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World Spirits Report 2023

  The global   spirits   sector continues to recover from the pandemic, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the cost of living crisis. The decades-long premiumisation trend also “weakened significantly” in the first half of 2023 as consumers tightened their spending, according to IWSR Drinks Market Analysis. In the first six months of 2023, consumption of premium and above spirits reversed compared to the same period in 2022 in markets such as Brazil, Colombia and the UK. The IWSR also noted volume declines in premium-plus cognac and armagnac, driven by a double-digit decline in the US, despite cognac’s recovery in China. However, premiumisation continues in Asia, with high-end baijiu performing well in China and markets such as India, the Philippines and Thailand showing ‘dynamic growth’ in high-end spirits consumption. During the financial crash of 2008-09, consumers traded down to value products, but premium-plus offerings proved resilient, the IWSR said. “Despite the ove...

Understanding What Alcohol is Considered a Spirit

  The world of alcoholic beverages is a diverse and rich tapestry, encompassing a wide array of drinks that vary in taste, origin, and production methods. Central to this landscape are   spirits , a category of alcohol that holds a distinct place due to its unique characteristics and production process. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into   what alcohol is considered a spirit , examining its defining features, historical significance, production techniques, and the diverse types that fall within this intriguing category. Defining Spirits: What Sets Them Apart At the heart of understanding what alcohol is considered a spirit lies the distinction in its production and characteristics. Unlike  beer  or  wine , which are fermented beverages, spirits are distilled. This process involves heating a fermented liquid to create vapor, which is then condensed back into a liquid form. This distillation process results in a higher alcohol content, often exc...

Chinese police bust counterfeit wine operation by order

  Chinese authorities have dismantled an elaborate counterfeit   wine   operation in Beijing involving the production and sale of bespoke top wines, including specific vintages of Bordeaux first growths, underlining a worrying trend of counterfeiters becoming more sophisticated in their deception. The operation, which came to light in mid-November following a tip-off, uncovered a sophisticated network of fraudsters who are adept at producing top Bordeaux, including Chateau Lafite Rothschild and Chateau Mouton Rothschild of specific vintages, to order. Investigators have found that the counterfeiters would recycle expensive wine bottles and refill them with cheaper wines. Led by a key suspect identified only as Zhang, the group of counterfeiters operating from a courtyard in the Fangshan district would buy empty bottles of high-end wine for as much as RMB 500 (US$70.5) each. These bottles were then refilled with wine costing around RMB 300 and sold for over RMB 1,000 per b...

Unveiling the Essence: What is Grey Goose Vodka Made From?

  Delving into the world of premium   spirits , Grey Goose   vodka   stands as an iconic name renowned for its quality and smoothness. A question often pondered by enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike is, “ What is Grey Goose vodka made from ?” This inquiry opens the door to an exploration of the intricate craftsmanship and ingredients that culminate in the creation of this esteemed spirit. Origins and Distinctive Identity To truly grasp the essence of Grey Goose vodka, one must begin with its origins. Crafted in the Cognac region of France, Grey Goose emerged in the 1990s, a creation of François Thibault, a master cognac blender with a vision to develop a vodka of unparalleled quality. The foundation of Grey Goose’s essence lies not only in its birthplace but also in the exquisite ingredients meticulously selected for its production. Base Ingredient: Fine French Wheat At the heart of Grey Goose vodka lies a crucial element—fine French wheat. This wheat, specifically s...

Hudson Valley family winery is closing after 42 years in business

  If you’ve been looking forward to a weekend day trip to the Hudson Valley – and maybe a   wine   tasting along the way – there’s some sad news. The family-owned Baldwin Vineyards, which has been in business in the Pine Bush for 42 years, is closing. The announcement was made on their social media, where they said they were “grateful for the unwavering support and loyalty you have shown us over the years”. They wrote: “The decision to close our winery was a difficult one, but we take comfort in the countless memories we have shared with each and every one of you. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being an integral part of our journey and for enjoying our wines with us”. In a statement to the USA Today Network, owner Wendy Baldwin-Landolina said: “After careful consideration, we have made the decision to retire in order to prioritise our time with family and friends.” Their last day of operation will be 31 December. A farewell weekend is planned for 16 and 17...

Is Tequila Stronger Than Vodka: Unveiling the Potency

  The debate surrounding the potency of various alcoholic beverages has long been a topic of interest among enthusiasts and researchers alike. One common comparison frequently examined is the strength of   tequila   versus   vodka . Both   spirits   are renowned for their distinct flavors, production methods, and cultural significance. However, determining which one holds greater strength involves a nuanced exploration of alcohol content, distillation processes, and individual perceptions. Alcohol Content and Proof: Understanding the Basics To comprehend  whether tequila surpasses vodka in strength , one must delve into their alcohol content. Vodka is typically distilled to a high alcohol by volume (ABV) level, often ranging between 35% to 50%. Conversely, tequila usually boasts an ABV content of about 38% to 40%. Despite this difference, both spirits can have varying alcohol strengths based on the brand, production techniques, and classification. Tequ...

What Is Roku Gin Made From?

  Gin   enthusiasts and connoisseurs of fine   spirits   often find themselves captivated by the intricate flavors and botanical blends within different gin varieties. Among the diverse array of gins available in the market, Roku Gin stands out as a celebrated and distinguished Japanese craft gin. Its exquisite taste and unique character stem from a thoughtfully curated selection of ingredients. To truly appreciate Roku Gin, it is essential to delve into the components that contribute to its exceptional quality and distinctiveness. Origins and Philosophy of Roku Gin Before exploring  the ingredients that compose Roku Gin , understanding its origins and the philosophy behind its creation is integral. Roku, meaning ‘six’ in Japanese, pays homage to the six distinct botanicals that form the core of this gin. Crafted by the esteemed Suntory distillery, Roku Gin encapsulates the essence of Japan’s rich cultural heritage and reverence for nature. Suntory’s dedication ...

Understanding Jägermeister: What Type of Spirit Is It?

  Jägermeister, an iconic German herbal   liqueur , has held a distinctive place in the world of   spirits   since its inception. The question frequently arises:   What type of spirit is Jägermeister ? To comprehend the complexities and nuances of this renowned beverage, it’s essential to delve into its history, ingredients, production process, and cultural significance. A Historical Overview: Origins and Evolution To grasp the essence of Jägermeister, one must explore its rich historical roots. Founded in 1934 by Curt Mast, this celebrated spirit has its origins in Wolfenbüttel, Germany. Initially created as a digestif, its recipe stems from a secret blend of 56 herbs, fruits, roots, and spices. The name “Jägermeister” translates to “master hunter,” an ode to the founder’s family legacy of hunting and the spirit’s original association with the outdoors. Despite its early ties to hunting culture, Jägermeister gradually evolved beyond its niche origins. Over the ...

Who is compatible with a Scorpio

  The Scorpio   personality, ruled by the intense and transformative energy of Pluto, is a complex tapestry of passion, mystery, and depth. Individuals born under the sign of Scorpio, which spans from October 23 to November 22, are known for their magnetic allure and profound emotional intensity. Understanding the Scorpio personality   is crucial when exploring compatibility, as their characteristics play a significant role in shaping relationships. Delving into the intricacies of Scorpio compatibility   requires a nuanced examination of the astrological landscape to unravel the mysteries of who aligns harmoniously with this enigmatic water sign.   1. Scorpio Compatibility with Water Signs : A Deep Connection   Scorpio, a fellow water sign, shares an intrinsic understanding with Cancer and Pisces. This trio forms a harmonious alliance, creating an emotional and intuitive connection that transcends words. The Scorpio personality finds solace and comfort in t...