Liquor-articles 1905

When enjoying a piña colada or mojito, there’s a strong likelihood the rum is sourced from a globally recognized name: Bacardi. Founded in 1862, Bacardi operates the largest rum distillery worldwide, known as Casa BACARDÍ, located in Cataño, Puerto Rico—just a 20-minute journey from historic Old San Juan. This iconic site, often referred to as the Cathedral of Rum, welcomes visitors to explore its rich history and partake in interactive experiences such as rum tastings and mixology classes.

Established in Puerto Rico in 1930 during a period of rapid expansion for the company, this distillery accounts for 85% of Bacardi’s rum production, generating over 100,000 liters daily. Since opening to tourists more than 20 years ago, Casa BACARDÍ has become the premier activity in Cataño, garnering a 4.3-star rating on Tripadvisor.

Casa BACARDÍ offers several engaging experiences, including the popular Legacy Tour. This 50-minute guided tour explores the legacy of the Bacardi family and includes a tasting of the brand’s special reserve for $40 per person, aimed at guests aged 18 and older. Participants can also bottle their own rum or learn to craft cocktails in high-energy mixology classes, noted by visitors as one of the most enjoyable parts of their trip.

For those interested in more classic experiences, Casa BACARDÍ provides traditional rum tastings, featuring distinct rums and insights into their unique characteristics. The Founder’s Experience allows visitors to view one of the distillery’s aging rooms before indulging in a tasting in a private area dedicated to Bacardi’s founder, Don Facundo.

Conveniently accessed by land or ferry from San Juan, visitors can enjoy a culinary experience at the on-site food kiosk serving Caribbean-inspired dishes, with options like Tropical Grouper Ceviche and traditional beef yuca fritters. The distillery also boasts an exclusive shop filled with Bacardi merchandise for visitors to take home.

Taking a scenic ferry that synchronizes with the tour schedule from Old San Juan to Casa BACARDÍ offers a unique travel experience. For those wanting more of Puerto Rico’s rum culture, the island is also home to the oldest rum distillery, Ron del Barrilito, making it a must-visit destination for rum enthusiasts.

The Harpeth Hotel in Franklin, Tennessee, has reinvented its lobby bar, lovingly called "Franklin’s Living Room." This cozy space is designed for comfort, featuring plush couches and a warm fireplace, making it perfect for guests looking to unwind with a cocktail. As a testament to its location in Tennessee whiskey country, the hotel has developed an impressive whiskey program.

At the heart of the hotel’s dining experience is the Whiskey Keep, a dedicated bar holding over 250 different whiskeys and bourbons. This is not just any whiskey collection; it is thoughtfully curated, reflecting Tennessee’s rich distilling traditions and inviting both seasoned whiskey connoisseurs and newcomers to enjoy this spirit through guided tasting experiences.

Thomas Tuggle, the hotel’s director of food and beverage, emphasizes the intention behind the Whiskey Keep, stating, "We wanted it to be more than just a bunch of bottles at a bar." The selection ranges from well-known brands like WhistlePig to exclusive local offerings from nearby Leiper’s Fork Distillery, which created a special blend for the hotel after an extensive tasting process.

The Whiskey Keep also features a rotating selection of sought-after, allocated bottles like Pappy Van Winkle, available through a community of loyal patrons. Guests can join the Cask Club, providing them with a personal locker to store their selected bottles and access to exclusive events throughout the year.

For whiskey enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike, there are plenty of opportunities to taste the hotel’s offerings. Complimentary whiskey tastings occur nightly, and every Wednesday, the hotel presents a special pairing of a rotating whiskey with its signature burger. A new $10 pour option allows guests to sample high-demand bottles at a reasonable price, making the experience accessible.

Tuggle affirms the hotel’s stance on whiskey as a central element of its culture. "We’re steeped in whiskey," he states, capturing the essence of Tennessee’s rich heritage reflected in every sip.

The Harpeth Hotel, located in Franklin, Tennessee, has made a mark with its lobby bar, affectionately called "Franklin’s Living Room." Styled with plush couches and armchairs around a cozy fireplace, it’s an inviting space perfect for sipping cocktails. The hotel, with 119 rooms, has developed an impressive whiskey program that truly reflects Tennessee’s rich distilling tradition.

At the heart of the hotel is the Whiskey Keep, an elaborate bar filled with over 250 whiskeys and bourbons. This is more than just an ordinary collection; it’s a curated selection meant to celebrate Tennessee’s distilling heritage and offer a guiding experience for whiskey newcomers and aficionados alike. Thomas Tuggle, the hotel’s director of food and beverage, emphasized the importance of thoughtful selection: “We think there are some special whiskeys out there, and we put a lot of thought into who we invite into the Keep.”

The whiskey selection includes renowned brands like WhistlePig alongside high-quality local producers, such as the nearby Leiper’s Fork Distillery, which collaborated on an exclusive Harpeth blend. This particular blend was selected through an enjoyable blind-tasting process, ensuring that guests could enjoy a unique and well-crafted product, available by the glass, in cocktails, or stored in private lockers for dedicated whiskey lovers.

The Whiskey Keep is known for occasionally featuring rare allocated bottles such as Pappy Van Winkle and Weller William Larue, which are distributed based on loyalty and timing. Regular visitors can join the Cask Club, an annual membership that offers perks like a personal locker and access to exclusive curated experiences centered on spirits, food, and live music in Nashville. Members are also the first to know about new bottle arrivals, creating a connection reminiscent of a local bar.

Every evening at the hotel, complimentary whiskey tastings are held in its library, and on Wednesdays, guests can partake in "Whiskey Wednesday," where a rotating selection pairs with the hotel’s signature burger. Additionally, a new $10 pour program invites guests to sample some of the Keep’s most sought-after bottles, making high-end whiskey accessible to all.

As Tuggle puts it, "We’re steeped in whiskey,” highlighting that it’s an integral part of their offerings and a celebration of Tennessee culture.

When it comes to rum, many people think of Caribbean brands like Bacardi, Mount Gay, and Appleton Estate. However, the title of the best-selling rum in the world belongs to Tanduay, a brand from the Philippines. In 2024, Tanduay sold an impressive 23.8 million cases, surpassing Bacardi, which came in second.

Tanduay was founded in 1854 and gained industry recognition just 22 years later when it won its first award for rum. However, it wasn’t until 2013 that Tanduay began exporting to the United States, reaching only four states: New York, Florida, Illinois, and California. Its foray into Europe happened six years later, making it relatively new to Western consumers.

Primarily popular in the Philippines, Tanduay has made strides in countries like the United States, Belgium, Ukraine, and the United Arab Emirates. Its growing popularity in the U.S. can be attributed partly to its sponsorship of the Golden State Warriors, alongside Jollibee, a well-known Filipino fast-food chain.

Unlike other rums, Tanduay is made with Grade A molasses, which lends it a lighter and sweeter profile. For those interested in trying Tanduay, it’s versatile enough to be mixed with traditional options like Coca-Cola or fruit juice. Those looking to get creative can try classic cocktails like the Mai Tai or Hemingway Daiquiri, or even explore unique recipes like Caribbean rum cake.

For further exploration of this unique rum, you can look into tips for making various rum cocktails. Whether you’re a fan of sweet drinks or classic cocktails, Tanduay presents an exciting option for rum enthusiasts.

• Learn more about popular rum brands
• Expert advice on making rum drinks
• Caribbean rum cake recipe

Vodka isn’t just a staple for cocktails; it has an array of practical uses throughout the home. This versatile spirit, commonly distilled from grains or potatoes, can serve as a natural alternative to synthetic cleaning products, making it a great addition to your household.

1. Clean Cutting Boards

Vodka serves as an effective cleaner for wooden cutting boards. It kills bacteria and viruses and evaporates quickly, preventing moisture damage to the wood. Its ability to remove odors and stains also helps in maintaining the boards’ freshness.

2. Natural Air Freshener

Create a homemade air freshener by mixing vodka with a few drops of your favorite essential oil in a spray bottle. The antiseptic properties of vodka not only mask odors but actually neutralize them, providing a fresh scent without chemical sprays.

3. Freshen Laundry

A small amount of vodka can neutralize odors in laundry, particularly in workout clothes. Adding up to a cup of vodka in the wash along with your detergent can help eliminate stubborn smells.

4. Remove Sticky Residue

Vodka can be used to tackle stubborn sticky residue left by labels or tape. Simply apply vodka to the residue, let it sit for a short period, and then rub it off easily.

5. Quickly Deodorize Clothes

If you’re in a rush and need to freshen up your clothes, mix equal parts water and vodka in a spray bottle, then spritz onto the fabric to eliminate odors.

6. Extend the Life of Cut Flowers

To help cut flowers last longer, add a few drops of vodka to their water. The vodka acts as a natural antibacterial agent, preventing the growth of bacteria and keeping blooms fresh.

7. As a Shampoo Booster

Vodka can also be mixed with your shampoo to help clear scalp build-up and reduce dandruff. This occasional treatment can provide a deep clean but should be adjusted according to your hair type.

8. Substitute for Rubbing Alcohol

In a pinch, vodka can substitute for rubbing alcohol in various applications. Although vodka’s alcohol content is lower, it can still serve as a viable backup for cleaning purposes.

These innovative uses for vodka illustrate that it can be much more than just a drink, serving practical functions in cleaning, deodorizing, and even enhancing your beauty routine.

The Rolling Stones have recently ventured into the world of spirits with the introduction of their first rum, Crossfire Hurricane Rum. This new offering celebrates the band’s rich history with Jamaica, where they recorded the iconic album "Goats Head Soup" back in 1972.

This rum is a blend sourced from some of Jamaica’s top distilleries, combining small-batch pot and column distillates to achieve a balanced and deep flavor with a distinctly Jamaican character. The name and concept are inspired by the lyrics of their classic song "Jumpin’ Jack Flash," which mentions being "born in a crossfire hurricane."

Fans initially speculated that the band might be releasing new music, especially with the teasing of a side project named ‘The Cockroaches.’ Instead, they are unveiling a product that steers away from music and more toward mixology.

Crossfire Hurricane Rum is offered in two variations: Crossfire Hurricane Gold and Crossfire Hurricane Reserve. The Gold variant is vibrant and designed for mixing or sipping, while the Reserve is a more complex blend featuring older rum for added depth. Both promise notes of caramelized bananas, tropical fruit, and a rich finish, highlighted by their sunny golden color.

Mick Jagger and Keith Richards collaborated on this project with Ian Burrell, a well-known Global Rum Ambassador. The rollout is being managed by Kite Drinks, a London-based spirits firm. Each bottle showcases the Rolling Stones’ iconic logo, reinforcing the connection to the band’s legendary status.

In their statement, the band expressed their excitement to share this cultural bond with Jamaica, emphasizing its significance in their long narrative. Burrell described the rum as a true reflection of Jamaican identity, crafted with authenticity to honor the island’s heritage.

Currently, both rum variants are available for pre-order in the UK, priced at £37 for the Gold and £45 for the Reserve.

Basil Hayden, a boutique whiskey brand under Beam, has made notable changes to its product lineup and pricing strategy. The brand has announced that Basil Hayden Golden Rye will replace the previous Basil Hayden Malted Rye. This new expression maintains the same mash bill and proof, featuring tasting notes of toasted rye, warm spice, and delicate florals.

Along with the new name, there’s a shift in pricing aimed at appealing to consumers looking for more affordable options. The new pricing tiers were designed to better fit into the current market landscape.

The core expressions, Basil Hayden Bourbon and the newly introduced Basil Hayden Golden Rye, are now priced at $36.99. This marks a reduction compared to the former price of Basil Hayden Malted Rye, which was listed around $40-$50.

Basil Hayden also has a second tier that includes options like Basil Hayden Toast and Basil Hayden Dark Rye, priced at $49.99. This category seeks to encourage creativity in consumption. More expressions at this price point are expected to be introduced later this year, which previously hovered around the $50-$60 mark.

The premium tier, reserved for Basil Hayden 10-Year-Old Bourbon, remains at $84.99, the same as before.

The spokesperson for Basil Hayden highlighted that the restructuring aims to meet the needs of modern whiskey drinkers and provides them with a range of choices at varying price points. Other whiskey manufacturers are noting similar industry trends, with some indicating potential price adjustments in their product lines as companies adapt to shifts in consumer demand.

For more information, you can refer to the following links:

• Basil Hayden Overview
• Market Trends in Whiskey Pricing

Tito’s Handmade Vodka, renowned for its quality, is also notable for its philanthropic contributions to various scientific endeavors. Recently, a research paper on "exotic magnetic phases in 2D material" was partially funded by Love, Tito’s, the charity arm of the vodka brand. This funding underscores the company’s dedication to advancing scientific research, led by its founder Bert "Tito" Beveridge, who holds a degree in geology and geophysics.

Rather than just doling out vodka to researchers, Tito’s has been actively engaged in funding significant scientific research across a variety of disciplines. Dr. Sarah Everett, the Director of Global Impact and Research at Tito’s, explained that the company’s CHEERS initiative (Creating Hope and Elevating Emerging Research and Science) addresses critical issues including disease detection, environmental concerns, and innovative technologies.

From humble beginnings in vodka distillation—where Beveridge combined his passion for fresh ingredients with a scientific approach—the brand has grown to become an emblem of philanthropy. The initiative not only supports scientific research but also contributes to community services spanning food security, veteran assistance, and animal welfare.

So whether sipping a cocktail or enjoying a martini, patrons can take comfort in knowing their beverage is contributing to good causes and scientific advancement, even if it doesn’t necessarily make complex physics easier to digest.

Sunny Delight has introduced a new vodka seltzer flavor inspired by a popular gag from its iconic 1990s commercials: the "purple stuff." This idea pays homage to a memorable ad where kids opted to pass over a mysterious purple drink in favor of Sunny Delight’s orange and tangerine flavors, creating a nostalgic reference for adults today.

The latest addition, SunnyD Vodka Seltzer PURPLE, is a limited-time release that allows consumers to explore the infamous "purple stuff." Randi Jachino, the chief marketing officer of Harvest Hill Beverage Company, emphasized that while the purple drink was always seen as a mystery, it has now become a bold offering in the cooler.

Reactions on social media have been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing excitement about trying the new drink. Comments suggest that fans appreciate the modern twist on a classic brand joke designed for social gatherings like backyard hangouts and beach days.

The PURPLE seltzer has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 4.5%. It started hitting store shelves nationwide in April, priced at $9.99 for a four-pack. This addition follows the successful launch of SunnyD’s vodka seltzer line in March 2023, which combined the brand’s signature tangy flavors with vodka and seltzer.

For those familiar with the original marketing, the "purple stuff" has been an ongoing reference point, often associated with sugary fruit drinks like Kool-Aid, and has taken on a life of its own in brand lore. With this new product, Sunny Delight aims to spark fresh conversations and lighthearted debates about the drink’s legacy.

For interested shoppers, SunnyD Vodka Seltzer PURPLE can be found at various retailers across the country. For further details, visit the official SunnyD website.

Redemption Whiskey has recently announced a comprehensive refresh of its brand, introducing not only a new bottle design but also a reformulated bourbon. This revamped portfolio, rolling out nationwide, brings a notable increase in proof – now 92 compared to the previous 88 – for its core offerings, including Redemption Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Redemption High Rye Bourbon Whiskey, and Redemption Straight Rye Whiskey. The suggested retail price for each 750-milliliter bottle is set at $29.99.

The redesign follows a legal battle with Diageo over the shape of Redemption’s previous bottle, a case that concluded in February 2024 when the court ruled that the design diluted the trademark of Bulleit Frontier Whiskey. The new packaging features an eagle motif and updated label elements, marking a significant shift from the design that was contested in court.

In addition to the updated branding, the higher proof aims to enhance the bourbon’s flavor profile. Alan Kennedy, Master Blender at Redemption Whiskey, expressed that the increased proof allows for a fuller expression of the whiskey’s character, highlighting its vanilla, fruity, and floral notes while maintaining the balance of spice and smokiness that defines its style.

This relaunch coincides with efforts by parent company Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits to strengthen Redemption’s market position following its legal challenges. The brand has gained accolades recently, including recognition for its 18-year-old bourbon, which was named the third best whiskey of 2025. The redesigned bottles are already being shipped to retailers across the country, gradually replacing the previous inventory.