Liquor-articles 1905

Every year for the past 18 years, Heaven Hill releases a new whiskey as part of its Parker’s Heritage Collection, which often includes bottles that significantly appreciate in value on the secondary market. The 2024 edition is a malt whiskey finished in Cognac barrels, anticipated to potentially achieve unicorn status.

The Parker’s Heritage Collection is created in tribute to the late Heaven Hill master distiller Parker Beam, who was diagnosed with ALS in 2010. Sales from these whiskeys have raised over $1 million to support ALS research. Previous releases have featured diverse Heaven Hill mashbills and aging processes, with notable editions such as the 2021 Heavy Char Wheat Whiskey, the 2018 Orange Curaçao Finish, and the 2016 24 Year-Old Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon. This year’s offering differs as it’s a malt whiskey comprised of 65 percent malted barley and 34 percent corn, aged since March 2009 for 14 years on the Rickhouse O and Q’s fourth and sixth floors, respectively. After aging, 128 barrels were moved to 56 restructured heavy toast Cognac barrels for an additional four months on Rickhouse H1’s fifth floor.

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The 2024 release is the third collaboration in Parker’s Heritage Collection between Heaven Hill and master blender Alain Royer, a sixth-generation member of a Cognac-producing family in France. “We are excited to continue to work with Alain Royer as we look for more ways to innovate with barrel-finished products,” said Susan Wahl, vice president of American whiskey at Heaven Hill, in a statement. “With this latest expression, we celebrate Parker’s influence on and dedication to innovating outside of Heaven Hill’s traditional bourbon mashbills by crafting a whiskey that embodies his spirit as we continue to support ALS research and patient care.” Tasting notes describe a rich and velvety texture, with notes of molasses, bittersweet chocolate, cloves, and nutmeg, and the whiskey was bottled at 107 proof with no chill filtration.

The new Parker’s Heritage Collection will be available starting in September with an SRP of $170, but be prepared to pay more than that… maybe. A look at the secondary market finds a few past releases selling for close to their original asking price, while others like the first edition Cask Strength Bourbon are going for about $4,000. If you have some extra cash, grab a few past editions to compare and contrast to this newest release.

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A well-known American vodka brand is soon to hit UK stores.

This acclaimed label is gearing up to introduce four distinct varieties to the UK market.

Enthusiasts of spirits can look forward to buying White Claw Vodka in its premium (unflavoured), Black Cherry, Pineapple, and Mango options, aiming to foster social connections among people.

These variants are intended to perfectly complement any of White Claw’s invigorating hard seltzer selections.

Michael Dean, Marketing Director UK at White Claw, expressed his enthusiasm about their latest product launch by stating: “We are so excited to introduce White Claw Vodka to the UK market and give consumers a new, fresh option in the vodka space to bring new flavour to your social occasions.”

He emphasized the distinctive quality of their product, mentioning, “Our Triple Wave Filtering process sets a new standard in the spirits industry, delivering a level of smoothness and clarity that is truly unparalleled.”

Dean further explained the innovative aspect of their vodka, “By harnessing the power of the ocean, we’ve created a vodka that not only complements our existing range of hard seltzers but also offers a fresh and exciting way for consumers to elevate their cocktail experiences.”

He concluded with an invitation, “Get ready to ride the wave and experience White Claw Vodka. It’s time to elevate your cocktail game and make some serious waves.”

White Claw Vodka, launched in the US Spirits market in 2023, quickly earned significant recognition, including a Double Gold for its non-flavored Premium variant at the New York International Spirits Competition.

Starting September 20, all four flavors of White Claw Vodka will be available in the UK at uk.whiteclaw.com for £21.

This release of White Claw Vodka occurred shortly after a well-known tequila label launched in the UK. Casa Don Ramon recently introduced 11 varieties of its premium tequila and mezcal, marking the brand’s debut on the British market.

The surge in popularity of the beverage is evident across the UK.

Statistics from the Wine and Spirit Trade Association show that sales of the drink have increased from £24 million in 2022 to £35 million in 2023.

Premium Unflavoured:

Mango:

Pineapple:

Black Cherry:

Consumers can purchase Don Ramon beverages from seven different sellers, with prices beginning at £41.

Alcohol enthusiasts can acquire a 70cl Punta Diamante Plata tequila for £41, featuring a smooth profile suitable for those new to tequila.

The beverage is aged over six months in French and white oak barrels offering notes of wood, herbs and flashes of sweetness.

There is also the 70cl Mezcal Salmiana to choose from, which is matured for eight to 10 years and offers herbal and fruity notes. Prices start from £50.

All 11 varieties from Casa Don Ramon can be picked up from The Bottle Club, Speciality Drinks, Master of Malt and Amazon.

They are also available on The Whiskey Exchange, Threshers and Soho Wine Supply.

Bear in mind, the above prices are just what Casa Don Ramon UK is recommending retailers sell the bottles at and may be cheaper or more expensive depending on where you buy from.

Since its launch in 2017, Little Book has been a standout whiskey selection from the James B. Beam Distilling Co, the same distillery that produces the famed Jim Beam. The creator of Little Book is Freddie Noe, an eighth generation master distiller, the son of current master distiller Fred Noe and the grandson of the legendary former master distiller Booker Noe. This pedigree ensures that each new Little Book release, like The Infinite: Edition 1, is uniquely impressive. This particular edition is a blend of aged bourbons that will incorporate a new component annually, creating a perpetual infinity blend.

This concept of an infinity blend parallels the solera method used in some whiskey and sherry production, where barrels are never fully emptied and are continually topped off with new spirit, maintaining a blend of different ages. The basis of The Infinite will remain consistent, but each year’s new whiskey addition will enhance and evolve the profile. “Working together as master distillers, my father and I are fortunate,” Noe remarked. “He always hoped to work closely with his father, my grandfather Booker, and this series honors that wish.” He further explained that Little Book The Infinite aims to build on this legacy, laying a multi-generational foundation for future iterations. Each year, Noe plans to bottle and share this evolving creation with the world.

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For the inaugural release of Little Book the Infinite, four different whiskeys were blended together, each inspired by a different family member: 20-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon (Booker Noe’s component), 14-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon (Fred Noe’s component), seven-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon (Freddie’s component), and eight-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon (shared family component). The focus is still on the art of blending, as is the case with the Little Book series overall, but as mentioned before Noe will select a new whiskey to add for every future release. We have not been able to sample the Infinite yet, but official tasting notes describe different flavor components based on each whiskey: Booker’s brings notes of oak, char, and smoke; Fred’s provides dark fruit, cherry, and brown sweets; and Freddie’s offers caramel, vanilla, and spice. The whiskey was bottled at 59.65 percent ABV.

Little Book the Infinite: Edition 1 will be available to purchase nationwide, but it’s a pricy bottle at $200 a pop and is being released in limited numbers. You can also find past releases, like this year’s Path Not Taken blend of rye whiskeys, available to purchase from websites like Total Wine now.

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Click here to read the full article.

New Release

New Release

Despite the signs of autumn like school buses and the array of pumpkin-flavored treats, it’s technically still summer. The U.S. Open, starting the last Monday of August, signals this with its annual commencement. Over the next two weeks, tennis enthusiasts will flock to the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens or watch from home to see their favorite tennis stars compete. If you’re attending or tuning in, keep an eye out for the Honey Deuce, the U.S. Open’s official cocktail.

Last year, the tournament sold over 400,000 Honey Deuce cocktails, a blend of raspberry lemonade priced at a hefty $22 each! Fortunately, it’s quite simple to make this drink at home with just three ingredients, allowing you to enjoy it in your air-conditioned living room while saving money. Here’s everything you need to know about crafting the Honey Deuce cocktail at home.

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The Honey Deuce consists of vodka, lemonade, and raspberry liqueur, typically garnished with honeydew melon balls that mimic the appearance of tennis balls. Created by restaurateur Nick Mautone in 2007, this cocktail has been a staple of the tournament ever since.

Grey Goose, a sponsor of the U.S. Open, enlisted him to create a distinctive yet simple cocktail for the high-volume event. During his experiments, a visit to a farmer’s market led him to discover honeydew melon balls, which resembled tennis balls and sparked the idea for the perfect garnish for the Honey Deuce cocktail. The cocktail’s name, Honey Deuce, cleverly refers to the tennis term “deuce,” which represents a 40-40 score.

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This homemade version of the cocktail includes the same ingredients used by the tournament’s bartenders: crushed ice, vodka, lemonade, Chambord (or any other raspberry liqueur), and skewered honeydew melon balls as a garnish.

Related: Homemade Strawberry Lemonade Recipe

In a highball glass, add crushed ice, 1 ¼ oz. vodka, 3 oz. lemonade, ½ oz. Chambord. Stir (or shake in a shaker if you prefer) and pour into your highball glass. Garnish with honeydew melon balls threaded on a drink skewer. For a frozen twist, blend the vodka, lemonade, Chambord, and ice together, then serve in a glass with a garnish.

If you prefer not to make it but still want to try, and you’re in Chicago or New York, good news. DoorDash offers a Honey Deuce kit until September 8, which includes premixed Honey Deuce cocktails in cans, metal straws, melon balls, and a Grey Goose insulated tote bag.

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Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel

This easy-to-make cocktail, bursting with a tart yet sweet flavor, has become my favorite for winding down the warm summer days. Its appealing color paired with the right mix of lemonade sweetness (homemade in my case), raspberry tartness, and the smooth flavor of vodka make it irresistible. The adorable melon ball garnish, resembling tiny tennis balls, adds a fun twist that elevates the entire drink.

Although the official recommendation for the U.S. Open is to use Grey Goose vodka because they sponsor the event, I used my favorite Aspen vodka that I already had at home. Feel free to use whatever vodka you prefer; it will still turn out beautifully refreshing and delicious—no wonder it’s a popular choice.

Many others share this sentiment. One enthusiast commented, “The Honey Deuce cocktail was easy to make, refreshing, and sweet. The melon balls were a fun garnish!” Another remarked, “I love to prepare the Honey Deuce throughout the year. Since I live in Miami where the weather is mostly hot, this drink is perfect for BBQs or a day at the beach.” Indeed, it seems it’s game, set, match with this drink.

Up Next:

Related: 20 Best Summer Cocktails You Need to Try

Welcome back to FTW’s Beverage of the Week series. Here, we mostly chronicle and review beers, but happily expand that scope to any beverage (or food) that pairs well with sports. Yes, even cookie dough whiskey.

Horton Coconut Rum is not a brand with which I’m familiar. In fairness, though, I could only really name Parrot Bay and Malibu when it comes to the genre.

A little sleuthing tells me it is not, in fact, an established spirit but a brand extension from a mom-fluencer named Krista Horton. I don’t know who this person is, but it seems Reddit does not care for her. She saw a crowded market of canned cocktails and added her own twist; charging $44 per 12 pack for them ($59 after shipping).

That all seems very exhausting. But I like coconut rum. Or I liked it, back when I was in college or playing a hacked version of the Oregon Trail. Let’s see if Ms. Horton can make a cocktail worth nearly $4 per can.

Let’s dive into an unconventional take on a classic cocktail: the pina colada. This iteration seems to utilize a type of pineapple soda, possibly akin to Fanta, yet it bears no distinct hue. The scent is a balanced mix of pineapple and alcohol—a combination that’s quite appealing. With a strength of seven percent ABV, anticipate a slight kick.

The customary coconut undertone often reminiscent of sunscreen is present, yet it doesn’t detract from the experience. Horton brings a bold sweetness to this cocktail, opting for pineapple—one of the boldest mixers—to dominate the flavor. The initial coconut taste soon gives way to a vibrant tropical surge, propelled by robust carbonation.

Interestingly, the alcoholic aroma doesn’t carry over to the palate; it tastes more of soda than rum. The flavor battle between coconut and pineapple tilts towards overly sweet, where a drier counterpart might have balanced the scales better. Nonetheless, this sweetness does a commendable job of masking the higher ABV.

While not my top pick, this variant is rich and novel. Horton aimed for a different mark and met it successfully, if not perfectly. They’ve scored, even if it’s not a direct hit.

This one pours yellow, which is where I thought the pineapple would be. That’s slightly concerning, but it’s kola, not cola, so I don’t feel too weird about it. It smells like a craft soda, spicy with a little vanilla and cinnamon to it.

The rum inside seems to disappear inside that kola smell. That’s not the case when you drink it. While the coconut barely makes an appearance — it’s much stronger in the pineapple — you get some spicy, sugary rum working with a weak Coke knockoff. It’s a little stale, and between the limited carbonation and weak kola flavor it’s… not great.

It brings me back to Sammy Hagar’s Beach Bar cocktails, which hit the same levels of disappointing with its rum-and-not-Coke mix. It tastes like a better cocktail you left out in the sun too long at a pool party. It’s not undrinkable, and you can sip your way through it amidst awkward conversation. But you don’t really want it, and you’d pass on a second one.

This one pours clear again and smells like sour lime and citric acid. That’s more like a generic hard seltzer than a canned cocktail, and if there’s any coconut in there I’m not getting it.

Despite its apparent oddity, the drink has a sweeter disposition. The lime adds a genuine zest, while the coconut smoothly rounds out the drink with a creamy texture. Although the rum is subtle, it makes its presence known towards the end, affirming that this is no ordinary soft drink.

While not outstanding, it surpasses its cola counterpart. It appears that coconut rum is more enjoyable when paired with robust flavors. Here, the lime is sweet and vibrant, particularly when the drink is chilled. However, as it warms, the drink’s imperfections become increasingly apparent with each sip.

Personally, I wouldn’t choose it again, but for those who favor coconut rum, it could satisfy their preference.

My evaluation criterion is simple: I compare any beverage I try to my go-to inexpensive beer – Hamm’s from the land of sky-blue waters. Essentially, would I opt for a Horton Coconut Rum cocktail over a chilled Hamm’s on any given day?

The pineapple one, maybe, if it didn’t cost $5 a can to have delivered. Those are fancy microbrew prices, not airplane-bottle-of-Malibu-and-a-Coke prices. This seems almost predatory in practice. It’s not a premium spirit and can’t justify its price. No thanks.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: Horton Coconut Rum cocktails only work with flavors bold enough to wrestle coconut rum

KC Irish Fest is devoted to highlighting the culture, music, character, and history of Ireland and the Irish community in Kansas City. This year’s festivities introduce a new feature, Jameson Cheese pairings!

BACARDÍ Joins Forces with MTV and Paramount Brand Studio for a Second Time,
Celebrating the Year in Music with an Experiential Event ‘Last Drops of Summer,’
Limited-Edition Bottle, and More

HAMILTON, Bermuda, Aug. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — BACARDÍ Rum continues its partnership with MTV and Paramount Brand Studio as the Spirits Partner of the 2024 “VMAs” for the second year. BACARDÍ will be featured in the “VMAs” ceremony on September 11, celebrating pop icon and global face of the brand, four-time “VMAs” winner Camila Cabello, who is nominated in the “Best Pop” category. Cabello will return LIVE to the iconic MTV stage for the third time to deliver a can’t-miss performance from her fourth studio album, C, XOXO. In celebration of her return, BACARDÍ Rum will bring “Camilizer” super-fans along for a once-in-a-lifetime experience that includes a special awards-night fan tribute produced by Paramount Brand Studio.

In addition to this marquee partnership, BACARDÍ will give fans a chance to celebrate leading up to the awards, via an interactive “Last Drops of Summer” event celebrating the best songs of the season, as well as the release of a special “VMAs”-edition BACARDÍ bottle, available exclusively here. On “VMAs” night, nominees and guests alike will enjoy a selection of BACARDÍ cocktails, including the Moonwalk Mojito, BACARDÍ That Mango Fuego, BACARDÍ 808, and an exclusive cocktail for guests on site.

“We are excited to continue our partnership with Paramount Brand Studio and MTV,” shares Lisa Pfenning, BACARDÍ’s Vice President of North America. “The ‘VMAs’ gives us a chance to celebrate the music that moved us throughout the year, the artists that defined the sound of 2024, and the fans themselves that forge a deep-rooted connection between music and culture. With a bit of help from Camila Cabello, the new global face of BACARDÍ, we plan to raise a glass to this year in music, while putting the fans first and creating unforgettable experiences throughout the weekend.”

“Creating fan-centric music experiences is our top priority for the ‘VMAs’, and we’re excited to partner with BACARDÍ Rum again this year to bring this vision to life,” Matthew Newcomb, Paramount Brand Studio’s SVP of Integrated Marketing, Activation. “This partnership gives fans the opportunity to engage with MTV and BACARDÍ Rum through fun, authentic and shareable marketing activations that honor the best of music and create meaningful connections.”

To commemorate the partnership with the 2024 “Video Music Awards,” BACARDÍ will bring the joy of music to consumers in New York and nationwide through:

Last Drops of Summer Event in New York City: The week leading up to the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards, BACARDÍ will take over New York City with one last epic party of the summer ahead of the awards. During the event, guests will have the opportunity to dance to the biggest hits of the season, enjoy specially curated BACARDÍ Rum cocktails inspired by the featured songs, and raise a glass to the artists and fans that had us moving in 2024.

Limited-Edition BACARDÍ x “VMAs” Bottle: Celebrating music and the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards, this bottle of BACARDÍ Superior brings a whole new meaning to “Limited Edition.” Utilizing AI, each label is different, so it’s just as unique as you. The bottle showcases MTV’s Moon Person alongside the iconic New York landmarks that serve as backdrop to the 2024 awards, including the Brooklyn bridge, yellow taxi, the Statue of Liberty, alongside the brand’s signature BACARDÍ bat. The limited-edition bottle is available for purchase exclusively here.

BACARDÍ Performance Partnership and Exclusive Custom Content: In the 2024 “VMAs” broadcast, BACARDÍ will collaborate with “VMAs” to highlight Camila Cabello’s performance together with “Camilizers”, and will also premiere special custom content spotlighting superfans. This content, developed by Paramount Brand Studio, will emphasize the celebration of music, the enjoyment of rum, and BACARDÍ’s dedication to bringing communities together through dance and self-expression.

Moonwalk Mojito, Official Cocktail of the 2024 “VMAs”: The award ceremony at UBS Arena in New York will feature BACARDÍ being enjoyed by audience members and celebrities alike. The Moonwalk Mojito, a delicious minty-lime cocktail, will be the official beverage. It will be showcased along with other cocktails like BACARDÍ That Mango Fuego and BACARDÍ 808. A special cocktail enhanced with BACARDÍ Superior Rum and coconut water will be offered to the nominees during the event for a refreshing experience.

For more information follow @bacardi and @MTV on all social channels to stay updated.

1 1/2 oz BACARDÍ Superior Rum

3/4 oz lime juice

3/4 oz Monin Mojito Mint syrup

2 oz club soda

5-6 fresh mint leaves

Method: Combine BACARDÍ Superior Rum, lime juice, syrups and mint leaves in a shaker tin with ice and shake vigorously. Strain into a cup over fresh ice and top with a splash of club soda, stir incorporated. Garnish with a mint sprig.

BACARDÍ That Mango Fuego
Ingredients

1 1/2 oz BACARDÍ Mango Chile Rum

3 oz grapefruit soda

Tajin & lime wedge

Method: Fill a cup with ice. Combine BACARDÍ Mango Chile Rum, lime juice, and grapefruit soda in glass and stir to incorporate. Garnish with a lime wedge and a sprinkle of Tajin over top.

BACARDÍ 808
Ingredients

1 1/2 oz BACARDÍ Reserva Ocho Rum

1/5 oz Giffard Banna du Brasil liqueur

2 dashes Angostura bitters

Orange half wheel

Method: Mix BACARDÍ Reserva Ocho Rum, banana liqueur, and bitters in a cup. Stir with ice until chilled. Top with more ice and garnish with a slice of orange.

About BACARDÍ^® Rum – The World’s Most Awarded Rum
Founded in 1862 in Santiago de Cuba by Don Facundo Bacardi Massó, BACARDÍ revolutionized the spirits industry with its light-bodied, smooth rum. This distinctive rum led to the creation of classic cocktails like the BACARDÍ Mojito, BACARDÍ Daiquiri, BACARDÍ Cuba Libre, BACARDÍ Piña Colada, and BACARDÍ El Presidente. With over 1,000 awards for quality, taste, and innovation, BACARDÍ rum is the world’s most awarded spirit. Currently produced mainly in Puerto Rico, BACARDÍ ensures its rum maintains the consistent flavor that originated in 1862. http://www.BACARDÍ.com/

The BACARDÍ brand is under Bacardi Limited, based in Hamilton, Bermuda. Bacardi Limited encompasses the Bacardi group of companies, including Bacardi International Limited.
LIVE PASSIONATELY. DRINK RESPONSIBLY.

About SHOWTIME/MTV Entertainment Studios & Paramount Media Networks
SHOWTIME/MTV Entertainment Studios & Paramount Media Networks operates a global network of media properties accessible to over one billion people across more than 180 countries. It includes popular brands like SHOWTIME, MTV, Comedy Central, and Paramount Network. Its Studios division produces over 120 series each year, including hits like Yellowstone, Yellowjackets, Emily in Paris, 1883, 1923, George & Tammy, South Park, Tulsa King, RuPaul’s Drag Race, The Challenge, and Jersey Shore.

Media contact: BACARDÍ® Team, bacardi@nikecomm.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bacardi-rum-returns-as-spirits-partner-of-the-2024-mtv-video-music-awards-vmas-302229839.html

SOURCE BACARDÍ® Rum

The range of Beluga vodkas available in the US

Beluga Vodka is a high-end vodka label owned by the Noblewood Group, a private entity in Montenegro. Established in 2002, the brand is celebrated for its luxury and finely produced beverages. It initially won acclaim for merging traditional Russian distillation techniques with advanced technologies.

Production was first set up at the Mariinsk Distillery in Siberia, Russia. In October 2022, Noblewood purchased all rights to the brand for $75 million, apart from the rights within Russia. Post-acquisition, the primary ingredients are sourced from a distillery in Latvia, and the final rectification and bottling occur in Montenegro.

The vodka is crafted from a base of 100% organic Scandinavian wheat. The production process includes a detailed fermentation and distillation using a column still equipped with six rectification columns. After distillation, the vodka undergoes a rigorous filtration process using quartz sand and birch charcoal filters. Subsequent to filtration, the vodka is matured for 30 to 90 days, varying by type, to augment its taste and smoothness.

Though Beluga vodkas are produced using the same mash bill and distillation methods, historically, subtle variations were introduced by adding small amounts of flavoring agents and using varied filtration techniques. Consequently, each Beluga vodka variation presents a distinct aroma and taste profile, yet maintains the spirit’s neutral essence.

According to TTB regulations, the addition of minor quantities of flavoring agents is allowed as long as they do not substantially change the vodka’s neutral character.

Beluga Noble Vodka

Beluga Noble Vodka, 40% ABV, 750 ml

Initially, the combination of water and malt spirit undergoes filtration through quartz sand. This is followed by another five-time filtration with the same method and then a three-time filtration through a column filled with silver-impregnated birch charcoal that stands 10.5 meters tall.

The vodka is also enhanced with small amounts of sugar, honey, an infusion of oatmeal, milk thistle extract, and vanillin. After these additions, the spirit rests for a period of 30 days prior to being bottled.

Appearance-wise, the vodka is perfectly clear. It emits delicate scents of citrus peel, white pepper, plus traces of honey and vanilla on the nose. The taste is smooth and creamy, with a mild sweetness characteristic of wheat-derived vodkas, complemented by flavors of oatmeal, honey, and a slight vanilla essence. The presence of malted barley imbues it with a deep, full texture.

It concludes with a clean and sharp finish, leaving behind a subtle aftertaste of white pepper and a nuanced sweetness.

Beluga, Transatlantic Racing Vodka

Beluga Transatlantic Racing, 40% ABV, 750 ml

The vodka undergoes the same basic filtration protocol used for Beluga Noble Vodka, only it undergoes a six-time filtration through quartz sand.

In addition, minute quantities of sugar syrup, malted barley extract, and wild strawberry extract are added to the vodka. The vodka is then rested for 45 days prior to bottling.

The vodka presents a transparent appearance. It offers a refreshing, slightly floral aroma, accented with notes of citrus zest and a hint of mint. On tasting, it feels smooth and almost oily, boasting a silky, viscous consistency. It introduces a light sweetness and reveals subtle tones of lime, white blossoms, and a faint mineral quality.

The concluding taste is extended, pure, and flowery, mildly accented by citrus with a brisk, clean finish.

Beluga Allure Vodka

Beluga Allure Vodka, 40% ABV, 750 ml

The vodka known as Beluga Allure is processed through a rigorous purification system, passing through quartz sand five times and being filtered three times through a silver-enhanced birch charcoal column.

Post-filtration, this vodka is delicately enhanced with small amounts of fig extract and maple syrup and allowed to mature for 60 days.

The vodka presents itself in a pristine, clear form. Its aroma is gently sophisticated, featuring light vanilla and fresh cream, accented by nuances of sweet honey and baked grains. There are also subtle notes of almond and dried fruits for added layers of complexity.

Tasting reveals a smooth, sweet, and velvety texture on the palate with rich mouthfeel and distinct weight. It offers soft tones of creamy vanilla and honey, reminiscent of crème brûlée. Light almond and a whisper of caramel further enrich the flavor profile.

The finish is long, creamy, and smooth, with lingering notes of vanilla, almond, and honey.

Beluga Gold Line Vodka

Beluga Gold Line, 40% ABV, 750 ml

The Beluga Gold Line vodka undergoes six filtrations through quartz sand and three through the silver-impregnated birch charcoal column, followed by a final filtration through quartz sand again.

The vodka incorporates small amounts of sugar syrup, lactose, rice infusion, and extracts from Rhodiola rosea, also known as golden root. It is allowed to rest for 90 days before being bottled.

Its appearance is perfectly clear. The aroma is rich and multifaceted, hinting at vanilla, white chocolate, and subtle almond notes.

The taste is exceptionally smooth and creamy, with nuances of vanilla, honey, and almond. It boasts a rich, full-bodied texture with significant mouthfeel and a mild sweetness.

The ending is prolonged, smooth, and subtly sweet, with enduring notes of vanilla and a touch of spice.

Beluga Vodka represents a distinguished brand that showcases the expert craft and tradition of crafting superior vodka. Each variant delivers a distinct taste profile marked by its silky texture, full-bodied richness, and subtle flavors. Whether enjoyed in cocktail forms or served neat, it proves to be an exceptional choice. It also serves wonderfully as a chilled aperitif.

Cheers

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Fans of Irish or Tennessee whiskey, high-rye bourbon, and white dog whiskey enthusiasts understand that the caliber of your drink is crucial. Whether it’s your regular order at a neighborhood bar or a special treat, avoiding low-quality spirits, often called “rotgut,” is essential for any budding whisky aficionado.

The term “Rotgut” refers to extremely poor-quality alcohol that could severely damage your dental enamel and deteriorate your stomach lining. This term has historical roots dating back to 1632 and was popularized in texts by English playwright Peter Hausted.

In American history, particularly during the “Wild West” era from 1865-1900, rotgut whiskey was prevalent. Settlers consumed high-proof neutral grain spirits, which were often diluted and misrepresented as whiskey. These makeshift whiskeys sometimes included additives like burnt sugar, sulfuric acid, and even rattlesnake heads to mimic the taste and appearance of real whiskey. One notable example was a faux “bourbon” made using molasses and tobacco for coloring, as it was originally unaged and clear.

Simultaneously, in Pennsylvania, farmers began producing moonshine, a homemade, corn-based whiskey. Known for its clear appearance and sometimes harsh flavor, moonshine also bore the stigma of being considered rotgut, despite its revival today. Historical challenges like the heavy federal alcohol taxes led to the famous 1794 Whiskey Rebellion and encouraged the illicit distillation of moonshine.

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Historical legislation such as the 1897 Bottled-in-Bond Act and the 1906 Pure Food and Drug Act were enacted to address questionable distilling behaviors and enhance the safety and quality of spirits. Despite these efforts, the proliferation of inferior quality spirits, commonly referred to as rotgut, persisted into the Prohibition era of the 1920s, driven by consumer desperation for alcoholic beverages. This situation turned perilous as moonshine producers sometimes created products contaminated with lead or containing dangerous levels of methanol. Methanol is similar to ethanol—the alcohol type in safely produced drinks—but it metabolizes very differently, potentially causing blindness or fatal outcomes.

The methanol disaster dates back to the 18th century when distillers produced “wood alcohol” using sawdust; however, this issue escalated during Prohibition. Liquor intended for industrial uses was frequently misrepresented as drinkable spirits, leading to widespread poisoning, which fueled a significant argument for ending Prohibition. Advocates argued that legalizing safe, regulated liquor could curb the fatal attraction to hazardous alternatives.

Today, encountering genuine rotgut is less common due to better regulations and advancements in distillation techniques. Although it might still be possible to come across an inexpensive whiskey exhibiting the harsh taste and intense alcoholic odor characteristic of inferior distillates, avoiding makeshift distilling operations usually ensures safety.

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Read the original article on Food Republic.