New Beer, Wine And Liquor Products
08-28-26
Posts Tagged ‘Liquor Industry News’
New Products This Week-Franklin Liquors New Beer, Wine, Liquor
August 28, 2026Liquor Industry News 08-28-26 The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)
August 28, 2026Exploring all things wine with you!
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.
Liquor Industry News 08-27-26 The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)
August 27, 2026Exploring all things wine with you!
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 Dog™ 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”).
Liquor Industry News 08-26-26 The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)
August 26, 2026Exploring all things wine with you!
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.
Liquor Industry News 08-25-26 The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)
August 25, 2026Exploring all things wine with you!
Here is a summary of the featured stories in the Liquor Industry News (August 25, 2026) magazine curated by Mark Lenzi on Flipboard:
Key Stories & Highlights
1. Unlikely Brand Partnerships: Wine Meets Fast Food & Sports
- Source: Substack (Robert Joseph)
- Summary: Industry commentator Robert Joseph explores unconventional strategic partnerships in the beverage world. Highlighting collaborations like La Vieille Ferme pairing with KFC and Gusbourne partnering with major football clubs, the article examines how wine brands are attempting to break traditional upscale stereotypes to reach mainstream, mass-market audiences.
2. Modernizing the Restaurant Wine List
- Source: SevenFifty Daily (Caitlin A. Miller)
- Summary: Taking inspiration from venues like New York City’s Bibliothèque (a wine bar and bookstore), this piece explores the evolving design and philosophy behind modern wine menus. Great wine lists are moving away from intimidating, clinical catalogues toward narrative-driven, approachable, and engaging experiences for diners.
3. “Come Over October” Campaign & Social Connection
- Source: Wine Industry Advisor (Press Release)
- Summary: Survey findings from the Come Over October™ initiative reveal a significant opportunity for the wine sector. The campaign emphasizes positioning wine not just as a beverage choice, but as a central medium for social gathering, community, and in-person connection.
4. Angel’s Envy Launching Experimental Bourbon Release
- Source: Food & Wine
- Summary: Premium Kentucky distillery Angel’s Envy announced one of its most experimental bourbon expressions to date, continuing its trend of innovative barrel finishing and unique mash bill experimentation.
Liquor Industry News 08-24-26 The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)
August 24, 2026Exploring all things wine with you!
Here is a summary of the main stories featured in Mark Lenzi’s Liquor Industry News (08-24-26) collection on Flipboard:
1. Welcome to the World, Asti Rosato!
- Source: Wine, Wit, and Wisdom (Society of Wine Educators)
- Summary: The European Union has approved a new style of pink sparkling wine within Italy’s established Asti DOCG classification: Asti Rosato. The regulation allows for two key styles:
- Asti Rosato / Asti Spumante Rosato: Produced via second fermentation in bulk tanks/autoclaves (Charmat/Martinotti method) with a minimum 1-month production/aging process.
- Asti Metodo Classico Rosato: Produced via traditional bottle fermentation (aged on lees for at least 9 months) using 70%–90% Moscato Bianco blended with 10%–30% Brachetto.
2. What Makes Vermentino So Special?
- Source: Substack – The Wine Classroom (Paul Vigna)
- Summary: While Vermentino is traditionally associated with Mediterranean regions like Sardinia and Tuscany, East Coast winemakers are increasingly championing the white grape variety. Industry insiders and growers highlight its adaptability, natural acidity, and ability to thrive in warm coastal and mid-Atlantic climates while delivering crisp, fruit-forward flavor profiles.
3. The Tequila Hangover Myth You Can Stop Believing
- Source: Tasting Table (Claudia Alarcón)
- Summary: Industry experts debunk the long-standing myth that tequila inherently causes worse hangovers than other spirits. Severe hangovers associated with tequila typically stem from consuming cheap, mass-produced mixto tequilas loaded with added sugars, artificial flavorings, and colorings. Distillers and bartenders advise looking for 100% agave, additive-free tequilas meant for sipping rather than shooting to avoid morning-after ill effects.
Liquor Industry News 08-24-26
August 24, 2026
Liquor Industry News
The Wonderful World Of Wine (WWW)
By: Mark C Lenzi
CSW, CSS, CWAS, FWS, IWS*, SWS, OWE, IWM*
08-24-2026
Liquor Industry News
New Products
How RTDs are winning over bars
How heatwaves affect what we drink
Tales of Kosher Alcohol
Why You’ll Never Find Norway’s Best-Selling Beer On American Shelves
As beer fans in the United States may already know, there are quite a few countries in the world that also have strong beer cultures. Germany, the Czech Republic, England, Ireland, Mexico, and Japan are a few staples that come to mind, but one nation you might not think of is Norway.
https://www.tastingtable.com/2224153/norway-best-selling-beer-unavaliable-america
The World’s Best-Selling Vodka Isn’t Grey Goose Or Ketel One — It’s Cheaper
The (arguably) tasteless spirit may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but there’s no denying that vodka reigns supreme worldwide.
https://www.tastingtable.com/2222773/best-selling-vodka-world-not-grey-goose-ketel-one-smirnoff
How heatwaves affect what we drink
As another heatwave begins in Europe, you might think all this dry, sunny weather would benefit drinks sales. We consider if that’s true, as well as the impact on wine, and which styles stand to benefit.
https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2026/08/how-heatwaves-affect-what-we-drink
America hits major marijuana milestone as daily weed use surpasses daily drinking
Survey finds 21.4 million Americans now use cannabis daily or near-daily, up 21% since 2022
Tales of Kosher Alcohol
I’m sure many of you have heard of kosher food and many rules associated with it, in purchasing the ingredients, cooking, and consuming (don’t mix meat and dairy, for example). But wine is wine, right?
On Declining Per Capita Wine Consumption: Are We Reliving 1986 or 1993?
Is it just the beginning or the beginning of the end? Or something else?
https://tomwark.substack.com/p/on-declining-per-capita-wine-consumption
Is wine good for you? Here’s what the evidence says
Between WHO warnings and NHS guidelines lies a complex truth about wine, health and why humans have never stopped drinking it. Gabriel Stone considers the effect of booze on your body
https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2026/08/is-wine-good-for-you-heres-what-the-evidence-says
Global alcohol deaths drop by 26%
According to a new report, the alcohol-attributable mortality rate has fallen by more than a quarter since 2010
10 Lime Beers, Ranked Worst To Best
Most beer drinkers have shoved a small lime slice through the narrow neck of a clear-bottled Corona — it’s practically a rite of passage once you’re legally old enough to drink. The Corona and lime pairing is such a staple nowadays that other brewers are starting to incorporate lime into their ales.
https://www.tastingtable.com/2226890/lime-beer-ranked-worst-best
Sarah Jessica Parker and Invivo Winemakers Just Bottled the Internet’s Spiciest Wine Trend
Invivo X, SJP launches the first major-label Sauvignon Blanc infused with jalapeño – turning the TikTok phenomenon into a bottle you can pick up off the shelf & find on select restaurant menus this summer
Next Century Spirits buys Chicken Cock Whiskey
North Carolina-based Next Century Spirits has acquired four brands from Grain & Barrel Spirits, including Chicken Cock Whiskey and its two Kentucky visitor experiences.
Find out the trends attracting Gen Z consumers to drink
The main consumer choices and behaviours influencing alcohol consumption among legal-drinking-age adults have been uncovered in a new white paper. But what are they? db finds out.
https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2026/08/find-out-the-trends-attracting-gen-z-consumers-to-drink
The 30 Best Gins for 2026
Should you trust your eyes or the statistics when it comes to gin these days?
https://vinepair.com/buy-this-booze/best-gins-2026
NEW RTD
- Minute Maid Spiked, part of Coca-Cola’s Red Tree Beverages, has launched Vodka Lemonade Iced Tea. The 5% abv drink is non-carbonated and made with iced tea and 3% lemon juice. It joins the brand’s other vodka-based offerings—Lemona de, Pink Lemonade, and four flavors of Vodka Punch—plus wine-based cocktails like Margarita and Daiquiri, among others, in the brand’s portfolio. The new release is available in 8-packs of 12-ounce cans ($17) and in individual 16-ounce cans ($3.49). Both formats are available nationwide. Last year, Minute Maid’s spirits-based RTDs reached 100,000 cases in the U.S. in their first year on the market, according to Impact Databank.
These Are the Only 5 Beers to Win 3 Stars at the 2026 Great Taste Awards
More than 15,000 food and drink products competed, but only five beers earned the competition’s highest honor.
https://www.foodandwine.com/best-beers-great-taste-awards-2026-12033143
Idaho Makes Great Wine, and This Producer Is Leading the Charge
3100 Cellars is the only dedicated sparkling wine house in the Gem State, where vinous treasures abound.
https://www.foodandwine.com/idaho-sparkling-wine-12033554
The world’s best-selling spirit brand is not a Scottish whisky, a Russian vodka or a Cuban rum
The title belongs to South Korea, where Jinro soju shifted 94.5 million cases last year and has held first place for 25 straight years.
Are campers a massive untapped market for drinks?
As summer holidaymakers toast marshmallows over campfires, Sarah Neish asks marketing experts whether campers are a smoking hot demographic, and why this consumer segment is left out in the cold by many drinks brands.
Your Wine Habit Could Be Doing Public Good
Recycled wine corks find new life in Brooklyn public housing with sustainable cork pathways, playgrounds and community spaces
https://www.winespectator.com/articles/recycled-wine-corks-helping-communities
How To Order Wine Like An Expert
Whether ordering a bottle to share with friends at a bar or choosing something to pair with dinner, selecting wine can be daunting.
https://www.mashed.com/2227909/how-to-order-wine-like-an-expert
How a More Casual Drinker Gets the Most Out of the Fancy Coravin Wine Preserver
It’s keeping my bubbly, well, bubbly, so I can enjoy a summer’s worth of sparkling cocktails at my own pace.
https://www.bonappetit.com/story/coravin-sparkling-spritzes
Exploring eight EU wine regions set to win over drinkers
The EU is at the heart of the international wine trade, with its position built on quality assurance and regulation. A recent masterclass explored how that is driving innovation in its emerging regions.
Cutwater is fastest-growing alcohol brand in US
AB InBev’s canned cocktail Cutwater has become the fastest-growing brand in the US alcohol industry after rising by 104% over the past 12 months.
Slovenian Winemakers Face Threat of Not Being Allowed to Sell Wine
Here’s the full details, plus how you can help
https://themorningclaret.com/p/slovenian-winemakers-face-threat-of-not-being-allowed-to-sell-wine
Mexico Became the World’s Largest Beer Exporter in 2025
Among the five main destinations for the Mexican beverage are the United States, with US$6.046 billion; the Dominican Republic, with US$49 million; Spain, with US$39 million; Peru, with US$37 million; and Panama, with US$32 million, as of the close of 2025.
How weight-loss medication is changing relationships with alcohol
There is a growing body of research into the link between weight-loss drugs and alcohol consumption.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cr7kmlg0lxpo
Best Champagne for Celebrations
How to Choose
https://winesfromfrance.com/blogs/news/best-champagne-for-celebrations
Burgundy’s Crémant starts its earliest harvest
Burgundy is seeing one of the earliest harvests for Crémant this year, with some producers having already started picking over the weekend
https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2026/08/burgundys-cremant-harvest-start-is-earliest-yet
The Legal Drinking Age Used to Be Different in Every State.
Here’s What America Looked Like Before 1984.
https://vinepair.com/articles/every-state-legal-drinking-age-1984-map
Bota Box Introduces Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon in a 1.5-Liter Box
Renowned vineyards meet sustainable packaging and exceptional value in new Limited Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
https://www.winebusiness.com/news/newreleases/article/321715
China’s Biggest Wine Influencer Lady Penguin Under Investigation
The company behind the six-million-follower wine personality will face trial in Beijing, casting a shadow over a content-commerce empire that once generated RMB 350 million in annual sales.
PourPlays Launches the First Gamified Wine Education Platform
Making Wine Discovery Engaging, Rewarding, and Fun for a New Generation
How RTDs are winning over bars
After conquering supermarket shelves, ready-to-drink brands are making their mark behind the bar. We explore why brands are increasingly being poured in on-trade establishments.
Copper & Kings delivers distillery exclusives
Louisville-based brandy producer Copper & Kings has begun nationwide shipping of its exclusive distillery bottling.
https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2026/08/copper-kings-delivers-distillery-exclusives
The Top 150 Tequila Brands Ranked
Fifteen reviewers scored more than 350 brands. Here are their favorites.
https://www.tequilareport.com/p/the-top-150-tequila-brands-ranked
How wine brands are finding growth in a shrinking market
Global wine consumption has fallen to levels not seen in more than six decades, leaving producers searching for new definitions of growth. From natural wine and Michelin-starred restaurants to China and Champagne, a handful of businesses are showing that expansion remains possible when producers know precisely who they are trying to reach.
Scientists have found out what causes ‘tropical’ aromas in whisky
Researchers at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh have uncovered the source of ‘tropical’ or ‘mango’-like characteristics in whisky, meaning distillers could in future “dial up or tone down” the aromas as desired.
Old Elk unveils 10YO whiskey trio
American whiskey brand Old Elk has released a collection of three 10-year-old expressions as the first major releases under Middle West Spirits’ ownership.
Crown Royal gets snug in Juicy Couture
Diageo’s Crown Royal has collaborated with lifestyle brand Juicy Couture on flavored whisky-inspired bottle bags and matching velour tracksuits.
The (Unhinged) Frozen Pickle Wine Hack, Explained
Once upon a time, the frozen snack hack was simple. You put grapes in the freezer, waited a few hours, and got little marbles of frozen fruit that tasted vaguely like sorbet. It was low-effort, deliciously clever, and completely uncontroversial.
How To Grow Wine Without Herbicides
…Is The Wrong Question
https://beyondorganicwine.substack.com/p/how-to-grow-wine-without-herbicides
What temperature should you serve wine at?
Serving wine at the right temperature can make a significant difference to how it tastes, whether you are opening a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, a mature red or a bottle of Sherry. Gabriel Stone explains when to chill, when to warm and why the old rule of white wine cold and red wine at room temperature does not always work.
https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2026/08/what-temperature-should-you-serve-wine-at
Most popular beers across US regions revealed in new data
New research has revealed the beer brands people are most curious about in different parts of the US that lead to them discovering and then buying certain brews. db looks at the findings.
Jameson Distiller’s Batch lands in US
Irish Distillers-owned Jameson has brought Distiller’s Batch, a single pot still Irish whiskey, to the US.
The Number of Breweries Per Capita in Every State Has Changed Dramatically Since 2010
Here’s What the Shift Looks Like
https://vinepair.com/articles/breweries-per-capita-in-every-state-percent-change
Climate Change & True Terroir
What this summer’s fires tell us about the future in your glass
https://sandraetaylor.substack.com/p/climate-change-and-true-terroir
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Podcast
Listen On Our Facebook Page OR On Franklin Radio 102.9 FM
On Air Wednesday 9:00am, 02:00PM and 7:00PM
And
Saturday at 9:00 am and 01:00PM
Good Pods Top 100 Podcast For Education
Podcast Award Nominations 2019, 21, 22 ,23, 24 AND 2025!!
2025 AND 2026 Tasty Award Winner!
Sign Up For Our Weekly Newsletter
Get updated On Liquor Industry News, Events, Sales And More!
Find Us Online
Like Us On Facebook
www.facebook.com/franklinliquorsMA
Follow Us On X
www.twitter.com/franklinliquors
Our Latest Specials
Liquor
Wine
Beer
Beer Keg Information Page
Upcoming Events
Franklin Wine Club
Wine Explorers wanted!
Over 900 Club Members!
How To attend and join
http://www.meetup.com/Franklin-Wine-Club/
http://www.facebook.com/FranklinwineclubMA
Food And Wine Events
Our TV Show And Facebook Page
Franklin Liquors Wine Education
Certified Specialist Of Wine-CSW
Certified Specialist Of Spirits-CSS
Society Of Wine Educators
California Wine Appellation Specialist-CWAS-San Francisco Wine School (First In MA)
French Wine Scholar FWS-(Instructor) Wine Scholar Guild
Quini Certified Educator- QCE (First In USA)
Italian Wine Specialist-IWS*-North American Sommelier Association
Spanish Wine Scholar SWS-Wine Scholar Guild
Oregon Wine Expert OWE-Napa Valley Wine Academy
Italian Wine Maestro-The Vinitaly International Academy (First Class In USA)
Italian Wine Scholar IWS*-Wine Scholar Guild
SaveSave
Liquor Industry News 08-23-26 The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)
August 23, 2026Exploring all things wine with you!
Here is a summary of the highlighted stories featured in the Liquor Industry News (08-23-26) collection curated by The Wonderful World of Wine:
1. Can Heavy Metal Help Save Wine? This Festival Thinks So
- Source: Food & Wine (by Jesse Koji Fukumoto)
- Summary: The Blood of Gods Annual Merrymaking festival is bringing new energy, unconventional programming, and a metal-head edge to the wine world. Sommelier and author André Hueston Mack kicked off the event’s panel discussions with the bold declaration to “burn it all down,” advocating for breaking traditional wine elite stereotypes to attract younger, new generations of wine drinkers.
2. This Kentucky Liquor Store Might Be The Best-Kept Secret On The Bourbon Trail
- Source: Southern Living (by Melinda Salchert)
- Summary: Highlighting a hidden gem located in Bardstown, Kentucky—the official “Bourbon Capital of the World”—this feature focuses on a local liquor store known for offering insanely affordable pours and rare bourbon finds. It stands out as an unpretentious, must-visit pitstop for enthusiasts touring the Bourbon Trail.
3. How to Make the Best Fall Cocktails
- Source: A Lush Life Manual (by Susan L. Schwartz)
- Summary: A seasonal guide detailing ten classic and signature autumn cocktails designed for cooler weather. The piece highlights how drink choices shift away from summer’s crisp citrus to richer, darker profiles centered around brown spirits, bitters, smoke, maple, and warming spices. Highlighted drinks include the Boulevardier, Rye Manhattan, Sidecar, Kentucky Hot Toddy, and Irish Coffee.
4. 10 Under-The-Radar Spirits From Around The World Worth Seeking Out
- Source: Tasting Table (by Xenia Turner)
- Summary: A global tour of unique, regionally celebrated spirits that go beyond standard bar staples. Featured bottles include:
- Mekhong (Thailand): A spiced, rum-like distilled spirit made from molasses, rice, and local herbs.
- Tsipouro (Greece): A potent pomace brandy deeply rooted in Greek meze culture.
- Other hidden gems mentioned include Sotol (Mexico), Singani (Bolivia), Feni (India), Chacha (Georgia), Poitín (Ireland), and Pálinka (Hungary).
Liquor Industry News 08-22-26 The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)
August 22, 2026Exploring all things wine with you!
Here is a summary of the stories featured in the Liquor Industry News collection on Flipboard:
1. Market Trends & Demographics
- Gallup Poll: U.S. Drinkers Shift Toward Spirits as Beer Declines (The Spirits Business)
- Key Findings: Overall U.S. alcohol consumption remains at a record low of 54%. Among those who do drink, preferences are continuing to shift away from beer and toward spirits.
- Breakdown: Beer leads slightly with 36% of drinkers, while spirits closely follow at 32% (up 12% over the last decade) and wine holds steady at 30%. Spirits are especially popular among younger adults (ages 18–34) and women (37% preference).
- Health Awareness: Over 50% of Americans believe even moderate daily drinking (1–2 drinks) negatively affects health, and 17% reported trying non-alcoholic alternatives in the past year.
2. Spirits & Whiskey Releases
- Koopers Whiskey Releases Texas Oak Finished Bourbon (The Spirits Business)
- The Product: Texas-based blending house Koopers Whiskey introduced a limited-edition (360 bottles) 8-year-old Bourbon finished in toasted Texas-grown white oak barrels crafted by Standard Cooperage in Blanco, Texas.
- Details: Bottled at a barrel proof of 57.4% ABV with a mashbill of 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley. Master blender Troy Kooper designed the release to highlight local Texan white oak character alongside aged MGP bourbon.
3. Ready-To-Drink (RTD) & Cocktails
- Is the Tequila in Your Seltzer Any Good? (The Tequila Report)
- The Myth vs. Reality: Contrary to popular belief, carbonation does not hide low-quality spirits—it amplifies off-flavors and volatile compounds.
- Quality Indicators: Top-quality canned tequila seltzers use 100% agave tequila, display their distillery NOM, and list minimal ingredients without heavy artificial sweeteners or flavorings. High-end seltzers can contain the equivalent of 1.35 to over 2.1 ounces of standard tequila per can.
4. Wine & Regional Highlights
- Why Provence Sets the Gold Standard for Rosé (VinePair)
- Overview: A deep-dive infographic highlighting the history, climate, and winemaking traditions that made the Provence region of France the global benchmark for crisp, high-quality rosé wine.
Liquor Industry News 08-21-26 The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)
August 21, 2026Exploring all things wine with you!
The stories featured in the Liquor Industry News (August 21, 2026) Flipboard collection curated by Mark Lenzi highlight new product releases, brand expansions, and industry milestones across spirits and wine:
1. Bardstown Bourbon Co. Releases Jura Cask & Discovery Expressions
- The News: Bardstown Bourbon Co. (under Lofted Spirits) introduced two new annual whiskeys: the 2026 Discovery and the Lochs of Jura Barrel Finish.
- Key Details:
- The Lochs of Jura Barrel Finish (52% ABV) blends 11-year Indiana bourbon, 10-year Indiana rye, and 12-year Kentucky bourbon, finished for 32 months in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks from the Isle of Jura distillery in Scotland.
- The 2026 Discovery (66.4% ABV) blends 10-year Indiana bourbon with 11-year and 7-year Kentucky bourbons, finished in custom Garryana (Oregon white oak) barrels.
- Both bottles retail for $139.99 USD and feature custom label artwork by artist Margaret Archambault.
2. Fireball Debuts “Torch’d Vanilla” Limited Release
- The News: Sazerac’s Fireball Cinnamon Whisky launched a new limited-edition variant in the US called Torch’d Vanilla.
- Key Details:
- Bottled at 33% ABV, it blends vanilla, toasted marshmallow, smoky oak, and baking spices with Fireball’s core cinnamon flavor.
- Rollout begins in September in two formats: 750ml bottles ($14.99 USD) and 50ml 10-packs ($9.99 USD).
3. Sazerac Expands into Soju with “Dalho”
- The News: Sazerac entered the rapidly growing US soju market with the launch of Dalho Soju, featuring a “category-first” 50ml mini format.
- Key Details:
- Bottled at 17% ABV, Dalho is available in Original, Peach, Strawberry, and Lychee flavors.
- Offered in traditional 375ml bottles ($5.99 USD) and 50ml bottles ($0.99 USD / $9.99 10-pack) to lower the barrier for consumers looking to try soju.
4. Seven New Masters of Wine Named (Largest Class Since 2021)
- The News: The Institute of Masters of Wine (IMW) announced seven new Masters of Wine (MW), bringing the total 2026 cohort to 11—the largest intake since 2021—and raising the total number of active MWs globally to 427.
- Key Details:
- The class includes historic national firsts: Tiago Macena MW becomes Portugal’s first resident MW, and Sue Tolson MW becomes Hungary’s first resident MW.
- The newly inducted members are Alice Archer (UK), Owain Hughes (UK), Weiran Liu (China), Gabriella Macari (US), Tiago Macena (Portugal), Jake Skakun (Canada), and Sue Tolson (Hungary).
Liquor Industry News 08-20-26 The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)
August 20, 2026Exploring all things wine with you!
The Liquor Industry News (08/20/26) magazine edition curated by Mark Lenzi (The Wonderful World of Wine) covers news, research, and innovation across the wine, beer, and craft beverage industries.
1. Drew Bledsoe on Washington Wine & Doubleback Winery
- Source: 425 Magazine (Denise Sakaki)
- Summary: Former NFL star quarterback Drew Bledsoe, who founded Walla Walla’s acclaimed Doubleback Winery, has been named the 2026 Honorary Chair for the Auction of Washington Wines. The article highlights Bledsoe’s role in promoting the Pacific Northwest wine industry, his personal journey as a winemaker, and the growth of his regional brand presence—including the Bledsoe Family Winery tasting room in downtown Walla Walla.
2. Sierra Nevada Introduces “Beer Soda” and Low-ABV Innovations
- Source: New School Beer + Cider (Ezra Johnson-Greenough)
- Summary: Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. is entering the low-ABV and hybrid beverage space with two major releases:
- Go-Two IPA: A 2.8% ABV full-flavored IPA created for drinkers looking to moderate alcohol consumption without switching entirely to non-alcoholic beer.
- Shred Beer Soda: A 4.5% ABV citrus-forward beverage inspired by Radlers and classic beer-soda mixes. Launching in a variety pack with Lemon, Orange, Lime Ginger, and Grapefruit flavors, it targets flavor-focused consumers looking for high-refreshment, easy-drinking options.
3. Cognitive Study Links General Intelligence to Wine Knowledge
- Source: PsyPost
- Summary: A study published in Intelligence & Cognitive Abilities evaluated 525 participants to explore the link between general intelligence (g) and domain-specific knowledge. Findings show that higher IQ scores consistently predict greater factual knowledge about wine, even when controlling for personal drinking habits or whether participants work in the alcohol industry. The study suggests high cognitive ability serves as a driver for acquiring complex, non-academic knowledge.
4. Top Global Cities for Craft Beer Enthusiasts
- Source: PorchDrinking
- Summary: A round-up exploring top global destinations for craft beer lovers, analyzing local brewing traditions and pub cultures. Featured hubs include:
- Portland, Oregon: Recognized for pioneering American craft beer and density of microbreweries per capita.
- Denver, Colorado: Highlighting the RiNo Art District’s taproom ecosystem and high-altitude brewing chemistry.
- Munich & Prague: Praised for deep historical roots, traditional lager production, and beer hall culture.
- Brussels & Melbourne: Noted for stylistic variety (Belgian lambics/sours) and creative botanical collaborations.
Liquor Industry News 08-19-26 The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)
August 19, 2026Exploring all things wine with you!
Here is a summary of the featured stories in the Liquor Industry News (08-19-26) collection curated by Mark Lenzi:
Key Stories in the Roundup
- How Did G4 Tequila Spend 10 Years Becoming an Overnight Sensation?
- Source: Tequila Report (by Jay Baer)
- Summary: Details the rise of G4 Tequila into Nielsen’s top 25 best-selling tequila brands in the United States. It highlights the decade-long, deliberate growth strategy and craft production methods behind its recent surge as one of the market’s fastest-growing tequila brands.
- Maker’s Mark Announces 2026 Edition of Cellar Aged Bourbon
- Source: Food & Wine (by David Thomas Tao)
- Summary: Maker’s Mark unveiled the 2026 release of its highly sought-after, allocated Cellar Agedexpression. Notably, this year’s release features the highest percentage of 14-year-old bourbon in the blend to date, marking a continued evolution from their traditional practice of eschewing age statements.
- The 12 Best Wine Estates for Tasting Pinot Noir
- Source: Time Out (by Richard Holmes)
- Summary: A curated guide to top international wine estates specializing in Pinot Noir—often dubbed the “heartbreak grape” due to its delicate, temperamental nature. The feature highlights premier tasting rooms and vineyards around the globe where enthusiasts can experience exceptional expressions of the varietal.
- The Next Big Thing in Nonalcoholic Beer: Functional Ingredients
- Source: Food & Wine
- Summary: Examines the evolving non-alcoholic beverage category, focusing on brewers who are enhancing non-alcoholic beers with functional ingredients (such as adaptogens, electrolytes, and mood-boosting botanicals) to cater to wellness-focused consumers.
Liquor Industry News 08-18-26 The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)
August 18, 2026Exploring all things wine with you!
Here is a summary of the stories featured in Mark Lenzi’s Liquor Industry News (08-18-26) collection on Flipboard:
1. What Is Rum? Light, Gold, Dark and Sipping, Explained
- Source: Kosher Wine Direct
- Summary: An introductory guide breaking down the rum category. It highlights that sugarcane is the only universal rule for rum, leaving room for diverse styles across light, gold, dark, and aged sipping rums due to a lack of single protected geographic regions or rigid global aging mandates.
2. Wax on Wine Bottles: Does It Provide an Extra Barrier for Oxygen?
- Source: Substack (Jamie Goode)
- Summary: An examination of whether sealing wine bottles with wax offers functional oxidation protection or serves purely as aesthetic packaging. Wine writer Jamie Goode explores winemakers’ claims regarding oxygen ingress and bottle aging versus standard capsules.
3. 2026 Price Map: What an Old Fashioned Costs on Average in All 50 U.S. States
- Source: VinePair (Stephen Bradley)
- Summary: A state-by-state pricing breakdown analyzing the average cost of an Old Fashioned cocktail across America. The piece charts how inflation, regional spirit pricing, and state liquor tax variations affect bar menu prices nationwide.
4. Trump Tariffs Hit US Wine Imports
- Source: The Drinks Business
- Summary: An industry report analyzing the trade and financial impact of federal tariffs on international wine imported into the United States, highlighting supply chain adjustments, increased costs for distributors, and retail price pressures.
Liquor Industry News 08-17-26 The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)
August 17, 2026Exploring all things wine with you!
Here is a summary of the primary stories featured in the Liquor Industry News (08-17-26) collection curated by Mark Lenzi (The Wonderful World of Wine):
🍷 Wine News & Guides
- Best Red Wine for Braising Ribs (Tasting Table)
- Highlights full-bodied, accessible red wines that make an ideal base for rich culinary dishes like braised ribs, offering an easy flavor upgrade available in any standard wine aisle.
- Ireland’s Emerging Wine Industry (BBC News)
- Explores the small but growing ecosystem of Irish vineyards. While Ireland is traditionally associated with stout and whiskey, it is recognized as a wine-producing nation by the European Commission, with local winemakers carving out a distinct niche.
- The Rise of Quality Non-Alcoholic Wines (Robb Report)
- Highlights recent technological and production shifts in zero-proof winemaking, noting that non-alcoholic wines have dramatically improved in body, structure, and taste—making them genuine options for enthusiasts looking to skip alcohol.
🥃 Spirits & Whiskey Highlights
- 15 Top American Whiskeys Under $25 (Food Republic)
- A roundup showcasing high-value American whiskeys and bourbons that deliver strong flavor profiles and craft quality without exceeding a budget-friendly $25 price point.
Liquor Industry News 08-16-26 The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)
August 16, 2026Exploring all things wine with you!
Here is a summary of the stories featured in Mark Lenzi’s Liquor Industry News (08-16-26) collection on Flipboard:
Key Stories & Highlights
- Red Wine with Spicy Food: Why Dolcetto Works
(Source: Tenuta Il Finale)
While standard pairing advice suggests serving light, aromatic whites or off-dry wines with spicy cuisine, this piece highlights Dolcetto as an unexpected red wine pairing. Its low tannin levels, bright acidity, and juicy fruit profile allow it to complement spicy flavors without intensifying heat. - The Powerhouse Woman Behind Oregon Wine
(Source: Fortune)
Profiles Amy Prosenjak, who transitioned from managing inventory for a billion-dollar furniture retailer to leading a major wine business. Today, she oversees operations linked to 1 in every 4 bottles of Oregon wine sold in the United States. - 5 Beers Professional Chefs Drink to Beat the Heat
(Source: Food & Wine)
Chefs share their go-to summer brews for staying refreshed. Recommendations center around ultra-crisp, light-bodied options like German lagers, radlers, and crisp pilsners that offer high drinkability during hot weather. - 7 Surprising State Alcohol Laws That Catch Visitors Off Guard
(Source: Food Drink Life)
A breakdown of quirky and unexpected liquor laws across different U.S. states—ranging from strict Sunday sale restrictions to unique limits on happy hour specials and package store operations—that frequently surprise travelers.
Liquor Industry News 08-15-26 The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)
August 15, 2026Exploring all things wine with you!
The Flipboard magazine collection “LIQUOR INDUSTRY NEWS 08-15-26” curated by Mark Lenzi (The Wonderful World of Wine) features articles covering trends, regions, and market developments across spirits, wine, and beer.
Here is a summary of the featured stories in the collection:
1. Want to Drink Rare Bourbons for a Good Price? Try Winning the Lottery
- Source: Wine Enthusiast (by Kristy Alpert)
- Summary: Details how consumers can acquire highly sought-after, rare bourbons (like Pappy Van Winkle or BTAC) at manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP) rather than extreme secondary market markups through state-run or retailer-sponsored liquor lotteries.
2. Vermentino, Explained: The Distinctive Italian White Wine You Should Know
- Source: Food & Wine (by Tom Hyland)
- Summary: Profiles Vermentino, an Italian white wine grape primarily grown in Liguria, Tuscany, and Sardinia. Known for its salinity, coastal influence, herbal notes, and surprising aging potential, it stands out against standard straightforward Italian whites.
3. World Cup Is Gone. Beer’s Summer Blues Remain. Now What?
- Source: VinePair (by Dave Infante)
- Summary: Analyzes the beer industry’s market performance following major summer sports events like the World Cup. It examines how the anticipated sales boost provided temporary relief, but underlying challenges and demand shifts in the beer sector persist.
4. Ancient Areni Reawakens
- Source: Deborah Parker Wong
- Summary: Explores the resurgence and heritage of Areni, an ancient indigenous grape variety from Armenia, highlighting how modern winemakers are reviving historical winemaking traditions and indigenous varietals to bring Armenian wines onto the global stage.
Liquor Industry News 08-14-26 The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)
August 14, 2026Exploring all things wine with you!
Here is a summary of the featured stories curated in Mark Lenzi’s Liquor Industry News (08-14-26) collection (The Wonderful World of Wine):
1. Podcast Masterclass with Deborah Parker Wong
- Source: SoundCloud / The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)
- Overview: Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi sit down with prominent wine journalist and educator Deborah Parker Wong for an in-depth masterclass covering key trends, viticulture insights, and wine evaluation techniques.
2. Climate Change & True Terroir
- Source: Substack (Sandra E. Taylor)
- Overview: Explores how environmental shifts and extreme weather events—such as summer wildfires around major wine regions like Bordeaux—are altering traditional terroir, grape cultivation, and the future profile of wines in the glass.
3. US Brewery Density & Market Shifts
- Source: VinePair (Stephen Bradley)
- Overview: Provides a data-driven look at how per-capita brewery counts have evolved state-by-state since 2010. It examines industry stabilization, craft brewery closures, and regional shifts across the American beer landscape.
4. Jameson Distiller’s Batch US Launch
- Source: The Spirits Business
- Overview: Reports on the official U.S. arrival and retail availability of Jameson’s new Distiller’s Batch release, expanding the brand’s premium Irish whiskey footprint.
Liquor Industry News 08-13-26 The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)
August 13, 2026Exploring all things wine with you!
Here is a summary of the featured stories in Mark Lenzi’s curated Flipboard collection Liquor Industry News (08-13-26)from The Wonderful World of Wine:
Key Stories & Headlines
1. Crown Royal Partners with Juicy Couture
- Source: The Spirits Business
- Summary: Diageo’s Crown Royal has teamed up with Y2K lifestyle brand Juicy Couture to release limited-edition bottle bags and matching velour tracksuits inspired by Crown Royal’s flavored whiskies (Regal Apple, Peach, and Blackberry).
- Key Detail: The collaboration supports diversity in the fashion industry through a $75,000 donation to RaiseFashion, funded by 100% of the net proceeds from tracksuit sales.
2. Old Elk Releases 10-Year-Old Whiskey Trio
- Source: The Spirits Business
- Summary: Following its acquisition by Ohio-based Middle West Spirits, Colorado whiskey maker Old Elk introduced three high-ABV 10-year-old expressions:
- Straight Bourbon (52.2% ABV): Unique high-barley recipe (51% corn, 34% malted barley, 15% rye).
- Straight Wheat Whiskey (51.5% ABV): 96% wheat and 4% malted barley.
- Wheated Bourbon (52.5% ABV): 51% corn, 46% wheat, and 3% malted barley.
- Pricing & Availability: All three bottles are priced at $69.99 (750ml) and distributed nationwide.
3. The “Frozen Pickle Wine” Viral Trend
- Source: Sporked
- Summary: An analysis of the latest internet drink trend: dropping frozen dill pickle slices into a glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc as savory ice cubes.
- Takeaway: Evolving from frozen grapes and “spicy Sauvy B” (frozen jalapeño slices in white wine), the trend highlights how consumers embrace low-effort, high-novelty freezer hacks—even if food critics conclude that the brine clash is best kept separate from good wine.
4. How to Grow Wine Without Herbicides
- Source: Beyond Organic Wine (Substack)
- Summary: Examines sustainable and organic viticulture practices, detailing modern advances in vineyard tools, cover crops, and soil management aimed at eliminating chemical herbicides in favor of regenerative grape growing.
Liquor Industry News 08-12-26 The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)
August 12, 2026Exploring all things wine with you!
Here is a summary of the stories featured in the Liquor Industry News (08-12-26) collection curated by Mark Lenzi (The Wonderful World of Wine):
- Copper & Kings Expands Distillery-Exclusive Shipping: Louisville, Kentucky-based brandy producer Copper & Kings announced it is offering nationwide shipping for its distillery-exclusive bottlings, making limited-edition spirits available directly to consumers across the country.
- Ready-to-Drink (RTD) Cocktails Gain Ground in Bars: Beyond conquering supermarket retail shelves, ready-to-drink canned and bottled cocktails are increasingly being integrated into on-premise venues and behind bar programs as bars adopt them for speed, consistency, and convenience.
- Extreme Heat Forces Early & Nighttime Grape Harvests in Italy: Climate change and scorching temperatures in Italy (specifically the Franciacorta sparkling wine region) are shifting harvest schedules. Vineyards are harvesting grapes up to 10 days earlier than usual and relying on pre-dawn/nighttime picking to protect fruit quality from intense heat.
- The Producers Behind Costco’s Kirkland Boxed Wine: An inside look into the sourcing, wineries, and production partnerships behind Costco’s popular and budget-friendly Kirkland Signature boxed wine offerings.
Liquor Industry News 08-11-26 The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)
August 11, 2026Exploring all things wine with you!
The stories featured in Mark Lenzi’s Liquor Industry News (08-11-26) collection cover a mix of industry launches, legal developments, and market trends:
1. China’s Top Wine Influencer “Lady Penguin” Faces Smuggling Trial
- The Story: The company behind Wang Shenghan (known online as Lady Penguin), China’s prominent wine influencer with over 6 million followers, is set to stand trial in Beijing on September 1, 2026.
- Details: Both the corporate entity (Beijing Lady Penguin Wines & Spirits) and an individual are accused of smuggling goods and duty evasion. This marks a dramatic downturn for a digital brand that previously generated up to RMB 350 million ($48M+) in annual sales before facing debt, lawsuits, and declining operations in recent years.
2. PourPlays Launches Gamified Wine Education & Discovery Platform
- The Story: Startup PourPlays announced the official launch of its interactive “Play–Learn–Win” mobile platform designed to make wine education engaging for new generations of consumers.
- Details: The app combines game mechanics (such as pairing challenges and trivia levels) with AI-powered tasting notes, live event integrations, and promotional coupons. It aims to bridge the disconnect between traditional wine marketing and younger, digitally native drinkers.
3. Bota Box Debuts Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon in a 1.5-Liter Format
- The Story: Major boxed wine brand Bota Box launched a premium Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon packaged in a 1.5-liter box (equivalent to two standard 750ml bottles) at a suggested retail price of $20.
- Details: Crafted by winemaker Alicia Ysais using select lots from recent Napa vintages, the launch reflects growing industry demand for premium-tier wines packaged in sustainable, eco-friendly alternative formats.
4. A Look Back at Pre-1984 State Drinking Laws in the U.S.
- The Story: A historical analysis published by VinePair explores the state-by-state landscape of legal drinking ages prior to the passage of the 1984 National Minimum Drinking Age Act.
- Details: The article highlights how state drinking ages varied widely—ranging from 18 to 21—and examines how the federal government used federal highway funding leverage to standardize the age at 21 nationwide.
