Author Archives: Joel Whitaker

Kove Launches Limited-Release Dragon Fruit Margarita

Kove Brewing, San Diego, Calif., launched a limited collaboration flavor, Dragon Fruit Margarita, which was created in partnership with Pitaya Foods.  Kové’s Dragon Fruit Margarita offers a “better-for-you” buzz as a beverage that is vegan, gluten-free and made with organic … Continue reading

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Who & What —

Beam Suntory promotes Carlo Coppola to managing director of James B. Beam Distilling Co., effective July 1.  He has been chief commercial officer.  Coppola will oversee long-term plans for the Beam family of brands, including Jim Beam, Knob Creek, Basil Hayden and Booker’s … Continue reading

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Memorial Day On-Premise Sales, Traffic Surge

All key states experienced double-digit positive velocity on Memorial Day, May 30, compared with the previous Monday.  Total U.S. sales were up 30%, driven by a 26% increase in traffic, according to CGA’s BeverageTrak data.  California experienced an especially strong day, … Continue reading

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Number of Texas Distilleries Grew 2275% in 10 Years

In 2020, Texaas distillleries output totaled $1.28 billion, according to a new study from researchers at the University of Texas San Antonio’s Institute for Economic Development.  Sales by Texas distilleries reached nearly $2 billion and supported 4,900 jobs which paid … Continue reading

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Researchers Identify the Real Compounds Linked to Smoke Taint in Wine, Grapes

An Oregon State University-led research team has discovered a class of compounds that contribute to smoke taint in wine and grapes. “This is a critically important for winemakers who are increasingly dealing with the impact of wildfire smoke on their … Continue reading

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Rising Energy Costs Push Wine Bottle Price Up 35%

That 35% increase to Bloomington, Ind., Butler Winery. Butler Winery founder Jim Butler said he’s considering a 7% increase on its next batch of wine.  Whether that price goes up 7% or more hinges on future price increases.  Nearly every … Continue reading

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