Terry Sorantino and Jeffrey Cheskin's 'Liquid Alchemy' Brings Mead to Delaware

Terry Sorantino, a tax accountant, and Jeffrey Cheskin, a chiropractor, found their passion for mead during a vacation to Maine. Inspired by this ancient beverage, they delved into crafting their own unique meads in their free time. Years later, their hobby evolved into 'Liquid Alchemy Beverages', a tasting room in Wilmington where they serve their creations. With mead making a comeback in the craft beverage scene, Sorantino and Cheskin believe they're at the forefront of a potential revolution. Their tasting room, open on select days, offers a space for enthusiasts to explore and enjoy their meads, often accompanied by food trucks on weekends. For those curious to learn more, their website is the place to visit.

Exploring the Top American Whiskeys: Winners of the 2024 World Whiskies Awards

The 2024 American Whiskey Awards, held at the prestigious Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky, showcased a diverse range of top-ranked American whiskeys, from historic brands to emerging craft distillers. Notable winners included Heaven Hill Distillery as Distiller of the Year, Greg Metze from Old Elk Distillery as Master Distiller/Master Blender of the Year, and Buffalo Trace Distillery as Visitor Attraction of the Year. The event also saw the induction of Joseph J. Magliocco and Freddie Johnson into the Whisky Magazine Hall of Fame. Craft distillers were lauded for their exceptional work, with Bethany Brown, editor of Whisky Magazine, highlighting the industry's upward trajectory and the increasing quality standards in products. Among the standout whiskeys were Breckenridge – Port Cask Finish for Best Non-Kentucky Finished Bourbon and 15 Stars – Sherry Cask Finish – for Best Kentucky Finished Bourbon. Other winners included Laws Whiskey House for Best Non-Kentucky Small Batch Bourbon and Four Roses for Best Kentucky Small Batch Bourbon. With craft distillers dominating the awards and showcasing innovative expressions, the future looks promising for American whiskey enthusiasts. For a complete list of winners, visit the World Whiskey Awards website.

Brewing Success Through Innovation and Community at Bluebird Distilling and Char and Stave

Jared Adkins, the visionary entrepreneur behind Bluebird Distilling and Char and Stave, navigated the challenges of the pandemic by embracing expansion and creativity. Despite the exodus of most of his staff during the shutdowns, Adkins opted to invest in new ventures, including coffee roasting alongside his distillery operations. This decision proved fruitful, leading to the birth of Char and Stave, a vibrant café franchise offering a unique blend of coffee and cocktails. Adkins' journey from mechanical engineer to distillery owner exemplifies his relentless pursuit of passion and his willingness to take risks. With an unwavering focus on community and a knack for innovation, Adkins continues to elevate the spirits scene on the Main Line, one cup and cocktail at a time. The full article can be found HERE.

Peg Leg Porker Takes the Crown: The World's Best Bourbon of 2023 Revealed

In a historic showdown of spirits, Peg Leg Porker Tennessee Straight Bourbon White Label emerged victorious as the world's best bourbon, according to the esteemed Tasting Alliance. Founded by award-winning pitmaster Carey Bringle, Peg Leg Porker stands out not only for its memorable name but also for its innovative filtration process. Every drop of this 4-6-year-old bourbon passes through hickory charcoal, imbuing it with a unique smoky character reminiscent of barbecue. With strong caramel and honey notes complemented by tangy undertones, this 90-proof bourbon offers a truly distinctive drinking experience. Surpassing stiff competition from renowned brands, Peg Leg Porker's win cements its status as a must-try for bourbon aficionados seeking something truly exceptional.

Demystifying Bourbon Age Statements: A Guide for Whiskey Enthusiasts

Age statements on bourbon bottles can be cryptic for many whiskey enthusiasts, but understanding them is essential for appreciating the spirit's nuances fully. In a comprehensive guide by Tasting Table, the intricacies of bourbon aging are unraveled to shed light on what these statements truly mean. From decoding the significance of numbers to discerning the impact of barrel aging on flavor profiles, this insightful article equips readers with the knowledge to navigate the world of bourbon with confidence. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a curious novice, unlocking the secrets behind bourbon age statements adds a layer of appreciation to every sip. Explore the full article HERE to embark on a journey of whiskey enlightenment.

Westland Distillery Unveils Solum Edition 2: A Journey into Pacific Northwest Peat

Westland Distillery, at the forefront of the American single malt category, introduces the second edition of Solum American Single Malt Whiskey, marking another milestone in their exploration of American peat. As part of the Outpost Range, Solum embodies the essence of the Pacific Northwest with its focus on showcasing the region's unique terroir. This edition features 100% Washington Peated malt, matured in a blend of new and used oak casks to create a robust yet nuanced expression, highlighting smoke undertones alongside notes of herbs and savory spice. Shane Armstrong, Westland's Master Blender, describes Solum as a nod to tradition with an eye to the future, offering a complex array of flavors including rosemary, tobacco, brioche, and fresh dill. Notably, Solum Edition 2 reflects Westland's commitment to sustainability, with a harvesting process designed to preserve the ecosystem of the peat bog. With accolades from Maxim and Men's Journal for its predecessor, Solum Edition 2 promises to captivate whiskey enthusiasts with its distinctive character and Pacific Northwest charm. Explore the essence of Westland's terroir at www.westlanddistillery.com.

A.M. Scott Distillery Unveils 2024 Founder’s Select Bourbon Whiskey: A Limited Edition Treat

A.M. Scott Distillery is set to delight bourbon enthusiasts with the release of its first 2024 batch of Founder’s Select Bourbon Whiskey, a meticulously crafted 7-year barrel-aged bourbon. Available exclusively at Scotty’s Bottle Parlor, the distillery's bottle shop, this limited edition offering promises a refined experience with its rich flavor profile boasting hints of caramel, vanilla, dried fruit, and a touch of spice. Bottled at barrel strength, the bourbon retains its full-bodied character and smooth finish, ensuring a satisfying sip every time. With bottles limited to four per person, enthusiasts are encouraged to reserve theirs in advance via the distillery's online store. Located in the heart of downtown Troy, A.M. Scott Distillery continues its tradition of excellence, blending, bottling, and labeling an array of spirits, including bourbon, vodka, and gin. Keep an eye out for their upcoming release of Bourbon Whiskey finished in a Bourbon Honey Barrel, offering a unique touch of local sweetness. For more details and to explore their range of spirits, visit scottdistillery.com.

Lisa Wicker: Shaping the Future of Bourbon at Garrard County Distilling Co.

In a bold move, Atlanta-based Staghorn has secured Lisa Wicker, a seasoned master distiller, to lead the helm at its newly minted $250 million Garrard County Distilling Co. in Lancaster, Kentucky. Wicker, known for her illustrious career spanning prestigious distilleries like Widow Jane and Lyons Brewing & Distilling Co., brings a wealth of expertise and accolades to her new role. With a focus on traditional craft disciplines, Wicker is set to oversee operations at what is now the largest independent distillery in Kentucky, capable of churning out 150,000 barrels of whiskey annually. Her innovative approach is poised to shape the future of bourbon production, with plans to craft distinctive offerings like the All Nations brand, paying homage to Kentucky's rich temperance history. Staghorn's strategic move underscores a commitment to excellence, ensuring that Garrard County Distilling Co. emerges as a powerhouse in the bourbon landscape. For the full article, click HERE.

Old Glory Distilling Co. Unveils New Restaurant: A Fusion of Southern Flavors and Distillery Charm

Clarksville's renowned Old Glory Distilling Co. is set to debut its eagerly awaited Restaurant & Silo Park on February 19th, 2024, promising a unique blend of Southern hospitality, innovative dining experiences, and of course, their signature spirits. Founded by Matt Cunningham, the distillery aims to create a vibrant gathering spot for the community, offering indoor and outdoor seating alongside entertainment spaces and a full bar experience. The menu, inspired by their exceptional bourbons, boasts scratch-made dishes infused with a playful Southern twist. From mouthwatering tacos to smoked prime rib, each dish reflects the same attention to detail as Old Glory's acclaimed spirits. With a welcoming ambiance and a menu designed to delight, The Restaurant & Silo Park at Old Glory Distilling Co. is poised to become a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. Explore more at oldglorydistilling.com and experience the spirit of Tennessee like never before. For more information visit: www.oldglorydistilling.com.

Heaven's Door Launches The Exploration Series: A French Twist on Tennessee Bourbon

Heaven's Door Spirits, guided by Master Distiller Ken Pierce and Master Blender Alex Moore, introduces The Exploration Series, a collection of limited expressions pushing the boundaries of craft whiskey. Inspired by co-founder Bob Dylan's restless spirit, this series promises innovative blends and finishes. The inaugural release showcases French influence, blending award-winning Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey with a finish in Calvados Brandy casks and French oak staves. This process imbues the bourbon with notes of fresh apple cider and baked apples, complemented by hints of brown sugar and caramel from heavy-toasted French oak. Aged for at least 5 years, bottled at 108 proof, and priced at $79.99, this debut expression promises a unique flavor journey. Discover more at heavensdoor.com.

Wake Up and Smell the Mead: But First, Coffee Returns to Funktastic Meads!

Attention Funktastic Mead Fans! Set your alarms because But First, Coffee is back and it hit the shelves on February 15! Whether you're a seasoned sipper or new to the scene, this fan-favorite mead is not to be missed. Brewed with the finest Sinn-O-Bun Coffee from Bones Coffee, this sweet mead boasts a robust flavor profile enhanced with hints of vanilla and cinnamon, guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds. With a hearty 13% ABV, But First, Coffee offers the perfect pick-me-up for any occasion. Don't hit snooze on this limited release – snag your bottle at OZNR or join them in the taproom tonight for a caffeine-infused celebration! Visit Funktastic’s website for more details.

Other Bourbon and Mead News

As we reluctantly conclude another chapter in our bourbon and mead adventures, let's raise our glasses one final time to toast the unforgettable moments shared and the exquisite flavors savored. Whether it's the smooth warmth of a fine bourbon or the velvety sweetness of a carefully crafted mead, these libations have a way of bringing us together and sparking conversations that linger long after the last drop is poured. So here's to the memories made, the friendships strengthened, and the anticipation of future gatherings filled with the amber glow of bourbon and the golden hue of mead. Until next time, may your glasses be full and your spirits high. Cheers!

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Saturday, February 17, 2024

B&M Digest, Volume I, Issue 04