The recent TTB Proposal to modernize spirits regulations added a host of new definitions for terms that are widely used but not defined in the regulations, including “cask strength,” “white whiskey” and “oak barrel.” Despite the voluminous nature of the TTB proposal, though, there are still a number of widely used terms that are not defined in the regulations, including the following:
Read MoreWe found one of our old favorites at a new bottler of Armagnac. Easily one of the world’s greatest brandies, once thought to have been lost to the blenders, has resurfaced and is changing the way people see the special brandy of Gascogne. A benchmark bottling that cannot be missed.
Read MoreChoose a house and fight for Westeros.
Read MoreDespite rum’s shady past, we think it has a bright future. That’s why we’re particularly excited about one of our new products, Copalli Rum, that defies all your preconceived notions about the spirit. From the heart of the rainforest in Belize, this rum is all about refined taste, a sense of place, conservation and the community. Everything about this spirit feels good – from your taste buds to your conscience.
Read MoreThe designation of Bottled in Bond has been many things through the years – a guarantee of quality, a protection against taint, a sign of good budget booze...but does it really stand for any of those things anymore? And is it worth keeping around or is it time to retire the whole concept?
Read MorePure Magic. In liquid form and bottled for your convenience.
Read MoreA rare cache of special Scotch and Bourbon have arrived just in time for those who have to take it to the next level this xmas.
Read MoreWe jumped at the chance to bring in this classic Highland peated malt, and for the price, we’re pretty sure you’ll be jumping too!
Read MoreEight days in and we’ve seen eight incredible whiskies. One of the youngest in the new line-up this Glen Garioch really punches above its weight.
Read MoreBlink and you'll miss this mythical beast. A nutty and sweet malt from the obscure Fettercairn distillery.
Read MoreThanks for your interest in our fundraising efforts for victims of the fires in both Northern and Southern California. Due to the overwhelming response generating by this campaign, it’s taking us a little longer than expected to finish up the organizational details. We expect to contact everybody involved shortly. We appreciate your patience, and we appreciate your support of the charitable organizations assisting the fire victims.
Read MoreThis bourbon/sherry mixed stave hogshead delivers the best of both world's in one single first fill cask.
Read MoreA lot of interesting discussion ensued after I posted a summary of the TTB’s new proposed regulations for spirits. Of all the proposed changes, the most controversial seemed to be the definition of oak barrels.
Read MoreBenrinnes is a gorgeous malt in a beautiful place. Highly underrated thanks to the lack of interest from its owners, but always in play when we find them in the wild. A stupendous spirit.
Read MoreWill Beare, one of our spirit specialists in Redwood City, created this stunning winter martini. The cocktail has a elegant presentation perfect for holiday parties and it is as equally scrumptious as it is beautiful. A combination of vodka, gin and sweet vermouth, this elegant cocktail has nice depth and flavor without any heaviness. The twist of lemon on top completes the drink, adding a bright finish of citrus.
Read MoreA stunning and incredibly dark sherried cask to sweeten up the holidays.
Read MoreOn Monday, the Treasury Department’s Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), the agency that regulates the production and sale of alcohol, published new proposed regulations for the labeling of wine, beer and spirits. This new proposal is a comprehensive revision of the current regulations. The 132 page publication includes many changes that those of us in the spirits world have been pushing for years. The list of revisions is too voluminous to recite here, but here are some of the most significant for whiskey and other spirits.
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