The Impact of Spirit and Wine Competitions on Consumer Perception: Do Awards Really Matter?

As wine, cider, beer, and spirits enthusiasts, our team has always been intrigued by the world of competitions. Having worked as stewards, judges, and organizers, we understand how and why competitions work or, in some cases, do not.  Many different types of competitions exist for wine and spirits, each with its own set of rules, judges, and criteria. Some competitions are highly regarded in the industry, and winning a medal or award can be a significant achievement for a brand. But do these awards matter to consumers? BevFluence® explores the impact of spirit and wine competitions on consumer perception and whether or not winning awards translates to increased sales. 

World Drinks Award Road Trip 2023

While in Washington D.C. to judge in the Whiskey and Gin Categories for the World Drinks Award, we spend several days visiting wineries, distilleries, breweries, and cideries in the Metropolitan area. Interestingly, while traveling from Frederick Maryland in the northwest to Fredericksburg Virginia in the south and to Leonardtown, Maryland in the East, our tour […]

BevFluence Helps Judge at the World Drinks Awards

Earlier this month both Justin and I were invited to help judge American Gin and Whiskey for the World Drinks Awards *. The tasting was held at the incomprehensibly whiskey centric Jack Rose Dining Saloon in Washington D.C. We started with a few flights of American Gin featuring Classic Gin, Compound Gin, Matured Gin, and […]

A BevFluence Guide to American Whiskey and Bourbon Lexicon

As collaboration increases across the craft beverage space, industry-specific influencers must ascend into unfamiliar territory when discussing cross-pollinated products or multiple industries within a region.  We have come across a lot of confusion and misinformation when it comes to American whiskey and bourbon. Understanding the differences between the various types of whiskey and bourbon, as well as the complex lexicon used to describe them, can be a daunting task. But fear not, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the world of American whiskey and bourbon like an experienced professional.

Calling for New Best of BevFluence Submissions

The Best of BevFluence® is a comprehensive example of the services BevFluence® provides. Where entries are tasted, shared, and fully experienced by Beverage Influencers or BevFluencers.

New York’s Passive House Certified and Organic Seminary Hill Orchard & Cidery

Although Seminary Hill is a relatively new operation, they utilize the services of long-time cider-maker Stuart Madany. I first encountered Stuart 11 years ago when he was the cidermaker at Castle Hill Cider in central Virginia and introduced us to cider aged in Georgian Kevri. See Winemaker Series: Castle Hill Cider & Kvevri. Through email, he was able to explain some of the differences and similarities between cider-making in New York State and Central Virginia: