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.
The articles featured in Mark Lenzi’s Liquor Industry News (09-04-26) Flipboard collection highlight key trends, regulation breakdowns, and recommendations across spirits and wine:
Why Your Tequila Was Bottled in Indiana: 7 Rules Explained (Tequila Report / Jay Baer) Explores spirits labeling regulations and import laws that require or permit tequilaâproduced and distilled in Mexicoâto be transported in bulk and bottled in U.S. facilities (such as in Indiana) before reaching retail shelves.
Wine Folly Launches Its First Mobile App (Wine Industry Advisor) Announces the release of Wine Folly’s inaugural mobile app, which puts 32 interactive wine region maps directly onto smartphones to assist consumers and professionals with educational exploration and terroir navigation.
15 Bartenders Share Best “Bang for Your Buck” Scotches (VinePair / Rich Manning) A round-up featuring recommendations from 15 professional bartenders on high-value Scotch whiskies that deliver exceptional quality, flavor, and complexity without demanding a luxury price tag.
Bordeaux Fire Myths Debunked (The Drinks Business) Addresses and clarifies common misconceptions, rumors, and overstatements regarding recent wildfire events and their actual impact on vineyards, production, and smoke taint risk in the Bordeaux wine region.
Here is a summary of the main news stories featured in the Liquor Industry News collection curated by Mark Lenzi:
1. Basil Hayden Releases First Cognac Cask-Finished Bourbon
Publisher: Food & Wine (Tony Sachs)
Summary: Basil Hayden has launched a new expression finished in French oak casks that previously held Cognac for 20 to 25 years. This release marks the brand’s first-ever use of casks from a non-American spirit. Bottled at 40% ABV, it offers an accessible price point of around $50.
2. The College Football Beer Boom
Publisher: Food & Wine (Rich Manning)
Summary: College football stadiums historically prohibited beer sales, but recent policy shifts combined with new financial drivers in college athletics have led to a massive expansion of beer availability at games. The article explores how changing venue policies and stadium economics are reshaping game-day culture.
3. America’s Top Beer by Interest
Publisher: Food & Wine (Stasia Brewczynski)
Summary: Based on an analysis of Google search data by Innerbody, Michelob Ultra leads as the most-searched beer across the nation. Lagers dominate consumer search trends overall, capturing four out of the top five spots nationwide.
4. Celebrity Spirits Profile: Dos Hombres Reposado
Publisher: Tequila Report
Summary: A feature on Breaking Bad co-stars Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul’s mezcal brand, Dos Hombres, highlighting their Reposado expression and discussing the growing landscape and market dynamics of celebrity-backed agave spirits.
Here is a summary of the featured stories curated in the Liquor Industry News (09-02-26) collection on Flipboard:
Market Trends & Category Shifts
Canadian Whisky Slumps in US Control States (The Spirits Business) Data from the National Alcohol Beverage Control Association reveals that Canadian whisky experienced the sharpest sales decline among spirits categories in US control states in July, contrasting with positive growth seen in categories like Scotch and Tequila.
Getting Grenache Noticed by Consumers (The Drinks Business) Despite being the seventh most planted grape variety globally, Grenache often lacks direct brand recognition among wine drinkers, who frequently consume it in blends without realizing it. Industry leaders are discussing strategies to highlight the grape directly to consumers.
Climate Change Pushes French Wine Production North (The Drinks Business) Evolving climate patterns and rising temperatures are shifting optimal viticultural zones in France further north, forcing vineyard managers and winemakers to adapt traditional growing regions and practices.
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 stories featured in the Liquor Industry News (08-30-26) collection curated by Mark Lenzi (The Wonderful World of Wine):
Wine & Terroir
7 Great Cabernet Sauvignons From Napaâs Storied Rutherford AVA (Robb Report) Highlights premier Cabernet Sauvignons from Napa Valleyâs Rutherford AVAâa region renowned for its distinct soil profile and heritage dating back to the 19th century.
Cocktails & Spirits
Why Bars Across the Globe Are Serving Their Martinis Colder Than Ever (Robb Report) Explores the global trend of serving ultra-chilled, sub-zero Martinis to enhance the texture, dilution control, and overall drinking experience.
Retro Revival: 11 Classic â50s Cocktails That Deserve a Comeback (Food & Service) Takes a nostalgic look back at 1950s mixology, offering a resurgence of classic cocktail recipes and techniques for modern home bars and venues.
Pairings & Flavor Science
What Makes a Food Pairing Work? (Cocoa Runners) Examines the principles and flavor science behind successful food and beverage pairings (such as chocolate with spirits or wine).
Here is a summary of the featured stories curated in the Liquor Industry News (08-29-26) collection from The Wonderful World of Wine:
Key Industry Stories
Unusually Early & Rapid Grape Harvest in Germany (Wines of Germany)
Summary: The 2026 wine vintage in Germany is experiencing an exceptionally early start and rapid grape ripening across all of its major wine-growing regions. Winemakers are accelerating harvest timelines to capture optimal acidity and sugar levels.
The Go-To In-Flight Drink Recommended by Wine Experts (Travel + Leisure)
Summary: Six wine industry professionals share their top beverage picks for air travel. As airlines invest heavily in premium wine lists to drive passenger loyalty (such as luxury programs on carriers like Emirates and Porter), experts weigh in on which drinks elevate the travel experience right at takeoff.
Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) Wine Shipping Regulations (Free The Grapes)
Summary: An informative guide breaking down current state-by-state Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) shipping laws for wine lovers. The piece outlines consumer rights, shipping restrictions, and actionable ways wine enthusiasts can support modernizing DTC wine shipping legislation.
Volcanic Wine Regions Beyond Mt. Etna (VinePair)
Summary: A deep dive into distinctive volcanic terroirs around the globeâhighlighting regions from Santorini to the Canary Islands. The article explores how ash-rich, mineral-dense volcanic soils shape the acidity, minerality, and unique flavor profiles of these wines.
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.
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 Cityâs BibliothĂšque (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 Octoberâą 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.
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.
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%â90% Moscato Bianco blended with 10%â30% Brachetto.
2. What Makes Vermentino So Special?
Source: Substack â 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 AlarcĂłn)
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.
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.
As another heatwave begins in Europe, you might think all this dry, sunny weather would benefit drinks sales. We consider if thatâs true, as well as the impact on wine, and which styles stand to benefit.
Iâm sure many of you have heard of kosher food and many rules associated with it, in purchasing the ingredients, cooking, and consuming (donât mix meat and dairy, for example). But wine is wine, right?
Is wine good for you? Hereâs 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
Most beer drinkers have shoved a small lime slice through the narrow neck of a clear-bottled Corona â 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.
Sarah Jessica Parker and Invivo Winemakers Just Bottled the Internetâs Spiciest Wine Trend
Invivo X, SJP launches the first major-label Sauvignon Blanc infused with jalapeño â turning the TikTok phenomenon into a bottle you can pick up off the shelf & find on select restaurant menus this summer
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.
Minute Maid Spiked, part of Coca-Colaâs 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 brandâs other vodka-based offeringsâLemona de, Pink Lemonade, and four flavors of Vodka Punchâplus wine-based cocktails like Margarita and Daiquiri, among others, in the brandâs 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 Maidâs 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 competitionâs highest honor.
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.
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.
Mexico Became the Worldâs 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.
Chinaâs 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.
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.
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 âtropicalâ aromas in whisky
Researchers at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh have uncovered the source of âtropicalâ or âmangoâ-like characteristics in whisky, meaning distillers could in future âdial up or tone downâ the aromas as desired.
American whiskey brand Old Elk has released a collection of three 10-year-old expressions as the first major releases under Middle West Spiritsâ ownership.
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.
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.
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.
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, Kentuckyâthe official “Bourbon Capital of the World”âthis 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), PoitĂn (Ireland), and PĂĄlinka (Hungary).
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 18â34) and women (37% preference).
Health Awareness: Over 50% of Americans believe even moderate daily drinking (1â2 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 spiritsâit 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.
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:
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.
The News: Sazeracâs 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 Fireballâs 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 11âthe largest intake since 2021âand 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).
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 Wallaâs acclaimed Doubleback Winery, has been named the 2026 Honorary Chair for the Auction of Washington Wines. The article highlights Bledsoeâs role in promoting the Pacific Northwest wine industry, his personal journey as a winemaker, and the growth of his regional brand presenceâincluding 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.
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 […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 311 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! The Liquid Jazz Experience with Inventor Michael Fors In this episode, Kim and Mark dive into the art of aeration with Michael Fors, a Massachusetts-based wine inventor and the creator of The Liquid Jazz Experience. […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 310 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Uncorking a New Way to Learn with Mistral Wine Cards In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), Kim and Mark sit down with Seth Cysewski, the visionary founder and inventor of Mistral […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 309 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Decoding Non-Alcoholic Wine with Rachel Martin Get ready for groundbreaking wine education on The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) as Kim and Mark host Rachel Martin, the visionary Founder and CEO of Oceano Wines ( […]
