, and maltiness, with a long, sweet finish marked by spice and oak.

Redbreast 27 YO, Pot Still Irish Whiskey, 46% ABV

A top-rated Irish Pot Still Whiskey, Redbreast 27 YO is known for its luxurious flavor profile, enriched by aging in Ruby Port casks.

Tasting Notes: Aromas of dried fruits, deep honey, and vanilla greet the nose, while flavors of stewed fruits, toffee, and nuts are prominent on the palate. It finishes long, sweet, and fruity with dark chocolate notes.

Dunville’s, Cigar Malt 13 YO, Irish Single Malt, 46.1% ABV

Dunville’s Cigar Malt, produced at Echlinville Distillery, was honored as the top Small Batch Single Malt, recognized for its complex and smoky character.

Tasting Notes: The nose features tobacco and dark fruits, while the palate is rich with a blend of smoke, tobacco, and oak. The finish is warm with lingering notes of dried fruit and leather.

Teeling Whiskey, Notre Dame Edition, Riversaltes 24 YO, 46% ABV

Celebrating a historical milestone for Notre Dame University, the Teeling Notre Dame Edition was selected as the top Irish Single Malt Whiskey.

Tasting Notes: Offers rich aromas of dark chocolate and dried fruits, while the palate presents toffee, figs, and a touch of smokiness. The finish is long and sweet, with spices and oak notes lingering.

Each of these award-winning whiskeys highlights the artistry and tradition of Irish whiskey-making, showcasing a variety of flavors influenced by different ingredients and aging processes.

The Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery has announced a new addition to its whiskey lineup: the Rye Single Barrel Series. Since its establishment in 2015, the distillery has developed a reputation for innovative and creative whiskey expressions.

The Rye Single Barrel Series aims to highlight the unique qualities of Tennessee Rye Malt through various barrel types. Its creation is inspired by earlier experimental batches featuring a malt-forward, uncut, and unfiltered whiskey. The mash bill includes a special blend of pale, caramel, and chocolate malted rye, making up over 60% of the content.

Grant McCracken, Chief Product Officer, explained that each whiskey in the series is crafted to explore different facets of craftsmanship. While their classic 99 Rye uses a blend of two barrel types, this new series seeks to separate those elements and showcase the distinct flavor profiles that emerge from different cask treatments, such as toasted and charred barrels.

This sought-after Rye Single Barrel Series will be available at select retailers across multiple states including Florida, Georgia, Illinois, and more for a suggested retail price of $64.99 per 750ml bottle. Limited quantities can also be bought online at Seelbachs.com.

For more information, visit the Chattanooga Whiskey website.

A distillery from the Pacific Northwest, Heritage Distilling, has gained acclaim with its Cocoa Bomb chocolate whiskey, which was awarded the title of best flavored whiskey in the U.S. during the 2025 regional World Whiskies Awards held in Louisville, Kentucky, on February 14.

Cocoa Bomb, boasting a 75-proof chocolate flavor, is crafted at Heritage Distilling’s facilities located in Tumwater, Washington, and Eugene, Oregon. Following this victory, the whiskey will advance to compete on a global level later this winter. Justin Stiefel, CEO and co-founder of Heritage Distilling, expressed excitement over the achievement, noting that this is the third time the company has won in this category— a unique feat among brands.

Heritage Distilling has previously captured the title of “Best Flavored Whiskey in the World” twice with its Brown Sugar Bourbon, which has since been acquired by actor Jamie Foxx and rebranded as Brown Sugar Blend.

Stiefel highlighted that flavored whiskey is rapidly growing in popularity, especially among younger consumers, with women representing one of the fastest expanding demographics in the whiskey market. He noted that flavored options often serve as a gateway for newcomers to the whiskey world.

Cocoa Bomb’s recipe features a high corn-based bourbon enriched with dark and semi-sweet chocolate and cane sugar, offering a taste reminiscent of rich cocoa and dark chocolate with marshmallow undertones. Stiefel remarked that sipping Cocoa Bomb could make one forget they were drinking whiskey, as it tastes more like delectable dark chocolate.

Founded in 2012, Heritage Distilling opened its Eugene distillery in 2016, with production evenly split between the two locations. Visitors can enjoy tastings at two sites in Eugene, while the distillery is also collaborating with the Coquille Indian Tribe to build Oregon’s first tribally-owned distillery next to The Mill Casino Hotel & RV Park in North Bend. This future establishment will feature both Heritage products and a new line called Ko-Kwel Spirits, named after a traditional version of the tribe’s name. In addition, Heritage recently acquired Thinking Tree Distillery in Eugene and plans to open a new tasting room there in April.

For more details on Heritage Distilling and their products, visit Heritage Distilling.