The Cocktail That Defines Every Decade Since Prohibition
There are several cocktails that can claim “cocktail-of-the-decade” status within a given 10-year period; however, a handful of drinks stand out as particularly emblematic of a given time, both at the bar and beyond. This article humbly aims to pinpoint these special drinks.
Can indigenous and international varieties co-exist in Italian vineyards?
The relationship between the likes of Merlot and Molinara or Viognier and Vermentino is not always an easy one, but Italian winemakers are striking a balance between the glamour and marketability of international varieties and the tradition and resilience of native ones.
To mark National Lemonade Day (3 May), Gin & Juice founders Dr Dre and Snoop Dogg have expanded their ready-to-drink (RTD) line with a canned beverage crafted with their ultra-premium Still G.I.N
Martignetti Companies to Acquire RNDC’s National Control State Business
Martignetti Companies and Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC) today announced that they have reached an initial agreement for Martignetti to acquire RNDC’s Control State operations.
NZ Winegrowers joins global call for white wine emoji
New Zealand Winegrowers wants wine lovers to raise their glasses this month, as it launches the ‘The Great White Wine Toast’ – a global campaign calling for the creation of an official white wine emoji alongside the existing red wine emoji.
As with bourbon, obituaries for the tequila industry have already been queued up. The boom is supposedly over and no one is drinking it any more. Time to move onto BuzzBallz…
New international research has reignited the debate on the relationship between alcohol and health, suggesting that not all alcoholic beverages have the same effect on the body. The study, which analyzed more than 340,000 adults in the United Kingdom, shows that light or moderate wine consumption is associated with lower mortality rates compared to other types of alcohol and even compared to total abstinence in certain specific cases.
High Noon Launches Golf-Inspired Transfusion Vodka Seltzer as Its First Limited Flavor
High Noon Transfusion, which is made with real vodka and juice and tastes like the classic grape-juice drink with accents of lime and ginger, is now available nationwide but in finite allocations in each market.
Virginia Distillery blends Bourbon and American single malt
The Split Barrel Project is a new series from Virginia Distillery Co, with the first release combining Kentucky straight Bourbon with American single malt (ASM).
US President Donald Trump has removed barriers on Scotch and Irish whiskey imports following the state visit by King Charles. Industry figures have welcomed the relief after months of declining exports and mounting financial strain.
If you love red wine but hate the stains, don’t despair. Red wine stains can be removed from almost every type of fabric if you follow our best advice and act fast. Learn how to get red wine stains out of clothes, table linens, upholstery, and carpet.
Mastiha: what is it and why is it gaining in popularity?
What do you picture when you think of a Greek island? Sun? Gyros? Amanda Seyfried frolicking down a sandy beach? On Chios, though, a UNESCO-protected cluster of twenty-four villages has been quietly producing something far more distinctive. Mastiha, the resin-based spirit made here for millennia, is suddenly gaining momentum with bartenders and drinkers worldwide – and positioning itself as Greece’s next breakout spirit.
Monika Alcobev on Tequila’s cultural shift in India
Over the past decade, Tequila has undergone a significant transformation in its consumption and perception in the Indian market, evolving from being primarily enjoyed as a shot to a spirit suitable for sipping. For Jose Cuervo, it took three attempts to successfully establish momentum in the country’s competitive spirits market
Plus, Is it too late to save wine, coffee, chocolate? + The states with the lowest ability to resist food cravings + all of the other Good + Tasty news you need
Could rye whiskey become official spirit of the US?
Vermont-based WhistlePig Distillery is on a mission to put rye back at the centre of American whiskey culture with a campaign to make it the official spirit of the US.
Restaurant wine sales fall as value and new trends drive US growth
On-trade wine sales have dropped sharply in recent years, but pockets of growth are emerging across value-driven, white and sparkling categories. Changing consumer habits are reshaping how diners engage with wine, with flexibility, affordability and experimentation leading the way. Kathleen Willcox reports.
Dating is on the decline in the US as costs rise, according to a new study commissioned by Maison Louis Jadot, with consumers becoming more selective about how they spend on wine.
The Wines That Changed How America Drinks, Decade by Decade
Walking into a wine shop in 2026 looks a lot different than it would have in the 1970s. Where shelves might have been lined then with jugs of Carlo Rossi California Chablis, shoppers might now find a buttery bottle of Rombauer or a niche Chardonnay from France’s Jura region.
The top 50 breweries in the US have been ranked by the Brewers Association in its annual report based on volume output for 2025. db looks into the findings.
For the first time, the survey asked respondents about AI and discovered that not only were a full 25% using AI for wine recommendations, but 40% of respondents were very happy with the recommendations, while 33% were somewhat happy. A mere 1% were dissatisfied.
Kentucky distiller charged with criminal loan deception
A grand jury has charged Darron Dillow, co-owner of Limestone Farms Distillery, with “theft by deception” for allegedly using a neighbour’s farm as collateral to secure a loan worth more than US$10,000, without their permission.
Conor McGregor settles lawsuit over Proper No. 12 whiskey but can’t resist one last jibe
The UFC champion and drinks entrepreneur Conor McGregor has settled a dispute with fellow fighter Artem Lobov, who claims he was entitled to 5% of the sale price of whiskey brand Proper No. 12.
Consumers Want to Buy Wine. Why Are We Making It So Hard?
There’s a lot of conversation right now about softening demand in the wine industry. Traffic is down, consumers are more selective, and younger buyers don’t always engage in the same way the industry is used to.
Study links breathalyzer apps to shifts in drinking habits
New research suggests that repeated use of mobile breathalyzers is associated with changes in how people drink and assess intoxication. The findings add to a broader picture of consumers engaging more actively with tools that track health and alcohol intake.
Host of the Italian Wine Podcast Receives Vinitaly Lifetime Achievement Award
Professor Attilio Scienza, host of the Italian Wine Podcast show “Everybody Needs a Bit of Scienza”, has been awarded Vinitaly’s highly prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at a formal inauguration ceremony in Verona on Sunday 12 April 2026. Launched in 2025, the Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes figures who have made a fundamental contribution to the Italian wine sector.
Why Alcohol Distribution Is Different — and Why That Matters
Alcohol distribution is treated differently because it must address unique economic and public interest risks. After Prohibition, states began adopting the three-tier system to rebuild the marketplace in a way that prevents any one supplier or retailer from dominating while ensuring safeguards around public health and safety. This system promotes transparency and ensures oversight
The Trump administration has launched a platform to process US$166 billion worth of refunds on tariffs the US Supreme Court ruled unlawful in February.
The Soil Story: Understanding Terroir Across Willamette Valley’s AVAs
When wine lovers talk about Oregon Pinot Noir, they often mention “terroir,” that magical combination of soil, climate, and topography that gives each wine its unique character.
‘Widespread devastation’: Frost damages grape buds across multiple Eastern states
Overnight temperatures dropped into the mid-20s from New York down to Virginia. What it means for a lot of wineries is far less fruit to harvest this fall.
Gallo-owned Four Roses Bourbon has launched the second annual installment of its Single Barrel Collection, dedicated to the distillery’s 10 unique recipes.
Diageo has extended Captain Morgan’s malt-based RTD offerings with the new Sliced Colada Style Drink Variety Pack. The new 12-packs of 12-ounce cans carry a suggested price of $19 and contain four Piña Colada-inspired flavors. The drinks are all at 5% abv and come in Piña Colada, Mango Colada, Passionfruit Colada, and Strawberry Colada. The new variety pack is now available in retailers across the U.S.
How much does one hectare cost to buy around the world?
Vineyard sales are far from being in decline and for the investor “scarcity beats scale”, reveals the new Wealth Report by real estate consultancy Knight Frank. But which regions are “trading up” in value terms? db reports.
Committee Advances American Wine Truth in Labeling Legislation
AB 1585 would require that any wine labeled “American” be made from 100 percent American-grown wine grapes. This standard aligns the national designation with the same requirement California has long applied to wines labeled “California.”
How Technology Is Transforming No- and Low-Alcohol Wine
From non-traditional yeasts to nano-membrane filtration, a wave of innovation is helping winemakers rebuild what’s lost when alcohol is removed from wine
Sales of Scotch in US monopoly states rebounded last month, driven by New Hampshire, according to data from the National Alcohol Beverage Control Association (NABCA).
A Guide to Germany’s New Wine Classification System
Germany’s updated wine law—which is mandatory from the 2026 vintage—introduces PDOs, PGIs, and stricter regional control, but understanding the new hierarchy won’t necessarily be easier
Is Your Wine a Brand or a Label? Here’s One Way to Find Out For Yourself.
There are well over a million different wines on shelves and lists. Which would be missed if they disappeared? Artificial Intelligence could help to provide that answer.
Mark Anthony Brands has launched Mike’s Dirty Lemonade, a new non-carbonated offshoot of the Mike’s Hard Lemonade brand. The new malt-based drinks are inspired by the “dirty soda” trend—in which extra flavors are added to a soft drink—and come in at 4.5% abv in four flavors: Dirty Lemon Secret, Dirty Cherry Brew, Very Berry Grape, and Pineapple Haze. The new releases will be promoted with the “Made with Real Character” campaign featuring a trio of anthropomorphic lemons with attitude. Along with Mike’s, Mark Anthony Brands also markets malt-based heavyweights like White Claw and Cayman Jack, among others.
American Airlines cabin crew allegedly served fake fizz on flight
A flight attendant reportedly mixed still Chardonnay wine with carbonated water to “make” sparkling wine after the airline ran out of bottles of fizz.
Trade war meets tradition: Canadian Jews confront a Manischewitz-free Passover
The ban on American booze, which came in response to the country’s tariffs, has “created a meaningful opening” for Israeli wineries in Canada, according to a wine executive.
The best (of the worst) industry April Fool’s jokes 2026
It’s the one day of the year when journalists everywhere read every press release twice – and still don’t trust it. To save you the guesswork, we’ve rounded up 10 of the best drinks industry pranks that have been doing the rounds this April Fool’s Day
Harvest Hill Beverage Company has extended spirits-based RTD SunnyD Vodka Seltzerwith a new “Purple” flavor. The 4.5% abv limited time offering is lightly carbonated and calls back to a pitcher of “purple stuff” seen in a 1990s SunnyD commercial. The release carries a suggested price of $10 a 4-pack and will be supported by social activations and influencer marketing asking “What does Purple taste like to you?”
Infographic: Who Really Pays for Tariffs?
These Scholars Tracked a Bottle of Wine To Find Out.
Who benefits from wine shipping limits? Not states, not producers, not consumers.
Ninety years on, the rules states built beneath the 21st Amendment are costing them money, costing producers markets, and costing consumers choice. The authority to change them has always been there.
What makes a great site for Trentino Pinot Grigio?
Even in Italy, Pinot Grigio is far from homogenous. In the best sites of Trentino, producers like Mezzacorona are showing how the variety can match easy-drinking charm with “elegant sapidity”.
US firm MGP Ingredients will pause operations at Kentucky distilleries Limestone Branch and Lux Row Distillers as whiskey demand drops, impacting 33 jobs.
Red blends aren’t a new concept — they’ve existed in regions like Bordeaux and the Southern Rhône for centuries — but it’s certainly a category that continues to evolve.
How Dogfish Head Finally Found Growth Again — With the Grateful Dead
Dogfish Head became a top-20 craft brewery in America in 2010, but in 2019, sales growth stopped and started trending downward the following year due to heightened competition in an increasingly localized, IPA-crazed market.
Scientists Call for Urgent Action on Glyphosate, Citing Strong Links to Cancer
Newer research is now “so strong that no additional delays in regulation of glyphosate can be justified.” Guest article by Carey Gillam of The New Lede, reprinted with permission. .
Nearly a decade after buying its first Tennessee site, Buffalo Trace owner Sazerac has revealed the name of the distillery, which is set to launch its first whiskey this summer.
Brown-Forman has released a new Zero Sugar variety 6-pack for its Jack Daniel’s & Coca-Cola spirits-based RTD. The new pack contains two cans each of Jack & Coca-Cola Zero, Jack & Coca-Cola Cherry Zero, and Jack & Coca-Cola Vanilla Zero, all at 5% abv and 100 calories per can. The new variety pack is now available nationwide for a suggested price of $17 a 6-pack. Last year, Jack Daniel’s & Coca-Cola was up 6% to 739,000 cases in the U.S., according to Impact Databank.
Aaron Paul and Bryan Cranston Launch Dos Hombres Tequila, Starting With a $40 Blanco and $50 Reposado
Produced in Amatitán, Jalisco, the tequilas are the work of maestro tequilero Julio Cova at Tequilera Tap Distillery.
US wineries lose USD 357 million after Canada banned American wine
One year after Canadian provinces began removing US wines from store shelves in retaliation for Mr Trump’s tariffs, new data underline how the bans and “Buy Canadian” campaigns triggered a collapse in US wine exports. Full-year 2025 trade data from the Wine Institute shows that exports to Canada fell 78 percent year-on-year, driving a USD 357 million decline in value.
The number of female beer sommeliers has grown, with more than 25% of accredited beer sommeliers now being women. Could the sector be showing signs of diversifying? db finds out.
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.
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
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
With a long winemaking history, distinctive grape varieties and a developing wine tourism sector, Moldova is perfectly placed to win over new consumers.
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.
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.
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)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.?
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.
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.
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
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.
Diageo is introducing Bulleit Bourbon Mesquite Smoked Malt Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a limited-time release made with an experimental mashbill that includes 65% corn, 30% mesquite smoked malt, and 5% malted barley. During the malting process, a portion of the malted barley is smoked over mesquite wood to impart a smoky aroma.
Bottled at 46.5% abv, the new entry is positioned at $50 a 750-ml. and is rolling out in limited quantities nationwide. According to Impact Databank, Bulleit slipped an estimated 3.6% to 1.6 million cases in the U.S. market last year.
PEOPLE ARE DRINKING LESS THAN EVER. WHAT’S COUNTRY MUSIC TO DO?
In Nashville, some are wondering how a decline in drinking may affect artists’ own liquor brands and the songs they sing. “There are more weed songs for sure,” says one songwriter
Did tariffs on imported wines help American wineries? If so it’s hard to see.
American wineries faced headwinds in 2025 that included demographic shifts, reduced tourism, and higher input costs. You might think that tariffs on imported wines would have helped. They didn’t.
Yes, Japan Makes Wine—Here’s Why You Should Be Paying Attention
Defined by restraint, freshness, and food-first balance, Japanese wine is quietly booming—driven by indigenous grapes, precise craftsmanship, and a philosophy that favors harmony over power.
Michter’s Bet Early on an Annual 10-Year Bourbon — and the 2026 Release Shows Why That Call Endured
Relying on sensory evaluation instead of calendar deadlines, Michter’s releases its 10-year bourbon only when barrels meet its standards — a practice that has defined its consistency since 2000.
You may have seen, during your searches for new wines, some which are stated to have been aged in / under the sea. So, ‘why are wines aged in the sea’ and ‘are they really worth the money’?
Some of these mandates come from research and years of developing common sense — for example, don’t drink and drive or operate heavy machinery. Others are based on religious tendencies like dry counties in the South and limitations in Utah. And plenty are just plain weird.
Coravin Celebrates Milestone Sale of Their Two Millionth Wine By-the-Glass System
Coravin, the global leader in wine by-the-glass technology, is excited to announce the sale of its two millionth system, marking a major milestone in the brand’s journey to transform how wine is discovered and enjoyed around the world.
Heaven Hill Bottles Final Pours From a Historic Kentucky Rickhouse Before It Goes Dark
The release carries a suggested retail price of $199.99 and marks the first in a planned series of commemorative releases tied to the Deatsville campus, with additional expressions and events scheduled through 2027.
Bogle Family Vineyards Introduces Chenin Blanc & Riesling Varietals to National Wine Portfolio
Bogle 2025 Chenin Blanc and the Bogle 2025 Riesling. Produced from Bogle’s estate vineyards in Northern California’s Clarksburg AVA, the inaugural national releases of the Chenin Blanc and Riesling will be available at select retailers nationwide beginning March 2026, each with a suggested retail price of $11.
Santiago Marone Cinzano: ‘my generation wants wines that are ready to drink’
Generation Z want wines that are ready to drink now, rather than waiting for years, according to Santiago Marone Cinzano, the 10th generation member from the famous vermouth family who is forging his own way of making top quality Brunello di Montalcino. Arabella Mileham reports.
7 Pet-Friendly Lodi Wineries Where Your Four-Legged Friend is Always Welcome
Planning a wine country escape but can’t bear to leave your dog behind? In Lodi, you don’t have to choose between great wine and quality time with your furry friend.
Grain & Barrel Spirits’ Chicken Cock Whiskey has revamped its core portfolio, adding a new wheated Bourbon, which replaces the brand’s Small Batch Bourbon. The new whiskey is bottled at 47% abv, aged for at least five years, and is distilled from a mash of 68% corn, 20% wheat, and 12% malted barley. Chicken Cock Wheated Bourbon is positioned at $55 a 750-ml. and is now rolling out across the U.S.
How to Open an Old Bottle of Wine, According to a Sommelier
Wine director Drew Brady likens a 30-year-old cork to a 30-year-old person. Bodies, like corks, can feel physically sound when suddenly a moment of fragility comes along.
EU gives stamp of approval to Rioja’s viñedos singulares
The EU has approved Rioja’snew geographical indication ofviñedos singulares, the smaller geographical units that highlight terroir, following changes introduced by the Consejo Regulador (DOCa) over the last few years.
The identity of wine has changed dramatically in the last 100 years. No wonder the wine business has changed, too. Here’s that excerpt from Wine Wars II.
Cava’s apex expands as five new Paraje Calificado wines approved
Spain’s Ministry of Agriculture has ratified five additional single estate Cavas at the highest rung of the appellation’s hierarchy. The decision brings the total number of Paraje Calificado wines to 15 and confirms the category’s full organic status from the 2025 harvest.
Maker’s Mark, part of the Suntory Global Spirits range, is unveiling the 2026 release of its Wood Finishing Series: The Stewards Release. According to the company, the new entry was “inspired by the distillery’s operations teams who guide the Bourbon’s journey from first fermentation to final bottling.” The Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series includes novel expressions made using a wood stave finishing technique that Suntory says amplifies the distinctive characteristics of the Bourbon. The Stewards Release will be delivered in two batches: one at 59.4% abv, and the other at 56.65% abv. Both will retail at around $75. Maker’s Mark was roughly flat at 2.25 million cases in the U.S. last year, according to Impact Databank.
Huge Fake Wine Seizure in Italy
With exploitation, human trafficking and fraudulent wine, this week’s news roundup reads more like a police blotter.
The winery was originally founded 130 years ago by a Russian prince and, while changing hands several times over the years (including being collectivized during the Soviet Era), it was actively producing wine up until the full Russian invasion of the country on 24 February, 2022.
Is it best to consume hot or cold water between alcoholic drinks?
The question of whether warm or cold water is better to drink has led to viral discussions online. In the era of zebra-striping, where chasing an alcoholic drink with a soft drink or water is becoming increasingly popular, whether temperature plays a vital role in progressive drinks trends is still up for debate.
Prosecco has become a vital ingredient in some of the world’s most popular cocktails, including the Aperol Spritz. But how do producers really feel about their sparkling wines being used in mixology? Sarah Neish finds out.
Uncle Nearest allegedly hid $20m loan provided by Jay-Z
Kentucky lender Farm Credit Mid-America (FCMA) has accused Uncle Nearest of fraud, alleging that the Tennessee whiskey maker hid a US$20 million loan given to the brand by media mogul Jay-Z.
If it seems like the number of wines and wineries is always growing it is due in part to the fact that openings are so much more visible than closings. But new wineries enter the market and existing ones exit every year.
Heaven Hill has expanded the Evan Williams lineup with a new Blackberry flavored whiskey. The 32.5% abv extension is rolling out across the U.S. now and joins other flavored options from the brand like Honey, Apple, Peach, Cherry, and Fire (cinnamon). The new release carries a suggested price of $15 a 750-ml. Last year, Evan Williams was at approximately 2.9 million cases in the U.S. including flavors, according to Impact Databank.
Champagne sales unlikely to rebound in 2026
Following three years of declining shipments of Champagne, it’s hoped that the region will see a turnaround in 2026 – but that’s unlikely with production costs, exchange rates and market conditions as they currently are.
The landmark wine reference first published in 1971 will appear in a newly revised ninth edition. Hugh Johnson and Jancis Robinson MW again collaborate with maps editor Julia Harding MW on the latest version of a book widely regarded as a cornerstone of wine literature.
Are national drink days creating too much noise at the bar?
With more than 100 alcohol-themed awareness days now crowding the calendar, are these celebrations still worth toasting, or are they just marketing clutter?
Gallo Extends Fast-Growing Lucky One RTD Into Spiked Iced Tea
Spirit of Gallo’s Lucky One, which reached just under 1 million cases in its first full year on the market in 2025, according to Impact Databank, has extended into spiked iced tea, launching four new flavors across the U.S. The new releases are in Original (Sweet Tea), Half & Half, Peach, and Raspberry flavors and are made with vodka, with each 355-ml. can coming in at 100 calories. They join Lucky One’s original four varieties of lemonade in the brand range.
Lucky One’s Sweet Tea flavor is rolling out in 4-packs of 355-ml. for around $11 and the flavors can be found in the brand’s variety 8-pack, which carries a suggested price of $20. The brand is continuing its partnerships with Best Friends Animal Society and Lifeline Animal Project and in the last year has donated more than $1 million to help rescue dogs find homes.
The Term ‘Sommelier’ Is Losing All Meaning
When did everybody who’s good at something become a sommelier?
Biodynamic wine is a holistic approach to viticulture that goes beyond organic farming, focusing on vineyard ecology, natural cycles, and soil health. In this guide, we explore how biodynamic wines are made, what sets them apart, and how they taste.
A standard wine pour is 5 ounces. It sounds like a small detail, but that number quietly shapes how you host, how many bottles you need, and how guests experience the wine.
Suntory spirits sales fall in 2025 as demand drops
Japanese drinks group Suntory reported a 0.4% drop in alcohol sales last year due to a decline for spirits and a consumption slowdown in the US and Europe.
Spotted wing drosophila has gone from curiosity to complication across English and Welsh vineyards. Once the question was whether SWD had arrived; now it is about when it will bite and how quickly it might turn ripe fruit into a rot problem. James Bayley reports.
Why Champagne performed better in 2025 than the figures suggest
The year-end shipment figures for Champagne show a global decline in demand, but underlying consumption appears to have held up better than the headline numbers suggest.
Philadelphia’s Stateside Brands has expanded the Surfside RTD label with a new blueberry flavored lemonade. The new addition is at 4.5% abv and contains 100 calories per 12-ounce can. Surfside Blueberry Lemonade is available in 4-packs of 12-ounce cans that carry a suggested price of $11. In addition, the company has put out a new variety 8-pack featuring Surfside’s Half and Half expressions. The pack retails for around $20 and contains two cans each of Half and Half, Raspberry Half and Half, Mango Half and Half, and Blackberry Half and Half. Last year Surfside was named “2025 Spirits Brand of the Year” by Market Watch Magazine and the brand grew to 10.5 million cases in the U.S.
Can Wine Appellation Systems Withstand Climate Change?
Extreme weather is testing long-standing appellation rules on allowed grape varieties, vineyard locations, and more, intensifying the debate over the future relevance of geographical indications
From Olympic Powder to Alpine Pour: Inside Alto Adige Wine Country’s Mountain Terroir
Just miles from Cortina’s Olympic runs, Alto Adige’s winemakers harness snowmelt, soaring elevations, and tradition to craft Alpine wines built for endurance.
Brown-Forman’s Woodford Reserve has released Cabernet Sauvignon Barrel Finish, the latest whiskey in the brand’s Distillery Series. The Bourbon is bottled at 45.2% abv and was finished in French oak barrels previously used to mature Cabernet Sauvignon. The release carries a suggested price of $65 for a 375-ml. bottle and is now available at the brand’s distillery and in select retailers across Kentucky. In addition, the whiskey can be shipped to consumers in Kentucky, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, and Washington, D.C. Woodford Reserve was at 1.5 million cases in the U.S. last year, according to Impact Databank.
Jack Daniel’s & Coca-Cola intros lower-ABV cans
Brown-Forman has upped the size and lowered the ABV for the latest SKU in its Jack Daniel’s & Coca-Cola ready-to-drink (RTD) range in the US.
Crémant de Limoux: France’s First Sparkling Wine Region
Why you should swap the Champagne for Crémant, France’s first sparkling wines, which were made long before the country’s most famous fizz took centre stage.
Beer Is Your Ticket To Eating More Salad — Here’s How
Let’s get one thing straight from the get-go –- we’re not talking about some kind of sacrificial trade-off where you forgo drinking a beer until you’ve eaten a salad.
A former executive of Bardstown Bourbon Company (BBC) has filed a whistleblower lawsuit against the firm alleging gender discrimination and improper conduct.
Why Chile’s ‘forgotten’ ancestral grape is due a second renaissance
A decade ago, Miguel Torres sparked a País revival by proving Chile’s “forgotten” ancestral grape could make serious wine. Today, the producer predicts a second resurgence of the variety, thanks to its knack for withstanding climate change. Amelie Maurice-Jones reports.
The first Masters of Wine of 2026 have been announced
The Institute of Masters of Wine (IMW) has revealed the names of four individuals who have passed all stages of the Master of Wine examination — a cohort that includes the first female MW to be based in Italy.
Suntory Global Spirits has expanded cocktail brand On the Rocks with a new Whiskey Sour, made using Jim Beam Bourbon. The cocktail is bottled at 20% abv and is recommended to be served over ice with an orange wheel and maraschino cherry as garnishes. The Whiskey Sour is available in both 375- and 750-ml. bottles with the former retailing for around $13 and the latter for around $25. The new release is now available across the U.S. In 2025, On the Rocks was up 22% to 960,000 cases in the U.S., according to Impact Databank.
Why Does The New York Times Keep Telling You Alcohol Will Kill You?
Why has the world’s paper of record decided to publish so many stories about how awful alcohol is — and when will it end?
What Do Trees Really Do for Wine? More Than You Probably Think
From cooling vineyards to potentially shaping the notes in your glass, scientists and winemakers are just beginning to understand how forests influence flavor.
Too many wineries cling to “the way we’ve always done it,” and it is obviously not working for many winery operations right now. Traditional winemaking has its place, but tradition alone won’t help you stand out among thousands of competing brands in today’s challenging market.
Scaling up: Japan’s new wave of whisky distilleries
With new distilleries multiplying at home, Japanese whisky is entering a more competitive and regulated era – one that will test its biggest names and its newcomers.
Luxco’s Penelope Bourbon has released Barrel Strength 7-Year, the latest cask strength whiskey from the company. This whiskey is distilled from a mash of 70% corn, 23% rye, 5% malted barley, and 2% malted rye and bottled at 57.6% abv. Barrel Strength 7-Year is rolling out now in select markets across the U.S. The whiskey carries a suggested price of $60 a bottle, with Penelope releasing 13,000 6-packs.
A Year of Scanning: What You’re Really Drinking
Label scanning can tell a lot about wine, according to our Head of Advanced Solutions John Buckwell – and it says even more about you.
A Historic Supreme Court Decision Just Ended Trump’s Tariffs — With Far-Reaching Effects on Wine and Food Imports
The ruling overturns the administration’s use of emergency powers and opens the door to refund battles over more than $150 billion in duties paid by U.S. importers.
While corporate America stayed silent, a small wine importer risked his business to challenge Trump’s tariffs
Schwartz became the face of the fight to overturn Trump’s most sweeping tariffs — and he won, in a case that was decided by the Supreme Court on Friday.
How do people under 40 find their way into fine wine?
The fine wine sector has been operating on a series of false assumptions about how and why people engage with the category and become wine collectors, a new report from fine wine think tank Areni Global has claimed.
Heaven Hill Brands is introducing BernheimOriginal Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey 20th Anniversary Limited Edition. Bernheim’s 20th Anniversary Limited Edition is made from a special selection of barrels aged 10 years and is bottled at 115 proof (57.5% abv). It was produced at the Bernheim distillery and aged in rickhouses in Bardstown, Kentucky. Rolling out in limited quantities nationwide, the special edition wheat whiskey retails at $85 a bottle.
EU Council backs new no-alcohol wine definitions and updated labeling
EU rules being updated means better access to information on wine bottles, including ingredients and new digital label options, which makes it easier for consumers to choose products based on taste, nutrition, or personal preferences.
U.S. Census Report Shows Wine and Beer Exports Collapsed by $472 Million in 2025
Those exports fall under the Census Bureau’s “Wine, beer, and related products” sector, which includes sparkling and still wine, beer, vermouth, cider, alcohol-based ready-to-drink (RTD) products, and other fermented beverages. For wine alone, exports dropped by $428 million — a 33.5 percent loss from 2024, according to Robb Report.
‘Nearly a quarter in the drinks trade are thinking about leaving because of the culture’
Nearly a quarter of drinks professionals have considered leaving the industry because of harassment or discrimination, according to new data from Drinks United. Michelle Brampton, CEO of the WSET, and founding member of the Drinks United Programme Board, says the scale of the findings surprised even her and warns that junior staff are paying the highest price.
Louisville, Kentucky-based Michter’s has announced the latest batch of its 10-year-old Bourbon. The limited edition release is bottled at 47.2% abv with the distillery noting that many of the whiskies used in the blend are aged beyond 10 years. Michter’s 10 Year Bourbon carries a suggested price of $195 and will be available in limited quantities across the U.S. In addition to the 10-year-old Bourbon, Michter’s also offers limited edition bottlings like Michter’s 10 Year Rye and, even more rarely, 20-year-old whiskies.
Wine Tariffs Still Up in the Air
Doubt is the only certainty a bewildered wine industry can rely on as President Trump looks for alternatives to tariffs.
How the alcohol industry is rethinking R&D amid falling global consumption
The global alcohol industry is in structural retreat as global consumers continue to drink less. Producers are scrambling to reformulate beverage R&D and regain their falling profits.
15 Reasons Cruising is Ideal for Serious Wine Fans
First, you need to choose the right cruise line. Different lines target different demographics. Some target young families. Others target people who like dressing up for dinner.
Part of the Jell-O shot’s charm is its subversive nature. It’s a silly, sneaky booze delivery system cleverly wrapped up in a classic dessert that likely evokes a childhood memory or two
It’s no surprise to me as, Yiannis Karakasis has done it again with his latest work, the excellent, “Greek Wine Explained” that’s been published for 2026.
Beyond Chianti: A Guide to the Best Red Wines for Italian Meat Dishes
When people think of Italian red wines, Chianti is often the first name that comes to mind. And for good reason: its bright acidity and deep connection to Tuscan cuisine make it a classic. Yet, focusing only on Chianti means missing the extraordinary diversity that defines Italy’s food and wine traditions.
Red Wine vs. White Wine: Which Is Better For Your Heart?
When deciding whether to open a bottle of red wine vs white wine, you may wonder which is the healthier choice. Red wine is known for its heart-healthy benefits, but white wine also contains beneficial antioxidants.
The Wine Connoisseur: Don’t judge a wine by its screw cap
While screw capped wines might appear to be a modern trend, they were actually introduced in the United States by the E.&J. Gallo Winery during the 1950s and 1960s.
Mexico arrests mayor of Tequila for extorting distillers in alleged cartel scheme
The case exposed the dangers firms face when operating in Mexico, particularly in the tourist and industrial hub that props up a multi-billion-dollar sector but is also plagued by cartel violence.
The Finnish Long Drink, which jumped 20% to 3.3 million cases in the U.S. last year, according to Impact Databank, is adding a raspberry flavor to its portfolio. The new entry is gluten-free and canned at 5%-5.5% abv. The flavor is also launching in a Raspberry Zero Sugar extension. Long Drink’s raspberry offshoots are debuting exclusively in new variety packs. The brand’s regular 8-pack includes Citrus, Pineapple, Peach, and Raspberry, with a Zero Sugar 12-pack featuring the same lineup.
Sober shift: the bartenders choosing sobriety
With Dry January now firmly in the rear-view mirror, one cohort of drinks industry professionals shares why they’ve chosen to abstain from alcohol for good – and how they navigate sobriety in a world filled with booze
Chinese Wine Is No Longer Imitating Europe — It’s Defining Itself
As Ningxia and its sister regions shed imitation and embrace terroir, a confident new generation of Chinese wines is earning its place on the global stage.
Cellar Tracker: the ‘doom and gloom narrative’ of wine’s falling consumption is ‘a little overplayed’
According to Cellar Tracker’s CEO, the aptly named Eric LeVine, wine consumption is still in a healthy place, with dry January showing no inroads in the wine community. He talks to Arabella Mileham about the app’s insights and what it says about today’s collecting, buying and drinking habits.
The act of swirling, smelling, analyzing, and identifying the layered aromas in wine demands your undivided attention. It’s an offline, physically and mentally engaging practice.
Dry January drives shift from alcohol to cannabis in the US
As more Americans cut back on alcohol, Dry January is increasingly becoming a moment of substitution rather than abstinence. Cannabis drinks and edibles are gaining ground as consumers rethink intoxication, ritual and wellbeing, writes Kathleen Willcox.
Australian lager Foster’s, owned by Asahi Group Holdings but distributed in the United Kingdom by Heineken UK, will see its alcohol content lowered to 3.4% from this week. The brand joins a host of other best-selling beers who have joined the 3.4% gang.
Why Publix Keeps Its Liquor In Completely Separate Stores
When it comes to alcohol sales, the United States is a pretty quirky place, as laws about where beer, wine, and liquor can be sold differ from one state to the next.
Why Winter is the Perfect Season for White Wine: Breaking the Red Wine Myth
Ask most wine drinkers what they reach for in winter, and the answer is almost always the same: red wine. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah—bold, warming reds that seem perfectly suited for cold weather.
Redbreast Expands Its Iberian Series With Its First-Ever Moscatel Cask Release
Master blender David McCabe blended single pot still whiskey aged nine to 11 years, then finished it for 16 months in Moscatel-seasoned casks from Spain’s historic Bodegas Quitapenas.
Sazerac has announced Traveller Whiskey Full Proof, the latest release from brand created by musician Chris Stapleton and Buffalo Trace master distiller Harlen Wheatley. The whiskey takes the original Traveller blend and dials the abv up from 45% to 60.5%, a proof point chosen by Stapleton and his bandmates following a concert. The new release carries a suggested price of $40 a bottle and is now available across the U.S.
Tariffs drag Scotch exports to US down by 15%
Global Scotch whisky exports declined by 0.6% in value and 4.3% in volume in 2025, with a 15% drop in bottles shipped to the US since the 10% tariff was implemented, according to the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA)
Lofted Spirits’ Green River Distilling Co. has added a new high-proof wheated Bourbon to its portfolio, beginning February 13. The whiskey is made from a mash of 70% corn, 21% wheat, and 9% malted barley, with batches coming in between 54.5% and 58% abv. The first batch of Green River Wheated Full Proof Bourbon comes in at 54.65% abv and is aged between five and seven years. The new whiskey carries a suggested price of $50 a bottle and will launch in 25 markets across the U.S.
What Does the Latest Wine and Wellness Consumer Data Say About Organics?
A recent presentation from the Wine Market Council shows a growing portion of the market favors organically grown wines over sustainable. But are producers connecting with buyers?
The French system has since become a model for similar regulations in other countries (Italy, Spain, etc.). However, you could say that it turned 90 both last year and this year. The law was passed in 1935 and came into force in 1936.
Kentucky-based Heaven Hill Brands has filed a motion to dismiss a class action lawsuit alleging that its Lunazul Tequila is falsely marketed as ‘100% agave’.
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 322 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! A Masterclass With Deborah Parker Wong 🍷 Prepare to be inspired! In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down with one of the most influential figures in […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 321 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Crushin’ It in Boston: Redefining Wine Culture with Gabrielle Malina Grab a glass and settle in! This week on The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), Kim and Mark are joined by the powerhouse behind Boston’s […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 320 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Unveiling Perfection: Napa’s New Icon with Jayson Hu From a world-class collector to a visionary creator, Jayson Hu is redefining the pinnacle of Napa Valley luxury. In this episode, Kim and Mark sit down with […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 319 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Wine Digital Marketing With Molly Bossardt In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down with Molly Bossardt of Bread & Butter Digital Marketing to pull back the […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 318 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Sip, Sense, and Savor: Unlocking the Mindful Glass with Carrie Boyle Cheers, wine lovers! In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), your hosts Kim and Mark sit down with the incredibly multi-talented […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 317 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Tariffs, Triumphs, and the Supreme Court: A Conversation with Victor Owen Schwartz In this landmark episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down with a true titan of the […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 316 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! From Food Critic to Wine Titan With Meridith May In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), Kim and Mark sit down with a true powerhouse of the industry: Meridith May. As the […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 315 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Sustainability with Sandra Taylor In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark dive deep into the world of sustainable viticulture with special guest Sandra Taylor. As the author of […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 314 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! From Prescriptions to Stills with GlenPharmer Distillery In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down with Beth and Patrick Downing, the visionary owners of Franklin, Massachusetts’ own […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 313 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Decoding the Wine Label with Marie Cheslik Ever feel like you need a PhD and a Rosetta Stone just to pick a decent bottle of Cabernet? You aren’t alone. This week on The Wonderful World […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 312 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Parenting, Wine, and Playful Rhymes 🍷 Grab a glass and settle in! In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), Kim and Mark sit down with the witty and insightful Danielle Frank, author […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 311 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! The Liquid Jazz Experience with Inventor Michael Fors In this episode, Kim and Mark dive into the art of aeration with Michael Fors, a Massachusetts-based wine inventor and the creator of The Liquid Jazz Experience. […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 310 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Uncorking a New Way to Learn with Mistral Wine Cards In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), Kim and Mark sit down with Seth Cysewski, the visionary founder and inventor of Mistral […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 309 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Decoding Non-Alcoholic Wine with Rachel Martin Get ready for groundbreaking wine education on The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) as Kim and Mark host Rachel Martin, the visionary Founder and CEO of Oceano Wines ( […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 308 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Talking Whiskey With Colonel Craig Duncan Grab a glass 🥃 and join us for a very special episode as Kim and Mark take their first deep dive into the world of whiskey! We're thrilled to […]
