Taste Test Review: King of Kentucky’s New High-Proof Bourbon – A Flavorful Experience Without Overwhelm
The King of Kentucky bourbon has made a triumphant return with its seventh edition, produced by Brown-Forman. Originally introduced in 1881, the brand was discontinued in 1968 but has been resurrected as a single barrel, barrel-strength bourbon since its revival in 2018.
This year’s offering is a remarkable blend, derived from a mashbill of 79% corn, 11% rye, and 10% malted barley, aged from 16 years in specific warehouses at the Brown-Forman Distillery. The latest release consists of 63 barrels filled between July and November of 2007, each meticulously numbered and labeled.
In a tasting session, the bourbon stood out despite its high proof of 130.4, which usually isn’t preferred for softness. The flavor profile revealed notes of sweet vanilla, cotton candy, and caramel, with a complex layer despite its strength. Tasting notes also described a finish that was hot yet remarkable for its texture and depth.
While the price tag is set at $350, collectors and enthusiasts anticipate that the value will soar in the secondary market, often reaching into the thousands. Those with a serious interest in high-quality bourbon are encouraged to acquire a bottle, as it promises to be an exceptional addition to any collection.
Score: 96
For more information on bourbon and whiskey reviews, visit Robb Report.
Napa Valley Showdown: County Supervisor vs. Wine Executives in a Power Struggle
Belia Ramos, a Napa County supervisor, is embroiled in a prolonged feud with the Napa County Farm Bureau that began as a policy disagreement and escalated into a personal and damaging conflict. This ongoing struggle has included accusations of sexual harassment, political manipulation, and significant emotional distress for Ramos.
Initially, Ramos was backed by the wine industry, receiving the Farm Bureau’s endorsement when she first ran for supervisor in 2016. However, her relationship with the organization soured after she opposed a 2018 county initiative aimed at enhancing environmental regulations for vineyards. After representing herself in a legal dispute surrounding the initiative, tensions heightened, leading to public disputes over various local ordinances and her distancing from key political figures.
The situation further intensified with the suicide of a Farm Bureau executive, Ryan Klobas, in January 2023, a tragedy to which Ramos has been unfavorably linked. This connection has caused Ramos to endure significant public scrutiny, including accusations suggesting responsibility for Klobas’s death, which have echoed through local political circles.
Ramos has described experiences of personal harassment, including being monitored and followed, with unsettling incidents, such as receiving a disturbing text from Klobas the night before a critical vote. Following a series of escalating confrontations, Ramos felt compelled to involve law enforcement for her safety, notably after witnessing a suspicious car parked near her home.
In January 2024, after Klobas’s passing, tensions reached a tipping point at a chamber event where Ramos said she sensed hostility from former allies. Revelations about her custody battle were shared publicly, leading to accusations of bullying and personal vendettas being used as political tools against her.
In a particularly distressing episode, sensitive documents related to her custody case appeared affixed to trees in public spaces shortly before a crucial election, prompting Ramos to file a police report.
Despite these challenges, Ramos has remained resilient and committed to her position, winning re-election in March 2024 with increased support. She aims to be a voice for her community amidst a tumultuous political landscape, determined not to let the struggle break her spirit. As she reflects on her journey, Ramos emphasizes her resolve to continue serving the public, stating unequivocally, "This didn’t break me.
Cheers to Miss Universe 2024: 5 Festive Cocktails for the Grand Finale!
Celebrate the upcoming Miss Universe 2024 finals with a selection of festive cocktails that honor the cultural heritage of the contestants. This year’s event, taking place in Mexico City, features 90 contestants showcasing their national costumes and evening gowns, culminating in the coronation of the new Miss Universe.
Miss USA – Alma Cooper
Drink Pairing: Autumn Whiskey Sour
This cocktail reflects Alma’s strength and sophistication with its blend of bourbon, honey, and charred rosemary.
Ingredients:
- 2 parts Basil Hayden® Bourbon
- 1 part fresh lemon juice
- ¾ part honey
- 2 dashes apple cider vinegar
- 1 dash Angostura® bitters
- 1 sprig charred rosemary (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Shake vigorously, strain into a rocks glass, and garnish with charred rosemary.
Miss México – María Fernanda Beltrán
Drink Pairing: Sweater Weather Margarita
A festive twist on the classic margarita incorporating passion fruit and cinnamon, mirroring María’s entrepreneurial spirit.
Ingredients (Serves 1):
- 1.25 oz Astral Tequila Reposado
- 0.25 oz cinnamon-infused orange liqueur
- 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
- 0.25 oz passion fruit syrup
- Garnish: Cinnamon stick
Instructions:
- Shake all ingredients with ice.
- Strain into an ice-filled rocks glass and garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Miss Chile – Emilia Dides
Drink Pairing: Dragon’s Hpnosis
A colorful, fruit-forward twist on the Pisco Sour, representing the elegance of Miss Chile.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz Capurro Pisco
- 0.75 oz Hpnotiq
- 0.5 oz dragon fruit syrup
- 0.5 oz fresh pineapple juice
- 1 oz fresh key lime juice
- 1 egg white
- Garnish: Bitters design, red dragon fruit slice
Instructions:
- Combine ingredients (except egg white) in a shaker.
- Shake with ice, strain, and garnish as desired.
Miss Jamaica – Rachel Silvera
Drink Pairing: Berry Smash Punch
Combining Jamaican rum and mixed berries, this punch captures Rachel’s vibrant personality.
Ingredients:
- 4 fl oz Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum
- 2 fl oz orange liqueur
- 16 fl oz pomegranate juice
- 8 fl oz ginger beer
- 2 cups mixed seasonal berries
- Garnish: Mint and thyme
Instructions:
- Muddle berries in a pitcher.
- Mix in rum, liqueur, juice, and ginger beer.
- Serve over ice garnished with mint and thyme.
Miss Venezuela – Ileana Márquez
Drink Pairing: Diplomático Old Fashioned
This drink reflects Venezuela’s rum heritage and Ileana’s grace.
Ingredients:
- 50 ml Diplomático Reserva Exclusiva
- 5 ml sugar syrup
- 3 dashes of bitters
- Garnish: Orange peel
Instructions:
- Combine syrup and bitters in a glass, add ice and rum, and stir.
- Garnish with an expressed orange peel.
Tips for a Miss Universe Watch Party
- Feature Non-Alcoholic Options: Include mocktails or local non-alcoholic beverages.
- Get Creative with Garnishes: Use cultural touches in your garnishes.
- Set Up a DIY Drink Bar: Let guests create their own drinks with provided ingredients.
These cocktails not only celebrate the contestants but also enhance your viewing experience for the Miss Universe finals.
From Starbucks to Spiced Rum: How One Exec’s Bold Move and Smart Strategies Caught Howard Schultz’s Eye
Marc-Kwesi Farrell made headlines when he stepped down from his role as the youngest vice president at Starbucks at age 33 to launch his own rum brand, Ten To One. His journey from coffee to rum is rooted in his Caribbean heritage and the lessons he learned during his tenure at Starbucks.
Farrell’s time at Starbucks served as a "finishing school," where he gained invaluable experience in e-commerce, retail, and beverage innovation. One pivotal moment came when he met former CEO Howard Schultz, who later became an investor in Ten To One. Despite Starbucks being a global coffee giant, Farrell found that the entrepreneurial spirit instilled in him led to a successful transition into the spirits industry.
Ten To One, launched in late 2018, now features a range of rums available in nearly 5,000 establishments across the U.S., gaining recognition as one of the fastest-growing premium rum brands. Priced between $33 and $65 a bottle, the brand aims to reshape consumer perceptions of rum—moving away from its stereotypical image tied to slushy cocktails and hangovers.
Farrell credits three key strategies for his success:
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Defining a Clear Purpose: Farrell emphasizes the importance of having a strong sense of purpose, as inspired by Schultz. He aims to celebrate and reinvigorate the cultural significance of rum, which is deeply entwined in Caribbean life.
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Mastering Storytelling: Farrell learned the power of storytelling from Schultz. He believes that communicating the brand’s story is essential to its success and encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to share their narratives frequently to attract interest and feedback.
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Embracing Imperfection: Farrell’s leap into entrepreneurship involved acknowledging that waiting for perfection can hinder progress. By sharing his ideas early on, he was able to refine his vision and attract investors, including musician Ciara, who became a co-owner.
Ultimately, Farrell’s journey underscores the impact of corporate experience on entrepreneurship, illustrating how clear vision, effective storytelling, and willingness to adapt lead to success in new ventures.
Drunk Driver Attempts to Escape Scene of Fatal Arlington Crash by Disposing of Evidence
A 27-year-old man, Thomas Kelly Jr., is under arrest in Arlington, Texas, following a tragic incident early Saturday morning that resulted in the death of a motorcycle rider. Kelly faces serious charges including intoxication manslaughter, collision involving death, and tampering with evidence.
The incident took place shortly after 1 a.m. on North Collins Street near NE Green Oaks Boulevard, where a 2004 Chevy Silverado collided head-on with a Harley Davidson motorcycle. The 55-year-old rider, identified as Richard Wing from Dallas, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Witnesses reported that Kelly was driving the Silverado erratically, swerving between lanes as he attempted to pass other vehicles. He struck the motorcycle as it was turning. In a chaotic aftermath, Kelly disposed of beer cans from his vehicle into a nearby field and attempted to flee the scene. A passerby chased after him, detaining him until police arrived.
Though he refused to participate in field sobriety tests, police officers noted signs of intoxication and subsequently discovered several beer cans in the area where witnesses saw him tossing items. A blood sample has been taken and will be sent for analysis. Kelly is currently being held at the Arlington City Jail.
Carmelo Anthony Enters the Wine Industry with a Bold New Venture
Carmelo Anthony is making significant strides in the wine industry with his partnership with the renowned Robert Mondavi Winery to launch a new wine named "Ode to Soul." This robust red blend features grapes sourced from the famous To Kalon Vineyards in California. It represents the second release from Anthony’s wine brand, VII(N) The Seventh Estate, which he co-founded with Asani Swann in 2022, just prior to his retirement from the NBA.
Although basketball and wine might not appear to go hand in hand, for Anthony, wine appreciation has been a part of his lifestyle since his days as a rookie with the Denver Nuggets. He reminisced about the challenges he faced in his early wine journey, noting that consuming wine at a young age was often frowned upon. As his palate developed, he sought to carve out a niche within the wine community.
Anthony recalled traveling with wine and sharing it with teammates, successfully introducing stars like LeBron James and Chris Paul to the world of wine. His influence is seen in the NBA’s increasing embrace of wine, illustrated by the league’s recent partnership with Kendall-Jackson and several players, including Dwyane Wade and Stephen Curry, launching their own wine labels.
Recognizing the money he was spending on wine, Anthony decided to invest in his own brand. He is involved in all aspects of the business and is determined to make a mark in a highly competitive market. His wines come with a hefty price tag—Ode to Soul is priced at $275, while its predecessor Ode to Fidelity costs $135. However, he is aware of this and plans to introduce more affordable options in the future.
Anthony aims to diversify his offerings on an international scale, looking to produce wines from countries such as Argentina, New Zealand, Portugal, and South Africa. Furthermore, he and Swann are intent on addressing the lack of diversity in the wine industry, where less than 1% of wineries in the U.S. are black-owned. They hope to highlight various career opportunities within the wine sector to encourage greater representation.
Through his journey, Anthony hopes to inspire others and demonstrate the hard work that goes into building a brand in the wine industry. He believes that by sharing his experiences and challenges, he can help open doors for more individuals in this field.
Is Beer the Same as Malt Liquor? Exploring the Differences and Which One Is Better
Beer and malt liquor are popular alcoholic beverages that have distinct differences, despite their similarities. Understanding these differences can enhance one’s drinking experience and help in making informed choices.
What is Beer?
Beer is an alcoholic drink made from four primary ingredients: water, malted barley, hops, and yeast. The brewing process involves mashing the malted barley, which converts starches into sugars. Hops are then added for bitterness, followed by yeast to ferment the sugars, resulting in alcohol and carbonation. Beer comes in various styles such as ales, lagers, stouts, and porters, each offering unique flavors and aromas, making it a favored social drink worldwide.
What is Malt Liquor?
Malt liquor is a stronger variant of beer, typically boasting a higher alcohol content. It often includes adjuncts like corn or rice, which enhance sugar levels for fermentation, giving it a sweeter taste. Despite being perceived as a low-class beverage, many craft malt liquors offer rich flavors and complexity.
Key Differences
The primary distinction between malt liquor and beer lies in their alcohol content; malt liquor usually has an alcohol by volume (ABV) ranging from 5% to 12% or more, compared to beer’s typical 4% to 5% ABV. This higher alcohol concentration makes malt liquor capable of producing quicker intoxication effects. Flavor profiles also differ; traditional beers rely on hops for bitterness, while malt liquors tend to be sweeter due to the adjuncts used.
Which One is Better?
The preference for beer or malt liquor is subjective. Those who enjoy a variety of flavors and styles might gravitate towards traditional beers, whereas those looking for stronger options at lower prices may prefer malt liquor. Both drinks have unique qualities that cater to different tastes and occasions, allowing consumers to choose according to their preferences.
World Whiskey Society Unveils Hazmat Wyatt Earp 13-Year-Old: A Bold New Release
The World Whiskey Society (WWS) has exciting news for whiskey lovers: the upcoming release of the Wyatt Earp 13-Year-Old American Whiskey Hazmat Edition. Known for its exclusive limited releases, WWS is recognized for producing rare whiskeys, and this latest edition lives up to its reputation.
The Hazmat Edition whiskey boasts an impressive 160-proof and is comprised of a mash bill featuring 73% malted barley, 14.9% malted rye, and 12.1% malted wheat. It has been expertly matured for thirteen years, resulting in a rich and multifaceted flavor profile. Enthusiasts can expect aromas of raisins, berries, vanilla custard, and oak. The palate is highlighted by notes of dark berries, spices, and a long warming finish that presents a delightful blend of dried fruits and gentle smoke.
Alex Kogan, the CEO of WWS, expressed his enthusiasm, stating that this release "truly pushes the boundaries of what whiskey can be." It’s crafted for those who appreciate intricate flavors and boldness, embodying the legendary spirit of Wyatt Earp himself.
For those interested in acquiring a bottle, the Wyatt Earp 13-Year-Old American Whiskey Hazmat Edition is expected to be available for purchase online at the WWS shop and selected retailers, retailing for around $249.
For more information, you can check out the World Whiskey Society shop for this eagerly awaited release.
Celebrating Thanksgiving: Cocktails Inspired by Your Favorite Side Dishes
Kodi Satra, the Beverage Manager at Tattersall Distilling, has introduced an innovative cocktail line designed to celebrate traditional Thanksgiving side dishes. Featuring flavors inspired by classic staples like pumpkin, stuffing, and cranberry, these fall cocktails aim to replicate the essence of the season’s favorite dishes in liquid form.
By incorporating elements such as roasted butternut squash and aromatic spices, Satra has crafted drinks that not only pay homage to Thanksgiving favorites but also offer a unique and festive twist for gatherings this holiday season. The cocktails are designed to complement the flavors of a traditional Thanksgiving meal, making them perfect for enjoyment alongside family and friends.
As the holiday approaches, these drinks offer a way to enhance the festive atmosphere, providing an intriguing alternative to standard beverage options. Whether celebrating at home or bringing a special touch to a gathering, these cocktails encapsulate the spirit of Thanksgiving in every sip.
Swirl, Sniff, and Savor: Introducing New Mexico Wine’s Viva Vino Wine Studio
New Mexico Wine has launched its highly anticipated tasting room, the Viva Vino Wine Studio, in Old Town. Situated on the second floor of Don Luis Plaza alongside other local wineries, this intimate space is dedicated to immersing visitors in New Mexico’s vibrant wine culture.
Christopher Goblet, the executive director of New Mexico Wine, emphasized that the studio represents years of planning, research, and creative input, aiming to showcase the best wines from across the state. The space will facilitate curated wine tasting experiences while educating visitors about the distinct grape varieties and regional nuances of New Mexico wines.
At the launch, the wine studio featured selections from various wineries such as Amaro Winery, Casa Rondeña, and Vivác Winery, enabling guests to explore a diverse range of offerings. The studio plans to enrich the visitor experience with seasonal events, wine education workshops, and opportunities to connect with local winemakers.
A standout feature of the studio is its interactive digital tasting table, developed in partnership with Ideum and supported by a Visit Albuquerque grant. This first-of-its-kind technology allows visitors to engage in guided tastings, exploring the aroma and flavor profiles of selected wines via a large touchscreen interface.
The opening of Viva Vino Wine Studio marks an exciting chapter in New Mexico’s wine tourism scene, building upon the success of the state’s popular wine festivals which attract thousands annually. More information can be found at nmwinestudio.com.