Cheers to Beer: Celebrating the Joy of Brew, Alcoholic or Not [JEFF EDELSTEIN COLUMN]
I have a fondness for non-alcoholic beer, and I believe it deserves a chance from everyone. Now, before you dismiss it, allow me to explain. There are moments when I crave a cold beer, yet I know that the consequences of having a regular one are not worth it.
Imagine it’s a hot Saturday morning at 10 a.m. I’ve just finished mowing the lawn in sweltering heat, and all I want is that icy, refreshing reward for my hard work. But here’s the catch: it’s only 10 a.m., and a single beer can quickly spiral into a downward spiral of poor decisions. One beer leads to another, and suddenly I’m in the position of explaining to my neighbor why I’m grilling hamburgers in my underwear by 2 p.m.
This is where non-alcoholic beer comes into play. It effectively saves my day, my liver, and even my marriage. Initially, I dismissed N/A beer as pointless, thinking I could just stick to water or soda. Yet, when I desire a beer— for the taste, the ritual, the coolness in my hand— the N/A option allows me to indulge without the fallout.
Similar scenarios arise with food too. I enjoy pairing beer with sushi, but alcohol at lunch can derail my entire afternoon. Once I’ve had a few drinks, productivity dwindles, and I find myself unable to tackle the rest of my day.
Fortunately, non-alcoholic beer is now more legitimate than ever. Recent advancements mean that many brands, especially from Germany, have produced N/A beers that closely resemble their alcoholic counterparts. They taste good—not just for N/A beer—but genuinely enjoyable. Athletic Brewing is one such brand leading the charge, producing options that no longer feel like consolation prizes.
Now, this doesn’t mean I’ve entirely forsaken regular beer. In social settings—like barbecues or game days—nothing beats the real deal. However, at home, I want the satisfaction of a cold beer without the subsequent hangover or regret that comes with it.
N/A beer is the responsible adult’s alternative. It’s about enjoying the moment while avoiding the consequences of overindulgence. It permits me to remain functional, uphold my responsibilities, and savor life without the aftermath of regrettable decisions.
So the next time you find yourself yearning for that refreshing post-work beer but still have tasks to complete, consider trying non-alcoholic beer. Your lawn, your family, and your future self will thank you when you don’t wake up wondering how your garden hose ended up in your living room. Sometimes, the best beer is the one that leaves you thinking clearly.
7 Essential Ingredients That Make Canned Cocktails Worth Your Time
In a recent conversation, Myles Garrett revealed that during their latest matchup against the Steelers, the team’s focus seemed to be more on preserving T.J. Watt’s sack record than on achieving a victory. Garrett noted this concern, asserting that the Steelers prioritized the record over winning the game itself.
In response, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin promptly dismissed these claims, labeling the record as "irrelevant." He emphasized that their game strategy was not centered around personal milestones, but rather on field performance and team objectives.
In other news, the Michigan Wolverines have made headlines by hiring Kyle Whittingham. With the college football bowl season underway, there are also previews for the upcoming Rose and Orange Bowls, where teams are gearing up for important matchups that will showcase their talents on a national stage.
For further details, you can explore the articles discussing Garrett’s insights here and Michigan’s coaching changes here.
Will ‘Guest Beer’ Rules Boost Support for Small Scottish Breweries?
Vinny Rosario, the founder of Moonwake Beer Co. in Leith, voiced concerns about the competitive landscape for small breweries in Scotland, particularly since the introduction of "guest beer" rules in July 2025. These regulations allow independent breweries to have their products sold in tenant pubs—those owned by larger breweries but operated by external managers.
Rosario noted that while there is a significant number of breweries (about 150), competing with bigger brands remains challenging due to their extensive market access and control over pub operations. Despite some initial optimism surrounding the new rules, Rosario indicated that they have not substantially altered the business environment. He pointed out that many pubs are hesitant to implement these changes, often citing bureaucratic barriers and a desire to avoid additional costs.
The "guest beer" changes, part of the Scottish government’s Scottish Pubs Code, aim to diversify pub offerings by requiring pub tenants, with the landlord’s consent, to sell at least one independent beer. Stuart McMahon, the Scottish Director for CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale), believes the demand for diverse, quality beers is peaking and this new scheme could enable pubs to feature a broader selection.
While some breweries are starting to leverage these provisions, industry experts caution against viewing them as a solution to systemic challenges. Jamie Delap, Managing Director of Fyne Ales and representative of SIBA (Society of Independent Brewers and Associates), emphasized that while the rules might benefit some, a concrete long-term impact remains to be seen. He expressed optimism, noting the evolving taste preferences of customers and the growing inclination for local products, which can provide independent breweries an advantage.
With independent breweries constituting approximately 90% of the total breweries in Scotland but only contributing about 10% of the output sold, a strategic approach is crucial for their growth. Delap stressed the importance of not only crafting excellent beer but also telling a compelling story and managing a successful business to ensure sustainability in the competitive market.
Rosario acknowledged that a silver lining of the pandemic has been an increased awareness among consumers about supporting local businesses, which could bode well for independent breweries moving forward.
Another Whiskey Brand Enters Chapter 7 Bankruptcy: What It Means for the Industry
The whiskey industry is bracing for continuing challenges as more businesses face bankruptcy. This rough year ended with a Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing by Wilder Whiskey, known for its ready-to-drink seltzers. Founded in March 2022, Wilder Whiskey cites rising production costs and shifting consumer preferences as contributing factors to their financial troubles. Despite targeting a young adult demographic (ages 21-35), with four flavors of seltzers that blend whiskey with adventurous ingredients, the brand wasn’t able to maintain its footing.
In 2025, several distilling enterprises have already filed for bankruptcy, including Boston Harbor Distillery, Westward Whiskey, and Devil’s River Distillery. These filings highlight the economic pressures faced by producers, including soaring labor costs and changes in consumer attitudes toward spirits.
As per NielsenIQ, the U.S. spirits market experienced a 2.8% drop in sales and a 3.2% decrease in volume during the first half of the year, attributing these declines to economic conditions and consumer trends. With an increase in bankruptcies, experts forecast that the despair could carry into the next year as well.
Wilder Whiskey’s Chapter 7 liquidation petition was filed on December 23 in Tennessee, revealing they are left with up to $100,000 in both assets and liabilities. The company’s offerings included seltzers like Grapefruit, Orange Vanilla, Peach, and Lemon Lime, each made with 100% American whiskey and marketed as gluten-free and low-calorie.
The firm emphasized convenience, hoping to cater to whiskey lovers without the hassle of bulky bottles. However, the market reception was not as anticipated, leading to their unfortunate closure. Wilder Whiskey’s recent struggles highlight a broader trend that may impact other similar brands in the industry as they navigate a tough market landscape.
For more information on other bankruptcies in the sector, check out articles about 64-year-old furniture store franchisee and golf legend’s iconic brand filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
Gin vs Vodka: Health Benefits, Alcohol Content, and Key Differences Explained
Have you ever ordered a seemingly straightforward cocktail, only to be surprised by the distinct taste of gin instead of vodka? This common mix-up highlights the subtle yet important differences between these two classic spirits. Both gin and vodka are colorless distilled spirits found on drink menus worldwide, yet they offer vastly different flavors, production methods, and purposes.
Key Differences Between Gin and Vodka
The most significant distinction between gin and vodka is flavor. Vodka is crafted for neutrality; it is largely tasteless and odorless, serving as a blank canvas that allows other ingredients in cocktails to shine. In contrast, gin is characterized by its vibrant flavor, primarily derived from juniper berries, which are legally mandated in its production. Additionally, gin often contains a blend of botanicals, including herbs, spices, and citrus peels, resulting in a complex taste profile that can range from piney and herbal to floral and citrusy.
Production Methods
Though both spirits originate from fermented grains or sugars, their production diverges after this initial stage.
Vodka Production
Vodka’s creation focuses on achieving purity and neutrality. It undergoes multiple distillations, often incorporating rigorous charcoal filtration to eliminate flavor compounds and impurities. The final product is a clean spirit that is mainly ethanol and water, with minimal distinguishing characteristics among brands.
Gin Production
Gin begins with a similar neutral base but distinguishes itself through the infusion of botanicals. The addition of juniper berries, along with a variety of other herbs and spices, allows distillers to create unique flavors. This process not only defines gin but also contributes to its aromatic complexity.
Health Considerations: Vodka vs. Gin
In terms of calories, vodka tends to be the lighter option. A 30 ml serving of vodka contains roughly 65 calories, making it an appealing choice for low-calorie cocktails, such as the "Skinny Bitch," which mixes vodka with lime juice and soda water. Meanwhile, a similar serving of gin contains about 74 calories; a classic gin and tonic typically totals around 96 calories.
Strength Comparison
When discussing alcohol content, the standard alcohol by volume (ABV) for most gins ranges from 37.5% to 47%, with some varieties exceeding 57%. Vodka typically has an ABV between 37% and 50%, with most brands bottled at 40%. When comparing the same ABV levels, neither spirit is inherently stronger than the other in terms of ethanol content per serving.
In summary, while gin and vodka may appear similar in a glass, their flavor profiles, production methods, and health aspects are markedly different. Understanding these distinctions can enhance your cocktail choices and improve your overall drinking experience.
Introducing Planteray Rum: Experience the Authenticity of Navy-Style Rum
After five years of meticulous research, Planteray Rum is set to launch its latest product, the Mister Fogg Navy Rum Sail N°2. This new navy-style rum, reminiscent of the spirit once rationed to the British Royal Navy until 1970, exemplifies tradition with a modern twist.
This rum is crafted using a blend of rums sourced from renowned regions such as Barbados, Trinidad, Guyana, Mauritius, and Jamaica. Following distillation, it undergoes aging in ex-bourbon barrels on its Caribbean island of origin. In a unique nod to maritime history, it’s then transported across the Atlantic for further maturation at sea—echoing the era when rum rations would roar with the waves while on board ships. Upon arriving in France, the rum is finished in seasoned oak barrels.
With an impressive alcohol content of 55.7% ABV, Mister Fogg Navy Rum Sail N°2 offers a rich profile that features notes of molasses candy, dark chocolate, toasted vanilla, dried fruits, and a blend of island spices.
This limited-edition rum will be available at select retailers starting this month, priced at approximately $37.99 for a 700ml bottle.
Revamping the Classic: 8 Unique Bloody Mary Riffs You Need to Try!
The Bloody Mary is a beloved classic cocktail known for its savory base of tomato juice and vodka. This drink has evolved since the 1930s, leading to various creative interpretations that reflect different cultures and tastes. Here are some standout variations of this iconic cocktail:
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Classic Bloody Mary: The original recipe combines vodka, tomato juice, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce, creating a well-balanced drink. It can be customized with garnishes such as celery, lemon wedges, and olives.
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Bloody Caesar: A Canadian favorite, this variation swaps tomato juice for Clamato, a mix of clam broth and tomato juice. Served in a celery-salt-rimmed glass, it offers a unique umami flavor.
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Kimchi Bloody Mary: This adventurous twist incorporates kimchi brine, adding a spicy and fermented zing that enhances the traditional tomato base.
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Bloody Maria: By replacing vodka with tequila, the Bloody Maria introduces a smoky profile, perfectly accented with lime and savoury elements.
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Miso Mary Libertine: Featuring miso paste for an umami flavor boost, this version combines traditional Bloody Mary ingredients with silky richness.
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Bloody Bull: This hearty take adds beef broth to the classic recipe, providing a robust flavor profile and transforming the drink into something akin to a savory soup.
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Red Snapper: Utilizing gin instead of vodka, this cocktail presents an herbal twist, refreshing the palate with botanical notes.
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Michelada: Incorporating beer, the Michelada combines spicy tomato juice with lime, creating a refreshing option perfect for warm weather.
These layers of flavor keep the spirit of the Bloody Mary alive while inviting drinkers to explore new dimensions. Whether enjoyed as a brunch staple or a late-night remedy, these variations cater to diverse tastes and preferences.
Mastering the Art of Wine Buying: A Pro’s Guide for Travelers in the U.S.
When embarking on a trip within the U.S., wine enthusiasts are encouraged to search for local independent wine bars and shops. As 2025 draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on travels and the delightful wines enjoyed along the way.
This year, amidst various global happenings, there’s a humorous contrast to be drawn with an amusing story about a drunk raccoon in Virginia. However, unlike that raccoon, we were fortunate to explore new places, savor exquisite wines, and connect with fellow wine lovers who thrive in hospitality.
Independent wine shops often provide a richer experience, showcasing the unique perspectives of dedicated wine professionals. Such establishments are not just about selling wine; they often curate selections that illustrate their passions and tell a story. While larger retail chains may offer convenience, the personal touch of an independent shop can enhance the overall experience.
On our journeys, we’ve discovered many local gems—from charming wine bars in big cities to quaint shops in smaller towns. In these settings, we often find rare bottles and lesser-known labels that provide a thrilling sense of discovery.
In our conversations with shop owners and sommeliers, we’ve learned about the importance of quality over quantity. These passionate individuals are always eager to share their knowledge while highlighting sustainable practices and local producers. The advice they provide often leads to memorable purchases that enhance our dining experiences.
As you travel, keep an eye out for small, independent wine shops. Whether you’re looking for a specific varietal or simply want to try something new, exploring these local treasures can lead to unforgettable moments. Let your travels guide you through the diverse landscape of U.S. wines, and embrace the stories that come with each bottle.
For tips and insights on the best places to explore, consider checking out Atlanta 50 Best Restaurants.
Introducing the New Rye Whiskey from Barr Hill Gin Makers: A Bold New Spirit!
The renowned Caledonia Spirits, known for its Barr Hill Gin, has introduced a new offering: Phyllis Vermont Rye Whiskey. This rye whiskey is crafted using local grains, comprising 84% winter rye and 16% barley, and is aged for at least ten years. Caledonia Spirits handles the entire process—distillation, maturation, and bottling—on-site.
According to Ryan Christiansen, President and Head Distiller, Phyllis Rye Whiskey stands out with its complex flavor profile, highlighting rye spice, toasted oak, dried cherries, and vanilla beans, culminating in a sweet and spicy finish that leaves drinkers wanting more. Christiansen emphasized their commitment to sustainability and quality, stating, “Phyllis won’t be a part of that” market trend of generic whiskeys, instead opting for quality and local sourcing.
The whiskey is being launched with anticipation following over a decade of preparation, and it promises to resonate well with those who appreciate craft spirits. It’s available for purchase online and select retailers, retailing at around $55 for a 750ml bottle.
World Whiskey Society Debuts Its First-Ever Flavored Whiskey: A New Era Begins!
The World Whiskey Society is making waves by launching its first-ever flavored whiskey, the Doc Holliday Huckleberry Edition. This unique offering is inspired by the famous character Doc Holliday, known for his catchphrase in the film "Tombstone."
This new whiskey is a 70-proof release that combines traditional whiskey flavors with hints of juicy huckleberries. Upon tasting, drinkers can expect an aroma of blackberry jam, toasted vanilla beans, and oak, while the palate centers on sweet berries, honey, and graham crackers. The finish is described as mellow and smooth with flavors of ripe berries, vanilla, and oak.
Alex Kogan, CEO of the World Whiskey Society, noted that this expression pays tribute to the adventurous spirit of the Wild West but comes with a modern twist. He emphasized that the master blender created a classic whiskey profile that beautifully balances the tartness of fresh huckleberries with the signature smoothness of the Doc Holliday series.
For whiskey enthusiasts wanting to enjoy this new flavor, the Doc Holliday Huckleberry Edition is available for $45 for a 750ml bottle, both online at the World Whiskey Society’s shop and at select retailers across the United States.
For more details, visit World Whiskey Society.