In the summer of 1873, Samuel Clemens—better known as Mark Twain, the sharp-witted scribe of American tales—set sail across the Atlantic aboard the SS City of Chester, bound for England. The Mississippi River pilot turned literary luminary was no stranger to a good drink, having cut his teeth on bourbon and lager in the rough-and-tumble days of his youth in Missouri and Nevada. But this voyage would introduce him to a concoction that would capture his heart and palate, a drink he’d immortalize in a letter to his beloved wife, Olivia.

It was the ship’s surgeon, a man with a knack for mixing remedies and revelry, who first poured Twain what he called a “cock-tail.” The recipe was simple yet sublime: Scotch whisky, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a touch of crushed sugar, and a dash or two of Angostura bitters. Shaken with ice and served in a wine glass, it was a revelation to Twain, whose taste for bourbon had defined his earlier years. “Too much of anything is bad,” he’d later quip, “but too much good whiskey is barely enough.” This new Scotch-based elixir, bright with citrus and warmed by bitters, struck him as just the right kind of excess.

By the time Twain reached London, he was smitten. He savored the cocktail before breakfast, before dinner, and before bed, crediting it with a “wonderful” digestion that ticked along “as regular as a clock.” In January 1874, from the Langham Hotel, he penned a now-famous letter to Olivia: “Livy my darling, I want you to be sure & remember to have, in the bath-room, when I arrive, a bottle of Scotch whisky, a lemon, some crushed sugar, and a bottle of Angostura bitters(Later to be know as the Mark Twain Cocktail) Ever since I have been in London I have taken in a wine glass what is called a cock-tail (made with these ingredients)… It remains day after day and week after week as regular as a clock.” He wasn’t just fond of the drink; he believed it had near-medicinal powers, perhaps even a spark of romance, as he hinted at his eagerness to return to her side.

This cocktail, later dubbed the Mark Twain cocktail, was a twist on what we now know as an Old Fashioned, though some liken it to a Whiskey Sour sans egg white. Its Scotch base set it apart from the bourbon-heavy drinks of Twain’s homeland, and its lemony zing gave it a liveliness that suited his irreverent spirit. Back in the States, Twain’s love for Scotch deepened. He’d host powerful men in his Hartford mansion, regaling them with stories over glasses of this cocktail or, in later years, a simpler hot toddy—Scotch with hot water—to ward off toothaches and fuel late-night billiards.

The Mark Twain cocktail became a legend in its own right, served in places like Carson City’s Bank Saloon, where barkeeps toasted the writer’s legacy. To make it, mix 1½ ounces of Scotch whisky, ¾ ounce of fresh lemon juice, 1 ounce of simple syrup, and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters. Shake with ice, strain into a chilled glass, and garnish with a lemon twist. It’s a drink as bold and balanced as Twain’s prose, with a tart edge that cuts through life’s absurdities.

Twain, ever the humorist, once said he smoked “in moderation—only one cigar at a time,” despite puffing through 22 a day. His approach to his cocktail was much the same: savored with gusto, never in half-measures. And so, this drink remains a toast to a man who lived as he wrote—full of wit, warmth, and a touch of mischief.

101 Whiskey Quotes to Sooth the Soul and Maybe Get a Few Laughs – Click Here

JUNEAU, Alaska — Alaskan Distilling Co., the spirits division of Alaskan Brewing Co., has been named the 2025 U.S. Open Cocktail Champion, taking top honors at this year’s prestigious U.S. Open Whiskey & Spirits Championship. The Juneau-based company impressed judges with its innovative canned cocktails, earning two Gold medals and one Silver.

Award-Winning Canned Cocktails from Alaskan Distilling Company:

Gold – Rainforest Gin & Tonic (Classic Canned Cocktail)
Gold – CAMP FUEL: Citrus Breeze (Citrus Canned Cocktail)
Silver – Solstice Vodka Lemonade (Citrus Canned Cocktail)

These victories secured Alaskan Distilling the overall cocktail title, highlighting the brand’s creativity, craftsmanship, and bold flavors in a competitive national field.

“Being named the U.S. Open Cocktail Champion is a huge honor,” said Maxwell Rule, CEO of Alaskan Brewing Co. “This recognition reflects the passion and dedication of our team at Alaskan Distilling—from concept to can, they put their hearts into every product.”

The U.S. Open Whiskey & Spirits Championship is one of North America’s largest and most respected spirits competitions. Thousands of spirits and cocktails are judged in blind tastings by a panel of industry experts, who score entries based on aroma, flavor, balance, and overall impression.

This marks a continued rise for Alaskan Distilling Co., which earned Silver for its Musk Ox Mule and Bronze for its Rainforest Gin & Tonic in the 2024 competition. The 2025 wins further establish the brand as a leader in the growing ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktail space.

Now Available in Alaska
Rainforest Gin & Tonic
Solstice Vodka Lemonade
Musk Ox Mule
CAMP FUEL Citrus Breeze
CAMP FUEL Legendary

About Alaskan Distilling Co.
Alaskan Distilling Co. is driven by a passion for quality, community, and innovation. Originally rooted in world-class craft beer, the team expanded into craft distilling in 2019, embracing small-batch production using natural ingredients and traditional methods. The spirits are distilled on-site using a 10-hectoliter still at the main brewery campus in Juneau, Alaska, and a 1-hectoliter still located in the brewery’s tasting room.

The distilling team has developed a line of internationally award-winning canned cocktails, including the Solstice Vodka Lemonade, Rainforest Gin & Tonic, and Musk Ox Mule. Each sparkling, ready-to-drink cocktail is crafted with a base of Alaskan Distilling Co. gin or vodka and features only natural ingredients. The flavors reflect the wild beauty and native food sources of Alaska, offering a true taste of the Last Frontier.

Alaskan Distilling Co. proudly delivers hand-crafted spirits and cocktails—distilled the Alaskan way.

Website: www.alaskanbeer.com/ourdistillery/  

U.S. Open Whiskey & Spirits Championship
The U.S. Open Whiskey & Spirits Championship is held in Oxford, Ohio. It is one of the largest competitions in North America, showcasing excellence across a wide range of categories including whiskey, vodka, rum, gin, and ready-to-drink cocktails. Held annually, the competition attracts entries from craft distilleries and major producers alike, all of which are evaluated in blind tastings by a panel of expert judges. Spirits are judged based on aroma, taste, balance, and overall impression, ensuring a fair and rigorous process. The U.S. Open not only recognizes top-tier craftsmanship but also helps highlight emerging talent and innovative products within the growing craft spirits industry.

For more Whiskey Trivia and Fun Facts: Click Here

CINCINNATI, Ohio — Graeter’s Ice Cream, the nation’s oldest family-owned craft ice cream brand, has teamed up with Kentucky’s own New Riff Distilling to unveil a new, indulgent treat: Bourbon Ball Ice Cream. This first-of-its-kind collaboration between the two beloved brands pays homage to the classic Kentucky confection, blending Graeter’s signature small-batch ice cream with New Riff’s award-winning bourbon.

The new flavor is now available for nationwide shipping at Graeters.com, and will arrive in Graeter’s scoop shops beginning Monday, April 14. It will also be available for purchase at New Riff Distilling’s Gift Shop starting Saturday, April 12, with in-store availability at Meijer, Jungle Jim’s, and Dorothy Lane Market locations rolling out later this spring.

Bourbon Ball Ice Cream features bourbon-infused ice cream swirled with whiskey-glazed pecans and rich dark chocolate chips. The bourbon is sourced from a hand-selected, single barrel of New Riff Bourbon, delivering bold flavor and a smooth finish. This new offering evolves and replaces Graeter’s former Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan flavor, pushing the boundaries of indulgence while honoring Kentucky’s culinary traditions.

“This collaboration is a celebration of craftsmanship,” said Richard Graeter, fourth-generation President and CEO of Graeter’s. “By partnering with New Riff to handpick a special barrel of their bourbon, we’ve created a one-of-a-kind flavor that embodies the best of both worlds — fine bourbon and handcrafted ice cream.”

New Riff’s commitment to traditional sour mash techniques and bottled-in-bond standards made them the perfect match for Graeter’s artisan approach. The partnership unites two family-owned brands that share a deep-rooted passion for quality, creativity, and community.

“We’re proud to work with a local icon like Graeter’s,” said Mollie Lewis, President of New Riff Distilling. “Seeing how they incorporated our Single Barrel Bourbon into this luxurious recipe was incredible. It’s more than just a dessert — it’s a fusion of two Kentucky legacies.”

To celebrate the launch, New Riff Distilling will host a free tasting event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. ET on Saturday, April 12, where fans can sample Bourbon Ball Ice Cream and purchase pints on-site.

About Graeter’s Ice Cream
Founded in 1870, Graeter’s Ice Cream has handcrafted premium ice cream using the traditional French Pot method for over 150 years. With more than 50 retail stores and distribution in over 3,000 grocery stores across 46 states, Graeter’s continues to deliver rich, creamy, and indulgent ice cream one small batch at a time.

About New Riff Distilling
New Riff Distilling, located in Newport, Kentucky, is a family-owned distillery redefining traditional bourbon-making with a modern twist. Established in 2014 by Ken Lewis, a former liquor retailer, the distillery is renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation. New Riff produces a range of spirits, including high-rye bourbon, rye whiskey, and Kentucky Wild Gin, all crafted using non-GMO grains and mineral-rich water sourced from an on-site aquifer. Adhering to the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897, their whiskeys are aged for at least four years and bottled without chill filtration, ensuring a full-bodied flavor profile. Visitors can explore the distillery through various tours and tastings, experiencing firsthand the meticulous process behind each bottle. With its dedication to tradition and a passion for innovation, New Riff Distilling has quickly become a notable name in the American craft spirits scene.
For more, visit NewRiffDistilling.com

For more Whiskey Trivia and Fun Facts: Click Here

In the heart of Canton, Ohio, tucked within the scenic 55-acre Gervasi Vineyard estate, Gervasi Spirits is redefining the craft distilling experience. More than just a distillery, it’s part of a larger vision that fuses luxury hospitality, fine dining, and artisanal craftsmanship. And while the vineyard is already a well-established name in Midwest wine circles, Gervasi Spirits has emerged as a standout in its own right—earning national recognition for its high-quality spirits and immersive guest experience.

A New Chapter in Craft
Gervasi Spirits was established as a natural evolution of the Gervasi brand—one that would expand its portfolio beyond wine and into the art of distillation. Housed inside The Still House, a Tuscan-style stone chapel by day and sleek cocktail lounge by night, the distillery brings a dramatic sense of place to its operation. Inside, gleaming copper stills serve as both functional centerpieces and symbols of a deep commitment to small-batch, handcrafted spirits.

The distillery’s approach is rooted in precision and experimentation. Every product—from vodka to bourbon to botanical gin—is created in limited quantities using carefully sourced ingredients and traditional methods that allow for maximum control over flavor and quality.

 2025 U.S. Open Whiskey and Spirits Championship
Gervasi Spirits may be a relatively young operation, but it’s already earning the kind of recognition that veteran distillers strive for. At the 2025 U.S. Open Spirits Championship, Gervasi took home the Grand National Champion’s Cup, distinguishing itself as a force in American craft distilling. The distillery won four medals in the spirits division—two golds, a silver, and a bronze—and made history as the first producer to place in both the U.S. Open Whiskey and Spirits Championships. In the Whiskey Division, Gervasi’s Bourbons took home two gold medals and two silver medals.

What is master distiller, Shae Pridemore’s secret? A commitment to quality across the board. Gervasi’s Blood Orange Gin is bright, aromatic, and endlessly mixable, while the Barrel-Aged Bourbon boasts deep layers of vanilla, toasted oak, and spice. Their Small Batch Vodka is clean, smooth, and versatile enough to elevate any cocktail.

More Than a Bottle
What truly sets Gervasi Spirits apart is its experience-first philosophy. Visitors can sip spirits in The Still House lounge, surrounded by dramatic lighting and live music, or take part in curated tastings that delve into the nuances of distillation. For those who want to stay longer, Gervasi Vineyard offers on-site villas and boutique suites, as well as a full-service spa, multiple restaurants, and an Italian-style wine cave.

It’s this full-spectrum experience—part wine country, part culinary destination, part distilling showcase—that makes Gervasi a unique player in the world of craft spirits.

Looking to the Future
As Gervasi Spirits continues to grow, so does its ambition. Plans for expanded distribution, new product releases, and deeper collaborations with chefs, mixologists, and other artisans are on the horizon. But through it all, Gervasi remains committed to its roots: delivering authentic, high-quality spirits in a setting that’s as memorable as the first sip.

In an industry crowded with labels, Gervasi Spirits stands out not just for what it bottles—but for the world it builds around every pour.

About Gervasi Spirits
Gervasi Spirits, located in Canton, Ohio, is a boutique distillery renowned for its handcrafted, small-batch spirits that blend traditional techniques with innovative flavors. Situated within the picturesque Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa, the distillery produces a diverse range of premium offerings, including wine barrel-finished bourbon, rosé vodka, and blood orange gin. These unique spirits are meticulously crafted to be enjoyed neat or as key ingredients in creative cocktails. The distillery’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship has earned it numerous accolades, such as the Best of Class award for its Pink Peppercorn Gin at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Visitors can experience these exceptional spirits firsthand at The Still House, a distinctive venue that serves as both a coffeehouse by day and a cocktail lounge by night, offering a full menu of Gervasi Spirits, craft cocktails, and live music . For those interested in a deeper exploration, Gervasi offers guided distillery tours and tastings, providing an immersive experience into the art of spirit production .​
Website: gervasivineyard.com/spirits/

National American Single Malt Whiskey Day – January 19th
In honor of the U.S.  TTB rarifying American Single Malt Whiskey as an official category of whiskey, January 19 shall officially be known as National American Single Malt Whiskey Day.

Legislation of American Single Malt Whiskey
For the first time in over 52 years, the U.S. Government is adding a new type of whiskey to its regulations: American Single Malt Whiskey. Effective January 19th, 2025, The U.S. TTB defines American Single Malt Whiskey as a new category of whiskey Standard of Identity to Part 5 of the Code of Federal Regulations. That definition stipulates that American Single Malt adhere to the following production standards:

1. Made from 100% malted barley
2. Distilled entirely at one distillery
3. Mashed, distilled and matured in the USA
4. Matured in Oak Casks of a capacity not exceeding 700 Liters
5. Distilled to no more than 160 Proof
6. Bottled at 80 proof or more

For more Whiskey Trivia and Fun Facts: Click Here

Old Vatted Glenlivet 1862
The story of the oldest bottle of whiskey is a fascinating journey through history, craftsmanship, and mystery. One such remarkable bottle is the “Old Vatted Glenlivet 1862”, an exceptionally rare single malt Scotch whisky believed to date back to the mid-19th century. Here’s its story:

The Creation
In 1862, in the Scottish Highlands, the Glenlivet distillery produced a batch of whisky using traditional pot stills, copper condensers, and spring water from the Speyside region. This whisky was carefully matured in oak casks for years, absorbing the distinct flavors of its environment. The craftsmanship behind it was meticulous, as this was an era when whisky-making was more art than science.

A Journey Through Time
After maturing for an unspecified number of years, the whisky was bottled. Back then, the idea of “bottle aging” wasn’t understood, so this bottle’s journey into the 20th and 21st centuries is extraordinary. It passed through the hands of collectors, survived wars, changes in ownership, and shifts in cultural attitudes toward whisky.

Discovery and Rarity
The bottle was rediscovered in the early 20th century by a private collector who recognized its historical significance. It remained untouched, its cork sealed tightly, preserving the spirit within. This rarity became a cherished artifact, representing a time when whisky was crafted in small batches with no modern machinery.

Auction and Reverence
In 2017, the “Old Vatted Glenlivet 1862” went up for auction. Whisky connoisseurs and historians alike marveled at its survival. It fetched an incredible price, valued not just for its liquid but for its journey through history.

The Taste of History
Few will ever taste a whisky of such age and heritage, as it is considered more of a museum piece than a drinkable spirit. Those lucky enough to sample similarly aged whiskies describe them as having intense, complex flavors, with notes of leather, dried fruit, antique wood, and a faint smokiness—a reflection of the distillation methods and cask-aging practices of the era.

This story is a testament to the longevity and timeless allure of whisky, embodying the resilience of tradition and the passage of time. Each sip, if ever taken, would be a direct link to the people, culture, and craftsmanship of a bygone era.

Nikola Tesla, the eccentric genius known for his groundbreaking work in electricity and magnetism, was also known for his peculiar habits and health theories. Among these was his daily consumption of whiskey, which he believed would help him live to the age of 150. Here’s the story:

A Man of Unusual Convictions
Tesla was a man of science but also a creature of ritual. He had strong beliefs about health and longevity, often informed by his unique interpretations of scientific principles and his observations of the world. Tesla believed that whiskey, when consumed moderately, had medicinal properties that could bolster health and extend life.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, whiskey was often touted as a remedy for various ailments, from colds to fatigue. Tesla embraced this notion and incorporated whiskey into his daily routine, convinced that its “tonic” properties would help him achieve his goal of living to 150 years old.

The Role of Moderation
Tesla’s whiskey habit wasn’t about indulgence but discipline. He didn’t drink to excess; instead, he treated whiskey as part of a carefully managed lifestyle. Alongside this, he was known for his meticulous eating habits, avoidance of tobacco, and a commitment to regular physical exercise, particularly walking.

He once said, “Whiskey will help clear your head and stimulate your brain,” reflecting his belief that a sharp mind was key to a long and productive life.

Unexpected Challenges
Tesla’s aspirations for longevity met unexpected obstacles. In 1920, during the Prohibition era in the United States, the production, sale, and transportation of alcohol were banned. This meant Tesla could no longer legally procure whiskey for his daily ritual. While it’s unclear how he coped with this restriction, Tesla likely found the ban frustrating, given his belief in whiskey’s health benefits.

Tesla’s Later Years
Despite his health theories and whiskey habit, Tesla’s life ended at age 86 in 1943—not 150 as he had hoped. By then, he had become a recluse, living in a New York City hotel and feeding pigeons in his spare time. While he didn’t achieve his goal of extreme longevity, he left behind an extraordinary legacy of scientific achievements that continue to inspire the world.

A Legacy of Curiosity
Tesla’s belief in whiskey as a longevity elixir is a charming footnote to his life, showcasing the quirky, human side of a man often revered as a superhuman innovator. It’s a reminder that even the greatest minds can hold unconventional beliefs and that their lives are as fascinating as their inventions.

More Whiskey Triva