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Vodka, Explained

by Lydia Martin

US regulation defines vodka as neutral — without distinctive character, aroma or taste. What that means for brand claims, and every vodka guide we’ve published.

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Wine, Explained

by Lydia Martin

How many bottles in a case, what vermouth legally is, when wine actually goes bad, and every wine guide we’ve published. Start here.

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Brandy & Cognac, Explained

by Lydia Martin

VSOP requires four years and XO ten since 2018 — but only for cognac. On American brandy those letters are voluntary. Every brandy guide we’ve published.

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Beer, Explained

by Lydia Martin

A malt beverage under 0.5% ABV cannot legally be called beer, ale or lager in the US. That plus styles, strength and every beer guide we’ve published.

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Gin, Explained

by Lydia Martin

London Dry gin never had to be made in London. Navy Strength is 57% ABV and the name dates to 1997. Every gin guide we’ve published.

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Bourbon, Explained

by Lydia Martin

What bourbon legally is, how to read a label, which bottles are worth the money, and every bourbon guide we’ve published. Start here.

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Liqueurs, Explained

by Lydia Martin

“Cordial” is not a separate US class from liqueur. What defines the category, which bottles matter, and every liqueur guide we’ve published.

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Rum, Explained

by Lydia Martin

Caramel colouring is legal in rum and white rums are often aged then filtered clear. Colour is not age. Every rum guide we’ve published.

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Recent Posts

  • Vodka, Explained
  • Wine, Explained
  • Brandy & Cognac, Explained
  • Beer, Explained
  • Gin, Explained

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