Franklin Liquors
Liquor Industry News
The Wonderful World Of Wine (WWW)
By: Mark C Lenzi
CSW, CSS, CWAS, FWS, IWS*, SWS, OWE, IWM*
04-06-2026
Liquor Industry Week In Review
The Wonderful World Of Wine (WWW)
This Weeks Highlights:
New Products
Prohibitionists Still Going after Wine
Wine drinkers might live longer
Is Guinness really ‘good for you’?
If A Brewery Makes This Beer Pouring Mistake Don’t Ignore It
We’re all familiar with at least some restaurant red flags you shouldn’t ignore, but many aren’t aware that breweries can likewise commit offenses that should give people pause.
https://www.thetakeout.com/2119832/brewery-beer-pour-mistake-dont-ignore/
What GLP-1s mean for hospitality
As medicines like GLP‑1s move into the mainstream, they’re reshaping the way people eat, drink and experience hospitality. These treatments are influencing everything from the dishes guests gravitate toward to the way they approach alcohol and indulgence. And while habits are evolving, one thing hasn’t changed: people still want to go out, socialise and enjoy great food and drink
https://nielseniq.com/global/en/insights/analysis/2026/what-glp-1s-mean-for-hospitality/
Brewers hit ‘structural stagnation’ with beer ‘no longer a growth or margin-expansion story’
Global brewers have gone from growth to “stagnation” as developed market volumes enter structural decline, according to new data.
https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2026/03/brewers-hit-structural-stagnation-with-beer-no-longer-a-growth-or-margin-expansion-story/
US craft beer sector’s migration from bottles to cans slows
The shift from beer being packaged in cans instead of bottles is “levelling off in the US, according to new research from the Brewers Association (BA). Could this have been impacted by tariffs on aluminium? db finds out.
https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2026/03/us-craft-beer-sectors-migration-from-bottles-to-cans-slows/
Is the ‘Ozempic era’ an opportunity for no-and-low?
With growing research to suggest GLP-1 drugs reduce the desire to drink alcohol, Eloise Feilden asks whether the ‘Ozempic era’ offers opportunities for the no- and low-ABV sector to thrive.
https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2026/03/is-the-ozempic-era-an-opportunity-for-no-and-low/
The 16 Most Important Irish Whiskeys of the 21st Century So Far
In some ways, sales only tell half the story. Whiskey itself paints a more colorful picture.
https://vinepair.com/articles/21st-century-most-imporant-irish-whiskey/
Retailers turn to digital rebates as alcohol sales slump
Grocers and C-stores are turning to digital alcohol rebates to try to boost alcohol sales and digital engagement.
https://www.modernretail.co/technology/retailers-turn-to-digital-rebates-as-alcohol-sales-slump/
Why Unions Are Fighting to Keep Wine Out of New York Grocery Stores
The opposition comes as large grocery chains seek to expand their market power into wine sales, a move that could redirect millions of dollars in revenue away from the current system of licensed wine and liquor stores
https://www.altitudesmagazine.com/unions-fighting-wine-new-york-grocery-stores/
What’s The Best-Selling Whiskey Brand In The US?
Whiskey, or whisky depending on the origins of a particular bottle, is one of the most popular liquors in the world, and for good reason.
https://www.mashed.com/2120839/best-selling-whiskey-brand/
Tequila’s price rebalancing act
The Tequila sector is changing its stance in line with consumers wanting to enjoy quality liquid at wallet-friendly prices.
https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2026/03/tequilas-price-rebalancing-act/
The Future of Wine
How AI Is Transforming Employment in the Wine Industry
https://wineindustryadvisor.com/2026/03/17/the-future-of-wine-how-ai-is-transforming-employment-in-the-wine-industry/
New Bookers
Suntory Global Spirits has released the first 2026 bottling of Booker’s Bourbon, “Big Easy” Batch. The seven-year-old whiskey is bottled at 64.55% and blended from whiskies matured in five different rick houses. The release takes its name from Booker Noe’s love of New Orleans, according to the company. It carries a suggested price of $100 a bottle and is available in limited quantities across the U.S. Typically, Suntory releases multiple batches of Booker’s every year, with each bottling named in celebration of Booker Noe’s legacy
Are Americans turning to homegrown wines as tariffs bite?
US wine consumption is falling, but shifting trade policy and pricing pressures are reshaping buying habits. As tariffs disrupt imports, producers and buyers are reassessing the balance between domestic and international bottles. Kathleen Willcox reports.
Concept of American wine industry. Close-up studio shot in selective focus of one clean wine cork with small paper American flag planted in it, with crowd of multiple different cork bottle stoppers blurred in background, on white background with light and shadow effects. There is a basic illustration of vine grape plant, created and merged by the photographer in post processing.
https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2026/03/are-americans-turning-to-homegrown-wines-as-tariffs-bite/
Italy about to start making domestically dealcoholised wine
Following a decree passed in late 2025 to reverse the clamp-down on dealcoholised wine, Italian producers are expecting to be able to start officially dealcoholising wines inside the country “any day now”. Sarah Neish reports.
https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2026/03/italy-to-lift-ban-on-making-dealcoholised-wines/
How Ozempic Changed the Way I Taste Wine
GLP-1s don’t merely curb one’s desire to eat; research suggests that they target pleasure centers in the brain, reducing urges to partake in a variety of vices, including gambling, compulsive shopping, and, yes, drinking. There’s even speculation that GLP-1s could one day be used as a treatment for alcohol use disorder.
https://www.wineenthusiast.com/culture/drinking-on-ozempic/
Wine Isn’t Risk-Free — but It May Not Be the Biggest Health Threat on Your Table
Headlines say “no amount of alcohol is safe,” but a closer look at the science — and how risk statistics are reported — tells a more nuanced story.
https://www.foodandwine.com/wine-consumption-health-risk-11927690
Decades-old Missouri cooperage is home to some of the most skilled wine barrel-makers
The Oak Cooperage in Higbee has been making wine barrels since 1972 and is all about turning good wines into great wines.
https://www.komu.com/news/showmemissouri/decades-old-missouri-cooperage-is-home-to-some-of-the-most-skilled-wine-barrel-makers/article_0db465dd-fb63-42d3-931d-7eb35276efca.html
A New Era for Oregon Bubbles
Method Oregon Launches Nonprofit Organization and First Official Standard for Oregon Sparkling Wine
https://wineindustryadvisor.com/2026/03/17/method-oregon-launches-nonprofit-organization-and-first-official-standard-for-oregon-sparkling-wine/
The Best Wine Pairings for Disney’s Most Iconic Snacks
Disney’s top sommeliers to offer their wine pairings for the park’s most famous bites.
https://www.wineenthusiast.com/basics/how-to-pair/disney-snacks-wine-pairings/
Marlborough winegrowers brace for challenging years ahead
New Zealand’s largest wine region is bracing for a prolonged downturn, with growers cutting production and facing mounting financial pressure. Some industry leaders warn the road back to profitability will be slow, despite signs of global demand.
https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2026/03/marlborough-winegrowers-brace-for-challenging-years-ahead/
Moldova’s quiet wine revolution
With a long winemaking history, distinctive grape varieties and a developing wine tourism sector, Moldova is perfectly placed to win over new consumers.
https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2026/03/moldovas-quiet-wine-revolution/
Cooper & Thief Cellarmasters Collaborates with Larceny Bourbon on a Limited Release Napa Valley Red Blend
It’s a Red Blend finished in Larceny Bourbon Barrels – a Wine designed for the Whiskey Lover
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260319763768/en/Cooper-Thief-Cellarmasters-Collaborates-with-Larceny-Bourbon-on-a-Limited-Release-Napa-Valley-Red-Blend
Is Guinness really ‘good for you’?
Guinness, like other Irish stouts, enjoys a seasonal popularity every St. Patrick’s Day. It has also been touted as being “good for you,” at least by its own advertising posters decades ago.
https://www.kcra.com/article/guinness-health-benefits-risks-2026/70766805
We Ranked 8 Classic IPAs (and 1 Pale Ale) You’ll Find at Any Store — One Clearly Stood Out
Think you can pick your favorite beer from a lineup? We put it to the test with some of America’s most popular pale ales.
https://www.foodandwine.com/pale-ale-taste-test-11929168
7 Things You Should Know About Old Overholt
The Oldest Continuously Operating Whiskey Brand in the U.S.
https://vinepair.com/articles/ntk-old-overholt/
Gen Z and Millennials expect more from alcohol-free beer
Attitudes to alcohol consumption are changing among adult-age Gen Z and Millennials, who are increasingly expecting more from the alcohol-free beer category, according to a new report.
https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2026/03/gen-z-and-millennials-expect-more-from-alcohol-free-beer/
New Dalmore
- Single malt Scotch whisky The Dalmore, handled in the U.S. by Spirit of Gallo, is introducing Select Editions 2007 and 2010, 18-year-old and 15-year-old vintage whiskies, respectively. Both were matured in rare Sherry barrels from Gonzalez Byass, including Matusalem, Apostoles, and Amoroso. The Dalmore Select Edition 2007 is at 46.7% abv and retails at $550 a bottle, while Select Edition 2010 is at 49.1% abv and retails at $250. Both luxury malts are rolling out to select retail and fine dining establishments in the U.S.
A New Wine Label Promotes Workers’ Rights
Hardly anyone in the natural wine world is talking about environmental justice for those who pick the grapes, labor advocates say. The Guardian Vital label aims to change that.
A worker picks leaves from a conveyor belt on a harvester during the harvest of grapes from a Central Valley wine grape vineyard in Lodi, California on October 13, 2025. For more than a century, Lodi’s grape-growers have supplied the old wineries that make this Californian city famous. But rocketing costs, falling demand and competition from imports mean some are now abandoning their vineyards. (Photo by Patrick T. Fallon / AFP) (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images)
https://insideclimatenews.org/news/18032026/california-wine-label-promotes-workers-rights/
New Rumple
Diageo is extending its Rumple Minze brand with Cinnamint Whiskey, a 100-proof flavored whiskey that combines cinnamon with Rumple Minze’s signature peppermint flavor. Diageo says the extension is inspired by the trend toward “fire and ice” shots in bars. Rumple Minze Cinnamint Whiskey will roll out nationally starting this month in 750-ml. bottles priced at $20, along with 375-ml., 50-ml., and 1-liter sizes.
As Americans drink much less wine, kosher demand stays strong
Across the United States and globally, wine consumption is declining.
https://www.clevelandjewishnews.com/jta/as-americans-drink-much-less-wine-kosher-demand-stays-strong/article_0f575dc5-219e-5997-bf4d-f30993483212.html
The Top-Selling Tequilas in the US Right Now, According to Total Wine & More
Tequilas rooted in traditional methods are seeing rapid growth as consumers become more focused on production and provenance.
https://www.foodandwine.com/top-selling-tequilas-in-america-total-wine-data-2026-11931903
How Michter’s Celebration Sour Mash Became an American Whiskey Unicorn
When it comes to the most sought-after American whiskeys, Kentucky-based Michter’s has at least a few bottles in contention.
https://vinepair.com/articles/michters-celebration-sour-mash-unique-american-whiskey/
Wine drinkers show lower heart risk than other alcohol consumers, study finds
A study of 340,000 adults suggests not all alcohol carries the same risk – even at low to moderate levels, beer, cider and spirits were linked to higher mortality, while wine was associated with a lower risk.
https://www.euronews.com/health/2026/03/21/wine-drinkers-show-lower-heart-risk-than-other-alcohol-consumers-study-finds
This New England IPA Has a Cult Following — and It’s at Trader Joe’s
Brewed in Maine with Amarillo, Centennial, and Simcoe hops, the citrusy IPA has become a sought-after find at the chain.
https://www.foodandwine.com/trader-joes-craft-beer-maine-beer-company-lunch-ipa-11929893
Who Is George Clooney’s New Non-Alcoholic Beer Even For?
For months, trade insiders have chewed on rumors that this day would come.
https://vinepair.com/articles/who-will-drink-george-clooney-new-non-alcoholic-beer/
New LUX Row
Kentucky’s Lux Row Distillers has released the 12th edition of Blood Oath whiskey, a Kentucky Straight Bourbon finished in Montepulciano and Sangiovese casks. The whiskey, like all Blood Oath releases, is bottled at 49.3% abv (98.6 proof), with this batch limited to 17,000 3-pack cases. The Bourbon itself is a blend of 9-year-old and 12-year-old Bourbons with a 7-year-old Bourbon finished in the two types of wine casks. Blood Oath Pact 12 carries a suggested price of $130 a bottle. While the overall release totals 51,000 bottles, 1,400 will be reserved for a future Trilogy offering, in which the brand re-releases three of its library whiskies at once. Lux Row is part of Luxco, the branded arm of MGP Ingredients.
Buffalo Trace creates second Daniel Weller whiskey
Sazerac-owned Buffalo Trace Distillery has released the second edition of its experimental Daniel Weller series, crafted from spelt wheat.
https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2026/03/buffalo-trace-creates-second-daniel-weller-whiskey/
Are Dirty Martinis becoming too dirty?
In an era where ‘more’ is often mistaken for ‘better’, the Dirty Martini has become a case study in taking things too far. Extra dirty, filthy, and sometimes downright swampy – today’s orders show signs of a cocktail pushed well past its original intent. And consumers are into it.
https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2026/03/are-dirty-martinis-becoming-too-dirty/
New laws for Georgian vineyards spark corruption fears
Under new laws, Georgian winemakers will have to seek state approval before setting up commercial vineyards from May. The regulations are intended to boost vineyard quality, but winemakers warn they’ll penalise small businesses, and worry the risk of corruption runs high.
https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2026/03/new-laws-for-georgian-vineyards-spark-corruption-fears/
What Does Single Pot Still Mean in Whiskey?
It’s a question that, across culture, politics, and religion, the Irish have been asking themselves for decades: How can we set Ireland apart from our counterparts in the U.K.?
https://vinepair.com/articles/ask-a-distiller-what-does-single-pot-still-mean-in-whiskey/
Consorzio Asti DOCG Unveils New Rosé Sparkling Wine
The new product (which may be bottled starting thirty days after publication) will be a blend composed of Moscato grapes intended for Asti DOCG (70% to 90%) and Brachetto grapes intended for Brachetto d’Acqui DOCG (10% to 30%). It may be offered in all styles, from sweet to extra brut, thus giving producers the flexibility to adjust residual sugar according to their stylistic choices and the needs of different markets potentially interested in this new category.
https://wineindustryadvisor.com/2026/03/24/consorzio-asti-docg-unveils-new-rose-sparkling-wine/
Prohibitionists Still Going after Wine
A shadowy international organization is trying to put warning labels on your favorite Cabernet and Chardonnay.
https://www.wine-searcher.com/m/2026/03/prohibitionists-still-going-after-wine
Can Beer Really Upgrade Your Lawn? Natural Light Is Betting on It
Backed by studies on brewing byproducts, the new product hints at a different approach to lawn care.
https://www.foodandwine.com/natural-light-lawn-brew-fertilizer-11933024
Wine producers celebrate Prosecco naming ‘win’, as EU trade deal to boost prospects for Aussie exporters
Through the Wine Agreement, Australian wine exporters will see additional benefits. Importantly, the new agreement includes protections for Australian wine exporters that will allow all other existing grape variety names to be used indefinitely, even if they become an EU GI in the future.
https://winetitles.com.au/wine-producers-celebrate-prosecco-naming-win-as-eu-trade-deal-to-boost-prospects-for-aussie-exporters/
New JD
Brown-Forman has introduced the latest releases in Jack Daniel’sseries of age-stated whiskies: 14-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey Batch 2, 12-Year-Old Batch 4, and 10-Year-Old Batch 5. All three are made from Jack Daniel’s mash of 80% corn, 12% malted barley, and 8% rye. The 14-year-old is bottled at 58.8% abv, the 12-year-old at 53.5% abv, and the 10-year-old at 48.5% abv. Jack Daniel’s 14-, 12-, and 10-Year-Old Tennessee whiskeys will be available in limited quantities across the U.S., retailing at $150, $100, and $90, respectively. Excluding flavors and RTDs, Jack Daniel’s was at just below 4.5 million cases in the U.S. in 2025, according to Impact Databank.
This Distiller Debunks The Widespread Myth of the Neck Pour
Heaven Hill’s Conor O’Driscoll says there’s no science to support it
https://whiskyadvocate.com/Whiskey-Neck-Pours
Arizona is growing nearly 80 types of wine grapes, new report finds
Until now, no data existed to show exactly what was being grown, where, or how much it was worth.
https://www.12news.com/article/money/economy/arizona-wine-growers-new-study/75-3b22af3b-0efa-429a-922b-8c9de9685714
Long Island Spirits sues LIV Golf
US-based Long Island Spirits, which makes LiV Vodka, has filed a lawsuit against the Saudi Arabian-backed golf league alleging trademark infringement.
https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2026/03/long-island-spirits-sues-liv-golf/
The States That Tax Beer the Most (2026)
In the U.S., taxes account for a higher percentage of the cost of beer than ingredients, labor, and other materials combined.
https://vinepair.com/booze-news/states-highest-beer-taxes-2026/
What Does ‘Dram’ Actually Mean in Whiskey?
Nowadays, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a bit of whiskey.
https://vinepair.com/articles/dram-whiskey-term-explained/
Pernod Ricard and Brown-Forman explore merger
Pernod Ricard and Brown-Forman have confirmed early-stage talks about a potential business combination that could create one of the world’s largest spirits groups. The proposed merger would unite major global brands and two founding family dynasties at the heart of the drinks industry.
https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2026/03/pernod-ricard-and-brown-forman-explore-merger/
Study: Wine drinkers might live longer
Here’s a reason why you might want to get a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon on your next trip to the store to have with dinner.
https://www.audacy.com/national/news/is-red-wine-good-for-health#
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