The only super-premium vodka that is distilled, crafted, and bottled in New Zealand will be making its grand entrance to the U.S. this summer – beginning with NY, CA, and CT. Broken Shed Vodka is unique in that it has no additives, and only the best quality ingredients. “New Zealand is the perfect place to make vodka,” said Mark Simmonds, co-founder. “We have excellent water — some of the most desired and tastiest in the world —and the purest spirit made from whey. Combined with our craft blending and filtering techniques, we’re able to make a smooth and award-winning vodka, without any additives.” This is one to watch.
What is both 100-proof and full of fruit? Moonshine. Piedmont Distillers has added a blackberry expression to its handcrafted moonshine range. Rolling out this month, Midnight Moon Blackberry is made with whole pieces of red and black berries and packaged in the brand’s signature moonshine jar. The 100-proof offering is available at retail, with a suggested price of $19.99 per 750-ml., and joins Midnight Moon’s existing portfolio of Apple Pie, Cherry, Strawberry, Blueberry and Cranberry expressions.
Boston-based Harpoon Brewery has launched a White IPA as part of its limited batch 100 Barrel Series. Made with Simcoe, Cascade and Citra hops, the 6.2%-abv brew is described as having the floral and citrus notes of an IPA along with the spiciness of a Belgian Wit. White IPA is the 43rd expression in the 100 Barrel Series, which launched in 2003 and allows one Harpoon brewer to create and brew a one-off beer for release. Rolling out in 22-ounce bottles and limited draft availability, White IPA was created by brewer Ken Hermann, whose signature is found on the bottle label.