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”).
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 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.
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%–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.
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 that’s true, as well as the impact on wine, and which styles stand to benefit.
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?
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
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.
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
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-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.
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 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.
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.
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 ‘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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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: 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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
Here is a summary of the featured stories in Mark Lenzi’s Liquor Industry News (08-10-26) collection on Flipboard:
Key Stories in this Edition
Liquor Industry News Roundup (thewonderfulworldofwine.education) Curated by wine & spirits educator Mark C. Lenzi, this issue covers industry updates, new beverage releases, regulatory notes, and retail market developments across the wine, spirits, and beer sectors.
How Weight-Loss Medication is Changing Relationships with Alcohol (BBC News) An exploration into an unexpected side effect of popular GLP-1 weight-loss medications (such as Ozempic and Wegovy): many users report a significant decrease in alcohol cravings and overall consumption alongside their reduced appetite.
Best Champagne for Celebrations: How to Choose (winesfromfrance.com) A practical guide to selecting Champagne for major milestones and events, detailing differences in sweetness levels, grape blends, price points, and serving tips for memorable toasts.
Mexico Became the World’s Largest Beer Exporter (mexicosolidarity.com) A report detailing Mexico’s dominant milestone as the top global exporter of beer, driven by sustained international demand for Mexican lager brands in major export markets like the United States.
Why it’s hoped Taylor’s latest innovation will go unnoticed
As db is first to report, Taylor’s Port has developed a new, lighter bottle for its fine fortified wines. We find out why CEO Adrian Bridge is hoping that consumers won’t notice.
Will Modelo and Corona brewing move from Mexico to the US?
US President Donald Trump is being urged by trade unionists to make some of America’s biggest beer brands “a lot more American”. But what is provoking the rift with Mexico over imported beer? db looks at the argument
One of Pinot Noir’s most famous, if not most famous, progeny, Chardonnay captured American hearts long before the heartbreak grape took center stage in the early aughts.
Heaven Hill’s Deep Eddy has launched a new Espresso-flavore d vodka, billed as a shortcut for making the popular Espresso Martini cocktail and other coffee-forward drinks. The 35% abv vodka is now available across the U.S. with the 750-ml. size retailing at $17; Deep Eddy Espresso is also available in 50-, 100-, and 375-ml. formats, plus larger sizes like 1- and 1.75-liter bottles. This is the 10th expression in the Deep Eddy portfolio, joining popular flavors like Ruby Red and Sweet Tea, among others. Last year, Deep Eddy was up 1% to 1.75 million cases in the U.S., according to Impact Databank.
Bardstown finishes whiskey with pineapple
Lofted Spirits’ Bardstown Bourbon Company has introduced a Kentucky-exclusive expression, finished in pineapple rum casks sourced from the Caribbean.
11 Lesser-Known Beers You Should Try if You Love Hazy IPAs
Way back in the day, before craft beer rose to prominence, if a bartender served you a cloudy beer, you might send it back and start questioning the cleanliness of their tap lines. In today’s beer world, though, receiving a murky beer is considered by many to be an attractive feature.
Your Guide to Wheat Beer, From Hefeweizen to Berliner Weisse
From fruity German hefeweizens to citrusy Belgian witbiers and refreshingly tart Berliner weisse, here’s how to tell the world’s most popular wheat beers apart, and the best bottles to try this season.
Faux is an alcohol-free, wine-adjacent beverage made from verjus, wine grapes, fruit, and botanicals. Every ingredient has a role. Verjus provides acidity and structure. Wine grapes create a varietal foundation. Fruit brings balance and aromatic lift. Botanicals add savory complexity.
How Four Roses Is Shaping the Future of Bourbon Without Forgetting Its Past
Iconic brands never tread water. Instead, they make waves. Always in motion, these outfits manage to both honor longstanding tradition and stay ahead of trends via constant innovation.
Champagne to limit production to 250m bottles for 2026
The region of Champagne is to cap the amount of wine that can be made from this year’s harvest at 8,800kg/ha – the equivalent of around 250 million bottles.
Could craft beer be seeing the start of a second wave?
In the US, craft brewing trends have held steady, declines in operating breweries have slightly increased and consumer engagement has strengthened. Jessica Mason asks: are we seeing craft beer’s resurgence?
Why electrolytes have become wine’s newest additive
Joel Gott Wines has released Sauvy B, a canned Sauvignon Blanc spritz with electrolytes from pink Himalayan salt – the latest sign that ‘functional’ hydration ingredients, long confined to sports drinks and hangover cures, are moving into wine.
10 reasons why Moldovan wine should be on your radar
The story of Moldovan wine is one of fortitude in facing great challenges – and now this remarkable wine nation is ready to take its place on the global stage. We pick out 10 reasons why the country is worth a closer look by those in the drinks trade.
Super Mario’s namesake planted the grapes behind Washington’s only 96-point scoring white wine
Of all the white wines produced in Washington, only one earned a top score from the 2026 Decanter World Wine Awards, widely considered the Oscars of the wine world. The grapes that made it were planted by the man who inspired Nintendo’s most famous character.
Jimothy the viral raccoon gets his own beer can tribute from a top Mass. brewery
While Tree House shared few details about the can, it confirmed on Instagram that, “yes they are real, and they’re beautiful,” and that they’re on sale at the Charlton location.
Wales bids for world’s first natural wine appellation
Britain could become home to the world’s first appellation dedicated to natural wine, with Welsh producers seeking protected status for wines made without synthetic chemicals, additives or industrial yeasts. The proposed Natural Wine of Wales PGI would also require grapes to be grown and spontaneously fermented in Wales.
The “porch pounder” is a slang word for a wine that is light in alcohol, crisp in acidity, and easy drinking. These are the wines that don’t need food or even snacks to enjoy. You simply crack it open and guzzle it down, to live up to its phrase.
Hard seltzer loses its sparkle as the RTD market evolves
The past decade has seen the rise and fall of hard seltzers as they have morphed into other RTD categories. Can the sector regain the effervescence that initially made it so popular?
Old Elk, owned by Ohio’s Middle West Spirits, has announced a trio of 10-year-old whiskies, the first major new releases from Old Elk since its May 2025 acquisition by Middle West. The new releases include a Straight Bourbon, a wheat whiskey, and a wheated Bourbon, all retailing for $70 a 750-ml. The Bourbon is made from a mash of 51% corn, 34% malted barley, and 15% rye, and bottled at 52.5% abv. The wheat whiskey is distilled from 96% rye and 4% malted barley and released at 51.5% abv. Finally, Old Elk’s new wheated Bourbon is bottled at 52.5% abv and distilled from 51% corn, 46% wheat, and 3% malted barley. All three are rolling out now across the U.S.
The European Sparkling Wines Tell a Story in Every Sip
With 27 countries spanning 1.5 million square miles, 446 million inhabitants and 24 languages, the European Union (EU) is the third largest exporter of agricultural and agri-food products consumed in the U.S. Products produced in the EU not only have a long cultural history steeped in culinary tradition, but are held to rigorous standards denoted by a specially developed set of EU Quality Labels designed to assure consumers are not only getting a top-caliber product, but to also inform them about the product’s background.
It’s one of the most recognizable regional identities in the world, and it carries that recognition into everything: from wine labels to travel brochures to the produce aisle at a grocery store
‘Worst crisis since WWII’: Bordeaux wildfires continue amid extreme heat
As wildfires continue to blaze near Bordeaux, in what President Emmanuel Macron has described as the toughest situation France has faced since World War II, the country’s celebrated wine region confronts a growing environmental crisis.
Australian wine exports have fallen to their lowest level in more than two decades as a worldwide decline in wine consumption weighs on demand, according to a new industry report.
Chinese brewer Tsingtao has joined forces with Great Northern Distillery to make Irish whiskey for Asian consumers, with plans to open a distillery in China.
US wine industry risks losing ground without collective marketing
While regional trade organizations “do excellent work”, the US wine trade “does not do a fantastic job” of collective marketing, says agency founder behind anti-prohibitionist campaign.
Here is a summary of the featured articles in Mark Lenzi’s Liquor Industry News (08-09-26) collection on Flipboard:
1. Friuli DOC: A Systemic Vision of Great Wines and Territories
Source: Great Italian Food Trade (by Dario Dongo)
Summary: Explores the controlled designation of origin (DOC) for “Friuli” / “Friuli Venezia Giulia,” which protects 21 (expanding to 23) recognized types of wines across four provinces in northern Italy. The article highlights systemic quality standards, regional identity, and market protection for Friulian wines.
2. Change Up Your Usual Cranberry Vodka Cocktail With One Additional Ingredient
Source: Tasting Table (by Josie Dlugosz)
Summary: A quick mixology feature that offers simple techniques to upgrade the staple vodka-cranberry cocktail year-round by adding a single complimentary flavor accent.
3. How To Make Limoncello The Amalfi Way: Four Ingredients And Ninety Days Of Patience
Source: Gamin Traveler (by Ruben Arribas)
Summary: Details the traditional Amalfi Coast approach to crafting homemade limoncello. It breaks down the process requiring only four fundamental ingredients—lemons, alcohol, sugar, and water—along with a 90-day steeping and aging period for optimal flavor.
4. Classic Golf Course Beers You’ll Want to Drink This Summer
Source: The Manual
Summary: A roundup of crisp, refreshing, and sessionable classic beers ideal for drinking during a round of golf in hot summer weather.
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 322 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! A Masterclass With Deborah Parker Wong 🍷 Prepare to be inspired! In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down with one of the most influential figures in […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 321 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Crushin’ It in Boston: Redefining Wine Culture with Gabrielle Malina Grab a glass and settle in! This week on The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), Kim and Mark are joined by the powerhouse behind Boston’s […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 320 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Unveiling Perfection: Napa’s New Icon with Jayson Hu From a world-class collector to a visionary creator, Jayson Hu is redefining the pinnacle of Napa Valley luxury. In this episode, Kim and Mark sit down with […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 319 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Wine Digital Marketing With Molly Bossardt In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down with Molly Bossardt of Bread & Butter Digital Marketing to pull back the […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 318 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Sip, Sense, and Savor: Unlocking the Mindful Glass with Carrie Boyle Cheers, wine lovers! In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), your hosts Kim and Mark sit down with the incredibly multi-talented […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 317 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Tariffs, Triumphs, and the Supreme Court: A Conversation with Victor Owen Schwartz In this landmark episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down with a true titan of the […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 316 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! From Food Critic to Wine Titan With Meridith May In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), Kim and Mark sit down with a true powerhouse of the industry: Meridith May. As the […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 315 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Sustainability with Sandra Taylor In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark dive deep into the world of sustainable viticulture with special guest Sandra Taylor. As the author of […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 314 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! From Prescriptions to Stills with GlenPharmer Distillery In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down with Beth and Patrick Downing, the visionary owners of Franklin, Massachusetts’ own […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 313 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Decoding the Wine Label with Marie Cheslik Ever feel like you need a PhD and a Rosetta Stone just to pick a decent bottle of Cabernet? You aren’t alone. This week on The Wonderful World […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 312 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Parenting, Wine, and Playful Rhymes 🍷 Grab a glass and settle in! In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), Kim and Mark sit down with the witty and insightful Danielle Frank, author […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 311 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! The Liquid Jazz Experience with Inventor Michael Fors In this episode, Kim and Mark dive into the art of aeration with Michael Fors, a Massachusetts-based wine inventor and the creator of The Liquid Jazz Experience. […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 310 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Uncorking a New Way to Learn with Mistral Wine Cards In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), Kim and Mark sit down with Seth Cysewski, the visionary founder and inventor of Mistral […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 309 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Decoding Non-Alcoholic Wine with Rachel Martin Get ready for groundbreaking wine education on The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) as Kim and Mark host Rachel Martin, the visionary Founder and CEO of Oceano Wines ( […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 308 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Talking Whiskey With Colonel Craig Duncan Grab a glass 🥃 and join us for a very special episode as Kim and Mark take their first deep dive into the world of whiskey! We're thrilled to […]
