Here is a summary of the featured stories in the curated “LIQUOR INDUSTRY NEWS 10-23-26” collection:
We Taste-Tested 8 Dark Beers — Our Final Ranking Surprised Even Guinness Fans (Food & Wine) A look at a blind taste test of eight dark beers that evaluates how various stouts and dark brews stack up against the classic Guinness Draught, noting its deceptively light body, crushability, and 4.2% ABV.
The Map Is Being Redrawn, and the Grapes Are Coming Back From the Dead (Substack / Sandra E Taylor) An exploration of shifting wine landscapes, including bending appellation rules, the growing sparkling wine scenes in countries like England and Sweden, and dedicated growers reviving rare, historic grape varieties.
Art and Wine Have a Long History. But Does Art Sell Wine? (VinePair / Christina Makris) An investigation into the commercial and cultural intersection of fine art and wine labeling, examining whether artistic collaborations and gallery-style aesthetics actually influence consumer buying habits.
California Backs Local Spirits with Distillery Trail (The Spirits Business) Coverage of California’s new statewide distillery trail initiative designed to boost tourism, showcase craft distilleries, and support local spirits producers.
Here is a summary of the stories featured in the curated collection (LIQUOR INDUSTRY NEWS 10-19-26 by Mark Lenzi / The Wonderful World of Wine):
Liquor Industry News Overview
Source: thewonderfulworldofwine.education
Summary: A weekly compilation highlighting new products, trends, and updates across the liquor and beverage industry.
6 Genius Uses for Wine Corks You Probably Haven’t Thought of Yet
Source: Good Housekeeping (by Wendy Rose Gould)
Summary: Creative and practical household or garden DIY ideas for repurposing leftover wine corks instead of throwing them away.
Why Is Marijuana Regulated More Strictly Than Alcohol, Even Though It Is Safer To Use? (Op-Ed)
Source: Marijuana Moment
Summary: An opinion piece examining the regulatory discrepancies between the cannabis and alcohol industries, noting that cannabis often faces much stricter compliance and tracking standards despite being considered safer to use.
Sparkling Apple Cider Sangria Recipe
Source: Tasting Table
Summary: A seasonal cocktail recipe combining autumn flavors like apple cider with wine/spirits and bubbly for a festive fall drink.
(Note: The curation contains a total of 12 stories focused on wine, industry commentary, DIY tips, and drink recipes.)
Here is a summary of the stories from Mark Lenzi’s Liquor Industry News 10-08-26 magazine feed on Flipboard:
1. Trentino Sparkling Wine Exploration
Source: Substack (Tom Hewson)
Summary: An in-depth feature exploring the mountain sparkling wines of Trentino, Italy, following a series covering the Franciacorta region, highlighting the region’s picturesque vineyard landscapes and traditional-method sparkling wines.
2. IWSC Best American Whiskey Award
Source: Food & Wine (Brad Japhe)
Summary: Bardstown Bourbon Company’s limited-release 104-proof bottle ($140) was named the top American whiskey for 2026 by the International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC). The release blends aged bourbon and rye with a unique finishing process that earned it a near-perfect score.
3. Wild Turkey’s $300 Russell’s Reserve Release
Source: Food & Wine (David Thomas Tao)
Summary: Details why the new premium $300 Russell’s Reserve release from Wild Turkey carries a rye-like spicy and earthy profile. The article attributes this distinct flavor to where and how the barrels were aged over more than a decade in specific microclimates across the rickhouses.
4. Rise of Low-Alcohol Wine Trends
Source: Food & Wine
Summary: Examines the growing trend of low-alcohol wines as consumers seek moderate drinking options without completely foregoing wine, highlighting shifts in production methods and market demand.
Here is a summary of the stories featured in the Liquor Industry News (10/05/26) magazine curated by Mark Lenzi:
1. Liquor Industry News & New Products
Source: The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)
Summary: An industry update covering new beverage alcohol product launches, market trends, and industry updates compiled by wine and spirits certified specialist Mark C. Lenzi.
2. Our Favorite Cheap Beer Brand Of All Time Was Also The Favorite Of Miners
Source: The Takeout (by Joe Hoeffner)
Summary: A look back at classic budget-friendly American beer brands, exploring how historical working-class staples (such as mining-community favorite beers) continue to hold a nostalgic and appreciated spot alongside the modern craft beer market.
3. One Of America’s Most Beloved Beers Is Also The Worst Tasting Overall
Source: Tasting Table (by Autumn Swiers)
Summary: An analysis examining how one of the most ubiquitous and popular light beers across American tailgates and college campuses regularly ranks poorly in taste rankings, highlighting the divide between mass popularity/affordability and sensory quality.
4. There Are Rules That Distinguish Sparkling Wine From Champagne
Source: Morning Brew
Summary: An overview of the strict regional, legal, and production rules (such as traditional method fermentation and protected designation of origin in France’s Champagne region) that differentiate authentic Champagne from other global sparkling wines.
Here is a summary of the news stories featured in the Liquor Industry News (10-04-26) collection on Flipboard:
1. Quick Trick for Chilling Wine (Southern Living)
Summary: Offers practical guidance on how to chill a bottle of wine down in as little as 15 minutes without relying on the freezer, providing a fast solution when preparing for dinner parties or last-minute gatherings.
2. Advocating for Wine Consumption (Post-Journal)
Summary: A commentary encouraging readers to enjoy a glass of wine with friends or family, framing wine consumption and appreciation as an enjoyable routine to share with loved ones.
Summary: Honig Winery in Napa Valley is introducing detailed ingredient labels (listing simple ingredients like grapes, yeast, and sulfites) on their bottles, sparking discussions around transparency and wine-labeling standards across the industry.
4. How to Serve Sake Like a Pro (Elite Traveler)
Summary: Explores proper sake serving techniques and etiquette, aimed at demystifying traditional Japanese sake service for international drinkers accustomed to standard small ceramic cups.
Here is a summary of the stories featured in the Liquor Industry News collection:
1. Health & Trends: What Happens to Your Body During “Sober October”
Source: Food & Wine
Summary: With a recent Gallup poll showing that only 54% of U.S. adults consume alcohol (a historic low), interest in temporary abstinence programs like “Sober October” is rising. Doctors explain that health benefits begin within days—such as improved sleep quality and hydration—while deeper metabolic and physiological benefits continue to build throughout the 30-day period and beyond.
2. Bourbon Release: King of Kentucky Single Barrel 14-Year Returns
Source: Food & Wine
Summary: Brown-Forman has announced the fall release of its highly sought-after King of Kentucky Single Barrel Bourbon. Aged for 14 years and bottled at proof starting at 125, only 99 barrels made the cut for this ultra-premium collection, which will retailed at a suggested price of $399 per bottle.
3. Trade & Regulation: What US Winemakers Don’t Have to Tell UK Consumers
Source: The Drinks Business
Summary: A newly published UK-US bilateral wine agreement signed on September 30 outlines labeling requirements and trade rules for American wines sold in the UK. The report highlights discrepancies in how winemaking techniques, ingredients, and processes are disclosed to British consumers compared to local or European standards.
4. Spirits Exploration: What 50-Year-Old Whisky Tastes Like
Source: Esquire
Summary: An in-depth feature exploring ultra-aged whiskies, examining the maturation process, the rare flavor profiles that develop over five decades in wood, and why these exceptionally aged spirits command such significance and high value in today’s liquor market.
Here is a summary of the featured stories from the Liquor Industry News collection on Flipboard:
Key Stories & Headlines
U.S. Ban on Canadian Alcohol Imports
Source: CNN
Summary: A newly implemented U.S. ban targets Canadian alcoholic beverages, affecting roughly $800 million worth of trade between the two nations and highlighting heightened trade tensions.
China’s Wine Imports Continue to Slide
Source: The Drinks Business
Summary: Demand for imported wines in China continues to decline as economic factors and changing consumer preferences alter the international wine market landscape.
Understanding Biodynamic Wine & Farming
Source: Vero Wine
Summary: An exploration of biodynamic winemaking, looking beyond standard organic certification into holistic farming techniques, unfiltered wines, and popular styles like orange wine.
Expert Recommendations for Wedding Wine
Source: Wine Enthusiast
Summary: Industry professionals weigh in on selecting the best wine profiles, sparkling wines, and crowd-pleasing varietals for wedding receptions and toasts.
Here is a summary of the stories featured in the “Liquor Industry News” collection:
Liquor Industry News (Overview): An introductory curation by Mark C. Lenzi highlighting the latest product updates, trends, and news within the wine and liquor industry.
A Turtle Taught Millions of People to Cut Up Six-Pack Rings. Does It Still Matter?: A look back at Peanut—the red-eared slider turtle whose shell was permanently warped into a figure-eight by getting stuck inside a plastic six-pack ring as a baby—and how this iconic story inspired a generation to cut up their plastic rings to protect wildlife, examining whether those habits still hold significance today.
3 Fall Beers You Should Be Trying in 2026: A seasonal spotlight recommending three distinct fall beer styles and selections to try as the weather shifts and beer enthusiasts transition into autumn drinking.
8 Best German Beers Available in the US: A curated guide to top-tier German beers widely accessible to consumers in the United States, perfect for Oktoberfest season and classic European beer styles.
Here is a summary of the stories featured in the “LIQUOR INDUSTRY NEWS 09-18-26” collection by Mark Lenzi:
Your Favorite College Sports Team Might Have Its Own Beer — Here’s Why
Source: Food & Wine (Rich Manning)
Summary: Universities and alcohol producers are increasingly collaborating to release school-branded beers and beverages. These partnerships generate valuable revenue for athletic programs while providing fans and alumni with a thematic drink to enjoy on game day.
Why Soju Is The Ultimate Vodka Swap
Source: Food & Wine (Clara Wang)
Summary: The article explores how Korean soju serves as a great alternative to vodka in cocktails. With its neutral flavor profile and lower alcohol content, this traditional spirit (distilled from rice or other starches) offers a clean and versatile base for various drinks.
Italian Aperitivo Favorites: Classic Bottles, Spritz Ideas & European
Source: mydrinx.shop (Yulia Nazarini)
Summary: A look into the Italian aperitivo culture, detailing classic bottles, spritz recipes, and the relaxed European lifestyle surrounding pre-dinner social drinking.
Sazerac Revives Glenmore Whiskey
Source: The Spirits Business
Summary: Sazerac is bringing back the historic Glenmore whiskey brand, adding another classic label back into active production within the spirits market.
Here is a summary of the stories featured in the Liquor Industry News (09-14-26) collection on Flipboard:
Top U.S. Wine Towns for Fall Harvest: Highlights nine scenic U.S. wine destinations—spanning from coast to coast—that come alive during the late summer and fall harvest season, offering visitors a dynamic look at vineyards during peak grape picking.
Optimum Nutrition’s Protein Beer Review: A review of ChampionSips, a new limited-edition non-alcoholic pilsner created by Optimum Nutrition that incorporates 10 grams of plant-based protein per serving.
Virginia’s Emerging Whiskey Scene: Explores how Virginia is rapidly becoming one of the American South’s premier whiskey destinations, giving traditional bourbon hotspots like Kentucky strong competition through its rich history and growing craft distilleries.
Essential Bourbon Cocktails: A round-up guide covering 18 classic and essential bourbon cocktail recipes every whiskey fan should know.
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.
Angel’s Envy Cask Experiment Review (Robb Report) A taste-test review of Angel’s Envy’s latest release—a bourbon finished in both stout and Amburana casks—describing the experimental blend as a misfire that results in a very unusual flavor profile.
Top-Selling Bourbon Retains Market Lead (Mashed) A feature analyzing the brand strategy and long-term consistency of the world’s best-selling bourbon brand and how it maintains its dominant global position year after year.
Here is a summary of the featured stories in Mark Lenzi’s Liquor Industry News 08-28-26 magazine collection on Flipboard:
Key Stories & Headlines
Sangria vs. Tinto de Verano: Which to Sip? (bullagastrobar.com) Compares two iconic Spanish summer wine drinks, exploring the differences between fruit-infused Sangria and the simpler, refreshing combination of red wine and carbonated soda (Tinto de Verano).
“Tasting Enough Wines” Will Not Make One an Expert, Research Shows (thedrinksbusiness.com) Highlights a new intelligence study debunking the common assumption that volume drinking or simply tasting a vast number of wines makes someone a wine connoisseur.
Redwood Empire Unveils “The Hyperion” Limited-Edition Blend (thespiritsbusiness.com) Details California-based Redwood Empire’s latest limited release: a unique, one-off blend featuring four distinct whiskey styles, including the brand’s own single malt.
Wine and Health: Dr. Laura Catena on the Science Behind Moderate Drinking (falstaff.com) Features insight from physician and vintner Dr. Laura Catena examining the scientific perspective and physiological research around moderate wine consumption.
Here is a summary of the featured stories in the Liquor Industry News (August 27, 2026) magazine curated by Mark Lenzi (The Wonderful World of Wine):
Key Stories & Headlines
Changing Palates (World of Fine Wine)
Summary: Renowned wine writer Terry Theise, alongside a panel of distinguished wine writers, explores how taste in wine evolves over a person’s lifetime as they grow older.
Alcohol at the Supreme Court (SCOTUSblog)
Summary: Kelsey Dallas reviews Supreme Court discussions regarding alcohol law precedents, examining how the justices referenced the Founding Fathers’ drinking habits while considering legal frameworks around substance regulations.
Rally Dog Vodka Ade Launch (Boston Beer Co.)
Summary: Boston Beer Company announced Rally 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 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.
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 327 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Matchmaking & Premium Cocktails with Erik Segelbaum In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down with the incredibly accomplished Erik Segelbaum. With an extensive wine background that […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 326 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Drink, Eat And Do With Monique Soltani In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down with broadcast journalist, media personality, and wine expert Monique Soltani. As the […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 325 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Adapting, Judging, and Unlearning Wine with Joe Roberts In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down for an engaging conversation with Joe Roberts, the creative force behind […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 324 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Inside the Mind of a Master Sommelier with Michael Meagher What does it actually take to reach the absolute pinnacle of the wine world? In this powerhouse episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 323 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Destination Weddings, Wine, and the Language of Italy With Jennifer Martin Get ready for an enchanting journey through the heart of Italy! In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 322 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! A Masterclass With Deborah Parker Wong 🍷 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 […]
