China has agreed to reduce import tariffs on UK whiskies, including Scotch, following visit from the UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to Beijing this week. A statement today (30 January) the Chinese Ministry of Commerce said "a provisional import tariff rate of 5% will be applied to whisky" as of Monday (2 February). A press release from the UK government said tariffs were being reduced on Scotch from 10 to 5%. Just Drinks understands however a tariff reduction is being applied by China to all whiskies p ...

Industry Overview - The spirits industry is experiencing significant financial distress due to several factors, including the lasting effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, rising operating costs from inflation, a decline in demand for alcoholic beverages, and various legal issues [1] Bankruptcy Filings - A number of distilleries have filed for bankruptcy in 2025, including Boston Harbor Distillery, which filed for Chapter 11 on March 31 to reorganize its business [2] - Following Boston Harbor, House Spirits Distillery filed for Subchapter V bankruptcy on April 6, and Devils River Distillery filed for Chapter 11 on May 1 to continue operations [3] - Other notable bankruptcies include SVG 26 LLC on September 25 and 52eighty Distilling Corporation on October 14, with A.M. Scott Distillery filing for Chapter 11 on December 22 [4] Stoli Group Developments - Stoli Group USA and Kentucky Owl initially filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on November 27, 2024, due to severe financial distress from over $78 million in secured debt [7] - On January 15, 2025, Stoli Group sought to convert its Chapter 11 filing to Chapter 7 liquidation after failing to reach an agreement with its senior lender [5] - Control of the U.S. entities will be transferred to a court-appointed trustee to oversee the liquidation process [6]

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the importance of balancing visits to historic sites and craft distilleries for first-time travelers on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail [4] Group 1: Historic Distilleries - Historic distilleries provide insights into Kentucky's bourbon history, featuring tours of century-old warehouses and copper stills [2] - These tours include structured tastings that explore the science and supply chain of bourbon production, along with barrel-aging demonstrations and bottling line walk-throughs [2] Group 2: Craft Distilleries - Craft distilleries offer a small-batch atmosphere and personal interaction with distillers, showcasing experimental mash bills and intimate storytelling [2] - Visitors gain a closer look at the artistry behind each bottle, enhancing their overall experience [2] Group 3: Practical Considerations - The Hoffs recommend seeking tours labeled "barrel rickhouse" or "behind-the-scenes" for immersive experiences [3] - It is suggested to allocate at least ninety minutes per stop to fully appreciate the cultural and technical aspects of each distillery [3] - This approach combines structure with discovery, enriching the understanding of bourbon culture [3]

Industry Overview - A number of key whiskey brands and distilleries filed for bankruptcy in 2025, attributed to weakening demand and a shift from rapid expansion to measured recalibration [1] - U.S. whiskey volumes fell 4.1% in 2024, marking the first decline in domestic case shipments since 2008 [1] Export Trends - U.S. distilled spirits exports fell 9% year-over-year in the second quarter of 2025, following a strong performance in 2024, primarily due to ongoing trade tensions [2] - Exports of U.S. spirits to Canada plummeted 85%, dropping below $10 million in the second quarter of 2025, with sales in Canada declining 68% in April 2025 [6] - Exports to the EU, the largest market for U.S. spirits, fell 12% to $290.3 million, while exports to the UK dropped 29% to $26.9 million and those to Japan decreased 23% to $21.4 million [6] Company-Specific Issues - Garrard County Distilling Co. (GCDC) faced significant financial difficulties, owing at least $28 million, primarily to Truist Bank, and has been placed in receivership after less than 14 months of operation [4][5] - GCDC was a $250 million project and was marketed as Kentucky's largest independent distillery, producing All Nations Bourbon, Rye Whiskey, and American Single Malt [5]

Core Insights - MDWerks, Inc. reported a significant revenue increase of 85% sequentially from $421,000 in Q2 2025 to $780,000 in Q3 2025, primarily driven by Whiskey-as-a-Service (WaaS) revenue at Two Trees Beverage Company and increased product revenue at RF Specialties, LLC [2][3] - The company is focused on long-term sustainable growth and profitability, with positive year-over-year revenue comparisons when excluding non-recurring service revenue from the previous year [3] Two Trees Beverage Company - Two Trees' revenue increased by 92% sequentially from $250,000 in Q2 2025 to $480,000 in Q3 2025, attributed to new customer contracts for white-label aging services [4] - The company anticipates continued growth as it builds and deploys Spirits Rapid Aging Systems (SRAS) for new customers, including a major U.S. distillery, which is expected to enhance recurring revenue [5][6] - Two Trees is actively pursuing additional SRAS deployments with major U.S. distilleries and exploring international markets, highlighting the efficiency and sustainability of its proprietary aging technology [6] - A new larger SRAS unit is set to increase production capacity fivefold, expected to be operational by December 2025, further expanding white-label aging services [7] - Two Trees has received multiple industry awards, including a Gold Medal at the 2025 New York World Spirits Competition, enhancing its brand recognition [8] RF Specialties, LLC - RF Specialties' revenue increased by 75% sequentially from $171,000 in Q2 2025 to $300,000 in Q3 2025, driven by the installation of a Molecular Sawdust Drying System for a leading lumber company [11] - The company expects follow-on orders as the customer expands the system's throughput, indicating potential for growth in the lumber market [12] - RF Specialties anticipates a smoother revenue stream as initial systems lead to additional orders, reflecting the scalability of its technology [13] Technology and Innovation - MDWerks positions itself as a technology company, leveraging patented molecular targeting technology to enhance traditional processes and promote sustainability [14] - The company aims to explore new applications of its technology across various industries, indicating a commitment to innovation and growth [14] Future Outlook - MDWerks is optimistic about its growth trajectory in 2026, with a strong foundation being built for future opportunities [15]

Core Insights - Westward Whiskey has sold the majority of its assets to private investors after filing for Chapter 11 protection, with the sale approved by the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware [1][3] - The buyer group, Aqua Ardens, aims to continue Westward Whiskey as a going concern and grow the brand, acquiring essential assets including intellectual property, production equipment, and inventory [2][3] - The bankruptcy process was deemed necessary to address liquidity shortfalls and market challenges, with the company expecting solid growth for 2025, reporting a 53% increase in sales compared to the previous year [4][6] Company Details - The transaction is expected to close by November 3, and the CEO, Thomas Mooney, will continue to lead the business without any job losses resulting from the sale [2][4] - Aqua Ardens, the investor group, had previously financed Westward during its bankruptcy process and is a new entity formed specifically for this acquisition [3][7] - The new ownership structure is anticipated to provide flexibility to focus on successful business areas, including the Westward Whiskey Club and direct-to-consumer sales [6]

Core Insights - MDWerks, Inc. announced that its subsidiary, Two Trees Beverage Company, won a Gold Badge in the Best of Asheville 2025 contest, marking the third consecutive year of this recognition [1][3] - Two Trees Beverage Company has also received multiple awards, including a Gold Medal at the 2025 New York World Spirits Competition and three 2025 SIP Awards, showcasing the effectiveness of its sustainable aging method [2] Company Overview - MDWerks, Inc. is focused on sustainable technology and energy wave technologies, aiming to provide innovative solutions that help businesses reduce costs and enhance value [4] - Two Trees Beverage Company specializes in creating fine spirits using a Sustainably Matured™ aging method, which reduces wood consumption and carbon footprint while maintaining high-quality taste [2][5] - RF Specialties, LLC, another subsidiary of MDWerks, implements automated radio frequency technology systems to address industry challenges sustainably [6]

Core Insights - Breckenridge Distillery has launched a new lineup of limited-edition spirits to celebrate its fifth consecutive year as the official partner of the Denver Broncos, including Breckenridge Broncos Honey Whiskey, Broncos Creamsicle Vodka Seltzer, and a special edition camo-labeled Breckenridge Bourbon [1][10] Product Offerings - Breckenridge Broncos Honey Whiskey features Goldswarm honey from West Africa, providing a smooth, golden finish with tasting notes of warm molasses, holiday spice, and toasted oak, priced at $34.99 [4][6] - Camo Breckenridge Bourbon Whiskey is a tribute to the 10th anniversary of the 2015 World Championship, wrapped in camo, showcasing the distillery's flagship bourbon [5] - Broncos Creamsicle Vodka Seltzer combines Breckenridge Vodka with bright citrus and creamy vanilla, available for $13.99 [8][12] - Broncos Single Barrel – Championship Reserve is a high-end expression with only 250 bottles available, crafted from 100% Breckenridge grain, celebrating the 2015 championship season [9] Availability and Marketing - The limited-edition Broncos lineup will be available at Colorado retailers starting September 4, encouraging fans to shop local and stock up before the season kickoff [10] - Bryan Nolt, founder of Breckenridge Distillery, emphasized the collection as a celebration of Colorado and the Broncos' championship legacy [10] Company Background - Breckenridge Distillery, founded in 2008, is known for its award-winning blended bourbon whiskey and is recognized as the "World's Highest Distillery" [13] - The distillery has received numerous accolades, including being a 3x Icons of Whisky and 10x Best American Blended winner at the World Whiskies Awards [14]

Core Insights - Breckenridge Distillery has launched a new product called Mountain Shot, which is a whiskey-based and malt-based beverage infused with maitake mushrooms, offering a unique drinking experience that reflects the spirit of the Rocky Mountains [1][6][4] Product Overview - Mountain Shot is available in whiskey-based and malt-based varieties, with the whiskey-based version produced at 69 proof and available in 750-milliliter, 1-liter bottles, and 100-milliliter resealable pouches. The malt-based version is produced at 30 proof and will be available in 100-milliliter pouches at convenience stores [3][4] - The infusion of maitake mushrooms adds a distinct mouthfeel and complexity to the drink, enhancing the overall flavor profile [3][5] Company Background - Breckenridge Distillery, founded in 2008, is known as the "World's Highest Distillery" and has received numerous awards for its spirits, including multiple accolades at the World Whiskies Awards and the San Francisco World Spirits Competition [7][8] - The distillery emphasizes craftsmanship and innovation, aiming to challenge conventions in whiskey production while honoring traditional methods [4][6] Market Positioning - Mountain Shot is positioned as a beverage for adventurous consumers who enjoy outdoor activities and social gatherings, making it suitable for consumption in various settings, such as mountainsides or bars [4][6] - The product is part of a broader strategy to connect with consumers by offering a unique and portable drinking experience that aligns with their lifestyle [5][6]

Core Viewpoint - MDWerks, Inc. announced the commencement of production for Crusher Claw, a private label flavored whiskey, in partnership with Pinchy's Restaurant Group, enhancing the dining experience and expanding market reach [1][2]. Company Overview - MDWerks, Inc. is a forward-thinking company focused on sustainable technology and energy wave technologies, aiming to reduce costs and drive business value for its clients [3]. - The company operates through its wholly owned subsidiary, Two Trees Beverage Company, which specializes in creating fine spirits sustainably aged and has received multiple industry awards [4]. Product and Partnership Details - Two Trees Beverage Company is producing Crusher Claw in sea salt caramel and cinnamon flavors at its facilities in Fletcher, North Carolina, for Pinchy's Restaurant Group, which owns the rights to the brand [1][2]. - The partnership with Pinchy's is seen as a promising growth opportunity for Two Trees, with a focus on strategic partnerships and advancing the market reach of its Spirits Rapid Aging System (SRAS) technology [2].