MONTEREY, Calif., April 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Republican Red Winery today announced it has received three prestigious awards at the 2026 Monterey International Wine Competition, including Best of Show and Platinum for its America 250 Sparkling Wine (scored 94 points) and Gold for its Vino MAHA Cabernet Franc (scored 91 points).

The Monterey International Wine Competition is recognized as one of the nation's respected wine judging events, bringing together experienced industry professionals including winemakers, sommeliers, wine writers, retailers, and educators. Wines are evaluated through a rigorous blind tasting process designed to ensure impartiality, with judges assessing entries based on quality, balance, structure, varietal expression, aroma, and finish.

At a time when the U.S. wine industry is experiencing declining consumption and an oversupply of grapes, Republican Red Winery continues to expand its portfolio through thoughtfully developed releases that resonate with consumers seeking meaning and connection in the products they choose. By focusing on craftsmanship, American sourcing, and wines tied to cultural moments and shared values, the winery has identified a distinct niche that continues to support growth even amid broader industry headwinds.

America 250 Sparkling Wine was created to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States and to honor the spirit of liberty, resilience, and unity that has shaped the American story. Bright and refined, the wine features lively bubbles, balanced acidity, and a crisp finish intended for meaningful celebrations and historic moments. As part of a limited commemorative collection, the wine reflects the belief that certain milestones deserve to be marked with intention and shared with others.

Vino MAHA Cabernet Franc reflects a philosophy rooted in heritage, authenticity, and intentional living. Thoughtfully crafted to emphasize balance, structure, and purity, the wine is inspired by traditions that have shaped the rhythm of home life for generations. Vino MAHA encourages a return to the table as a place of connection, conversation, and appreciation for the values that bring people together.

Both award-winning wines reflect Republican Red Winery's commitment to producing wines that prioritize quality while also embracing meaning and identity. The recognition highlights the winery's continued focus on thoughtful sourcing, careful production, and wines designed to complement meaningful occasions.

"These awards affirm what we believe at Republican Red Winery — that our customers love the labels, but it's the quality of the wine that keeps them coming back," said Founder Paul Johnson. "America 250 Sparkling Wine and Vino MAHA were both created to reflect values that bring people together: heritage, craftsmanship, and intentional living. We are proud to support American-made wine from grapes to glass and the farmers who make it possible, and we are honored to see these wines recognized by such a respected panel of judges."

LOUISVILLE, Ky., Apr. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- This May, Michter's Distillery is releasing US★1 Barrel Strength Sour Mash Kentucky Whiskey for the first time.

"When Michter's was being produced in the 1970's and the 1980's, the then- Pennsylvania distillery's most popular whiskey was its Sour Mash," said Michter's President Joseph J. Magliocco. "The Michter's US★1 Sour Mash that we make in Kentucky these days is a wonderful whiskey, and we're excited to have this opportunity to share it at barrel strength."

In 2019, Michter's US★1 Sour Mash received international recognition when it became the first American whiskey ever named "Whisky of the Year" by London- based The Whisky Exchange.

According to the Kentucky Distillers Association, "It was 1818 when Catherine Carpenter of Casey County recorded the first known recipe for sour mash, a game-changing technique that enabled a more consistent whiskey-making process and product." Michter's Master Distiller Dan McKee observed, "Most whiskey in the United States is made by the sour mash method. But the term is a bit of a misnomer. Our Sour Mash Whiskey is anything but sour. In fact, it is rich with delicious notes of toffee and stonefruit."

Michter's US★1 Barrel Strength Sour Mash has a suggested retail price of $120 per 750ml bottle in the United States. The average proof of the batches being offered in this 2026 release is 111.5 proof ( 55.75% ABV).

"The Michter's US★1 Small Batch Sour Mash Whiskey is known for its consistent, repeatable elegance and deliciously smooth quality at 86 proof," stated Michter's Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson. "It is a favorite of whiskey enthusiasts, and our fans will now be able to taste this unique product at barrel strength. In the spirit of keeping with the consistency and beauty and elegance of this product, we decided to offer this whiskey in a barrel strength form wherein the batch is created, but is left uncut and then undergoes our signature filtration protocol."

In October 2025, Michter's became the first whiskey to be named in three consecutive years The World's Most Admired Whiskey by an international academy of voters convened by UK-based Drinks International. Michter's has a rich and long legacy of offering traditional American whiskeys of uncompromising quality. With each of its limited production offerings aged to its peak maturity, Michter's highly acclaimed portfolio includes bourbon, rye, sour mash whiskey, and American whiskey. For more information about Michter's, please visit .

NEW YORK, April 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- No plans required. No flights booked. No out-of-office notes needed. The Captain Morgan Sliced lineup is officially taking a mini vacation with its NEW Captain Morgan Sliced Colada Style Drink Variety Pack. Featuring Piña Colada flavors including classic Piña Colada, Strawberry, Mango and Passionfruit, each offering bringing a distinct flavor option together in one variety pack, each delivering a taste of the tropics. Built for easy sipping, each ready-to-drink beverage features bright, creamy, fruit-forward taste in every can. The Captain Morgan Sliced Colada Style Drink Variety Pack is now available at select retailers nationwide.

Whether it's a spontaneous backyard hang, an unplanned beach day, a rooftop get-together, or clocking out early for Summer Fridays, Captain Morgan Sliced Colada is made for any getaway:

• At the heart of the collection, Piña Colada delivers the classic blend of coconut and pineapple flavors, with a bright, tangy finish for a balanced, lightly sweet canned malt beverage made for sunny days.
• Mango Colada leans into juicy, ripe mango flavors layered over a creamy coconut flavor, offering a refreshing-tasting, easy-drinking option with a crisp finish.
• Passionfruit Colada brings a more vibrant profile, combining tangy passionfruit flavors with smooth coconut flavor for a slightly tart, fruit-forward sip.
• Rounding out the lineup, Strawberry Colada pairs a light coconut flavor with ripe strawberry notes, delivering a smooth, naturally sweet finish.

The premium malt beverage line of canned cocktails has an ABV of 5% and are sold in a 12-count variety pack of 12 oz cans, and at a suggested retail price of $18.99.

"We know consumers are looking for simple ways to break from the everyday without overcomplicating the moment," says Victoria David, Brand Director, RTD at Diageo. "Captain Morgan Sliced Colada brings that idea of embracing micro getaway moments to life through a range of refreshing-tasting, ready-to-enjoy flavors – making it easy to tap into a 'Colada When You Wanna' mindset anytime, anywhere."

Toronto, ON — Grapes for Humanity is pleased to announce its 2026 Fine Wine Auction, taking place April 16 to 22, 2026, featuring an extraordinary offering of more than 3500 bottles of wine and spirits. The auction will raise funds in support of climate action alongside the organization’s core pillars of health, education, and the environment.

This year’s auction includes 32 dream lots and an exceptional lineup of rare bottles and unforgettable experiences, positioning the sale as one of the organization’s most exciting and ambitious to date. With wine donations having grown by more than 200%, the 2026 auction reflects the extraordinary generosity of donors, collectors, and partners who continue to rally behind Grapes for Humanity’s mission.

Dream lots are global passports to VIP adventures at some of the world’s finest wineries. Wine sales are available for pick up in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

From legendary Bordeaux and Bourgogne to singular collector experiences tied to music, culture, and world-renowned estates, the 2026 auction offers remarkable breadth and prestige. It also includes the distinctive Cuvée from the Heart wines, a unique collaboration of Ontario winemakers whose community blends have become one of the most meaningful and original expressions of the auction’s spirit.

Among the marquee offerings is a dinner for six with music icons Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson at Toronto’s legendary Barberian’s Steakhouse, featuring fine Bourgogne wines selected from Geddy Lee’s personal cellar. Another standout dream lot is a rare Epiphone Alex Lifeson Les Paul in Crimson Burst, personally signed by Alex Lifeson and Geddy Lee, creating an exceptional opportunity for collectors of music memorabilia and devoted Rush fans alike.

The auction also offers immersive wine travel experiences that money alone can’t secure. These include a private vineyard masterclass, cellar tasting, and family lunch for four at Domaine Dujac in Morey-Saint-Denis, an invitation-only vertical tasting at Dominus Estate in Napa Valley, an elegant three-day Taylor’s Port journey through Porto and the Douro Valley for two, and a two-day private immersion at Familia Torres in Spain’s Penedès and Priorat regions, complete with tastings, dining, accommodation, and a signed magnum of Mas La Plana 2015.

For serious collectors, the wine catalogue is equally compelling. Highlights include Château Latour 1982 and Château Mouton Rothschild 1982, both awarded 100 points by Robert Parker, as well as Château Mouton Rothschild 2016 and Château Cheval Blanc 2016, each representing benchmark expressions from Bordeaux. The auction also features Louis Jadot Montrachet Grand Cru 2019, Salon Le Mesnil Blanc de Blancs Cuvée S Brut 1990, Rayas Châteauneuf-du-Pape Réserve 2011, and a remarkable 6L bottle of Château d’Yquem 1989. Further highlights include a parcel of twelve half-bottles of Château d’Yquem 2005, Opus One 2018, and Next of Kyn No. 7 Cumulus Vineyard 2013 in magnum format.

Adding to the appeal for bidders, the Grapes for Humanity auction is a hammer-price-only auction, with no buyer’s premium and no tax. That means the winning bid is the final price paid, offering collectors a rare opportunity to acquire exceptional wines and experiences with complete pricing transparency.

“Each year, this auction tells a story of generosity through extraordinary bottles and experiences,” said Tony Aspler, founder of Grapes for Humanity. “What makes Grapes for Humanity special is that every lot, whether it is a First Growth from a legendary vintage or an unforgettable dinner shared around a table, contributes to something larger than itself.”

Grapes for Humanity has earned a respected place in Canada’s charitable and wine communities by bringing together collectors, donors, and supporters who believe that fine wine can be a force for good. The annual auction continues to attract attention not only for the calibre of its offerings but also for the meaningful impact created through the funds raised.

The 2026 Fine Wine Auction opens on April 16, 2026, and closes on April 22, 2026.

The auction can be found at rhumanity.com/fine-wine-auction" />www.grapesforhumanity.com/fine-wine-auction</a>.</p>"