Editor’s Top Picks: Best Products of Summer – May Issue 2025

15 STARS

15 STARS recently released a never before made whiskey blend: 15 STARS Three Ports Fine-Aged Bourbon. This innovative blend combines 9- and 15-year-old Kentucky straight bourbons, finished in tawny, white, and ruby port barrels to create a complex tasting experience. The release is available at select retailers nationwide and online at 15STARS.com. Bottled at 103 proof, it presents a richly nuanced nose, leading with fruity aromas of concord grape, plum, and blueberry, alongside honeysuckle, vanilla extract, and dried fruit notes of apple, banana, pear, and peach. The well-balanced bouquet is underscored by hints of baking spice and seasoned oak. On the palate, an indulgent mouthfeel highlights blackberry, dates, pineapple juice, golden raisin, and meringue, followed by a smooth evolution into cinnamon, fresh wood, and light ground pepper, tempering the initial sweetness. The finish lingers with notes of mixed berries, fruit cake, grape, plum, and aged oak, leaving a lasting impression of depth and refinement.

 

Absinthia Absinthe Verte

Absinthia Absinthe Verte is a Swiss-style absinthe crafted with organic botanicals and Napa Valley grapes, offering a smooth, naturally sweet profile without added sugars or artificial colors. Its earthy, grassy flavor and natural sweetness make it ideal for classic cocktails like the Sazerac, Corpse Reviver No. 2, or Death in the Afternoon. This absinthe is vegan, gluten-free, and sugar-free, appealing to health-conscious consumers. Recognized for its quality, it has been praised as one of the best American absinthes.

 

Appleton Estate 21 Year-Old Nassau Valley Casks Rum

Appleton Estate 21 Year-Old Nassau Valley Casks Rum is made from rums aged a minimum of 21 years, blended, then married once more in casks for at least another year. Flavors of vanilla, caramel and butterscotch fill your mouth before finishing with a hint of spice. One of the great all around rums in the world.

 

Archer Roose Wines

Archer Roose Wines, the fast-growing canned wine brand, has launched its first new red varietal in five years: Pinot Noir. Harvested from the Murray region of Victoria, Australia with Australian winemaker Courteney Wills, Archer Roose Wines’ Pinot Noir features delightful notes of red berries, a hint of clove and balanced acidity. Like all Archer Roose Wines, new Pinot Noir is sustainably produced, suited to any occasion and made for moderation with a perfectly portioned pour from every can. At 13% ABV, all Archer Roose Wines are crafted with low-intervention winemaking practices, contain no added sugar or animal by-products, are vegan, gluten-free and made from sustainably grown grapes. Four-packs of the new Pinot Noir are now available for purchase on www.archerroose.com and at retailers, bars, restaurants and entertainment venues across the country.

 

atōst

atōst, the award-winning aperitif, was launched in 2020 by Cindy Pressman and her husband Kyle. Cindy’s appreciation for fresh, locally-grown ingredients is evident in atōst’s vibrant flavor profile which features hints of orange, strawberry and delicate rose. atōst celebrates the natural flavors of California and the Central Coast by sourcing its ingredients directly from the sun-soaked orchards and local farms throughout the region. Each bottle is handcrafted by the atōst team by zesting, chopping and blending the fresh fruits and botanicals before aging them in a California distilled grappa, extracting both color and flavor. The versatility of atōst allows for a home bartender or professional bartender to create any cocktail of their choice. Each 750ML bottle of atōst contains 18% ABV and can be found in-store and at select bars and restaurants throughout California and Colorado. atōst is also available to purchase online in select states for $35 a bottle.

 

Bear Fight Kentucky Reserve

Bear Fight Kentucky Reserve is an innovative Kentucky straight bourbon finished in reposado tequila barrels, resulting in a distinctive fusion of flavors. Crafted in North Carolina, this bourbon is aged for a minimum of three years before undergoing its unique finishing process and resulting in a bold, spicy high rye bourbon. On the nose, experience toasted oak, vanilla, a touch of cloves, hint of black pepper and cooked agave, with vanilla, caramel and peppery spice tasting notes, complemented by aromas of subtle tequila from the reposado and leading to a lingering, smoky finish. Bottled at 45% ABV, Bear Fight Kentucky Reserve exemplifies a harmonious blend of traditional bourbon craftsmanship and contemporary innovation. Smooth, delicious, approachable and affordable, this expression is unlike others on the market, with a process that optimizes finishing conditions to control the chaos inside the barrel – something that’s usually out of the maker’s control.

 

Beronia III a.C.

The wine is a deep plum color with initial notes of rose petal and cherry on the nose. It is incredibly flavorful and balanced, with touches of spice, mint, and cacao on the palate along with the fruit, which provides a freshness to this long-lasting wine. Sourced from vineyards which are over 130 years old. Made from vines that survived the phylloxera epidemic in the Rioja vineyards in the 19th century. The winemaking process: The selected grapes come from the oldest, most prized vines, and the decades spent carefully tending to them has resulted in the most intense and intricately flavoured fruit. After a careful harvest, the grapes undergo cold maceration. This process extracts the very best aromas and flavours from the grapes, prior to fermentation. The wine is then developed through careful aging in new French oak barrels for one year.

 

Sportsman Bourbon_Art of the Fly

Art of the Fly is Bluebird Distilling’s second trial in an ongoing series of well-aged bourbon whiskey inspired by the rugged, refined spirit of the outdoorsman. A premium tribute to those who love adventure, Sportsman Bourbon is a high-proof, distinctive bourbon aged for 8 years featuring a mash bill of 60% PA Bloody Butcher Corn, 20% Heirloom Rye, 10% Lancaster Winter Wheat, and 10% Malted Barley. When sipping Sportsman Bourbon, imbibers will be able to smell notes of caramel and fresh pie, flavors of corn bread, vanilla, and toffee at mid-palate, along with a finish semi-sweet baking spice, pepper, and dark fruit.

 

Char & Stave Classic Coffee Liqueur

Char & Stave Classic Coffee Liqueur is crafted using Char & Stave Arabica Coffee (sourced from small farmers and Micro lots throughout the world) and Bluebird Distilling Vodka, one batch at a time with no artificial flavors. The spirit presents soft vanilla and roasted dark chocolate notes up front, with a semi-sweet finish of velvety coffee. Shines in an Espresso Martini, White Russian, or “Night Cap” (3 oz. on the rocks).

 

Courvoisier VSOP Cognac

Courvoisier VSOP Cognac is a refined blend aged between 8 to 12 years, combining eaux-de-vie from the Borderies, Petite Champagne, Grande Champagne, and Fins Bois crus. This maturation process imparts a rich amber hue and a complex aroma profile featuring ripe stone fruits, toasted oak, and subtle spices. On the palate, it offers a velvety texture with notes of honey, caramel, and hints of candied orange peel. The finish is harmonious, leaving a lasting impression of elegance and sophistication.

 

Cutwater Spirits Spicy Mango Margarita

Cutwater Spirits is turning up the heat with its latest launch: the Spicy Mango Margarita. This bold new addition to the award-winning ready-to-drink lineup combines the tropical sweetness of ripe mango with a fiery kick of spice, balanced by Cutwater’s signature smooth tequila. Designed for effortless enjoyment, the Spicy Mango Margarita delivers a bartender-quality cocktail straight from the can—no mixing required. Whether poured over ice or enjoyed as-is, it’s the perfect blend of sweet, tart, and heat. Ideal for summer gatherings, BBQs, or anytime a refreshing, spicy twist on a classic margarita is needed, this new release brings bold flavor with zero hassle. As Cutwater continues to innovate in the canned cocktail space, the Spicy Mango Margarita offers another go-to option for those who love a little extra kick in their sip. Keep an eye out for this fiery new favorite at retailers nationwide.

 

Desolas Mezcal

Desolas Mezcal is an artisanally crafted spirit that is thoughtfully produced from 100% Salmiana Agave found in the state of San Luis Potosi, Mexico. The Salmiana agave, also known as the “green giant,” is cooked in above-ground ovens resulting in a mezcal with a fresh botanical aroma and gentle smoke. Its grassy, earthy and agave-forward character is a product of the arid and chalking soil of San Luis Potosi. The female-founded, 2024 NYSWC Best of Class Winner, premium mezcal brand can be found in 6 states – New York, Florida, Georgia, Texas, Colorado, and California and can be shipped nationwide at www.desolasmezcal.com.

 

Edmond’s Honor

Edmond’s Honor is an ultra-premium bourbon whiskey that delivers an exceptional experience in every glass. Crafted with meticulous artistry and enriched with Madagascar vanilla extract-soaked cognac casks, our bourbon offers a distinctive and sophisticated taste. Inspired by the untold story of Edmond Albius, a Malagasy botanist who revolutionized vanilla cultivation in the 1800s, Edmond’s Honor celebrates the richness of history and the power of artistry and discovery. Barrel-aged to perfection, each pour invites exploration and connection with the past while enhancing appreciation for the present. Edmond’s Honor is a tribute to the art of bourbon. A story in every pour.

 

Espolòn Tequila Blanco

Espolòn Tequila Blanco is the purest expression, crafted with 100% Blue Weber Agave and double distilled for a smooth, balanced taste. Crystal clear with sweet agave, tropical fruit, and lemon zest aromas, it has a light-to-medium body with a hint of pepper and a clean vanilla-pineapple finish. Ideal for cocktails or sipping.

 

Fabrizia’s ready to drink Limoncello Spritz

Fabrizia’s new ready to drink Limoncello Spritz canned cocktails are made with just 3 ingredients: Premium Italian sparkling wine, Fabrizia all natural Limoncello (crafted with Sicilian lemons from their own Lemon Grove in Sicily, Italy) and soda water. Fabrizia’s RTD Limoncello Spritz canned cocktails contain a symphony of flavors that transports you to the sun-drenched landscapes of the Italian Coast. Crafted with precision and infused with the soul of Italy, every sip encapsulates the essence of summer creating a flavor experience unlike any other. Crafted with the same commitment to excellence that defines Fabrizia, their new Limoncello Spritz canned cocktails are a testament to their brand’s unwavering dedication to quality, authenticity, and the pursuit of beverage perfection. Fabrizia is inviting you to join the movement and let their Limoncello Spritz canned cocktails elevate your upcoming summer experience to unprecedented heights!

 

 

Gardenista Bourbon Cocktail

Gardenista Bourbon Cocktail is a premium ready-to-serve cocktail that defies common convention and blends garden flavors of herbs, fresh lime juice, thyme, cane sugar, ginger and a kick of jalapeño. Launched in September 2024, Gardenista is an innovative, ingredient-focused cocktail that elevates the drinking experience. Gardenista draws inspiration from the popular Gardener cocktail at Matsuhisa in Colorado. Gardenista Vodka is made with 100 percent corn and distilled seven times with a smooth and crisp finish. Gardenista is meant to be shaken and served straight up, poured over ice or made into a spritz. One bottle of Gardenista serves five cocktails, is low-calorie with 98 calories per serving and is 15% ABV. The brand is independently owned and operated, founded by a collective of high-level experts. Gardenista’s founders have launched various spirit brands such as Effen Vodka and worked with Fortune 500 companies including Constellation, Coors, Bacardi and PepsiCo.

 

Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge

Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge is a renowned orange liqueur that combines the richness of cognac with the vibrant essence of Caribbean oranges. This liqueur offers a unique and sophisticated balance of flavors, with the bitterness of orange blending seamlessly with the smoothness of the cognac base. It has a rich, amber color and a complex aroma, with notes of candied orange and vanilla. On the palate, it delivers a full-bodied experience with a perfect harmony of orange zest and subtle cognac nuances, leaving a long-lasting and satisfying finish. Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge is versatile and can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in various cocktails.

 

A Dozen Rosés Gift Set

A Dozen Rosés Gift Set from In Good Taste offers a fresh take on wine tasting, featuring twelve distinct rosés from around the world—including their bold, infused “Spicy Rosé.” This beautifully redesigned box features numbered doors for a fun 12-day countdown, perfect for celebrating any special occasion. Inside, wine lovers will discover never-before-released wines crafted exclusively for this collection. Each mini bottle includes a perfect 6oz pour, ideal for sharing or savoring solo. With free shipping included, this set is a thoughtful and delicious gift for anyone who enjoys exploring new wines—one rosé at a time.

 

Butter Chardonnay by JaM Cellars

Crafted with the same grapes selected for Butter Chardonnay by JaM Cellars at their perfect ripeness, ButterLight has flavors of bright lemon mousse laced with creamy vanilla and shortbread crumbles and comes in at just 8.5% ABV and 85 calories per glass. ButterLight is a terrific choice for those seeking a lighter wine option without sacrificing flavor and quality. Found in grocery stores across the country, the widely-recognizable Butter yellow label has become synonymous with great quality at amazing value.

 

Jean-Luc Colombo Terres Brulees

Deep red with a very intense colour and purple glints. Very elegant with notes of ripe fruits such as blackcurrant, dark cherries and blackberries, as well as spices, licorice and cocoa. A very rich mouth with powerful but elegant tannins. Great lengthy finish.

 

KHEE

KHEE elevates Korea’s iconic spirit to a new level of sophistication. Distilled with meticulous care using the finest rice and natural rock water from 150 meters below ground. Created and directed by Eva Chow, KHEE(氣) — meaning “energy” in Korean—connects with her philosophy of believing in good energy. KHEE is derived from Eva’s Korean name “HEE” and middle initial “K” to form KHEE. KHEE Premium Soju is a masterclass in tradition and purity. Distilled using time-honored methods, this gluten-free spirit contains no artificial additives—just clean, crisp character in every pour. Its smooth, balanced profile makes it an effortless choice for sipping straight or shaking into your favorite cocktail. A modern essential for any recipe calling for white spirits, KHEE brings elegance and versatility to the glass. Elegant, versatile, and always memorable—this is soju, reimagined. Cheers to a new classic.

 

Knob Creek 9 Year Old Bourbon

Knob Creek 9 Year Old Bourbon is a full-bodied Kentucky straight bourbon, patiently aged for nine years in charred American white oak barrels. Bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV), it delivers a bold, well-rounded flavor with big notes of oak, caramel and fruit. Rooted in pre-prohibition tradition and crafted for those who value bold flavor and expert craftsmanship, this bourbon is perfect sipped straight, cooled slightly with an ice cube or used in a favorite food or cocktail recipe. Knob Creek 9 Year Old Bourbon is available nationwide at a suggested retail price of $36.99 for a 750ml bottle.

 

Korbel Brut

America’s favorite California champagne, Korbel Brut is refined, with a balanced, medium-dry finish. Lively aromas of citrus and cinnamon lead to crisp flavors of orange, lime, vanilla and a hint of strawberry. Use as a base for brunch mimosas or enjoy with food such as caviar, fried foods, salty snacks, shellfish.

 

KOVAL Bourbon

With a mash bill of 51% corn and 49% millet, KOVAL Bourbon offers a drinking experience that is balanced, approachable, and unparalleled. The inclusion of millet makes this bourbon unlike any you’ve tried before, softening that typical bourbon heat. The unusual grain combination provides notes of mango chutney and vanilla on the palate, with a peppery caramel finish for an expression that sips lavishly on its own or mixes easily into your favorite cocktail- try it in a bourbon lemonade for the Summer!

 

La Crema Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

2023 La Crema Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir: This benchmark wine from one of Sonoma’s leading producers is sustainably made and sourced from primarily estate vineyards across the Sonoma Coast. Aged 5-6 months in 100% French oak, 20% new, this wine has beautiful concentration and firm yet integrated tannins with bright acidity that drives a long finish. Aromas of raspberry, cranberry, black licorice, and exotic tea notes.  Flavors of red cherry, plum, and boysenberry, subtle hints of espresso and cocoa nib underpin notes of spice and toast. The bold red fruits in the Pinot Noir pairs nicely with bacon-wrapped stuffed dates, and light and airy chocolate mousse.

 

Lake Hour

Lake Hour is all about great drinks and even better vibes. Co-founders Rich Peete and Wyatt Russell set out to create a refreshing, spiked seltzer with real ingredients, no artificial sweetness, elevated flavors, and zero next-day regrets. They kept it simple but classy, using premium vodka, authentic blanco tequila, and just a touch of natural cane sugar for balance. Honeysuckle Ginger, Peach Jasmine, and Rosemary Yuzu add an unexpected edge to vodka, while Watermelon Cucumber with tequila keeps things crisp and refreshing. The variety pack includes two of each, making it easy to switch things up. Lake Hour captures the feeling of unwinding by the water, surrounded by good company and unforgettable moments. Inspired by Rich and Wyatt’s own lake house childhoods, every sip carries the carefree energy of summers well spent.

 

Libby Non-Alcoholic Wine

For those craving the crisp and refreshing effervescence of sparkling wine without the hangover, Libby Non-Alcoholic Wine will be the new sip of the summer. Designed for those prioritizing wellness and balance, Libby introduces sparkling dealcoholized wines that offer a full-flavor experience produced using sustainably farmed grapes from California. With only 35 calories per glass, the wines are featured in lighter-weight 750ml bottles equipped with a resealable swing top – a more sustainable option perfect for preservation and on-the-go enjoyment. A favorite is the Libby Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Rosé. The lively bubbles present a delightful symphony of summer strawberries and candied melon aromas with a touch of brioche. A perfect everyday bubbly enjoyed by the glass, or in your next mocktail recipe. Libby Non-Alcoholic Wine is now available at Sprouts Farmer’s Market nationwide. 

 

Mutiny Island Vodka

Mutiny Island Vodka, a double gold medal-winning spirit, is distilled with breadfruit and pure Caribbean rainwater, bringing the vibrant flavors of the Virgin Islands straight to your glass. This ultra-premium vodka offers a smooth, subtly sweet finish, ideal for sipping or mixing into tropical-inspired cocktails. Crafted sustainably with natural, sun-kissed ingredients and a zero-waste process, Mutiny Island Vodka embodies resilience, innovation and adventure—all at an affordable price. As the world’s first vodka distilled from breadfruit, Mutiny Island Vodka embodies the essence of the Caribbean with its distinctive, clean taste and luxurious smoothness while maintaining a dedication to quality and sustainability. This innovative spirit operates as a zero-waste facility, boasting “nutrient water” that can be recycled for agricultural use. Mutiny Island Vodka offers Original, Ginger + Turmeric Roots, Smoked Hot Pepper, and Puerto Rican Coffee infusions, with the Original Vodka as a 2025 standout.

 

Naginata

Naginata is a limited production Junmai Daiginjo saké brewed by brewmaster Takumi Kuwabara in SakéOne’s Forest Grove kura (brewery) utilizing the abundant, soft water of Oregon’s beautiful coastal range. A saké specific rice called Yamada Nishiki, grown by a single grower in Arkansas, was chosen for this project. The rice was milled to 40%, meaning the outer 60% of each grain was removed in order to utilize the starch-rich center of the grain called the shinpaku. Polishing rice in this fashion results in a clean, focused saké with fruity and floral characteristics. A proprietary yeast was used for fermentation to further highlight the fruit and floral notes. “We made many test batches before deciding on a final approach,” says brewmaster Takumi Kuwabara. “We experimented with multiple rice polish levels, yeasts, and brewing techniques until we got it just right. We’ve waited over 20 years for this, so we weren’t going to rush anything.”

 

As the Irish Whiskey category continues to grow, Natterjack Irish Whiskey has become a fierce competitor in the space, showcasing its unique approach to production that highlights both Irish and American aging techniques. Since being named “Irish Whiskey of the Year 2024” by Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible, Natterjack Cask Strength has been winning over enthusiasts with its bold and complex character. The nose opens with intense aromas of vanilla, toasted oak, warm spices, then rich layers of caramel, dried fruit, and a hint of leather. On the palate, the whiskey delivers a powerful punch—yet remains smooth—with notes of dark chocolate, cinnamon, and charred wood. The finish is warming, with a lingering spice and gentle smokiness. Whether enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water to open it up, Natterjack Cask Strength is a bold statement in contemporary Irish whiskey craft. Available at Total Wine & More nationwide. 

 

Nearest Green Tennessee Whiskey

Discover the exceptional craftsmanship that has crowned Uncle Nearest the most-awarded bourbon globally for six consecutive years through Nearest Green Tennessee Whiskey, celebrating the godfather of Tennessee whiskey at a more approachable proof. Each bottle crafted by 4-time Master Blender of the Year and 5th-generation Green descendant, Victoria Eady Butler, this 84-proof Tennessee whiskey is perfect for sipping neat or mixing into your favorite cocktails.

 

Necesita Tequila’s Cristalino of Reposado

For those who appreciate the craft behind the cocktail, Necesita Tequila’s Cristalino of Reposado delivers clarity without compromise. This expertly filtered Reposado retains its oak-aged complexity—think warm vanilla, caramelized agave, and a kiss of citrus—while offering an impossibly smooth, crystal-clear finish. Whether served neat or elevating your next cocktail, it’s a tequila that reminds us: sometimes, the best pairing for life’s moments is a perfectly poured sip.

 

Peg Leg Porker Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Crafted by award-winning pitmaster Carey Bringle, Peg Leg Porker Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a testament to the art of smoke and oak. This unique bourbon, distilled and aged in Tennessee for 4-6 years, undergoes a distinctive finishing process through hickory charcoal, resulting in a spirit that marries the warmth of bourbon with the soul of barbecue. The mash bill creates a rich, full-bodied bourbon with notes of caramel, vanilla and toasted oak, while the hickory charcoal finish adds a layer of complexity, imparting a subtle smokiness. A must-try for whiskey enthusiasts and barbecue aficionados alike, Peg Leg Porker’s White Label was recognized as the “World’s Best Bourbon” at the 2023 Tasting Alliance World Championship, received Double Gold standards at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, a Gold honor at the 2024 ASCOT Awards and a Double Gold honor and a Consumers’ Choice award at the 2024 SIP Awards.