Liquor Industry News 09-07-26

Liquor Industry News 09-07-26

Here is a summary of the Liquor Industry News round-up (published September 7, 2026, by Mark C. Lenzi of Franklin Liquors):

New Product Releases & Launches

• Estival Chenin Blanc: Ste. Michelle Wine Estates (Washington) launched a new bottling under its Estival line following last year’s Sauvignon Blanc, aimed at meeting U.S. demand for aromatic whites.
• Korbel Aire: California’s Korbel introduced a low-alcohol sparkling wine entry (7% ABV, 70 calories per serving) retailing at $14.

Wine News & Region Highlights

• Impact of Tariffs: U.S. wine imports dropped significantly in both volume and value in the first half of 2026, according to Spanish Wine Interprofessional Organisation (OIVE) data on Trump tariffs.
• Ancient Areni Grapes: Armenia's flagship red grape, Areni, is gaining international acclaim after rising from relative obscurity.
• Vermentino Profile: A breakdown of Italian Vermentino, highlighting its coastal style, crispness, and aging capacity across regions like Liguria, Tuscany, and Sardinia.
• Irish Vineyards: Small, determined winemakers in Ireland are expanding their footprint in a country traditionally known for stout and whiskey.
• Oregon Wine Industry Profile: A feature on Amy Prosenjak, the woman behind 1 in 4 bottles of Oregon wine sold in the U.S.
• Wine Science (Wax Seals): A scientific study examines whether using wax on wine bottle tops offers a better barrier against oxygen ingress than standard capsules.
• Culinary Pairing: Full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon is highlighted as one of the best choices for braising ribs.

Spirits & Cocktail Trends

• Bourbon Lotteries: Due to high demand and reseller price markups, state-run lotteries are becoming a popular way for consumers to buy rare bourbons at fair prices.
• Rum Guide: An overview clarifying the differences between light, gold, dark, and sipping rums.
• Old Fashioned Prices: A nationwide state-by-state price map comparing the average cost of an Old Fashioned cocktail across the U.S.
• Global Trends: A roundup listing the 50 most popular cocktails globally in 2026.

Beer & Other Beverage Trends

• Beer Soda & Tequila Tourism: Short guides covering beginner topics including beer soda, visiting tequila distilleries, and Wisconsin wines.
• Rolling Rock Trivia: Facts behind Rolling Rock beer and the mysterious "33" code printed on its bottles.
• Summer Beer Market: Analysis showing beer sales struggled to rebound after the World Cup, alongside recommendations for top chef-approved summer beers.