These five finalists for Best American Single Malt Whiskey at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition exemplify the pinnacle of U.S. whiskeys. Here’s a closer look at each contender, as one will ultimately claim the top honor.

Triple Eight Distillery, The Notch Nantucket Island Single Malt Whiskey 15 Years Old

• ABV: 48%
• Price: $500

Triple Eight Distillery, part of the Cisco Brewers family from Nantucket Island, Massachusetts, is known for its commitment to artisanal spirits. Their Notch series utilizes 100% Maris Otter malted barley, employing traditional Scottish methods. This 15-year expression is aged solely on Nantucket, resulting in a unique maritime character influenced by the coastal climate.

Tasting notes include rich aromas of sherry cask, stewed fruits, chocolate, and toasted nuts. The flavor profile features dark chocolate, vanilla, honey, and wood spices, culminating in a long, sweet finish with hints of dried fruits and toasted almonds.

Balcones Distilling, Mirador Single Malt Whiskey

• ABV: 55%
• Price: $100

Hailing from Waco, Texas, Balcones Distilling has been a pioneer in the American craft whiskey movement. The Mirador expression is distinguished by its aging process in ex-bourbon barrels, allowing the malted barley’s subtle flavors to resonate.

The nose features floral and fruity notes, with hints of stone fruits and potpourri. On the palate, it is creamy, with flavors of lemon cream, chocolate, and stewed berries, leading to a sweet, lingering finish with floral and herbal undertones.

World Whiskey Society, Wyatt Earp Small Batch American Single Malt Whiskey

• ABV: 48%
• Price: $79.99

This whiskey from the World Whiskey Society pays tribute to Wyatt Earp, an iconic figure in American frontier history, and is crafted in Oklahoma. With a label showcasing a U.S. Marshal badge, the personality of its namesake is reflected in the whiskey.

It presents an aromatic nose of dark chocolate, candied citrus, and caramel. The palate reveals notes of dark chocolate, fig, and a creamy mouthfeel, concluding with a long finish that carries persistent, sweet dried fruit notes.

Stranahan’s, Mountain Angel 12 Year

• ABV: 47%
• Price: $100

Established in Denver, Colorado, Stranahan’s has contributed significantly to the American single malt scene. The Mountain Angel 12 Year is their oldest release, aged in new American oak barrels at high altitudes, resulting in a pronounced "angel’s share" evaporation.

With stewed and roasted stone fruit notes on the nose, it delivers a rich, creamy taste highlighted by blueberry jam, caramel, and wood spices. The finish is long and silky, with flavors of wood and a hint of smoke.

Stranahan’s, Snowflake

• ABV: 47%
• Price: $120

This limited-edition release from Stranahan’s is highly coveted, with enthusiasts often camping out for a chance to purchase it. Each Snowflake expression is unique, resulting from a blend of various cask-finished single malts.

It offers an aromatic nose of orange zest and dried fruits. The palate is smooth and creamy, showcasing flavors of prune, peach, and cinnamon, ending with a sweet, lingering finish of dried fruit and seasoned oak.

These finalists showcase the incredible variety of American single malt whiskeys, which, while rooted in traditional Scotch and Irish practices, also leverage diverse maturation environments in the U.S. to create a wide array of flavors and expressions. The golden age of American single malt whiskey is on the horizon, and these selections are a perfect introduction to its richness.

DropWorks Distillery, Europe’s largest rum distillery, is celebrating its second anniversary with ambitious growth plans. Recently, they appointed Graham Appleyard as the new CEO, who aims to triple the company’s growth in 2025, leveraging the firm foundation built over the past two years. Now present in over a third of the UK’s premier cocktail venues, DropWorks plans to expand its presence in hundreds of additional bars.

Founded in 2023 by Lewis Hayes, DropWorks has gained attention for its high-quality British rum, crafted specifically for the bar industry. Appleyard, with over 20 years of experience in the drinks industry, emphasizes the importance of product excellence for brand success. He highlights their unique offerings, which include “Drops” of various flavors, as creating a fresh and exciting drinking experience.

The distillery is located in Nottinghamshire’s Sherwood Forest, encompassing 17,000 sq ft and capable of producing up to 1.5 million bottles of rum annually. Each step of the rum production process, from fermentation to bottling, is conducted on-site with bespoke copper stills.

Lewis Hayes, the founder and Master Distiller, reflects on the transformation of his initial ideas into a burgeoning brand with a range of products tailored for bartenders. The company is not only poised for growth in venues but also plans to enter the retail market.

DropWorks has already been recognized for its quality, winning multiple industry awards, including the Experience of the Year at the 2025 Nottinghamshire Tourism Awards, highlighting its contribution to local tourism and the spirits industry.

With a clear vision for the future, DropWorks is set to expand its footprint across the UK, offering drinkers a chance to rediscover rum through its creative and diverse range.

Notably, vodka remains a dominant spirits category, continuing to attract attention despite the rising popularity of tequila and bourbon. The San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) showcases top contenders annually, and the 2025 edition highlights seven exceptional finalists vying for the title of World’s Best Vodka and World’s Best Flavored Vodka.

Vodka Finalists

1. Kalvelage Vodka VIBE

   • ABV: 40%, Price: $15
   • This Brazilian vodka boasts a smooth character and clean aroma with a hint of minerality, making it versatile for sipping or mixing.

2. High Bank Distillery Co. Vodka

   • ABV: 40%, Price: $14.99
   • While renowned for its whiskeys, this vodka crafted from organic wheat and apples has made a significant mark, presenting a crisp flavor accented by apple sweetness.

3. Stalinskaya Vodka

   • ABV: 40%, Price: $9
   • Originating from Romania, it features pronounced buttery and citrus aromas with a robust palate accented by honey and pepper notes.

4. Sobieski Clear Vodka

   • ABV: 40%, Price: $22
   • Crafted in Poland from 100% rye, this vodka’s dry flavor profile is enriched with spicy and toasted rye notes, ideal for classic cocktails.

5. Summum Select French Vodka

   • ABV: 40%, Price: $23
   • Made with local wheat in Cognac, France, it offers a delicate, floral nose and a palette interlaying coconut and earthy flavors.

Flavored Vodka Finalists

1. Sobieski Grapefruit Vodka

   • ABV: 35%, Price: $17
   • This expression blends classic rye vodka with natural grapefruit flavors, resulting in a tangy and refreshing palate.

2. Tin City Distillery Chocolate Love Vodka

   • ABV: 34.5%, Price: $32
   • Infused with real chocolate, this vodka delivers a silky, creamy experience, perfect for dessert cocktails.

These distinguished vodkas represent an impressive blend of flavor, innovation, and craftsmanship from various origins. They are best enjoyed neat but also elevate the cocktail experience with their unique profiles.

Napa Valley is buzzing with exciting events and culinary experiences this summer. From family-friendly barbecues to upscale wine pairings, there’s something for everyone.

Farm Fest at Carneros

Carneros Resort and Spa launches its Farm Fest, a vibrant gathering featuring BBQ, live music, and lawn games amidst stunning gardens. This casual cookout runs from 6 to 10 PM on the last Thursday of each month from June to September. Tickets are $80 for adults and $30 for children, which includes a complimentary glass of local wine for each adult. More details can be found at carnerosresort.com.

Michelin Chef and Walt Wines

Walt Wines expands its chef-led pairing experiences at its tasting rooms in Napa, Sonoma, and Healdsburg. Napa features a menu crafted by Michelin-starred chef Ken Frank of La Toque, offering unique dishes like duck sausage and pork belly sliders. For more information, visit waltwines.com.

Vineyard Vibes Fundraiser

On June 7, the PlumpJack Foundation hosts its inaugural Vineyard Vibes at Odette Estate Winery, featuring wines from Adaptation and Cade Estate along with culinary delights from San Francisco’s A16. Live music will enhance the experience. Tickets are $150, and proceeds support cancer prevention and education efforts. Learn more at plumpjackfoundation.org.

Sip into Summer

Join Arrow & Branch for their “Sip into Summer Soiree” on June 8, with live music, oysters, pizzas, and specialty craft beers. Guests can explore library wines and taste their new label, Coronet. The event runs from 11 AM to 2 PM. Tickets are priced at $155. More details can be found at exploretock.com.

Innovative Snacks

At Bottle Rock 2025, French Laundry alum Leah Williams debuted her Side Hustle Snacks, featuring unique treats such as savory popcorn and crunchy cereal. Currently available at local spots like Chispa and Cadet, the snacks will soon be available for online purchase. Check out the latest at Instagram.com/sidehustlesnacks.

Rooftop Whiskey Bar

For whiskey lovers, The Archer Hotel’s rooftop Corner Bar is a must-visit, featuring over 150 whiskey selections with delightful views of Napa Valley. It’s a perfect spot for both tourists and locals alike. For more information, visit archerhotel.com.

With so many new experiences in Napa this summer, it’s an excellent time to explore this beautiful region filled with flavors and festivities.

A local rock band from Swift Current, Tombstone Whiskey, has entered the competition for the title of America’s Next Top Hitmaker, where they have the chance to win $50,000, a feature in Rolling Stone magazine, and a performance opportunity at the 2025 Global Citizen Festival in New York City.

Frontman Darrin Schwartz expressed optimism about their chances this year, reflecting on their past success in the contest. He encouraged fans to vote for the band through their Facebook page or by visiting tophitmaker.org. Schwartz mentioned, "We thought we’d try our luck again since we did so well last year. We’re hoping to do even better this year, and the stakes have been raised with the prize increased to $50,000."

In addition to the competition, the band recently released a music video for their new song "Mean World," featuring footage from their live performance at the Lyric Theatre a few months ago. The video can be viewed on YouTube at Tombstone Whiskey Official.

Tombstone Whiskey has several upcoming performances, including a Rock N’ Roll show with Reason to Bleed on June 6 at the Lyric Theatre, an appearance at Waldeck Hall for an end-of-year block party on June 26, and participating in the Boomtown Days Lawn Mower Races on July 19. Schwartz expressed gratitude towards their supporters, hoping the community would rally behind them in the competition.

For those interested in exploring their music further, Tombstone Whiskey can be found on various streaming platforms like Apple Music, Amazon Music, and Spotify.

Upcoming Denver Events: Whiskey, Doughnuts, & Outdoor Fun

This weekend in Denver is packed with exciting events, from a sweet pairing of whiskey and doughnuts to outdoor movie nights and free concert series.

Whiskey Throwdown & Doughnut Showdown

On Saturday, May 31, the city will host the 12th annual Whiskey Throwdown & Doughnut Showdown at the RiNo Art Park, located at 1900 35th St. This event features local distilleries partnering with doughnut vendors from across the Front Range for an indulgent tasting experience. Attendees can enjoy live music, games, and even competitions such as doughnut stacking and costume contests. The event runs from 5:30 PM to 8 PM, with general admission tickets priced at $78.79, allowing for unlimited samplings. Tickets are available on Eventbrite.

Cinema in the Sky at Halcyon

For those looking to unwind on a Friday evening, Halcyon in Cherry Creek presents its Cinema in the Sky event starting May 30. Movie nights take place on the hotel’s rooftop pool deck, where attendees can enjoy films while lounging by the pool. The opening feature will be the comedic classic "Nacho Libre". Other films in the series include "Jumanji" and "Selena". Doors open at 8 PM, with the movie starting at 8:30 PM. Tickets are available for $25 at Halcyon Hotel.

City Park Jazz Returns

Starting June 1, Denver’s beloved City Park Jazz series will kick off its summer concerts. Held every Sunday evening, these free concerts will transform City Park into a vibrant picnic space, featuring a range of artists. The opening act will be Blessing Bled Chimanga, a talented marimba player from Zimbabwe, performing from 6 to 8 PM. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own food and blankets, or take advantage of food trucks available onsite. For more details, visit City Park Jazz.

New Exhibit at Wings Over the Rockies

Also opening on May 30 is the new exhibit 2theXtreme at Wings Over the Rockies, an air and space museum. This interactive exhibition focuses on how math influences sports, robotics, and games through hands-on activities designed for all ages, particularly targeting students in grades 3–8. Admission fees are $20 for adults, $15 for youth under 17, and free for children under 3. More information can be found at Wings Over the Rockies.

Prepare for a fun-filled weekend in Denver, with unique and engaging activities suitable for all ages!

The San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) has recognized the top vodkas in the world for 2025, featuring an array of finalists in both the standard and flavored vodka categories. Despite tequila and bourbon gaining popularity, vodka remains the largest spirits category globally, both in volume and revenue.

Vodka Finalists

1. Kalvelage Vodka VIBE (40% ABV, 750 ml, $15)

   • Produced in Santa Catarina, Brazil, this vodka employs 100% Brazilian grains, offering a clean aroma with minerality and sweet grain notes. Its smoothness makes it ideal for cocktails or straight sipping.

2. High Bank Distillery Co. Vodka (40% ABV, 750 ml, $14.99)

   • This Columbus, Ohio, distillery combines organic wheat and locally grown apples, resulting in a crisp vodka with a refreshing finish and notes of apple and vanilla.

3. Stalinskaya Vodka (40% ABV, 750 ml, $9)

   • Originating from Romania, this triple-distilled vodka is renowned for its strength and silky texture, featuring buttery aromas and a robust palate with honeycomb and black pepper notes.

4. Sobieski Clear Vodka (40% ABV, 750 ml, $22)

   • A Polish vodka made from 100% rye, it reflects traditional vodka-making practices, offering an intense flavor with spicy rye and baked bread notes.

5. Summum Select French Vodka (40% ABV, 750 ml, $23)

   • Crafted in Cognac, France, this vodka is known for its light, floral notes and smooth finish, thanks to multiple filtration processes.

Flavored Vodka Finalists

1. Sobieski Grapefruit Vodka (35% ABV, 750 ml, $17)

   • This vodka fuses Sobieski’s classic rye with natural grapefruit, achieving a refreshing blend of citrus flavors balanced with peppery undertones.

2. Tin City Distillery Chocolate Love Vodka (34.5% ABV, 750 ml, $32)

   • Infused with real chocolate, this California-based vodka is the ultimate dessert option, featuring creamy chocolate and vanilla notes that linger delightfully.

The finalists present a diverse exploration of flavors and craftsmanship, showcasing vodka’s versatile appeal, whether consumed neat or in cocktails that enhance their unique characteristics.

The Mai Tai is a cocktail that has become iconic for its balanced flavor profile featuring aged rum, lime juice, orgeat, and orange curaçao. Originating in 1944 at Trader Vic’s in Oakland, California, it was created by Victor “Trader Vic” Bergeron to specifically showcase the J. Wray & Nephew 17-year Jamaican rum. According to Martin Cate, co-owner of revered tiki bars, the drink was intentionally crafted to highlight the rum’s complex flavors.

However, as the popularity of the Mai Tai grew, the availability of J. Wray & Nephew 17 diminished, leading Trader Vic to experiment with various blends to recreate its unique taste. Over time, bartenders have strayed further from the original recipe, often resulting in variations that are more fruit juice-heavy and lacking the strong rum identity of the classic version.

Experts emphasize that not just any rum can make a good Mai Tai. The foundation of the cocktail requires a heavily aged and funky Jamaican rum. Bartenders recommend rums like Hampden Estate for its ester-rich flavors or agricole rum from Martinique, although the latter can be unconventional in this classic recipe.

When crafting a Mai Tai, here are some recommended rums from industry experts:

Recommended Rums for a Classic Mai Tai

• Denizen Merchant’s Reserve: Specifically designed to mirror the original Mai Tai flavor profile with a blend of Jamaican and Martinique rums, offering a robust experience without overwhelming the drink.

• Appleton Estate Reserve: Known for its balanced flavor, this Jamaican rum uses a higher percentage of pot-still rum to create a richer Mai Tai base.

• R.L. Seale 12 Year: Produced from Barbados, this rum features notes of orange peel and soft oak, providing a bold character that complements lime and orgeat.

• Smith and Cross: This funkier Jamaican rum is recognized for its intense flavors and is excellent when mixed with lighter rums in cocktails.

• Banks 7 Golden Age: A blend from seven countries, it’s versatile and features a noticeable pot-still rum character, ideal for the Mai Tai.

• Rhum J.M 55: An unaged agricole that adds a modern twist through its fresh and grassy flavors when used alongside a richer Jamaican rum.

• Appleton Estate Legend 17 Year: A recent revival, this rum seeks to replicate the original Wray & Nephew 17 and is noted for its depth in a Mai Tai.

The Mai Tai’s enduring popularity stems from its ability to adapt and highlight diverse rum profiles while still paying homage to its origins. Whether you’re a seasoned bartender or a home enthusiast, understanding the importance of rum selection is crucial to crafting the perfect Mai Tai.

New Era Productions has joined forces with Rum Bar Rum to introduce a commemorative bottle in celebration of the highly anticipated New Rules 2025 concert. Scheduled for July 5, 2025, at the Trelawny Multipurpose Stadium, this collaboration marks a significant effort to celebrate Jamaican culture.

Rum Bar Rum unveiled its limited-edition bottle, signifying the brand’s commitment to transforming the perception of rum among younger consumers and reinforcing Jamaican heritage. Tamika West, the marketing manager for Rum Bar Rum, stated, "This exclusive release embodies Jamaica’s vibrant spirit and reflects how both brands energize and strengthen the cultural landscape." The bottle will feature a unique design, catering to both Rum Bar Rum enthusiasts and Alkaline’s fans.

The limited-edition bottles will go on sale on May 30, 2025, just ahead of the Jamaica staging festivities. Limited quantities will be available, and collectors are encouraged to purchase their bottles early to avoid missing out. Each bottle is crafted to honor the rich flavors that Rum Bar Rum is known for and encapsulates the essence of the New Rules event.

Kereena Beckford, the organizer of New Rules, highlighted the innovative spirit of the collaboration, asserting that both New Era Productions and Rum Bar Rum aim to influence and elevate the entertainment industry in Jamaica. The official launch event for the New Rules Media will take place on June 4, 2024, where attendees will have the chance to purchase the commemorative bottle and enjoy various tastings.

Rum Bar Rum, recognized as the official rum sponsor of the New Rules concert, signifies the event’s importance in both the local and international entertainment landscape.