Matthew Lillard Unveils Ghost Face Vodka: The Ultimate Treat for ‘Scream’ Enthusiasts
Matthew Lillard Launches Ghost Face Vodka
Matthew Lillard, known for his iconic role in the Scream franchise, has announced the launch of his own vodka, Ghost Face Vodka, through a collaboration with his brand, Macabre Spirits. Lillard expressed immense pride in bringing this product to life, which he presented on social media.
Ghost Face Vodka is set to debut on February 9, with fans given the opportunity for early access online. It’s distilled in Germany using 100% non-GMO potatoes. The product will come in a collectible limited-time box that includes a hand-signed autograph from Lillard, exclusive pins, custom glassware, and a digital party game designed for vodka enthusiasts.
With a price of $160, the collectible set is expected to be a hit among fans and collectors alike, who have eagerly awaited such a product. Many have expressed excitement and even urgency regarding its release, with some commenting that it’s a "need" rather than just a "want." The overwhelming excitement is not limited to drinkers; some non-drinkers intend to purchase it solely for the bottle.
Despite his character’s demise in the original Scream, Lillard is set to reprise his role in the upcoming Scream 7, further captivating the audience’s attention. This venture into the spirits industry is seen as a fitting tribute to the legacy of his character and the franchise as a whole.
Introducing the Fiery Fusion: Absolut & Tabasco’s Bold New Vodka Release
Absolut Vodka and Tabasco have teamed up to introduce a new chili pepper-flavored vodka called Absolut Tabasco. This unique beverage combines the classic smoothness of Absolut vodka with the fiery essence of Tabasco’s aged, fermented red pepper mash.
Hitting the market in February 2026, the vodka has an alcohol-by-volume (ABV) of 38 percent and contains no added sugar, making it gluten-free and appealing to health-conscious consumers. It delivers a bold taste that balances Tabasco’s familiar heat with Absolut’s smooth profile, making it suitable to sip neat or use as a cocktail base.
The launch comes amid a growing popularity for spicy flavors in beverages, with spicy vodka sales projected to increase significantly by 2029. Absolut describes each sip of their new vodka as highlighting the distinct notes of chili peppers and vinegar, along with an underlying sweetness that prompts drinkers to reach for another sip.
Craig van Niekerk, global vice president of marketing for Absolut Vodka, noted the consumer desire for heat in their drinks, celebrating the collaboration between these two iconic brands. The Absolut Tabasco vodka will be available in over 50 global markets, including the US and the UK.
Skrewball Whiskey Experience Surge in Cruise Ship Sales: A New Trend Emerges!
Skrewball Whiskey is experiencing a significant increase in its cruise business, according to Global Business Acceleration Director Juan Manuel Gomez. Known for its unique peanut butter flavor, Skrewball Whiskey serves as an exciting option for creating cocktails and various recipes. Gomez emphasizes the balanced mix of peanut butter, nutty vanilla notes, and the whiskey’s smoothness, making it an enjoyable drink.
The company aims to create a memorable experience for cruise guests, offering its whiskey at ship bars and onboard retailers. This dual selling method allows guests not only to enjoy the product during their cruise but also to take it home as a reminder of their vacation memories. Currently, most sales occur at onboard bars.
Skrewball partners with several cruise lines, including Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Margaritaville at Sea, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Gomez explains that cruise companies are focused on delivering exceptional experiences and understanding guests’ evolving preferences.
He highlights the need to resonate with future consumers, especially Gen Z, noting that Skrewball meets their desires from both functional and emotional perspectives. Despite facing the challenge of convincing cruise lines and guests to try flavored whiskey, Gomez believes in the product’s versatility and refreshing nature once tasted.
Founded in 2018 in San Diego, Skrewball Whiskey has achieved remarkable success, selling over three million 900 cases in the U.S. and international markets. The brand’s origins trace back to founder Steve Yeng’s childhood experiences, including a memorable encounter with peanut butter, which resonated deeply with him as a symbol of freedom after facing hardships.
Madison Beer’s ‘Locket’: A Disappointing Departure from Pre-Release Hype
Madison Beer, initially recognized as Justin Bieber’s protégé in 2012, continues to be perceived through the lens of her early fame and social media presence. Despite her efforts to reclaim her narrative, her third studio album, locket, released on January 16, 2026, doesn’t seem to fulfill the ambitious promises set by her pre-release singles.
Promoting locket since early 2024, Beer released several singles prior to the album, including "Make You Mine," "Yes Baby," "Bittersweet," and "Bad Enough." These songs hinted at a sonic direction filled with darker pop elements, driving excitement among her fans. Just days before the album’s launch, she announced The Locket Tour, covering 32 shows across Europe and North America, further suggesting an era of significance.
However, upon listening to locket, the expectation of a groundbreaking shift in Beer’s career gives way to a more transitional album. The polished production may shine in private settings but doesn’t translate well to live performances.
One notable challenge throughout Beer’s music is her unclear musical identity. Much of locket draws parallels to artists like Ariana Grande and Billie Eilish, especially with tracks like "Angel Wings," which emulates Grande’s soft vocals. Despite this, "Angel Wings" stands out by showcasing Beer’s willingness to take risks, culminating in an unexpected, immersive conclusion that deviates from her usual style.
Yet, the expectation set by her pre-release singles isn’t fully realized in the album. While "Make You Mine" and "Yes Baby" display her confidence, the overall direction of the album veers away from this momentum. The absence of the strong track "15 Minutes" further hinders the album’s flow.
Outside of a couple of standout tracks like "Complexity" and "Angel Wings," which embrace creativity through structural and lyrical risks, the rest of the album remains subdued and ballad-driven.
Despite these critiques, locket reveals its depth over time, hinting at themes of emotional introspection. The true impact of Beer’s new music, and whether it evolves into something more substantial, may reveal itself during her upcoming performances on tour. For now, the intentions behind locket are enigmatically tucked away, waiting to unfold.
From Bear Poop to Beer: A Unique Portland Collaboration to Make Super Bowl History
Would you consider drinking beer made with bear poop? This peculiar question is at the forefront of a marketing campaign by Breakside Brewery and Columbia Sportswear.
The new beer, aptly named “Nature Calls,” is a collaboration between these two brands, known for pushing boundaries in their respective fields. Breakside Brewery is not new to unusual brewing practices, previously creating beers with creative names, but this venture takes it to another level. The "clean-tasting lager" features an unexpected ingredient: "a hint of bear poop collected trailside in Montana from the American black bear."
Despite the bizarre inclusion, the breweries assure consumers that the beer is safe to drink, stating, “We’ve brewed a lot of beers, but never one that celebrates nature this literally.” Scott Lawrence, founder of Breakside, initially thought Columbia was joking when they proposed the idea, but it has now turned into what they claim could be the wildest beer in America.
“Nature Calls” will be available at Columbia’s booth during The Players Tailgate on February 8 and in limited quantities at Breakside locations, although it won’t be advertised during the actual Super Bowl.
As the event approaches, beer enthusiasts across the country are left wondering if they’ll dare to try this unique brew.
The Popularity of Adding Water to Whiskey: Exploring the Reasons Behind the Tradition
New videos have emerged showing Alex Pretti’s confrontation with federal agents in Minneapolis, occurring just days before his tragic death. His family’s attorney asserts that nothing in the earlier altercation, captured on video, could rationalize the sequence of events leading to Alex’s killing.
The footage has spurred discussions and concerns over the dangers posed by federal agents in such interactions. Pretti was shot and killed under circumstances that are now being scrutinized, raising questions about the use of force and the justification for such lethal measures. The case brings to light ongoing debates about law enforcement practices and accountability.
These recent developments have ignited broader conversations about the safety and treatment of individuals during encounters with federal law enforcement. As the investigation proceeds, many community members and advocates are calling for transparency and justice regarding Pretti’s death.
For more details, you can follow updates on the developments surrounding this case at Yahoo News.
Absolut Unveils Spicy Tabasco Vodka: Elevate Your Cocktails with a Bold Twist!
Absolut has launched a new product that promises to add some heat to your cocktails: Absolut Tabasco Vodka. This collaboration combines the iconic smooth vodka with the rich flavors of Tabasco sauce, marking a bold entry into the flavored vodka market.
The vodka is infused with a natural essence derived from the fermented red pepper mash used to create the beloved hot sauce. The packaging reflects the partnership, featuring Tabasco’s signature colors and diamond label while retaining Absolut’s distinctive bottle shape.
Caroline Begley, Vice President of Marketing at Absolut, emphasized the brand’s commitment to bold flavors and partnerships, stating, “This year we’re bringing the heat with the launch of Absolut Tabasco. We’re proud to partner with another icon… to add a spicy kick to both classic and trending cocktails.”
The new Absolut Tabasco Vodka has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 38%, is gluten-free, and offers a balanced flavor profile that mimics the vinegary notes of traditional Tabasco without overwhelming the palate. The spiciness builds gradually, making it a versatile option for a variety of beverages, including Bloody Marys and martinis, or even enjoyed straight as a shot.
Kate Neuhaus from the McIlhenny Company, which produces Tabasco, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, citing the shared heritage of both brands and the quality they represent, calling it “the perfect match.”
Absolut Tabasco is now available at retailers nationwide and can also be purchased online, priced around $35 for a 750 mL bottle.
Top Vodka Picks for 2026: Discover the Best Bottles of the Year
Vodka is renowned for its clarity and simplicity, yet behind this straightforward image lies an intricate realm of production choices that mold its texture, character, and finish. The diversity in vodka comes from various factors including grain and water sources, distillation methods, and filtration techniques. Each of these influences the vodka’s performance—be it neat, chilled, or mixed in cocktails. The nominees for the best vodka include both traditional and innovative brands, showcasing an array of approaches that emphasize balance, purity, and versatility, while highlighting the spirit’s evolution.
Voting for the best vodka is open until February 25, 2026, with winners announced on March 4, 2026. Voters can participate daily.
The Nominees:
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Absolut: Crafted in Sweden from winter wheat and natural spring water, known for its clean profile and wide range of flavors makes it a popular base for cocktails.
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Belvedere: A Polish vodka made from 100% rye, recognized for its smooth texture and balanced flavor.
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Chopin: Offers single-ingredient vodkas made from potato, rye, and wheat, showcasing different textures and influences based on base ingredients.
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Grey Goose: Produced in France, celebrated for its smoothness and subtle sweetness, a preferred choice for high-end cocktails.
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Heritage Distilling Vodka: Emphasizes quality ingredients and careful distillation, aiming for versatility in cocktails.
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Prairie Organic Vodka: Made from non-GMO corn, focusing on transparency and sustainability, this vodka is clean and versatile.
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Prichard’s Tennessee Springs Ruby Red Grapefruit Vodka: A flavored vodka combining citrus brightness with a smooth base.
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Sipsmith Sipping Vodka: Distilled in London, known for balance and mouthfeel, suitable for sipping and mixing.
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Smirnoff: Globally recognized for its versatility and classic profile, available in various flavors.
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Tito’s Handmade Vodka: A Texas-based vodka known for its gluten-free corn base and accessible style, widely used in mixed drinks.
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Valentine Vodka: Michigan-crafted with a focus on balance and texture, great for sipping or cocktails.
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Watershed Distillery Vodka: An Ohio-produced vodka that balances a soft mouthfeel with cleanliness, ideal for various drinks.
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Western Son Vodka: Texas-distilled, known for its fruit-driven flavors and versatility in cocktails.
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Wheatley Vodka: Produced at Buffalo Trace, known for its balance and clarity, designed for use in cocktails.
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Wild Roots Vodka: Crafted in Oregon, famous for its naturally infused fruit flavors, utilizing real ingredients for an authentic taste.
The award is decided by reader votes, reflecting preferences across various styles and brands within the vodka landscape. For any inquiries regarding the voting process, readers can consult the official Newsweek Readers’ Choice rules.
Absolut and Tabasco Join Forces to Unveil Spicy Vodka Perfect for Bloody Marys
Absolut and Tabasco have joined forces to introduce a new chili pepper-flavored vodka, titled Absolut Tabasco, aiming to capture the growing trend for spicy flavors in the beverage market. This innovative product is rolling out across the U.S. and more than 50 international markets, catering to consumers’ increasing desire for bold taste experiences, particularly in cocktails like Bloody Marys and spicy lemonades.
Stéphanie Durroux, chairwoman and CEO of The Absolut Company, notes that the rising popularity of spicy flavors in cocktails prompted this shift away from the brand’s traditional fruit-based offerings. Priced at $25 per bottle, Absolut Tabasco combines the signature vodka with Tabasco’s aged red pepper mash, offering a savory alternative to Absolut’s usual sweet and fruity profiles. Although Absolut previously ventured into spicy flavors with its 1986 release of Absolut Peppar, this launch represents a significant enhancement to their flavor lineup.
The growing demand for spicy beverages aligns with emerging consumer trends, particularly among younger drinkers who frequent brunch settings where drinks like Bloody Marys thrive. Competitive entries, such as jalapeño-flavored vodka from Stoli and hot pepper versions from other brands, further illustrate the expanding category. Market data indicates that "hot pepper" flavored spirits generated approximately $135.4 million annually, with a notable 15% increase from the previous year.
Tabasco’s partnership with Absolut not only reflects a commitment to flavor innovation but also emphasizes a broader trend of brand collaboration across various consumer segments. As consumers seek exciting and adventurous flavor experiences, this collaboration stands to redefine how brands connect with their audiences by leveraging familiar products in new, innovative ways.
The Great American Beer Festival: A New Home and Fresh Vibes Await in 2026
For over four decades, the Great American Beer Festival (GABF) has been a staple event at the Colorado Convention Center, featuring rows of tables, fluorescent lighting, and a buzzing crowd of craft beer enthusiasts sampling small cups of brews. Established in 1982 by the Brewers Association, the GABF serves as a pivotal gathering for breweries to introduce new beers to a national audience, where accolades can dramatically transform a brewery’s fortunes.
In 2026, this iconic festival will undergo a significant transformation as it moves outdoors for the first time in its history. Scheduled for October 10 and 11, the GABF will take place at Denver’s Levitt Pavilion in Ruby Hill Park, marking a new chapter in its storied progression.
The relocation signifies more than just a venue change; it reflects a new outlook from the Brewers Association regarding the overall festival experience. Ann Obenchain, the association’s vice president of marketing and communications, emphasized that this move offers a chance to innovate and inject new energy into the event. She noted how it aligns with the evolving landscape of American craft beer.
Historically, GABF has mirrored the growth of craft beer in the United States, transitioning from a small, niche gathering to a major event that attracts thousands of attendees from across the country. The original concept of the festival was to unite breweries, offer a platform for competition, and familiarize the public with the diverse styles of craft beer.
As the craft beer scene thrived and more breweries emerged, the festival expanded significantly, with the Colorado Convention Center becoming a crucial venue to accommodate its growing popularity. Despite the shift toward educational programming and food pairings, the festival maintained its core format focused on dense and rapid tasting.
The new setting at Levitt Pavilion aims to provide a more relaxed atmosphere with open green spaces, enabling a broader range of activities beyond just tasting. This outdoor venue will facilitate live music, enhanced tasting areas, and a reimagined version of the festival’s PAIRED event, which will benefit from the open-air environment.
Even with these changes, the essential elements of the GABF will remain unchanged. The hundreds of participating breweries and the competitive medal component will still be integral to the festival. However, attendees can expect a different ambiance, with a less structured layout that encourages social gatherings and leisurely exploration.
The move to an outdoor venue also mirrors trends in consumer preferences, as attendees increasingly seek experiential events that foster community and social interaction rather than rapid beer sampling. As craft beer enters a new phase of evolution, the GABF adjusts accordingly, aiming to create a vibrant festival atmosphere that resonates with both long-term enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Tickets for the 2026 festival will be available starting in June, offering both veterans and newcomers a chance to experience what promises to be an exciting transformation in one of America’s most beloved beer festivals.