When I wrote Westland and American Whiskey Independence, I didn’t realize Westland would be the first in a long line of distillery acquisitions and rumors. Months later, the Westland transaction still bothers me, because I loved what they were doing and independent distilleries are the … Continue readingWestland’s Response to Critical Blog Post
Last week, Diageo announced its new flavored whiskey lineup, including extensions of Jeremiah Weed and Crown Royal, as well as the new brand “Piehole.” The company said: “Piehole was inspired by grandma’s favorite pie recipes. They are a delicious blend of Canadian whisky and pie flavored liqueur. This … Continue readingThe Flavored Whiskey All Frat Boys Want: Piehole Apple Pie
From David Frost, Scotch Whisky Association chief executive, regarding Scotland independence vote. “The people of Scotland have made a historic choice against the background of the most profound national debate. “We welcome the stability that this choice brings and now urge politicians of all parties to work … Continue readingWhat does Scotch Whisky Association think about Scotland’s referendum vote?
There’s the new car smell, new shoe smell and the new distillery smell—a lovely aroma of fresh wood, copper and sweet alcohol dripping off the shimmering still. At Copper & Kings Distillery, near a slaughterhouse in the Butchertown District of Louisville, I picked up a … Continue reading8 Fun Facts About the New Copper & Kings Distillery
UPDATED: 5/23/14 9:20 a.m.: Comments from Jefferson’s Reserve founder Trey Zoeller at the bottom of the page. Jefferson’s was one of the brands reported to the TTB. A couple years ago, I was having drinks with a San Francisco woman who bragged about her favorite rye … Continue readingPrivate Citizens Pursue ‘Deceitful’ Whiskey Brands in Federal Government
On the plane to San Francisco, I pondered the past year in bourbon and the trends that could impact my beloved category. We’ve seen age statements drop like flies and distilleries discontinue or slow down private barrel selection programs (that’s where a retailer, bar or … Continue readingBest Bourbon, Best Craft Whiskey: ’14 San Francisco World Spirits Competition