News Briefs for May 2, 2023

•In case you missed yesterday’s news alert, Spirit of Gallo has acquired RTD brand Fishers Island Lemonade for an undisclosed sum. The 9% abv canned cocktail brand is made with barrel-aged whiskey and vodka and retails at $16 a 4-pack. Here’s the full story.

•Diageo’s Orphan Barrel Whiskey Co. has announced Scarlet Shade, the first rye whiskey from the brand, set to hit shelves across the U.S. this month. The 14-year-old whiskey was distilled in Indiana, aged in Kentucky, and bottled in Tennessee at 45% abv. Scarlet Shade is now rolling out in select retailers across the U.S. for a suggested price of $200 a 750-ml.

•Napa-based Folio Fine Wine Partners is adding to its Italian portfolio with Isole e Olena, an estate in Chianti Classico recently purchased by EPI Group, which holds a majority stake in Folio. Isole e Olena is located in San Donato in Poggio and includes 140 acres of vineyards. Folio will represent six wines from Isole e Olena, ranging from $35 to $150 SRP. Rolling out nationally this month to fine wine retailers and restaurats, they include Chianti Classico ($35), Chardonnay ($80), Vin Santo ($85), Syrah ($95), Cabernet Sauvignon ($130), and Cepparello ($150).

•La Pulga, a new Tequila brand founded by Texas restaurateur Sarah Castillo, club owner Andrew De La Torre, and real estate developer Stephen Slaughter, is now available across the Lone Star State. The brand is named for the outdoor market on the north side of Ft. Worth, Texas and is distilled in Jalisco from 100% blue agave. The brand is launching with Blanco and Reposado releases, both at 40% abv, with the Reposado aging for seven months in ex-Bourbon barrels. La Pulga is distributed by RNDC. The Blanco retails for $45 and the Reposado for $55.

Tagged : Diageo, Fishers Island Lemonade, Folio Fine Wine Partners, La Pulga, Orphan Barrel Whiskey Co., Spirit of Gallo

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