Christopher Osburn
Writer
Author/Co-Author of 994 articles
Christopher Osburn is a food and drinks writer located in the Finger Lakes Region of New York. He's been writing professionally for almost twenty years. In that time, he has traveled all over the world from San Diego to Sydney in search of mouthwatering food, frosty beer, exciting cocktails, and complex whiskeys and other spirits. He has the pictures to prove it.
The best whiskeys of 2025
It’s time to turn the page on yet another year. 2025 was filled with memorable events across politics, sports, and news. It was also filled with an awful lot of whiskey releases. Now, we’re not going to say that a few bottles of bourbon, rye whiskey, and single malt Scotch are more important than lasting […]
Celebrate Dry January with Upstate Elevator’s new THC spirit
If you’re celebrating Dry January, are sober-curious, or simply interested in alcohol alternatives, and you’re looking for something to imbibe instead of your usual rum, whiskey, or tequila, the folks at Upstate Elevator have the perfect replacement beverage. Known for its cannabinoid beverages, the brand recently announced the launch of its first-ever zero-proof THC Spirit. […]
Just in time for Dry January, Bully Boy Distillers is launching a spirit-free cocktail line
Founded in 2010, Boston-based Bully Boy Distillers is well-known for its premium spirits lineup, including gin, amaro, vodka, rum, and whiskey. And while you can’t go wrong with any of its award-winning spirits, to celebrate Dry January, the distillery is launching a new line of spirit-free cocktails. Intermezzo It’s called Intermezzo, and this new line […]
Start the new year with Don Q Double-Aged Pedro Ximénez Cask Finish Rum
Don Q has been made in Ponce, Puerto Rico, for six generations and more than 155 years. There’s a reason it’s one of the most well-respected rum brands in the world. Recently, the brand announced a new, unique expression just in time for your New Year’s revelry. Don Q Double-Aged Pedro Ximénez Cask Finish Rum […]
Celebrate 2026 as the Year of the Horse with House of Rémy Martin’s special XO Cognac
2026 marks the Year of the Horse, the seventh sign in the Chinese zodiac’s 12-year cycle. To celebrate Chinese New Year on February 17th and its equine symbol, The House of Rémy Martin is partnering with well-known Chinese artist Xue Song for a special Lunar New Year bottle of its popular XO expression. Rémy Martin […]
Watch Hill Whiskey’s newest rare whiskey releases are not to be missed
Just in time for the new year, Watch Hill Whiskey announced the release of not one, but two unique whiskeys. The popular brand, known for its rare whiskey releases, is starting 2026 off on the right foot with a new bourbon and a rye whiskey. The latter is a collaboration with a well-known Louisville chef. […]
Jim Beam and Kenan Thompson want you to “refresh your season” if your favorite NFL team didn’t make the playoffs
There’s only one week left in the NFL season, and for many fans, their teams have already been eliminated. To help these fans cope with missing the playoffs, Jim Beam is launching its “Refresh Your Season” campaign featuring comedian and actor Kenan Thompson. “Refresh Your Season” The campaign’s goal is to help fans whose teams […]
How hazy IPAs became one of the most popular beer styles in America
Discover the hazy, juicy world of New England-style IPAs — one of the most popular beer styles today. Learn about their history, flavors, and the best hazy IPAs to try.
The best large batch cocktails to make for guests this holiday season
If you’re anything like us, you’re going to be hosting (or attending) at least a handful of holiday gatherings in the next few weeks. On top of the appetizers, heavy meals, and lively conversation with friends and family, it’s also a great time of year for cocktails. In my years of writing about (and drinking) […]
The best digestifs to drink this winter
With the holidays here, you’re likely to enjoy some heavy, seasonal meals. After all the turkey, ham, and sides, you’ll want something to settle your stomach and aid in digestion. That’s where digestifs come in—but not just any will do. What is a digestif? This brings us to one crucial question: what exactly is a […]
Tequila Ocho’s newest expressions support local community farmers
Tequila Ocho is known as a single-estate, single-field tequila brand. In an effort to show that terroir is as important to tequila as it is to wine, the brand is announcing new Terroir Select vintages. Tequila Ocho Terroir Select vintages The new Terroir Select vintages are single-region, multi-field tequilas produced from agave grown in one […]
Planteray Rum is launching one of the most authentic navy style rums ever
For those unaware, a navy-style rum is a high-proof expression distilled and bottled to taste like the spirit rationed to the British Royal Navy until 1970. Many brands make versions of this style. The newest and potentially most authentic comes from the folks at Planteray Rum. Planteray Mister Fogg Navy Rum Sail N°2 After five […]
A barleywine isn’t a wine, it’s a beer
If you live somewhere where cold temperatures and snow have already made an appearance, you might be surprised that winter hasn’t even officially started. But just because the coldest season doesn’t begin until December 21st, that doesn’t mean that you can’t start sipping wintry beers. The outside temperature would dictate that it’s time. A great […]
The makers of Barr Hill Gin are launching a new rye whiskey
Gin drinkers love the appeal of Barr Hill Gin, with its mix of botanicals and sweet, local honey. But the popular Vermont-based Caledonia Spirits, makers of this award-winning gin, make more than just this unique expression. In addition to a wide variety of spirits, the brand recently announced the launch of Phyllis Vermont Rye Whiskey. […]
The World Whiskey Society is launching its first ever flavored whiskey
If you’re an avid whiskey drinker, you know about the appeal of the World Whiskey Society’s releases. While you can’t go wrong with any of its limited-edition expressions, until now, that brand had never released a flavored whiskey. And it couldn’t be more aptly named. Doc Holliday Huckleberry Edition Fans of the brand’s popular Doc […]
Cask strength Scotch whiskies to warm you this winter
If you live in the northern part of the US, Canada, or literally anywhere in the upper part of the Northern Hemisphere, you’ve likely already found yourself immersed in winter weather (even though winter doesn’t officially begin until December 21st). If you asked us, frigid, snowy, downright miserable weather calls for a warming whisky. And […]
Moderation over indulgence: The shift in alcohol trends this year
Trends in the alcohol world come and go. While we’re used to trends like unique barrel-aged beers, over-the-top cocktails, and creatively aged and finished whiskeys, 2025 seems to be the year of moderation Being an elderly Millennial, this is news to me. I enjoy a nice glass of whiskey, a beer or two, or a […]
Wilderness Trail is launching a limited-edition wheated bourbon paying tribute to Kentucky history
Not only is Wilderness Trail Distillery launching a limited-edition 10-year-old wheated bourbon, but it’s doing it to commemorate the 250th anniversary of The Wilderness Road. For those unaware, it was a Kentucky trail that played a key part in America’s Westward expansion. What better reason to make a new whiskey? Wilderness Trail 10-year-old Wheated Bourbon […]
Celebrate the start of the holidays with the newest release of the Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Decanter Series
The folks at Heaven Hill are just about to crank the holiday season revelry up to eleven. That’s because they just announced the release of the Fall 2025 edition of Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Decanter Series. What could be better than this epic 11-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon shared with friends and family this winter? Fall 2025 […]
Old Hickory Bourbon is releasing a pair of long-aged whiskeys you won’t want to miss
Fans of long-aged bourbon will be excited for the news from Old Hickory Bourbon. That’s because the historic brand, founded in 1868, isn’t launching one expression but two. And both spent more than a decade aging to perfection. Hermitage Reserve 12-year-old Rye and 15-year-old Barrel Proof Whiskey Recently, the brand announced the release of Hermitage […]
Just in time for Dry January, Empress 1908 Gin is releasing a non-alcoholic spirit
If you’re anything like us, you’re going to imbibe a lot of beer, cocktails, and spirits during the holiday season. This means you’ll probably take part in “Dry January”. And, if you’re looking for a new non-alcoholic spirit to sip in the new year, make it the newest expression from Empress 1908 Gin. Empress 1908 […]
These five cocktails define the cocktail renaissance
If you stroll into your local cocktail bar with its creative bartenders and unique, flavorful drinks, you might not realize that the mixology world hasn’t always been like this. Beginning in the 1990s and culminating in the early 2000s, the cocktail renaissance not only introduced a new generation of innovative bartenders and a resurgence of […]
The best dark rums every bourbon drinker should try
If you’re a whiskey drinker, but you haven’t branched out into aged rum, you’re really missing out on some amazing expressions. There are a variety of reasons why dark rums are well suited for the palates of bourbon drinkers. I’ve been writing about alcohol for nearly two decades. In those years, I’ve tried every type […]
Copperworks is releasing a winter whiskey in collaboration with Pike Brewing Company
Fans of beer and whiskey have a reason to get excited about the newest release from Copperworks Distilling Co. That’s because the Seattle-based distillery is collaborating with Pike Brewing for a unique winter whiskey. Pike Kilt Lifter Whiskey This limited-edition expression is called Pike Kilt Lifter Whiskey, and it’s an American whiskey that was distilled […]
Still Austin Whiskey Co. just launched the perfect bourbon for cigar fans
Fans of Still Austin Whiskey Co. know all about the brand’s exceptional releases. But, even with all of its award-winning whiskeys, it just announced the release of its most premium whiskey to date. And it’s a perfect choice for drinkers who prefer to pair their bourbon with a fine cigar. Still Austin Tanager Cigar Blend […]
Rethinking happy hour: exploring the rise of sober curious drinking
If you’re paying attention to trends in the alcohol world, there’s a chance you’ve heard of the phrase “sober curious”. It’s a popular buzzword in the contemporary beer, liquor, wine, and cocktail scene. But what exactly does it mean, and why is it so popular lately? To me, as an alcohol writer (and drinker for […]
Old Forester pays tribute to the darkest era of American alcohol with its newest whiskey
Fans of bourbon eagerly await the release of Old Forester’s popular 117 series. They won’t have to wait long, as the iconic Louisville-based brand recently announced the release of a new expression in the series that pays tribute to a dark era in the American alcohol landscape. Old Forester 117 Series: Prohibition Era Still Proof […]
Jack Daniel’s is releasing a limited-edition rye whiskey that was finished in a unique barrel
If your experience with Jack Daniel’s doesn’t go past Old No. 7, you’re really missing out on some exciting limited-edition expressions. A good example is the iconic Lynchburg, Tennessee-based brand’s newest release. Jack Daniel’s Distillery Series #16 It’s called Jack Daniel’s Distillery Series #16, and it’s a rye whiskey with a mash bill of 70% […]
The 6 best whiskey stocking stuffers I’ve found for cocktail lovers
It’s finally December, and that means that you had better get started on your holiday shopping. In fact, if you haven’t started yet, you’re a little behind. You should have already started months ago. Lucky for you, if you’re buying gifts for whiskey fans, there are a lot of options to choose from. You can […]
The holiday spirits I’m stocking up on to make every gathering feel special
If you somehow missed it, we are in the midst of the holiday season. This means a seemingly endless number of get-togethers and parties from now until New Year’s Eve. Also, this means you’ll be eating a large number of gut-busting, indulgent meals. All of these meals and the various festivities are likely to be […]
The Christmas beers I can’t stop sipping this holiday season
It’s officially “the most wonderful time of the year”. And we don’t just mean that it’s finally December. The start of the last month of the year means it’s time for the rich, malty, sometimes spiced Christmas beer. So, you might say that it’s actually the most wonderful time for a beer. Over the years, […]
Buy a bottle of “The World’s Best Bourbon Whiskey” for a whiskey-loving friend this holiday season
Searching for the perfect gift for a bourbon lover? There’s still time to pick up one of the most sought-after bottles of the year: Calumet Farm 18-Year-Old Centennial Bourbon Whiskey. Better yet, pick one up for yourself and a whiskey-loving friend, family member, or even a co-worker who deserves more than a novelty coffee mug […]
Benriach is launching a new whisky that has been maturing since 1994
Back in 1994, movies like ‘Pulp Fiction’, ‘Forrest Gump’, and the holiday classic ‘The Santa Clause’ were in theatres. Bill Clinton was the president, and ‘Friends’ premiered on NBC. It’s also the year Benriach’s newest single malt Scotch whisky began its maturation process. Benriach Shades of Smoke It’s called Benriach Shades of Smoke and this […]
My favorite winter cocktails that shine with blended Scotch whisky
It might seem like summer just ended, but we are already heading straight toward the holiday season and winter. There’s no stopping the impending frigid, dark, seemingly endless season. This means that in many parts of the Northern Hemisphere, you can count on cold temperatures, long nights, and maybe even some snow. It also means […]
What does “premium” actually mean in the spirits world?
If you’ve spent any time perusing the aisles at your local liquor retailer, you’ve probably seen the word “premium” used to describe a bottle of booze. Most often used to refer to vodka (though other spirits use it as well), premium is a bit of a mystery. If you’re looking for an official definition, you […]
Just in time for the holidays, Ole Smoky Distillery is launching a limited-edition, moonshine advent calendar
Founded in 2010, Ole Smoky is the most well-known and awarded moonshine distillery in the country. You can’t go wrong with any of its popular flavored moonshine products. But wouldn’t you rather try a whole bunch of flavors without having to purchase countless full-sized bottles? Thanks to the brand’s new moonshine advent calendar, you can. […]
Well-known for its flavored whiskeys, Bird Dog is releasing a Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Fans of flavored whiskey know all about the appeal of Bird Dog Whiskey. This brand of the Western Spirits Beverage Company, based in Bowling Green, Kentucky, hasn’t simply won a few awards over the years. It’s the most awarded flavored whiskey brand in America. It has been crafting high-quality, memorable flavored whiskeys since 2010. Recently, […]
How to make cocktails at home even if you’re a total beginner
You do need some bottles of liquor, fresh ingredients, bitters, and at least a few tools.
The aged tequilas I recommend to every whiskey drinker when temps drop
As the weather turns cooler and the days grow shorter, drinkers are looking towards nuanced aged spirits. And while whisk(e)y might be the top choice, don’t sleep on tequila this fall and winter. Especially extra añejo tequila. I’ve spent almost two decades writing about alcohol. If you ask me, one of the best alternatives to […]
The Glenlivet’s new single malt Scotch whisky was matured for more than five decades
In the pantheon of single malt Scotch whisky brands, there are few names as timeless as The Glenlivet. While you can’t go wrong with any of its flagship or long-aged expressions, if you really want to get the most out of this iconic brand, you’ll splurge for a bottle of the newest release from its […]
New Riff is once again releasing its popular Winter Whiskey
If you wanted to try New Riff’s popular Winter Whiskey last year, but didn’t get a chance, you can get a bottle this Friday. That’s because the seasonal bourbon whiskey will once again be released on Black Friday. But that’s not all: the Kentucky-based brand will also be relaunching its Sherry Finished Malted Rye Whiskey. […]
Yes, Elijah Craig is really launching a bourbon-scented cologne
If you’re anything like us, before you take a sip of your favorite bourbon, you enjoy a few sniffs of the various aromas. And while there’s no disputing the appeal of nosing a whiskey before drinking it, have you ever wanted to smell like your favorite whiskey? Well, now you can, thanks to the folks […]
Compass Box Scotch Whisky is launching an AI-powered whisky guide
Founded in 2000, Compass Box is the most heavily awarded independent whisky brand in the whole world. It’s a big name in the Scotch whisky world, especially when it comes to fans of nuanced, flavored blended Scotch whiskies. Recently, the iconic brand announced that instead of releasing a new expression, it would instead be launching […]
How Japanese whisky blends tradition and innovation for a unique taste
Explore the world of Japanese whisky, from its rich history and delicate flavors to the best bottles to try. Learn why Japanese whisky should be on your radar.
Yes, you can drink IPAs in winter (these are my go-to styles)
If you’re anything like us, you spend the summer months sipping West Coast IPAs, Hazy IPAs, and anything piney, hoppy, and pleasantly bitter. But, even if you’re a self-proclaimed “hop head”, you still might stop drinking IPAs in favor of darker beers when the weather begins to turn cool. We think that’s a shame. I’ve […]
Gunpowder Irish Gin is launching a new seasonal expression just in time for the holidays
Just in time for all of your holiday get-togethers and parties, Gunpowder Irish Gin is launching a new collaboration with two-time world champion mixologist and bartender Bruno Vanzan. It just might be the perfect flavored gin for the holidays and winter months to come. Gunpowder Irish Gin with Italian Fig & Laurel Recommended Videos It’s […]
Sazerac Rye Whiskey Full Proof is a new permanent addition to the Buffalo Trace portfolio
Fans of high-proof whiskey will be happy to hear about the newest permanent expression from Buffalo Trace. The popular Kentucky-based distillery is adding a full proof rye whiskey to its ever-growing portfolio, and it’s a name rye whiskey drinkers know well. Sazerac Rye Whiskey Full Proof Recommended Videos The newest permanent expression in Buffalo Trace’s […]
The legacy of the 1990s beer boom — and what’s still worth drinking today
I’ve been drinking beer for over two decades. In that time, I’ve seen a boom in the American brewing world from infancy to today. I turned twenty-one back in 2002, and back then, there were only around 1,400 breweries. At last count, we are nearing 10,000 breweries. And while that’s a big difference in the […]
Mount Gay is launching a new premium white rum that’s perfect for the home mixologist
For those unaware, Mount Gay is the world’s oldest continuously running rum distillery, with a history dating back to 1703. It produces a myriad of award-winning rums, including Mount Gay XO, Mount Gay Eclipse, and others. Recently, the renowned brand announced the launch of a new premium white rum that you’ll want to add to […]
