Liquor a.k.a. Hard Alcohol a.k.a. Booze references distilled beverages. The drinks in this category include libations that are made by fermenting and then distilling a base of fruit, grains, or vegetables. The process converts sugars into alcohol and separates the ester, alcohols, and water into from the rest of the mix. The ultimate product generally boast between 35% and 50% ABV. Often barrel aging or the addition of water occurs between distillation and bottling.
On February 12, the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DiSCUS) presented their annual report about the state of the spirits industry in America. The key talking points were not shocking to most industry-watchers: the current trade wars are devastating for American Whiskey producers; the premium and super premium sectors are booming; and the Craft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act (CBTRA) is a win, but more work is needed.
Los Angeles bartender Aaron Polsky is celebrated as a rock star of the industry. Now, Polsky is taking that description literally with his new venture, LiveWire. Borrowing a cue from the music industry, LiveWire will promote and represent the bar world’s stars through a talent agency as well as merchandise such as an inaugural line of canned cocktails.
Brewing powerhouse Heineken (HEIN.AS) just announced some positive numbers for the last quarter and some serious changes in leadership. After confirming that fourth quarter earnings exceeded analysts’ estimates, the Belgian beer house also announced that long serving CEO Jean-Francois van Boxmeer will step down.