News Briefs for September 10, 2024

•Sicily-based Donnafugata, part of the Folio Fine Wine Partners portfolio in the U.S., is introducing new packaging for its Lighea white wine, made from Zibibbo (Muscat of Alexandria) grapes. The new bottle is made in Sicily from recycled glass implemented by O-I Glass in collaboration with Fondazione SOStain, and weighs 410 grams, instead of the typical 550 grams, reducing its environmental impact. Retailing at $25 a bottle, the revamped Lighea bottle is rolling out now in New York, with national distribution coming next year. Donnafugata is led by fifth-generation vintners Antonio and José Rallo, and has 488 hectares (1,200 acres) of vineyards across five estates in Contessa Entellina, Pantelleria, Vittoria, Etna, and Marsala.

•Ardbeg 17 Year Old, Glenfiddich Grand Chateau, Clonakilty Pot Still, and newcomers from Bardstown Bourbon Co. and 2XO are among the offerings featured in Whisky Advocate’s latest weekly roundup. The website has all the details.

•Napa-based Quintessential has expanded its partnership with Washington state’s Goose Ridge Estate Winery to include the Monson Ranch Distillers craft spirits portfolio. The Monson portfolio includes Vido Vodka, Feather & Folly Gin, and Monson Ranch Rye Whiskey and VSOP Brandy. Both Monson Ranch and Goose Ridge are owned by Bill Monson. The ranch is based in Goose Gap, while Monson’s distillery and tasting room are based in Prosser, Washington.

•Atlanta, Georgia-based Tip Top Proper Cocktails has partnered with bartender Sam Ross to release canned Paper Plane and Penicillin cocktails. The duo, both originally created by Ross, are at 23% abv and come in 100-ml. cans. The Paper Plane is made with Bourbon, amaro, lemon, and bitters; and the Penicillin is made with Scotch whisky, ginger, lemon, and honey. Both are now available across the U.S. for a limited time in 4-packs of 100-ml. cans as well as single cans.

Tagged : Donnafugata, Goose Ridge Estate, Monson Ranch, Quintessential, Tip Top Proper Cocktails, Whisky Advocate

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