OTTAWA, ON, April 28, 2026 /CNW/ - As Canada faces increasing economic uncertainty and prepares for critical trade discussions with the United States, the Canadian craft distilling industry is calling on Prime Minister Mark Carney to take decisive and timely action to strengthen domestic businesses by finally extending to Canadian craft distilleries some of the same reduced excise policies that they already provide to Canadian wine, beer and cider.

Canadian distillers are currently operating under a significant structural disadvantage. Excise duties on spirits in Canada are up to 14 times higher than those in the United States, creating a major barrier to growth, investment, and innovation for Canadian producers. In practical terms, this imbalance places Canadian businesses and consumers at a severe competitive disadvantage even before trade negotiations begin.

At a time when Canada must prioritize the resilience and competitiveness of its domestic industries, failing to act would mean continuing to concede market share, investment, and long-term growth potential to international competitors like the United States.

The path forward is clear, practical, and already proven.

The Canadian Craft Distillers Alliance (CCDA), with the backing of every provincial association it represents, is proposing a targeted modernization of the excise framework through a progressive, volume-based model, an approach successfully implemented in the United States in 2017, which generated billions in economic activity.

Importantly, this is not an untested or foreign concept. Canada has already embraced a similar approach in the beer industry. A progressive excise structure has enabled microbreweries across the country to grow, invest, and thrive, while continuing to contribute to public revenues.

The question is no longer whether this model works, it is why it has not yet been extended to distilleries.

"This is a practical, proven solution that Canada already understands and applies successfully in other sectors," said Tyler Dyck, President of the Canadian Craft Distillers Alliance (CCDA). "At a time when economic pressures are mounting, we have an opportunity, right now, to strengthen Canadian businesses, support regional economies, and ensure our producers are competing on a level playing field. This is not about creating an advantage; it's about restoring fairness."

Beyond correcting a competitive imbalance, this reform represents a powerful economic lever. A targeted reduction in excise duties would unlock significant domestic investment, support job creation in rural and regional communities, and generate substantial economic returns across the country.

Canada has the foundation to reclaim its place as a global leader in spirits. Once recognized as a world capital of whisky production, the country still possesses the expertise, raw materials, and entrepreneurial strength required to reassert itself on the international stage.

But realizing that potential requires action.

"Canada has everything it needs to lead again in this space," added Dyck. "What we need now is a modern framework that allows our industry to grow into that potential. With the right policy in place, we can build globally competitive brands, drive exports, and create long-term economic value right here at home."

With a majority mandate now in place, the government has a clear opportunity, and no remaining justification for delay, to move forward.

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y., April 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Jägermeister today announces the launch of The Division of Jägermeister Dedicated to Ice Cold Shots (D.I.C.S.), a distinctly playful take on corporate structure that celebrates one undeniable truth: Jägermeister is best served ice cold.

Designed to solidify the brand's signature serve, D.I.C.S. rallies a growing community of fans who know that when Jägermeister hits 0°F, something special happens. It's smoother, more balanced, and made to be shared. The campaign brings that experience to life through a bold, tongue-in-cheek "corporate" world - shot entirely inside Jägermeister's actual U.S. office and featuring real employees - where the brand's dedication to delivering ice cold shots is taken to the next level.

Structured like a true organization, this totally serious division of Jägermeister is made up of distinct teams, each reinforcing the brand's commitment to the perfect ice cold experience. Research & Development prioritizes the advancement of the ritual of the perfect ice cold shot. Thermal Compliance ensures every pour meets the brand's exact temperature standards. The Doing Good branch fosters responsible enjoyment and positive community impact, while the Sports and Other Fun Stuff department focuses on bringing people together through culture, moments, and shared experiences.

"At its core, Jägermeister is about bringing people together. Whether it's the first round of the night, a spontaneous cheers, or a moment worth celebrating, ice cold shots become a shared ritual," said Cindy Wang Simms, CMO at Mast Jägermeister US. "Through this campaign we're showing our devotion to all things ice cold in a way that builds community around the ritual and creates more opportunities for people to connect, celebrate, and enjoy Jägermeister the way it was meant to be experienced."

D.I.C.S. will be brought to life through on-premise activations, influencer partnerships, paid and social-first content, and cultural moments.

The campaign invites consumers to become part of this growing community dedicated to doing things the right way. Visit the campaign website to learn more, create a custom icon showcasing a personalized D.I.C.S. title, and that's just the tip of the ice berg. A limited number of exclusive new member welcome kits will also be released to the first 1,000 who sign up.

Blending humor, lifestyle, and a bold creative lens, D.I.C.S. embraces Jägermeister's unapologetic spirit while reinforcing what consumers have known all along: the best moments start ice cold and are meant to be shared.

For more information visit the campaign website

Vancouver, B.C., April 23, 2026 – Last night, two of Vancouver’s leading cocktail destinations, and , earned spots on the prestigious 2026 North America’s 50 Best Bars list. The Keefer Bar ranked No. 7 overall and was named The Best Bar in Canada, while June made an impressive debut at No. 17 as a new entry (and third best bar in Canada).

“We’re incredibly honoured to see both of our bars recognized on this year’s North America’s 50 Best Bars list, alongside such a strong showing from across Canada,” says Keenan Hood, co-proprietor of both The Keefer Bar and June. "I've been in this industry a long time – almost my whole life and bartending about half of them. I've been a dishwasher, a cook, a bar back, but my heart is behind the bar. It's in my blood."

"To have The Keefer Bar named The Best Bar in Canada is the culmination of years of dedication and a continued deep love for this industry. And for June, which just celebrated its first anniversary, to be welcomed on the list at No. 17 is truly special. We’re immensely proud of both our teams and grateful to be part of such a talented community, representing both our city and our country.”

Hood’s fellow co-proprietor Cam Watt says, “I’m very proud of Keenan and his crew for placing both The Keefer Bar and June within the top 20 bars in all of North America. Keefer took top spot in all of Canada. It’s really an accomplishment given the level of competition. Good work, guys!”

The Keefer Bar, an apothecary cocktail bar located in Vancouver’s historic Chinatown, opened in February of 2010 on the first day of the Vancouver Winter Olympics. Since then, it has landed on several 50 Best Bars lists, including being recognized on the 2012 World’s 50 Best Bars as one to watch, and on the 2013 World’s 50 Best Bars extended list. In 2022, The Keefer Bar claimed the No. 25 spot on the inaugural North America’s 50 Best Bars list. In 2025, it landed at No. 28. The Keefer Bar is managed by Keenan Hood and fellow award-winning bartenders Amber Bruce (beverage director), Tristan Young (general manager), and Hugo Finan (bar manager).

June, a brasserie-inspired bi-level concept in Vancouver’s Cambie Village, just opened in March of 2025. Since opening, the neighbourhood has warmly embraced its creative cocktails and take on classic French dishes upstairs and has made LaLa, its 40-seat vinyl listening basement bar, a destination. June is founded by owner-operators Keenan Hood and Cam Watt, Dunya Hood (partner), and its opening team: Leticia Castro (general manager), Amber Bruce (beverage director), Connor Sperling (head chef), Satoshi Yonemori (bar manager), and Riley Maggs (head bartender).

“The bartending community is one of the most tight-knit in the hospitality industry, and these accolades are very special and not something we take for granted,” adds Bruce. “We’re always working and furthering our technique, while developing new flavours and creating spaces where guests feel genuinely welcome. It’s truly rewarding to see the work we put in resonate on an international stage.”

The North America’s 50 Best Bars rankings are of more than 300 anonymous industry experts, including bartenders, bar owners, drinks writers, and well-travelled discerning drinkers from across the region.

For more information about The Keefer Bar, please visit .
For more information, please visit .

April 22, 2026 — The list of North America’s 50 Best Bars was announced at a live awards ceremony at the Vancouver Convention Centre, celebrating the very best of the region’s cocktail industry. This was the second year in a row the awards were held in Vancouver, highlighting Canada’s growth as a leader in North America’s cocktail scene. The annual ranking showcases standout bars from across the US, Mexico, Canada and the Caribbean, recognizing excellence in drinks, hospitality and innovation.

New York’s Sip & Guzzle is crowned No.1 as The Best Bar in North America, sponsored by Perrier, and The Best Bar in Northeast USA. The venue has rapidly established itself as a defining force in the region’s cocktail culture, celebrated for its dynamic approach to hospitality and expertly executed drinks program. With a concept that seamlessly blends precision and creativity, Sip & Guzzle delivers an experience that resonates with both industry professionals and cocktail enthusiasts alike. Mexico City’s Bar Mauro follows at No.2, while New York’s Bar Snack takes the No.3 position, underscoring the continued dominance and diversity of cocktail culture across both cities.

The full list of North America’s 50 Best Bars 2026 is attached below.

Emma Sleight, Head of Content for North America’s 50 Best Bars, says: “The bars on this year’s list are exemplary in their ability to push boundaries and influence hospitality not only in North America, but across the globe. From established leaders to exciting new entries, the bars featured continue to push the standard of what a world-class drinks experience can be with their talent, creativity and resilience. We are thrilled to congratulate Sip & Guzzle for earning the No.1 position, along with all the incredible bars recognized this year.”

New York continues to assert itself as a global cocktail capital, with a significant number of bars featured on the list, including Sip & Guzzle (No.1), Superbueno (No.9), Clemente Bar (No.15), Martiny’s (No.23), Angel’s Share (No.31), Overstory (No.33), Double Chicken Please (No.35), Attaboy (No.37), Maison Premiere (No.40) and Employees Only (No.45). New entries include Bar Snack at No.3, also winner of the Disaronno Highest New Entry Award; this year’s Three Cents Best New Opening Award recipient Schmuck (No.4) and Bar Madonna (No.36). The city’s strong showing reflects its depth of talent and continued innovation across a range of bar styles and concepts.

Mexico City remains a powerhouse within the rankings, represented by Bar Mauro (No.2) as The Best Bar in Mexico, sponsored by Torres Brandy, Tlecān (No.5), Form + Matter (No.13), Mecenas (No.18), Licorería Limantour (No.20), Kaito del Valle (No.25) and Baltra Bar (No.48). This year’s winner of the Rémy Martin Legend of the List Award is Mexico City’s Handshake Speakesy (No.12). The city’s bars continue to set global standards, blending tradition with cutting-edge techniques.

New Orleans’ Jewel of the South (No.6) is named The Best Bar in South USA, sponsored by Mr Black, and Cure (No.21) is the winner of the Nikka Highest Climber Award, maintaining the city’s reputation for exceptional hospitality and cocktail heritage.

Chicago is represented by Kumiko (No.11), the winner of the Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award and The Best Bar in Midwest USA, Best Intentions (No.16), Gus’ Sip & Dip (No.27) and Bisous (No.30). San Francisco’s True Laurel (No.14), the winner of The Best Bar in West USA, sponsored by St-Germain, and Pacific Cocktail Haven (No.41) highlight the West Coast’s dynamic scene.

Additional entries in the US include Los Angeles’ Mírate (No.28) and Daisy Margarita Bar (No.44), Washington DC’s Press Club (No.34) and Service Bar (No.39), Miami’s Café La Trova (No.42) and Viceversa (No.46) and Houston’s Bandista (No.47).

The Best Bar in Canada, sponsored by Monkey Shoulder, is Vancouver’s The Keefer Bar (No.7). Additional Vancouver bars include June on Cambie (No.17), Prophecy (No.32) and Botanist Bar (No.38). Toronto features prominently with Bar Pompette (No.8), Library Bar (No.19), Mother (No.22) and Civil Works (No.29), reinforcing the Canada’s growing influence on the global cocktail stage.

Beyond major metropolitan hubs, the list also celebrates standout bars across the wider region, including El Gallo Altanero (No.10) from Guadalajara, Bekeb (No.24) from San Miguel de Allende and Selva (No.43) from Oaxaca.

La Factoría (No.26) from San Juan is named The Best Bar in the Caribbean, sponsored by NOAM, Library by the Sea (No.49) from Grand Cayman and Bon Vivants (No.50) from Nassau.

Allegory from Washington DC is named the winner of the Siete Misterios Best Cocktail Menu Award. The bar’s highly conceptual cocktail menu stands out for its imaginative storytelling, weaving together literary and cultural narratives with innovative drink design to create a deeply immersive guest experience. Ranked No.57 on this year’s extended 51–100 list, the bar was selected by the global Academy Chairs to receive this honor. First introduced in 2021, the award celebrates bars that excel in innovation, design, drink craftsmanship and menu storytelling.

This year’s Roku Industry Icon is Chris Hannah of Jewel of the South. For this award, all 300 members of the voting Academy are invited to nominate the individual who has made the most significant contribution to advancing the bar industry. Hannah is celebrated as a defining figure in modern American bartending, renowned for his deep respect for classic cocktail traditions and his role in shaping New Orleans’ contemporary drinks culture. His dedication to hospitality, mentorship and preserving the city’s rich cocktail heritage has rightfully earned him this recognition.

Schmuck (No.4) from New York earns the Three Cents Best New Opening Award, as the bar makes a standout debut on the list. Bringing a bold, unconventional energy to the city’s cocktail scene, Schmuck has quickly gained recognition for its irreverent approach to hospitality and genre-defying drinks. With a menu that balances technical precision with playful creativity, the bar has captured attention for its ability to reimagine classic formats through a distinctly modern, boundary-pushing lens.

Library Bar (No.19) in Toronto is awarded the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award, recognized for its refined yet responsible approach to modern hospitality. The bar integrates seasonal ingredients, thoughtful sourcing and low-waste practices into its cocktail program, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability without compromising its elevated guest experience.

Identidad (No.73) from San Juan is named the Campari One To Watch, an award given to a bar outside of the main list that the 50 Best team believes has the potential to feature in a future North America’s 50 Best Bars ranking. Rooted in Puerto Rican identity, the bar delivers a cocktail experience that celebrates Caribbean and Latin flavors while supporting local producers and ingredients. With a strong emphasis on culture, creativity and hospitality, Identidad is quickly emerging as a standout in the region’s drinks scene.

Daydream Rum Bar in Albuquerque is awarded the SevenRooms Best Bar Design Award, recognized for its transportive, escapist approach to design and atmosphere. Conceived as a momentary paradise, the bar blends tropical influences with an intimate, hidden setting to create a cocktail-focused retreat from the everyday. Its rum-driven program, paired with both classic and inventive drinks, enhances the immersive experience and reinforces its distinct sense of place.

Additional special award winners announced prior to the reveal of this year’s list include Chicago’s Kumiko (No.11) receiving the Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award and Freddy Andreasson of El Gallo Altanero (No.10) in Guadalajara, as the winner of Altos Bartenders’ Bartender Award.

Attachments:

50 Best Bars List 2026.pdf

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