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Unicorn, a Chicago-based online auction platform for wines and spirits founded in 2020, is gaining significant attention for transforming rare whiskey bottles into lucrative investments. The startup has facilitated the auction of over $125 million worth of alcoholic beverages since its inception, attracting a diverse clientele looking to buy, sell, or trade bottles ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end collectibles.

Phil Mikhaylov, the company’s CEO and co-founder, emphasized Unicorn’s unique approach to the spirits market. It caters to both seasoned collectors and novice buyers, providing opportunities to acquire high-value bottles alongside affordable finds. Each week, the platform hosts auctions where thousands of bottles are sold, often turning what may seem like dusty collections into profits measuring in the thousands or even tens of thousands.

Unicorn operates from a large, renovated warehouse in Ravenswood, previously a brewery, where it digitizes, authenticates, and stores auction-ready bottles. The facility features a high-security area, known as the vault, which houses tens of thousands of bottles. This allows the company to manage inventory effectively, with weekly sales generating between $1.2 million and $2 million.

The auction system operates with no set minimum bids and boasts a 100% sell-through rate on many items. Buyers pay a 15% buyer’s premium, and sellers incur a 5% fee. Currently, Unicorn has 75 employees and a second facility in Bridgeport for long-term storage.

The recent visit of Robert Drousth from Wisconsin exemplified the auction’s impact. Drousth, who collected whiskey for years, brought in a collection valued at up to $39,700, far surpassing his initial investment of $1,500. His experience illustrates how collectible spirits can appreciate significantly, sometimes yielding returns of over 2000%.

This rising interest in rare whiskey as an investment mirrors trends seen in other asset classes, with Unicorn serving as a bridge between traditional retail liquor experiences and high-stakes online auction environments. As the demand for rare bottles continues to grow, Unicorn stands poised to capitalize on this expanding market, making it an intriguing player in the world of collectibles.

For more information, you can visit Unicorn’s website.

Fuzzy Zoeller, a renowned golfer from Indiana, has ventured into the spirits industry with the creation of Fuzzy’s Vodka, made from high-quality Midwestern corn. A golfing legend with ten PGA wins, including the 1984 US Open and the 1979 Masters, Zoeller decided to pursue his passion for vodka when approached to endorse a wine label, famously stating, “I’m not a wine drinker; I’m a vodka drinker.”

Fuzzy’s Vodka stands out due to its rigorous distillation process, which involves five distillations and ten charcoal filtrations. Additionally, a portion of the vodka is aged in new American oak barrels, imparting a distinctive flavor. Launched in the U.S. market in 2010, Fuzzy’s Vodka has been well received by the spirits community.

The brand also offers unique cocktails such as the Fuzzy Wallbanger, a reimagined Harvey Wallbanger, and the Transfusion, which combines Concord grape juice, ginger ale, Fuzzy’s Vodka, and a lime squeeze.

Fuzzy’s Vodka reflects the spirit and joyful essence of its creator, catering not just to vodka connoisseurs but also to golf fans who appreciate the camaraderie and fun that accompanies the game.

Pope Leo XIV was elected during a conclave that garnered much attention, with live updates following the announcement of Cardinal Prevost as the first American pontiff. However, significant discussions also arose surrounding the implications of having a pope from the United States.

Meanwhile, questions were raised about whether May 8 should be recognized as a national holiday. In light of recent political discussions, former President Trump endorsed the idea, but questions remain about its practical realization.

In practical health advice, individuals are encouraged to explore pickling more than just cucumbers, with beets, peaches, okra, and watermelon highlighted as excellent choices for those interested in preserving summer produce.

In educational contexts, the mechanics and implications of school voucher systems have stirred curiosity. FAQs are being released to clarify how these vouchers function, where they are available, and the potential effects on students and their schools.

Starbase, Texas, has also become a point of fascination. Elon Musk’s new city project has raised eyebrows and speculation regarding its future and purpose in the broader landscape.

In the realm of personal health, an innovative individual began creating his own weight loss medication after insurance coverage fell short, showcasing resourcefulness amidst healthcare challenges.

A new trend has emerged in the coffee industry—brewing coffee alternatives using unconventional ingredients such as mushrooms and date pits. This shift raises questions about their viability and taste compared to traditional coffee.

The conclave process itself is under scrutiny, with the public eager to understand how the selection of the next pope occurs, including the dramatic moments like the black smoke signaling a decision.

Lastly, for those who might not possess a Real ID, guidance is being offered on how to navigate air travel and security protocols effectively in light of deadlines approaching.

For continuous news and insights, follow updates in these areas through Yahoo News.

A Colorado whiskey has recently gained recognition on the global stage, being crowned the best American-made single malt at the 2025 London Spirits Competition. Loveland’s Root Shoot Spirits earned this prestigious accolade for its flagship product, Root Shoot Whiskey, which is made from barley grown exclusively on Colorado’s Front Range.

The announcement came at the end of April, marking a significant achievement for the distillery, particularly since this whiskey has been aged for four years and utilizes grains sourced directly from their own cultivation efforts. This recognition follows the recent designation of American single malt whiskey as an official spirits category in the United States, positioning local distillers to compete against renowned producers from Scotland and Japan.

Root Shoot Spirits operates as a sister company to Root Shoot Malting, which is owned by Todd Olander, a fifth-generation farmer. The malting company cultivates approximately 700 acres of barley to provide quality ingredients for brewers and distillers across Colorado. The award-winning whiskey was first launched in 2023, with the aim of encapsulating the essence of the farm and the malting process in a distinct spirit.

At the London Spirits Competition, judges rated Root Shoot Whiskey with an impressive 98 points out of 100, based on a variety of qualities including aroma, flavor, and overall appeal. Judges also consider the labeling and presentation when determining scores, differentiating this competition from others that may conduct blind tastings.

In Olander’s words, the recognition is not just for the whiskey itself but also for the agricultural efforts that have gone into its making, emphasizing the importance of the raw materials in producing quality spirits.

Interestingly, this is the second consecutive year that a Colorado whiskey has been awarded the title of best American single malt at the competition, following the win by Colorado Honey from Spirit Hound Distillers in 2024.

For more information, you can explore the following links:

• Root Shoot Spirits
• London Spirits Competition
• Root Shoot Malting

The Galvez Rum Tasting Room & Gardens recently held its second Rum Festival on April 26 in Jackson, offering a blend of flavor, music, and a welcoming atmosphere. The event took place both indoors and outdoors at the Spanish-style distillery, featuring a lovely green lawn and garden area with tables and shaded seating.

At the festival, attendees could participate in tastings of the three types of Galvez rums blended and bottled on-site. The rum itself honors Bernardo de Galvez, the Spanish governor of Louisiana, and is sold throughout Louisiana and online.

Outside, festivalgoers enjoyed various food offerings, frozen rum drinks, and iced coffee, while children delighted in lawn games. Snacks like popcorn, cotton candy, and funnel cakes attracted visitors of all ages, who lounged about or danced on the grass.

The event also served as an opportunity to educate attendees about the historical significance of the Spanish role in the American Revolutionary War. Representatives from multiple historical organizations shared insights about Galvez and discussed events leading up to the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026. Reenactors in period uniforms demonstrated life during that era by firing replica muskets, engaging those interested in learning about the Battle of Baton Rouge and the larger context of the Revolutionary War.

The festival boasted live music throughout the day, featuring local musicians and bands, including the Grammy-nominated Dee Fleming & the Zydeco Train. Founded by businessman George Schaffer, the Galvez Rum Tasting Room is based at 1848 Charter St. in Jackson and operates from Friday to Saturday, with additional appointments available. For more information, visit Galvez Rum.

Whenever you ask the East Texas Southern rock band Whiskey Myers about the origin of their name, you’re bound to get a different story each time. With the recent announcement of their seventh studio album, Whomp Whack Thunder, it’s the perfect moment to look back at the entertaining tales they’ve shared over the years.

Unlike many bands who clearly state the inspiration behind their name, Whiskey Myers has opted for secrecy. They made a pact to keep their name’s origin under wraps but have still had fun spinning various yarns for fans asking about it. Since their growth following the release of their album Early Morning Shakes in 2015, they’ve presented increasingly imaginative responses to the question.

The band is known for weaving elaborate stories around their name. They’ve claimed it comes from an ancient Viking word or a romantic term from Rome, while lead singer Cody Cannon has humorously declared it translates to “Spanish for a fighting chicken.” His story is a fan favorite, perhaps because he often serves as the spokesperson for the band.

In a report from 2016 by The State Journal-Register, it was suggested that their name originated from a local man named Myers, who lived near a river and was known for his constant drunkenness. The band allegedly borrowed the nickname "Whiskey" for their own use.

Recently, when asked about it, Cody shared a more colorful version:

“It’s from a fighting rooster. We used to be male strippers in Mexico, and we didn’t make very much money because we didn’t look good enough, so we had to start fighting chickens. That was the name of the two chickens… the best roosters. We had two… they were badasses.”

With such an array of stories, it seems the true origin of Whiskey Myers’ name may forever remain a mystery, adding to their mystique. As they continue to build their legacy, fans can look forward to hearing their lead single “Time Bomb” from the upcoming album.

Whomp Whack Thunder tracklist:

1. Time Bomb
2. Tailspin
3. I Got To Move
4. Rowdy Days
5. Icarus
6. Midnight Woman
7. Break These Chains
8. Born To Do
9. Rock N Roll
10. Ramblin’ Jones
11. Monsters

The band will be on tour this year as part of their What We Were Born To Do Tour, with shows lined up across various states. Keep an eye on their schedule for a chance to catch them live!

Bushmills, the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery, has been crafting whiskey for an impressive 400 years, nestled in the stunning northern coast of Ireland. To celebrate the release of their remarkable 46-year-old Irish single malt, "Secrets of the River Bush," Shortlist visited the distillery to delve deeper into the whiskey-making craft.

In a conversation with Alex Thomas, Bushmills’ Master Blender, we explored her journey from an eager newcomer to a highly respected figure in the whiskey world. Alex’s journey began with her husband introducing her to a position at the distillery. Growing up nearby, she had always dreamed of working at Bushmills. Starting in the maturation team, Alex was captivated by the distilling process and the distillery’s commitment to tradition, sparking her passion for a career in whiskey.

In November 2021, she achieved her dream of becoming the Master Blender at Bushmills, a role she embraced with enthusiasm and honor.

During our discussion, Alex expressed her deep affection for the distillery, its heritage, and the people who have shaped its legacy. She emphasized that the magic of Bushmills lies in its dedicated workforce, who feel a sense of ownership and commitment to maintaining the distillery’s high standards. This culture of passion and care has allowed it to thrive while others have faltered.

For those new to the world of whiskey, Alex had some thoughtful advice. She encouraged aspiring whiskey drinkers to approach the experience with an open mind, recognizing that taste can vary based on context and individual experiences. She also highlighted the importance of cocktails, noting how they can enhance one’s introduction to whiskey and inspire creativity among mixologists.

As Irish whiskey continues to gain popularity, Alex’s vision for Bushmills seems clear: to honor its rich history while paving the way for future innovations. With the distillery’s enduring charm and the expertise of its leadership, it’s an exciting time for whiskey enthusiasts.

For more whiskey insights, check out The best whiskey in the world, taste tested!.

Marcia Likarish embodies the spirit of adventure, exploration, and community, which has shaped her journey through motherhood and entrepreneurship. Rather than confining her world to home life after having her two sons, Robert and Jonathan, she opted to broaden their horizons by introducing them to travel and new experiences. This approach ingrained a love for adventure in the Likarish family’s foundation.

When her sons expressed their desire to start a whiskey distillery named Ironroot Republic, Marcia took it upon herself to aid their ambition. She accompanied them on a trip to Kentucky to learn from top distillers. During this pivotal visit, she discreetly placed their name on the waiting list for a new whiskey still from Vendome Copper & Brassworks, an esteemed manufacturer. Her firm belief in Ironroot led her to commit to the still two years before the distillery was established. Much to their surprise, the call from Vendome came when Ironroot was ready to start production; Marcia’s early action secured them a still, which became the heart of their award-winning whiskey.

Marcia’s entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond distilling. Her dedication to building community connections led her to engage with distillers across Texas, creating a network of support within the industry. This commitment earned her the affectionate title of "Mother of Texas Whiskey," a nod from her peers in recognition of her contributions and efforts.

Throughout her life, Marcia has demonstrated an unyielding curiosity and passion for sharing knowledge. Her involvement at Ironroot transcends business; she treats every barrel of whiskey as a cherished child, nurturing and guiding them to reach their full potential. For her, every bottle represents a time capsule filled with the hopes and efforts of countless people, making each sip a celebration of meaningful moments with friends and family.

Spirits distributor Blue Caterpillar has partnered with Two Drifters Distillery, a UK producer known for its carbon-negative rum, to bring their unique offerings to global travel retail. This agreement allows for the launch of Four core varieties: Pure White Rum, Signature Rum, Lightly Spiced Rum, and Overproof Spiced Pineapple Rum across North, Central, and South America starting in June.

Founded by Russ and Gemma Wakeham, Two Drifters is notable for its commitment to sustainability—each bottle produced removes over 1kg of CO₂ from the atmosphere. Their operations utilize renewable energy and advanced carbon capture technology in collaboration with Climeworks to surpass their carbon emissions. Packaging is also eco-friendly, featuring lightweight glass bottles made in the UK, compostable seals, and labels crafted from waste sugarcane fiber.

The timing of this partnership coincides with a notable shift in the rum market, where a growing demand for premium products aligns with increasing consumer awareness of sustainable practices. This makes Two Drifters’ offerings compelling for those seeking exceptional flavors coupled with strong sustainability credentials.

Dr. Russ Wakeham expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting their ambition to capture 1% of the global rum market by 2035 while making a positive environmental impact. Michael Gebrael, CEO of Blue Caterpillar, affirmed that Two Drifters exemplifies the innovative and quality-driven brand ethos they aim to promote.

Melky Jean’s Saint Sauveur Rum stands as a testament to Haitian heritage and the narrative of resilience rooted in the 1972 refugee story, marking a significant chapter in Haitian history. This rum blends rich flavors with a deeper meaning, serving both as a libation and a celebration of the Haitian spirit as Haitian Heritage Month unfolds.

Born from Melky Jean’s vision, the Saint Sauveur 1972 Premium 4 Year Rum is not just another celebrity product. It is a thoughtful, crafted homage to the struggles and triumphs of the Haitian people. The rum’s unique flavor profile offers a smooth, smoky finish accented by oak, caramel, and vanilla nuances, creating a sensory connection to history. Each bottle also features a tribute to the Saint Sauveur ship, which famously ran aground in Pompano Beach in 1972, carrying Haitian refugees in search of freedom.

Melky Jean, a third-generation entrepreneur, embodies the legacy of her grandmother, a moonshiner from the 1940s, and her mother, who created traditional Haitian liqueur, Kremas. As the majority owner of Saint Sauveur Rum, Melky embraces her heritage while crafting a new narrative, underscored by the tagline: "Taste the Heritage, Celebrate the Spirit." This message emphasizes the importance of self-representation and the power of storytelling.

In her aim to reshape perceptions of Haiti, Melky argues that black individuals must take the lead in narrating their own tales. Her presentations often highlight the lack of awareness about important events like the Saint Sauveur’s landing, drawing parallels to the well-known Mayflower. This focus on history serves to strengthen the brand’s identity within the larger context of the Haitian-American experience.

Melky speaks passionately about her upbringing in Brooklyn, where her dual identity made her feel disconnected from both American and Haitian cultures. Identifying as both American and Haitian, she faced challenges in navigating her identity in a society that often simplified complex narratives. This complexity is reflected in the mission of Saint Sauveur Rum, which seeks to honor and encapsulate the multifaceted experiences of the Haitian diaspora.

The rum’s packaging also reflects Melky’s commitment to authenticity, as she chose to work with a Black woman-owned design company for the bottle labels. This decision reinforces her dedication to inclusivity and representation in the industry. Moreover, she asserts that the story of Haiti is intricately linked to the broader narrative of Black history, urging recognition of the contributions of Haitian individuals to American society.

With a personal connection to the year 1972—when her mother arrived in the United States seeking refuge—Melky’s entrepreneurial journey is as much about self-investment as it is about perpetuating her family’s legacy. By creating Saint Sauveur Rum, she challenges conventional norms surrounding rum consumption, promoting it as a sophisticated beverage suitable for savoring rather than merely a vacation drink.

The act of enjoying Saint Sauveur Rum symbolizes a celebration of Haitian heritage, resilience, and community. Melky emphasizes that enjoyment of the rum connects drinkers to the shared legacy of strength embodied by the Haitian people. Her familial lineage, marked by women of indomitable spirit, provides a rich historical foundation for the brand, which Melky views as more than just a product—it is a cultural experience that bridges generations and communities.

In summary, Saint Sauveur Rum offers a unique narrative intertwined with the journey of Haitian identity. As Melky Jean invites others to share in this heritage, she celebrates the profound contributions of Haitians to the fabric of American history, echoing resilience and strength with every sip.