Here is a summary of the stories featured in the Liquor Industry News (09-29-26) magazine curated by The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW):
đ· Podcast & Education
Episode 325: Adapting, Judging, and Unlearning Wine with Joe Roberts (SoundCloud / WWW) Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi chat with wine writer Joe Roberts about wine competitions, adapting to changing consumer trends, and unlearning outdated wine rules and norms.
đș Tips & Food Trends
The Pantry Staple That Makes Cheap Beer Taste 10x Better (Tasting Table) Explores simple household ingredients (such as a pinch of salt or citrus) that dive-bar regulars and beer enthusiasts use to cut bitterness and enhance the flavor profile of budget beers.
What Does It Take to Make Bourbon Ice Cream? (Food & Wine) Traces the step-by-step process of producing Graeterâs Bourbon Ball ice creamâfrom selecting custom barrels at New Riff Distilling to navigating state liquor-control regulations for alcohol-infused desserts.
đ„ Spirits & Industry Insights
Can Scotch Whisky Shake Off Its Old-Fashioned Image? (The Spirits Business) Examines how the Scotch category is attempting to modernize its branding, attract younger consumers, and break away from traditional “stuffy” stereotypes through innovative cask finishes and cocktail integration.
Amid a broader decline in alcohol consumption as more Americans opt for sobriety or moderation at bars and restaurants, Vermont craft brewery Lawsonâs Finest Liquids has introduced its first non-alcoholic craft beer.
Hard Mountain Dewâs $1 Million Bigfoot Bounty:
Source: The Drinks Business
In a high-profile marketing stunt, the team behind Hard Mountain Dew offered a $1 million reward for anyone who can provide verified evidence of a Bigfoot sighting.
đ· Business & Market Shifts
California Winery Put Up for Sale After Canadian Ban:
Source: The Drinks Business
A family-run California winery has been placed on the market following regulatory challenges and trade bans affecting U.S. alcohol exports to Canada.
World’s Most Expensive Bourbons in 2026:
Source: VinePair
VinePair highlights the booming secondary market and collectorI cannot directly browse or access real-time external links or specific web pages.
Here is a summary of the stories featured in the “Liquor Industry News” collection:
Liquor Industry News (Overview): An introductory curation by Mark C. Lenzi highlighting the latest product updates, trends, and news within the wine and liquor industry.
A Turtle Taught Millions of People to Cut Up Six-Pack Rings. Does It Still Matter?: A look back at Peanutâthe red-eared slider turtle whose shell was permanently warped into a figure-eight by getting stuck inside a plastic six-pack ring as a babyâand how this iconic story inspired a generation to cut up their plastic rings to protect wildlife, examining whether those habits still hold significance today.
3 Fall Beers You Should Be Trying in 2026: A seasonal spotlight recommending three distinct fall beer styles and selections to try as the weather shifts and beer enthusiasts transition into autumn drinking.
8 Best German Beers Available in the US: A curated guide to top-tier German beers widely accessible to consumers in the United States, perfect for Oktoberfest season and classic European beer styles.
Based on the curated collection from “The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)” titled LIQUOR INDUSTRY NEWS 09-20-26, here is a summary of the featured stories:
Red Wine-Inspired Recipes (Northern Express)
Explores creative cooking and baking recipes utilizing the seasonal harvests and unique culinary gifts inspired by red wine along the 45th parallel.
Is Wine Healthy for You? (California Grown)
A thoughtful look at the common health questions and cultural anxieties surrounding regular wine consumption, often brought up during social gatherings and book clubs.
7 Lies About Cristalino Tequila: Debunking Myths (Tequila Report / Jay Baer)
Clears up common misconceptions, misunderstandings, and rumors surrounding Cristalino tequila to help consumers better understand this specific style of spirit.
Albariño Is the Refreshing, Affordable White Wine You Should Be Drinking Right Now (Food & Wine)
Highlights Albariño as an approachable, crisp, and wallet-friendly white wine option that deserves a spot in your glass.
Here is a summary of the stories featured in the “Liquor Industry News” collection:
A Timeline of Craft Beerâs Darling Styles (VinePair): Traces the evolution of craft beer over the past 30 years, highlighting how popular styles have transitioned from semi-obscure curiosities to mainstream commodities.
Branch & Barrel Makes ‘Whiskey’ from Field Peas (The Spirits Business): Highlights a Colorado-based distillery that has released an aged specialty spirit featuring a unique mash bill made with 22% field peas.
12 Coffee Cocktails Worth Trying At Least Once (The Daily Meal): Explores a variety of coffee-based cocktails beyond the classic espresso martini, showcasing options suitable for brunch, happy hour, or after-dinner drinks.
Rare Beer Was Once a Collectorâs Dream. Now, Itâs a Liability. (VinePair): Examines the shifting market for rare and vintage beers, discussing how what used to be prized collector’s items have turned into financial and storage burdens.
Here is a summary of the stories featured in the “LIQUOR INDUSTRY NEWS 09-18-26” collection by Mark Lenzi:
Your Favorite College Sports Team Might Have Its Own Beer â Hereâs Why
Source: Food & Wine (Rich Manning)
Summary: Universities and alcohol producers are increasingly collaborating to release school-branded beers and beverages. These partnerships generate valuable revenue for athletic programs while providing fans and alumni with a thematic drink to enjoy on game day.
Why Soju Is The Ultimate Vodka Swap
Source: Food & Wine (Clara Wang)
Summary: The article explores how Korean soju serves as a great alternative to vodka in cocktails. With its neutral flavor profile and lower alcohol content, this traditional spirit (distilled from rice or other starches) offers a clean and versatile base for various drinks.
Italian Aperitivo Favorites: Classic Bottles, Spritz Ideas & European
Source: mydrinx.shop (Yulia Nazarini)
Summary: A look into the Italian aperitivo culture, detailing classic bottles, spritz recipes, and the relaxed European lifestyle surrounding pre-dinner social drinking.
Sazerac Revives Glenmore Whiskey
Source: The Spirits Business
Summary: Sazerac is bringing back the historic Glenmore whiskey brand, adding another classic label back into active production within the spirits market.
This link points to a curated digital magazine edition on Flipboard titled “Liquor Industry News 09-15-26,” created by beverage educator and retail operator Mark Lenzi.
About the Publication & Curator
Curator: Mark Lenzi, owner of Franklin Liquors (in Franklin, MA), co-host of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) podcast, and holder of multiple wine and spirits credentials (CSW, CSS, FWS, CWAS).
Format: A daily trade and consumer intelligence digest aggregating top headlines across spirits, wine, and beer.
Key Story Categories
While Flipboard magazine issues are periodically updated throughout the publication day, Mark Lenzi’s daily roundups cover key developments across the beverage sector:
Spirits & Distillery Releases
Coverage of new product launches, limited-edition cask finishes (bourbons, tequilas, rums), and market pricing data across domestic and imported spirits categories.
Global Vintage & Harvest Reports
Real-time production metrics, climate conditions, harvest timelines, and yield projections from major wine regions across North America and Europe.
Beer Industry & Consumer Trends
Updates on craft brewing developments, shifts in retail demand, agricultural ingredient updates (hops/grain supply), and sports/event-driven sales data.
Regulations, Licensing & Market Intelligence
Analysis of federal and state liquor laws, distribution policies, tariffs, retail dynamics, and emerging consumer behavior trends.
Here is a summary of the stories featured in the Liquor Industry News (09-14-26) collection on Flipboard:
Top U.S. Wine Towns for Fall Harvest: Highlights nine scenic U.S. wine destinationsâspanning from coast to coastâthat come alive during the late summer and fall harvest season, offering visitors a dynamic look at vineyards during peak grape picking.
Optimum Nutrition’s Protein Beer Review: A review of ChampionSips, a new limited-edition non-alcoholic pilsner created by Optimum Nutrition that incorporates 10 grams of plant-based protein per serving.
Virginia’s Emerging Whiskey Scene: Explores how Virginia is rapidly becoming one of the American South’s premier whiskey destinations, giving traditional bourbon hotspots like Kentucky strong competition through its rich history and growing craft distilleries.
Essential Bourbon Cocktails: A round-up guide covering 18 classic and essential bourbon cocktail recipes every whiskey fan should know.
Key Highlight: New research confirms that alcohol-free beverages do not act as a “gateway” to alcohol consumption. Instead, growing evidence shows they actively support moderation and healthy lifestyle choices for consumers looking to reduce overall alcohol intake. (Source: The Drinks Business / Jessica Mason)
Advocacy for Organic Farming
Key Highlight: Italian producer Candoni Wines is launching a fundraising effort to send U.S. organic farmers to Washington, D.C. for the Organic Farmers Association’s annual advocacy fly-in, connecting grape growers and agricultural producers directly with federal lawmakers. (Source: The Drinks Business / Michael Huband)
Top Scotch Whisky Rankings
Key Highlight: A curated list showcasing the top 25 Scotch whiskies highlighted for the current year, providing industry benchmarks across single malts and blended scotch categories. (Source: VinePair)
Here is a summary of the stories featured in the Liquor Industry News (09-09-26) collection curated by Mark Lenzi:
Sauvignon Blanc: The Wild Chameleon Grape (Vero / verovino.com) An exploration of Sauvignon Blanc, highlighting its characteristic light greenish hue, signature aromas of fresh grass and blackcurrant leaf, and its crisp, refreshing profile on the palate.
9 California Chardonnays You Should Try if You Don’t Like Big, Oaky Wines (VinePair) A curated selection of California Chardonnays aimed at drinkers who usually avoid the variety due to its reputation for heavy oak and buttery “butter-bomb” flavor profiles, showcasing lighter and more balanced alternatives.
Blue Nun Is Back with a Vengeance (The Drinks Business) A look at the resurgence of Blue Nun, the iconic German wine brand that dominated the 1970s and ’80s market (selling millions of bottles annually), as it attempts a modern comeback.
Check Out These Wineries and Vineyards for Sale Around Northern Virginia (Northern Virginia Magazine) A feature detailing notable winery properties, vineyard real estate, and wine business opportunities currently available on the market across Northern Virginia.
Here is a summary of the stories featured in the Liquor Industry News (09-08-26) collection curated by Mark Lenzi:
Op-Ed: Beer Can Be Saved from Pesticide Contamination (Food Tank) Focuses on the widespread use of glyphosate (the active ingredient in Roundup) in agricultural crops and discusses how pesticide contamination impacts beer production, outlining steps that beverage companies and consumers should take to address the issue.
New $100 Bourbon Blends 3 Coveted Kentucky Whiskeys (Food & Wine) Highlights the debut of Kentucky Boy, a new $100 bespoke bourbon blend created to honor master distiller Chris Morrisâs 50-year career. It combines three of Kentuckyâs most sought-after whiskeys and debuts at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival.
French Wine Yields Drop to Historic Low (France 24) Reports that French wine production is projected to hit its lowest harvest in roughly 70 years, with an estimated 6% drop in output following severe summer heatwaves and drought. In response, France announced over âŹ1 billion in emergency support for affected producers.
Woodford Reserve Explores “Super Seasoned” Oak (The Spirits Business) Covers Woodford Reserve’s latest whiskey innovations and barrel aging techniques, focusing on the use of specially “super seasoned” oak wood to influence flavor profiles.
Here is a summary of the stories featured in the Liquor Industry News (09/07/26) magazine curated by Mark Lenzi:
Liquor Industry News Overview (thewonderfulworldofwine.education) An industry update featuring new product releases, market guidance, and educational insights curated by wine certified specialist Mark C. Lenzi.
For Savory Pot Roast, Cook It In This Popular Wine (Tasting Table) A guide on elevating pot roast dishes by selecting and cooking with specific popular wine varietals to enhance savory flavors and tenderize the meat.
Windows on the World Was More Than a Restaurant â It Was a New York State of Mind (Food & Wine) A look back at the legacy and impact of the iconic NYC top-floor restaurant Windows on the World ahead of the 50th anniversary of its April 1976 opening.
14 Common Mistakes You’re Making When Pairing Food And Wine (Food Republic) An overview highlighting frequent errors consumers make when matching wines with food, alongside practical rules to create balanced flavor pairings.
Here is a summary of the key stories featured in the Liquor Industry News (09-05-26) Flipboard magazine curated by Mark Lenzi (The Wonderful World of Wine):
đ„ Executive & Market Insights
Brown-Forman CEO: US Whiskey Demise “Exaggerated” (The Spirits Business)
Despite recent market pullbacks and softening sales, the CEO of Brown-Forman (maker of Jack Daniel’s) emphasized that consumer interest in American whiskey remains very high and rumors of the category’s decline are greatly overstated.
đŠ Releases & Industry Updates
Booze News Weekly Roundup (VinePair)
Four Roses Limited Edition: Four Roses announced its annual 2026 Small Batch Limited Edition release.
PBR Beer Heist Escalates: Updates on a high-profile Pabst Blue Ribbon theft investigation that continues to gain attention.
đč Cocktails, Seasonal Drinks & Recipes
Beer Cocktails for Labor Day Weekend (USA Today 10Best)
Drink experts recommend three beer-based cocktails to elevate end-of-summer barbecues and holiday gatherings.
“Pool Wine Season” Continues Into September (Southern Living)
A guide to light, crisp, and refreshing warm-weather wines that carry through early autumn.
Here is a summary of the news stories featured in the Liquor Industry News (09-01-26) collection curated by Mark Lenzi (The Wonderful World of Wine):
1. When to Send Back the Last Glass of Wine
Source: Food & Wine (by Kelly Magyarics)
Summary: The last glass poured from an open bottle sold by-the-glass at a restaurant or bar should taste as fresh as the first, but oxidized or stale wine is a common issue. This article breaks down how to identify when a lingering bottle has spoiled and offers practical advice on how to politely send it back to get a fresh pour.
2. Early Harvest & Industry Challenges in Lodi
Source: CBS News (by Carmela Karcher)
Summary: Grape growers in Lodi, California, report an unprecedented harvest season starting weeks ahead of schedule, with some picking beginning as early as late July. The early harvest comes as the broader wine industry continues to navigate economic and climate-related pressures.
3. Redesigning Wine Tech Sheets at Tablas Creek
Source: Tablas Creek Blog (by Ian Consoli / Samantha Naylor)
Summary: A reflective piece by a marketing intern at Tablas Creek Vineyard exploring how the winery re-imagined and modernized its technical spec sheets to better communicate wine details to consumers, distributors, and trade professionals.
4. Bourbon Cocktails Showcase
Source: Food & Wine
Summary: A roundup featuring 29 bourbon cocktail recipes, highlighting versatile drink preparations ranging from ice-cold mint juleps for warm weather to hot toddies and warm cocktails.
Here is a summary of the featured stories in the Liquor Industry News (08-31-26) collection curated by Mark Lenzi (The Wonderful World of Wine):
1. Podcast & Special Features
The Wonderful World of Wine (Episode 323): Destination Weddings, Wine, and the Language of Italy with Jennifer Martin Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi explore the intersection of destination weddings, Italian wine selection, and navigating Italian culture and language.
2. Spirits & Whiskey Industry News
Grain Profiles in Whiskey Making (Substack – The Spirits Journal) An in-depth look at Cereal Choices: How Grain Type Shapes Whisk(e)y, detailing how grain chemistry (barley, corn, and rye) and processing directly influence final flavor profiles beyond acting as raw starch sources.
Angelâs Envy Cask Experiment Review (Robb Report) A taste-test review of Angelâs Envyâs latest releaseâa bourbon finished in both stout and Amburana casksâdescribing the experimental blend as a misfire that results in a very unusual flavor profile.
Top-Selling Bourbon Retains Market Lead (Mashed) A feature analyzing the brand strategy and long-term consistency of the world’s best-selling bourbon brand and how it maintains its dominant global position year after year.
Here is a summary of the featured stories in Mark Lenzi’s Liquor Industry News 08-28-26 magazine collection on Flipboard:
Key Stories & Headlines
Sangria vs. Tinto de Verano: Which to Sip? (bullagastrobar.com) Compares two iconic Spanish summer wine drinks, exploring the differences between fruit-infused Sangria and the simpler, refreshing combination of red wine and carbonated soda (Tinto de Verano).
“Tasting Enough Wines” Will Not Make One an Expert, Research Shows (thedrinksbusiness.com) Highlights a new intelligence study debunking the common assumption that volume drinking or simply tasting a vast number of wines makes someone a wine connoisseur.
Redwood Empire Unveils “The Hyperion” Limited-Edition Blend (thespiritsbusiness.com) Details California-based Redwood Empire’s latest limited release: a unique, one-off blend featuring four distinct whiskey styles, including the brand’s own single malt.
Wine and Health: Dr. Laura Catena on the Science Behind Moderate Drinking (falstaff.com) Features insight from physician and vintner Dr. Laura Catena examining the scientific perspective and physiological research around moderate wine consumption.
Here is a summary of the featured stories in the Liquor Industry News (August 27, 2026) magazine curated by Mark Lenzi (The Wonderful World of Wine):
Key Stories & Headlines
Changing Palates (World of Fine Wine)
Summary: Renowned wine writer Terry Theise, alongside a panel of distinguished wine writers, explores how taste in wine evolves over a person’s lifetime as they grow older.
Alcohol at the Supreme Court (SCOTUSblog)
Summary: Kelsey Dallas reviews Supreme Court discussions regarding alcohol law precedents, examining how the justices referenced the Founding Fathers’ drinking habits while considering legal frameworks around substance regulations.
Rally Dog Vodka Ade Launch (Boston Beer Co.)
Summary: Boston Beer Company announced Rally Dogâą Vodka Ade, the latest RTD (ready-to-drink) canned cocktail from its innovation incubator, tapping into the rapidly growing vodka-ade category.
Flavor Trends: From “Swicy” to “Newstalgia” (Craft Beer & Brewing)
Summary: Author Randy Mosher breaks down emerging flavor profiles for brewers and beverage makers to consider, covering trends such as “swicy” (sweet + spicy) combinations and nostalgic flavor spins (“newstalgia”).
Here is a summary of the key stories featured in the Liquor Industry News (08-26-26) collection curated by The Wonderful World of Wine:
Health & Wine: We Asked Cardiologists: Is Red Wine Still Good For Your Heart? (Delish) Cardiologists clarify that while moderate alcohol consumption can fit into an overall balanced lifestyle, red wine should not be relied upon or treated as heart medicine.
Product Innovation & RTDs: BuzzBallz Turns Pop-Tarts into RTDs (The Spirits Business) Sazerac-owned ready-to-drink (RTD) brand BuzzBallz has partnered with Pop-Tarts to release two limited-edition toaster-pastry-flavored cocktail drinks.
Consumer Trends: The Most Sought-After Beers in Each US State (The Drinks Business) A new data-driven map ranks the most popular and sought-after beer brands across every U.S. state, highlighting regional sales shifts and emerging craft trends.
Wine Region Spotlight: Check Out My Gravel Pit: Why The Rocks is on the Ascent (The Drinks Business) An exploration of “The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater” wine region, detailing how its unique rocky, gravelly terroir is driving high ratings and growing acclaim for its Syrah and other varietals.
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 326 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Drink, Eat And Do With Monique Soltani In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down with broadcast journalist, media personality, and wine expert Monique Soltani. As the […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 325 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Adapting, Judging, and Unlearning Wine with Joe Roberts In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down for an engaging conversation with Joe Roberts, the creative force behind […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 324 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Inside the Mind of a Master Sommelier with Michael Meagher What does it actually take to reach the absolute pinnacle of the wine world? In this powerhouse episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 323 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Destination Weddings, Wine, and the Language of Italy With Jennifer Martin Get ready for an enchanting journey through the heart of Italy! In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and […]
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 đ· 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! Crushinâ 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 Bostonâs […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 320 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Unveiling Perfection: Napaâs 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, Massachusettsâ 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 arenât 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 đ· 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 […]
