by admin | Jul 11, 2026 | IN THE NEWS
Award-Winning Whiskey Brand Also Changes Distributors in Kentucky
Memphis, TN (June 22, 2026) – B.R. Distilling, parent company of Blue Note Bourbon™, the award-winning whiskey portfolio which is artfully crafted to honor the rich blues music that is synonymous with Memphis, has broadened its distribution into Indiana and Nebraska, selecting Vino Indiana and Quench Fine Wines, respectively. B.R. Distilling also selected Heritage Wine & Spirits as its new distributor in Kentucky.
“Choosing the right distribution partners is one of the most important decisions a growing whiskey brand can make,” said Dan Jurkovic, National Sales Director, B.R. Distilling Co. “As consumer demand for Blue Note Bourbon increases, we’re excited to welcome these three new distribution partners to our network. Their market expertise, strong retail relationships, and shared commitment to building premium spirits brands will help us expand our reach while ensuring more consumers have access to our award-winning portfolio. We look forward to working together to accelerate growth in these key markets.”
Blue Note’s whiskey portfolio is distilled in Kentucky and then aged just north of downtown Memphis where the Mississippi and Wolf Rivers collide. The long summers filled with infamous Memphis heat and cooler evenings forces the whiskey deep into the oak, creating an unmistakably rich flavor that’s bold yet smooth. The award-winning portfolio includes the flagship Juke Joint ($34.99), Toasted (formerly known as Crossroads) ($44.99), Uncut ($49.99), and Straight Rye Whiskey ($34.99) expressions. At the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, Juke Joint and Crossroads were awarded Platinum medals, a rare honor meaning that each expression has received Double Gold medals for three consecutive years. In recent years, Blue Note has also introduced several other highly awarded limited-release offerings, which include Premium Small Batch, Single Barrel Reserve, Special Reserve, 17-year, and a Honey Rye and Honey Bourbon Cask.
About B.R. Distilling Company
Founded in 2014 in Memphis, TN, B.R. Distilling Company is the oldest licensed distillery in Memphis, TN, and producer of world-famous Blue Note Bourbon. Currently, the company produces five flagship expressions, along with regular limited releases, which are distributed across the following U.S. states: AL, AR, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MS, MO, NE, NJ, NY, OK, RI, SC, TN, TX, Washington, DC and WI as well as online at BlueNoteBourbon.com via Bevstack, which can be shipped to: AZ, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, ME, MN, MO, MT, NC, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, TX, VT, WA, WI, WV, and WY. Take note. Sip responsibly.
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by admin | Jul 11, 2026 | IN THE NEWS
Higher-Proof Line Extension Expands Upon First Joint Venture Between Caribbean Distilleries to Produce a Multi-Island Blended Rum
Corona del Mar, CA (June 23, 2026) – Probitas, the award-winning white blended rum which has set a new gold standard for White Rum used in cocktails, has launched a new Green Label Blended Rum. Like Probitas White, Green Label comes from two of the most iconic distilleries in two of the most respected islands in the Caribbean for rum making – Foursquare Rum Distillery in Barbados and Hampden Estate in Jamaica.
The new expression is a blend of three distinct rums, blended by Master Distiller and Master Blender Richard Seale of Foursquare Rum Distillery in Barbados. The components include Unaged Double Retort Pot Still Rum from Hampden Estate in Jamaica, along with Unaged Twin-Column Coffey Still Rum, Unaged Double-Retort Pot Still Rum and two-year aged Double-Retort Pot Still Rum all from Foursquare Rum Distillery in Barbados. The Green Label also includes caramel made by Richard at Foursquare in Barbados that is produced through a process of super heating sugar, while leaving zero residual sweetness.
Probitas Green Label Tasting Notes
- Aroma: rich figs, fresh caramel, brown butter and vanilla, layered with hints of pineapple, orange peel, coconut and an overripe banana and subtle grassy note
- Palate: bold and complex, but surprisingly easy considering its proof. Notes of brown sugar and caramelized pineapple with layered tannins, giving way to a bright and almost citrus forward finish
Probitas Green Label plays well in traditional cocktails, and especially with bold and intense tropical cocktails.
“The newest release from Probitas has somehow managed to fill an unexpected gap in every rum bar’s backbar,” said Joe Mele of Coastal Kitchen & Daiquiri Bar in Bayshore Long Island.
“Probitas Green Label is an incredibly flavor packed pure expression of Barbados and Jamaica. The higher proof and rich molasses notes allow for it to hold its own in place of whiskey in classics like an old fashioned and sazerac, while still staying light enough on its feet to put forth incredible daiquiris. Mix this into your secret mai-tai specs, your house rum blends, and anywhere else you can. Outstanding.”
“I love mixing up cocktails with Probitas Green Label because it’s an incredibly versatile rum with a depth of flavor that shines on its own in a simple Daiquiri, but also in cocktails with big, bold flavors like a Negroni or a Corn ‘n’ Oil,” said Pepper Stashek, Bar Kabawa, in New York City.
Probitas Green Blended Rum was distilled, matured, blended, and bottled entirely in the Caribbean. No sugar, nor neutral/multi column spirit added. The expression was bottled at 57% ABV (114 proof) and is now available throughout the U.S. and online for the suggested retail price of $34.99.
For more information, please visit https://altamarbrands.com/brands/probitas-rum/ and Probitas on Instagram.
About Altamar Brands LLC
Founded in 2005 by W. L. Lyons Brown, III, Altamar Brands is a small, entrepreneurial outfit founded to develop and import esoteric, artisanal spirits brands that offer unique and distinctive production stories in their respective categories. They include: Elvelo Tequila, Foursquare Rum, High n’ Wicked Whiskeys, Kubler Absinthe, Lágrimas del Valle Tequila, Probitas Rum, Right Gin, and R.L. Seale’s Barbados Rum.
For more information, please visit https://altamarbrands.com/
With Cocktailing, Quality Bests Quantity.
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by admin | May 26, 2026 | IN THE NEWS
Limited-Release Blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskeys Features a Special Red, White & Blue Label to Commemorate the United States’ 250th Anniversary
Louisville, KY (May 25, 2026) – Barrell Craft Spirits® (BCS), the original independent blender of unique aged, cask strength whiskey since 2013, today introduced Barrell Bourbon Batch 038, a blend of straight bourbon whiskeys distilled in Kentucky (12-year), Tennessee (12 & 15-year), Indiana (9 & 10-year, and Maryland (8-year). The limited-release blend was expertly crafted and bottled in Kentucky at 116.96 proof (58.48% ABV) and has a derived mash bill of 79% corn, 17% rye, and 4% malted barley. The new expression is now available for purchase online via the BCS website at barrellbourbon.com and at retailers across the country for the suggested retail price of $84.99 per 750ml bottle.
Barrell Bourbon batches are the hallmark of BCS’ dedication to crafting innovative, high-quality bourbons. Released annually, each batch is a unique expression of the art of blending, designed to showcase a diverse range of ages and styles. With layers of complexity and depth, every batch is ensured to be distinctive and memorable.
Barrell Bourbon Batch 038 showcases layers of mature bourbon which combine to create a deep, complex woodiness. The palate is dark, brooding, and earthy, with fine tannins that linger long into the finish, allowing the flavors to slowly unfold. A splash of water reveals a sweeter side, lifting notes of confetti cake, lemon jelly, and mango.
Founded in 2013 in Louisville, KY, BCS selects and blends products that explore different distillation methods, barrels, and aging environments. BCS’s extensive stocks of high-quality casks mean it can craft extraordinary blends that maximize the nuances of each ingredient. Creative finishes and a liberated approach to blending guides every product release.
The award-winning line of BCS releases are sold in 49 US states, Puerto Rico, the UK, South Korea, the Ukraine, and Australia. Follow Barrell Craft Spirits on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube, or visit barrellbourbon.com.
Barrell Craft Spirits®
Louisville-based Barrell Craft Spirits® is the original, pre-eminent independent blender of unique, aged, cask strength whiskey and rum. Recognized for our blending expertise since 2013, we skillfully design, produce, and launch leading, unique products that surprise and delight whiskey aficionados and novices alike. Our cask-strength small-batch and single-barrel releases have quickly become an influencing force in American whiskey, winning awards from the world’s most prestigious distilled spirits publications and competitions. Barrell Craft Spirits®, Barrell®, Barrell Bourbon® and Barrell Rye® are registered trademarks owned by Barrell Craft Spirits LLC.
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by admin | Apr 28, 2026 | IN THE NEWS
Available as Both Plata & Reposado Expressions from El Arenal, Jalisco; a Celebration of Terroir
Corona del Mar, CA (April 28, 2026) – Lágrimas del Valle, the award-winning tequila which celebrates “terroir,” has launched its newest vintage, “La Mesa del Charco.” The Plata and Reposado expressions represent the brand’s inaugural Single Estate Tequila and sixth field harvested. Every bottling carries a familiar profile but is distinctly unique in both flavor and aroma.
Lágrimas del Valle is produced in collaboration with Tequila Cascahuin (NOM 1123) and Master Distiller Salvador “Chava” Rosales Trejo. Their distilling tradition dates back three generations to 1904. Nestled in a valley just outside El Arenal, Jalisco – the heart of the “Valley” of Tequila, this field is owned and operated by the Rosales Family of Cascahuin – a true Estate bottling that marks a step beyond our traditional partner-farmed “Ranchos.” The agave here grows in a wild aromatic landscape of Campanilla flowers, Eucalyptus and Guamuchiles (Madras Thorn), imparting a character as unique as the valley itself.
For all Lágrimas expressions, the Rosales family begins by selecting the best Blue Weber Agave available – looking for ripeness, but also for signs of complexities of flavor. The agaves are then loaded into their small 12-16-ton steam powered masonry ovens. Cascahuin utilizes a unique intermittent cooking method for eight hours per day, then stopping until the following day, and repeating over the course of four days. This allows for deep layers of flavor to be developed. The cooked agaves are then removed from the ovens, and their “agua miel” (honey waters) extracted. 70% of the agaves are crushed utilizing a roller mill and then fermented in stainless steel tanks, while the other 30% are crushed using a Tahona, and fermented in open air wooden tanks with the addition of “bagasse” (agave fibers).
“From the very beginning, our vision was to create a tequila that tells a complete story—one rooted in a single place, shaped by its land, and guided by generations of craftsmanship,” said Brandon Cummins, Master Blender and Director of Education for Altamar Brands. “This inaugural single estate expression is a true reflection of that philosophy, a snapshot of the character of the agave, soil, and people in every sip. Lágrimas ‘La Mesa del Charco’ is as distinctive as the land from which it comes.”
Tasting Notes for Lágrimas La Mesa del Charco:
- Plata – layers of tangerine, plus hints of clove and anise give way to a rich velvety mouthfeel of white chocolate, dried cherries, and almond
- Reposado – indulgent notes of orange creamsicle and toasted hazelnuts with a delicate hint of caramelized banana that finishes with a touch of citrus zest and brown butter
Previous Lágrimas del Valle releases include:
- Palo Verde (2022)
- Top 100 Spirits of 2022, Wine Enthusiast, 94 points (Plata)
- Best Sipping Tequilas of 2024, Men’s Journal (Plata)
- El Chiqueño (2022)
- “What tequila is supposed to taste like” -Doug Price, Agave Social Club
- El Sabino (2023)
- 30 Best Tequilas for 2024, Vinepair, 96 points (Plata)
- Top 100 Spirits of 2024, Wine Enthusiast, 94 points (Reposado)
- La Loma (2024)
- Agavos Awards, Double Gold (Plata)
- International Wine & Spirits Competition, Double Gold, 98 points and Wine Enthusiast, 97 points (Reposado)
- La Sabina (2024)
- Wine Enthusiast, 95 points (Plata)
- Wine Enthusiast, 96 points (Reposado)
Lágrimas del Valle “La Mesa del Charco” Plata and Reposado tequilas are double distilled, blended, and bottled at 92 proof (46% ABV) – just below still strength. Each bottle notes the vintage date of harvest, name of the single ranch, as well as details pertaining to its elevation, location, and distinctive characteristics. Both expressions are available throughout the U.S. and online for the suggested retail price of $54.99 and $59.99, respectively.
For more information, please visit https://altamarbrands.com/brands/lagrimastequila/
About Altamar Brands LLC
Founded in 2005 by W. L. Lyons Brown, III, Altamar Brands is a small, entrepreneurial outfit founded to develop and import esoteric, artisanal spirits brands that offer unique and distinctive production stories in their respective categories. They include High n’ Wicked Whiskeys, Foursquare Exceptional Cask Selections Rums, Probitas Rum, R.L. Seale’s 12-Year-Aged Barbados Rum, Witches’ Tree Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, Elvelo Tequila, Kubler Absinthe, Right Gin and Lágrimas del Valle Tequila. For more information, please visit https://altamarbrands.com/
With Cocktailing, Quality Bests Quantity.
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by admin | Apr 26, 2026 | IN THE NEWS
100% Additive-Free Small-Batch Tequila Also Introduces a Series of Additive-Free Cocktails in Honor of the Annual Holiday
New York, NY (April 23, 2026) – Marcado 28, a premium small-batch tequila, born from Master Tequilero Bruno Barba of the legendary Romo family that invented Reposado and elevated by the palate of Michelin-starred chef Michael Voltaggio, is offering tequila lovers $5 off each bottle purchased online for Cinco de Mayo via Marcado28.com using the code: CINCODEMAYO2026.
Marcado 28 Blanco and Reposado additive-free tequilas honor 10 generations of distilling expertise and time-honored, traditional techniques — slow-roasting agave and crafting tequila from three all-natural ingredients: water, 100% blue Weber agave from the Tequila Valleys of Jalisco, Mexico, and yeast.
Just in time for Cinco de Mayo, Marcado 28 has crafted a series of additive-free cocktails, which use fresh fruit, real botanicals, and honest ingredients, in lieu of commonly used liqueurs, colorants, and preservatives. From the classic margarita to the paloma fresca, tequila enthusiasts can enjoy these additive-free cocktails this Cinco de Mayo and beyond. Visit Marcado28.com today and enter your email address to receive the cocktail recipes.
“Marcado 28 tequilas are additive-free and we believe that your cocktails should honor that purity,” said Chef and Marcado 28 co-founder Michael Voltaggio. “Additive-free isn’t just what’s in the bottle but how you drink it. People are increasingly asking what’s in their tequila, and these cocktails deliver on the additive-free movement. Additionally this year, tequila lovers will receive five (cinco) dollars off their online purchase of Marcado Blanco and Reposado Tequilas for Cinco de Mayo – Cinco for Cinco!”
Marcado 28 Blanco is the purest form of tequila; clear, unaged and unaltered, while Marcado 28 Reposado acquires a rich golden hue that whispers tales of time and tradition after aging for eight months in American oak barrels. Both expressions received high praise from Wine Enthusiast magazine, which rated the Blanco ($50) and Reposado ($60) with 94 and 93 points, respectively.
For more information, including where to buy, please visit https://marcado28.com/ and follow the brand on Facebook and Instagram
About Marcado 28
Marcado 28 is a premium tequila brand rooted in tradition and authenticity, crafted by a 10th-generation tequila-making family in partnership with Master Tequilero Bruno Barba, Chefs Michael & Bryan Voltaggio, and Spirits That Rock, LLC. Distilled in Jalisco, the award-winning Blanco and Reposado expressions are crafted from 100% blue Weber agave, hand-selected from family-owned farms cultivated and slow-cooked in stainless steel ovens. Focused on additive-free production and real-world engagement, Marcado 28 is redefining how tequila connects with modern consumers.
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