Distiller’s Digest

In the era of on-demand convenience and curated commerce, the liquor industry is embracing eCommerce like never before. Whether you're a casual shopper looking for a unique bottle for home enjoyment—or a licensed business stocking inventory in bulk—the online liquor space in 2025 offers more access, variety, and value than ever before. From high-end spirits to everyday essentials, here’s your definitive guide to the best online platforms for liquor purchases  both retail and wholesale  this year. Cask Liquor Supply Best for: Wholesale buyers, collectors, and retail customers looking for premium and limited-release spirits. Why It Stands Out: Cask Liquor Supply is one of 2025’s top emerging platforms, offering a highly curated experience for both individual buyers and licensed businesses . Their strength lies in combining high-end product availability with efficient logistics and personalized service. What Makes Cask Liquor Supply Exceptional: Wholesale & Retai...

  The holiday season brings with it an air of celebration—and for many, that means savoring a perfectly crafted drink. Whether you're shopping for a whiskey aficionado, an aspiring mixologist, or someone who simply appreciates a good gin and tonic, choosing the right gift can make their holidays even more memorable. This year, skip the standard bottle of wine and opt for something that speaks directly to their spirited passions. Here’s your guide to finding thoughtful, elegant, and downright delicious gifts for the spirit lover in your life. A Bottle to Remember No matter how refined their palate is, there's always a special bottle that can surprise and delight. For those who enjoy the smoky depth of Scotch, consider the timeless appeal of Lagavulin 16 Year Old , a peaty classic that has earned legendary status. If your giftee leans toward bourbon, Blanton’s Single Barrel offers a smooth, caramel-rich experience—and its collectible horse-topper design makes it a beautiful ...

  When it comes to crafting cocktails, nothing beats hands-on experimentation—except, perhaps, having the right books within reach. Whether you're a budding home bartender or a seasoned cocktail enthusiast, a thoughtfully curated collection of cocktail books can elevate your knowledge, inspire creativity, and deepen your appreciation for the art of mixology. These aren’t just recipe repositories. The best cocktail books serve as part reference guide, part history lesson, part source of inspiration. They’re dog-eared companions that teach you why balance matters, how technique influences flavor, and where your favorite drinks come from. Here’s a detailed look at some of the essential cocktail books that deserve a spot on every enthusiast’s shelf. 1. The Joy of Mixology by Gary Regan Gary "Gaz" Regan was one of the most respected voices in bartending, and The Joy of Mixology remains one of the most readable, well-organized introductions to cocktail philosophy. What s...

  Cocktails, like food, can be a reflection of the seasons. The flavors we crave in the heat of summer are different from those that comfort us in the chill of winter. By aligning your home mixology with the natural rhythm of the year, you not only make the most of fresh, seasonal ingredients—you also add an extra layer of enjoyment to each pour. Whether you're basking in the sun or curled up by the fire, here's how to craft cocktails that capture the essence of every season. Fall: Warm, Spiced & Earthy Autumn is about transition—cooler days, golden leaves, and a return to cozy flavors. Spirits like whiskey, apple brandy, and aged rum shine in fall, especially when paired with warm spices, orchard fruits, and bittersweet liqueurs. Maple Bourbon Sour A twist on the classic whiskey sour, this version uses real maple syrup for depth and richness. Ingredients: 2 oz bourbon 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice 1/2 oz pure maple syrup Dash of Angostura bitters (optional) ...

A home bar doesn’t have to be a luxury item reserved for those with endless space and disposable income. With a little creativity and thoughtful planning, anyone can curate a home bar that’s functional, stylish, and—most importantly—affordable. Whether you're a cocktail novice or an aspiring mixologist, the key is to focus on quality over quantity, versatility over volume, and smart investments over impulse buys. Let’s walk through how to build a bar that fits your lifestyle and your wallet. Start with Versatile Base Spirits You don’t need dozens of bottles to craft excellent drinks at home. What you really need are a few core spirits that play well in a variety of cocktails. Think of these as your foundational ingredients—spirits that offer the most flexibility and the most return on your investment. Vodka is a great starting point because of its neutrality. It’s perfect for refreshing drinks like a Moscow Mule or Vodka Soda, and it won’t compete with other flavors. Gin, with i...

To the untrained eye or palate  Cognac and Armagnac might appear to be two sides of the same French brandy coin. Both are elegant, oak-aged spirits made from grapes, both hail from southwestern France, and both are steeped in centuries of tradition. Yet among connoisseurs and distillers, the two stand worlds apart in style, production, and cultural identity. Understanding the difference between Cognac and Armagnac isn’t just about geography—it’s a journey into terroir , technique, and taste. Let’s unpack what sets these two noble spirits apart and why both deserve a place on your shelf. Geography: A Tale of Two Regions The most basic difference lies in where they’re produced: Cognac comes from the Charente and Charente-Maritime regions, just north of Bordeaux. Armagnac comes from Gascony , in the Gers, Landes, and Lot-et-Garonne departments, farther inland and southwest of Cognac. Both regions have AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) status, which means the pro...