Liquor Industry News
The Wonderful World Of Wine (WWW)
By: Mark C Lenzi
CSW, CSS, CWAS, FWS, IWS*, SWS, OWE, IWM*
09-07-2026
Liquor Industry News
New Products
How to Visit Tequila Distilleries
A beginner’s guide to Wisconsin wines
What is Beer Soda?
7 Things You Should Know About Rolling Rock
The American Beer With a Mysterious Code on Every Bottle
https://vinepair.com/articles/ntk-rolling-rock
New Wine
- Washington’s Ste. Michelle Wine Estates has launched EstivalChenin Blanc, a new bottling from the state’s Columbia Valley. The new wine is the second in the Estival line, following last year’s Sauvignon Blanc and aims to build on the growing popularity of aromatic white wines in the U.S. Though carrying the more general Columbia Valley appellation, the company says that Estival Chenin Blanc is sourced from three vineyards—JMST Vineyard, Andrews Horse Heaven Hills Vineyard, and Archie Den Hoed Vineyard—which the company says allows the wine to show off the variety of soil types and climatic changes that are a feature of the region. The release is limited and is currently rolling out in select locations across the U.S., mainly in the on-premise.
Ancient Areni Reawakens
Armenia’s flagship red grape rises from obscurity to acclaim
World Cup Is Gone
Beer’s Summer Blues Remain. Now
https://vinepair.com/articles/hop-take-world-cup-beer-sales-analysis
Vermentino, Explained: The Distinctive Italian White Wine You Should Know
From Liguria to Tuscany to Sardinia, Vermentino is one of Italy’s most distinctive white wines, defined by salty coastal breezes, Mediterranean herbs, and a surprising ability to age.
https://www.foodandwine.com/italian-white-wine-vermentino-12058166
Want to Drink Rare Bourbons for a Good Price? Try Winning the Lottery
Bourbon’s popularity has made the spirit prone to immediate sellouts and inflated resale prices. That’s where state-run lotteries come in.
https://www.wineenthusiast.com/culture/spirits/bourbon-lotteries
5 Beers Professional Chefs Swear by to Beat the Heat
These crisp, refreshing beers are made for outdoor drinking.
https://www.foodandwine.com/chefs-favorite-summer-beer-12059270
‘You’re always right with wine’
Meet the woman behind 1 in every 4 bottles of Oregon wine sold in America.
https://fortune.com/2026/08/15/amy-prosenjak-oregon-wine
Stout, whiskey… wine?
Ireland’s small but determined vineyards making their mark
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c998513m85do
One Of The Best Red Wines For Braising Ribs Is Full-Bodied And Easy To Find
Red wine brings acidity, fruit, and depth to the braising liquid, which eventually becomes part of the savory sauce swimming around your slowly simmering ribs
https://www.tastingtable.com/2234308/best-red-wine-braising-ribs-full-bodied-cabernet-sauvignon
Trump tariffs hit US wine imports
US wine imports fell sharply in both volume and value during the first half of 2026, according to analysis of customs data by the Spanish Wine Interprofessional Organisation (OIVE).
2026 Price Map
What an Old Fashioned Costs on Average in All 50 U.S. States
https://vinepair.com/articles/average-old-fashioned-price-every-state-map
Wax on wine bottles: does it provide an extra barrier for oxygen?
Wax is widely used instead of a standard capsule, and some winemakers maintain that it provides extra protection against oxygen ingress. Finally, this has been studied scientifically.
https://jamiegoode.substack.com/p/wax-on-wine-bottles-does-it-provide
WHAT IS RUM?
LIGHT, GOLD, DARK AND SIPPING, EXPLAINED
https://kosherwinedirect.com/blogs/kosher-wine-guides/what-is-rum-guide
The 50 Most Popular Cocktails in the World in 2026
The world of cocktail culture is ever-changing.
https://vinepair.com/articles/50-most-popular-cocktails-world-2017
| Korbel Debuts Low-Alcohol Aire Expression |
| California’s Korbel sparkling wine, with volume of over 1 million cases in the U.S. annually, is introducing Korbel Aire, a low-alcohol entry bottled at 7% abv with 70 calories a serving. Aire is hitting the market now, retailing at $14 a bottle. “With Korbel Aire, we are proud to introduce a lower-alcohol alternative for casual, everyday gatherings,” said Gary Heck, president and owner of Korbel Champagne Cellars. “Korbel Aire represents an important moment for the winery, catering to a new generation of drinkers who seek balance and quality while delivering a bright, crisp, and refreshing option to consumers looking for a more mindful way to enjoy Korbel’s signature sparkle without compromise,” added Tessa Reynolds, Korbel brand director at marketer Freixenet Mionetto USA. |
The Next Big Thing in Nonalcoholic Beer? Functional Ingredients
From adaptogens and electrolytes to lion’s mane and amino acids, a new generation of NA beers is putting wellness front and center.
https://www.foodandwine.com/functional-nonalcoholic-wellness-beer-12061436
The 12 best wine estates for tasting Pinot Noir
With cooling ocean breezes and high-altitude vines, South African cellars are producing world-class Pinot Noir. Here’s where to taste the ‘heartbreak grape’…
https://www.timeout.com/cape-town/things-to-do/best-wine-estates-for-pinot-noir-tastings
Maker’s Mark Just Announced the 2026 Edition of Its Highly Allocated Cellar Aged Bourbon
This year’s release has the highest percentage of 14-year-old bourbon yet.
https://www.foodandwine.com/makers-mark-cellar-aged-2026-12061323
Burgundy sees earliest harvest in 500 years
Burgundy is seeing its earliest harvest in nearly 500 years, it has been revealed, with Domaine Leflaive confirming it began picking its parcel in Grand Cru Le Montrachet on Thursday, 13 August.
People with higher IQ scores tend to know more about wine, study finds
A new study indicates that people with higher general intelligence tend to possess more specialized knowledge about wine, even if they do not work in the wine industry.
The Best Beer Cities in the World for Craft Beer Lovers
A craft beer is more than just a drink!
What is Beer Soda?
Sierra Nevada Brewing introduces new low ABV innovations
Drew Bledsoe on Washington Wine
Doubleback, and More
Seven new Masters of Wine join largest class since 2021
Seven new Masters of Wine have been announced by the Institute of Masters of Wine, bringing the 2026 intake to 11, the largest annual cohort since 2021. The latest group also includes the first Masters of Wine based in Portugal and Hungary.
Sazerac moves into soju
Buffalo Trace owner Sazerac has entered the soju sector with the launch of Dalho and a ‘category-first’ 50ml format.
Fireball introduces Torch’d Vanilla flavor
Sazerac-owned Fireball Cinnamon Whisky has launched a new limited edition flavor called Torch’d Vanilla.
Bardstown Bourbon finishes whiskey in ex-Jura casks
Lofted Spirits’ Bardstown Bourbon Co has unveiled two annual releases, 2026 Discovery and Lochs of Jura Barrel Finish.
Is the Tequila in Your Seltzer Any Good?
The fizz makes cheap tequila easier to spot, not harder.
https://www.tequilareport.com/p/is-the-tequila-in-your-seltzer-any-good
Gallup: US drinkers shift to spirits as beer dips
Americans’ alcohol consumption has remained at a ‘record low’ of 54%, while longer-term trends show drinkers are moving towards spirits, according to a Gallup survey.
Koopers Whiskey finishes Bourbon in Texas oak
Family-owned blending house Koopers Whiskey has unveiled an eight-year-old limited edition Bourbon finished in Texas-grown white oak barrels.
Why Provence Sets the Gold Standard for Rosé
When the warm weather hits right, a chilled glass of rosé is hard to beat. But we’re not talking about just “any” rosé. We’re uncorking one from Provence.
This Kentucky Liquor Store Might Be The Best-Kept Secret On The Bourbon Trail
With pours so cheap, it feels like robbery
https://www.southernliving.com/evergreen-liquors-bardstown-kentucky-12062654
Can Heavy Metal Help Save Wine? This Festival Thinks So
The Blood of Gods Annual Merrymaking is bringing new energy — and new drinkers — to wine.
https://www.foodandwine.com/blood-of-gods-heavy-metal-wine-festival-12064806
Welcome to the World, Asti Rosato!
Fans of pink bubbly, this is for you! The EU has approved a new style of sparkling pink wine…
Sustainable Sips for Every Budget: Eco-Wines Under $25
*A Vines & Values Buying Guide*
Welcome to the World, Columbia Hills AVA!
According to the original petition—submitted in 2024 by Dr. Kevin R. Pogue on behalf of the owner of Cascade Cliffs Vineyard and Winery—the defining characteristics of the Columbia Hills AVA include the area’s topography, climate, and soil.
Wine Doesn’t Have an Image Problem, It Has a Frequency Problem
In reviewing the most recent results of the Wine Communications survey, Wine Market Council (WMC) Research Director Christian Miller said he was pleasantly surprised by one finding in particular.
https://www.winebusiness.com/news/article/322241
The Occasion Is Rewriting the Rules of Wine
Consumers are choosing beverages based on the occasion instead of the category. Bev recognized the change early, making premium California wine easier to enjoy wherever life happens.
https://www.dmagazine.com/sponsored/2026/08/why-more-people-are-drinking-wine-out-of-a-can
Angel’s Envy Is Releasing One of Its Most Experimental Bourbons Yet
The distillery’s latest limited release takes on one of whiskey’s most polarizing barrel finishes.
https://www.foodandwine.com/angels-envy-amburana-2026-distillery-series-12064995
Come Over October™ Survey Finds an Untapped Opportunity for Wine
Give People More Reasons to Come Together
What Makes a Great Wine List Today?
Encyclopedic lists and trophy bottles aren’t going away, but today’s best wine programs are finding new ways to stand out through thoughtful editing, distinct points of view, and more creative ways to guide guests
Wine and Fast Food; Wine and Football Teams. Matches Made in Heaven?
La Vieille Ferme is in a collaboration with KFC; Gusbourne has done a deal with a controversial football team. What’s going on?
https://robertejoseph.substack.com/p/wine-and-fast-food-wine-and-football
Champagne market shows signs of recovery after years of decline
Champagne shipments continued to fall in 2025, but the rate of decline slowed considerably as several leading houses returned to growth. Kathleen Willcox explores why distinctive brands, grower Champagnes and by-the-glass programmes are finding success in a challenging market.
Check out my gravel pit: why The Rocks is on the ascent
The Rocks AVA in Oregon has managed to keep a relatively low profile, at least internationally, but its unique terroir, made entirely of basalt cobblestones, is producing first-rate wines with a hint of Côte Rotie. Roger Morris reports.
The most sought-after beers in each US state
Favorite beers in every US state have been ranked in a new data-informed map which reveals the brands and trends gaining sales and attention in 2026. db looks into the findings.
BuzzBallz turns Pop-Tarts into RTDs
Sazerac-owned ready-to-drink (RTD) brand BuzzBallz has partnered with Pop-Tarts toaster pastries to introduce two limited edition flavors.
We Asked Cardiologists: Is Red Wine Still Good For Your Heart?
Moderate drinking may fit into a healthy lifestyle, but red wine should not be treated as heart medicine.
https://www.delish.com/food/a73486712/is-wine-good-for-your-heart
Could Grenadian rum become a global powerhouse?
Distillers in Grenada have built a strong fanbase at home and have every reason to be able to replicate this success overseas.
The Kraken rum dives into RTDs
Proximo Spirits’ The Kraken spiced rum has entered the canned ready-to-drink (RTD) category with two classic flavors.
From “Swicy” to “Newstalgia,” Here Are Some Flavor Trends to Consider for Your Next Beer
The next popular tastes can be difficult to predict, but there are ideas out there aplenty—and, in choosing, it helps to understand the longer arc of craft beer and our wider cultural context.
https://www.beerandbrewing.com/swicy-to-newstalgia
The latest from Boston Beer Innovation Incubator
Introducing Rally Dog™ Vodka Ade, the newest ready-to-drink cocktail from Boston Beer’s innovation incubator.
https://www.bostonbeer.com/news/2026/08/new-rally-dog-vodka-ade-serves-up-sports-drink
Alcohol at the Supreme Court
During the 2025-26 term, the justices pondered the Founding Fathers’ drinking habits as they considered a law barring habitual drug users from possessing guns. In the term ahead, they may return to the topic of alcohol in early America if they take up a case on a 19th-century law prohibiting at-home production of distilled spirits. Indeed, the court and alcohol have a long history: Here’s a brief overview of some of the court’s most notable alcohol-related rulings.
https://www.scotusblog.com/2026/08/alcohol-at-the-supreme-court
Changing palates
“Nothing else in our lives remains static for decade after decade, so why should our taste in wine not evolve?”
https://worldoffinewine.com/news-features/taste-wine-evolve
WINE AND HEALTH
DR. LAURA CATENA ON THE SCIENCE BEHIND MODERATE DRINKING
Redwood Empire unveils The Hyperion limited edition blend
The latest release from California’s Redwood Empire is a one-off blend containing four distinct styles of whiskey, including the brand’s own single malt.
Notre Dame
Diageo’s Guinness has extended its partnership with Notre Dame Athletics, keeping the brand as the Official Beer of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish Alumni and Fans for another three seasons. The brand is also extending its partnership with football legend and brand ambassador Joe Montana. To celebrate the extended partnership, Guinness has released a Notre Dame branded can featuring the school’s “Football Leprechaun.” In addition, the brand—through its Guinness Gives Back program—the school, and Montana will all work with local charities as part of the partnership. Guinness grew 3.5% to 930,000 barrels in the U.S. last year, according to Impact Databank.
‘Tasting enough wines’ will not make one an expert, research paper shows
A new intelligence study has torn down the assumption that you can become a wine connoisseur simply by tasting a lot of wines. “Our data tells a different story,” the lead researcher reveals.
NFL legend is turning his Walla Walla winery into a destination
The new Bledsoe Family Winery tasting room is hosting a grand opening
https://www.tri-cityherald.com/living/food-drink/article316793441.html#storylink=cpy
SANGRIA VS TINTO DE VERANO
WHICH TO SIP?
A beginner’s guide to Wisconsin wines
Yes, Wisconsin does have wines worth trying. Discover the state’s grapes, appellations and best bottles with the help of experts from American Wine Project and Square Wine Co.
2026 Champagne harvest healthiest in 50 years
According to Champagne Drappier winemaker Hugo Drappier, this year’s harvest is the earliest in the producer’s history as well as the healthiest since 1976.
How to Visit Tequila Distilleries (the ultimate guide)
We answer all the top questions and recommend our favorite experiences
https://www.tequilareport.com/p/how-to-visit-tequila-distilleries-the-ultimate-guide
From Santorini to the Canary Islands
7 Volcanic Wine Regions Beyond Mt. Etna Worth Exploring
https://vinepair.com/articles/volcanic-wine-regions-beyond-mount-etna
Direct-to-Consumer Wine Shipping: What Every Wine Lover Should Know
Let’s roll things back and give you the basics on what you need to know.
We Asked 6 Wine Experts for Their Preferred In-flight Drink, and They All Recommended the Same Thing
According to one, this “helps your vacation start the second the wheels leave the ground.”
https://www.travelandleisure.com/sommeliers-what-to-drink-in-flight-12060019
Germany’s main grape harvest advances rapidly after an early start
Following the very early start to the grape harvest for Federweißer (new wine), the main grape harvest has also begun extremely early this year – earlier than ever before for the vast majority of estates.
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