Understanding the Similarities between Non-Alcoholic Wine and Perfume: Insights from Giesen’s Winemaker
Vineyard in Marlborough, New Zealand – Home to Giesen Winery
With Dry January in full swing, many consumers are seeking non-alcoholic beverage choices, and fortunately the wine, beer, and spirits industry has been introducing many new options over the past two years. This makes sense, given that the category is one of the fastest growing in the past year, with a volume increase of 31.2% in 2023 compared to the previous year, according to NielsenIQ.
One winery that is making a big splash in the non-alcoholic category is Giesen. Based in New Zealand, Giesen has been making wine since 1981, but only started producing its zero alcohol wines in early 2020. Recently their head winemaker, Duncan Shouler, hosted an online tasting of six of their zero alcohol wines, and explained the special winemaking process used to maintain aromas and flavors while removing the alcohol.
‘High quality non-alcoholic wine depends on two factors – high-quality grapes and a process to delicately remove the alcohol,” stated Duncan Shouler, head winemaker for the Giesen-Zero wine portfolio. It turns out that the delicate process is similar to what the perfume industry uses to extract aromas.
Giesen has to this point crafted and launched seven distinct non-alcoholic wine options: a sparkling brut, sauvignon blanc, pinot grigio, rosé, riesling, merlot, and a red blend. These wines are also low in calories and carbohydrates, which range from 19 to 33 calories and comprise 4.5 to 9 carbs per 5-ounce serving. The recommended retail prices in the U.S. span from $16 to $19.99.
Duncan Shouler, the Head Winemaker at Giesen Winery in New Zealand
#1) Initiate with Sustainably Cultivated Wine Grapes: Duncan disclosed that all Giesen wines are accredited sustainable according to Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand. This declaration implies that every single grape used in the production of these wines have been grown sustainably, incorporating specific practices for soil, water, plant protection, and human interaction. The grapes for the zero alcohol wine are sourced from these very vineyards.
#2) Create Wine in Identical Manner: The grapes undergo fermentation in a similar way to standard wine, typically in a stainless steel tank using yeast. After that, the white and rosé wines are aged for a number of months in the tank. Fermentation and aging of the red wines are handled with oak chips and staves to infuse a subtle hint of toasty oak.
Remove Aromas From Wine, Then Alcohol: There are several methods to remove alcohol from wine, but Duncan says they prefer to use the spinning cone technology.
“We use spinning cone technology, which is used in the perfume industry, because it is really good at extracting aroma. We do this first, and then slowly heat up the wine and remove the alcohol,” stated Duncan.
They do this in multiple passes so that it is a gentle process. “We have our own spinning cone, so we get to control the quality,” explained Duncan. (Other methods to remove alcohol from wine include vacuum distillation and reverse osmosis.)
Blend All Components: The last step is to blend the aromas and the dealcoholized wine back together, along with a small amount of pure grape juice (no sugar is added to the wine). When bottling, they add a small amount of SO2 (around 30 ppm free) to protect the wine, as is common with traditional wines.
“The end result is wine that is 0.35 to 0.4% alcohol, similar to fruit juices. If you were to drink 20 bottles, you would still be fresh,” said Duncan.
In the past non-alcoholic wines have received a ‘bad rap’ because they either taste too thin or too sweet – like drinking grape juice. The good news is they are getting better, and some of the Giesen wine are a testament to this – especially if you like dry wines – which are quite popular in New Zealand and Australia.
Duncan led us through a tastings of six wines, and my personal favorites were the Giesen Pinot Grigio and Sparkling Brut, but all six wines are appealing for Dry January. Following are some brief notes on the wines, with calories and carbs calculated for a 5-ounce glass serving:
Giesen Zero Pinot Grigio = nose of pear with a hint of floral, with tart green apple and good texture on the palate. It ends with a surprisingly long and refreshing finish, and would pair well with salad, cheeses, and lighter fish dishes. 27 calories, 7 carbs, $16 (My personal favorite)
Giesen Zero Sparkling Brut – Light fresh nose with ripe golden apple and lemon; frothy bubbles in the beginning that transition to a pleasant pétillance on palate. Very dry and refreshing with good acidity. Made with a blend of chardonnay, pinot grigio and sauvignon blanc grapes. 21 calories, 6 carbs, $19.99.
Giesen Zero Rosé – Appealing salmon color, a hint of pear, tart strawberry and rhubarb on nose and palate, juicy acidity with dry finish. 19 calories, 4.5 carbs, $16.
Giesen Zero Riesling (semi-sweet) – A hint of classic diesel on nose, but brimming with peach, honey, and lime on palate. Nice texture with good acidity and decent length. Lingers on the palate in a pleasant manner. Would pair well with spicy cuisine. 33 calories, 9 carbs, $16.
Giesen Zero Sauvignon Blanc – Classic gooseberry and grass on nose, which follows through on palate with strong lime and a hint of kiwi. Light bodied with high acid. 19 calories, 4.5 carbs, $16.
Giesen Zero Red Blend – a surprisingly aromatic nose with ripe berries, spice and toasted oak. A bit thin on the mid-palate, but has an enjoyable finish with plum, cloves, oak and a pleasant tannin structure. A fine effort – given that producing dry red non-alcoholic wines is very challenging. This wine could even stand up to heartier dishes, such as pork with mushrooms and hard cheeses. It also pairs well with chocolate. 27 calories, 7 carbs, $16.
When asked, Duncan said the best sellers were the “sauvignon blanc, sparkling brut, pinot gris, and rosé, but the red blend is also gaining in popularity.”
Portfolio of Giesen Zero Alcohol Wines
Giesen has also developed an interesting database of wine cocktail recipes for their non-alcoholic wines. Many were developed by master mixologist, Pam Wiznitzer, and are available on their website. Examples include ‘The Ruby Slipper Fizz, The Gigi Spritz, and Minted Sunset Smash.”
The number of non-alcoholic wine brands is growing, and some classic brands, such as Fre have just released some new varietals, such as their Fre Sauvignon Blanc. This zero-alcohol wine features the classic grassy, gooseberry nose, but bursts with melon and sweet ruby grapefruit on the palate. 37 calories, 9 carbs per 5 ounce serving.
Other popular brands include Arial, Wander+Found, Proxies Blanc Slate, Dr. Lo, and Leitz Einzs Zwei Zero, amongst others.
Innovative Approach in Winemaking: Poway Winery Introduces Barrel-Aged Wines Inspired by Bourbon, Rum, and Tequila Flavors
Barrel Riot Wines, as the name implies, is out to shake things up in the wine sector.
This wine production company, located in Poway, sets itself apart by offering unconventional wines seasoned with the tastes of rum, bourbon, and tequila.
At the 2020 San Diego International Wine & Spirits Competition, two of its wines received awards: the golden Tequila Barrel-Aged Orange Muscat and the silver Bourbon Barrel-Aged Cabernet Sauvignon.
“I’ve created all my wines to add a little more excitement in a sector that’s maintained its traditions for thousands of years,” says Dan Lipsky, the 50-year-old owner of Barrel Riot Wines, who gets his grapes from Temecula, Warner Springs, and Napa Valley.
“I’m not a farmer and I have no aspiration to become one,” he asserted. “I’m definitely not one of those wine enthusiasts who dream of retirement in a vineyard, looking after grapes. I more lean towards innovation, keen to craft unique and enjoyable products that allure drink lovers outside the circle of traditional wine consumers.”
He drew an analogy between his venture and the craft beer industry, particularly brewers who age their beer in barrels that once held bourbon or other spirits.
The home-brewer points out his target audience to be bourbon, scotch, whiskey, tequila, rum, and beer drinkers whom he hopes to familiarize with his wine product.
Lipsky allows his wines to mature approximately three to six months in barrels that were earlier used to mature bourbon, rum, or tequila.
Four years ago, when the production started, barrels were provided by Cutwater Spirits in San Diego. However, when Cutwater ceased to supply, he switched to importing barrels from the East Coast, Tennessee, and Kentucky. His tequila barrels are directly sourced from Tequila, located in the state of Jalisco, Mexico.
Some part of the aging process occurs in his residence on Midland Road, while other wines mature in Warner Springs, situated east of Temecula, he remarked.
According to Lipsky, Barrel Riot Wines is one of the scant companies in the sector concentrating on rum-, tequila- and bourbon-enhanced wines. The firm boasts a selection of 16 wines, such as Tequila Barrel-Aged Zinfandel, Spirit Barrel-Aged Merlot, Bourbon Barrel-Aged Cabernet Sauvignon, and Rum Barrel-Aged Grenache.
He accomplished a significant achievement the previous year when Total Wine & More, the wholesaler, consented to vend his Tequila Barrel-Aged Orange Muscat. This varietal is currently distributed in 22 locations across Southern California, he noted.
Several Barrel Riot wines are also sold at Smokin’ J’s BBQ, which has a location in Poway on Midland Road.
Smokin’ J’s BBQ co-owner Josh George said two of his restaurants, in Poway and downtown San Diego, sell Barrel Riot’s wines in 200 milliliter bottles for $15 and 750 milliliter bottles for $45. The larger bottles include the Orange Muscat, Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Zinfandel and a red blend, and the smaller bottles are available in most of Barrel Riot’s varieties.
George expressed his appreciation for the unique aging process and how the wines pair perfectly with their signature barbecue meals. He also mentioned his desire to support fellow businesses in Poway.
According to George, the demand for the wines has been increasingly on a surge, notably in the Poway area.
“We appreciate the uniqueness of our restaurant’s offerings,” he stated. “Not only does it help us stand out from the crowd, but it also complements our food perfectly.”
The wine is also available for purchase at the Welk Resort’s farmers market in Escondido on Mondays, and at the farmers market in Old Poway Park on Saturdays.
Lipsky, a resident of Poway since 2014, used to work in the tech sector, but left it due to the lack of physical activity. He took some of the skills he had acquired in software development and software configuration management and applied them to his newfound interest in winemaking.
When he started taking winemaking seriously, he collaborated with Mission Cellars, an urban winery and tasting room located on Midland Road. Although their partnership ended, Lipsky continued to refine his distillation process.
“I do not add any fortification to the wines. Distilled beverages such as rum, bourbon, or tequila are not included in my process,” he reported. “I merely take advantage of barrels that have previously aged alcohol. The essence of the wood infuses the wine, generating the unique flavor.”
The exclusive outdoor tasting room of Barrel Riot, situated at the residence of Lipsky and his spouse, April Lipsky, is located at Midland Road’s 13625. Reservations are mandatory to utilize this space, complete with free fire pits and music, through the BarrelRiot.com website, states Lipsky.
The tasting patio, accommodating roughly 100 guests, has served as a Casino Night fundraiser location for the Poway wrestling team, and as an introductory venue for the Poway Chamber of Commerce’s nonprofit gathering, according to Lipsky.
While simultaneously supporting local community events and advocating for his venture, Lipsky is passionate about recounting his tale of innovation.
Your input doesn’t contain any HTML code that needs to be stripped or modified. The input is already cleaned and does not contain any iframe, embed, form, img, style, noscript elements, class, id, height, width, or style attributes. It also does not contain any links that would require adding rel=”nofollow” and target=”_blank” attributes. As a blogger, you can use this paragraph directly in your blog post. It’s already in the correct format.
Record-Breaking $2.8 Million Paid for Rare Irish Whiskey by Collector
Whiskey lovers who splurge over $100 for a bottle have had it easy. The most recent record-breaking bid for a sought-after super-premium spirit stands at $2.8 million for a bottle of rare Irish whiskey.
The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. reports the sale of a bottle of The Emerald Isle triple-distilled Irish single malt whiskey for $2.8 million to American whiskey collector Mike Daley. This beats the price tag on the former record holder, a bottle of The Macallan 1926, which sold for $2.7 million in an auction conducted by Sotheby’s in November 2023.
Daley, an aficionado with thousands of bottles of Irish and American whiskies, as well as Scotch, identifies Irish whiskey as the future. “Irish is the future of whiskey. I’m thrilled to be part of it, not just as a collector, but primarily as a drinker,” he proclaimed in a statement in a press release about the sale.
See the list of dozens of products being recalled due to salmonella concerns
The Emerald Isle Irish whiskey, aged for three glamorous decades in various barrels, features an exceptional packaging set. The package comprises a charming walnut case cradling the whiskey bottle, a decanter, a set of tulip-shaped sipping glasses, a singular Fabergé egg, a wristwatch, whiskey stones, and two exquisite Cohiba cigars. This package is among only seven sets produced by the distiller.
While some would argue that the extravagant packaging led to the whiskey’s soaring price, the distiller suggests that the same applied for the previous holder of the record. Its value significantly escalated due to a label specially designed by the Italian artist Valerio Adami, according toa press release by The Craft Irish Whiskey Co.
“A monumental achievement for my business,” remarked Jay Bradley, the founder and CEO of The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. He launched the company with a vision to reinstate Irish whiskey as the most coveted luxury spirit and revive Ireland’s status for creating the world’s best whiskeys. With this accomplishment, Bradley believes the company has made commendable progress towards their vision after only six years. He eagerly anticipates revealing what else The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. has to offer to its customers and competitors.
In conversation withFood & Wine, Daley stated that “the rebirth of Irish whiskey is relatively new, so I feel like I’m getting in on the ground floor.” This multi-millionaire proudly displays large portions of his collection at his grand Bucks County, Pennsylvania estate. Nevertheless, some of the collection also finds a home at his beach house in Delaware.
“Luxury scotch, to me, is already a crowded type of market,” Daley he said. “But we’re only just starting to see luxury Irish make a name for itself. I guarantee you that in the years to come, it will get to where scotch is today.”
If you don’t have a few million to drop on Irish whiskey, The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. has an upcoming release of The Donn, “a dynamically aged single malt brimming with dark chocolate, prune, and cinnamon notes, which is expected to retail for about $200, according to Food & Wine.
And if you fancy some swank scotch in special packaging, there’s Dewar’s Double Double 37-year-old set, (priced at $1,687.99 on ReserveBar), which comes with a pair of Baccarat crystal tumblers. The Scotch whisky has been aged four times and matured in Oloroso sherry casks previously used for aging Aultmore Single Malt.
Follow Mike Snider on @mikesnider & mikegsnider.
What’s everyone talking about? Sign up for our trending newsletter to get the latest news of the day
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Most expensive whiskey: $2.8 million for Emerald Isle Irish whiskey
The Perfect Pair: Why Pale Ale Complements Fried Food Best
Pairing drinks with food can often lead you to either delicate wines with intricate floral, herbal, and mineral aromas, or a full-bodied, frothy beer that pairs well with your meal. Particularly with fried food, many people find themselves yearning for a refreshing beer.
Ideally, the beer you choose should echo the flavours of your meal while simultaneously balancing its texture and weight. Jessie Massie, Taproom Executive Chef at Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., suggests that a pale ale is an excellent choice of beer to consume with fried food.
Massie explains to the Daily Meal that “A universally suitable choice would be a traditional bar-style beer like a pale ale. A quality English-style or American pale ale can both cut through rich fatty flavors to cleanse the palate and also complement fry batter spices with approachable hoppy aromas.”
Pale ales are medium-bodied, gold or amber-hued beers, closely related to the IPA, that offer a wide array of flavors and fragrances due to their high hop content. They can be somewhat bitter with hints of bread and toast, and usually have significant carbonation. Pale ales are able to find the perfect balance of being adaptable and flavourful without being overpowering, making them the perfect accompaniment for your favourite deep-fried foods.
Read more: 10 Of The Healthiest Beers You Can Drink
Pairing food and drink is an art, not a science, with many different directions one can take. The factors to pay attention to are, of course, the flavors of the food, as well as the mouthfeel and general eating experience. Fried foods like chicken wings or French fries are saturated with oil, which can dominate the palate and make it hard to sense more delicate flavors. When choosing a beer, you’ll want one that has strong enough flavors to stand up to heavy food, and a healthy amount of carbonation to break up the residual fat left on your palate.
American-style pale ales (also known as APAs) tend to be more carbonated than English pale ales (also known as ESBs, or extra special bitters), so if you’re eating something really greasy, you may want to go American to thoroughly cleanse your palate. In either case, the beer’s flavor won’t get lost in the richness of the food, and the carbonation will be extra refreshing between bites.
Massie also advises diners to pay attention to the IBU of a beer, which stands for International Bitterness Units and, as you can probably guess, measures how bitter a beer is. Pale ales typically have an IBU in the range of 30 to 50 (with a score of 120 indicating maximum bitterness), and Massie advises diners to lean toward the lower end of this range.
“Bitterness isn’t all bad, but not all dishes will benefit from a bitter beer,” Massie said. “Generally with fried foods, like classic pub foods, I usually recommend going middle-of-the-road and choosing a beer somewhere in the range of 25 to 45 IBU.” Most breweries don’t print the IBUs on bottle labels, so you might want to do a little research before hitting the store.
The actual flavor notes of both styles of pale ales can vary widely, but English pale ales tend to have a little bit more malty sweetness alongside the hoppy bitterness, offering notes of caramel or toffee. American pale ales typically offer more hops and are known for their more bitter flavor profiles. In fact, the company Massie works for, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., is generally recognized as having invented this style of beer through its incorporation of Cascade hops, which offers a grapefruit-like taste and aroma. American-style pale ales will be predictably easier to find in the U.S. than other kinds, especially if you don’t have access to a solid bottle shop.
Read the original article on Daily Meal.
Innovating the Wine Industry: Poway Winery’s Barrel-aged Wines with Bourbon, Rum and Tequila Flavors
Barrel Riot Wines, as suggested by its name, has the objective to cause a significant change in the wine market.
Located in Poway, this wine manufacturer achieves its aim by creating unconventional wines imbued with the distinctive zest and aroma of rum, bourbon, and tequila.
In the 2020 San Diego International Wine & Spirits Challenge, it gained critical acclaim for its exquisite Tequila Barrel-Aged Orange Muscat, which won the Gold, and the Bourbon Barrel-Aged Cabernet Sauvignon that secured a Silver.
“All the wines I create aim to inject a bit more excitement into an industry that has largely remained conventional for centuries,” says Dan Lipsky, the 50-year-old owner of Barrel Riot Wines. The grapes for his wines are sourced from some of the most renowned vineyards in Temecula, Warner Springs, and Napa Valley.
“I’m not a farmer and I have no desire to be a farmer,” he said. “I’m definitely not one of those wine guys that wants to retire on a vineyard and take care of grapes. I’m more cutting-edge, wanting to create unique, fun products that will entice other drinkers than traditional wine drinkers.”
He compared his enterprise to the craft beer industry and brewers who age their beer in barrels that once contained bourbon or other spirits.
The home-brewer says his target market is bourbon, scotch, whiskey, tequila, rum and beer drinkers, who he wants to introduce to the wine product.
Lipsky ages his wines for roughly three to six months in barrels that were formerly used to age bourbon, rum or tequila.
Four years ago, at the start of production, barrels were obtained from Cutwater Spirits in San Diego. However, when Cutwater ceased their supply, barrels began being imported from the East Coast, Tennessee, and Kentucky. Tequila barrels are sourced directly from Tequila, Mexico, specifically in the state of Jalisco.
A portion of the aging process happens at his residence on Midland Road, while other wines are aged in Warner Springs, positioned to the east of Temecula.
Lipsky states that Barrel Riot Wines is among a select few companies in the sector that are primarily dedicated to rum-, tequila-, and bourbon-enhanced wines. Their product list includes 16 wines, such as Tequila Barrel-Aged Zinfandel, Spirit Barrel-Aged Merlot, Bourbon Barrel-Aged Cabernet Sauvignon, and Rum Barrel-Aged Grenache.
Last year concluded with a significant achievement when Total Wine & More, a wholesaler, consented to market his Tequila Barrel-Aged Orange Muscat. This varietal is currently distributed to 22 locations in Southern California.
Your HTML code does not contain any item that needs to be removed or modified as per your instructions. Your given code is pretty clean and doesn’t contain any link, iframe, embed, form, img, style, noscript elements or id, class, style, width, height attributes.
Therefore, your given code can be used as it is. Here’s the same code:
<p>Several Barrel Riot wines are also sold at Smokin’ J’s BBQ, which has a location in Poway on Midland Road.</p>
<p>Smokin’ J’s BBQ co-owner Josh George said two of his restaurants, in Poway and downtown San Diego, sell Barrel Riot’s wines in 200 milliliter bottles for $15 and 750 milliliter bottles for $45. The larger bottles include the Orange Muscat, Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Zinfandel and a red blend, and the smaller bottles are available in most of Barrel Riot’s varieties.</p>
<p>George said he likes the uniqueness of the aging process, and the wines pair nicely with the barbecue meals they serve. He also thought it would be nice to support another Poway business, he said.</p>
<p>Demand for the wines is starting to pick up steam, especially in Poway, George added.</p>
Please let me know if you have any other instructions.
“It’s a unique offering for a restaurant, which we really like,” he said. “It helps differentiate ourselves and it helps that it goes along nicely with the food.”
The wine is also sold at the Farmers Market at Welk Resort in Escondido on Mondays and at the Poway Farmers Market Saturdays near Old Poway Park.
Lipsky, a Poway resident since 2014, worked in the tech industry until he got burned out from sitting in front of a computer all day. He began to take some of the skills he used in software development while working in software configuration management and applied them to his winemaking craft.
When his dabbling turned serious, he began partnering with Mission Cellars urban winery and tasting room, also on Midland Road. Although the partnership fizzled, Lipsky continued to hone his spirit aging process.
“I don’t fortify the wines. I don’t pour any rum, bourbon or tequila in the wine,” he said. “I simply use barrels that have aged alcohol before. The flavor of the wood seeps into the wine and creates that flavor.”
Barrel Riot’s private outdoor tasting room at the home of Lipsky and his wife, April Lipsky, is at 13625 Midland Road. Reservations are required through the BarrelRiot.com website to use the outdoor space with complimentary firepits and music, Lipsky said.
The tasting patio, which can fit about 100 people, has been used as a Casino Night fundraiser for the Poway wrestling team and as a meet-and-greet venue for the Poway Chamber of Commerce’s nonprofit meeting, Lipsky said.
Along with supporting community events and promoting his business, Lipsky is eager to share his story of disruption.
“Even the logo on the bottles shows a little bit of a story of how the barrels were created,” he said. “The logo has a barrel with flames coming out. That’s how they prepare the spirit barrels. Before they put a spirit in the barrel they char the inside of the barrel. It looks like a barrel with flames coming out of it.”
Record-Breaking Sale: Irish Single Malt Crowned as the Priciest Whiskey Ever Sold
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Robb Report may receive an affiliate commission.
It feels like it was just yesterday that we reported on the most expensive bottle of whiskey ever sold at auction. Well, just like that the record’s been broken, but the whiskey in question might surprise you: It’s a bottle of Irish single malt that comes with a Faberge egg.
More from Robb Report
Manhattan’s Only Whiskey Distillery Just Dropped a Bourbon With Some Serious Smoke
Taste Test: This New American Single Malt is One of the Best That We’ve Tried
Garrison Brothers Is Bringing Back Its Big, Bold Port-Finished Bourbon
Typically, the bottles of whiskey (or whisky, most of the time) that sell for millions at auction are single malt scotch, and the most recent earth-shattering sale was a bottle of The Macallan 1926. This 60-year-old whisky became the most expensive ever sold when the hammer dropped at a Sotheby’s auction in November when someone paid $2.7 million for it. But last week came news that whiskey collector Mike Daley purchased The Craft Irish Whiskey Co.’s The Emerald Isle set for $100,000 more, setting a new record at $2.8 million.
So what makes this whiskey so special? The actual liquid itself sounds kind of standard, at least in the ultra-premium category. It’s a triple-distilled, 30-year-old Irish single malt whiskey aged in bourbon and sherry casks, something you could find from Bushmills for about $2,000 instead of $2 million. But The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. is known for its luxury packaging and exclusivity, and both apply here. Just seven sets of this particular whiskey were released, and each bottle comes inside a walnut case that has a Faberge egg with an emerald inside, a custom Faberge timepiece, and a couple of Cohiba cigars from Cuba.
According to Daley, who made his money by investing in hyaluronic acid, Irish whiskey is the future of whiskey overall. “The rebirth of Irish whiskey is relatively new, so I feel like I’m getting in on the ground floor,” he said in a statement. “Luxury scotch, to me, is already a crowded type of market. But we’re only just starting to see luxury Irish make a name for itself. I guarantee you that in the years to come, it will get to where scotch is today.”
As for The Craft Irish Whiskey Co., founder Jay Bradley’s goal was always to make Irish whiskey a luxury category, and this brings that vision one step closer to realization. You probably won’t find another Emerald Isle set for sale at the moment, but The Brollach single malt set is now available for pre-order from ReserveBar for just under eight grand.
Best of Robb Report
Why a Heritage Turkey Is the Best Thanksgiving Bird—and How to Get One
9 Stellar West Coast Pinot Noirs to Drink Right Now
The 10 Best Wines to Pair With Steak, From Cabernet to Malbec
Sign up for Robb Report’s Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Twitter Abuzz with Memes on This Viral Wine Brand
The most luxurious wines usually have fancy names to match: Chateau Lafite Rothschild, Dom Pérignon, Domaine d’Auvenay, the list goes on. Figuring out how to pronounce the label on your bottle is almost as tough as selecting which one you should buy in the first place. But right now, the name on everybody’s lips is decidedly more simple: Josh.
If you’ve ever browsed the shelves of your local wine shop in search of an affordable Cab Sauv, a bottle from Josh Cellars was likely for sale. Since founded in 2007, the California-based winery has expanded their repertoire to include 11 varietals.
Joseph Carr named the brand after his father, a military veteran who also worked as a lumberjack and firefighter. The brand honors Josh’s legacy with every bottle. And for the past week, that legacy has taken on a life of its own.
Earlier this month, a user on X shared a post about the brand’s Merlot. What started as an entirely earnest suggestion became a launchpad for online memes poking fun at the name.
I’m not gonna keep telling y’all to grow up and leave that Stella & Barefoot alone pic.twitter.com/XrkSN7zukC
— King Pisces 🔱🧸 (@OptimusGrind__) January 7, 2024
With a suggested price of $17.99 a bottle, many users argued that Josh Cellars Merlot isn’t as much of an upgrade from Barefoot and Stella Rosa wine as the original post may lead us to believe. As well-balanced and delicious as it may be, ordering a glass of Josh feels just a little bit silly.
And then the memes started taking over our social media feeds like a tidal wave.
got the results back from the doctor and i’m afraid to say i got that josh in me pic.twitter.com/rKIvRNU7Wt
— horse dentist (@equine__dentist) January 11, 2024
Pour up (Josh), head shot (Josh)
Sit down (Josh), stand up (Josh)
Pass out (Josh), wake up (Josh)
Faded (Josh), faded (Josh)
— swag (@chillextremist) January 11, 2024
Me and the boys after a bottle of Josh wine pic.twitter.com/d1EQIGqgD5
— Vincent A DiGeronimo (@vincedige) January 13, 2024
The memes surrounding Josh wine have provided the winery with more exposure than ever. Data from Google indicates that interest in Josh wine has never been higher. It’s too soon to tell, but there’s a good chance that this newfound brand attention will translate into a Josh renaissance.
How has Josh Cellars been handling all the memes? According to Dan Kleinman, Chief Brand Officer of Josh Cellars, they’re taking the jokes in stride. “The wittiness of these posts have captivated us and we’re delighted to see our brand be part of the broader social media conversation,” he says. “Let the memes flow!”
You Might Also Like
Securing Limited-Edition Paczki Day Vodka from Detroit City Distillery: A How-to Guide
Mark your calendar and set an alarm. The once-a-year offering of Paczki Day Vodka from a local distillery is set.
Detroit City Distillery will begin offering its Paczki Day Vodka, a popular spirit infused with beloved and locally made paczki pastries, as they have for the past several years.
On Tuesday, the distillery announced the online sales for the limited edition Paczki Day Vodka ($35 per 750-milliliter bottle) will begin at 8 a.m. via detroitcitydistillery.com/shop on Jan. 26. Orders placed that day will be available for pick up at 4 p.m. the same day. (You can also buy at some local stores, including grocery stores.)
This year, the distillery announced they’ve also increased the supply of vodka that can be shipped nationwide to select states. Detroit City Distillery said they can ship outstate via new partner Seelbach’s, an online distributor.
Conceived as an experiment, the paczki-infused vodka, free of preservatives, was born over half a decade ago when the idea to combine these two elements came to the distillery.
“The evolution of what began as a small experiment to create 20 bottles for just close kin and friends six years ago into a widely accepted tradition in Michigan’s Polish community and reaching families and communities across the country has been a wonderful journey,” quoted J.P. Jerome, the master distiller and co-owner of Detroit City Distillery. “We’ve seen visitors from far and wide, coming to us right here in Detroit, just to acquire this annual spirit for their Pączki Day celebrations back with their families, also known as Fat Tuesday.”
The distinct feature of the vodka is that it is distilled with authentic raspberry-filled and glazed paczki procured from the well-established and favorite New Palace Bakery located in Hamtramck. The out-of-the-box blend is prepared using 100% potato vodka from Poland and Michigan in a 500-gallon copper apparatus. Another differentiating factor of the vodka is that its bottles are sourced from Poland.
Jerome went on to add, “We like thinking of it as a Pączki Day Festival confined in a bottle. Clocking in at 88 proof, it’s of optimum smoothness, and the authentic taste of the raspberry and buttery pastry of the paczki is very noticeable.”
You can enjoy the vodka served cold over ice, combined in a cocktail, or accompanying a pączki.
The term pączki, representing the doughnut in excess, comes filled with a diverse range of fruit and cream and is topped off with icing sugar or a glaze. Traditional varieties feature flavors such as raspberry, lemon, and custard.
Every year, a communal festivity also takes place on the day of PDV. This year the event is scheduled for Feb. 10 at the distillery’s venue in Eastern Market Tasting Room, located at 2462 Riopelle, Detroit. The event will be conducted from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. both inside the venue and in the patio area outside, extending to an entire block. The menu includes food for sale, comprising of Polish delicacies along with PDV cocktails and the regular drink menu of the distillery.
The distillery is recognized for its commendable, small-batch crafted bourbon, whiskey, rye, gin, and vodka that use local ingredients. In the year 2023, DCD was globally recognized at the World Spirits Competition at San Francisco. Its products, Butcher’s Cut Bourbon, and Homegrown Rye whiskies, each secured a Double-Gold Medal.
Contact Detroit Free Press food and restaurant writer Susan Selasky and send food and restaurant news and tips to: sselasky@freepress.com. Follow @SusanMariecooks on Twitter. Subscribe to the Free Press.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Paczki Day Vodka: How to get Detroit City Distillery spirit
Florida Man Responds to Speeding Driver with Beer Can and AR-15: An Intriguing Incident Reported By Sheriff
Fox News Flash top headlines are here. Check out what’s clicking on Foxnews.com.
A Florida man was arrested after throwing a beer at a vehicle he believed was going too fast in his neighborhood, subsequently leading him to shoot his AR-15 rifle, according to officials.
Eric Proctor told investigators that he threw a beer can at a vehicle because the driver was speeding in the neighborhood and that he then confronted the driver about speeding, Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said in a video posted to social media.
Proctor said he was going to grab his AR-15 and returned to fire his gun, Judd said.
FLORIDA POLICE IMPOSE OLD-FASHIONED PUNISHMENT ON TEENS THROWING EGGS: ‘A COMPROMISE WAS ORGANIZED’
Eric Proctor said he threw a beer can at a vehicle because the driver was speeding in the neighborhood, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. He later confronted the driver about driving too fast. (Polk County Sheriff’s Office)
“He went to his house, and he comes out with his rifle, and the dude shoots three times,” Judd said. “Once in the air and twice on the ground.”
Deputies said Proctor denied the allegations against him, but Judd revealed neighborhood video footage showing a man believed to be Proctor in the act.
Neighborhood video footage captured a man believed to be Eric Proctor carrying his rifle back into the house after shooting it at the ground and in the air. (Polk County Sheriff’s Office)
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
Proctor is facing felony charges of aggravated assault and is being held in the county jail.
“If you’re that stirred up, just call us,” Judd said. “We’ll deal with it, and you won’t end up in jail charged with a felony.”
Fox News’ “Antisemitism Exposed” newsletter brings you stories on the rising anti-Jewish prejudice across the U.S. and the world.
Subscribed
You’ve successfully subscribed to this newsletter!
Expectation of Rum Market Soaring to US$ 35.5 Billion by 2033, as Per Persistence Market Research
The rum market is projected to grow at a 3.9% CAGR by 2033, driven by millennials who prefer its affordability and desired alcohol content. Their significant spending power and preference for rum over other drinks contribute to the global market’s growth.
New York, Jan. 15, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rum Market: A Spirited Outlook
Rum is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from sugarcane byproducts, such as molasses or sugarcane juice. It is widely consumed globally and has diverse applications in cocktails, spirits, and culinary uses. The global Rum market is currently valued at USD 17.6 billion. With a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.9%, the market is anticipated to reach USD 35.5 billion by 2023–2033. The market growth is attributed to the increasing popularity of Rum-based cocktails, the rising demand for premium and craft spirits, and the exploration of new flavor profiles.
Rum is a distilled alcoholic beverage renowned for its versatility and complex taste profile. Originating from the Caribbean but now produced worldwide, it is characterized by its unique fermentation and distillation processes. Categorized into various types, including white, dark, spiced, and aged rums, the market caters to diverse consumer preferences. As a key ingredient in classic cocktails and a standalone sipping spirit, rum continues to gain popularity across different demographic segments.
The Rum Market has seen considerable expansion over the recent years, largely fueled by a renewed fascination with craft and high-quality spirits. The market has been stirred by customers yearning to discover unique and exciting flavors, paving the way for an uptick in small-scale and artisanal rum production. Additionally, the proliferation of cocktail culture and the popularity of mixology have cemented rum’s place as a versatile and critical spirit. With renewed interest in vintage and aged variations, the rum market stands on the precipice of continued growth, attracting both conventional aficionados and avant-garde enthusiasts alike.
Delve deeper into this industry’s competitive scene with a sample of the report here.
The scope of the rum market report covers:
Details
Market Revenue 2023
USD 17.6 billion
Estimated Revenue 2033
USD 35.5 billion
Growth Rate – CAGR
3.9 %
Forecast Period
2023-2033
No. of Pages
292 Pages
Key Market Segments Covered
Type
Nature
Sales Channel
Region
Regions Covered
North America
Latin America
Europe
South Asia & Pacific
East Asia
The Middle East & Africa
Key Companies Profiled
Diageo PLC
Pernod Ricard SA
William Grant & Sons Ltd.
Remy Cointreau Group
Westerhall Estate Ltd.
Cayman Spirits Co.
Mohan Meakin Ltd.
Halewood International Holdings PLC
Suntory Holdings Limited
Arehucas
What are the Key Trends in the Market for Rum?
The rum industry is navigating a path to prosperous times due to an uptick in the demand for upscale, inventive and earth-friendly products. We present 10 prevalent trends and innovations that are molding the sector:
1. Premiumization: An increasing number of customers are on the lookout for superior-quality, mature rums that carry intricate flavor mixes. Craft distilleries and autonomous bottlers are spearheading this drive, introducing one-of-a-kind expressions from a range of regions and variants of sugarcane.
2. Flavor Innovation: The spotlight is shifting away from vanilla and cola! Rum is being enhanced with fruits, seasonings, botanic elements and even coffee beans, leading to the discovery of thrilling new taste blends for cocktails and direct consumption.
3. Sustainability: Eco-aware consumers are ramping up the demand for rums that are produced using sustainable methods like organic cultivation, water saving, and harnessing of renewable power. Keep an eye out for labels that emphasize their adherence to eco-friendly practices.
Aged Rum Renaissance: Aged rums are witnessing a newfound popularity, with consumers now valuing their deep and complex flavors. The allure is further enhanced by extended aging periods and innovative finishing techniques.
Single Estate Rums: Like single-origin coffee, single estate rums are emerging as a new favorite. These rums are produced from sugarcane from one designated plantation, lending them a unique terroir-driven character.
Rum Cocktails Elevate: Bartenders are pushing the envelope of rum mixology, powered by the ongoing craft cocktail movement. Classic, as well as leading-edge cocktails, are being experimented with, thereby proving rum’s versatility beyond staple cocktails like the mojito and daiquiri.
Rum Education: With the heightened interest in premium rums, consumers are on the lookout for knowledge and novel experiences. Activities like rum tastings, distillery tours, and educational initiatives are seeing a surge in popularity.
8. Online Sales Boom: The e-commerce boom is reaching the rum market, making it easier for consumers to discover new brands and products from around the world.
9. Ready-to-Drink (RTD) Rums: Convenience is key, and RTD rum cocktails are gaining popularity. These pre-mixed beverages offer a premium experience without the hassle of bartending.
10. Beyond the Caribbean: While the Caribbean remains the heart of rum production, other regions like Latin America, India, and Australia are producing exciting new rums, diversifying the market and offering unique flavor profiles.
In a nutshell, the Persistence Market Research report is a must-read for start-ups, industry players, investors, researchers, consultants, business strategists, and all those who are looking to understand this industry. Get a glance at the report at – https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/market-research/rum-market.asp
Key Factors Influencing the Global Rum Market:
Surge in Global Cocktail Culture: One primary driver for the upswing in the rum market is the increasing fondness for cocktails, particularly in city areas. As the art of cocktail creation (mixology) continues to expand globally, the need for a varied range of top-notch rum types that can enhance these creative cocktails also increases.
Boost from Cultural Tourism and Rum Tasting Experiences: The growing trend towards cultural tours, inclusive of opportunities to participate in rum tastings and trek distilleries, is another factor influencing the rum industry. Travellers in search of local experiences contribute to the desire for rums from specific regions, thereby fostering progress within the industry.
Emerging Premiumization Trend: The market for rum is also benefiting from the emerging trend towards premium and handcrafted spirits. The readiness of consumers to spend on high-quality, craft rums with distinctive flavours is spurring the creation of novel flavour combinations and paving the way for new market possibilities.
Health Conscious Choices: As consumers become more health-conscious, the perception of certain types of rum as a natural and gluten-free alternative to other alcoholic beverages is driving demand. This health-conscious approach positions rum as a more versatile and inclusive beverage option.
Market Restraints for the Rum Market:
Stringent Regulatory Compliance: Regulatory challenges, including strict labeling requirements and taxation policies, pose a significant restraint to the rum market. Navigating through complex regulations can be a barrier for both new entrants and existing players.
Impact of Climate Change on Sugarcane Production: The rum industry heavily relies on sugarcane production, and climate change poses a threat to the stability of this supply chain. Erratic weather patterns and natural disasters can impact sugarcane yields, leading to potential shortages and increased production costs.
Challenges from Alternate Spirits: The rum industry faces a rigid competition from other liquor variants like whiskey, vodka, and gin. To stay in the game, distilleries should continuously bring forward new ideas and make their offerings stand out in this jam-packed industry.
Worldwide Economic Fluctuations: The everchanging economical situations and swing in exchange rates can hit the affordability and purchasing capability of the buyers, which in turn might influence the total sales of the higher quality and expensive types of rum.
Market Opportunities for the Rum Business:
Expanding E-commerce: The increasing trend of online shopping, specifically for alcoholic beverages, opens up manifold opportunities for the rum industry. By setting up a strong online presence and efficient distribution methods, a wider range of consumers can be reached.
Innovative Flavor Profiles and Blends: Creating unique flavor profiles and blends offers an opportunity for differentiation in the market. Experimenting with exotic ingredients and production methods can attract consumers looking for distinct and memorable tasting experiences.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices: Embracing sustainable and eco-friendly practices in production, packaging, and distribution can attract environmentally conscious consumers. This green approach not only aligns with consumer values but also opens doors to new market segments.
Expanding into Emerging Markets: Exploring untapped markets, especially in emerging economies with a rising middle class, presents an opportunity for growth. Adapting marketing strategies to suit diverse cultural preferences can help capture these evolving markets.
Major Players Driving Innovation
The spirits industry, defined by signature brands and a deep-seated history, is experiencing substantial innovation propelled by large players namely Diageo PLC, Pernod Ricard SA, William Grant & Sons Ltd., Remy Cointreau Group, Westerhall Estate Ltd., Cayman Spirits Co., and Mohan Meakin Ltd.
Diageo PLC is a worldwide leader continuously innovating by maintaining an emphasis on premiumization, sustainability, and digital advancements. They exhibit a profound comprehension of shifting consumer preferences through their devotion to an array of portfolios, including classic brands such as Johnnie Walker and Guinness.
Pernod Ricard SA, another titan in the industry, underlines their innovation through strategic procurement and a promise to sustainability. Their extensive brand collection, featuring Absolut Vodka and Jameson, showcases their commitment to keeping up with today’s consumer demands.
William Grant & Sons Ltd. is a family-owned distiller that has set itself apart via a legacy of artisanship and inventiveness. Brands like Glenfiddich and Hendrick’s Gin are a testament to their commitment to quality and innovativeness in creating distinct flavor profiles.
Remy Cointreau Group is known worldwide for its luxury liquors, such as the renowned Rémy Martin cognac. The enterprise’s unwavering commitment to top-tier craftsmanship, traditional heritage, and groundbreaking innovation has helped it become a driving force in shaping the trajectory of the spirits industry.
Westerhall Estate Ltd., a highly acclaimed player from the Caribbean, plays a key role in industry innovation by emphasizing the utilization of local ingredients along with age-old distillation techniques. This unique approach corresponds with the escalating consumer interest in spirits that are both singular and authentic.
Revered for its artisanal methodologies, Cayman Spirits Co. specializes in the production of limited quantity spirits like Seven Fathoms Rum. The company’s undeviating dedication towards quality and innovation aids in diversifying the spirits market.
Mohan Meakin Ltd., an authoritative player in India, boasts of a rich legacy stretching back to the 19th century. Its ability to keep step with evolving consumer tastes and exploit its nostalgic heritage sets it up as an essential player fostering innovation in burgeoning markets.
Rum Industry Research by Category
The Rum Industry research carries out an all-encompassing segmentation according to several prime categories, illuminating the various dynamics present within the market.
By Type: The market is classified according to the rum type, comprising White Rum, Light/Gold Rum, Dark Rum, and Spiced Rum. Every category sings a different tune, offering unique characteristics, flavors, and uses, accommodating a diverse crowd with differing tastes.
By Nature: The rum production nature is bifurcated into Organic and Conventional segments. This nature focus signifies the escalating trend of organic and sustainable methods in the rum business, aligning with the surging market demand for environmentally considerate and ethically curated products.
Concerning Sales Channels: Various sales paths are utilized in the rum industry which are classified into the sectors of Business to Business (B2B), Business to Consumer (B2C), Hypermarkets/Supermarkets, Specialty Stores, Online Retail, and more. This assortment portrays the numerous routes in which rum products get to consumers, emphasizing the industry’s flexibility with different distribution conduits.
In the Business to Business (B2B) segment, transactions occur between businesses while typically incorporating bulk purchases designed for bars, restaurants, and other similar establishments.
Business to Consumer (B2C) includes direct sales targeting end consumers using a variety of platforms.
Hypermarkets/Supermarkets form the archetypical retail space, providing simplicity and accessibility to a wide-ranging customer base.
Specialty Stores focus on providing customers with distinct and high-end rum products, usually featuring a specially selected range.
Online Retail has become more prominent, offering a user-friendly platform for customers to discover and buy a variety of rum products.
Other possible outlets include duty-free stores, airport retail, and other specific distribution channels.
By Region: The geographic breakdown includes North America, Latin America, Europe, South Asia & Pacific, East Asia, and the Middle East & Africa. Each region plays a unique role in the rum industry, influenced by cultural tastes, historical importance, and economic variables.
North America and Europe possess a deep-rooted tradition in the consumption of rum, exhibiting an escalating inclination towards premium and artisanal varieties.
In contrast, Latin America displays a vibrant historical bond with rum manufacture, with substantial contributing nations such as Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic.
On the other side, South Asia & Pacific, East Asia, and the Middle East & Africa introduce burgeoning markets with amplified consumer curiosity and modifying palates.
This detailed segmentation affords a detailed study of the rum sector, facilitating businesses to customize their tactics according to the rum type, nature of production, distribution channels, and regional dynamics. The varied terrain underlines the prerequisite for adaptability and adjustment within the sector to cater to globally shifting consumer requirements.
Exploring the Unseen: Navigating Towards the Future
Sustainability and Social Responsibility: As awareness of environmental issues heightens, consumers attribute significant importance to sustainability. Distilleries with green practices, support for local societies, and fair labor priority seem to appeal more to an aware and socially responsible audience.
Avenues for Innovation and Experimentation: The rum industry presents an open field for experimentation, with customers keen on experiencing new and exhilarating taste profiles. Distilleries that dare to deviate from tradition maintaining quality and exploiting unique aging procedures to mysterious cask finishes appear well squared for success.
The Impact of Digital Transformation: The virtual landscape is redefining the way customers discover and buy spirits. Digital platforms, social media, and online tastings are gaining more influence in determining customer choices. Distilleries that employ digital advertising and e-commerce demonstrate better prospects in engaging with a diverse and international audience.
The rising demand in upcoming markets is directly related to the increase in disposable income, which results in an increased desire for imported and premium spirits. Locations such as Asia, Africa, and Eastern Europe are rapidly growing as important markets for the rum industry. To ensure ongoing success, it’s crucial that understanding and catering to the unique tastes of these markets are the top priorities.
An overview of Persistence Market Research:
Persistence Market Research believes that business intelligence forms the underpinning of all business models. In order to achieve this, they utilize a variety of sources, involving big data, analytics from customer experiences, and real-time data collection. Engaging deeply with these “micro” elements, Persistence Market Research supports businesses in overcoming their significant, or “macro”, challenges.
Persistence Market Research consistently remains ahead of its time. This means that they provide solutions for the market by engaging with companies and clients long before these groups have had a chance to glimpse at the market themselves. By adopting a proactive approach, the experts at Persistence Market Research provide companies and clients with key techno-commercial insights, simplifying their subsequent decisions and actions.
Contact Us:
Persistence Market Research
Teerth Technospace, Unit B-704
Survey Number – 103, Baner
Mumbai Bangalore Highway
Pune 411045, India
Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.com
Web: https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com









