The Smoking Bishop

Drinks, Cocktails & Likör

The Smoking Bishop Victorian England’s Christmas Drink The Smoking Bishop gained widespread popularity during the Victorian era in England, akin to the well-known “mulled wine.” This delightful concoction is crafted from red wine, spices, fruits, and...

Fake Old Whiskey

Science

Fake Old Whiskey Counterfeit Whiskey Counterfeit whiskey has emerged as a serious issue within the spirits industry, with unscrupulous individuals seeking to profit from the allure of rare and aged spirits.  Counterfeit whiskey refers to the production and...

The Hell Hole Swamp Still

North American Distilling, Prohibition

The Hell Hole Swamp Still Delving into the Past: The Fascinating Story of the Hell Hole Swamp Still Nestled within the depths of the Hell Hole Swamp area in Williamsburg County, South Carolina, the Hell Hole Swamp Still, also known as the Williamsburg County Still,...

The Evolution of “Fire Water”

North American Distilling

The Evolution of “Fire Water” From Alchemical Elixirs to Indigenous Healing Beverages The term “Fire Water” has a rich history, evolving from its origins as a descriptor for a burning sensation-inducing drink to encompass a range of meanings...

George Remus

Prohibition

George Remus The King of the Bootleggers George Remus was an influential figure during the Prohibition era in Cincinnati in the early 20th century. His background as a German immigrant, pharmacist and a defense lawyer granted him a unique advantage in understanding...

1894 Milwaukee Brandy Revolution

Drinks, Cocktails & Likör

1894 Milwaukee Brandy Revolution Brandy & The Columbian Exposition, Chicago 1893 The Brandy Revolution took root in Milwaukee during the World’s Columbian Exposition held in Chicago in 1893. This global event drew many Wisconsinites, and amidst the various...

The Salzburger’s Brandy

North American Distilling

The Salzburger’s Brandy Georgia’s first distillers In 1734 Salzburger Emigrants, a group of German-speaking Protestant refugees from the Catholic Archbishopric of Salzburg, sailed from England to Charleston, South Carolina, and thereafter to  Savannah,...

Georgia’s Brandy from Corn Stalks

North American Distilling

Georgia’s Brandy from Corn Stalks The Salzburgers in Georgia In 1734, a group of Protestant Salzburgers, fleeing religious persecution in their home countries of Germany and Austria, sought refuge by establishing a settlement in the newly formed Colony of...

Amrita

Drinking Gods, Myths & Fairytales

Amrita The Drink Of Immortality Amrita, a revered elixir in ancient Indian Vedas, is often referred to as the nectar of the gods, known by other names such as Soma or Madhu. Beyond its literal sense, Amrita embodies the concept of immortality in Hindu mythology. The...