FROM THE BARLIST JOURNAL
History
Every gin carries a geography within it. To understand gin is to understand movement, trade, and the quiet exchange of ingredients across continents. What begins as juniper distillation in the Netherlands evolves into a global spirit shaped by empire, medicine, and adaptation. From Dutch Genever to Global Gin In the seventeenth century, distillers in the […]
March 28, 2026
Region
Low-alcohol beverages have become a major topic of discussion globally, both among consumers seeking moderation and among regulators defining safe limits. While low alcohol may appear straightforward, the term carries different legal meanings in different countries. Understanding these distinctions requires examining production thresholds, labeling rules, and the historical evolution of definitions of low alcohol across […]
March 25, 2026
Distilleries
Rum production in Cuba is inseparable from the island’s history, economy, and identity. Unlike many regions where distillation emerged primarily for commerce, Cuban rum evolved as a cultural cornerstone. Its development reflects colonial sugarcane agriculture, revolutionary politics, and the continuity of traditional distilling practices. Across centuries, rum has not only defined local taste but also […]
March 24, 2026
Region
British drinking culture was shaped as much by foreign trade as by domestic tradition. Few categories illustrate this more clearly than sherry. While often described as a Spanish wine, sherry became culturally British long before it was regulated by Spain. This transformation occurred not across the country, but within a precise geographical zone in southern […]
February 11, 2026
Discovery and Education
The Phylloxera Plague of 1875 stands as one of the darkest chapters in the history of French viticulture. During the golden age of brandy production, the Cognac vineyards of the Charente countryside thrived, sustaining an empire of distillers and merchants who exported their liquid gold across the world. But in that fateful year, a silent […]
November 14, 2025
Distilleries
Europe’s spirits culture is rooted in centuries of tradition, but in 2025, a new generation of craft distilleries is pushing boundaries while honoring heritage. From Scandinavian foragers to experimental whiskey makers in France, these distilleries are reshaping the landscape with innovation, transparency, and respect for local terroir. Here are ten European craft distilleries to watch […]
October 3, 2025
Region
In the sunlit highlands and valleys of Jalisco, Mexico, the spirit of tequila is born long before it ever reaches the glass. Before dawn, the agaveros, masters of the blue agave fields, begin their daily ritual with the coa de jima, a sharp, flat-bladed tool that reflects the first light of morning. Each movement is […]
October 3, 2025
Distilleries
Cognac has always stood as a symbol of heritage, refinement, and French craftsmanship. Yet in 2025, the great Cognac houses are proving that tradition does not mean stagnation. Across the vineyards of the Charente region, producers are embracing innovation while honoring centuries of expertise. From sustainability to experimental blends, these houses are reshaping what Cognac […]
October 3, 2025
Famous Bars
New York City has always been at the heart of global cocktail culture. From the speakeasies of Prohibition to the pioneering craft bars of the early 2000s, the city has defined how the world drinks. In 2025, the momentum continues. New openings and established venues are setting new standards for creativity, service, and atmosphere. These […]
October 3, 2025
