Core Insights - MDWerks, Inc. announced the launch of Laughing Owl, a Manuka wood whisky produced by its subsidiary Two Trees Beverage Company, utilizing the patented Spirits Rapid Aging System (SRAS) technology [1][2] - The whisky combines premium American single malt from Virginia with Manuka wood from New Zealand, showcasing unique flavor profiles [2][3] - The partnership with Te Whekau Tapui Limited emphasizes a commitment to sustainability and innovation in spirit production [3] Company Overview - MDWerks, Inc. is a leader in sustainable technology, focusing on innovative solutions that help businesses reduce costs and enhance value [5] - Two Trees Beverage Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of MDWerks, specializes in creating fine spirits with a focus on sustainable aging processes [6] - The company has received multiple industry awards for its spirits brands, indicating a strong reputation in the market [6] Product Details - Laughing Owl whisky is characterized by its complex flavor profile, including aromas of caramel, vanilla, and spiced orchard fruit, achieved through a unique aging process [2][3] - The use of Manuka wood allows for natural flavor extraction without harmful chemicals, resulting in a differentiated product with silky tannins and a smooth finish [3] - The proprietary Sustainably Matured™ aging process enables the production of aged spirits using various wood types and charring levels [2][3]

Core Insights - American liquor exports experienced a 9% decline in the second quarter due to trade tensions affecting major markets [1] - The most significant drop was observed in Canada, where exports plummeted by 85%, despite the lifting of retaliatory tariffs [2] - Shipments to the UK and Japan also saw declines of over 23% each, while sales to the EU dropped by 12% [2][3] - These regions collectively account for 70% of the US liquor export market [3] - The whiskey sector is particularly impacted, with distillers facing record high inventories that have tripled since 2012, while domestic sales are stagnating [4] - The industry is calling for adjustments to trade policies to eliminate trade barriers, emphasizing the need for a zero-for-zero tariff environment [3] Industry Performance - The performance of the sector will be further evaluated with the upcoming earnings report from Constellation Brands [5]

Core Insights - The 2025 Concours Mondial de Bruxelles (CMB) awarded three single malts with Grand Gold, with Tri Carragh's "Dalrymple" winning the Revelation Scotch Whisky trophy as Best in Class [1][32] - The competition is recognized as one of the largest blind-tasted spirits contests globally, judged by experts from over 50 countries [2] Distillery and Product Highlights - Tri Carragh, a new indie bottler established in 2022, focuses on single-cask, natural-color, non-chill-filtered releases, primarily at cask strength [3][32] - The "Dalrymple" whisky is a cask-strength, first-fill Oloroso Lowlander with an ABV of 59.3% and priced at $90 [3] - The whisky is sourced from a very active Oloroso cask from a Lowland distillery, with limited distillers in the region [4] - Other notable whiskies include Tri Carragh Ardmore 17 YO, priced at $300, and SMWS 72.124, an 11-year-old PX Sherry butt whisky [7][10] Tasting Notes and Characteristics - The "Dalrymple" features aromas of molasses, dark maple, and chocolate, with a sweet and creamy palate showcasing flavors of blackcurrant and toffee pudding [6] - Tri Carragh Ardmore presents floral and sweet notes with a rich and creamy palate emphasizing vanilla and oak spices [9] - SMWS 72.124 offers rich dried black fruits and a velvety palate weight highlighting PX sweetness [12][13] Industry Trends - The CMB's 2025 Scotch whisky list reflects a dynamic category with a focus on sherry-influenced casks, refill bourbon, and independent bottlers emphasizing natural color and cask strength [32]

Core Insights - The alcoholic beverages sector has faced significant challenges in recent years, primarily due to distributors overordering inventory as sales surged post-pandemic [1]. Industry Overview - The sector has been characterized by a surplus of inventory, which has negatively impacted sales dynamics as the initial post-pandemic boom has not sustained [1]. Analyst Background - The analyst has extensive experience in Latin American markets, focusing on high-quality compounders and growth stocks at reasonable prices in both the US and developed markets [2].

Mahua was banned in India by the British Raj in the late 19th century, supposedly to protect public health. But liquor laws are being loosened, and mahua is becoming commercially available https://t.co/uvCxumVJD6 ...

Core Insights - UFC and Hpnotiq have entered a multiyear marketing partnership to enhance brand visibility at UFC events [1][2] - Hpnotiq will be an Official Partner of UFC, activating its brand at all Fight Nights in the United States [2][4] - The partnership aims to create engaging experiences for fans, leveraging UFC's extensive reach and promotional assets [3][5] Brand Activation and Visibility - Hpnotiq will receive prominent brand placement inside the Octagon at UFC Fight Nights, reaching over 700 million fans in 170 countries and approximately 950 million households [4] - The collaboration will include original content distributed via UFC's digital and social channels, targeting over 300 million users worldwide [5] Event Launch - The partnership will debut at UFC Fight Night: Sandhagen vs. Figueiredo on May 3, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa, featuring key bantamweight and middleweight bouts [6] Company Background - UFC is a leading mixed martial arts organization with a global fan base and extensive media reach, producing over 40 live events annually [7] - Hpnotiq is a popular liqueur known for its unique blend of fruit juices, vodka, and cognac, and is marketed by Heaven Hill Brands [8]