Sip In Style: Discover Iconic Bars Serving Limited-Edition Rum Cocktails This July
As June comes to a close, New Zealand is gearing up for its annual Rum Month in July, a time to celebrate the spirit with limited-edition cocktails designed to warm the soul during the winter chill. Appleton Estate has partnered with some of the top bars in the country, creating exclusive rum cocktails that you won’t find elsewhere.
From the cozy vibes of underground speakeasies to vibrant neighborhood bars, here are the must-try rum cocktails across the North and South Islands.
North Island Highlights
Sardine, Auckland
Sardine, the drink-savvy sister bar to White and Wong’s, features six rum cocktails for just $20 each, offering a variety to suit every palate.
The Grange, Takapuna
Known for its Grange Signature cocktail, this bar combines Appleton Estate rum with Campari, passionfruit, fresh lime, and egg white for a vibrant and bittersweet experience.
Deadshot, Ponsonby
This bar presents a new Aperitivo Menu, with the Blackbeard’s Fix cocktail mixing Appleton Signature rum with black tea and lemon for a refreshing take.
Bar Mea, Auckland CBD
Bar Mea introduces the Tropical Hummingbird, combining Appleton Estate 8yo rum with Aperol, passionfruit, and a mango foam, available Thursday to Sunday.
Park Hyatt, Auckland CBD
Captain’s Bar offers a refined experience with a bespoke rum flight featuring three Appleton Estate expressions, complemented by flavor-packed pairings.
Panacea, Auckland CBD
This unique bar serves a cocktail called Universally Speaking, featuring Appleton Estate Rum mixed with mango, lychee, and ume sake.
Albert’s Post, Mount Albert
Enjoy the Pineapple Ginger Rumbada, a blend of Appleton Estate Rum served in a hollowed-out pineapple, bringing tropical vibes to Mount Albert.
Nightcar, Auckland CBD
A more intimate setting, Nightcar serves a trio of Appleton Estate cocktails, perfect for pairing with their modern Chinese menu.
The Corner, Remuera
This local favorite presents a bold Old Fashioned, offering a refined twist on a classic cocktail.
Picnicka, Tauranga
Known for island-inspired cocktails, Picnicka serves the Black River Joy, Nassau Sour, and Three Push, One Steer, each packed with depth and creativity.
South Island Highlights
SODA, Queenstown
SODA’s Sunset Sip combines Appleton Estate Signature Rum with Amaro, Graham’s Port, and cinnamon, creating a rich, warming cocktail.
Habana Rum Bar, Queenstown
Tucked away in the laneways, Habana’s Rum Reverie blends Appleton Estate rum with tropical flavors, echoing classic tiki cocktails.
Little Blackwood, Queenstown
Famed for its nightlife, Little Blackwood serves a reimagined Mai Tai using the ultra-rare Appleton Estate 17YO, showcasing a housemade pistachio orgeat.
O.G.B. Christchurch
Offering a mix of vintage vibes and live music, OGB features the Vin Brûlé Tai—a spicy rum blend with mulled wine syrup, alongside two other standout cocktails.
Austin Club, Christchurch
This hidden gem presents the Hokey Pokey Mai Tai, mixing Appleton Estate Rum with a nostalgic Kiwi twist for a unique take on a classic.
Bloody Mary’s, Christchurch
At Bloody Mary’s, enjoy two unique cocktails featuring Appleton Estate 12-Year rum—the savory Butcher’s Pour and the spicy Irie.
For detailed information on participating venues and their unique offerings this Rum Month, visit Appleton Estate.
LQR House Teams Up with Montauk Distilling Co. for Exciting Cinnamon Flavored Rum Launch
LQR House Inc. has entered into a strategic marketing partnership with Montauk Distilling Co. to promote its cinnamon-flavored rum. This collaboration aims to enhance brand visibility and boost ecommerce sales through a tailored three-month promotional campaign.
The initiative will utilize LQR House’s marketing expertise, which includes proprietary digital tools, targeted advertising strategies, and an extensive network of influencers. Sean Dollinger, CEO of LQR House, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting Montauk Cinnamon Rum’s unique flavor and strong consumer appeal. He emphasized their commitment to delivering specialized marketing services that help emerging and craft spirits brands connect with their target customers.
With this agreement, LQR House continues its mission to support quality beverage brands through data-driven marketing strategies. The campaign will be executed via CWSpirits.com, LQR House’s alcohol marketplace, which specializes in providing a diverse selection of premium spirits.
LQR House is committed to reshaping the online alcohol purchasing experience, demonstrating measurable success in sales through its strategic marketing efforts. This partnership represents an important step for both companies in capturing consumer interest in innovative spirits.
For more information on LQR House and their initiatives, you can visit CWSpirits.com.
What’s Cooking, Key West? Introducing the ‘Papa’ Cocktail for Hemingway Enthusiasts
In Key West, a place once frequented by Ernest Hemingway in the 1930s, the legacy of the legendary writer continues to thrive, particularly through a beloved cocktail: the Hemingway daiquiri. Known for his adventurous spirit, Hemingway often engaged in boxing, fishing, and clandestine drinking during Prohibition, traits that exemplified his dynamic lifestyle, reflected in his literary contributions like "For Whom the Bell Tolls" and "To Have and Have Not."
Hemingway’s influence is celebrated today in various ways, including his former home, the Hemingway Rum Company producing Papa’s Pilar Rum, and the annual Hemingway Days festival, which features a look-alike contest at Sloppy Joe’s, a bar he often frequented. The Hemingway daiquiri, originally crafted at El Floridita in Havana, Cuba, has since become a staple at Bar 1, located at the Key West Cooking School.
The Hemingway daiquiri is distinctively characterized by its bold flavor, made from white rum, citrus juices, and maraschino liqueur, intentionally avoiding the sweetness of a traditional daiquiri—reflecting Hemingway’s personal taste preference. Alongside this iconic drink, Bar 1 also offers other rum-based specialties like the Rum Runner and Key West Sunset.
In anticipation of National Daiquiri Day on July 19, visitors are encouraged to raise a glass at Bar 1, celebrating Hemingway’s memory with the cocktail that pays homage to his life and legacy in Key West. To craft your own Hemingway daiquiri at home, combine white rum, fresh lime and grapefruit juices, maraschino liqueur, and ice in a shaker, shaking until chilled and straining into a glass devoid of ice.
For an even bolder flavor, consider using an aged rum instead of a light rum to enhance the complexity of the drink.
Impact of Wine Industry Challenges on Local Warehouse Real Estate Markets
The Napa Valley industrial real estate market, historically resilient alongside the wine industry, is facing significant turmoil as wine sales decline. The vacancy rates for warehouses in Napa and Solano counties have doubled over the past year, spiking to 12.3% availability. In American Canyon, the largest storage market in the area, vacancies have risen dramatically from 1% to 17.1%—a shift that reflects the broader struggles of the wine industry.
The growing trend towards just-in-time inventory management, driven by economic pressures, has also disrupted traditional warehousing strategies. Two notable leases that contributed to the increase in vacancy included Ikea’s departure from a 644,000-square-foot warehouse and Meyer Cookware vacating approximately half a million square feet nearby.
In Sonoma County, vacancy rates slightly decreased to 8.2% from 8.6%, without a corresponding rise in wine-related warehouse availability. This relative stability contrasts sharply with developments in Napa and Solano counties, largely due to shifting demands and market conditions.
Brooks Pedder, a veteran agent in the real estate market, noted that the area’s reputation as a "recession-proof" market has shifted. Challenges are particularly exacerbated for specialized storage facilities equipped for wine, which can be less attractive to non-wine businesses due to the high upkeep costs.
As some major storage providers navigate this downturn by cutting back, others like Yandell Companies are seizing the moment to expand. They are seeking substantial new warehouse spaces to accommodate temperature-controlled needs and adapt to changing industry logistics. This growth comes while they anticipate rising vacancy pressures will drive rents down, creating economically favorable conditions for expansion.
The industry’s move toward tighter inventory controls highlights a broader economic reality for wine producers; demand patterns are changing as younger generations show interest in alternatives to wine. Overall, wine sales saw a drop in volume last year, though some premium wines have maintained sales strength. Experts predict a slow recovery in upcoming years, with 2026 possibly signaling signs of turnaround for the struggling Napa Valley market.
For additional information, see reports from Silicon Valley Bank, BMO Bank, and insights from North Coast wine grape market experts.
Brewing Change: South Africa’s First Black Female Brewery Owner Inspires the Next Generation
After pouring a brown, gritty liquid from a large silver tank into a refractometer, South African brewing master Apiwe Nxusani-Mawela expresses her approval to students, who enthusiastically share their observations. "When you are brewing, you must constantly check your mixture," she emphasizes, highlighting the need for balance between sugar and grains.
At 41, Nxusani-Mawela is a pioneering figure as the first Black woman to own a craft brewery in South Africa. Her goal is to broaden access to the multibillion-dollar beer industry for more Black individuals and women. At her microbrewery in Johannesburg, she trains 13 young Black graduates, most of whom are women, in the brewing craft.
The students come from backgrounds in chemical engineering, biotechnology, or analytical chemistry and are eager to gain qualifications specific to brewing. During their extensive six-hour class, they learn various brewing techniques such as malting, mashing, and fermentation—all essential steps in brewing quality beer. "My favorite part is the mashing," says Lerato Banda, a 30-year-old chemical engineering student aiming to launch her own beverage line. "It’s where the beer and everything starts."
Nxusani-Mawela’s Brewsters Academy, where the classes began in early June, focuses on beer varieties from around the world and Africa. Students will complete a six-month hands-on experience in addition to their lessons.
Located in Johannesburg’s Wynberg suburb, Nxusani-Mawela’s Tolokazi brewery lies between the poorer township of Alexandra and the affluent financial district of Sandton, often referred to as Africa’s richest square mile. She grew up in Butterworth—about 621 miles away—and was inspired by a university event to pursue a career in brewing. Initially, she began brewing as an amateur in 2007, combining her passion for business and science, leveraging her microbiology degree.
Nxusani-Mawela is committed to transforming the beer industry for future generations. "I wanted to ensure that being the first Black female to own a brewery in South Africa, I’m not the first and the last," she states. Her aim is to normalize the presence of Black individuals and women in the industry over the next decade.
The South African beer industry generates over $5.2 billion for the country’s economy and supports more than 200,000 jobs. Despite its male-dominated nature, there are ongoing initiatives to incorporate more women.
Lehlohonolo Makhethe, a 24-year-old student, acknowledges the historical connection between women and brewing in some African cultures. She believes acquiring these skills is reclaiming their traditional roles. "How it got male dominated, I don’t know," she remarks, adding, "we are going back to our roots as women."
Nxusani-Mawela also emphasizes the importance of maintaining traditional African beer styles. Her award-winning Wild African Soul beer, which brings together elements of Umqombothi (a traditional African beer made from maize and sorghum) and Belgian Saison, showcases this vision. "Umqombothi is our African way, and everybody should know how to make it, but we don’t," she reflects, highlighting her desire to merge the past with contemporary brewing.
Utilizing unique South African flavors, her Tolokazi line includes beers infused with marula fruit and rooibos, typically known for its tea. A festival participant, Lethabo Seipei Kekae, expressed surprise at enjoying rooibos beer, stating, "It’s so smooth. Even if you are not a beer drinker, you can drink it.
From F1 to Ta Ra Rum Pum: Indian Netizens Hilariously Compare Brad Pitt’s Racing Movie to Saif Ali Khan’s Classic
Indian social media is abuzz with comparisons between Brad Pitt’s latest film "F1" and the 2007 Bollywood movie "Ta Ra Rum Pum," starring Saif Ali Khan and Rani Mukerji. The excitement surrounding "F1," which explores the world of Formula One racing, has led many Indian netizens to reminisce about "Ta Ra Rum Pum," a film that follows the journey of an aspiring professional car racer who faces hardships.
Director Siddharth Anand, who helmed "Ta Ra Rum Pum," contributed to the ongoing conversation by tweeting about his own film, expressing fondness for it. Social media commentary has ranged from playful to nostalgic, with users praising "Ta Ra Rum Pum" and arguing for its supremacy in the racing genre. As comparisons emerge, users highlight memorable lines and themes, humorously defending the Bollywood film against the global allure of "F1."
While "F1" portrays a fallen driver brought back to racing by a struggling team, "Ta Ra Rum Pum" tells a story of resilience following a tragic accident. Interestingly, the two films differ significantly in plot and execution, but the cultural impact of "Ta Ra Rum Pum" continues to resonate strongly with fans, making it a beloved classic in Bollywood racing cinema.
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I-10 East Shut Down Near Whiskey Bay Following Crash: What You Need to Know
I-10 East was shut down on the Atchafalaya Basin Bridge just past Whiskey Bay due to a crash, as reported by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD). The incident occurred before 4 p.m., forcing vehicles to use the right shoulder to navigate around the blockage. By around 5:15 p.m., all lanes were reopened.
DOTD officials noted significant traffic backups and advised drivers to seek alternate routes, especially since many were traveling back after the Fourth of July holiday. It is currently unclear if there were any injuries from the crash, and the cause is still under investigation.
Root Beer Social Raises Funds for New Pickleball Court at Findley State Park
The Friends of Findley State Park, Inc. held a successful root beer float social on July 5, drawing over 100 attendees to raise funds for the park. Tricia Andel, the organization’s president, expressed optimism about their goals despite recent budget cuts affecting park operations.
The event took place from 1 to 3 p.m. beside the campground’s shelter house, which was built in 2002 with funds raised by the Friends. Each root beer float, sold for $2, was made with vanilla ice cream and root beer. The organization hosts root beer socials over Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day weekends.
This year’s primary fundraising goal is to complete pickleball courts near the boat ramp within the camping area. The necessary concrete pad for the four-court setup was poured at the end of June, with a total project cost of approximately $16,000. The group received a $7,400 grant from the Lorain County Public Health’s Healthy Places grant program.
The next fundraising event, the Forest Frolic Trail Race and Hike, is set for July 12. Although the Friends of Findley started fundraising in 2002, they were officially established as a non-profit organization in 2004. Their mission focuses on building new attractions and preserving Findley State Park, which spans 838 acres of wooded land and features a large lake, providing opportunities for camping, boating, and hiking.
For more information on the Friends of Findley’s fundraising activities or to register for the Forest Frolic, visit www.friendsoffindley.org.
The Hidden Risks of Drinking Open Bottles of Wine: What You Need to Know
Opened wine can remain drinkable for several days if stored correctly, alleviating concerns about finishing it all at once. Fortunately, the lifespan of an opened bottle varies based on the wine type and how it is stored. Here are some essential tips and guidelines for keeping your wine fresh for longer.
Proper Storage Techniques
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Re-Corking: After pouring a glass, always re-cork the bottle. This helps limit oxidation.
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Refrigeration: Regardless of the wine type, keeping opened bottles in the fridge can significantly extend their life. For reds, let them warm slightly before serving.
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Avoid Sunlight and Heat: Store wine in a cool, dark place. Exposure to heat or light can degrade the quality.
How Long Different Wines Last
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Red Wines: Typically last 3-5 days in the fridge. Full-bodied reds with higher tannins can last longer, while lighter reds will spoil quicker.
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Full-Bodied White Wines: Expect them to remain good for 2-3 days post-opening. Keep these wines corked and refrigerated.
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Sparkling Wines: These wines are more sensitive. They typically last 1-3 days after being opened as they lose their carbonation quickly. Using a sparkling wine stopper can help retain bubbles.
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Light Whites, Sweet Whites, and Rosés: These can last around 4-5 days in the fridge, though their flavor may shift slightly within that time.
Additional Tips
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Use Wine Preservers: Products like vacuum caps or systems that refill the bottle with Argon gas can enhance longevity beyond standard storage methods.
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Know Your Temperatures: Serve wines at their ideal temperatures for the best flavor experience. Lighter wines should be chilled, while reds are often best at slightly warmer temperatures than room temperature.
Following these recommendations not only helps reduce waste but also enhances the enjoyment of each glass. Cheers to extending the life of your favorite wines!
City Releases Q&A on Whiskey Row Hotel Ahead of Council Review
The City of Prescott has recently shared a list of frequently asked questions about the proposed Plaza Hotel on Whiskey Row, which is set for a review by the City Council on Tuesday, July 8. The Q&A was posted on the city’s Facebook page on July 1.
The council meeting will be held at 3 p.m. at Prescott City Hall, located at 201 N. Montezuma Street, in the first-floor council chambers. Developer Jim Griset initially proposed the hotel project in August 2023, but the Prescott Preservation Commission denied his request to demolish the existing buildings at 136, 138, and 140 S. Montezuma Street, which would make way for a new four-story boutique hotel.
For further details, visit the city’s official Facebook page or the relevant news article.