Local rum manufacturers are facing a significant challenge as revenues continue to fall short of projections. For fiscal year 2025, rum revenues were expected to reach $210 million, but actual receipts only totaled $181 million, leaving a $29 million deficit. This situation has prompted lawmakers and finance officials to propose new marketing strategies and product innovations to help revive the industry.

During a recent meeting of the Committee on Budget, Appropriations, and Finance, Nathan Simmons, director of the Public Finance Authority, revealed the disappointing figures associated with the rum cover over receipts. The committee noted the decreasing sales of spirits, particularly rum, in the United States.

To address this issue, Simmons stated that local rum producers, specifically Cruzan Rum and Diageo, have begun to ramp up their marketing efforts. However, he emphasized that they will not increase production without certainty that sales will follow—indicating a cautious approach to expansion.

Current market trends indicate that consumer preferences are shifting. While certain spirits like tequila are gaining popularity, flavored and ready-to-drink cocktails are surging, putting traditional rum sales on the back burner. Senators Milton Potter and Kurt Vialet discussed the importance of aligning long-term production strategies with these changing consumer trends and the necessity for targeted strategies to boost rum sales.

In the broader context, U.S. rum consumption has seen a decline; recent reports showed an approximate 8.9% decrease in rum volumes over the past year. Yet, there is a glimmer of hope. Projections suggest that the U.S. rum market, valued near $2.91 billion in 2024, could see growth driven by premium and craft rum segments extending through 2030.

Additionally, the current statutory rum cover over rate of $10.50 per proof gallon continues to hinder revenue expectations that were based on an anticipated extended rate of $13.25. Senator Vialet called on the government to engage lobbyists to urge for the rate increase, which he believes the territory is not adequately compensated for. Simmons affirmed that discussions with Delegate to Congress Stacey Plaskett are underway to aim for legislative changes regarding the cover over rate.

As local producers navigate these challenges, there is a clear consensus on the need for a long-term strategy focused on innovation and marketing to adapt to the evolving spirits market.

A distinguished Caribbean rum from St. Kitts and Nevis has recently been honored as the World’s Best Rum at the 2025 Bartender Spirits Awards. This accolade spotlights the exceptional quality and heritage behind Old Road Rum, a brand deeply rooted in the island’s historical sugar production.

Old Road Rum, crafted in a region historically known as the “Mother Colony of the West Indies,” draws on centuries of rum-making tradition. The area, once flourishing with sugarcane plantations, became renowned for its rum distillation processes after sugar production began to wane. Though the last sugar production on St. Kitts ceased in 2005, the spirit of rum lives on through Old Road Rum, which reflects both the past and a modern renaissance in rum craft.

The rum is produced under the Old Road Rum Company, established by Jack Widdowson, and is distilled in Barbados before being matured and bottled in St. Kitts. The limited edition release, launched in 2022, has quickly gained accolades for its well-rounded flavor profile, marked by its rich complexity and elegant finish. It is aged for approximately 12 years in ex-bourbon barrels, which influences its distinct character.

The tasting notes of Old Road Rum, Limited Edition, reveal a deep amber-gold hue with a complex aroma featuring hints of molasses, caramel, tropical fruits, and baking spices. The palate is described as creamy and robust, showcasing flavors like burnt sugar, vanilla, and dried fruits, complemented by an array of spices. The finish is noted for its sweetness and layered depth, leaving a lasting impression of wood and fruit.

This recognition at the International Bartender Spirits Awards, where spirits are judged on quality, innovation, and craftsmanship, emphasizes the growing reputation of artisanal rums from the Caribbean. For enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike, Old Road Rum offers a sophisticated tasting experience, whether enjoyed neat or paired with various foods.

For more details, you can visit the official Old Road Rum website.

This Father’s Day, consider giving a unique gift—a bottle of whiskey associated with one of television’s most infamous dads. Frank Gallagher, the character portrayed by William H. Macy on the show Shameless, is not someone most would consider a model parent. However, the William H. Macy Reserve Straight Rye Whiskey from Woody Creek Distillers is a high-quality spirit that deserves recognition, despite its connection to such a flawed character.

Macy, who joined Woody Creek Distillers in 2018, has taken a hands-on approach with the brand. He’s not just a celebrity face; he actively participates in the whiskey-making process, helping to select the barrels and holding events to promote the product. His involvement stems from a personal connection; he and his wife are neighbors of the distillery founders, Patrick and Mary Scanlan.

The William H. Macy Reserve is a bottled in bond, 10-year-old straight rye whiskey that sells for $199 and can be found online, at the distillery in Basalt, Colorado, and at select retailers. Macy has a strong belief in the quality of his whiskey, stating, "I know there are other great spirits, but I am saying there are none better."

When asked if he would share the whiskey with Frank Gallagher, Macy humorously acknowledged Frank’s terrible parenting but noted that the character believed in celebrating life’s moments. This whiskey fits right into such occasions.

With its ten years aging in barrels, the rye showcases a rich profile, including flavors influenced by oak, along with fruity and spicy notes. It offers aromas of clove and cinnamon, with a palate featuring apples, dried fruit, nuts, and honey, culminating in a finish that hints at spice and mild smoke. It’s an enjoyable sipper straight or on the rocks, and it also shines in classic cocktails.

In a light-hearted admission, Macy declared that Jim Anderson, from Father Knows Best, embodies the ideal father figure, contrasting heavily with Frank Gallagher. For those who appreciate good whiskey, a bottle of William H. Macy Reserve Straight Rye offers a delightful way to celebrate Father’s Day—preferably with a shared toast.

At the 2025 International Bartender Spirits Awards, two vodkas have achieved top honors, recognized by America’s leading bartenders as the best in the world. Angry Giraffe Premium Vodka was awarded Vodka of the Year, while Verità Vodka Italiana was named Best Spirit by Value. Both of these vodkas are celebrated for their quality and craftsmanship, having garnered numerous accolades in international spirit competitions.

Angry Giraffe Premium Vodka embodies the spirit of South Africa mixed with the energy of New York. This vodka is produced in small batches at Twin Stills Moonshine Distillery in Speonk, New York, using locally sourced grains. Distilled four times, Angry Giraffe is characterized by its crystal-clear appearance and a clean aroma that carries subtle hints of grain and sweetness. On the palate, it offers a smooth and creamy texture with a balanced hint of sweetness and a peppery note, leading to a long, crisp finish that lingers with notes of vanilla.

On the other hand, Verità Vodka Italiana hails from San Pietro di Feletto in northeastern Italy. Crafted by the multi-generational Distilleria dell’Alpe, this vodka is made from 100% Italian wheat and pure mountain spring water sourced from the Alps. The meticulous process involves three cycles of distillation followed by a final distillation in an antique wood-fired bain-marie still, which adds unique character. It has a clean and crisp nose with minerality, a creamy texture on the palate, and a refreshing finish with a smooth aftertaste.

The International Bartender Spirits Awards highlights the excellence in the spirits industry, focusing on quality, innovation, and craftsmanship. With their competitive pricing, both Angry Giraffe Premium Vodka and Verità Vodka Italiana are recommended for inclusion in home bars, offering exceptional taste and authenticity.

The owners of Okinawa Japanese Cuisine are set to launch a new dining destination in Denver’s Colfax Avenue, named Ma’s Kitchen Dumplings & Noodles. This establishment will take over the space formerly held by Rolling Pin Pizza, following its abrupt closure last year. The restaurant aims to offer a menu centered around noodles and dumplings with a Chinese focus, expanding the culinary options in the area.

Formerly, Rolling Pin Pizza had succeeded the popular Tacos Tequila Whiskey, which had been a neighborhood staple for over a decade. Kevin Morrison, the previous owner of both establishments, decided to sell the restaurant’s assets and relocate to Calgary, Canada, to be closer to family. He remarked that the taco and pizza markets in that part of Denver had become oversaturated.

Xi Yong Zheng, the owner of Okinawa, will head the new venture. According to Alan Cheng, a chef at Okinawa and spokesperson for Zheng, Ma’s Kitchen is expected to open in late August or early September. The kitchen will be led by Zheng’s brother, Xi Nuan Zheng, who is gaining experience from noodle and dumpling shops in China.

This new establishment is well-timed, as it seeks to fill a niche in the neighborhood’s dining landscape that hasn’t been offered before.

For more information, visit Ma’s Kitchen Dumplings & Noodles here.

In this month’s edition of Rum Music reviewed by Jennifer Lucy Allan, a captivating blend of sound poetry, unique instrumentals, and imaginative themes create a rich auditory experience. The narrative echoes the contemplative musings of prominent poets, with lines that resonate deep within.

The column delves into an eclectic array of offerings, moving away from the raw guitar sounds that have characterized previous editions. Instead, it embraces an experimental approach with sound poetry, angelic vowel utterances, quirky electronics, and even a collection of recordings featuring water droplets.

Noteworthy mentions include John M. Bennett’s Blanksmanship, characterized by poetic narratives and the interplay of shakuhachi and flute sounds, bringing a literary essence. The duo Jean-Marie Mercimek offers a unique auditory collage in Dans Le Camion De Marguerite Duras, blending sung/spoken French texts with unconventional keyboard sounds.

Another intriguing insight comes from Los Pélieu Lovers, who weave a poetic narrative inspired by French Beat poet Claude Pélieu, infusing their music with elements of spoken word and atmospheric instrumentals. Crystabel Efemena Riley’s live work impresses with visceral percussive experimentation, capturing the energetic response of a live audience.

Kasai takes a more whimsical approach with his high-octane minyo sounds, which revolve around everyday themes infused with an unorthodox charm. The various artists’ compilation Tsapiky! Modern Music From Southwest Madagascar energizes the soundscape with vibrant rhythms and local melodies, showcasing the cultural richness of tsapiky music.

Laura Steenberge’s Piriforms elevates the listener with ethereal choral harmonies that explore medieval singing traditions, offering a meditative experience that underscores the complexities of sound and space.

Closing the narrative is Masaaki Takano’s Shizukutachi, an innovative work that merges natural soundscapes with a minimal techno aesthetic, inviting listeners to reflect on the subtle beauty of water sounds transformed into musical movements.

This collection serves not only as a diverse sample of contemporary experimental music but as a reminder of the poetic and emotional power of sound in all its forms.