BREAKING NEWS: Food & Drink, Diet & Nutrition

Champion beer judging at Liverpool festival

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 10:41:48 +0000

Liverpool Beer Festival, which returns from 19th-21st February, is to host the winter stage of CAMRA’s Champion Beer of Britain competition.

This means that, among the 200 cask beers and ciders on offer, festival visitors will have the chance to try the 50 years on the champion beer shortlist.

There will be session and strong porters and stouts, brown, red, and black ales, old ales, strong milds, and ‘speciality’ beers, covering anything from lagers, rye beers, wheat beers, and beers brewed with different yeasts such as Kviek, to flavoured beers.

Founded in 1974, Liverpool Beer Festival is one of CAMRA’s longest running festivals. It is staged in the Metropolitan Cathedral Crypt, just 10 minutes’ walk from Liverpool Lime Street Station.

For more information, visit liverpoolcamra.org.uk/.

The post Champion beer judging at Liverpool festival first appeared on Beer Today.

The post Champion beer judging at Liverpool festival appeared first on Beer Today.

“Revolution” Announced as Next Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction Lot, Honoring America’s 250th Anniversary

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 08:04:32 +0000

KBCA reveals Old Forester Barrel Selection Experience as the next installment in its “12 Lots of Bourbon” series

“Revolution” revealed as the next installment in KBCA’s “12 Lots of Bourbon,” honoring America’s 250th anniversary and the revolutionary spirit behind Old Forester, America’s first bottled bourbon.
Lot features an exclusive Old Forester Single Barrel, Barrel Strength Selection Experience, including a private distillery tour, hands-on barrel selection and a personalized label yielding approximately 160 bottles.
Auction proceeds benefit the Bob Woodruff Foundation, supporting veterans and service members, while celebrating America’s 250th anniversary year and the enduring values that shaped the nation.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction & Celebration (KBCA) today announced the next installment of its “12 Lots of Bourbon,” a festive and historic countdown revealing the rare bourbon bottles, barrels and experiences that will be auctioned during its inaugural event on Presidents’ Day Weekend, Feb. 13–15, 2026.

Titled “Revolution,” the newly revealed lot pays tribute to the American Revolution and the spirit of bold innovation that continues to define the nation as it prepares to mark its 250th anniversary. The lot’s title is also representative of Old Forester, a brand whose legacy is rooted in revolutionary firsts that helped shape bourbon, America’s native spirit.

“Revolution” follows the announcement of previously revealed lots in KBCA’s signature series. The campaign will culminate with the last lot announcement shortly, although additional lots will be unveiled leading up to the February event.

“As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, ‘Revolution’ reflects the courage to challenge convention and set new standards, which are values that define both our country and Old Forester’s legacy,” said Andrew Varga, founder of the Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction & Celebration. “This lot captures the spirit of progress and perseverance that has shaped America for 250 years, while offering the most immersive bourbon experience in the world.”

About the Old Forester Lot

“Revolution” features an Old Forester Single Barrel, Barrel Strength Selection Experience, offering the winning bidder and up to five guests a private tour and hands-on barrel selection at the Old Forester Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky. Guided by a distillery host, participants will select a single barrel that will be bottled at barrel strength with a personalized label. The selected barrel is expected to yield an average of approximately 160 bottles in 750ml format, with final yield varying by barrel.

“Selecting a single barrel is one of the most personal and exclusive experiences we can offer,” said Campbell Brown, great-great-grandson of Old Forester Founder George Garvin Brown. “It connects people directly to our unique process and innovative history. Including this experience in the inaugural Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction during America’s 250th anniversary year is a meaningful way to celebrate our shared revolutionary spirit.”

Old Forester’s story is one of industry-defining innovation. First introduced in 1870, the brand became America’s first bottled bourbon, establishing new standards for quality, consistency and consumer trust. It was also the only bourbon brand to remain continuously distilled before, during, and after Prohibition, a testament to resilience and forward-thinking leadership, qualities that mirror the revolutionary ideals upon which the United States was founded.

“Revolution” underscores KBCA’s mission to connect bourbon’s rich heritage with the values that shaped America, using the country’s native spirit to tell stories of independence, innovation and progress.

Previously announced Bourbon Lots

The Old Forester lot joins these previously announced lots:

Elijah Craig Single Barrel experience at Heaven Hill Distillery
Four Roses private selection barrel pick

Proceeds from the Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction & Celebration will benefit the Bob Woodruff Foundation, supporting veterans, service members and their families, and reinforcing the event’s commitment to honoring those who have defended the freedoms born from America’s revolution.

For updates, auction lot announcements and ticket information, visit www.KYBCA.com and follow the Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

About the Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction

The Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction and Celebration is a first-of-its-kind gathering honoring Kentucky’s bourbon legacy while giving back to the heroes who protect our nation. Founded in Louisville by Andrew Varga, a longtime spirits industry executive, the inaugural KBCA committee includes bourbon industry luminaries, authors and executives such as America’s CEO- Chief Entertaining Officer Tim Laird and Lori Laird, former PriceWeber VP, Executive Creative Director Larry Profancik and brand strategist Henrietta Pepper. KBCA unites distilleries, chefs and bourbon enthusiasts for three unforgettable days of tastings, events and philanthropy, all “for the greater great.”

D&M California: Producer Spotlight – Highland Park Distillery – Scotch Whisky News

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 08:03:53 +0000

2200 Fillmore St. | SF, CA 94115 | 415.346.1325 | www.dandm.com

A SPIRIT OF INDEPENDENCE

IN SINGLE MALT SCOTCH SINCE 1798!

With a distillation history that dates back to 1798, Highland Park is the northernmost distillery in Scotland situated in the Orkney istands in the North Sea at roughly the same latitude as the southern tip of Greenland. This geographic location is key to what distinguishes the company from other whisky-makers throughout their country and around the world.

Isolated from other producers, Highland Park remains independent from shifting industry trends and innovations embraced by other distilleries. For example, they continue to do their own floor maltings for a portion of their output and also remain committed to the use of their signature Orkney heathered peat which they cut from their own plots at nearby Hobbister Moor and which has been growing there for millenia. This peat burns low and slow and sweet for a subtly smoky grain character that is distinct from Scotch made in the Highlands or on Islay. In terms of barrels, since the late 1960s, they have seasoned their own finest quality casks with Oloroso sherry in Spain, which imparts rich coloring and distinct sherry notes to their whiskies.

We are pleased to present a broad collection of Highland Park single malts, ranging from an “Explorers” sampler set which would make a great stocking stuffer to several older age statement and limited release offerings for that special someone…perhaps yourself!

Cheers!

Highland Park Explorers Selection (12 YR, Cask Strength, 18 YR) 50ml

$19.99 Shop now

Highland Park 12 Year Single Malt Scotch Whisky

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Highland Park Cask Strength

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Highland Park 16 Year Twisted Tattoo Single Malt $109.99

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Highland Park 15 Year Single Malt Scotch Whisky

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Highland Park 18 Year Single Malt Scotch Whisky

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Highland Park 18 Year 2004 Duncan Taylor Sherry Cask Single Malt Scotch Whisky $239.99

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Highland Park 25 Year Single Malt Scotch Whisky $949.99

Shop now

OUR CLUB PROGRAMS

Here at D&M we are passionate about American Whiskey & Single Malt Scotch To help make our passions a little easier on your (and our) pocketbook, we have come up with a number of different buying clubs. The purpose of these clubs is to explore these wonderful beverages, trying new things, and to save money. Click HERE to learn more about our club options.

Milroy’s of Soho ‘Philharmonia Macduff 16 Year Old 2008’ – Scotch Whisky News

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 08:02:37 +0000

Philharmonia Macduff 16 Year Old 2008 51.5% 70cl

£74.96 GBP

A very special bottling to mark the 80th anniversary of the world-renowned Philharmonia Orchestra, this sumptuous, single malt Macduff has been aged for 16 long years in a third-fill sherry butt. The result? An exactingly balanced yet elegantly expressive dessert-like Highland Scotch. A celebration of the harmony shared by music and whisky, it’s a decadent, satisfyingly full-bodied bottling perfect for the convivialities. We’re proud to partner with the Philharmonia on this release, which, with 80 years celebrated as an oak anniversary, feels especially fitting.

Tasting note:

Nose: Initially quite light and bright, with fruity cereal notes soon emerging. Raisins, fig rolls, toffee apples and pastries bring richness, while lemon sherbet sweets and cut grass contribute a more aromatic quality.

Palate: A bold, round palate sees milk chocolate combine with fresh fruit, pain au chocolat pastries, Eccles cake, butterscotch, toasted hazelnuts, milk chocolate and cumin.

Finish: Long and lingering, with drying oak spices, cocoa nibs and earthy tones.

New Linkwood & Blair Athol Old Malt Cask Bottlings at K&L California – Scotch Whisky News

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 08:01:55 +0000

2002 Linkwood 22 Year Old “Old Malt Cask” Single Sherry Butt Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) $174.99 View

1997 Blair Athol 26 Year “Old Malt Cask 25th Anniversary” Single Sherry Butt Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) $325.00 View

Email: wine@klwines.com
Phone: (877) KL-WINES (Toll Free 877.559.4637)
K&L Wine Merchants 3005 El Camino Real Redwood City, CA 94061 USA
San Francisco, Redwood City, Hollywood CA

ralfy review 1112 Extras – The CULT of Springbank Distillery. – Scotch Whisky News

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 08:00:53 +0000

ralfy review 1112 Extras – The CULT of Springbank Distillery.

Gevrey-Chambertin 2024: The best of the year's ‘crisp and fresh’ wines

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 08:00:06 +0000

As with several other villages, there was marked variation in the wines from Gevrey-Chambertin.

The best wines have a pure, perfumed expression of high-toned red fruit character underlined by firm tannins and a bright mineral edge on the palate.

Scroll down for Charles Curtis MW’s 20 top-scoring Gevrey-Chambertin 2024 wines

Top-scoring Gevrey-Chambertin 2024 wines

Duration to stage first women’s collaboration brew

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 07:47:23 +0000

Duration Brewing will host their first International Women’s Collaboration Day brew on Saturday, 7th March, at their award-winning farmhouse brewery in Kings Lynn, Norfolk.

An open invitation has been extended to all female identifying people to come and join in on a brew.

International Women’s Collaboration Brew Day (IWCBD) is an annual worldwide event that takes place on and around 8th March every year to mark International Women’s Day. Brewery teams and home brewers are encouraged to come together with their communities and local groups to celebrate women in the beer industry, and to create and release collaboration beers inspired by a central theme, raising funds for women’s causes.

The free drop-in event is being hosted by Duration’s brewer Virginia Casadio and founder and managing director Miranda Hudson. With the theme for 2026 being Unite Belonging, Duration will double down with not one but two beer releases. The first, Maya Shines, a 5.2% ABV pale ale, will follow this year’s theme and will launch at the event. The other beer will be brewed on the day, for release in early 2027.

“I am excited to be part of this international initiative,” said Virginia. “I can’t say too much other than we’ll be using locally-farmed and malted grains, and we’ve gone for a barrel-aged, bottle-conditioned beer with a secret ingredient that we’ll forage for together, later in the year.

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“What I can say is, if you want to break into the brewing industry or simply gain more knowledge on beer making, please come along. It will be a friendly and great day, with lots of opportunities to chat, observe, network, and drink!”

Miranda added: “Virgi’s giving a gentle yoga session before the brew, and we’ll finish up with some tasty bevs in the taproom where we are launching our Unite Belonging beer, Maya Shines — one Virgi prepared earlier!

“It feels like the right year for Duration to join this initiative to lift up women and let them know they belong in beer. Our event is free to attend, no experience is needed, and there is even a bursary of up to £100 to assist with travel, childcare, or taking time off to come along. You can apply for on the Women on Tap website until 11th February.”

Duration’s was recently listed in the top eight UK breweries and top eight UK taprooms by Pete Brown for The Times. The taproom will be open for everyone (friends and family welcome) throughout the day, with pizza available. There will also be the monthly brewery tour, from noon until 1pm, which will include 30 minutes in the brewhouse for a rare glimpse of a live brew in action.

The post Duration to stage first women’s collaboration brew first appeared on Beer Today.

The post Duration to stage first women’s collaboration brew appeared first on Beer Today.

Brains gets to the art of a great pint

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 07:13:32 +0000

Brains Brewery has unveiled a new digital campaign celebrating the character, heritage and growing popularity of its flagship ale, Reverend James.

Created by CR Studio, classic artistic masterpieces such as Mona Lisa and a portrait of Napoleon, are reimagined alongside modern pop art and cultural references. They are brought together with humour and the rallying call to “Get a Rev on!”

The campaign, which is currently being rolled out across social media, champions the ale’s rich flavour, full-bodied profile, and status as one of Wales’ most-loved pints.

Brains has brewed The Original Reverend James since 1998, following the acquisition of Crown Buckley Brewery in 1997. Since then, it has grown to become Brains’ best-selling ale and a cornerstone of the brewery’s range. The campaign coincides with the recent release of a limited-edition Rev James Buckley.

“By placing Rev James alongside iconic works of art and pop culture, we’re having a bit of fun with its heritage and reminding drinkers that this is a beer full of depth, flavour, and personality,” said Sara Leigh Webber, head of marketing at Brains.

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“Reverend James is a beer with huge confidence and character. It has a loyal following and a proud history, so this campaign is about celebrating everything people already love about it, while presenting it in a way that feels bold, modern, and unmistakably ‘new’ Brains.”

Sara added: “There’s also a growing appreciation for cask ale among younger drinkers, with recent SIBA research showing a significant increase in 18- to 24-year-olds choosing cask. Reverend James is perfectly placed to meet that interest — it’s a classic ale that still surprises.”

Gareth Chubb, from CR Studio, added: “This campaign celebrates Reverend James exactly as it is — confident, distinctive, and full of character. By combining art, humour, and cultural references, we’ve created something that feels celebratory rather than nostalgic.”

The post Brains gets to the art of a great pint first appeared on Beer Today.

The post Brains gets to the art of a great pint appeared first on Beer Today.

Devon contract brewer sees demand soar

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 07:12:59 +0000

Devon brewery Powderkeg are expanding their contract brewing service, adding new capacity and enhanced services for start-up and established brewers.

The newly-named Zymoko Brewing is SALSA-Plus beer accredited and now offers a total of 40,000 litres of fermentation capacity, alongside in-house canning and kegging.

Powderkeg have been offering contract brewing since they opened their doors in 2014, producing beers for numerous brands alongside their own range. Last year saw demand soar, and now more space has been made available for the service.

Zymoko also offers a product development service, which has already nurtured numerous start-up brewing businesses, from initial concept through to commercial and critical success.

To date, the service has partnered with brewing businesses of all shapes and sizes: traditional regional breweries modernising their range; ghost brewers that need a regular, reliable supplier with dedicated volumes; and hospitality groups and farm shops requiring own-brand products.

“Zymoko is named for the science of fermentation, but we know that brewing is also an art,” said John Magill, managing director of Powderkeg.

“No two businesses’ requirements are ever the same, and we always look to reflect our customers’ specific needs and tastes. We offer flexibility, open-mindedness and creative solutions. Every brew is seen as a collaboration, and your success is our success.”

A website for Zymoko will be available soon. In the meantime, you can find out more at powderkegbeer.co.uk/.

The post Devon contract brewer sees demand soar first appeared on Beer Today.

The post Devon contract brewer sees demand soar appeared first on Beer Today.

Pumpclip choices for Greene King rugby seasonal

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 07:11:26 +0000

Greene King has announced the launch of its 2026 Fresh Cask Releases calendar, following a year that saw continued investment in seasonal brews.

Greene King Scrumdown…

The calendar introduces some new beers and an increased choice in pumpclip designs. This is designed to give pubs greater flexibility and help them create exciting seasonal cask offerings to suit their bar and drive engagement.

Greene King’s festive favourite, Rocking Rudolph, delivered a strong performance during its most recent run, surpassing 2024 sales. The uplift was driven in part by the introduction of a new pumpclip design.

The brewer also saw wider success with its seasonal calendar, selling more than 2 million pints of cask beer ‘specials’ in 2025.

The 2026 calendar will feature 12 limited‑edition beers, each carefully timed to complement key moments throughout the year.

Continuing on from the 2025 programme, Fireside, the 4.5% ABV ruby winter ale, and Abbot Reserve, the 6.5% ABV premium ale, will be available across the early months of the year.

… and Scrumdown in its guise as Golden Dawn

Making its annual return in February is sport‑inspired Scrumdown. The 4.1% ABV golden ale pays homage to the Six Nations rugby tournament and offers pubs a seasonal pint designed to enhance matchday occasions. It will be available from the end of January until the end of April.

But it will have an alternative pumpclip, going under the name Golden Dawn – ideal for venues without a sporting association. Licensees will receive both pumpclips with their order, allowing them to select the option that best suits their venue and drinkers.

“Our 2026 Fresh Cask Releases calendar builds on the success of our portfolio last year, bringing back much‑loved favourites alongside a few exciting new brews and seasonal celebrations,” said head brewer Jack Palmer.

“By continuing to invest in seasonal quality cask and offering a rotating range, we’re helping our customers create fresh interest in cask beer throughout the year and deliver great experiences for drinkers.”

The post Pumpclip choices for Greene King rugby seasonal first appeared on Beer Today.

The post Pumpclip choices for Greene King rugby seasonal appeared first on Beer Today.

Loaded Cheeseburger Warp (Big Mac Style)

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 06:05:37 +0000

Loaded Cheeseburger Warp (Big Mac Style)

I tried those viral smashed burger tacos that took over the internet. I wanted to love them, I really did.…

The post Loaded Cheeseburger Warp (Big Mac Style) appeared first on Cafe Delites.

This new book is 'far from an impenetrable reference guide, but not in the least oversimplified,' says our regular reviewer

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 05:00:24 +0000

The first instalment of Marc Bouffard's new series on Bordeaux's communes focuses on St-Julien.

There’s nothing better than a really good wine visit. Geeking out in the vineyard and winery, talking to people who know their little patch of land better than anyone else, exploring exactly what makes that place special and tasting the results isn’t just a joy – it’s an honour. It’s the behind-the-scenes, all-access tour.

Books: From table to page – new wine books by renowned sommeliers

This book is ‘reminiscent of a school project’, says our reviewer

This new book is a compelling read, worthy of attention, says our reviewer

The post This new book is 'far from an impenetrable reference guide, but not in the least oversimplified,' says our regular reviewer appeared first on Decanter.

'I asked five chefs how to stop chicken tasting dry – they all mentioned same ingredient'

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 03:35:00 +0000

Five chefs have given their opinion on how to keep chicken from going dry and all of them suggested adding one ingredient

Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 21:21:27 +0000

This cheesy chicken and broccoli skillet dinner comes together in 30 minutes! It’s easy to make with ground chicken, broccoli florets, and leftover rice, simmered in a seasoned broth. Finished with sour cream and melted cheese, it’s a creamy chicken and broccoli casserole that you can make in one pan!

Fans of chicken divan and my creamy chicken and rice will love this quick weeknight dinner idea.

Today’s dinner has a lot of the same savory, cheesy flavors as my chicken and broccoli casserole recipe, condensed into a quick, one-skillet meal.

Continue reading Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet at Cookies and Cups.

Arkell’s reveals specials line-up for 2026

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 15:49:57 +0000

The team at Arkell’s Brewery are looking forward to busy year of sport, and have created two special brews for the occasions.

First up is Tap Tackle (4.5% ABV), for the Six Nations rugby union tournament. It’s a dark and moreish, smooth, light-bodied mild that will be sessionable for the big games.

For the World Cup football, The Showboater will be rolled out, a returning recipe that has always kept the pubs busy during big matches. At 3.7% ABV, it’s light and crisp.

There are four other specials making appearances during 2026.

Spring Hopper (4% ABV) and Sir Noel (5% ABV) are, respectively, light, easy, and tempting for spring, and strong, deep, and warming for winter.

Bee’s Honey Pale Ale (4.5% ABV) is based on a popular beer Arkell’s brewed regularly many years ago. This time, however, they’ve sourced local honey from just behind the brewery, adding a rich sweetness that’s perfect for the sunny months.

SBA (4.4% ABV) comes from neighbours Donnington Brewery, in the Cotswolds and is “one of their oldest and most flavoursome beers, an exciting change for the autumn”, says head brewer Alex Arkell.

The post Arkell’s reveals specials line-up for 2026 first appeared on Beer Today.

The post Arkell’s reveals specials line-up for 2026 appeared first on Beer Today.

Red Meat, Beef Tallow In New Dietary Guidelines. What You Need To Know

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 14:28:16 +0000

The new 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans issued by the USDA/HHS features red meat and beef tallow quite prominently. Here's the lowdown on how to view them.

2-Ingredient Red Velvet Cake

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 13:00:00 +0000

I still can’t believe this red velvet cake only uses 2 ingredients. A box of cake mix and a can of soda are all you need to make a soft, fluffy cake in minutes! It’s perfect for Valentine’s Day or anytime a red velvet craving hits.

Why This Recipe Wows

Ridiculously Easy: Only two ingredients and minutes to mix, no eggs, oil, or butter required. This is total dessert magic!
Fluffy & Moist: Soft, tender cake that’s surprisingly light and melts in your mouth.
Versatile & Fun: Dress it up with frosting, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even berries for Valentine’s Day or any special treat.

2-Ingredient Red Velvet Cake Ingredients

Type of Soda: I used Coke, but you can use cola, lemon-lime, Ginger Ale, or Dr Pepper. I’d stay away from zero-sugar or diet sodas.
Swap the Soda: You can use 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce instead of a can of soda, OR 1 ½ cups of club soda.
Cake Mix: A 13.25-ounce box of cake mix will still work, but I prefer the 15.25-ounce box. I look for the Pillsbury brand.
Topping: Top this cake with cream cheese frosting, buttercream, or even just a dusting of powdered sugar!

How to Make 2-Ingredient Red Velvet Cake

This 2 Ingredient Red Velvet Cake is perfect when you want a last-minute Valentine’s Day treat. For a little extra love on the dessert table, you can also make red hot cinnamon popcorn, cherry cordials, or cheesecake stuffed strawberries.

Prep: Preheat the oven to 350ºF and spray a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray. Set aside. Add the cake mix and can of Coke to a large bowl.
Mix: Use a hand mixer to mix on medium speed until fully combined.
Bake: Add the cake batter to the prepared baking pan, then smooth the top. Bake for 28-30 minutes, until the center of the cake springs back when slightly pressed or a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely before serving. Frost your 2 ingredient red velvet cake with your choice of frosting, or dust with powdered sugar.

Alyssa’s Pro Tip

Make Cupcakes! Fill 12 muffin liners ⅔ of the way full with batter. Then bake at 350ºF for 18-20 minutes or until the centers of the cupcakes spring back when gently pressed.

2-Ingredient Red Velvet Cake

This 2-ingredient red velvet cake is almost too easy to believe! With just a cake mix and a can of soda, you can make a soft, fluffy cake in minutes.

Course Cake, Dessert

Cuisine American

A personal trainer has shared a simple method to lose up to half a stone by making one change to your daily routine.

The World’s Best Bourbon—According To The 2025 Asia World Spirits Competition

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 09:15:00 +0000

The rebranded Asia World Spirits Competition just named this 12-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon as its 2025 "Best In Class" across all categories of the spirit.

Celebratory brews for Dorchester Beerex

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 08:53:43 +0000

It’s not long until Dorchester Beerex now, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the West Dorset branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).

Danny England of Cerne Abbas Brewery at a previous Beerex. Photograph: Rich Gabe

The event, organised in association with Dorchester Casterbridge Rotary Club, returns to the Corn Exchange over the weekend of 6th and 7th February.

Dorset brewers have been busy brewing one-off ales, marking the CAMRA anniversary, which will feature among the 84 cask conditioned real ales on offer. There will also be more than 20 traditional ciders and perries.

Cerne Abbas Brewery is, once again, the main sponsor, with brews this year including the celebratory Gurt 50th, and Ale To The Chief, in tribute to Victor (Vic) Irvine, original partner in and brewer at Cerne Abbas.

From further afield, the Weymouth Octoberfest overall winner, Cowella from Ampersand Brewery, makes a welcome return, and Leatherbritches will be supplying Scoundrel, a porter from Leicestershire. Loch Lomond Brewery will provide their 80 Shilling bitter, while from Wales, Grey Trees will supply Drummer Boy in honour of the late Stereophonics drummer Stuart Cable.

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For cider drinkers, there will be a selection of all styles, including Dorset producer Isaac from Beaminster’s 5% ABV Anti-Gravity, Somerset’s Harry’s Flash Mango & Lime, and Dorset Nectar’s Pineapple Lane. From Kent, Dudda’s Tun will be providing a blackberry cider, while Sussex producer Big Nose & Beardy will be supplying 7% ABV Ugly Dog.

“Everything is coming along nicely, and we can’t wait to welcome you all on the Beerex weekend,” said West Dorset CAMRA chairman Bruce Mead.

“Having been to many festivals, I can honestly say that this year’s selection of beer and cider is one of the best I have ever seen; something for everyone.

“I would like to thank all of the volunteer staff over the weekend who make this marvellous event possible.”

The festival has always raised funds for local good causes, and this year the main charity beneficiary will be People First Dorset, empowering people with learning disabilities.

Find out more and buy tickets here.

The post Celebratory brews for Dorchester Beerex first appeared on Beer Today.

The post Celebratory brews for Dorchester Beerex appeared first on Beer Today.

Iron Gate Auctions Celebrates a Landmark Year for Luxury Spirits in 2025 – Auction Whisky News

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 08:04:24 +0000

Iron Gate Auctions Celebrates a Landmark Year for Luxury Spirits in 2025

Iron Gate Auctions celebrates 2025 as a milestone for its Fine Spirits division, solidifying its role as Canada’s top auction houses for rare spirits. Successful auctions this year featured standout results in single malt Scotch, American bourbon, Japanese whisky and more, attracting both veteran collectors and new enthusiasts.

Under the leadership of Vice President of Spirits, Ajay Bhardwaj, the division achieved notable growth in both the quality and breadth of offerings, featuring some of the world’s most coveted bottles.

“2025 was a defining year for Iron Gate Spirits. Our focus has always been on sourcing bottles with true provenance—spirits that represent craftsmanship and rarity. The response from collectors this year confirmed that Canada is not only participating in the global spirits market but helping to shape it.”

Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Iron Gate’s 2025 auctions showcased extraordinary depth in rare Scotch, including ultra-aged expressions and closed-distillery releases such as Port Ellen 30-Year-Old and Rosebank 30-Year-Old. Rare and old bottlings such as Auchentoshan 50-Year-Old (distilled in 1957), drawing strong bidding interest. The first ever sale of the Macallan Distil Your World: NEW YORK Edition demonstrating the markets appetite for luxury brands in the Canadian market.

American Bourbon & Whiskey

Demand for premium American whiskey remained strong throughout the year, with highly collectible bourbon releases—led by multiple highly collectible Pappy Van Winkle bottlings consistently among the most competitive lots in the category. The first ever sale of WhistlePig “The Boss Hog – Spice Dancer” in Canada, appealed to collectors seeking rarity beyond traditional bourbon labels.

Japanese Whisky

Iron Gate was proud to feature rare and cult-status Japanese bottles, including celebrated releases like Ichiro’s Malt “The Joker” (Hanyu Playing Cards Series) — a legendary bottling from the closed Hanyu distillery, widely regarded as a crown jewel for Japanese whisky collectors.

According to Bhardwaj, 2025 marked a turning point for Canadian spirits collectors.

“We are seeing a more educated, globally aware Canadian buyer. Collectors are no longer chasing labels alone—they are seeking bespoke spirits with stories and long-term significance. Canada has matured into a serious collecting market, with clients who understand value of spirits.”

A Commitment to Clients and the Future

Iron Gate’s success in 2025 reflects a continued commitment to its clients—providing trusted expertise, transparent auction experiences, and access to world-class spirits.

“It has been a pleasure to serve our consignors and bidders this year. Their trust is what allows us to present such exceptional collections. We are grateful for the relationships built in 2025 and excited for what lies ahead in 2026.”

Review Previous Auctions and Register for the upcoming auctions here: Iron Gate Auctions

Contact for Spirits
Ajay Bhardwaj
ajay@irongate.wine

Celebrate Burns Night with Murray McDavid!

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 08:03:01 +0000

A Toast to the Bard!

As Burns Night approaches, we’re delighted to invite you to join us for a special celebration at Dallas Dhu House, in partnership with the Murray McDavid team.

On Saturday 24 January, the beautiful Victorian surroundings of Dallas Dhu House in Forres will play host to an evening of traditional Scottish hospitality and exceptional whisky.

Guests will enjoy a classic three-course Burns Supper, complete with haggis, neeps and tatties, thoughtfully paired with a selection of Murray McDavid drams chosen to complement the evening. From poetry to pours, it’s a relaxed and flavourful way to toast the Bard.

Event details:

Rare Character 10 Years 2 month “Exceptional Cask Series” K&L Exclusive Single Barrel E-WB-1540 Cask Strength Straight Wheated Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)

$200.00

The finest, most extra ordrinary casks that roll through Rare Characters warehouse are destined to be selected for the “Exceptional Cask” series. These rare gems often come from places you’d never think to look. Previous offerings have been Kentucky Malt, but this exclusive wonder was actually distilled and a prominent, yet unnamable distillery in West Virginia. The wheated mashbill is widely loved by bourbon afficionados and often folks assume a wheated mashbill can be more accessible at a youthful age, but if you ask the real old school wheat heads, they’ll usually tell you the fun starts at 10 years old. Finding anything wheated of this quality at this age in cask strength form is simply impossible. It simply bests any other wheated bourbon on the market right now head to head – bar none. This single cask was distiled in the Spring of 2015 and in the summer of 2025 at full cask strength without an additions or chillfiltration of any kind for exclusive sale at K&L Wine Merchants.

Email: wine@klwines.com
Phone: (877) KL-WINES (Toll Free 877.559.4637)
K&L Wine Merchants 3005 El Camino Real Redwood City, CA 94061 USA
San Francisco, Redwood City, Hollywood CA

The Malt Maniacs Monitor is back!

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 08:01:10 +0000

The Malt Maniacs Monitor is back!

CHECK IT OUT

Mark’s Whisky Ramblings 591: Knockando 12 Year Old – Scotch Whisky News

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 08:00:27 +0000

Mark’s Whisky Ramblings 591: Knockando 12 Year Old

Mark Dermul, Belgian whisky blogger, tries an elusive (?) Speysider. He has only tasted 4 Knockando so far, and the last one was back in 2021! This distillery, founded in 1898 and owned by Justerini & Brooks, is located in the heart of Speyside, in the village of the same name. Mark actually passed by there in September 2023. But this bottle was on an irresistible offer in his local supermarket: buy 1, get 1 free. So, two came home with him for a mere 40 EUR (for both!). That’s cheaper than two bottles of Johnnie Walker Red Label.

https://youtu.be/alcFsRhJC44

Burgundy 2024 en primeur: White wines shine amid a small and challenging harvest

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 08:00:17 +0000

Charles Curtis MW tasted more than 1,400 wines from the 2024 vintage and offers his expert analysis. Here he tastes the 2024s at Domaine Comte Georges de Vogüe.

Following a growing season rife with challenges, 2024 is a catastrophically small vintage, yet there are bright spots that shine through, particularly among the white wines.

Despite concerns raised in some quarters over quality in general as a result of the year’s severe weather conditions, Burgundy lovers may be surprised how many enjoyable wines they will find.

According to Frédéric Drouhin, CEO of Maison Joseph Drouhin, ‘2024 is a vintage of delicacy, sobriety and precision. It is a pleasant vintage in red, and a precise and salty vintage for the whites.’

His wife, Claude de Nicolay, directs her own domaine, Chandon de Briailles, with her brother François. Her view was slightly different: ‘2024 will be a “virtual” vintage – you will almost not see it at all.

‘We lost 90% of the crop and had an average yield of 8hl/ha. There was nothing at all to pick at the base of the slope. But in the end, it is a classic vintage “à l’ancienne”, a character not extinguished by the excesses of the weather.’

Scroll down to see tasting notes and scores for Charles Curtis MW’s Burgundy 2024 selection

Beer Today publisher Darren Norbury on a potential new direction for the 22-year-old website.

Go big or go home, they say. So I’ve decided that I want to take Beer Today in a new direction. For some time I’ve had ambitions to add print products to the website offering, namely a magazine and an annual brewery and suppliers directory.

As West Cornwall Media we already publish a magazine, a community publication called St Ives Local, with a print run of 12,000. We have a process in place, and a great backroom team.

Beer Today is more than just a seven-day-a-week news site. It also champions independent brewers and venues through a huge events listing, a bulging business directory (find anything, from brewers to hop merchants, pub companies to writers and podcasters), and a blog which I really should update more often.

Over the next few weeks, I’ll begin planning the magazine in InDesign (industry standard design software). Same size (B5) as our community magazine, with 64 pages and a target print run of 10,000. It will be bi-monthly and available by mail subscription, with other copies bulk-dropped with trusted partners (independent taprooms, pubs, events) around the country. The annual business directory will be a 256-page catalogue-style publication for the trade. Yearly business round-ups, supplier and outlet listings.

So that’s the plan. Daily Beer Today will continue online. The print products will develop in the background. When the subscriber and bulk drop list are big enough, the first print issue can go into production. In the meantime, PDF dummies will be released.

The media pack for the magazine will be available soon, as will subscription rates. If you’re interested in being a part of this, supporting our precious independent brewers and venues, drop me a line at beer.today@outlook.com so I can gauge the direction of travel. If you’re interested in taking bulk copies (outlets will be promoted heavily, of course), likewise, get in touch. If it doesn’t take off, I won’t be able to say I haven’t tried!

In the meantime, please consider becoming a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/beertoday. There will be advertising discounts in the print products for commercial supporters, and cheaper subscriptions for individual supporters. I love writing about and supporting independent brewers and venues. We know from St Ives Local that people like print, and I think there’s an audience for a consumer-targeted beer magazine.

Thanks for reading. Any queries or suggestions, or indeed and event listings, same email address, beer.today@outlook.com. Cheers!

The post In print: a potential new direction for Beer Today first appeared on Beer Today.

The post In print: a potential new direction for Beer Today appeared first on Beer Today.

Joule’s works on the Duke of York, Lichfield

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 07:08:08 +0000

‘Light-touch’ work is under way at the Duke of York, in Lichfield, as part of Joule’s Brewery’s ongoing commitment to caring for and investing in its pub estate.

The intention is to gently enhance the pub while protecting everything that makes it a special place for the community. The work will focus on subtle improvements behind the scenes alongside thoughtful upgrades for customers, all delivered in a way that stays true to the character, history, and warmth of the Duke.

Joule’s has a long track record of sensitively restoring and developing historic pubs across the region, including recent projects such as The Stag and the Red Lion in Market Drayton, Crown Wharf in Stone, and the Henry Tudor Inn, Shrewsbury.

Each project is approached with the same guiding principle, says Joule’s: to respect the building, celebrate its story, and ensure it continues to thrive for generations to come.

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“The Duke of York is a wonderful pub and a hugely important part of Lichfield life,” said Anna Brakel, development director at Joule’s Brewery. Our role is to look after places like this properly. We are being considered and respectful in everything we do, but we also know how to deliver great pub projects.

“This sparkle is about giving the Duke a little extra polish while keeping its heart exactly where it belongs. We cannot wait to re-open the doors in March and welcome everyone back.”

While the Duke is undergoing its project, customers are encouraged to visit its sister pub just around the corner, The Angel Inn. There, drinkers can collect a ‘Duke’s IOU’. Enjoy nine pint’s of Joule’s beer and, when the Duke re-opens, claim a free pint.

The post Joule’s works on the Duke of York, Lichfield first appeared on Beer Today.

The post Joule’s works on the Duke of York, Lichfield appeared first on Beer Today.

Business briefing: Black Sheep, Urban Pubs, J W Lees, and more

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 07:03:37 +0000

Black Sheep Brewery has followed its parent company in filing a notice of intention to appoint administrators.

The brewery is part of Keystone Brewing Group, which filed its own such notice at the end of November. Keystone started out as capital investment outfit BrealGroup. It has purchased Black Sheep and Purity breweries, among others, over the past couple of years, as well as brewery brands, such as North.

In October, Keystone announced it would brew and distribute Hong Kong-based Gweilo beers. It also makes and distributes beers from Hofmeister, Big Drop, Magic Rock, Fourpure, and Brew By Numbers.

• Urban Pubs & Bars has announced its strongest Christmas trading performance on record, with like-for-like sales growth of 14.5% and a 40% increase in total covers

“The energy across the business continues to be fantastic, and this performance is a huge credit to our teams,” said managing director Chris Hill.

“Finishing the year so strongly puts us in a brilliant position as we head into the new year.”

• Brewer and pub owner J W Lees has reported record Christmas sales, with managed houses leading the charge.

Over the six-week trading period retail sales were up 9.9%, with drinks up 8.4% and food 10.4%.

“Our team executed Christmas extremely well, with both events and walk-ins performing well,” said J W Lees managing director William Lees-Jones.

“In some ways, it was a perfect storm, with Christmas Day falling on a Thursday and no snow or named storms in the festive period – and there was probably some relief after the chancellor’s Budget, since things were not as grim for consumers as had been trailed in the media.”

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• The price of Guinness — of which there is, once more, an alleged shortage — is to rise by 5.2%, says owner Diageo. Last year it rose in price by 4.2%.

Diageo says the new price reflects rising costs in its supply chain, and also allows it to invest in its most famous brand.

• Stonegate is believed to have appointed advisors to simplify its business structure as it faces challenging trading conditions.

It is believed to be accelerating plans to sell 1,000 of its pubs, which could raise £1bn.

The post Business briefing: Black Sheep, Urban Pubs, J W Lees, and more first appeared on Beer Today.

The post Business briefing: Black Sheep, Urban Pubs, J W Lees, and more appeared first on Beer Today.

The world's best wine spas: Six stunning venues for ultimate relaxation

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 07:00:38 +0000

Gibbston Valley lodge in New Zealand.

Why do we drink wine? Put the more esoteric arguments aside and the reason is simple: it makes us feel good. It does us good, too. Besides helping us to relax and unwind, boosting our mood and providing connection with others, wine has frequently been shown to have a positive antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect.

Vinotherapy, the marriage between wine and spa, takes the idea of wine as cure to an entirely new level. By utilising the byproducts of the winemaking process – grape skins, pips, leaves, must and even sap from pruned vines – in treatments, it aims to heighten wellbeing in a natural way.

Efficacy claims stem from the idea that wine grapes, which are rich in polyphenol resveratrol, can be used to provide intense moisturisation, a natural and waste-free exfoliant and anti-ageing benefits.

Getting a facial treatment at Loisium Langenlois in Kamptal, Austria (one of the spas featured below). Photo credit: Werner Streitfelder.

As a concept, vinotherapy is nothing new – historical records do show that some people, back through the Middle Ages to Roman times, would use wine, mixed with herbs and other flavourings, as part of their hygiene rituals.

Prominent French beauty brand Caudalie has, almost since its inception by Mathilde and Bertrand Thomas in the 1990s, run wine-themed spas at the likes of Frank Gehry-designed Marqués de Riscal in Rioja, northern Spain, and its flagship Les Sources de Caudalie in Bordeaux’s Pessac-Léognan region.

Today’s vinotherapy is taking on a fresh shape, with a distinct shift from showmanship to science. Modern practice is increasingly sophisticated and nuanced, with new boutique brands and techie spas focused on the chemical potential of high levels of grape polyphenols to transform skin – in addition to theatrical soaks in barrel-style tubs.

When you pair a relaxing treatment with a stay overnight snuggled among vines, along with a curated local wine list of special bottles, as you will do in the properties featured below, then you can’t help but feel good. Which, of course, is exactly the point.

Burgundy and Bordeaux, all on the shelf at £25 or less per bottle* – and some below £20.

There’s something for everyone here; sparkling, white, red and sweet, and several offerings from well-known areas including St-Julien, St-Estèphe, Beaujolais, Chablis and Sauternes.

Alongside individual producers, our selection also showcases some great-value supermarket own-brand labels.

*The Sauternes listed is available in half bottle format

Best value Burgundy and Bordeaux: 14 top picks

Best Booths wines: 25 brilliant seasonal buys

Discover Sainsbury’s best new wines of autumn 2025: Highlights from Australia, France and Spain

Discover top Co-op wines: Best buys for autumn and winter revealed

The post Uncover hidden gems: Affordable Bordeaux and Burgundy wines appeared first on Decanter.

Katherine Cole: ‘Is the real question whether wine regions could shield the rest of us from wildfires?’

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 06:00:57 +0000

Burnt vines in the Aude department of Southern France following a wildfire in August 2025.

As wildfires have battered the wine industry in recent years, follow-up reports have largely focused on the damage. But perhaps we’ve missed the larger point. What if the real question isn’t how fires threaten wine, but whether wine regions could shield the rest of us from wildfires?

Consider Napa’s recent transformation from victim to warrior. After the devastating fires of 2017 and 2020, Napa Firewise CEO Joseph Nordlinger and his team identified two barriers to resilience that plague fire-prone regions: fragmented efforts and simple complacency. In response, the team built a shared-services hub for Napa County, coordinating equipment, planning and funding ‘so we don’t have 23 Fire Safe Councils competing with one another for grant funds’, explains Nordlinger.

Katherine Cole: ‘If their wine-growing is an act of resistance, I want to join the revolution’

Katherine Cole: When wine met tariffs, history rarely went according to plan

Katherine Cole: ‘The surest way to ensure wine’s demise is to politicise it’

The post Katherine Cole: ‘Is the real question whether wine regions could shield the rest of us from wildfires?’ appeared first on Decanter.

Cool-climate Australian Chardonnay: Panel tasting results

Sun, 18 Jan 2026 08:00:37 +0000

Alex Hunt MW, Roger Jones and Beth Pearce MW tasted 80 wines, with 6 Outstanding and 26 Highly Recommended

Cool-climate Australian Chardonnay: Panel tasting scores

80 wines tasted

Exceptional 0
Outstanding 6
Highly recommended 26
Recommended 39
Commended 9
Fair 0

Entry criteria: producers and UK agents were invited to submit their current-release, 100% Chardonnay still wines produced in any of Australia’s cool-climate regions

Scroll down to see the top-scoring wines from our cool-climate Australian Chardonnay panel tasting

Nutella Swirl Pound Cake

Sun, 18 Jan 2026 05:00:00 +0000

Nutella Swirl Pound Cake

This Nutella-swirl pound cake is a rich, plush loaf cake swirled generously with Nutella and baked until beautifully golden. It’s sturdy, tall, and sliceable, with a classic pound cake crumb and defined Nutella swirls throughout.

The post Nutella Swirl Pound Cake appeared first on Sally's Baking.

Slow Cooker Bourbon Meatballs

Sat, 17 Jan 2026 13:00:00 +0000

Slow cooker bourbon meatballs are an easy, set-it-and-forget-it favorite. Frozen meatballs simmer in a sweet, sticky bourbon sauce, making them perfect for an appetizer or a simple dinner with just 10 minutes of prep.

The Secret Sauce Behind These Bites

Big Flavor, Zero Fuss: Using frozen meatballs and a simple sauce, makes this recipe so easy and the best thing to whip up on busy nights!
Made for Any Moment: Serve them with toothpicks for parties or game days with my hot corn dip and chicken wings, or spoon them over rice for an easy, weeknight dinner.
Sweet & Savory Perfection: The bourbon-infused sauce has the perfect balance of rich, tangy, and sweet!

Slow Cooker Bourbon Meatball Ingredients

Meatballs: Frozen meatballs make this recipe so EASY! Make my homemade meatballs if you prefer. Frozen meatballs can release excess moisture as they cook. You can thaw them first if you prefer.
Bourbon: If you don’t want to use bourbon, you can use apple juice or apple cider instead!
Make it Spicy: Garnish your meatballs with red pepper flakes before serving for a kick of spice!

How to Make Slow Cooker Bourbon Meatballs

Whether you’re making these for a party or serving them over mashed potatoes for an easy dinner, the process is quick and hands-off. Follow the simple steps below and let the slow cooker work its magic.

Add Meatballs: Spray the inside bowl of a slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. Place the frozen meatballs in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Whisk Sauce: In a medium bowl, add the bourbon, brown sugar, honey, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic. Whisk until combined, and the sugar is dissolved.
Add Sauce and Cook: Pour the bourbon sauce over the meatballs. Give it a stir to make sure the meatballs are all coated. Cook on LOW for 3 hours, or HIGH for 2 hours, stirring occasionally to coat the meatballs in the sauce.
Thicken Sauce: In the last hour of cooking, combine the cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the crockpot and stir to combine. Cover with the lid and cook for the remaining hour until the sauce thickens. Adjust the slow cooker setting to the warm setting until you are ready to serve them. Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks, or as a meal with rice if you desire.

Can I Make These on the Stovetop?

Yes! If you’re short on time, the stovetop is a great option!

Add the frozen meatballs and the bourbon sauce mixture to a large saucepan.
Stir to coat the meatballs with sauce, then cover the saucepan with a lid.
Simmer over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Serve and enjoy!

Slow Cooker Bourbon Meatballs

Music for the tastebuds: Wines from Dr Edge

One to watch: Margaret River’s Trait Wines

Willamette Valley: Three must-know producers flying under the radar

Winemaker to watch: Raúl Moreno

The post Under the radar winemaker: Dr Edge appeared first on Decanter.

Scientists are rethinking bamboo as a powerful new superfood

Sat, 17 Jan 2026 04:01:50 +0000

Bamboo shoots may be far more than a crunchy side dish. A comprehensive review found they can help control blood sugar, support heart and gut health, and reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. Laboratory and human studies also suggest bamboo may promote beneficial gut bacteria and reduce toxic compounds in cooked foods. However, bamboo must be pre-boiled to avoid natural toxins.

Why 2026 Is The Year That Caribbean Mixology Will Finally Get Its Time In The Sun

Sat, 17 Jan 2026 03:50:13 +0000

Forget the pre-mixed piña coladas and daiquiris—high-level cocktail culture in the Caribbean has been leveling up for years. Now its time for the rest of the world to pay attention.

Researchers found a tipping point for video gaming and health

Sat, 17 Jan 2026 03:31:11 +0000

Moderate video gaming appears harmless, but heavy gaming may take a toll on young people’s health. Researchers found that students gaming more than 10 hours a week had worse diets, higher body weight, and poorer sleep than lighter gamers. Below that level, health outcomes were largely similar. The findings suggest balance, not abstinence, is key.

7 Day High-Protein High-Fiber Diet Meal Plan

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 17:30:00 +0000

A free, 7-day high protein, high fiber diet meal plan including breakfast, lunch and dinner ideas and a shopping list. All recipes include macros and Weight Watchers points. 7 Day High-Protein High-Fiber Diet Meal Plan Following a meal plan that is high in protein and fiber is one of the easiest ways to feel better […]

Guess the Main Ingredient? Hint: It's NOT Potatoes

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 17:27:49 +0000

My easy homemade Ricotta Gnocchi makes for a protein-packed dinner the whole family will love! They are so much easier than traditional gnocchi because you... Read More

Weekly Meal Plan #73

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 13:00:00 +0000

printable shopping list

There’s a NEW recipe in this weekly meal plan, and it’s already a favorite at my house. This Alfredo Ravioli Casserole is rich, comforting, and perfect for nights when you want something warm and filling. There are other delicious, tried-and-true recipes in this week’s menu!

What’s For Dinner?

This weekly meal plan takes the stress out of dinnertime with easy, family-friendly recipes made from simple ingredients. A little prep at the start of the week means fewer grocery trips and faster, calmer weeknight dinners.

Monday: Cheesy Alfredo Ravioli Casserole
Tuesday: Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli
Wednesday: Walking Tacos
Thursday: Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
Friday: Sheet Pan Crispy Cheddar Pork Chops

printable meal plan and shopping list

How Many Does it Feed?

This free weekly meal plan provides 5 meals that will feed 4-6 people, depending on whether you are feeding adults or kids. With fresh new ideas and easy-to-make recipes, having a weekly menu plan will be a lifesaver.

Alfredo Ravioli Casserole

No ratings yet

Creamy ravioli layered with chicken and rich Alfredo sauce, baked until bubbly and cheesy. It's easy to prep and perfect for busy weeknights.

View Recipe

Slow Cooker Beef & Broccoli

The Better-For-You Rice-a-Roni Copycat I Make on Repeat

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 12:26:51 +0000

This homemade rice pilaf is a simple weeknight side dish that’s toasty, buttery, and so easy to make! It’s a healthier version of Rice-a-Roni and Near East pilaf, made with brown rice, angel hair pasta, and a few pantry staples. Rice Pilaf (Healthy Rice-A-Roni) I love rice pilaf and often make my own healthy Rice-A-Roni […]

Vitamin A may be helping cancer hide from the immune system

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 11:06:55 +0000

A vitamin A byproduct has been found to quietly disarm the immune system, allowing tumors to evade attack and weakening cancer vaccines. Scientists have now developed a drug that shuts down this pathway, dramatically boosting immune responses and slowing cancer growth in preclinical studies.

The rise of 'white Pinot Noir' in the Pacific Northwest

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 09:49:47 +0000

Can a black grape make a white wine? Although the question might seem odd, winemakers have been working with this idea for hundreds of years.

Although black/red grapes have dark skins, which is responsible for the colour when making red wine, most (though not all) have white flesh – and therefore white juice. This allows the production of white wines made from black grapes by quickly and gently pressing the grape and avoiding colour extraction.

The practice of using red grapes in still white wine production has been known for centuries, and wines made this way are often referred to as ‘blanc de noir’ (literally ‘white from black’).

Although an established style, it’s not a common one. The white Merlots made in Switzerland’s Lugano region and the use of Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier to make white Champagne, are among the most notable and famous examples.

But there’s a growing movement based around this concept in the Pacific Northwest of the United States.

From the ashes

In Oregon’s Willamette Valley, the relatively cool climate provides ideal conditions for Pinot Noir. Here, the grape is the leading variety, accounting for 60% of the overall planted acreage, according to the Oregon Wine Board.

However, the massive wildfires in 2020 and the fear that skins would retain smoke taint gave this new white wine production a boost, as it gave winemakers an outlet to salvage some of the black grapes from the difficult harvest by just using the white juice.

The result has been a growing number of ‘white Pinot Noirs’ that, rather than fading away as a one-off expediency, have become fixtures on winery line-ups.

Styles are varied, though many winemakers opt to age theirs in barrel for six to seven months before bottling – which means they’re ready in time for tastings in the spring.

In general, the profile is a clean, bright palate with notes of green apple, mandarin, and honeydew, with balanced minerality and acidity.

Tony Rynders of Tendril. Credit: Eric-Wolfinger.

Wine and film quiz: Test your knowledge

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 08:00:45 +0000

A clip from the Sideways film (2004).

Wine shows up in all kinds of films and television series, so we’ve updated this quiz from our archive with a host of new questions as a fun way to test your knowledge.

Below, you’ll find 10 multiple-choice questions on wine in films and hit television series, supplemented with a bit of trivia on celebrity-linked bottles and vineyards.

Festive wine quiz: 10 questions to test your knowledge

Wine labels quiz: Test your skills with these 10 questions

Guess the vintage: Bordeaux fine wine history quiz

The post Wine and film quiz: Test your knowledge appeared first on Decanter.

Sietze Wijma

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 15:54:34 +0000

Sietze Wijma is a new judge at the 2026 Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA).

DWWA Judge, Siteze Wijma

Sietze Wijma

Sietze Wijma is a wine educator based in the Netherlands. Through his company, The Art of Tasting, he delivers tasting courses built around a distinctive methodology in which wines are presented with added flavour compounds. This approach helps wine professionals develop confidence in identifying flavours and recognising faults.

The Art of Tasting flavour vials are used by wine educators around the world and have become a widely adopted tool in sensory education. Sietze holds an MSc in Sensory Science, the WSET Diploma, and is an Advanced Cicerone®.

In 2025, he presented a wine faults masterclass to judges at the Decanter World Wine Awards, which was very well received. He joins the Decanter World Wine Awards judging panel for the first time in 2026.

Follow Sietze on Instagram.

See more judges for the 2026 DWWA.

The post Sietze Wijma appeared first on Decanter.

Rosana Lisa

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 15:26:04 +0000

Rosana Lisa is a new judge at the 2026 Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA).

DWWA Judge, Rosana Lisa

Rosana Lisa

Rosana Lisa is an experienced winemaker and technical director with a career spanning research, production and winery management across Spain. In 2025, she was appointed Technical Director of Ramón Bilbao, where she leads winemaking strategy and technical development.

From 2015 to 2025, Rosana served as R and D Manager for Zamora Company’s wine division, working across multiple wineries on national and regional research projects focused on improving winemaking practices, including oxygen management, ageing vessels, vineyard microbiota, indigenous yeasts, climate change impacts, and energy efficiency.

She previously held technical management roles at Bodegas Palacio de la Vega and Sociedad Cooperativa Cirbonera in D.O. Navarra, overseeing vineyard management, production, ageing, and bottling. She also gained international harvest experience in Australia’s Barossa Valley.

In addition to her technical work, Rosana is a wine tasting trainer and a regular judge at international wine competitions. She joins the Decanter World Wine Awards judging panel for the first time in 2026.

See more judges for the 2026 DWWA.

The post Rosana Lisa appeared first on Decanter.

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