Here is a summary of the Liquor Industry News round-up (published by Mark C. Lenzi / Franklin Liquors – The Wonderful World of Wine):
Wine News & Guides
- Virginia Wine Recommendations: Summer wine recommendations highlighting crisp, bright, highly acidic Virginia wines that pair best with warm weather.
- Wine & Cruising: Discussion on why wine enthusiasts are embracing cruises as cruise lines tailor experiences to match wine magazine readership demographics.
- Gluten-Free Wine Pairings: Insights into selecting wines that complement gluten-free menus.
- Understanding Sauvignon Blanc: A primer explaining why Sauvignon Blanc is better described as "crisp and bright" rather than simply sweet or dry.
- Innovative Packaging: Taylor’s Port is rolling out lighter glass bottles for its fine fortified wines, aiming for a smaller environmental footprint without changing the classic aesthetic.
- New Single-Serve Products: Terragena launched Terra Pop, a single-serving frozen wine product.
- Chardonnay Rankings: VinePair published a selection of the 30 best Chardonnays for 2026.
- Wine Business Insights: James Silver published a new book, The Reset Is Over, analyzing the structural transformation of the wine industry and providing a blueprint for future business strategies.
Spirits & Distilling Industry
- Cooperage Closure: Alabama Cooperage (formerly known as Jack Daniel’s Cooperage) announced it will close in September, resulting in 71 job cuts.
- Moonshine University Shutting Down: Flavorman announced that Kentucky’s Moonshine University and its educational programs will permanently close on December 31, 2026, after 14 years in operation.
- New Releases:
- Deep Eddy Espresso Vodka: Heaven Hill introduced a 35% ABV espresso-flavored vodka aimed at easy Espresso Martini prep ($17 / 750ml).
- Bardstown Pineapple Rum Cask: Bardstown Bourbon Company launched a Kentucky-exclusive whiskey finished in Caribbean pineapple rum casks.
Beer News
- Modelo & Corona Manufacturing Debate: Discussions around potential shifts in production locations for major Mexican beer brands imported into the US market.
- Top-Rated Non-Alcoholic Beer: Highlight on top-rated low-calorie, non-alcoholic options, led by Athletic Brewing Co.
- Hazy IPA Alternatives: A list of 11 lesser-known hazy IPAs recommended for craft beer enthusiasts.
