England cricket legend Robin Smith has bravely shared his near-fatal struggle with alcoholism, detailing how he came close to ending his life after years of battling his addiction. At 62 years old, the former batsman, who played for England in the 1992 Cricket World Cup and participated in three Ashes series, revealed the severe toll that alcohol took on his mental and physical health.

Smith enjoyed significant success on the field, with a stellar career that included 62 Test matches and notable averages. However, his mental health began to decline as he faced increased competition for places in the England team towards the end of his career, despite still performing well.

In an interview, he candidly admitted, “If I’m going to be really honest, yeah (it did deteriorate then). Just seeing guys – who I loved – coming through taking my place.” This emotional turmoil led him to drink an entire bottle of vodka daily for over a decade, ultimately putting him on the brink of death.

At one point, doctors informed his family that he had only a five percent chance of survival due to cirrhosis of the liver, and he spent seven months in hospital. Miraculously, he survived and now emphasizes the importance of reaching out for help. Smith advises others facing similar struggles not to hesitate to talk about their problems with friends and loved ones, insisting that they are not a burden.

His story serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles many face with mental health and addiction, especially in the world of sports. Robin Smith’s experience underscores the importance of seeking support and having open conversations about mental well-being.

If you or someone you know needs assistance with mental health issues, several organizations can provide help, including:

• CALM: www.thecalmzone.net, 0800 585 858
• Heads Together: www.headstogether.org.uk
• Mind: www.mind.org.uk, 0300 123 3393
• Samaritans: www.samaritans.org, 116 123

Local distillers are making waves in the spirits industry once again with the release of Trovador Double Barrel Aged Rum. This new offering comes from the collaborative team of Devon Trevathan and Colton Weinstein of Liba Spirits, Chad Newton of You Are Here Hospitality, and Raul Malo, the frontman of Mavericks.

Building on the foundation laid by their previous release, Trovador Silver Rum, which combined Cuban-style, Dominican, and Mexican distillates, this new rum takes a unique approach. Unlike many rums that typically age in used American whiskey barrels, Trovador opts for new American oak barrels. This choice results in a more refined flavor profile that extracts rich colors and complex notes without the influence of any residual whiskey flavors.

The Double Barrel Aged Rum features discernible notes of vanilla, caramel, and sweetness drawn from the molasses, with introduced hints of pepper and dried fruit originating purely from the oak. Notably, this rum stands apart from dark rums that often include added sweeteners and caramel coloring; it is an authentic Latin product crafted using traditional American aging methods.

Once the spirit is barreled at a high proof of 140, the distillers carefully monitor the aging process, ensuring the final product’s bottling proof is determined by taste. They agreed upon an ideal 43 percent ABV, leading to its rich, bold character.

Following the success of the Silver Rum, expectations for the new Double Barrel Aged Rum are high, with a planned statewide rollout early next year. If you’re eager to try this unique spirit, keep an eye out at local retailers or consider purchasing it online.

During the holiday season, there is a unique opportunity to explore a variety of Black-owned whiskey brands that not only offer distinctive flavors but also embody rich cultural legacies. The market has seen a surge in new releases, providing consumers with thoughtful choices for their celebrations.

SirDavis Whisky

Launched in 2024 by Beyoncé Knowles-Carter and Moët Hennessy, SirDavis Whisky is rooted in history, honoring Beyoncé’s great-grandfather, a Prohibition-era moonshiner. The whiskey is produced in Houston and showcases a rich profile with notes of Seville orange, raisins, cinnamon, and clove, boasting an ABV of 44% (88 proof).

Fort Mosé 1738 Bourbon Whiskey

Victor G. Harvey Sr. created Fort Mosé 1738 Bourbon Whiskey to honor the first legally recognized free Black settlement in America. This four-year-old bourbon blends corn, rye, and malted barley, creating flavors of cocoa, custard, and cinnamon, with a portion of the proceeds supporting the preserved history of Fort Mosé.

Brough Brothers Bourbon

Established by brothers Victor, Bryson, and Christian Yarbrough, Brough Brothers Bourbon is the first Black-owned distillery in Kentucky since Prohibition. Their small-batch bourbons present a smooth flavor profile featuring hints of ginger, nutmeg, and apple, symbolizing a step towards greater diversity in the whiskey industry.

Amber & Opal Honey Botanical Rye Whiskey

The brainchild of Ja Rule and partners, Amber & Opal Honey Botanical Rye Whiskey is geared towards novices and aficionados alike. This whiskey, released in 2024, is infused with orange blossom honey and filled with flavors from Lapsang Souchong tea and spices. The brand aims to create connections through initiatives like the “Cocktails + Conversations” tour.

Arthur Wheeler Spirits Company

Founded by Floyd “Beau” Wheeler Jr., Arthur Wheeler Spirits Company produces a variety of spirits including bourbon and rye. Their 1932 Bourbon features flavors of vanilla, caramel, and oak. The company emphasizes quality and innovation, continuing to build a legacy of Black ownership in the spirits industry.

These brands not only fulfill a need for quality whiskey but also represent a larger movement towards entrepreneurship and representation within the spirits industry. As you enjoy these offerings this holiday season, you’re also supporting a vital aspect of Black culture and history.

Related Links:

• Black-owned whiskey brands
• Holiday Gift Guide

In a year marked by a downturn in whiskey sales, Starlight Distillery has emerged as a beacon of craft distillation from an unexpected place: a seventh-generation farm in Indiana. The 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition awarded Starlight’s Mizunara Reserve Finished Bourbon as the Best Overall Bourbon, solidifying its reputation within the national whiskey discourse.

Starlight Distillery, run by the Huber family since 1843, has nurtured both the land and its distilling craft over generations. In an interview, winemaker and distiller Christian Huber expressed the overwhelming joy of their recent accolades, noting that their approach emphasizes quality over the marketing buzz often associated with the spirits industry.

The family’s history stretches back to 180 years ago when Simon Huber, a winemaker from Germany, settled in Indiana, cultivating vineyards and producing wines. Through Prohibition and economic challenges, the Hubers preserved their wine legacy, transitioning into distilling fruit brandies in the early 2000s. Their commitment to craft led to successful grassroots efforts to legalize artisan distilling in Indiana, which positioned them favorably as they ventured into whiskey production.

What sets Starlight apart is their meticulous philosophy, valuing independence and quality. Without external debt or investors, the family has turned down acquisition offers, prioritizing the craft and legacy over quick profits. Their distillation process, led by master distiller Ted Huber, involves a winemaker’s mindset, highlighting long fermentations and specific yeast selections to enhance the whiskey’s character. This meticulous attention to detail culminated in their award-winning Mizunara Reserve Bourbon, aged in rare Japanese casks for a year, yielding unique floral notes and complexity.

Their second honor at the competition, Best Craft Distiller Whiskey, was awarded to the Starlight Single Barrel Bourbon, crafted by Blake Huber, showcasing the family’s dedication to producing standout, unique offerings.

As the Hubers celebrate their 25th anniversary of distilling in 2026 and prepare for their farm’s 185th anniversary in 2027, they are looking forward to launching a 25-year-old brandy and planning future expansions, including boutique lodging and a farm-to-table restaurant.

The essence of Starlight Distillery lies in their long-term vision, avoiding the pitfalls of the fast-paced whiskey industry. They focus on nurturing their craft to leave a lasting legacy for future generations, embodying a commitment to patience and quality, which is now resonating with a broader audience in the whiskey world.

For whiskey enthusiasts, December is a special month filled with delightful tasting experiences, thanks to advent calendars that feature curated selections of whiskeys from around the world. These calendars offer not just a drink each day but an opportunity to explore various flavors and styles, making them a perfect gift for both seasoned collectors and casual sippers.

Top Whiskey Advent Calendars for 2025

1. Flaviar 2025 Whiskey Advent Calendar – $270

   • This calendar, named FlaviAIR, takes inspiration from the golden age of travel. It includes 24 bottles of 50ml whiskeys, sourced from seven countries, including the U.S., Japan, and Scotland. With some bottles valued at around $200 when purchased in full size, this is an excellent chance to try high-end spirits. The set also features custom Glencairn glasses, a Tasting Passport with guided content, and a 12-month Flaviar Black Membership. Buy here.

2. World Whiskey Society Best Holiday Wishes – $69.99

   • This is a festive and affordable advent calendar featuring 12 whiskey-filled ornaments. These are not only perfect for sampling but also double as Christmas tree decorations. This playful take makes it one of the most budget-friendly options for whiskey lovers during the holiday season. Purchase here.

3. Seelbach’s Advent Calendar 2025 – $279.99

   • For fans of American craft whiskeys, this calendar showcases 24 different whiskies from 21 brands across nine states. It includes everything from barrel-proof bourbons to cask-finished ryes, focusing on unique and small distillery offerings. Find out more here.

4. Whisky Tour of the World Edition II – £199.95 ($262)

   • This luxurious calendar offers 24 premium whiskey samples packed in a handmade wooden bookcase. Gifted with two whiskey glasses and an informative book featuring distillery details and tasting notes, it’s perfect for collectors and anyone who enjoys a sophisticated presentation. Check it out here.

With these options, whiskey lovers can count down to the holidays with exciting new tastes and experiences, making their December celebration even more special.

If you’ve found yourself at a family or friend’s house for Thanksgiving without any pre-planned adult beverages, don’t panic. There might be a liquor cabinet nearby, which can save the day. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up delicious drinks that will make the family conversations flow more smoothly.

You can rely on an old cocktail-making adage: “one of sour, two of sweet, three of strong, and four of weak.” Here’s how to interpret that:

• One: Citrus juice (like lime or lemon)
• Two: Sweetener (like simple syrup)
• Three: The spirit of your choice
• Four: A diluter such as soda water (optional)

For example, a simple drink can be made with:

• ½ ounce lime juice (one)
• 1 ounce simple syrup (two)
• 1½ ounces spirit (three)
• 2 ounces soda water (four)

Feel free to tweak these proportions based on your preference for tartness or sweetness. Here’s a selection of classic cocktails you can prepare quickly:

Daisy

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces vodka, gin, tequila, or light rum
• 1 ounce fresh-squeezed citrus juice
• ½ ounce fruit syrup
• Garnish with a lemon, lime, orange, or cherry

Directions: Mix all ingredients in a shaker with ice, shake, strain, and serve over ice with garnish.

Sour

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces whiskey, Scotch, aged rum, or gin
• 2 ounces fresh-squeezed lemon or lime juice
• 1 ounce simple syrup
• ½ ounce aquafaba or egg white
• Garnish with citrus

Directions: Shake the first four ingredients until foamy, strain over ice, and garnish.

Smash

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces vodka, gin, rum, or whiskey
• 1 ounce fresh juice
• ½ ounce simple syrup
• Herbs like mint or basil
• Sparkling water

Directions: Shake first three ingredients with ice, add herbs and gently shake again. Serve with soda water and garnish with herbs.

Classic Cocktail

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces brandy, rum, tequila, whiskey, Scotch, or gin
• ½ ounce simple syrup
• 3 dashes of bitters

Directions: Combine in a mixing glass with ice, shake, and strain over ice in a rocks glass.

With these recipes, you can mix up some fantastic drinks even at the last minute! The key is to enjoy the process and adjust according to taste. Cheers to making the most of your Thanksgiving!