Editor’s Top Picks: Products of the Year – December Issue 2025

Altos

As demand for premium tequila continues to surge, Pernod Ricard’s Altos tequila is making a bold statement with the launch of a striking new bottle. Inspired by its artisanal production and deep-rooted Mexican heritage, the eye-catching redesign is set to boost Altos’ visibility on-shelf and on back bars across the globe, while championing sustainability, all while maintaining the same quality liquid. Starting with its largest market, the new packaging began rolling out October 1. As one of the top 10 super premium tequilas in the US and consistently voted a top tequila for Margaritas and Palomas by bartenders globally2, Altos already has strong brand presence globally. The evolution of the new design builds on the equity by preserving iconic features, like its distinct wooden lid, while dialing up its premium, crafted appeal. Inspired by Mexico’s vibrant rótulos – hand-painted street signs known for their expressive character and typography – the new bottle celebrates the “Maker Spirit” at the heart of Altos’ artisanal process, bringing the brand’s heritage to life visually, while paying homage to authentic Mexican culture. It’s a purpose perfectly captured in the brand’s ‘bold new look, same exceptional tequila’ tagline.

 

AMERICAN HERITAGE® Chocolate

AMERICAN HERITAGE® Chocolate Tasting Squares bring history to the palate in a perfectly portioned bite. Inspired by 18th century chocolate recipes, each individually wrapped square features a signature blend of spices including cinnamon, nutmeg, orange peel, anise, and chile pepper for a mildly spicy, slightly sweet flavor unlike any modern chocolate. Made with all natural ingredients and no preservatives, the 57 percent cacao recipe reflects how early Americans enjoyed chocolate, offering consumers a delicious taste of the past. As a chocolate brand dedicated to history and education, AMERICAN HERITAGE Chocolate has partnered with over 100 historic sites and museums across North America to share chocolate’s 3500 year journey through demonstrations, tastings, and storytelling. Beloved by culinary professionals, history enthusiasts, and museum guests, the Tasting Squares deliver a flavorful and transportive experience that is perfect for gifting, learning, or savoring one bite at a time.

 

Better Than Booze

Better Than Booze is rewriting the rules of happy hour. Born in Nashville, this award-winning brand is all about giving people better ways to cheers, no alcohol required. Their Classic Non-Alcoholic Variety Pack features three pitch-perfect dupes of cocktail favorites: Rosemary Grapefruit Paloma, Mint Mojito with Lime, and Elderberry Gin & Tonic. Each can is crafted with natural flavors, is vegan and gluten-free, and comes in under 70 calories. Designed to deliver the same flavor, fizz, and sophistication as their spirited counterparts, Better Than Booze gives consumers a reason to celebrate without compromise. Whether you’re the designated driver, sober-curious, or simply skipping the hangover, these mocktails make every occasion, from dinner parties to Sunday brunches, taste a little better.

 

Bite Me Tonic

In a market full of health tonics, Bite Me Tonic stands apart for its authenticity, quality, and roots in family tradition. Developed by founder Nikola and inspired by generations of wellness wisdom, this all-natural tonic combines organic apple cider vinegar, Manuka honey, ginger, turmeric, and citrus for a smooth, refreshing taste—free from additives and harsh vinegar burn. Bite Me Tonic is crafted for those who value transparency and real results, supporting gut health, immunity, and digestion with every daily shot. Customers share stories of feeling better through winter seasons and enjoying a gentle, effective boost to their routines. With a focus on premium ingredients, honest communication, and a commitment to community—highlighted by an anti-bullying initiative—Bite Me Tonic is more than a supplement. It’s a testament to the power of tradition, innovation, and genuine care for well-being.

 

Black Market

While other brands flirt with cannabis, Black Market dives in headfirst—and consumers can’t get enough. Their 750ml THC beverage has become the breakout hit of the year, redefining what it means to drink socially. Infused with real hemp-derived Delta-9 THC, lion’s mane and vitamins, this bold black currant elixir is a social catalyst that delivers a euphoric energizing high. No “hemp-inspired” half-measures here—Black Market proudly puts the cannabis leaf front and center, declaring what others only hint at. From penthouse soirées to underground parties, it’s become the go-to pour for those ready to ditch hangovers and embrace something real. Fans call it the first beverage that truly gets cannabis culture right—authentic, elevated, and unapologetic. Black Market isn’t just part of the THC wave—it’s leading it. 

 

Bragg® Pineapple Turmeric Apple Cider Vinegar

Bragg® Pineapple Turmeric Apple Cider Vinegar Blend is a bold, flavor-forward breakthrough in functional wellness, uniting craveable taste with science-backed benefits. Crafted with Bragg’s signature organic, raw, unfiltered ACV, it blends the zesty original with bright organic pineapple and earthy turmeric, a spice renowned for its wellness properties. Each 16 oz. bottle delivers 750 mg of acetic acid per serving plus the naturally fermented “Mother” culture Bragg is known for, now in a tropical, taste-first formula that transports consumers to a wellness paradise. Launched in 2025 to make daily wellness more accessible and enjoyable, it offers a refreshing alternative to sugary drinks and synthetic supplements. Whether taken as in a wellness shot, mixed into mocktails, or used in culinary creations, it empowers effortless, delicious wellness integration. The launch ignited major momentum: organic engagement up to 27%, 500M+ PR impressions, 600+ broadcast airings, robust retail content, and creator-led recipes, solidifying it as a category-shifting innovation.

 

CogniSHIELD

CogniSHIELD™ brain health supplement is designed to protect against normal age-related decline and support memory and mental vitality. It was developed in collaboration with Dr. Rudy Tanzi, renowned Harvard Medical School researcher and one of the world’s most accomplished brain health scientists. Dr. Tanzi tested 3500 natural supplements over 10 years at Massachusetts General Hospital to select CogniSHIELD‘s four ingredients—Ipriflavone, Urolithin A, Quercetin, Fisetin. When combined, these ingredients are designed to protect against neuroinflammation and help the brain clear away excess beta-amyloid, which often accumulates in the normal aging brain. Each ingredient is found in nature and the microbiome and has been used for decades as supplements.  Age-related cognitive decline is normal and can begin as early as age 30. It doesn’t have to be normal for you. To learn more, visit the CogniSHIELD store at Amazon and use code “COGNISHIELD1” for 30% off.

 

Foundation Vodka from Du Nord Social Spirits

Every so often, a spirit emerges that redefines what excellence in distilling can look like. This year, that spirit is Foundation Vodka from Du Nord Social Spirits. Earlier in 2025, it captured both a Gold medal and the prestigious Best in Class honor at the American Craft Spirits Association’s annual competition—an accolade that officially names it the best craft vodka in America. The holidays call for something extraordinary, and Foundation Vodka delivers, offering a smooth, polished sip that elevates any occasion. Its clean, versatile character makes it a perfect partner in classic martinis, celebratory cocktails, or simply enjoyed neat by the fire. Beyond the glass, the spirit represents making good and doing good, reflecting Du Nord’s mission to create world-class spirits rooted in purpose. For those curating their holiday bar or seeking a standout gift, Foundation Vodka is more than just a bottle—it’s a story worth sharing.

 

GoSpotCheck by FORM

GoSpotCheck by FORM is revolutionizing how food and beverage brands achieve smarter merchandising and flawless execution across every location, globally. Using AI-powered image recognition and augmented reality, the mobile platform turns every store visit into instant intelligence on critical data including product availability, displays and planogram compliance. By connecting the frontline and headquarters in one seamless system, GoSpotCheck enables teams to act faster and perform better. In an industry defined by precision, speed and presentation, GoSpotCheck by FORM stands out as a true game-changer in operational excellence.

 

Holy Chocomoly!

Holy Chocomoly! is redefining what indulgence can be. Crafted with functional ingredients and carefully balanced macros, these decadent truffles prove that healthy and delicious aren’t opposites. Designed for mindful snackers, busy parents, and health-conscious foodies alike, Holy Chocomoly! makes it easy to satisfy cravings without compromise. Each truffle delivers rich, chocolatey bliss with a nutrition label that makes consumers feel as good as it tastes. For those unsure where to begin, the Variety Pack provides the perfect introduction with best-selling truffles in a mix of crave-worthy flavors. It’s a gift-worthy box for friends—or a sampler for every mood. Holy Chocomoly! was founded with a simple belief: chocolate should do more than taste good. With a passion for clean ingredients and balanced living, the brand set out to create truffles that delight the taste buds while aligning with health goals. The result is indulgence without regret, crafted for modern lifestyles.

 

King Oscar’s Kipper Snacks

King Oscar’s Kipper Snacks in Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a delicately texturedpremium fillet of responsibly wild-caught herring that is traditionally smoked and hand-packed in extra virgin olive oil. Made with 100% simple ingredients and no preservatives or GMOs, Kipper Snacks pack a flavorful protein punch with 18 grams per serving, making them perfect for all day eating occasions. It is the only premium offering of kipper snacks in olive oil available on retail shelves. King Oscar is the #1 brand of specialty seafood in the US. King Oscar’s Kipper Snacks inspire healthy, flavorful snacks and bites that are perfect for lunch, dinner, on-the-go or as an appetizer on a ‘seacuterie’ board. 

 

MAD TASTY THC Seltzers

MAD TASTY THC Seltzers have taken the beverage world by storm, earning Gold at the December 2024 and October 2025 Proof Awards and winning CSN’s Best New Product for THC-Infused Beverages. Renowned for their great taste and eye-catching cans, MAD TASTY is the premium national brand redefining how consumers celebrate and unwind. As traditional beer, wine, and spirits plateau, MAD TASTY leads the way with low-dose, 5mg THC-infused seltzers, offering a responsible alternative to alcohol. These seltzers promise happiness without the hangover and appeal to everyone from soccer moms to Gen Y, Gen Z, and beyond. Crafted with just five clean ingredients, each can is vegan, gluten-free, and lower in calories and carbs, encouraging repeat enjoyment. With trustworthy supply chain integrity and a reputation for quality, MAD TASTY lives up to its name—delivering satisfaction, healthier choices, and a new era in craft beverages. Cheers!

 

Mission Craft Cocktails

Mission Craft Cocktails is a California-born, nationally distributed ready-to-drink cocktail brand founded by Amit Singh and Marcin Malyszko. Guided by its mission to “Pour It Forward,” the company donates 5% of all sales to fight food insecurity—an ethos inspired when the founders met while volunteering at a local charity food drive. In less than three years, Mission Craft Cocktails has donated $150,000 and partnered with Feeding America®, contributing over $200,000 and funding more than 600,000 meals for families nationwide. Its lineup features inventive and classic bar favorites, including the Jalapeño Pineapple Margarita, along with the Margarita, Espresso Martini, Cosmopolitan, Manhattan, Old Fashioned, and a Platinum Award–winning Mai Tai, which has earned Double Gold honors three years running at the San Francisco International Wine & Spirits Competition. Each cocktail is crafted with premium, bar-quality ingredients, underscoring a commitment to both flavor and purpose.