Good Morning and Happy Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

Big Alcohol Loses Case, Face Refunds of Millions of Dollars

Diageo, Campari, Beam Suntory, Brown Forman and other companies face the prospect of having to refund tens of millions of dollars to the Liquor Control Board of Ontario. 

DISCUS, Local Distillers Support Lower Rtd Cocktail Tax

Maryland’s current tax structure places small distilleries like hers at a severe disadvantage in the fast-growing RTD market

A Shocker: RTDs Larger than Vodka or Whiskey in Volume

That was one of the insights Danny Brager, the industry consultant, presented to attendees at Acces Live! To be sure, spirit-based ready-to-drink cocktails acc

Americans Aren't Buying Benefits of Tariffs

If one of the big ideas behind tariffs is to encourage more re-shoring of U.S. manufacturing jobs, people aren’t buying it yet. What they ARE buying, Ipsos found, is more expensive goods.

Growth Refocuses on Prepared Cocktails

Prepared cocktails once again were the sole driver off growth in early February. Dollar sales rose 7.1% and case volume rose 1.4%, NIQ reports.

Researchers Seek 2d Skin to Protect Grapes from Smoke Damage

Researchers are testing a spray-on coating that could be applied to grapes before smoke arrives. The goal is simple: Create a thin layer on the grape skin that helps keep smoke compounds out.

Consumers Have Mixed Feelings on Corporate Activism

Americans have mixed sentiments on corporate activism. A majority say companies should remain neutral on social issues (57%) and political issues (56%). 

Presqu'ile First U.S. Winery to Debut Ana Inciardi Mini Print Vending Machine

Presqu'ile Winery is expanding its art programming with the installation of an Inciardi Mini Print Vending Machine in its tasting room, making it the first and only winery in the nation to host the artist's signature coin-operated art.

Black Girl Magic Expands Portfolio, Launches Sweet Red Frizzante

McBride Sisters Wine Co. announced the national rollout of Sweet Red Frizzante under its culturally iconic Black Girl Magic Wines brand.

New: Proper No. Twelve Black Irish Reserve

Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey launched a new product: Proper No. Twelve Black Reserve Irish Whiskey.  

Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars Marks the 50th Anniversary of Judgment of Paris

Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars marks a milestone year in 2026 as Napa Valley comes together to honor the 50th anniversary of the Judgment of Paris, the historic blind tasting that redefined global perceptions of American wine. 

Kyle Busch Hand-Picked Rebel Kentucky Single Barrel 2026

Rebel Bourbon, the official bourbon of Richard Childress Racing announced the release of Rebel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Single Barrel Selected By Kyle Busch.

Thanks for reading. I'll be back tomorrow. – Joel