Good Morning and Happy Tuesday, February 3, 2026.

OIV Announces 5 Research Programs to Address Major Challenges Facing Sector

The International Organization of Wine & Vine (OIV) awarded five grants for research on major challenges facing the viticultural sector. They deal with sustainable viticulture, adaptation to climate change, resiliance of the viniviticultural value chain, and technological innovations.

Double Mountain Brewery Adds Cans to Packaging

Normally, a brewery adding cans to its packaging mix wouldn't be a big deal. But when Double Mountain Brewery, Hood river, Ore., announced it was adding aluminum cans, it was a big deal.

Ernest Vineyards Closing

“Like many small producers, it’s a very challenging time with costs escalating and sales declining,” owner Erin Brooks told the San Francisco Chronicle. “It’s really quite that simple."

Edmond's Honor Vanilla Madagascar Bourbon Wins 2026 WSWA Brand Battle

Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) crowned Edmond's Honor Vanilla Madagascar Bourbon the winner of the 2026 Brand Battle Tournament at Access LIVE, WSWA's convention. 

The Macallan Debuts New Scotch Celebrating James Bond

To mark the 55th anniversary of "Diamonds Are Forever," The Macallan has unveiled a new limited edition 18 Year Old single malt: The Macallan Diamonds Are Forever 55th Anniversary Release.

New: Buzzard's Roost Four Grain Double Oak Bourbon

Buzzard's Roost Distillery introduces Buzzard’s RoostFour Grain Double Oak Bourbon. This new offering showcases the distillery's commitment to exploring complex flavor profiles through its proprietary double oak process-this time using bourbon distilled from four grains.

Chris Stapleton's Traveller Whiskey Stars in Sazerac's 1st Super Bowl Ad

Sazerac Co. will air its first Super Bowl ad shortly before kickoff Sunday on NBC and Telemundo. 

Beware of Merchant Cash Advance Financing

If a wholesaler's customers uses merchant cash financing (MCA), beware. Most state laws protect bev/al wholesalers against the dangers of merchant cash advance financing by requiring either cash on delivery or complete payment monthly.