Liquor and Liqueur Connoisseur

Episode 121 features Bénédictine. Bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof and it retails for about $40.Enjoy this episode with a Béné & Hot, or just sip on it neat.Bénédictine's official website: https://www.benedictinedom.com/Brief Historical Timeline:1510 - Dom Bernado Vincelli, a monk at the Abbey in Fécamp, Normandy, France, creates an elixir intended to revie tired monks.1789 - The Abbey is destroyed during the French Revolution and the monks gift documents to secular benefactor Prosper Couillard.1863 - Alexandre Le Grand creates Bénédictine based upon a manuscript he finds in his grandfather Prosper Couillard's collection.1864 - Bénédictine is commercialized and the bottle trademarked.1882 - Alexandre Le Grand purchases the site of the old Abbey and builds a distillery.1888 - Bottles are first available in the United States. 1904 - The new Le Palais Bénédictine opens after the original distillery was destroyed by arson.1905 - An outpost for the brand is opened in Paris.1917 - British soldiers during WWI get a taste for Bénédictine and begin drinking it mixed with hot water post war back home.1937 - B&B, a version of Bénédictine mixed with Brandy, is first produced.1984 - The La Grand family sells the brand to Martini-Rossi.1992 - Bacardi purchases Martini-Rossi, becoming owner of Bénédictine.Key Cocktails:Bénédictine has been around for ages and prominently features in the Vieux Carré and Singapore Sling. But, you can also enjoy it like the patrons of the Burnley Miner's Club in England and drink it mixed with hot water. References:Wikipedia Article on BénédictineYouTube Video Featuring Le Palais Bénédictine - French languageThe Spruce Eats Article on BénédictineDiffords Guide Article on BénédictineThe Culture Trip Article on BénédictineEpicurious Article on BénédictineLiquor.com Article on BénédictineBBC Article and Video on the Burnley Miner's ClubOxford Companion to Spirits & Cocktails - BookContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram:

This is a special guest episode featuring B&B - Bénédictine & Brandy, courtesy of My Tiny Bottles hosted by Tammy Coxen. Tammy and I are on similar paths, diving into the world of distilled spirits, though Tammy is doing this by exploring her grandmother's legacy of miniature liquor bottles, one tiny bottle at a time. She has hundreds of bottles waiting to be discovered, and with each she's telling the story of them and then opening & tasting many of these vintage, collectible bottles! Later this year Tammy and I are planning to get together to taste some tiny bottles, but in the meantime, here's the story of Benedictine as told through bottle #17 in her collection, B&B.Enjoy this episode while I work on more of my regular content, including an episode on Bénédictine to follow shortly!

Episode 120 features Everclear Grain Alcohol. Bottled in 750ml at 95% ABV, or 190 proof and it retails for about $21.Enjoy this episode with something you've made with Everclear.Everclear's official website: https://diywitheverclear.com/Brief Historical Timeline:1922 - Everclear is mentioned in various issues of the Druggists Circular as a product of American Distilling Company.1936 - Article lists Everclear alongside whiskey, gin and rum.1950 - Everclear is registered as a trademark.1981 - American Distilling Company sells the Everclear brand to David Sherman Corporation.2006 - David Sherman Corporation rebrands as Luxco.2015 - First marketing campaign for Everclear, the "Make It Your Own" is launched. 2018 - New packaging, labeling is introduced.2021 - Luxco is purchased by MGP Ingredients.Key Cocktails:Everclear is described as a blank canvas, a clean slate and open invitation to make it your own. Everclear will add more "Punch to your Punch." Ample recipes are featured on the brand's website. References:Luxco WebsiteVinepair Article on Everclear HistoryVinepair List on EverclearThe Druggists Circular Punch Article on RebrandPress Release on Updated PackagingWikipedia Article on EverclearMGP Purchase of LuxcoArt Alexakis Quote on Everclear as his Band NameContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/

Episode 119 features Kentucky Owl, Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey - Maighstir Edition. Bottled in 750ml at 50% ABV, or 100 proof and it retails for about $134.Enjoy this episode with a pour of Kentucky Owl as you like it.Kentucky Owl's official website: https://kentuckyowlbourbon.com/ Brief Historical Timeline:1879 - Kentucky Owl is founded by C.M. Dedman.1916 - Production ends and aging stocks are confiscated by the US government, they are then all "lost in a fire".2014 - Dixon Dedman, great-great-grandson of the founder, releases Batch #1, resurrecting the brand.2017 - Stoli Group purchases Kentucky Owl.2018 - Groundbreaking of the 420 acre distillery complex and brand home.2023 - Maureen Robinson collaborates with John Rhea in the release of the Maighstir Edition.2023 - Maureen Robinson is named Master Blender for Kentucky Owl.Key Cocktails:Simply drink Kentucky Owl as you like it. Neat, on the rocks, with water, or you could mix it if you like.References:Interview with Kentucky Owl's Master Blender, Maureen RobinsonStoli Group WebsiteCoverage of Stoli Group's Purchase of Kentucky OwlKentucky Owl's Distillery Complex AnnouncementPress Release on Maureen Robinson Becoming Master BlenderPress Release on Maighstir Edition ReleaseMaureen Robinson BackgroundKeepers of the QuaichStory of Kentucky Owl in American WhiskeyThe Whiskey Wash Article on Kentucky OwlForbes Article on Kentucky OwlThe Beaumont Inn WebsiteContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram:

Episode 118 features St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram. Bottled in 750ml at 22.5% ABV, or 45 proof and it retails for about $30.Enjoy this episode with a tiki cocktail using "Pimento Dram" if you like.St. Elizabeth doesn't have standalone brand website, but here's the producer's website: https://alpenz.com/product-allspice.html Brief Historical Timeline:1850s - Pimento Dram is thought to have been invented.1862 - First written reference to Pimento Dram as a commercial product.1900s - Pimento Dram is fairly common, and finds use in Tiki cocktails.1980s - Pimento Dram leaves the US market.2008 - Haus Alpenz creates St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram, bringing Pimento Dram back to the US.Key Cocktails:St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram works in many tiki cocktails, but try this British concoction from 1937, the Lion's Tail.Ingredients:2 oz. Bourbon0.5 oz. of St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram0.5 oz. fresh squeezed lime juice1 teaspoon simple syrup2 dashes Angostura bittersOrange twist Combine ingredients in a shaker with ice, shake until well-chilled, then strain into a coupe or cocktail glass. Express oil from the orange twist over the top of the drink and discard (the twist, not the drink!). References:Book: Vintage Spirits & Forgotten Cocktails by Ted Haigh, copyright 2009 revised edition.Wikipedia Article on AllspiceWikipedia Article on Saint Elizabeth ParishWhat is Pimento Dram by The Spruce Eats2008 Article from the San Francisco Chronicle discussing the launch of St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram2015 New York Times ArticleCocktail Society Article on Allspice DramLiquor.com Article on the Lions Tale CocktailContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/

Episode 117 features Four Roses. Bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof and it retails for about $25.Enjoy this episode with a pour of Four Roses however you like.Four Roses official website: https://www.fourrosesbourbon.com/ Brief Historical Timeline:1860s - Paul Jones Sr. and Paul Jones Jr. get into the whiskey business in Atlanta, Georgia 1883 - Paul Jones Jr. moves to Louisville, Kentucky and builds his whiskey business there.1888 - The brand of Four Roses is founded with a legend of a southern belle and a corsage of four red roses.1894 - Paul Jones Jr. makes his nephews Lawrence Lavelle Jones and Saunders Paul equal partners in the Paul Jones Company.1895 - Paul Jones Jr. dies.Circa 1910 - Lawrence buys his brother Saunders out of the business1922 - Lawrence buys the Frankfort Distilling Company during Prohibition and securing a rare license to sell whiskey for "Medicinal Purposes Only."1941 - Lawrence dies, leaving the company to heirs would almost immediately sell it.1943 - Seagrams headed by Samuel Bronfman purchases Four Roses and Frankfort Distilling Company for $42 million.1950s - Seagrams converts Four Roses to a blended whiskey for the US market, reserving straight bourbon versions for export markets.1990s - Master Distiller Jim Rutledge convinces Seagrams to bring the straight bourbon back to the USA, in Kentucky only.2001 - Seagrams goes bankrupt and the beverage alcohol brands are sold off. Kirin Brewery Company, Ltd., Four Roses' Japanese distributor buys the brand.2002 - Four Roses Straight Bourbon Whiskey is bak on US shelves.2015 - Brent Elliott is named Master Distiller and a $55 million expansion of the distillery begins.2019 - Distillery expansion is complete, doubling capacity to 130,000 barrels a year.Key Cocktails:Drink Four Roses as you like, it mixes well in any cocktail calling for bourbon.References:Book: Four Roses - The Return of a Whiskey Legend by Al Young, copyright 2013Wikipedia Article on Four RosesWikipedia Article on the Language of FlowersWikipedia Article on the Pure Food and Drug ActWikipedia Article on V-J Day in Times SquareFour Roses History ArticleFour Roses History Article on SippingHistory.comDifford's Guide Listing for Four RosesContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram:

Episode 116 features Herbsaint. Bottled in 750ml at 50% ABV, or 100 proof and it retails for about $31.Enjoy this episode with an Herbsaint Frappe, or any cocktail that calls for absinthe.Herbsaint doesn't have it's own website, so here's the Sazerac listing: https://www.sazerac.com/our-brands/sazerac-brands/herbsaint.html Brief Historical Timeline:1914-18 - World War I and J. Marion Legendre 's friend Reginal P. Parker learns of pastis while stationed in Marseille, France 1920-33 - Post war, during Prohibition, Legendre and Parker make pastis in New Orleans1933 - Legendre introduces Legendre Absinthe in December, immediately following the repeal of Prohibition1934 - The Federal government forces Legendre to drop Absinthe from the name, Herbsaint is chosen as the replacement1949 - Legendre sells the brand and business to Sazerac & Company1950 - Sazerac changes the formulation, packaging and proof2009 - For the brand's 75th anniversary, Sazerac recreates the original recipe and resurrects the historical packaging, creating Legendre Herbsaint OriginalKey Cocktails:The Sazerac Cocktail is most widely cited, but it only uses Herbsaint as a rinse. Select an absinthe based cocktail as a better use for Herbsaint.References:Wayback Machine Archive Copy of The Virtual Absinthe Museum story of Herbsaint - This resource was invaluable in producing this episodeWikipedia Article on HerbsaintNew Orleans Absinthe HistoryImbibe Magazine Article Circa 2009Alcademics.com Article on the 75th Anniversary RelaunchSazerac House Recipe for the Sazerac Cocktail, featuring HerbsaintBarfaith.com ReviewContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/

Episode 115 features Tito's Handmade Vodka. Bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof and it retails for about $20.Enjoy this episode with some Tito's and soda with a lemon wedge.Tito's Handmade Vodka official website: https://www.titosvodka.com/ Brief Historical Timeline:1992 - Tito Beveridge begins making vodka infusions for his friends1995 - Tito applies for a distillery license1997 - First year of production yields about 1,000 9-liter equivalent cases2001 - Tito's wins a Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition2013 - United Airlines begins serving Tito's on all their flights2021 - 11,070,000 9-liter equivalent cases are sold, making Tito's the most popular distilled spirit brand in the USA, and providing enough for one 750ml bottle for each third person in the country2023 - Tito's runs a Superbowl commercial named Dry January that features Martha StewartKey Cocktails:Mix Tito's as you like.References:Eater Article on Tito'sWikipedia Article on Tito'sStatista Sales Volumes2022 Beverage Dynamics RankingGrain Volumes for Vodka Making2022 Corn Yields Per AcreYouTube Featuring Tito Speaking on Early FailuresYouTube Featuring Tito Telling the Origin StoryTito's Stories YouTube Videos (All 8 are referenced)Dry January Superbowl AdContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 114 features Jeppson's Malört. Bottled in 750ml at 35% ABV, or 70 proof and it retails for about $22.Enjoy this episode with a shot of Jeppson's Malört straight.Jeppson's Malört official website: https://www.jeppsonsmalort.com/ Brief Historical Timeline:1880s - Carl Jeppson immigrates to Chicago, Illinois, USA from Sweden1920s - Carl Jeppson begins making and selling door to door his own bask brännvin, later to be named Malört1933 - Carl Jeppson sells Malört to Bielzoff Products1945 - George Brode buys Bielzoff Products, eventually renaming the company Red Horse Liquors1953 - George Brode sells Red Horse Liquors, except for Malört1986 - Mar-Salle Distillery in Chicago, who had been making Malört since 1953, closes so production moves to Kentucky1999 - George Brode dies, leaving Jeppson's Malört to his friend and long-time secretary Patricia Gabelick2007 - The hastag #malortface catches on in Chicago with photos shared online2011 - Chicago comedian Sam Mechling begins promoting Malört on Twitter and Facebook, eventually raising the ire of Patricia Gabelick2012 - Sam Mechling officially joins the Carl Jeppson Company2018 - CH Distillery in Chicago buys the Carl Jeppson Company and Jeppson's Malört bringing production back to Chicago2020 - The brand was selling about 20,000 9-liter equivalent cases annually Key Cocktails:Don't mess around, you just take shots of Jeppson's Malört.References:Chicago Tribune Article on the History of Jeppson'sThrillist Facts ListFood and Wine ArticleSerious Eats ArticleYouTube Video Featuring Production at CH DistilleryYouTube Video Featuring an Interview with Sam MechlingYouTube Video: "Chicago's Grossest Drink, Explained"YouTube Video: "The Worst Liquor Ever"Contact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 113 features John D. Taylor's Velvet Falernum. Bottled in 750ml at 11% ABV, or 22 proof and it retails for about $22.Enjoy this episode with a pour of John D. Taylor's Velvet Falernum mixed in a tiki cocktail if you like.John D. Taylor's Velvet Falernum doesn't have a website I can find, so here's the US Importer's website: https://alpenz.com/product-falernum.htmlBrief Historical Timeline:Pre-1800s - Falernum is likely being made in Barbados on sugar estates alongside rum1821 - The first printed reference to Falernum is found1890 - John D. Taylor is said to have refined the Falernum recipe into this award-winning liqueur1934 - Falernum is used in tiki cocktails by Donn Beach at Don's Beachcomber1970s - Falernum is gone from the US market and global sales decline along with tiki1993 - R. L. Seale & Co. Ltd. purchases blender Alleyne Arthur who had previously purchased John D. Taylor, bring this version of Velvet Falernum under R. L. Seale & Co. Ltd.'s ownership2009 - Haus Alpenz begins importing John D. Taylor's Velvet Falernum into the USKey Cocktails:Try the Corn 'N Oil listed on the back label.Corn 'N Oil ½ oz. John D. Taylor's Velvet Falernum2 oz. Aged Barbados RumStir in an old-fashioned glass filled with ice. Garnish with a lime slice.References:Presentation by Richard Seal of R. L. Seale & Co. Ltd. on the history of FalernumWikipedia Article on FalernumDifford's Guide listing for John D. Taylor's Velvet FalernumJohn D. Taylor's Velvet Falernum Instagram AccountTeakwood Tavern Article on John D. Taylor's Velvet FalernumPunch Article on Rediscovering John D. Taylor's Velvet FalernumContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 112 features Cacique Guaro. Bottled in 365ml at 30% ABV, or 60 proof and it retails for about $3.Enjoy this episode with a pour of Cacique Guaro if you can find it.Cacique Guaro's official website: https://fanal.co.cr/ Brief Historical Timeline:1850 - Beverage alcohol production is nationalized in Costa Rica1853 - Fábrica Nacional De Licores, aka FANAL, is established and begins producing guaro1980 - FANAL brands Cacique Guaro and begins bottling it2015 - Cacique Guaro sells 1 million 9-liter equivalent casesKey Cocktails:Most Cacique Guaro is consumed mixed with fruit juice, or consumed neat. But, you can try this "fancy" version of a popular shot featuring Cacique Guaro.Chiliguaro (makes a batch to share)2 cups tomato juice⅔ cups Guaro - or as much as you want½ cup lime juice1 tbsp chopped onion1 tbsp chopped red pepper1 tbsp chopped cilantro½ tsp lizano sauce¼ tsp tabasco1 tsp sugar½ tsp salt½ tsp pepperBlend all the ingredients, strain and store in a glass bottle in the fridge. Serve very cold in shot glasses.References:Wikipedia Article on Cacique GuaroArticle on What is Cacique Guaro from the Tico TimesArticle on Giving Guaro a Second Sip from the Tico TimesThe National Drink of Cost RicaYouTube Video on the History of Guaro - In SpanishYouTube Factory TourCanadian Distributor's WebsiteContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 111 features Tia Maria. Bottled in 750ml at 26.5% ABV, or 53 proof and it retails for about $31.Enjoy this episode with a pour of Tia Maria on ice or in an Espresso Martini.Tia Maria's official website: https://www.tiamaria.com/ Brief Historical Timeline:1947 - Tia Maria is created with Dr. Kenneth Evans as the named founder 1980s - Hiram Walker acquires the brand2005 - Pernod Ricard ends up with Tia Maria through acquisitions2009 - Pernod Ricard sells Tia Maria to Illva Saronno Key Cocktails:Tia Maria is claimed to be the first coffee liqueur used in an Espresso Martini, so try it that way.Tia Espresso Martini25ml Tia Maria25ml VodkaSingle or Double Shot of Espresso3 coffee beans for garnishShake all ingredients with ice, double strain into a chilled Martini glass, garnish with three coffee beans.References:Wikipedia Article on Tia MariaDiffords Guide on Tia MariaPress Release on Pernod Ricard sale to Illva SaronnoPress Release on new bottle designCocktail-Society.com Article on Tia MariaTrade Focused Sales Sheet PDF, circa 2020Tia Maria's first TV Ad on YouTubeProduct Listing for Vanilla Beans Defining Bourbon VanillaContact Information:Official show website is: www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.comJoin my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHfFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 110 features Glayva. Bottled in 750ml at 35% ABV, or 70 proof and it retails for about $36. Enjoy this episode with a pour of Glayva neat. Glayva's official website: https://www.glayva.com/ (https://www.glayva.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1947 - Ronald Morrison creates Glayva 1960s - Glayva begins to spread across the UK and around the globe 1993 - Whyte & Mackay Ltd. acquire the brand 2022 - Glayva wins yet another double gold at the IWSC Key Cocktails: Enjoy Glayva neat or over ice. References: My thanks to Whyte & Mackay Ltd. for answering questions I had about Glayva via email and helping to fill in some of the blank. https://www.whyteandmackayltd.com/our-brands/glayva/ (Whyte & Mackay Ltd Listing for Glayva) https://www.scotsman.com/news/unlikely-origin-one-worlds-finest-liqueurs-1436085 (Scotsman.com Article on Glayva) https://www.scottishcountrydanceoftheday.com/daysoftheyear/glayva (Scottish Dance Site with Historical Bottles) https://web.archive.org/web/20050926220329/http://www.glayva.com/about.asp (Glayva.com Circa December 2004) https://web.archive.org/web/20151102040421/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/food-and-drink/whisky-liqueur/whisky-with-humble-origins/ (Telegraph.co.uk Article on Glayva (archived)) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glayva (Wikipedia Article on Glayva) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leith (Wikipedia Article on Leith) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 109 features Gordon's London Dry Gin. Bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof and it retails for $12. Enjoy this episode with the late Queen's favorite cocktail, the Dubonnet. Gordon's official website: https://www.gordonsgin.com/ (https://www.gordonsgin.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1769 - Alexander Gordon found his distillery in London 1786 - The distillery moves to Clerkenwell in London 1823 - Alexander's son Charles takes over after a 7 year apprenticeship 1877 or 1889 - The Gordon family sells to John Currie & Co. 1898 - Gordon's merges with Tanqueray 1904 - Gordon's begins being bottled in green glass Circa 1905 - Gordon's creates an export label and applies it to clear glass 1924 - Gordon's introduces a line of pre-mixed cocktails 1934 - Gordon's opens a distillery in New Jersey, USA 1962 - Gordon's becomes the bet selling gin in the world 1998 - Production of the UK and Europe moves to Fife, Scotland 2021 - Annual case sales reached 7.4 million 9-liter equivalent cases Key Cocktails: Enjoy Gordon's in the classic Dubonnet Cocktail. 1 part Gordon's Gin 2 parts Dubonnet (French aperitif wine) Lemon Twist Garnish Shake liquid ingredients with ice, strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a lemon twist. References: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gordon%27s_Gin (Wikipedia Article on Gordon's) https://www.diageobaracademy.com/en_zz/know-your-liquid/know-your-liquid-artilces/history-gordons-gin/ (Diageo Bar Academy Article) https://www.diageobaracademy.com/en_zz/know-your-liquid/know-your-liquid-artilces/250-years-of-gordons (Diageo Bar Academy History of Gordon's) https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2015/02/gordons-gin-a-brand-history/ (The Spirits Business Gordon's Brand History) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gin_Craze (Wikipedia Article on the Gin Craze) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beer_Street_and_Gin_Lane (Wikipedia Article on Gin Lane) https://www.theginguide.com/gordons-gin-review-and-tasting-notes.htm (The Gin Guide Listing) -includes list of botanicals https://www.hellomagazine.com/cuisine/20220613142764/the-queen-favourite-gin-brand-gordons/ (Hello Magazine Article on The Queen's Favorite Gin Brand) - it was Gordon's https://www.craftginclub.co.uk/ginnedmagazine/2016/4/21/cocktail-of-the-week-the-queens-favourite-gin-dubonnet (The Queen's Favorite Dubonnet Cocktail) https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2016/08/gordons-gin-unveils-new-bottle-design/ (The Spirits Business Article on New Bottle Designs for Gordon's) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 108 features Biodynamic Luna 1.1 from Waterford Whisky. Bottled in 750ml at 50% ABV, or 100 proof. This retails for $119. Enjoy this episode with any of the Waterford Whisky offers you can get your hands on! The official website for Waterford Whisky: https://waterfordwhisky.com/ (https://waterfordwhisky.com/ ) Brief Historical Timeline: 2004 - Diageo build the Waterford distillery site as a beer brewery 2015 - Mark Reynier converts the closed brewery into a whisky distillery 2016 - The first distillation goes into casks 2020 - The first releases are made available from Waterford Key Cocktails: Drink this neat. Add one or two cubes of ice if you like, but treat it as you would any good Single Malt. References: My interview with Neil Conway, Head Brewer for Waterford Whisky. https://whiskymag.com/story/interview:-mark-reynier-the-man-who-brought-the-taste-of-terroir-to-whisky (Whiskey Magazine Interview with Mark Reynier) https://waterfordwhisky.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/WD_What_Is_Biodynamics_01.pdf (Biodynamics Manure Horns Downloadable PDF) https://waterfordwhisky.com/editorial/the-bio-bros-part-2-preparations/ (More detail on Manure Horns Prep and Biodynamic Principles) https://www.biodynamics.com/biodynamic-principles-and-practices (Biodynamics.com Principles and Practices) Book (pages 120-123): From Barley to Blarney - A Whiskey Lover's Guide to Ireland, presented by the Dead Rabbit, Sean Muldoon, Jack McGarry, Tim Herlihy, and Conor Kelly Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 107 features Vestal Vodka, Polish Potato Vodka. Bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof. There are three options covered, the Unfiltered 2015 Vintage that retails for $28. Next is the standard or "white label" that retails for $20. Last is the Black Cherry that retails for $21. Enjoy this episode with any of the Vestal Vodkas you can get your hands on! The official website for Vestal Vodka: https://www.vestalvodka.com/ (https://www.vestalvodka.com/ ) Brief Historical Timeline: Early 1990s - William Borrell's father buys a farm in Poland 2009 - The Borrell's grow a crop of potatoes on their Polish farm and have it distilled into vodka 2010 - This first version of their vodka earns a perfect score on Difford's Guide 2020 - Halewood, a UK based spirits producer, purchases 48% of Vestal forming a partnership 2021 - TotalWine begins distributing Vestal Vodka in the USA, including all of the available Unfiltered 2015 Vintage 2022 - The brand is hitting it's stride, growing distribution while staying true to their traditional production methods Key Cocktails: It depends upon which version of Vestal you're drinking, but for the Unfiltered 2015 Vintage, let its flavor shine. The standard or "white label" is well suited for any vodka cocktail. The Black Cherry? Use it for flavor, recommended to be mixed with Coke for an alcoholic Cherry Coke. References: My interview with William Borrell, founder of Vestal Vodka. https://chilledmagazine.com/vestal-vodka-qa-with-william-borrell/ (Chilled Magazine Article on Vestal Vodka) https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2020/08/a-drink-with-william-borrell-vestal-vodka/ (The Spirits Business Article Featuring William Borrell) https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2020/01/halewood-buys-48-stake-in-vestal-vodka/ (The Spirits Business Article on Halewood Partnering with Vestal) https://www.vice.com/en/article/bjqgw5/the-mythical-polish-moonshine-that-apparently-leaves-no-hangover (Vice Article on Polish Moonshine) https://ladiesandgents.co/ (The Ladies & Gents Bar) https://www.insidehook.com/article/booze/vestal-vodka-review (Inside Hook Review) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 106 features Myers's Rum - Original Dark from Jamaica. Bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof. It retails for $20. Enjoy this episode with a Myers's Planter's Punch! The official website for Myers's Rum: https://www.myerssrum.com/ (https://www.myerssrum.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1879 - Fred L. Myers founds the Myers's Rum brand 1920s - The brand finds popularity as an inclusion in the Planter's Punch, adding this to their brand description 1954 - Eustace Myers sells the brand to Seagram's 2000 - Diageo acquires Myers's when Seagram's implodes 2018 - The Sazerac Company acquires the brand from Diageo Key Cocktails: Try the Planter's Punch. 1 part fresh squeeze lime juice 2 parts simple syrup 3 parts Myers's Original Dark Rum 4 parts ice Dash of bitters Orange wheel as garnish Add all ingredients into a shaker, shake, then strain into a highball filled with fresh shaved ice. Garnish and serve. References: https://www.sazerac.com/our-brands/sazerac-brands/myerss.html (Sazer)https://books.google.com/books?id=holNEAAAQBAJ&pg=PT1254 (ac Brand Listing) https://books.google.com/books?id=holNEAAAQBAJ&pg=PT1254 (Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails Book Excerpt) https://thefatrumpirate.com/myerss-rum-original-dark (The Fat Rum Pirate Myers's Rum Review) https://rum.cz/galery/cam/jm/myers/index-en.htm (Rum Label Collection Website Featuring Myers's Rum) And a Bottle of Rum by Wayne Curtis Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 105 features Broken Shed Vodka from New Zealand. Bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof. It retails for $25. Enjoy this episode with some Broken Shed with a twist! The official website for Broken Shed: https://brokenshed.com/ (https://brokenshed.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 2008 - Two Americans on sabbatical fall in love with the Wanaka region of New Zealand and move there permanently 2009 - Broken Shed Vodka is born when the first two founders wonder why they're drinking imported vodka, and decide to make one in New Zealand 2010 - After about a year of trials and tastings, Broken Shed Vodka is ready 2012 - Broken Shed Vodka becomes available in the USA 2022 - The brand closes in on 20,000 annual 9-liter equivalent case sales Key Cocktails: Let the vodka shine in a cocktail, try not to overpower it. Broken Shed Vodka also works really well for infusions. References: My interview with Mark Simmonds, Master Blender of Broken Shed Vodka along with materials provided by the brand. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/broken-shed-whey-vodka_n_2279898 (Huff Post Article from 2012) https://chilledmagazine.com/get-to-know-broken-shed-master-blender-mark-simmonds/ (Chilled Magazine Article on Broken Shed) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 104 features Maker's Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky. Bottled in 750ml at 45% ABV, or 90 proof. It retails for about $28. Enjoy this episode with a Maker's Mark Old Fashioned! The official website for Maker's Mark: https://www.makersmark.com/ (https://www.makersmark.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1840 - T.W. Samuels erects the family's first commercial distillery in Kentucky 1943 - Bill Samuels gets out of his family business, for awhile 1953 - Bill Samuels founds Maker's Mark 1958 - The first bottles of Maker's Mark are hand dipped in red sealing wax 1973 - Maker's Mark hires Kentucky ad agency Doe Anderson 1975 - Bill Samuels, Jr. becomes President and CEO of Maker's Mark 1980 - Maker's Mark is featured on the front page of The Wall Street Journal 1981 - Hiram Walker buys Maker's Mark 2004 - A second still is added to increase production 2005 - Pernod Ricard (who ended up with Maker's Mark through acquisitions) sells the brand to Fortune Brands, which would become part of Beam Suntory 2011 - Maker's Mark sells 1 million 9-liter case equivalents for the first time 2011 - Rob Samuels, grandson of the founder, takes over when his father Bill Samuels, Jr. retires 2013 - Proof is reduced 3%, but only for a moment 2015 - A $67 million investment includes a third still and new warehouses 2019 - Maker's Mark sells 2.4 mill cases Key Cocktails: Use as you would any quality bourbon. I'm drinking it neat, but try it in an Old Fashioned or Manhattan. References: Book: Maker's Mark - My Autobiography by Bill Samuels, Jr. published in 2000 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maker%27s_Mark (Wikipedia Article on Maker's Mark) https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2019/03/makers-mark-a-brand-history/ (Brand History Article on The Spirits Business) https://www.drinkspirits.com/bourbon/story-makers-mark-whiskey/ (Drink Spirits Story on Maker's Mark Whisky) https://www.thespiritseducator.com/makers-mark (Maker's Mark on The Spirits Educator) https://vinepair.com/articles/makers-mark-bourbon-secret-hops/ (Vinepair.com Article on Hops Used in Production) https://vinepair.com/articles/makers-mark-spelling-bourbon-cost/ (Vinepair.com Article on Maker' Mark) https://www.doeanderson.com/ (Doe Anderson Ad Agency for Maker's Mark) https://web.archive.org/web/20110726195638/http://www.manufacturing.net/News/2011/01/People-In-The-News-Samuels-To-Step-Down-As-Maker-s-Mark-President/?menuid=718 (Press Release on Bill Samuels, Jr. Retiring via the Wayback Machine) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 103 features Ron Flor de Caña 12. Boxed and bottled, it's 750ml at 35% ABV, or 70 proof and was intended for the domestic Nicaraguan market. In the United States, this is sold at 40% ABV, or 80 proof and it retails for about $40. Enjoy this episode with a neat pour of Flor de Caña 12! The official website for Ron Flor de Caña 12: https://flordecana.com/ (https://flordecana.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1875 - Alfredo Francisco Pellas Canessa immigrants to Nicaragua from Genoa, Italy 1890 - Alfredo sets up a sugar plantation and the workers celebrate the harvest with some rum made on site 1937 - Flor de Caña is established as a brand 1959 - Flor de Caña begins export sales in Central America 1980s - The brand stockpiles aging rum, amassing the largest reserves of aged rum in the world 1999 - Flor de Caña is sold to 40 countries and 5 continents worldwide 2012 - Distillery tours begin, following investment 2013 - The branding was updated including the bottles 2017 - International Wine and Spirits Competition awarded the brand the Best Rum in the World Key Cocktails: This is a sipping rum for sure, just great on it's own. However, you may also want to try it in a rum Old Fashioned. References: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flor_de_Ca%C3%B1a (Wikipedia Article on Flor de Caña) https://youtu.be/QwjniQb5DDE (Brand History YouTube Video) https://youtu.be/dlLiOH76aWk (An Older Brand History YouTube Video) https://youtu.be/LylcKmIwZZ4 (Brand Ad on YouTube) https://youtu.be/myBujgo8FWw (Distillery Tour YouTube Video) https://youtu.be/RvYIlBuB8gE (Production Video on YouTube) https://youtu.be/q1B_i8D9Szo?t=252 (Spanish Language YouTube Video Purporting 80% is 12 Years Old Rum) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicaragua (Wikipedia Article on Nicaragua) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicaraguan_Revolution (Wikipedia Article on Nicaraguan Revolution) https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2013/08/new-look-for-flor-de-cana-bottles/ (The Spirits Business Article on Packaging Update) https://www.bevnet.com/spirits/2022/flor-de-cana-rum-launches-global-campaign-to-plant-70000-trees-in-2022/ (Press Release on Tree Planting Campaign) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 102 features Patrón Silver Tequila. Boxed and bottled in a handmade glass bottle that's 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof and it retails for $50. Enjoy this episode with a neat pour of Patrón Tequila! The official website for Patrón: https://www.patrontequila.com/ (https://www.patrontequila.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1989 - John Paul Dejoria and Martin Crowley wonder what the aristocrats in Mexico drink, Martin Crowley finds it at Casa Sieta Leguas 1989 - John Paul Dejoria and Martin Crowley form the Patron Spirits Company, securing 100% of production from a distillery in Mexico, as well as the services of Francisco Alcaraz, who would become Master Distiller 1991 - Patrón hold a blind tasting event at Spago in West Hollywood with a celebrity guest list 2000 - Ed Brown is hired as CEO 2002 - Patrón begins setting up their own production facility, what would become Hacienda Patrón 2003 - Founder Martin Crowley dies, kicking off a 5 year legal battle for control of the brand 2006 - Patrón reaches 1 million 9-liter equivalent case sales 2008 - John Paul Dejoria acquires 70% of Patrón with Bacardi owning 30% 2012 - Patrón reachs 2 million 9-liter equivalent case sales 2018 - Bacardi buys John Paul Dejoria out of his stake in Patrón for $5.1 Billion USD 2020 - Case sales are 3.1 million Key Cocktails: Please try Patrón neat, then mix as you like in your favorite cocktails that call for tequila. References: The Patrón Way by Ilana Edelstein, published in 2013 with a forward by John Paul Dejoria https://youtu.be/D3LJcpBV36Y (John Paul Dejoria interview on YouTube) https://youtu.be/sG7_iVo1aqQ (Ilana Edelstein interview on YouTube) https://www.mercurynews.com/2017/10/14/the-personal-drama-behind-one-of-patron-tequilas-founders/ (Mercury News article from 2017 on the founders of Patrón) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patr%C3%B3n (Wikipedia Article on Patrón) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Paul_DeJoria (Wikipedia Article on John Paul Dejoria) https://www.statista.com/statistics/311758/patron-tequila-global-sales-volume (Statista Global Sales Information) https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnmccarthy12/2017/08/15/the-truth-behind-patrons-tequila-empire/ (Forbes article "The Truth Behind Patrón's Tequila Empire) (may require subscription) https://www.bacardilimited.com/media/news-archive/bacardi-acquire-patron-tequila/ (Bacardi Press Release on Purchase of Patrón) https://youtu.be/3ngId1AZ0TI (Business Insider Video on How Patrón is Made) https://youtu.be/_5RYyDdjrrs (Patrón YouTube Video on "60 Hands") Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 101 features Old Elk Distillery. Five different bottlings are noted, with a tasting from the Blended Straight Bourbon Whiskey that is bottled in 750ml at 44% ABV, or 88 proof and it retails for $45. Enjoy this episode with a neat pour of any Old Elk product! The official website for Old Elk: https://www.oldelk.com/ (https://www.oldelk.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1880 - Brand is originally created 1888 - Old Elk Trademark is registered by Stoll, Vanatta & Co Prohibition Years - Old Elk is produced by Stitzel Distillery as a "medicinal spirit" Post Prohibition - Stitzel-Weller Distillery continues production of Old Elk, without the "medicinal" moniker 1972 - Brand is sold to Norton-Simon who abandons it 2013 - Entrepreneur Curt Richardson resurrects the Old Elk brand, acquiring the trademark 2013 - Greg Metze creates a custom mash bill for Old Elk's signature bourbon 2017 - Old Elk launches in Colorado and California 2021 - Annual sales of about $16 million Key Cocktails: Old Elk is perfect neat, right out of the bottle. You can mix it or chill it if you like. References: Most of the content for this episode came from an interview and tasting conducted with Greg Metze, Master Distiller for Old Elk. https://www.mgpingredients.com/ (MGP Ingredients) https://bourbonveach.com/2020/07/15/tasting-notes-old-elk-blended-straight-bourbon/ (Early Brand History from Bourbon Veach) https://www.gearpatrol.com/food/drinks/a703762/the-greatest-whiskey-maker-youve-never-heard-of-is-finally-getting-his-due/ (Article on Greg Metze from Gear Patrol) https://bourbonlens.com/101-old-elk-distillery/ (Bourbon Lens Overview of Old Elk Distillery) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 100 features Gran Centenario Añejo Tequila. Bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof and it retails for $36. Enjoy this episode with a neat pour of Gran Centenario! The official website for Gran Centenario: https://grancentenario.com/ (https://grancentenario.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1857 - Tavern owner and tequila producer Lázaro Gallardo starts making what will become Gran Centenario 1895 - Gallardo names his tequila Gran Centenario to commemorate the new century and the coming 100th anniversary of Mexican independence 1920 - Luciano Gallardo, the founder's son, designs art deco inspired bottles and begins selling Gran Centenario beyond the tavern 1995(?) - Becle, the parent company of Jose Cuervo, acquires Gran Centenario (may have been much earlier) Today - Gran Centenario is the best selling tequila in Mexico Key Cocktails: Gran Centenario Añejo makes for a great sipper, but give their signature cocktail a try if you like. Golden Angel 1.5 parts Gran Centenario® Añejo 1 part Pressed Ginger 1 part Fresh Lemon Juice 1 part Fresh Lime Juice 3⁄4 part Agave Nectar Dash of Kosher Salt Garnish with wedges of fresh Lemon and Lime References: https://proximospirits.com/brands/tequila/gran-centenario/ (Proximo Spirits, the US Importer of Gran Centenario) https://www.tequilasource.com/grancentenario/index.html (Tequila Source Listing) https://www.forbes.com/sites/joemicallef/2021/05/20/why-you-should-rediscover-centenario-tequila/ (Forbes Article on Gran Centenario) https://tequilamatchmaker.com/tequilas/2592-gran-centenario-anejo (Tequila Matchmaker Listing) https://youtu.be/s1w3GGBE5LM (YouTube Review) (in Spanish) https://seekingalpha.com/article/4358051-becle-worlds-largest-tequila-producer-stretched-valuations (Becle Financial Overview with Sales Insight) https://trademarks.justia.com/746/42/gran-centenario-74642792.html (Trademark Listing for Gran Centenario) https://www.cuervo.com.mx/documents/informes-anuales/2018/Mexican%20Stock%20Exchange%20Annual%20Report%202018.pdf (Cuervo 2018 Annual Report) https://www.mashed.com/408211/what-does-a-tequilas-nom-mean-and-why-does-it-matter/ (Mashed.com Article on Tequila NOM Meaning) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 99 features 99 Bananas. Bottled in 50ml at 49.5% ABV, or 99 proof and it retails for $0.99. Enjoy this episode with a shot of 99 Bananas! The official website for 99 Bananas: https://99brandparty.com/ (https://99brandparty.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1997 - Barton Brands introduces 99 Bananas 2009 - Sazerac Company acquires Barton Brands and 99 Bananas Today - The brand has expanded to more than two dozen flavors Key Cocktails: Shots! 99 Bananas is meant to get you to a good time quickly. References: https://web.archive.org/web/20020915015108fw_/http://99bananas.com/FMPro?-db=liq.fp5&-format=barton/record_detail.htm&-lay=main&-recid=6&-findall= (Barton Brands Website Circa 2002) https://www.liquor.com/99-bananas-liqueur-review-5219217 (Liquor.com Review) https://www.sazerac.com/our-brands/sazerac-brands/99-brand.html (Sazerac Brand Listing) https://www.wideopeneats.com/99-bananas/ (Wide Open Eats Article on 99 Bananas) https://www.diffordsguide.com/encyclopedia/3384/cocktails/20-best-creme-de-banane-banana-liqueur-cocktails (Diffords Guide Listing for Creme de Banane) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schnapps (Wikipedia Listing for Schnapps) https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/tempus-fugit-spirits-introduces-historically-inspired-creme-de-banane-300679241.html#:~:text=Continue%20Reading-,Hotaling%20%26%20Co.,by%20ship%20from%20distant%20colonies. (Press Release Mentioning Introduction of Banana Liqueurs) https://youtu.be/VjEAy8hshkE (YouTube Product Comparison from 2007) https://youtu.be/POjzPMxs1x0 (Hip Hop Song from 2010 on YouTube) A bit NSFW https://youtu.be/A53Dly0M1U0 (Hip Hop Song from 2012 on YouTube) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 98 features Liquore Strega. Bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof and it retails for $66. Enjoy this episode with pour of Strega chilled. The official website for Strega: https://www.strega.it/en/ (https://www.strega.it/en/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1200s - Legend says witches gathered in Benevento, Italy 1860 - Strega is founded by Giuseppe Alberti 1894 - Giuseppe Alberti dies, leaving the distillery to his four sons 1900s - The brand invests in advertisings 1947 - The Premio Strega, or Strega Prize, is created by Guido Alberti 1998 - Strega gets into the confections business, with candies that feature Strega Today - The fifth generation of the Alberti family is still running the company Key Cocktails: Strega is a digestif, or after drinker drink, but mixes well with certain drinks. Try the Strega Tonic: 1 oz. Strega 1 oz. Gin 4 oz. tonic water Serve over ice References: https://www.thespruceeats.com/strega-liqueur-profile-and-cocktails-760262 (The Spruce Eats Article on Strega) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strega_(liqueur) (Wikipedia Article on Strega) https://www.diffordsguide.com/beer-wine-spirits/161/liquore-strega (Diffords Guide Listing of Strega) https://punchdrink.com/articles/what-is-strega-cocktail-recipes-history/ (Punch Drink Article on Strega) https://youtu.be/pTVr_DCrbUk (YouTube Brand Commercial) https://youtu.be/pTVr_DCrbUk (YouTube Video of Distillery Tour with Vintage Advertising Shown) YouTube Overview - Fast Paced, and in Italian https://youtu.be/RW0CIR2GUL8 (YouTube Candy Making Overview) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Witches_of_Benevento (Wikipedia Article on the Witches of Benevento) https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/why-do-witches-ride-brooms (Atlas Obscura Article on Why Witches Ride Brooms) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 97 features Wray & Nephew White Overproof Rum. Bottled in 750ml at 63% ABV, or 126 proof and it retails for $26. Enjoy this episode with a "Wray & Ting". The official website for the brand simply redirects to the corporate parent: http://www.jwrayandnephew.com/ (http://www.jwrayandnephew.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1825 - John Wray founds The Shakespeare Tavern in Kingston, Jamaica 1860 - John. Wray brings his nephew, Charles James Ward into the business 1862 - J. Wray & Nephew Ltd. is formed 1862 - The brand wins gold medals for their aged rums in London 1901 - J. Wray & Nephew acquires the Monymusk Estate 1913 - Charles Ward dies, leaving the business to trustees 1916 - Lindo Brothers & Co. purchases the company from the trustees 1917 - Distillery operations move to the recently acquired Appleton Estate 1940s - This overproof bottling was likely introduced 1997 - Joy Spence is appointed Master Blender 2012 - Gruppo Campari buys J. Wray & Nephew Ltd. Key Cocktails: This rum is great for mixing and stands up in a cocktail. A popular serve is the "Wray & Ting". 1 Part Wray & Nephew Overproof Rum 2 Parts Ting or Smilar Grapefruit Soda Serve over ice References: https://www.camparigroup.com/en/news/2019-12-31/j-wray-nephew-limited (Campari's Brand Listing) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J._Wray_and_Nephew_Ltd. (Wikipedia Article on j. Wray & Nephew Ltd.) https://www.liquor.com/wray-and-nephew-white-overproof-rum-review-5219198 (Liquor.com Review) https://youtu.be/juAtCzQeiqU (YouTube Video Discussing the Campari Acquisition Circa 2015) https://youtu.be/KbSFjfbH_RU (Steve The Barman on YouTube, Features Wray & Nephew Overproof Rum) https://youtu.be/vbG6eeUYQZw (Long Presentation on Production at Appleton Estate, by J. Wray & Nephew) https://youtu.be/scktzwqHpSc (Good Tasting & Review on YouTube) https://youtu.be/WR4lO3r9qrU (Another Good Tasting & Review on YouTube) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 96 features The Kraken Black Spiced Rum. Bottled in 750ml at 47% ABV, or 94 proof and it retails for $2. Enjoy this episode with a Kraken and Coke. The Kraken's official website: https://www.krakenrum.com/ (https://www.krakenrum.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 2009 - The Kraken is available in limited release in the United States 2010 - The Kraken expands distribution internationally 2010 - Several awards are bestowed upon The Kraken for exceptional branding & packaging 2020 - Sales reach 510,000 9-liter equivalent cases Key Cocktails: The Kraken is made for mixing, try it in a Kraken & Coke. References: https://proximospirits.com/brands/rum/kraken/ (Proximo Spirits Listing for The Kraken) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giant_squid (Wikipedia Article on the Giant Squid) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kraken_Rum (Wikipedia Article on The Kraken Rum) https://www.drinkhacker.com/2009/11/03/review-the-kraken-black-spiced-rum/ (Drink Hacker Review from 2009) https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2010/05/winners-of-the-drinks-business-awards-2010/ (The Drinks Business 2010 Awards List) https://youtu.be/VXpJA47EOy4 (YouTube Acceptance of the 2010 Clear Choice Award) https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2011/03/rum-delights-in-record-haul/ (The Spirits Business Reference in 2011) https://www.barandrestaurant.com/operations/kraken-black-spiced-rum-released-upon-nation (Press Release from 2011) https://www.marketingdive.com/ex/mobilemarketer/cms/news/content/9329.html (Article on the Mobile Game in 2011) https://twitter.com/krakenrum/status/736266856550522886?lang=en (Tweet from the Brand Referencing Sugar Content) https://www.liquor.com/the-kraken-black-spiced-rum-review-5219194 (Liquor.com Listing) https://thefatrumpirate.com/the-kraken-black-spiced-rum (The Fat Pirate Rum Feature on The Kraken) https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2010/03/sailor-jerry-faces-fans-backlash/ (Sailor Jerry's Recipe Change Coverage) https://www.statista.com/statistics/463980/us-leading-brands-of-rum-volume-sales/ (Global Sales Stats from Statista.com) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 95 features Tanqueray London Dry Gin. Bottled in 750ml at 47.3% ABV, or 94.6 proof and it retails for $22. Enjoy this episode with a Tanqueray and Tonic. Tanqueray's official website: https://www.tanqueray.com/ (https://www.tanqueray.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1830 - Charles Tanqueray begins working in the Vine Street Distillery 1898 - Tanqueray merges with Gordon's Gin 1922 - Tanqueray Gordon & Company join Distillers Company 1933 - Tanqueray is the first alcohol served in the White House after Prohibition was repealed WWII - The distillery is bombed 1957 - Distillery is rebuilt and reopened with their famous pot still named "Old Tom" 1960s - The Rat Pack drinks so much Tanqueray they double sales in the USA 1979 - Tanqueray sales hit 1 million cases 1995 - Tanqueray production moves to Scotland 2016 - Tanqueray becomes the best selling gin in the USA 2019 - Global sales peak at 4.5 million 9-liter equivalent cases 2022 - Drinks International names Tanqueray the #1 best selling gin brand worldwide Key Cocktails: Enjoy Tanqueray in a classic Gin & Tonic or Martini. References: https://youtu.be/5u_ma7BRFc0 (Behind the Scenes Video - Part One) https://youtu.be/DswESndy6j0 (Behind the Scenes Video - Part Two) https://youtu.be/-b1eArddxwI (Behind the Scenes Video - Part Three) https://youtu.be/6TYnSM2UkVc (Behind the Scenes Video - Part Four) https://youtu.be/qtpzOGM2vT4 (Distillery Tour Video) https://youtu.be/dw5y_idGMMs (Visit to the Diageo Archives) https://youtu.be/gHjhAvQZplE (Additional Video Coverage of Tanqueray) https://www.diageobaracademy.com/en_zz/know-your-liquid/our-brands/tanqueray-gin/ (Diageo Bar Academy) https://www.burn-blog.com/8554/meet-charles-tanqueray-history-in-a-bottle/ (Charles Tanqueray History Blog) https://www.diffordsguide.com/producers/1116/cameronbridge-gin-distillery/history (Diffords Guide Listing on Tanqueray) https://vinepair.com/articles/tanqueray-gin-guide-review/ (VinePair Article on Tanqueray) https://www.traveldistilled.com/history-of-tanqueray-gin/ (Travel Distilled Article on Tanqueray) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tanqueray (Wikipedia Article on Tanqueray) https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2017/03/tanqueray-a-brand-history/ (Tanqueray Brand History on The Spirits Business) https://www.statista.com/statistics/308834/tanqueray-gin-global-sales-volume/ (Statista Global Sales Data) https://drinksint.com/news/fullstory.php/aid/9857/Brands_Report_2022:_Gin.html (Drinks International 2022 Gin Brands Report) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 94 features Italicus Rosolio Di Bergamotto by popular request from listeners. Bottled in 750ml at 20% ABV, or 40 proof and it retails for $40. Enjoy some Italicus with Prosecco and a lot of ice, plus some olives while listening to this episode. Italicus' official website: https://rosolioitalicus.com/ (https://rosolioitalicus.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1500s - Rosolio was enjoyed by Catherine de' Medici Late 1700s - The 17th Duke of Savoy, Vittorio Amedeo III, banned Rosolio from his household and switched to vermouth, which he preferred Early 2000s - Giuseppe Gallo, founder of Italicus, comes across a recipe for Rosolio di Torino 2106 - Italicus is launched 2017 - Italicus wins Best New Spirit 2017 at Tales of the Cocktail's Spirited Awards 2019/20 - Drinks International recognized Italicus as a top-trending brand 2020 - Partnership with Pernod Ricard announced 2021 - Italicus is available in more than 40 countries and had sales of $5 Million USD Key Cocktails: Italicus was designed to go with bubbles. The suggested serve from the bottle is: 1 part Italicus 1 part Prosecco Lots of Ice Green Olives Build in a wine glass and enjoy. References: https://italspirits.com/italicus-rosolio-di-bergamotto/ (ItalSpirits) https://www.capri.com/en/s/la-grotta-azzurra (The Blue Grotto) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosolio (Wikipedia Article on Rosolio) https://talesofthecocktail.org/products/new-italian-spirit-reviving-long-lost-category/ (Tales of the Cocktail Article on Italicus) https://www.masterofmalt.com/blog/post/a-closer-look-at-italicus-rosolio-di-bergamotto.aspx (Master of Malt Article on Italicus) https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200311005834/en (Press Release on Partnership with Pernod Ricard) https://magazine.winerist.com/drink/what-is-italicus-rosolio-di-bergamotto (Winerist Article on Italicus) https://www.foodandwine.com/cocktails-spirits/new-amaro-recreates-historic-liqueur (Food And Wine Article on Italicus) https://www.saveur.com/italicus-rosolio-liqueur/ (Saveur Article on Italicus) https://www.diffordsguide.com/beer-wine-spirits/category/1194/bergamot-liqueurs (Diffords Guide Article on Bergamot Liqueurs) https://casamiatours.com/italicus-liqueur/ (Casa Mia Tours Article on Italicus) https://www.parkstreet.com/startup-spotlight-giuseppe-gallo-founder-and-ceo-of-italicus/ (Startup Spotlight on Giuseppe Gallo) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 93 features Rockland Old Arrack Extra Strong from Sri Lanka. The small bottle came to me as a gift from a friend in his luggage following a trip to Sri Lanka. Bottled in 180ml at 34% ABV, or 68 proof and it retails for about $2 at this size. If you can find Arrack, enjoy some while listening to this episode! Old Arrack Extra Strong's official website: https://www.rockland.lk/ (https://www.rockland.lk/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1924 - The Rockland Distillery is founded 2022 - I get a small bootle of Old Arrack Extra Strong to try! Key Cocktails: I suggest it be enjoyed it neat, but Rockland suggests on their website the following signature serve: ARRACK TABILE 50 ml Extra Strong Old Arrack 100 ml king coconut water 15 ml lime juice 20 ml sugar syrup coconut flack Add all the ingredients in the Shaker, shake well and strain into a tall glass. References: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arrack (Wikipedia Article on Arrack) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_Lanka (Wikipedia Article on Sri Lanka) https://www.wise-geek.com/what-is-arrack.htm (What is Arrack?) https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-47782568 (BBC Article on how Arrack is Going Up Market) https://youtu.be/fGqL_-U2m4U (Tody Tapping Video In English) https://youtu.be/M8hiX6mvg8k (YouTube on Rockland's Ceylon Arrack is Made) https://youtu.be/Grlgvf7DWHs (YouTube on Rockland's Ceylon Arrack Brand) https://youtu.be/Q9BOcyxiHeg (YouTube on Old Arrack - in Sinhala)

Episode 92 features Appleton Estate Signature Jamaica Rum. The entry level blend from the Appleton Estate is bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof and it retails for $23. Enjoy this episode with some Appleton Estate Signature mixes in your favorite rum cocktail. Appleton Estate's official website: https://appletonestate.com/ (https://appletonestate.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1655 - The Appleton Estate is established 1749 - Rum is first distilled at Appleton Estate 1825 - J. Wray & Nephew gets it's start with John Wray founding the Shakespeare Tavern 1916 - Lindo Brothers & Co. purchase J. Wray & Nephew, then purchase the Appleton Estate 1944 - The first Appleton Estate branded rum is introduced 1997 - Joy Spence is appointed Master Blender, making her the first female Master Blender in the industry 2002 - Appleton Estate breaks the 1 million 9-liter equivalent case barrier 2018 - Campari Group acquires J. Wray & Nephew, along with Appleton Estate Key Cocktails: This Signature blend of Appeton Estate is recommended to be enjoyed in a rum cocktail, but I enjoy it neat. References: https://www.pilotguides.com/articles/a-short-history-of-slavery-and-sugar-cane-in-jamaica/ (Short History of Sugarcane in Jamaica) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J._Wray_and_Nephew_Ltd. (Wikipedia Article on J. Wray & Nephew) https://cocktailwonk.com/2020/12/illustrated-informal-jwray-timeline.html (Cocktail Wonk History of J. Wray & Nephew) https://youtu.be/HKvE0j8ACco (YouTube Interview on Appleton Estate) https://www.camparigroup.com/en/pages/brands (Campari Group Listing for Appleton Estate) https://www.jamaicatravelandculture.com/destinations/st_elizabeth/appleton-rum-estate.htm (Jamaica Travel Article on Appleton Estate) https://www.jaimemontilla.com/appleton (Jaime Montilla Appleton Estate Reference) https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2018/07/appleton-estate-a-brand-history/ (The Spirits Business Appleton Estate Brand History) https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2015/04/campari-unveils-appleton-estate-rum-rebranding/ (The Spirits Business 2015 Rebrand Article) https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2020/04/appleton-estate-unveils-brand-refresh-and-new-8yo-rum/ (The Spirits Business 2020 Rebrand Article) Alcademics Article on Appleton Estate Distillery Tour https://www.rumrevelations.com/post/velier-long-pond-2003-teca-duncan-taylor-long-pond-2000-review-jamaica-gi-at-risk (Rum Revelations Article on Jamaica GI) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 91 features Bushmills The Original Irish Whisky. The entry level bottling from the first licensed whisky distillery in the world, bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof and it retails for $30. Enjoy this episode with some Bushmills neat. Bushmills' official website: https://bushmills.com/ (https://bushmills.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1276 - Written record of whisky production in northern Ireland 1608 - Whisky distilling license is signed by King Phillip I 1784 - The Old Bushmills Distillery Company is formed by Hugh Anderson 1860 - Distillery is purchased by James McColgan and Patrick Corrigan 1885 - Fire destroys the distillery, but it's rebuilt 1890 - The SS Bushmills steamship embarks on a voyage to America 1972 - Bushmills joins Irish Distillers Ltd. 1988 - Pernod Ricard purchases Irish Distillers Ltd. 2005 - Bushmills is sold to Diageo 2008 - The Bank of Ireland commemorates the 400th anniversary of the distillery license by featuring the Old Bushmills distillery on the revers of the £20 note 2014 - Bushmills is traded to Jose Cuervo for 50% of Don Julio 2020 - Bushmills is the third most popular Irish Whisky by sales, selling just shy of 745,000 9-liter equivalent cases Key Cocktails: Bushmills is perfect on its own, but also can be mixed. Drink it like you would any whisky you enjoy. References: https://youtu.be/SNNVcRtpAW0 (YouTube Origin of Bushmills) https://youtu.be/dgRFlHny2kg (YouTube on the Original Single Malt) https://youtu.be/fl3dnMDw7qU (YouTube Tasting of The Original) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Old_Bushmills_Distillery (Wikipedia Article on the Old Bushmills Distillery) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bushmills (Wikipedia Article on Bushmills (the village)) https://vinepair.com/articles/bushmills-is-the-irish-whiskey-this-st-patricks-day/ (Vinepair Article on Bushmills) https://goodfoodireland.ie/blog/the-history-of-bushmills-whiskey/ (Good Food Ireland Article on Bushmills) https://whiskymag.com/story/journey-from-hell-to-reach-whisky-heaven-bushmills (Whiskymag Article on a Visit to Bushmills) https://www.irishtimes.com/business/agribusiness-and-food/irish-whiskey-sector-poised-to-rebound-after-dip-in-sales-1.4580223 (Irish Times Article with Sales Figures) https://www.alcademics.com/2014/01/distillery-visit-bushmills-in-ireland.html (Alcademics Bushmills Distillery Tour) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 90 features PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur. The leading pomegranate brand of spirit bottled in 750ml at 17% ABV, or 34 proof and it retails for $25. Enjoy this episode with some PAMA and Champagne. PAMA's official website: https://www.pamaliqueur.com/ (https://www.pamaliqueur.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 2005 - PAMA is test marketed 2006 - Nationwide US release 2007 - Advertising campaign featuring magazine ads with scent strips helps propel PAMA to 60,000 9-liter equivalent case sales 2020 - Packaging is updated for the brand's 15th anniversary Key Cocktails: PAMA works very well as a modifier to existing cocktail recipes. Treat it much like you would Chambord or St-Germain. Cocktail recipes are available widely, and on the PAMA website. References: https://www.heavenhill.com/brands-detail.php?brandid=pama-liqueur (Heaven Hill Brands Listing) https://web.archive.org/web/20040616115544/http://www.heaven-hill.com/ourbrands.html (Heaven Hill Brands Website Circa 2006 from the Wayback Machine) https://web.archive.org/web/20070624093747/http://www.heaven-hill.com/pr-archives.shtml?article=NDQ5NnN1cGVyNDQ5M3NlY3JldDQ1MDA%3D (Launch Press Release) https://web.archive.org/web/20070811233926/http://www.heaven-hill.com/pr-recent.shtml?article=NjQ5NXN1cGVyNjQ5MnNlY3JldDY0OTk%3D (First Ad Campaign Press Release) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PAMA_%28liqueur%29 (Wikipedia Article on PAMA) https://www.thespruceeats.com/pama-pomegranate-liqueur-760279 (The Spruce Eats Article on PAMA) https://spiritsreview.com/reviews/pama-pomegranate/ (Spirits Review of PAMA) https://beveragedynamics.com/2008/10/27/growth-brands/ (Beverage Dynamics Growth Brands Circa 2008) https://www.drinkspirits.com/liqueur/pama-pomegranate-liqueur-review/ (Drink Spirits Review of PAMA) https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2020/07/pama-pomegranate-liqueur-unveils-new-design/ (The Spirits Business on New Packaging) https://www.alcademics.com/2012/12/the-history-of-grenadine-use-in-cocktails.html (Alcademics Blog on the History of Grenadine in Cocktails) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 89 features Mount Gay Barbados Rum, the XO expression. From the birthplace of rum, Barbados, this rum is aged between 5 and 17 years, and bottled in 750ml at 43% ABV, or 86 and it retails for $65. Enjoy this episode with a pour of Mount Gay XO neat. Mount Gay's official website: https://www.mountgayrum.com/ (https://www.mountgayrum.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1637 - Sugar cane is introduced to the island of Barbados 1703 - A deed of title noting commercial rum distillation on the plantation that became Mount Gay is produced. 1747 - John Sober buys the plantation and hires Sir John Gay Alleyne to manage it. 1801 - Sir John Gay Alleyne dies, but impressed the Sober family so much, they rename the plantation in his honor (there was already a Mount Alleyne, so they used his middle name) 1897 - Mount Gay Rum is singled out as one of the best rums in Barbados 1900s - Aubrey Ward purchases Mount Gay and consolidates it with other sugar cane plantations 1920s - Blending and bottling come under the control of new company Mount Gay Distilleries Ltd. 1948 - Aubrey Ward dies, leaving the Mount Gay holdings to his children 1980 - 60% of Mount Gay Distilleries Ltd. is sold 1989 - Rémy Cointreau buys the 60% stake in Mount Gay Distilleries Ltd. 2014 - Rémy Cointreau buys controlling interest in Rum Refinery of Mount Gay and the Oxford plantation adjacent to the distillery 2015 - Rémy Cointreau buys the Mount Gay Plantation land for $4.9 million 2019 - Trudiann Branker becomes the first female Master Blender for Mount Gay Key Cocktails: Just drink it neat, or with one large coconut water cube of ice. References: https://www.remy-cointreau.com/en/brands/mount-gay/ (Rémy Cointreau Group Brand Listing) https://cocktailwonk.com/2018/12/barbados-rum-cheat-sheet.html (Cocktail Wonk Barbados Rum Cheat Sheet) https://cocktailwonk.com/2019/01/mount-gay-cornerstone-of-caribbean-rum.html (Cocktail Wonk Mount Gay Rum Article) https://youtu.be/Ci3HrS4mSMo (YouTube Video Featuring Trudiann Branker) https://youtu.be/WJ9--bMdVJg (YouTube Animated Brand Story) https://youtu.be/jWO3TCUYzKY (YouTube Taste the Islands Video) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Gay_Rum (Wikipedia Article on Mount Gay Rum) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Barbados (Wikipedia Article on History of Barbados) https://www.isosugar.org/sugarsector/by-products (International Sugar Organization Article on Molasses) https://vinepair.com/articles/mount-gay-rum-guide-barbados/ (Vine Pair 9 Things to Know About Mount Gay Rum) https://www.diffordsguide.com/producers/84/mount-gay-rum-distilleries-ltd (Diffords Guide Listing) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 88 features Mad March Hare Irish Poitín. And what is Poitín you ask? Well, listen to find out, but it might be described via analogy: Poitín is to Irish Whiskey as Mezcal is to Tequila. The bottle for the tasting is 700mL at 40% ABV, or 80 proof and sells for about $30. Enjoy this episode with a Mad March Mule (recipe below). Mad March Hare's official website: https://shopmadmarchhare.com/ (https://shopmadmarchhare.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 6th Century - Monks bring distillation from the Middle East to Ireland and begin distilling the earliest version of Poitín 1661 - Poitín is outlawed by King Charles II 1987 - Regulations are loosed to allow Poitín production for export (from Ireland) 1997 - Poitín is fully legalized 2008 - Poitín received a Geographical Indication (GI) status by the European Union 2014 - John Ralph, founder of Mad March Hare, comes up with the brand name 2015 - Poitín has production methods codified by the Irish government 2016 - Mad March Hare launches 2016 - Mad March Hare wins Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition Key Cocktails: Mad March Hare is mixable, but also good when consumed neat. Give this cocktail a try: Mad March Mule 1 oz Mad March Hare Poitín 2 oz Ginger Beer ½ fresh Lime 2 dashes of Angostura bitters Topped with ice References: My thanks to John Ralph, founder and CEO of Intrepid Spirits, the maker of Mad March Hare, for speaking with me for this episode, and for providing the bottle for the tasting. https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/blog/2019/03/why-do-hares-box (The Woodland Trust on Why Do Hares Box) https://www.ajc.com/blog/atlanta-restaurants/toast-something-different/A3YcrxwOf9f9VCdAzS9jUM/ (The Atlantic Journal-Constitution Article Featuring Mad March Hare) https://www.winemag.com/2018/12/06/irish-poitin-moonshine/ (Wine Enthusiast Article on Poitín) https://theculturetrip.com/europe/ireland/articles/everything-you-need-to-know-about-poitin-irish-moonshine/ (Culture Trip Article on Poitín) https://www.diffordsguide.com/beer-wine-spirits/category/538/poteens-poitins (Difford's Guide Listing for Poitín) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 87 features Zacapa Rum, full name of Ron Zacapa Centenario Sistema Solera 23. Hailing from Guatemala, this special rum is aged between 6 and 23 years using a solera system, and bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 and it retails for $45. Enjoy this episode with a pour of Zacapa neat. Zacapa's official website: https://www.zacaparum.com/ (https://www.zacaparum.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1940s - Four Guatemalan liquor producers join forces to form Industrias Licoreras de Guatemala 1960s - Dr. Alejandro Burgaleta begins working in quality control for Industrias Licoreras de Guatemala 1970s - A "diligent" auditor writes off old spirits stock and suggests they be dumped in the river 1976 - Zacapa is launched to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the town of Zacapa 1980s - Lorena Vásquez, current Master Blender, joins Zacapa 2004 - The bottle design is changed to feature only a band of Petate weaving 2008 - Diageo enters into a 3 year distribution and joint marketing deal with an option to purchase a 50% stake in the brand 2011 - Diageo buys a 50% stake in Zacapa for a rumored $100 Million 2015 - Packaging is further refined to the current version Key Cocktails: Just drink it neat, one large cube of ice if you must. References: https://www.diageobaracademy.com/en_zz/know-your-liquid/our-brands/zacapa/ (Diageo Bar Academy Listing) https://elperiodico.com.gt/opinion/opiniones-de-hoy/2020/12/16/dr-alejandro-burgaleta/ (History of Zacapa's Founder and Genesis of the Rum) (Spanish language and requires free account) https://www.olivemagazine.com/drink/ron-zacapa-the-story-behind-the-iconic-guatemalan-rum/ (Olive Magazine Article) https://exploredrinks.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-ron-zacapa/ (What You Need to Know About Ron Zacapa) https://refinedvices.com/ron-zacapa-the-evolution-of-the-packaging (Evolution of the Packaging) https://vinepair.com/articles/ron-zacapa-rum-guide/ (VinePair Article on Zacapa) https://www.revoluciondecuba.com/blog/zacapa-rum-hidden-story-house-clouds/ (House Above The Clouds Article) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ron_Zacapa_Centenario (Wikipedia Article on Zacapa) https://www.foodingredientsfirst.com/news/diageo-signs-global-distribution-agreement-for-zacapa-centenario-rum.html (Diageo Signs Distribution Deal) https://www.reuters.com/article/diageo-rum/diageo-buys-half-of-zacapa-for-est-100-mln-plus-idUSLDE75C0S920110613 (Diageo Buys 50% of Zacapa) https://www.forcemajeure.design/project/brand-world-3 (Force Majeure Project Listing for Zacapa Redesign) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 86 features Pusser's Rum, the official British Navy rum. The Blue Label used in the tasting for this episode is bottled in 750ml at 42% ABV, or 84 proof for the US market, and it retails for $27. Enjoy this episode with a Pusser's Painkiller®. Pusser's Rum official website: https://pussersrum.com/ (https://pussersrum.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1655 - The British capture Jamaica from the Spanish 1731 - British Naval regulations define a sailor's ration of rum to be 1/2 pint, twice a day 1740 - Admiral Edward Vernon, "Old Grog", decrees that the ration should be diluted with water, becoming what's known as Grog 1756 - Grog becomes the official way to serve the sailor's rum ration, referred to as a tot 1824 - The tot is reduced to a quarter pint of rum 1850 - the tot is reduced to an eighth of a pint of rum 1970 - The British stop providing rum to sailors in what's known as Black Tot Day, July 31st 1976 - Charles Tobias has his first drink of original naval rum and is gifted a demijohn of it 1979 - Charles Tobias is gifted Pusser's Rum from the British Navy 1980 - Pusser's Rum becomes commercially available 1990 - Pusser's Rum is sold to Jim Beam 2002 - Charles Tobias and Jim Jackson purchase Pusser's Rum back from Jim Beam 2013 - Headquarters is moved to Charleston, South Carolina, USA 2021 - Record breaking sales year for the brand Key Cocktails: Pusser's is one of a few brands with a trademark on their signature cocktail. Painkiller® 2 oz. (60 ml) Pusser's Rum 4 oz. (120 ml) pineapple juice 1 oz. (30 ml) orange juice 1 oz. (30 ml) cream of coconut Freshly grated nutmeg for garnish. Shake all ingredients with ice, pour into a big glass filled with ice, garnish and enjoy! References: https://youtu.be/4eswMosMToA (History of The Pusser's Painkiller® and Pusser's Rum on YouTube) https://youtu.be/egcWjlRlmsA (Interview with Charles Tobias) https://cocktailwonk.com/2020/07/charles-tobias-part-one.html (Cocktail Wonk Interview with Charles Tobias, Part One) https://cocktailwonk.com/2020/07/charles-tobias-part-two.html (Cocktail Wonk Interview with Charles Tobias, Part Two) https://therumlab.com/rum-connoisseur-interview-of-the-week-gary-l-rogalski-president-ceo-pussers-rum-ltd/ (The Rum Lab Interview with Pusser's CEO Gary Rogalski) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pusser%27s (Wikipedia Article on Pusser's Rum) https://youtu.be/D7NiejyP-vA (YouTube Message from Charles Tobias) https://www.diffordsguide.com/producers/80/pussers-west-indies-ltd (Difford's Guide Listing on Pusser's Rum) Book: A Rum Tale by Joseph Piercy Page Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 85 features Amaro Montenegro, a top selling Amaro which is bottled in 750ml at 23% ABV, or 46 proof, and it retails for $40. Enjoy this episode with some Amaro Montenegro neat. Amaro Montenegro's official website: https://www.amaromontenegro.com/en/#ProductionProcess (https://www.amaromontenegro.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1885 - Distillery is founded by Stanisalo Cobianchi and Elisir Lungavita is launched 1896 - Elisir Lungavita is renamed Amaro Montenegro in honor of Princess Elena of Montenegro on the occasion of her wedding to Prince Victor Emmanuel III of Italy 1921 - Famed Italian poet and war hero Gabriele D'Annunzio declares Amaro Montenegro the "Liqueur of Virtues" 2018 - First major packaging update in decades makes the bottle slimmer and easier to pour from Key Cocktails: Like most amaro, you can enjoy it neat or on the rocks. References: https://amaromontenegro.us/our-story/ (Amaro Montenegro's US Website) https://gruppomontenegro.com/en/ (Gruppo Montenegro) https://youtu.be/tsGMkHjgMVg (Amaro Montenegro Product Story - Chapter One) https://youtu.be/lwFhWeMKsfY (Amaro Montenegro Product Story - Chapter Two) https://youtu.be/fK2YnDJa_Qg (Amaro Montenegro Product Story - Chapter Three) https://youtu.be/bJXVlBFCccY (The Revelation - Short Film ) https://vinepair.com/articles/amaro-montenegro-distillery-tour/ (Vinepair Article - Tour of Tremano Production Plant) https://www.diffordsguide.com/producer/1167/amaro-montenegro/story (Difford's Guide Listing) https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/amaro-montenegro-unveils-new-global-packaging-redesign-at-bar-convent-brooklyn-2018-300665273.html (New Packaging Announcement) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gabriele_D%27Annunzio (Wikipedia Listing on Gabrile D'Annunzio) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 84 features Highland Park Magnus Single Malt Scotch Whisky, which is bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof, and it retails for about $40. Enjoy this episode with a dram of Highland Park Magnus neat. Highland Park's official website: https://www.highlandparkwhisky.com/en/magnus (https://www.highlandparkwhisky.com) Brief Historical Timeline: 1798 - Local preacher and smuggler Magnus Eunson is arrested in the Orkney islands, in the far north of Scotland 1813 - A syndicate buys High Park and the distillery, buyers include the arresting officer 1818 - Highland Park is the name bestowed upon the distillery 1826 - The distillery gets a license to legally distill whisky 1979 - The first time whisky sold under the Highland Park name is bottled by the distillery 1999 - The Erdrington group acquires the distillery and brand 2012 - The brand pivots to a Viking theme 2017 - Magnus is launched Key Cocktails: Scotch whisky, especially a single malt like Highland Park Magnus, is really intended to be enjoyed neat, or perhaps with a bit of water. Enjoy it how you like! References: https://youtu.be/SzXjnTDyK4g (I F'ing Love Whisky Episode This Whisky Was Featured On)

Episode 83 features Ancho Reyes Liqueur which is bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof, and it retails for about $27. Enjoy this episode with a spicy margarita. Ancho Reye's official website: https://anchoreyes.com/ (https://anchoreyes.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1927 - Locally made Menjurje of Ancho Chiles is consumed in Puebla, Mexico 2013 - Ancho Reyes liqueur is launched 2016 - Ancho Reyes Verde is introduced 2017 - Sales reach about 40,000 cases 2019 - The Campari Group buys Ancho Reyes as part of a $35.7 million deal 2021 - Drinks International ranks Ancho Reyes as the 8th most popular liqueur Key Cocktails: Ancho Reyes is sweetened, and therefore can be used in place of other sweeteners in cocktails. Try this spicy margarita recipe from the back label: 1 oz. Ancho Reyes 1 oz. Tequila 0.75 oz. Fresh Lime Juice 0.5 oz. Light Agave Syrup Shake with ice, strain into a double rocks glass over ice, garnish with a lime wheel. References: https://www.casalumbre.com/ (Casa Lumbre) https://www.alcademics.com/2015/03/distillery-visit-ancho-reyes-ancho-chile-liqueur.html (Alcademics Distillery Tour, Circa 2015) https://www.weholden.com/work/ancho-reyes (Weholden Design Agency) https://www.bonvivants.com/bon-vivants/ (The Bon Vivants) https://drinksint.com/news/fullstory.php/aid/9309/Brands_Report_2021:_Liqueurs.html (Drinks International 2021 Brands Report) https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2019/10/campari-buys-majority-stake-in-montelobos-mezcal (Campari's Purchase of Ancho Reyes) https://www.oldliquorsmagazine.com/ancho-reyes-a-classic-1920s-redux/ (Old Liquors Magazine Article) https://www.vallartadaily.com/ancho-reyes-liquor-shouts-viva-mexico-world/ (Vallarta Daily Article on Ancho Reyes) https://punchdrink.com/articles/how-to-use-ancho-reyes-chile-liqueur-cocktail-recipes/ (Punch Drink Article on Ancho Reyes) https://medium.com/authority-magazine/ivan-saldana-of-casa-lumbre-5-things-you-should-do-to-become-a-thought-leader-in-your-industry-257777f1b4f5 (Authority Magazine Interview with Iván Saldaña) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 82 features St-Rémy VSOP French Brandy which is bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof, and it retails for about $17. Enjoy this episode with some St-Rémy neat or on the rocks. St-Rémy's official website: https://www.st-remy.com/ (https://www.st-remy.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1886 - Paul-Emile Rémy Martin II founds the distillery to produce high quality brandy 1917 - St-Rémy releases “Fine St-Rémy” 1949 - The distinctive black bottle is introduced 1980 - Napoleon VSOP version of St-Rémy is released 1990 - St-Rémy releases their XO bottling 2017 - Remy Cointreau Group invests in St-Rémy branding 2018 - Limited release Cash finished bottles are introduced 2020 - Sales are about 90,000 cases annually Key Cocktails: St-Rémy is best enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a simple brandy focused cocktail. References: https://www.remy-cointreau.com/en/brands/st-remy/ (Remy Cointreau Group Listing) https://blog.cognac-expert.com/st-remy-craft-brandy/ (Cognac Expert Blog Post) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phylloxera (Wikipedia Article on Phylloxera) https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2018/04/st-remy-brandy-relaunches-with-new-design/ (The Spirits Business Article on New Design) https://www.shankennewsdaily.com/index.php/2021/10/22/29704/remy-cointreau-sales-leap-52-in-fiscal-first-half/ (2020 - 2021 Sales Figures) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 81 features Jose Cuervo Especial, also known as Cuervo Gold, which is bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof, and it retails for about $20. Enjoy this episode with some Jose Cuervo Especial Gold in a Margarita or other tequila cocktail. Cuervo's official website: https://cuervo.com/ (https://cuervo.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1758 - Jose Antonio de Cuervo y Valdes was given a land grant by King Fernand VI to plant agave in Mexico 1795 - Jose Maria Guadalupe de Cuervo y Montana receives a license from King Carlos IV to produce tequila commercially, launching the tequila industry 1812 - La Rojeña, the distillery, is founded 1852 - The first Cuervo tequila makes its way to California 1880 - Cuervo wins a gold medal, and becomes the first tequila to be individually bottled 1900 - The brand "Jose Cuervo" is created 1945 - Jose Cuervo runs ads promoting the Margarita cocktail, featuring Cuervo 1970s - Tequila gains a designation of origin from Mexico, and the Rolling Stones drink a lot of Cuervo in Tequila Sunrise cocktails 1989 - The family sells 49% of the company to a predecessor of Diageo 2017 - Jose Cuervo becomes publicly traded on the Mexican stock market through an IPO of the parent company Becle SA de CV Key Cocktails: Try a Margarita, or do a shot, or go back to the disco era and try this: Tequila Sunrise 1.5 oz. Jose Cuervo Especial Gold 3 oz. Orange Juice .5 oz. Grenadine Pour over ice, garnish with a cherry and orange slice. References: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jose_Cuervo (Wikipedia Article on Jose Cuervo) https://vinepair.com/articles/13-things-to-know-jose-cuervo-tequila/ (Vinepair's 13 Things You Should Know About Jose Cuervo) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oaG7KilQP0U (Factory Tour Video on YouTube) https://www.statista.com/statistics/462718/jose-cuervo-tequila-us-sales-volume/ (Global Sales Figures) https://popsop.com/2011/08/jose-cuervo-restores-the-history-and-heritage-of-the-world%E2%80%99s-best-selling-tequila/ (2011 Bottle Update) https://drinkmanila.com/2018/02/03/new-year-new-look-for-jose-cuervo/ (2018 Bottle Update) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 80 features Fireball Cinnamon Whisky, which was on the market for decades before being spun off as a standalone brand and rocketing to popularity. Bottled in 750ml at 33% ABV, or 66 proof, it retails for about $15. Enjoy this episode with a shot of Fireball - if you dare! Fireball's official website: https://www.fireballwhisky.com/ (https://www.fireballwhisky.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1984 - Fireball is launched under the Dr. McGillicuddy's brand 1989 - Sazerac buys 7 brands from Seagrams, including Dr. McGillicuddy's 2007 - Fireball is rebranded as a standalone product and introduced to the USA 2010 - A social media campaign and brand ambassador heavily promote Fireball 2011 - Sales are only $1.9 Million US Dollars 2013 - Sales hit $61 Million US Dollars 2020 - About 6.3 million 9-liter equivalent cases are sold Key Cocktails: Fireball is for shooting. References: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2014-04-24/fireball-whisky-gains-on-jagermeister-via-social-media-bar-sales (Bloomberg BusinessWeek History of Fireball Article) (behind a pay wall) https://www.reddit.com/r/bartenders/comments/hfszun/hate_or_love_the_product_itself_the_fireball/ (Dr. McGillicuddy's Fireball Cinnamon Whisky Bottle) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fireball_Cinnamon_Whisky (Wikipedia Article on Fireball) https://www.huffpost.com/entry/fireball-whisky_n_3672309 (Huffpost Article on Fireball) https://www.thrillist.com/drink/nation/fireball-whiskey-millennials-popularity-decline-us (Thrillist Article on Fireball) https://www.ttb.gov/images/pdfs/spirits_bam/chapter7.pdf (TTB Regulations on Caramel Color) https://www.spicekitchenandbar.com/fireball-whiskey/ (Spice Kitchen and Bar Article) https://www.statista.com/statistics/462701/fireball-liqueur-us-sales-volume/ (2020 Sales Figures) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 79 features Black Velvet Canadian Whisky, the second best selling blended Canadian whisky on the market, and a tremendous value. Bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof, it retails for about $10. Enjoy this episode with a whisky cocktail of your choice, made with Black Velvet. Black Velvet's official website: https://www.blackvelvetwhisky.com/ (https://www.blackvelvetwhisky.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1946 - The whisky for the first bottling was distilled 1951 - The brand was launched, as a range of Velvet named whisky, Black Velvet was the only one to survive in the marketplace 1969 - The first Black Velvet Lady is introduced, a spokesmodel campaign that endured into the 1990s 1973 - Production moves to a purpose built distillery in Alberta, Canada 1991 - Automation is added to the distillery, vastly reducing employee count and increasing efficiency 2014 - Sales hit a high of 2.05 million 9-liter equivalent cases 2019 - Heave Hill Brands acquires Black Velvet Key Cocktails: Black Velvet works well in cocktails. Enjoy it in anything calling for a blended Canadian whisky. References: https://my.captivate.fm/Business%20Insider%20on%20Why%20It's%20Called%20Black%20Friday (Business Insider on Why It's Called Black Friday) https://www.history.com/news/the-black-friday-gold-scandal-145-years-ago (History.com Article on the Black Friday Gold Scandal) https://heavenhill.com/press-detail.php?postid=what-is-black-velvet-canadian-whisky (Heaven Hill Brands Press Release on Black Velvet Acquisition) https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2019/11/heaven-hill-buys-black-velvet-canadian-whisky/ (The Spirits Business Coverage of Heaven Hill Brans Acquisition) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Velvet_(whisky) (Wikipedia Article on Black Velvet) https://propadv.com/tag/black-velvet/ (Vintage Black Velvet Ads) https://www.statista.com/statistics/462786/black-velvet-canadian-whisky-us-sales-volume/ (Black Velvet Sales Volumes) https://youtu.be/G5DdRe5DnTI (Distillery Tour on YouTube) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 78 features Crystal Head Vodka, an exceptionally pure spirit bottled in a skull shaped 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof, it retails for about $45. Enjoy this episode with some Crystal Head Vodka mixed in your favorite cocktail. Crystal Head Vodka's official website: https://www.crystalheadvodka.com/ (https://www.crystalheadvodka.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 2007 - Dan Aykroyd and John Alexander have lunch and Alexander's idea for the skull shaped bottle comes up in conversation 2008 - The brand launches 2008 - The movie, Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull is released in theaters 2011 - The vodka wins a double gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2011 - Sales surpass 1 million bottles 2015 - Crystal Head Aurora is launched, made from rye 2020 - Crystal Head Onyx is launched, made from Weber Blue Agave Key Cocktails: Crystal Head Vodka is very pure, and a perfect clean slate for cocktails. Try it how Dan Aykroyd likes it, in a simple dirty vodka martini: 2 oz. Crystal head Vodka Splash of white vermouth Splash of olive juice Pour into a shaker full of ice, shake and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish if you like. Enjoy! References: https://youtu.be/dsHqfsoerWg (YouTube Virtual Tasting Produced During the Pandemic) Book: Vodka - How a Colorless, Odorless, Flavorless Spirit Conquered America by Victorino Matus https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crystal_Head_Vodka (Wikipedia Article) https://www.mashed.com/474540/the-untold-truth-of-crystal-head-vodka/ (Mashed Article) https://youtu.be/wwJmNaR_4hk (Original Launch Video) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=80TnchP9a1A (Pure Spirit - Brand Video on YouTube) https://money.cnn.com/galleries/2011/smallbusiness/1105/gallery.celebrity_entrepreneurs_secret/index.html (Money.com Reference) https://www.bbc.com/news/business-51113460 (BBC News Profile) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 77 features Licor 43, Cuarenta Y Tres, a Spanish liqueur. (Why this wasn't episode 43, I don't know, I missed it!) Bottled in 750ml at 31% ABV, or 62 proof, it retails for about $25. Enjoy this episode with Licor 43 neat, or with espresso. Licor 43's official website: https://www.licor43.com/ (https://www.licor43.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 209 BC - The Roman's conquer a part of southern Spain and encounter "Liqvor Mirabilis" that Licor 43 is said to be based on 1946 - The Zamora family begin bottling Licor 43 themselves 1950s & 60s - Advertising is used to cement the brands position in the Spanish market 1970s - Exports to other parts of Europe and the Americas begin 1980s - The brand builds a sailing ship to sail around the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Horn 2011 - Licor 43 is recognized as the fastest growing premium liqueur in its category 2010s - Investments are made to double production capacity 2015 - New bottle is designed 2016 - Brand extension comes 2020 - Ready-to-Drink (RTD) products featuring Licor 43 are introduced Key Cocktails: Licor 43 has many key cocktails and their own glasses - visit their website for more. The Carajillo is so popular, it's sold as an RTD bottle. But you can easily make your own, here's how: 1 Part Licor 43 1 Shot of Espresso Ice Pour the Licor 43 over ice, top with the hot shot of Espresso. Enjoy! References: https://zamoracompany.com/passionate-people/our-history/ (Zamora Company Website) https://www.liquor.com/licor-43-review-5201500 (Liquor.com Review) https://www.thespruceeats.com/licor-43-spanish-liqueur-3083096 (The Spruce Eats Article on Licor 43) https://www.diffordsguide.com/producer/1093/licor-43/story (Difford's Guide Listing) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dlf50xgF2IE (YouTube - Licor 43's Journey) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PFRcS8yRANw (YouTube - Experiencia 43) http://www.trends360.nl/iconic-licor-43-bottle-with-a-new-look.html (Press Mention Showing Historic Bottles) https://goldenvisasinspain.com/blogs/licor-43-the-drink-of-cartagena (Golden Visas In Spain - Travel Listing on Licor 43) https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2015/02/licor-43-launch-new-packaging-to-support-growth/ (The Spirits Business Article on New Packaging & Growth) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 76 features Shanky's Whip, an Irish Whiskey based liqueur. Bottled in 750ml at 33% ABV, or 66 proof, it retails for about $25. Enjoy this episode with Shanky's chilled, or mix it with root beer or cola. Shanky's Whip's official website: https://www.shankyswhip.com/ (https://www.shankyswhip.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1920s - Shanky is said to have raced horses and made whiskey, eventually turning to harness racing with his ostrich Shooter 2021 - Shanky's Whip is launched by Shanky & Shireman, a company formed by Biggar & Leith to produce the liqueur Key Cocktails: Shanky's Whip is intended for simple mixed drinks, experiment with it. A chilled shot is a suggested serve. References: Much of the information for this episode came directly from Lafayette USA, the US Importer and Distributor for Shanky's Whip. https://www.biggarandleith.com/ (Biggar & Leith) https://www.flickr.com/photos/taffeta/10216854284 (Image of the vintage Japanese Matchbox the Shanky's Whip Label was Based On) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrfXNbIZSI0 (Shanky's Whip YouTube Video) http://www.historyofmatches.com/ (History of Matches) https://www.rte.ie/archives/2018/0320/948772-history-of-matchboxes/ (Irish Match Manufacturer Article with Video from 1983) https://allthatsinteresting.com/ostrich-racing (Vintage Ostrich Racing) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 75 features Beefeater Gin, a London Dry style produced in London. Bottled in 750ml at 44% ABV, or 88 proof, for the US market, it retails for $20. Enjoy this episode with a classic Beefeater Gin Martini, or served with tonic. Beefeater's official website: https://www.beefeatergin.com/en-US (https://www.beefeatergin.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1820 - Chelsea Distillery is founded by the Taylor family 1863 - James Burrough purchases the distillery 1876 - Beefeater Gin is first introduced 1895 - The nine botanicals used in Beefeater are recorded in a company recipe book 1908 - Production moves to a new distillery in Lambeth, a part of London 1958 - Distillery moves again, to a site in Kennington, a part of London 1987 - The Burrough family sells Beefeater to brewing giant Whitbread 1995 - Desmond Payne becomes Master Distiller for Beefeater 2005 - Pernod Ricard acquires Beefeater 2014 - A visitor center opens at the distillery 2019 - Sales peak at 3.4 million 9-liter equivalent cases Key Cocktails: Beefeater mixes very well, try it in a favorite gin cocktail. Suggested serves include Gin & Tonic with 1 part gin to 3 parts tonic. References: https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20151023-the-secret-life-of-beefeaters (BBC Article on Beefeaters, the Yeoman of the Guard) https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2018/05/beefeater-a-brand-history/ (The Spirits Business Article on Beefeater) https://www.masterofmalt.com/blog/post/the-history-of-beefeater-gin.aspx (Master of Malt Article on Beefeater) https://vinepair.com/articles/ntk-beefeater-gin-guide/ (Vinepair.com Beefeater Overview) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beefeater_Gin (Wikipedia Article on Beefeater) https://www.statista.com/statistics/308833/beefeater-gin-global-sales-volume/ (Statista.com Sales Figures) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NtcYspo8wK8 (YouTube Video on How It's Made) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CgtQzyCrPAA (YouTube Video Behind The Scenes at Beefeater) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 74 features Guaucura Liqueur de Damiana, an herbal liqueur from Mexico. Bottled in 750ml at 30% ABV, or 60 proof, it retails for $30. Enjoy this episode with a Damian Margarita (just replace the triple sec with Damiana). Damiana's official website: https://www.damiana.net/ (https://www.damiana.net/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1960s - Damiana liqueur is imported into the USA 1990 - The spirit is "rediscovered" on a Spring Break trip to Los Cabos, Mexico 1991 - The Damiana Importing Co. is formed, bringing the liqueur back to the USA Key Cocktails: Legend has it the first margarita was made with Damiana! The brand suggests you try it frozen (put the bottle in the freezer, the liquid won't freeze solid due to the alcohol content). Also, try Damiana in a margarita, mix as you normally would, substituting Damiana for the triple sec/ References: My thanks to Jim Mcarthney, CEO of Damiana Importing Co., for speaking with me for this episode. The Drunken Botanist by Amy Stewart https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turnera_diffusa (Wikipedia Article on the Damiana Plant) https://chilledmagazine.com/damiana-liqueur-herbal-aphrodisiac-or-urban-legend (Chilled Magazine Reference) https://www.loscabosguide.com/mexicandrinks/damiana.htm (Los Cabos Guide Reference to Damiana) https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2007-jun-20-fo-drink20-story.html (LA Times Article Mentioning Damiana) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U6SGjE6XX8A (YouTube Video about Damiana (in Spanish)) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 73 features The Classic Laddie from Bruichladdich, a single malt Scotch Whisky. Bottled in 750ml at 50% ABV, or 100 proof, it retails for $60. Enjoy this episode with a dram of The Classic Laddie! Bruichladdich's official website: https://www.bruichladdich.com/ (https://www.bruichladdich.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1881 - The distillery is founded 1937 - A speculator buys the distillery and flips it 1938 - The distillery is refurbished, but mothballed due to the war 1989 - Mark Reynier first visits Bruichladdich 1995 - The distillery is mothballed for 7 years 2000 - Jim Beam Brands is the owner and agrees to sell Bruichladdich to Mark Reynier 2010 - The Classic Laddie is introduced 2012 - Rémy Cointreau buys Bruichladdich Key Cocktails: None! Drink this spirit neat! You may add a few drops of water if you so choose. References: https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2013/02/11/spirit-guide (2013 Article in The New Yorker Magazine) https://scotchwhisky.com/whiskypedia/1827/bruichladdich (ScotchWhisky.com Article on Bruichladdich) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bruichladdich_distillery (Wikipedia Article on Bruichladdich) https://www.diffordsguide.com/producers/255/bruichladdich-distillery/history (Diffords Guide Reference on Bruichladdich) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur

Episode 72 features Pau Maui Vodka, a vodka made in Hawaii from pineapples! Bottled in 750ml at 40% ABV, or 80 proof, it retails for $19. Enjoy this episode with your favorite vodka based cocktail! Pau Maui's official website: https://paumaui.com/ (https://paumaui.com/) Brief Historical Timeline: 1949 - The LeVecke family gets into the drinks business 1980s - LeVecke begins doing business in Hawaii, building Hawaiian brands 2006 - Open the Hali'imaile Distilling Company in Maui 2008 - License is issued. 2015 - Packaging has been updated, and a tasting room opens at the distillery 2018 - LeVecke buys the 800 acre Maui Gold Pineapple plantation Key Cocktails: Pau Maui is unflavored vodka, so the list of cocktails is literally endless. Recipes are on the brand's website. References: https://www.google.com/search?q=20.869N+156.341W (Link to Distillery Coordinates on the Bottle) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pineapple (Wikipedia Article on Pineapple) https://flaviar.com/pau/distillery/ (Flaviar Description of the Distillery) https://www.hawaiibevguide.com/haliimailedistilling/pau-vodka (Hawaii Beverage Guide Listing) https://www.bizjournals.com/pacific/news/2018/05/16/maui-gold-producers-haliimaile-pineapple-company.html (Business Journal Article on Purchase of Maui Gold Pineapple) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rCGpWXWjZy0 (YouTube Video on the Distillery for LeVecke Team) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9iQDJN-BNk (YouTube Distributor Video) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=liAXZZ9V9Bo (Pau Maui Vodka Featured On Drinking Made Easy) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNFiQv60Wkc (Original Promotional Video on YouTube) Contact Information: Official show website is: https://www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com/ (www.liquorandliqueurconnoisseur.com) Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf (http://eepurl.com/hfyhHf) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur (https://www.facebook.com/liquorandliqueurconnoisseur) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/ (https://www.instagram.com/LiquorandLiqueurConnoisseur/) Twitter: @LLConnoisseur