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The Liquor Industry News (08/20/26) magazine edition curated by Mark Lenzi (The Wonderful World of Wine) covers news, research, and innovation across the wine, beer, and craft beverage industries.
1. Drew Bledsoe on Washington Wine & Doubleback Winery
- Source: 425 Magazine (Denise Sakaki)
- Summary: Former NFL star quarterback Drew Bledsoe, who founded Walla Walla’s acclaimed Doubleback Winery, has been named the 2026 Honorary Chair for the Auction of Washington Wines. The article highlights Bledsoe’s role in promoting the Pacific Northwest wine industry, his personal journey as a winemaker, and the growth of his regional brand presence—including the Bledsoe Family Winery tasting room in downtown Walla Walla.
2. Sierra Nevada Introduces “Beer Soda” and Low-ABV Innovations
- Source: New School Beer + Cider (Ezra Johnson-Greenough)
- Summary: Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. is entering the low-ABV and hybrid beverage space with two major releases:
- Go-Two IPA: A 2.8% ABV full-flavored IPA created for drinkers looking to moderate alcohol consumption without switching entirely to non-alcoholic beer.
- Shred Beer Soda: A 4.5% ABV citrus-forward beverage inspired by Radlers and classic beer-soda mixes. Launching in a variety pack with Lemon, Orange, Lime Ginger, and Grapefruit flavors, it targets flavor-focused consumers looking for high-refreshment, easy-drinking options.
3. Cognitive Study Links General Intelligence to Wine Knowledge
- Source: PsyPost
- Summary: A study published in Intelligence & Cognitive Abilities evaluated 525 participants to explore the link between general intelligence (g) and domain-specific knowledge. Findings show that higher IQ scores consistently predict greater factual knowledge about wine, even when controlling for personal drinking habits or whether participants work in the alcohol industry. The study suggests high cognitive ability serves as a driver for acquiring complex, non-academic knowledge.
4. Top Global Cities for Craft Beer Enthusiasts
- Source: PorchDrinking
- Summary: A round-up exploring top global destinations for craft beer lovers, analyzing local brewing traditions and pub cultures. Featured hubs include:
- Portland, Oregon: Recognized for pioneering American craft beer and density of microbreweries per capita.
- Denver, Colorado: Highlighting the RiNo Art District’s taproom ecosystem and high-altitude brewing chemistry.
- Munich & Prague: Praised for deep historical roots, traditional lager production, and beer hall culture.
- Brussels & Melbourne: Noted for stylistic variety (Belgian lambics/sours) and creative botanical collaborations.
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