The following liquor industry news stories were featured on Mark Lenzi’s “Liquor Industry News” for January 30, 2026:
2026 Grammys Cocktail Menu: Patrón, the official tequila partner of the Grammys, has unveiled its cocktail menu for the upcoming event on February 1. The lineup is described as “award-worthy” and showcases high-end mixology.
Wine Pricing Controversy: A recent headline from The Drinks Business claiming that the average price of a bottle of U.S. wine reached $56.78 in 2025 has been challenged. Industry experts suggest this figure is inaccurate and likely based on flawed data or specific high-end segments rather than the broader market.
Taylor Swift-Inspired Wine Marketing: A look at how wine brands can adopt “Swiftie” marketing tactics—being subtle, relevant, and building deep community connections—to reach modern consumers.
Sustainability in Spirits: An exploration of what “sustainability” actually means for spirits brands in 2026, highlighting a shift from nebulous buzzwords to concrete commitments in production and packaging.
Pinot Grigio Reclassification: New, tighter rules have been implemented for the Pinot Grigio Delle Venezie DOC. Any Italian producers wishing to reclassify their wines under this designation must now commit to the move via a formal annual process.
Top Whiskeys Under $50: Whiskey experts provided a curated list of the best “bang-for-your-buck” bottles, aiming to help consumers find high quality in the mid-range price bracket.
The following stories and articles were featured in the Liquor Industry News 01-27-26 collection:
Industry & Market Trends
California Grape Shortage: The 2025 California grape harvest is projected to be the lowest in nearly 50 years. Production is expected to be down 24% compared to last year’s crop, creating significant concern for the U.S. wine industry.
Wine vs. Books Market Comparison: An article by Tom Wark discusses the transparency of the wine market, arguing that until wine is sold with the same retail accessibility and structure as books, consumers will continue to deal with the complexities and “deceit” of middlemen.
Wine & Health
Healthiest Wine Options: Nutrition experts identified five types of wine considered the “healthiest.” While noting that alcohol should be consumed in moderation, the article highlights specific RD-approved options for those looking to raise a glass.
Spirits & Champagne
Jack Daniel’s Trivia: A feature on the iconic whiskey brand reveals 10 lesser-known facts about Jack Daniel’s, exploring its history and the story behind its signature square bottle.
Champagne in Cinema: A look at how Champagne is used as a symbol of joy, wealth, and love in iconic film scenes, such as Marilyn Monroe’s famous pairing of bubbly and potato chips in The Seven Year Itch.
Science & Research
Wine-Tasting Rats: In a unique study, researchers found that rats have the biological ability to differentiate between different varieties of white wine, shedding light on the complexities of olfactory and taste perception.
January 26, 2026, the liquor industry news roundup curated by Mark Lenzi includes the following stories:
Santa Barbara’s New Wine Experience: The Hilt Estate has launched “The Hideaway Experience” at The Barn in Santa Ynez, which is being described as a premier destination for wine tasting in the region.
Brewery Etiquette: A guide on brewery “faux pas” highlights common behaviors—such as indecisiveness at the tap—that cause frustration for staff and other patrons.
Old Fashioned Alternatives: For fans of the classic Old Fashioned, a new feature recommends various cocktail “riffs” and similar drinks to try next.
Non-Alcoholic Beer Rankings: An updated list evaluates the non-alcoholic beer market, identifying 15 brands worth buying and 10 that consumers should avoid.
Weekly Industry Roundup: Mark Lenzi (CSW, CSS, FWS) provides his “Liquor Industry Week In Review,” covering broader trends and insights across the wine and spirits sector.
The following is a summary of the liquor industry news and stories featured for January 25, 2026, as curated by Mark Lenzi on Flipboard:
Wine & Spirits Highlights
Puglia’s Rising Star: A spotlight on Susumaniello, an indigenous grape variety from Puglia that has recently moved from the shadows to gain significant recognition and popularity.
Expert Cocktail Recommendations: A guide to the 14 best Campari cocktails beyond the classic Negroni and Boulevardier, exploring the 150-year history of the bitter liqueur.
RTD Beverage Rankings: An evaluation of 18 low-sugar canned cocktails and malt beverages, noting how the industry has evolved far beyond the original dominance of brands like White Claw and Truly.
Travel & Bars
Napa Valley Insider Tips: A list of 7 under-the-radar Napa wineries that locals prefer for high-quality wine without the “tourist scene.”
Industry Secrets: An exposé on illegal “shady” bartender moves, discussing the fine line between standard bar practices and legal violations in the service industry.
Mixers & Non-Alcoholic
Sparkling Drink Rankings: A ranking of 12 San Pellegrino sparkling drinks, celebrating the brand’s 125-year history in the naturally sourced mineral water market.
Based on the “Liquor Industry News 01-23-26” Flipboard magazine curated by Mark Lenzi, here are the summaries of the featured stories and articles published for that date:
Genetic Study on Alcohol and Cancer Risk: A major genetic analysis reported no overall association between alcohol consumption and total cancer risk. The study offers a more nuanced perspective on the link between drinking and health than previous reports, though it notes specific nuances depending on the individual.
Guide to Champagne Labeling: An introductory guide for wine enthusiasts explains the complexities of Champagne wine labeling. It covers the specific requirements for wines produced in the Champagne region of France, including how to read terms on the bottle to understand quality and origin.
Italian Wines for the 2026 Winter Olympics: To celebrate the upcoming Olympic Winter Games in Italy, experts highlighted six special Italian wines. These selections are intended to toast the games while showcasing the rich food and wine culture of the host regions.
The Importance of Cocktail Garnishes: An article exploring why garnishes are essential for the perfect Manhattan cocktail. It explains that the right garnish does more than just look aesthetically pleasing; it can significantly enhance or alter the flavor profile of the drink.
Defining “Indigenous” Grapes: A look into the difficulty of classifying grapes as indigenous. While searching for unique and distinctive grape varieties is currently fashionable in the industry, the article notes that defining what is truly “native” to a region is highly problematic and complex.
Expert Recommendations for Bargain Wines: Sixteen wine professionals shared their go-to bargain wine picks for 2026. The article addresses the rising cost of wine due to inflation and tariffs, providing readers with high-quality, affordable alternatives available at local bottle shops.
Based on the “Liquor Industry News 01-22-26” Flipboard magazine provided, here are the summaries for the stories and articles posted today, January 22, 2026:
Your Sangria Will Lack Its Punch Unless You Follow This One Step (Tasting Table) This article highlights a critical step in making authentic Spanish sangria. It emphasizes that the drink’s quality often relies on the specific preparation technique (maceration) to ensure the flavors of the fruit and wine meld correctly for maximum impact.
The Best Whiskies Over $200 That Are Actually Worth Splurging On (Man of Many) Author Christopher Osburn explores the luxury side of the spirits market. While many affordable bourbons and Scotches exist, this piece identifies high-end bottles that justify their $200+ price tag through exceptional aging, rarity, and flavor profiles.
A Different Way of Seeing the Burgundy Region? From the Water (Vogue) This travel and lifestyle piece features legendary Chef Dominique Crenn and her experiences in Burgundy. It suggests that the best way to experience the famous wine region is via barge on the River Saône, offering a unique perspective on the vineyards and local culture.
Based on the “Liquor Industry News 01-21-26” Flipboard magazine curated by Mark Lenzi, here is a summary of the articles posted for today, January 21, 2026:
Industry News & Trends
Champagne Sales Decline: For the third consecutive year, Champagne shipments have dropped. In 2025, shipments fell by 2% to 266 million bottles, signaling a continuing wane in global demand for the French bubbly.
The Rise of “TikTok-tails”: Social media continues to drive beverage trends. A featured list highlights 18 trending cocktail recipes from TikTok, ranging from frozen concoctions to coffee-infused drinks.
Wine Guides & Recommendations
The Case for Sweet Red Wines: Often dismissed by connoisseurs, balanced sweet red wines are being championed for their versatility. They are particularly noted for being excellent pairings for spicy, bold, and otherwise difficult-to-match dishes.
Italian Restaurant Wine Tips: A guide for diners suggests specific wine types to look for on an Italian restaurant menu to ensure a high-quality pairing with classic dishes like pasta or veal Milanese.
Petrus Alternatives: For those who cannot afford Petrus—one of the world’s most expensive Bordeaux wines—a list of seven alternative selections from the prestigious French region offers similar profiles at more accessible price points.
Product Reviews
Bloody Mary Mix Taste-Test: Bon Appétit conducted a review of 11 different Bloody Mary mixes. The results highlight a range of flavors, from dill-forward profiles to those with high-heat horseradish, to help consumers find the best brunch-worthy options.
The following stories were featured in the “LIQUOR INDUSTRY NEWS 01-20-26” collection on Flipboard, published on January 20, 2026:
Episode 307-Wine Social Media Star Kelly Axelrad: A podcast episode from The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) featuring hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi. They interview social media star Kelly Axelrad to explore current trends and insights in the wine world.
Prosecco DOC Growth in the U.S.: A report from PR Newswire highlighting that Prosecco DOC production reached 667 million bottles in 2025. President Guidolin noted that the denomination maintains steady growth and leadership in the U.S. market despite global economic pressures.
Best Wine Pairings for Pasta Sauce: An article from Tasting Table by Lucia Capretti providing a guide on how to pair various wines with ten popular types of pasta sauces for the best culinary experience.
10 Tips for Making the Best Martini: A feature from Chowhound by Allyson Morgan offering professional tips and techniques for crafting the perfect classic martini, referencing its cultural status in media like James Bond and Mad Men.
Based on the Flipboard link provided, here are the summaries for the articles and stories posted today, January 16, 2026:
Exploring New Applications of Toasted Chestnut Shells as an Oak Alternative in Distilled Spirit Aging(Nature.com) This scientific study investigates the use of toasted chestnut shells as a sustainable alternative to traditional oak for aging distilled spirits. It reviews recent developments in chestnut quality and how these shells can influence the flavor profile of aged liquors.
Doctors Reveal What ‘Reasonable’ Drinking Looks Like — and Who Should Avoid Alcohol (Fox News) As many adults resolve to drink less in 2026, health experts are defining the parameters of “reasonable” consumption. The article highlights that healthy boundaries are unique to each individual’s history and lifestyle, while identifying specific groups who should abstain entirely.
10 Gins To Try If You Like Bombay Sapphire (Tasting Table) A guide for fans of the popular London Dry gin. It suggests ten alternative gins that share similar delicate botanical profiles and high-quality sourcing, perfect for those looking to expand their palate within the gin category.
How to Make a Paper Lantern, a Great Japanese Whisky Cocktail (The Manual) This story features a seasonal cocktail recipe called the “Paper Lantern.” The drink utilizes Japanese whisky, apricot, and amaro, showcasing how mixologists are incorporating seasonal ingredients into winter menus.
Myths of Wine and Food Matching (Substack – Randy Caparoso) This piece explores common misconceptions regarding food and wine pairings. It discusses whether the industry focuses too much on pairing rules and emphasizes that while pairings are meaningful, they should not be overly complicated.
The following is a summary of the articles featured in the “LIQUOR INDUSTRY NEWS 01-14-26” collection on Flipboard:
New U.S. Dietary Guidelines and Alcohol: The Trump administration released new dietary guidelines that emphasize “real food” over highly processed products. However, the guidelines remain vague regarding alcohol consumption, leaving many to wonder about the specific health implications and recommended limits.
The Rise of Oregon Chardonnay: While Oregon is long-established as a benchmark for Pinot Noir, the region’s Chardonnay is now “stepping into the sun.” It is increasingly being recognized for producing some of the best expressions of the varietal in the world.
Pennsylvania Rare Whiskey Lottery: The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board has opened a lottery for rare and limited-edition whiskeys. Residents have a specific window to enter for a chance to purchase these highly sought-after bottles.
Wyoming Whiskey’s Latest Release: A feature on Wyoming Whiskey highlights their latest special bourbon. The article focuses on the brand’s commitment to local craftsmanship, from the specific grains used to the barreling process.
Enhancing Classics with “Bubbly Booze”: This piece explores how adding sparkling elements or specific “bubbly” spirits can elevate classic cocktails, transforming standard drinks into more “exalted” versions.
Why Wine Tastes Better at Restaurants: This article explains the psychological and environmental reasons why a bottle of wine often tastes superior in a restaurant setting compared to at home, and provides tips on how to recreate that “magic” in a domestic environment.
This link leads to a Flipboard magazine titled “LIQUOR INDUSTRY NEWS 01-13-25,” curated by Mark Lenzi.
Lenzi is a recognized wine and spirits expert (owner of Franklin Liquors in Massachusetts and host of The Wonderful World of Wine podcast). He uses these Flipboard collections to aggregate the most important daily and weekly news for industry professionals and enthusiasts.
While the specific articles within the January 13, 2025 edition change as he adds new content, this specific roundup typically focuses on:
Market Trends: Analysis of how consumer habits (like the shift toward “better-for-you” drinks or the influence of Gen Z) are affecting sales.
Spirit & Wine News: Significant updates from major regions (like Bourbon production in Kentucky or harvest reports from Europe).
Regulatory Updates: News on tariffs, state-specific liquor laws (often including Massachusetts-specific news), and shipping regulations.
Sustainability: Coverage of eco-friendly packaging and biodynamic farming in the wine industry.
Educational Content: Links to his latest podcast episodes and “deep dives” into specific categories like sparkling wine or whiskey aging.
The following liquor industry news stories were posted on January 12, 2026:
Where To Buy An Empty Bourbon Or Whiskey Barrel: This story explores the world of “coopers”—specialist artisans who create whiskey barrels—and provides guidance for enthusiasts looking to purchase used barrels for personal projects or decor.
What Happens to Opened Wine: A report on how oxygen affects wine once a bottle is opened. It explains that while old wine typically won’t make you sick, oxidation strips the “brightness” and flavor, making it taste different than intended.
The 23 Best Rye Whiskey Cocktails: A comprehensive guide for home bartenders featuring essential recipes and deep dives into the versatility of rye whiskey in mixology.
Why a Popular ’70s Beer is Now Only in Canada: This piece looks at a specific cult-classic beer brand from the 1970s (famously associated with pop culture icons like Kurt Cobain) that has disappeared from U.S. shelves but remains available in the Canadian market.
Espresso Martini Popularity: A look at the “buzzy modern classic” that remains one of the most-ordered cocktails globally, detailing its standard ingredients: vodka, coffee liqueur, fresh espresso, and simple syrup.
Weekly Liquor Industry Highlights: A review of the first week of January 2026 by Mark C. Lenzi, covering broad trends and news across the wine and spirits sectors.
The Flipboard link provided, here are the stories curated by Mark Lenzi for January 11, 2026:
Why NA drinks, ‘mocktails’ can be tricky for those of us in recovery (via Yahoo/Nashville Tennessean) – An exploration of the psychological and social complexities of non-alcoholic beverages for individuals in recovery.
Reach For This Pantry Staple For A More Decadent Martini (via Tasting Table) – A tip on using a common pantry item to enhance and add decadence to the classic Martini.
Declining wine consumption in EU forecast to continue (via Just Drinks) – A report on the 10-year outlook for European wine consumption, which is expected to fall due to changing consumer habits.
Which celebrity wines to buy and avoid – from Kylie to Snoop Dogg (via The Telegraph) – A guide to celebrity-backed wine brands, including news on a recent non-alcoholic launch by Sir Elton John.
10 Best Wineries in Victoria, According to a Sommelier (via Man of Many) – A curated list of top-tier wineries in Victoria, Australia, for enthusiasts looking to improve their cellar.
Wine 101: How to speak the language of the vines like a pro (via Lifestyle Asia) – A sommelier’s guide to understanding wine terminology and navigating complex wine lists.
This collection was curated under Mark Lenzi’s magazine, The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW).
Here is a summary of the stories from the January 9, 2026, edition of “Liquor Industry News” by Mark Lenzi:
US Health Department Removes Daily Alcohol Limits: In a major shift, the US Department of Health’s new five-year dietary guidance report has dropped the long-standing recommendation that Americans limit alcohol consumption to two drinks per day.
Elton John Launches Non-Alcoholic Wine: Music legend Elton John has entered the drinks market with the launch of his own 0% alcohol “blanc de blancs,” targeting the growing non-alcoholic beverage sector.
Irish Whiskey Exports Decline: Exports of Irish whiskey saw a 5% drop in value over the past year. Analysts point to a slowdown in the US market as the primary reason for the hindered performance.
Growth Projected for Mexico’s Whisky Market: A new study by IMARC Group predicts significant growth for the whisky market in Mexico, projecting it will rise from $905.2 million in 2025 to $1.47 billion by 2034.
Red vs. White Wine Health Debate: A feature from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health explores the nutritional differences between red and white wine, examining whether red wine’s long-held reputation as the “healthier” choice still stands up to current research.
Based on the “LIQUOR INDUSTRY NEWS 01-08-26” collection curated by Mark Lenzi, here are the key stories for January 8, 2026:
Wine Shipping Legal Battle: A significant case regarding wine retailer shipping might return to the US Supreme Court this year. Plaintiffs in an Arizona case have appealed an unusual ruling, potentially impacting how wine is shipped across state lines.
The “Taylor Swift Effect” on Wine: Sales for Sancerre (a Loire Valley white wine) have spiked in the US, leading to sell-outs after fans spotted a bottle in the pop star’s latest documentary.
Wine Education Trends: An editorial piece argues for the importance of moving wine education “away from the screen” and back to in-person, experiential learning to better engage students and enthusiasts.
Non-Alcoholic Wine Outlook: Industry experts have released a list of the “12 Best Non-Alcoholic Wines for 2026,” highlighting the continued growth and innovation in the booze-free movement.
Rising Popularity of Sake: As Asian-American bars gain popularity in the US, sake is seeing a corresponding surge. The US has become a primary market for Japanese sake producers in the first half of 2025/2026.
High-End Bourbon Highlights: Texas-based Garrison Brothers is making headlines with their “2025 Cowboy Bourbon” and “Sonora” releases, being cited as some of the best bourbon produced outside of Kentucky.
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 312 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi explore 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 explore 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 explore 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 explore 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 explore 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 […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 307 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi explore all things wine with you! Wine Social Media Star Kelly Axelrad Dive into a fascinating episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) as hosts Kim and Mark sit down with the powerhouse wine entrepreneur and social media superstar, Kelly […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 306 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi explore all things wine with you! A Spirited Sip with a Wine Maverick Raymond Blake Join hosts Kim and Mark on as they uncork a fantastic conversation with acclaimed Irish wine author, Raymond Blake. In this spirited episode, Raymond takes us […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 305 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi explore all things wine with you! All Things Bubbly For New Years Bubbly Bonanza! 🍾 Join your hosts, the effervescent Kim, the Bubbly Queen, and Mark, for the last show of 2025, where they pop the cork on a year of […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 304 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi explore all things wine with you! Holiday/Christmas Songs Paired With Wine Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas! Get ready to deck the halls and pour the wine with hosts Kim and Mark in this festive holiday special of The Wonderful World of […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 303 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi explore all things wine with you! Charlie Brown Thanksgiving Get ready for a Thanksgiving episode that's anything but ordinary! The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) hosts Kim and Mark are celebrating a classic: A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving! Ever wondered what wine […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 302 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi explore all things wine with you! The Umami King Tim Hanni MW Join hosts Kim and Mark as they welcome a true icon of the wine world: Master of Wine (MW)Tim Hanni. Tim, the first American to earn the prestigious MW […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 301 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi explore all things wine with you! Kiana Keys-The Unpolished Grape On this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine(WWW), Kim and Mark sit down with Kiana Keys, author of Unpolished Grape 101-The Basics of WineAnd Little Black Book of Food + […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 300 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi explore all things wine with you! Celebrating Our 300th Episode With Len Presutti A lot can happen in 300 episodes. Kim and Mark, the hosts of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), celebrate this incredible milestone with their good friend and […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 299 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi explore all things wine with you! Vino Therapy With Kelly Lewis Kim and Mark of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) welcome the visionary Kelly Lewis to the show to uncork the secrets of vino therapy. The founder of the first-ever […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 298 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi explore all things wine with you! Wine Illustration talk with Maryse Chevriere Join The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) hosts Kim and Mark for a conversation with Maryse Chevriere. A certified sommelier, acclaimed illustrator, author, and James Beard award winner, Maryse […]
