PLCB Users Group

PLCB spirits catalog changes for the week of August 23rd:

Discontinued Products:

• Aalborg Akavit 750 ML (#006534, Closeout, $8.19)
• Bushmills 1608 750 ML (#056652, SLO, $49.99)
• Ferrand Cognac Memoires 750 ML (#050702, SLO, $165.39)
• Landy Cognac VS 750 ML (#504145, SLO, $28.99)
• Landy Cognac XO 750 ML (#065014, SLO, $79.29)
• Pappy Van Winkle's Whiskey 20 Years Old Family Reserve 750 ML (#009532, Limit Dist, $89.99)
• Pinnacle Vodka Cherry Flavored 50 ML (#005255, One Time, $0.99)
• Wild Turkey Rare Breed Brbn 750 ML (#005423, Closeout, $21.89)

Relisted:

• Belvedere Cytrus Vodka 1 L (#055116, SLO, $25.89)
• Tommy Bahama Light Rum 80 Proof 1.75 L (#003083, One Time, $19.99)

New Products:

• Ardbeg Corryvrecken Single Malt Scotch 750 ML (#504288, SLO, $84.99)
• Ardbeg Supernova Single Malt Scotch 750 ML (#504289, SLO, $119.99)
• Bacardi Big Apple P. R. Rum 750 ML (#004343, Closeout, $9.99)
• Chieftain's Rare Single Malt Scotch Allt A'Bhainne 31yr 86 Proof 750 ML (#505359, SLO, $127.19)
• Chieftain's Rare Single Malt Scotch Benrinnes 11yr Tokaji Finish 86 Proof 750 ML (#505360, SLO, $73.89)
• Chieftain's Rare Single Malt Scotch Caol Ila 17yr 86 Proof 750 ML (#505361, SLO, $96.59)
• Chieftain's Rare Single Malt Scotch Dalmore 11yr Madeira Finish 86 Proof 750 ML (#505362, SLO, $77.09)
• Chieftain's Rare Single Malt Scotch Glen Moray 18yr 86 Proof 750 ML (#505363, SLO, $93.29)
• Chieftain's Rare Single Malt Scotch Glencadam 22yr 86 Proof 750 ML (#505365, SLO, $120.29)
• Chieftain's Rare Single Malt Scotch Glenrothes 14yr Burgundy Finish 86 Proof 750 ML (#505364, SLO, $78.79)
• Chieftain's Rare Single Malt Scotch Linkwood 16yr 86 Proof 750 ML (#505366, SLO, $77.29)
• Chieftain's Rare Single Malt Scotch Longmorn 13yr 86 Proof 750 ML (#505367, SLO, $72.19)
• Chieftain's Rare Single Malt Scotch Port Ellen 25yr 86 Proof 750 ML (#505368, SLO, $265.39)
• Chieftain's Rare Single Malt Scotch Spring Bank 39yr 86 Proof 750 ML (#505369, SLO, $396.39)
• Isle of Skye 8yr Blended Scotch Whisky 86 Proof 750 ML (#505370, SLO, $32.99)
• Michter's US 1 Single Barrel Rye Kentucky 84.8 Proof 750 ML (#010932, Luxury, $44.99)
• Pour Moi Cognac VSOP 375 ML (#505446, SLO, $39.69)
• Prairie Vodka Organic 750 ML (#501506, SLO, $22.89)
• Skyy Infusion Ginger Vodka 70pf 750 ML (#003450, Regular, $15.99)
• Villa Massa Limoncello 50 ML (#505552, SLO, $2.99)

Pour Moi is...um..."Cognac for Women." Really. The (male) founder of the brand ran a bunch of tasting panels composed of "average American women" and found that they all liked their cognac "smooth and fruity," so he blended a cognac to fit. Before you laugh, note that BTI gave it 89 points, the same score they gave Martell XO.

Michter's US*1 Rye made it to the online store finally. I was worried when I saw the price at first, but because of strong demand Michter's is getting more expensive everywhere in the country, so the PA price is within a few dollars of most out-of-state retailers now. I think it's worth it though--it's a rustic, kick-you-in-the-ass rye with a ton of flavor.

PLCB spirits catalog changes for the week of August 16th:

Discontinued Products:

• Boomsma Gin Jonge 750 ML (#051815, SLO, $28.89)
• Fragoli Liqueur with Whole Strawberries 750 ML (#051247, SLO, $33.19)
• Galliano Imp. Liqueur 375 ML (#004965, Closeout, $9.99)
• Hangar One Straight Vodka 750 ML (#504246, SLO, $38.59)
• Seagram's Gin & Juice 750 ML (#004993, Closeout, $4.99)
• Seagram's Gin Apple Twisted 50 ML (#005372, One Time, $0.99)
• Skyy Infusions Raspberry Vodka 750 ML (#006155, Closeout, $8.79)
• Svedka Raspberry Flavored Vodka 70 Proof 50 ML (#005699, One Time, $0.99)
• Tommy Bahama Light Rum 80 Proof 1.75 L (#003083, One Time, $19.99)
• Tommy Bahama White Sand Light Rum with Mojito Picnic Set 750 ML (#005831, One Time, $28.99)
• Zapata Tequila 1.75 L (#007706, Closeout, $11.49)

The Boomsma probably isn't coming back, which means Anchor Genevieve is the only genever left in PA.

Moved to Closeout:

• Three Olives Passionfruit Vodka 70pf 750 ML (#005086, Closeout, $17.99)

Relisted:

• Hangar One Mandarin Blossom Vodka 750 ML (#504251, SLO, $38.59)
• Olifant Imp. Vodka 750 ML (#004371, Closeout, $8.99)
• Wild Turkey Rare Breed Brbn 750 ML (#005423, Closeout, $21.89)

New Products:

• 901 Silver Tequila 80pf 750 ML (#003435, Regular, $45.99)
• Early Times Kentucky Whiskey 1 L (#505258, SLO, $10.29)
• El Dorado Dark Rum 80 Proof 750 ML (#505243, SLO, $12.49)
• Hangar One Mandarin Blossom 80pf 750 ML (#505208, SLO, $40.89)
• Iceberg Gin 80pf 750 ML (#505209, SLO, $17.39)
• Irish Manor Irish Whiskey 750 ML (#003493, Regular, $19.99)
• Jameson Rarest Irish Whiskey 92pf 750 ML (#505267, SLO, $309.29)
• Knappogue Castle Single Malt Irish Whiskey 12yr 80pf 750 ML (#505270, SLO, $40.99)
• Murray McDavid Bunnahabhain 10 Year Old Port Cask Finish Single Malt Scotch 92 Proof 750 ML (#030972, Luxury, $82.49)
• Murray McDavid Highland Park 14 Year Old Chateau Lafite Rothschild Cask Finish Single Malt Scotch 92 Proof 750 ML (#030970, Luxury, $105.99)
• Murray McDavid Isle of Arran 11 Year Old 1996 Sherry Aged Single Malt Scotch 92 Proof 750 ML (#030969, Luxury, $72.49)
• Myers Legend Rum 80 Proof 750 ML (#505102, SLO, $49.99)
• Rum Chata 750 ML (#505282, SLO, $23.99)

901 Tequila is another celeb-endorsed spirit, this time from Justin Timberlake. Surprisingly, it's actually quite good, so I'm pleased to see the PLCB add it to their growing selection of tequilas.

Knappogue Castle 12-year-old is the first non-vintage bottling by Knappogue Castle, and both John Hansell and Chris Null had nice things to say about it.

RumChata is a rum cream liqueur that's made with horchata, a traditional Mexican cinnamon-flavored rice drink. It's got some good reviews out there, so if you're a cream liqueur fan you might want to SLO a bottle.

Following the bad example I set last year, I missed almost a month of updates due to Tales of the Cocktail and other travel, so this post covers everything from July 12th to now. It's kind of gigantic, so you may want to pour yourself a drink before continuing.

Discontinued Products:

• 26000 Vodka Lychee Infused 750 ML (#055015, SLO, $36.19)
• Aalborg Akavit 750 ML (#503010, SLO, $18.29)
• Aberlour Single Malt 21yr 750 ML (#053446, SLO, $96.29)
• Absolut Raspberri Vodka Raspberry Flavored 1 L (#009887, Closeout, $14.69)
• Absolut Vodka New Orleans Flavored 750 ML (#006540, One Time, $14.99)
• Admiral Berentzen Pear 750 ML (#500621, SLO, $18.79)
• Amaro Ramazzotti Herbal Liqueur Italy 70 Proof 750 ML (#010635, Luxury, $21.99)
• Barbayanni Ouzo Aphrodite 750 ML (#041657, SLO, $17.99)
• Barenjager Honey Liqueur 750 ML (#054526, SLO, $28.99)
• Beefeater Imp. Dry Gin - Flask 375 ML (#007293, Closeout, $6.39)
• Blue Angel Vodka 1 L (#502739, SLO, $29.79)
• Cerbois VSOP Nv 750 ML (#063566, SLO, $38.99)
• Cerbois XO Armagnac 750 ML (#058966, SLO, $59.99)
• Citadelle Apple Vodka 70pf 750 ML (#064459, SLO, $21.09)
• Citadelle Vodka Apple 1 L (#065348, SLO, $22.29)
• Citadelle Vodka Raspberry 750 ML (#062348, SLO, $23.29)
• Clear Creek Apple In the Bottle Brandy 80 Proof 750 ML (#010860, Luxury, $40.99)
• DeKuyper Cherry Brandy 1 L (#055590, SLO, $11.39)
• DeKuyper Luscious Apple Barrel Schnapps 750 ML (#008988, Closeout, $5.99)
• Don Q Mojito Rum 750 ML (#042370, SLO, $14.49)
• Flor de Cana Black Label Rum 750 ML (#055416, SLO, $21.19)
• Four Roses Mariage Bourbon 750 ML (#500474, SLO, $82.79)
• Gabriel and Assoc Fin Bois Cognac 750 ML (#500683, SLO, $40.99)
• Gabriel and Assoc Grand Champ Cognac 750 ML (#500684, SLO, $97.89)
• Giori Sambuca 750 ML (#067805, SLO, $21.69)
• Grand Marnier Centcinquantenaire 750 ML (#003584, Closeout, $114.19)
• Hangar One Mandarin Blossom Vodka 750 ML (#504251, SLO, $38.59)
• Hangar One Vodka Citron and Ginger 750 ML (#056092, SLO, $27.59)
• Hangar One Vodka Citron Buddhas Hand 750 ML (#057981, SLO, $40.79)
• Hangar One Vodka Spiced Pear 750 ML (#069890, SLO, $40.79)
• Hiram Walker Melon Liqueur 1 L (#067482, SLO, $10.19)
• Inocente Tequila 750 ML (#501336, SLO, $41.59)
• Jim Beam Red Stag Bourbon 1 L (#055580, SLO, $20.79)
• Kahlua and Vanilla Co Pack 40 Proof 1500 ML (#005488, One Time, $19.99)
• Kahlua Especial Imp. Coffee Liqueur 750 ML (#008107, Closeout, $13.49)
• Lauria Alpine Crm Liq 750 ML (#070547, SLO, $25.59)
• Liquore Strega 750 ML (#009612, Closeout, $18.69)
• Luxardo Amaretto 750 ML (#062333, SLO, $26.99)
• Makers Mark 46 Bourbon 94 Proof 750 ML (#503838, SLO, $36.49)
• Margaritaville Calypso Coconut 750 ML (#065643, SLO, $16.19)
• Margaritaville Island Lime 750 ML (#071867, SLO, $16.29)
• Margaritaville Last Mango Liqueur 750 ML (#064883, SLO, $18.69)
• Margaritaville Passionfruit 750 ML (#059098, SLO, $15.29)
• Mathilde Peach Liqueur 750 ML (#053614, SLO, $37.19)
• Mojito Rum Raspberry 1.75 L (#007113, Closeout, $9.99)
• Molinari Sambuca 750 ML (#059780, SLO, $23.99)
• Olifant Imp. Vodka 750 ML (#004371, Closeout, $8.99)
• Phillips Vodka Uv Raspberry Flavored 50 ML (#004869, One Time, $0.99)
• Pierre Ferrand Ancestrale 70yr 750 ML (#058987, SLO, $680.19)
• Pierre Ferrand Cognac Reserve 750 ML (#065020, SLO, $73.09)
• Pierre Ferrand Selection des Anges 30yr 750 ML (#059476, SLO, $157.99)
• Pinnacle Vodka Raspberry Flavored 50 ML (#005266, One Time, $0.99)
• Plantation Barbados Rum 750 ML (#058462, SLO, $39.99)
• Plantation Grande Reserve Barbados Rum 5 Year Old 750 ML (#500662, SLO, $21.99)
• Plantation Rum 20th Anniversary 750 ML (#500569, SLO, $44.99)
• Plantation Trinidad Rum 750 ML (#066265, SLO, $35.99)
• Prichards Cranberry Rum 750 ML (#068894, SLO, $23.69)
• Prichards Crystal Rum 750 ML (#068895, SLO, $23.69)
• Prichards Double Barreled Bourbon 750 ML (#068892, SLO, $50.09)
• Prichards Fine Rum 750 ML (#068897, SLO, $32.49)
• Prichards Sweet Georgia Belle Liqueur 750 ML (#068899, SLO, $23.69)
• Prichards Sweet Lucy Liqueur 750 ML (#068893, SLO, $23.69)
• Pritchards Key Lime Rum 750 ML (#050590, SLO, $23.69)
• Pyrat XO Res Rum 750 ML (#062696, SLO, $30.29)
• Rock Hill Farms Bourbon 750 ML (#009535, Closeout, $34.99)
• Scapa Scotch 16yr 750 ML (#062823, SLO, $45.29)
• Stroh Obstler Fruit Brandy 750 ML (#007351, Closeout, $12.09)
• Tangle Ridge Canadian 750 ML (#055688, SLO, $25.89)
• Thomas Handy Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey 134 Proof 750 ML (#009458, Limit Dist, $59.99)
• Van Gogh Dutch Chocolate 750 ML (#068647, SLO, $21.39)
• Yeni Raki 1 L (#054499, SLO, $17.99)

Aalborg Akvavit, Berentzen Pear Liqueur, Barenjager Honey Liqueur, DonQ Mojito Rum, Maker's Mark 46 Bourbon and Scapa 16yr Scotch were all recently listed in stores or added to the online store, allowing the distributors to pull the products' SLO codes. Click on the old product code above to be redirected to the new listing.

Many other SLO codes were delisted as a result of brands moving from one distributor to another: Ferrand/Citadelle from Southern to Majestic, Hangar One from Southern to Capital, Lauria Alpine Cream from MHW to Laird, Luxardo from Laird to Majestic, Margaritaville from Southern to Majestic, and Prichard's from producer-fulfilled to Nationwide. (See below for more on Prichard's.)

Winebow appears to have pulled the Plantation rums from PA entirely.

Moved to Closeout:

• Belvedere Imp. Polish Cytrus Vodka 50 ML (#009168, Closeout, $2.49)
• Chi-Chi's Cosmopolitan Cocktail Mix 1.75 L (#007011, Closeout, $11.99)

Relisted:

• Anchor Distillery Junipero Gin 750 ML (#051244, SLO, $38.89)
• Bruichladdich Links Valhalle 750 ML (#042437, SLO, $79.99)
• DeKuyper Orange Curacao 1 L (#052956, SLO, $13.69)
• El Mayor Tequila Reposado 750 ML (#006873, One Time, $14.99)
• Galliano Imp. Liqueur 375 ML (#004965, Closeout, $9.99)
• Jose Cuervo Tequila Citrico 750 ML (#005665, Closeout, $19.99)
• Laphroaig Scotch 10 Years Old Cask Strength 111 Proof 750 ML (#009181, Closeout, $38.19)
• Skyy Infusions Raspberry Vodka 750 ML (#006155, Closeout, $8.79)

Junipero is once again available by SLO, but you might as well order it from the online store and save yourself $5.

New Products:

• 360 Double Chocolate Vodka 70pf 750 ML (#003398, Regular, $19.99)
• 4 Orange Vodka 80pf 750 ML (#003433, Regular, $24.99)
• 99 Grapes Schnapps 99pf 750 ML (#003430, Regular, $15.99)
• Absolut Vodka Raspberri 50 ML (#504846, SLO, $1.49)
• Admiral Nelson Coconut Rum 70pf 750 ML (#003375, Regular, $8.99)
• Amate Anejo Tequila 750 ML (#504674, SLO, $49.69)
• Amate Reposado Tequila 750 ML (#504673, SLO, $44.09)
• Amate Silver Tequila 750 ML (#504661, SLO, $38.59)
• Antigua Cruz Silver Tequila 80pf 750 ML (#003476, Regular, $24.99)
• Aqua Perfecta Framboise 375 ML (#010842, Luxury, $19.99)
• Art In the Age Ginger Snap 80pf 750 ML (#003383, Regular, $32.99)
• Bacardi Superior PET 1.75 L (#003489, One Time, $19.99)
• Bakon Vodka 80 Proof 750 ML (#010641, Luxury, $29.99)
• Banks Rum 86 Proof 750 ML (#504932, SLO, $33.99)
• Beefeater Summer Gin 80pf 750 ML (#504896, SLO, $26.09)
• Berentzen Pear Liqueur 30pf 750 ML (#003329, Regular, $15.99)
• Black Tot British Royal Navy Rum 750 ML (#504973, SLO, $1100.99)
• Blackmaker Rootbeer Liqueur 750 ML (#003477, Regular, $19.99)
• Burnett's Fruit Punch Vodka 70pf 750 ML (#003365, Regular, $9.99)
• Cacique Rum 750 ML (#505100, SLO, $19.99)
• Castello Banfi Grappa Brunello di Montalcino 750 ML (#505038, SLO, $45.89)
• Chambord Vodka 75pf 750 ML (#003335, Regular, $22.99)
• Citadelle Gin 750 ML (#504710, SLO, $29.99)
• Conjure Cognac 750 ML (#003437, Regular, $32.99)
• Creme Yvette Delicieuse Liqueur France 55 Proof 750 ML (#030980, Luxury, $44.99)
• Cruzan 9 Spiced Rum 750 ML (#003367, Regular, $14.99)
• Crystal Head Vodka 80pf 1.75 L (#003338, Regular, $99.99)
• DeKuyper Apricot Flavored Brandy 70pf 1 L (#504940, SLO, $13.79)
• Dickel No 8 Whiskey 750 ML (#003496, Regular, $14.99)
• Diplomatico Anejo Rum 750 ML (#504658, SLO, $18.59)
• Diplomatico Blanco Ultra Premium Rum 750 ML (#504657, SLO, $38.59)
• Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva Rum 750 ML (#504660, SLO, $44.09)
• Diplomatico Reserva Rum 750 ML (#504659, SLO, $26.29)
• Don Pantaleon Tequila 1 L (#003233, Limit Dist, $12.89)
• Don Q Mojito Rum 40p 750 ML (#003394, Regular, $13.99)
• El Dorado 8yr Rum 80 Proof 750 ML (#504485, SLO, $24.89)
• El Dorado Spiced Rum 80 Proof 750 ML (#505000, SLO, $15.19)
• El Jimador Blanco Tequila 80pf 750 ML (#003336, Regular, $19.99)
• Espolon Reposado Tequila 80pf 750 ML (#003441, Regular, $24.99)
• F Meyer Eau de Vie Mirabelle Parchment Label 375 ML (#505242, SLO, $27.99)
• Feckin Spiced Irish Whiskey 750 ML (#003442, Regular, $19.99)
• Firefly Sweet Tea Bourbon 60pf 750 ML (#003428, Regular, $19.99)
• Grey Goose Imp. La Vanille Vodka 750 ML (#006589, Closeout, $17.99)
• Jeremiah Weed Cherry Mash Flavored Blended Bourbon Whiskey 750 ML (#003357, Regular, $15.99)
• Lauria Alpine Cream Liqueur 750 ML (#504972, SLO, $21.99)
• Luctor Jumbie Coconut Rum 750 ML (#504900, SLO, $15.99)
• Maker's Mark 46 Kentucky Bourbon Whisky 94pf 750 ML (#003368, Regular, $34.99)
• Margaritaville Calypso Coconut Tequila 750 ML (#504980, SLO, $16.69)
• Margaritaville Island Lime Tequila 750 ML (#504976, SLO, $16.69)
• Margaritaville Last Mango Tequila 750 ML (#504978, SLO, $18.99)
• Margaritaville Passion Fruit Tequila 750 ML (#504977, SLO, $16.69)
• Margaritaville Silver Rum 1 L (#504981, SLO, $25.99)
• Margaritaville Tropical Tangerine Tequila 750 ML (#504979, SLO, $16.69)
• Mathilde Cassis 375 ML (#504695, SLO, $19.99)
• Mathilde Cassis 750 ML (#504708, SLO, $24.99)
• Mathilde Framboise 375 ML (#504698, SLO, $19.99)
• Mathilde Peches 375 ML (#504694, SLO, $19.99)
• Mathilde Peches 750 ML (#504707, SLO, $24.99)
• Mathilde Poires 750 ML (#504709, SLO, $24.99)
• Mathilde Poires 375 ML (#504696, SLO, $19.99)
• Mathilde XO Orange 375 ML (#504697, SLO, $19.99)
• Mathilde XO Orange 750 ML (#504726, SLO, $24.99)
• Patron Silver Tequila 80pf 200 ML (#003448, Regular, $16.99)
• Pepe Lopez Silver 1 L (#504622, SLO, $13.49)
• Pinnacle Gin 200 ML (#003485, One Time, $1.99)
• Pitu Bazilian Rum Cachaca 80 Proof 750 ML (#030985, Luxury, $13.99)
• Prichards Cranberry Rum 750 ML (#504680, SLO, $27.39)
• Prichards Crystal Rum 750 ML (#504678, SLO, $27.39)
• Prichards Double Barreled Bourbon 750 ML (#504682, SLO, $71.89)
• Prichards Fine Aged Rum 750 ML (#504677, SLO, $38.59)
• Prichards Key Lime Rum 750 ML (#504681, SLO, $27.39)
• Prichards Private Stock Aged Rum 750 ML (#504676, SLO, $99.69)
• Prichards Single Malt Whiskey 750 ML (#504683, SLO, $55.19)
• Prichards Sweet Georgia Belle Peach Mango Rum 750 ML (#504679, SLO, $27.39)
• Prichards Sweet Lucy Liqueur 750 ML (#504685, SLO, $27.39)
• Prichards Tennessee Whiskey 750 ML (#504684, SLO, $44.09)
• Red Stag 4 Year 80pf 1.75 L (#003371, Regular, $36.99)
• Rokk Citrus Vodka 1 L (#504518, SLO, $12.99)
• Rokk Green Apple Vodka 1 L (#504517, SLO, $12.99)
• Rokk Orange Vodka 1 L (#504516, SLO, $12.99)
• Rokk Raspberry Vodka 1 L (#504519, SLO, $12.99)
• Rokk Vodka 1 L (#504520, SLO, $11.99)
• Ron Barcelo Anejo Smokey Vanilla 750 ML (#003397, Regular, $15.99)
• Ron Barcelo Blanco Rum 750 ML (#504656, SLO, $16.29)
• Ron Barcelo Dorado Gold Rum 750 ML (#504642, SLO, $16.29)
• Ron Barcelo Gran Anejo Rum 750 ML (#504643, SLO, $27.49)
• Ron Barcelo Imperial Rum 750 ML (#504644, SLO, $49.69)
• Seagram's Sweet Tea Vodka 70pf 750 ML (#003342, Regular, $11.99)
• Skinnygirl Margarita 25.4pf 750 ML (#003343, Regular, $13.99)
• Skyy Vodka 80 Pf 1 L (#003328, One Time, $14.99)
• Smirnoff Cocktails - Savannah Tea - PET 1.75 L (#003299, Regular, $19.99)
• Smirnoff Mango Vodka 70pf 750 ML (#003358, Regular, $14.99)
• Smirnoff Spiced Root Beer Vodka 750 ML (#003497, Regular, $16.99)
• Sobieski Vodka Karamel Flavored 70pf 1 L (#504898, SLO, $12.09)
• Sobieski Vodka Orange Flavored 70pf 1 L (#504897, SLO, $12.09)
• Southern Comfort & Lime 55pf 750 ML (#003337, Regular, $16.99)
• Springbank Scotch 18 Year 92 Proof 750 ML (#504928, SLO, $144.99)
• Stravinsky Vodka 750 ML (#003494, Regular, $9.99)
• Stravinsky Vodka 1 L (#505009, SLO, $10.29)
• Stravinsky Vodka 1.75 L (#003495, Regular, $18.99)
• Sweet Carolina Sweet Tea Vodka PET 70pf 750 ML (#003478, Regular, $15.99)
• Three Olives Purple Vodka 1 L (#504817, SLO, $24.99)
• Ursus Blue Raspberry Vodka 750 ML (#003498, Regular, $10.99)
• Ursus Green Apple Vodka 750 ML (#003500, Regular, $10.99)
• Ursus Punch Vodka 750 ML (#003499, Regular, $10.99)
• UV Coconut Vodka 60pf 750 ML (#003452, Regular, $11.99)
• Villa Marziai Limoncello 750 ML (#505103, SLO, $22.89)
• Vincent Van Gogh Blue Vodka 80pf 750 ML (#003391, Regular, $21.99)
• Vincent Van Gogh Dutch Chocolate Vodka 70pf 750 ML (#003392, Regular, $21.99)
• Wild Turkey American Honey 71pf 1.75 L (#003456, Regular, $41.99)
• Zacapa XO Rum 750 ML (#505101, SLO, $79.99)
• Zodiac Spirits Black Cherry Flavored Vodka 70 Proof 750 ML (#030983, Luxury, $27.99)

Phil Prichard started his distillery in Kelso, Tennessee in 1999 to produce...rum.  Not whiskey--his single malt and Tennessee whiskeys are new this year--but Colonial pot-still rum, like the American colonists made in the 17th and 18th centuries.  It's quite good, and very different than most modern rums.  The pot distillation and aggressive aging result in pungent, "chewy" flavors evocative of single malt whiskeys.  It's a fine substitute for the whiskey in a Manhattan, and mixing it into a traditional sling (2 oz spirit, 2 oz water, 1-2 tsp sugar) may be the most authentic pre-1800s "cocktail" one could make.

Prichard's used to sell their products to the PLCB directly, but Nationwide Wines & Spirits picked up their PA distribution in July.  Having a PA-based distributor is generally a good thing, as it means minimum order sizes come down when SLOs don't need to be shipped across the country one-by-one, but unfortunately Nationwide has stated they will be keeping the listed minimums at 6-12 units on the Prichard's products for the foreseeable future.  If you are interested in ordering these items and can't meet the minimum order size, contact Silvio at 610-202-9482 and he'll try to work something out for you.

Nationwide recently picked up two other rum brands, Diplomático and Barceló, both of whose flagship bottlings are excellent.  Unfortunately they're quite overpriced here--Barceló Imperial sells for less than half the price in other states.

Two other new rums on SLO are worth mentioning.  Banks 5 Island Rum is a blend of sugar cane spirits (aged rum and Batavia Arrack) that's filtered after blending, leaving a flavorful, clear spirit like El Dorado 3-year or Oronoco.  I liken the flavor to J. Wray Overproof although that doesn't do it justice; read Wayne Curtis's review for real tasting notes and some background on its production.

The other is Black Tot Rum, which is British Royal Navy rum.  Not a "Navy style" rum like Pusser's or Cruzan Blackstrap, but the actual rum produced for consumption on ships in Her Majesty's service.  This stuff was sitting in storage for decades after they discontinued the daily rum ration in 1970, until Specialty Drinks Ltd bottled it and Haus Alpenz imported it to the US.  I've tried this stuff before (Specialty Drinks isn't the first to bottle those old stocks of BRN rum) and it's amazing.  The aromas and flavors are overwhelming, with so many esters that you'd swear you could taste the 300-year-old wooden still that part of the blend is made in.  Is it worth $1100?  Surely--but only if you don't open it.  The sad truth is that most of this rum will be bought by collectors who will never taste it. [Edit 8/28 - apparently PA was allocated only three bottles of Black Tot, and they have all been spoken for.]

A number of new regular-listed products hit shelves in the last month, notably Berentzen Pear Liqueur, perhaps the best pear cordial I've ever tasted; Cruzan No. 9 Spiced Rum, Cruzan's second (and hopefully improved) attempt to enter the spiced rum market under their own label; Chambord Vodka, the latest see-what-sticks flavored vodka brand; Firefly Sweet Tea Bourbon, which is just like their sweet tea vodka but with Buffalo Trace Bourbon as the base, earning two thumbs up from me; Maker's Mark 46 Bourbon, the new Maker's bottling that's finished in French oak, giving it rather more character than their traditional product; and Ginger Snap Liquor, from the same guys who brought you Root Liquor.  Both the Root and Ginger Snap smell awesome, but unlike Root, Ginger Snap does not taste revolting.  I'm still not sure what I'd do with it, though.

Aqua Perfecta Framboise (Raspberry) Eau de Vie, Pitú Cachaça, Bakon Vodka, Zodiac Black Cherry Vodka, and Crème Yvette are, I believe, all online-exclusive items.  Have you tried out the new online store yet?

Bill Toland's coverage of recent PLCB goings-on included a bit at the end about how I and some of my fellow cocktail and spirits enthusiasts are helping improve the spirits selection at the PLCB, so I wanted to expand further on what we've been doing.

First, as the article states, we did provide an in-depth list of spirits we thought would make good additions to PLCB shelves, extracted mostly from our own experience and our sense of what the spirits and cocktail communities like to see. These ranged from notable whiskeys, rums and tequilas to niche cordials that are necessary to make many classic and craft cocktails. The addition of these products, we felt, would bring the PLCB's selection up to par with your average specialty liquor store in other states. Some of these products are already showing up in the online store, as I've noted in my past catalog update posts, and many more are working their way through the procurement pipeline.

I will stress here that we deserve less credit for getting the PLCB interested in specialty spirits than the article suggested. They were quite aware that their product selection was painfully "mainstream", and there were already moves occurring internally to get a specialty spirits program going. In fact they reached out to us, as well as other enthusiasts and experts, to ask for advice--it wasn't like we just sent them some recommendations out of the blue.

In the future, the PLCB is making plans to reconfigure their Wine Advisory Council to cover spirits as well, so these recommendations from the community will come through a more official body.

My feeling from the past few months of working with them is that the guys at the top now really are interested in addressing the needs of the enthusiast crowd, and have every intention of following through with their promised product additions.

If you're coming here for the first time via the Post-Gazette article, welcome!

This site provides an "alternative" guide to the Pennsylvania state spirits selection, which you can search or browse from the left sidebar. It's a bit nicer to use than the official catalog, with features like spelling correction (both of user input and the catalog data itself) and browsing by category or SLO vendor.

I also post catalog updates every week so you can track what's available, although last week's update will be a bit delayed since I'm in New Orleans for Tales of the Cocktail.

Enjoy!

PLCB spirits catalog changes for the week of July 5th:

Discontinued Products:

• Benriach 21yr Old Authenticas Peated Whisky 750 ML (#063903, SLO, $153.99)
• Benriach Single Malt Whiskey Dark Rum 15 Yr 750 ML (#060615, SLO, $92.99)
• Benriach Single Malt Whisky 750 ML (#063938, SLO, $55.99)
• Benriach Single Malt Whisky 16 Yr Old 750 ML (#063939, SLO, $92.99)
• Benriach Single Malt Whisky 20 Yr Old 750 ML (#063947, SLO, $141.99)
• Benriach Single Malt Whisky Madeira 15 Yr 750 ML (#062995, SLO, $92.99)
• Benriach Single Malt Whisky Pedro Ximinez 15 Yr 750 ML (#062054, SLO, $92.99)
• D Aristi Xtabentun Honey Liqueur 750 ML (#064914, SLO, $21.99)
• D Aristi Xtabentun Honey Liqueur Parchment Lbl 750 ML (#065031, SLO, $36.99)
• Dom Benedictine Liqueur 750 ML (#005501, Closeout, $19.99)
• English Harbor 5 Yr Old Rum 750 ML (#500568, SLO, $31.99)
• F Meyer Eau de Vie Framboise Parchment Label 375 ML (#071533, SLO, $29.99)
• F Meyer Eau de Vie Kirsch Parchment Label 375 ML (#055094, SLO, $28.99)
• F Meyer Eau de Vie Mirabelle Parchment Label 375 ML (#055115, SLO, $27.99)
• F Meyer Eau de Vie Poire William Parchment Label 375 ML (#060669, SLO, $29.99)
• Hiram Walker Blueberry Passion 1.000 L (#041543, SLO, $9.79)
• J W Dant Olde Str Brbn 1.750 L (#005194, Closeout, $12.49)
• Jacquin's Wild Cherry Flav. Brandy 750 ML (#004548, Closeout, $5.99)
• Jameson Irish Whiskey Gold Reserve 80 Proof 750 ML (#004951, Closeout, $40.19)
• Laphroaig Scotch 10 Years Old Cask Strength 111 Proof 750 ML (#009181, Closeout, $38.19)
• Leroux Blue Curacao 1.000 L (#503018, SLO, $19.29)
• Longrow 10yr Old Sm Scotch 1996 750 ML (#068735, SLO, $105.99)
• Pitu Cachaca 750 ML (#060817, SLO, $9.99)
• Skyy Vodka Orange 750 ML (#058758, SLO, $19.09)
• Wild Turkey Rye Russells Reserve 6 Year 750 ML (#502552, SLO, $36.99)

The Benriach, D'Aristi, English Harbor, F. Meyer and Longrow codes were pulled as they are Preiss Imports products that are moving from Winebow to Majestic.

Relisted:

• Kahlua Especial Imp. Coffee Liqueur 750 ML (#008107, Closeout, $13.49)

New Products:

• Agavero Tequila 750 ML (#504254, SLO, $38.59)
• Anchor Distilling Company Junipero Gin 98.6 Proof 750 ML (#010487, Luxury, $33.99)
• Aperol Aperitif 22pf 750 ML (#003411, Regular, $23.99)
• Belvedere Grapefruit Vodka 80pf 750 ML (#003395, Regular, $30.99)
• Connemara Peated Single Malt Irish Whiskey 80 Proof 750 ML (#010920, Luxury, $39.99)
• Espolon Blanco Tequila 80pf 750 ML (#003440, Regular, $22.99)
• Hangar One Chipotle Chili Vodka 750 ML (#504253, SLO, $38.59)
• Hangar One Citron Buddha's Hand Vodka 750 ML (#504248, SLO, $38.59)
• Hangar One Citron Ginger Vodka 750 ML (#504255, SLO, $38.59)
• Hangar One Kaffir Lime Vodka 750 ML (#504250, SLO, $38.59)
• Hangar One Mandarin Blossom Vodka 750 ML (#504251, SLO, $38.59)
• Hangar One Raspberry Fraser River Vodka 750 ML (#504249, SLO, $38.59)
• Hangar One Spiced Pear Vodka 750 ML (#504252, SLO, $38.59)
• Hangar One Straight Vodka 750 ML (#504246, SLO, $38.59)
• Herbsaint Original 100pf 750 ML (#003429, Regular, $34.99)
• Kellan Irish Whiskey 80pf 750 ML (#003374, Regular, $20.99)
• Landy Cognac VS 1.75 L (#504439, SLO, $58.99)
• Landy Cognac VS 375 ML (#504440, SLO, $14.99)
• Malibu Tropical Mojito Cocktail 1.75 L (#003307, Regular, $15.99)
• Mt Gay Rum 1703 Old Cask 750 ML (#504236, SLO, $118.19)
• Old Crow Reserve Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey 86pf 750 ML (#003370, Regular, $9.99)
• Passoa Liqueur 750 ML (#504273, SLO, $18.69)
• Southern Comfort Lemonade Vodka RTD 1.75 L (#504344, SLO, $18.09)
• The Dalmore 12 Yr Scotch Whisky 80pf 750 ML (#003432, Regular, $44.99)
• The Macallan 12 Yr Whiskey 86pf 1.75 L (#003426, Regular, $99.99)
• Three Olives Bubble Vodka 70pf 1.75 L (#003424, Regular, $29.99)
• Three Olives Purple Vodka 750 ML (#003425, Regular, $17.99)
• Tropical Jack Rum 42pf 750 ML (#003479, Regular, $10.99)
• Villa Massa Limoncello Cream 750 ML (#504446, SLO, $34.99)

More regular listed items from the most recent listing period are showing up in the catalog, including Aperol which was unavailable during its transition from online-only to in-store. Also we are graced with Three Olives Purple Vodka.

Purple? Since when is that a flavor?

Apparently it tastes like "crushed grape," and it is not to be confused with the existing Three Olives Grape Vodka. It took a bit of searching to find that, too. The Internet appears to be much more interested in the fact that Lil' Kim is promoting it than what it actually tastes like.

Anyway.

Also arriving this month is Herbsaint Original, which is an absinthe-like anise-flavored liqueur. It's a replica of the original Herbsaint liqueur that was introduced soon after the repeal of Prohibition as a substitute for absinthe, which was banned in the US at the time. By law, the ban only covered products containing wormwood, which Herbsaint did not. Regardless, the US government prohibited the use of the word "absinthe" on any liquor label--a restriction that was enforced until Kubler convinced the government to lift it back in 2002.

LeNell has more background information on Herbsaint Original, and for a proper treatment of the product's history, read Imbibe's article about Jay Hendrickson, who is the foremost Herbsaint expert in the world. (He's "very pleased" with how Herbsaint Original turned out.)

I find it to be a much more complex liqueur than its "modern formula" descendent, giving true absinthes a run for their money. At $35 it's a great introduction to the world of absinthe, as well as a solid spirit in its own right.

I hope everyone is enjoying their long weekend!

Last week the PLCB quietly released their new website and online store, now titled Fine Wine & Good Spirits. Take a look--once it's fully populated, it'll be worlds better than the old catalog system.

PLCB spirits catalog changes for the week of June 28th:

Discontinued Products:

• Absolut Los Angeles Flav Vodka 80 Proof 750 ML (#007886, One Time, $20.99)
• Agavero Tequila Liqueur 750 ML (#065013, SLO, $38.49)
• Captain Morgan Lime Bite 750 ML (#042444, SLO, $17.89)
• Citadelle Gin 750 ML (#061495, SLO, $29.79)
• DeKuyper Pucker Grape Schnapps 750 ML (#008356, Closeout, $6.49)
• Doirinha Imp. Almond Liqueur 750 ML (#006658, Limit Dist, $14.99)
• Finlandia Vodka Grapefruit Flavored 50 ML (#005211, One Time, $0.99)
• Hangar One Vodka Kaffir Lime 750 ML (#056756, SLO, $40.79)
• Hangar One Vodka Mandarin Blossom 750 ML (#056755, SLO, $40.79)
• Hangar One Vodka Raspberry 750 ML (#063725, SLO, $40.79)
• Maestro Dobel Tequila 750 ML (#055906, SLO, $78.49)
• Massenez Creme de Framboise 40 Proof 750 ML (#010858, Luxury, $26.99)
• Massenez Creme de Peche 40 Proof 750 ML (#010851, Luxury, $26.99)
• Southern Comfort 70 Proof 1.000 L (#007669, One Time, $15.99)

Citadelle Gin should be going into the online store in a few weeks, hopefully. The Massenez products are temporarily out of stock.

Relisted:

• Clear Creek Apple In the Bottle Brandy 80 Proof 750 ML (#010860, Luxury, $40.99)
• Don Q Mojito Rum 750 ML (#042370, SLO, $14.49)
• Liquore Strega 750 ML (#009612, Closeout, $18.69)
• Massenez Creme de Fraise de Bois 40 Proof 750 ML (#010857, Luxury, $26.99)

New Products:

• Armarguinha Almond Liqueur 750 ML (#006658, Limit Dist, $14.99)
• Black Maple Hill Small Batch Bourbon Kentucky 95 Proof 750 ML (#030994, Luxury, $39.99)
• Dos Mederos Rum 750 ML (#504148, SLO, $35.49)
• Dos Mederos Rum P.X. 750 ML (#504149, SLO, $46.99)
• Glendronach Scotch 15 Year 750 ML (#504173, SLO, $99.99)
• Glenmorangie Nectar D'Or 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch 92 Proof 750 ML (#010520, Luxury, $69.99)
• Jim Beam 8 Star Kentucky Whiskey 1.000 L (#504228, SLO, $12.39)
• Landy Cognac VS 750 ML (#504145, SLO, $28.99)
• Landy Cognac VSOP 750 ML (#504186, SLO, $42.99)
• Landy Cognac XO 750 ML (#504187, SLO, $139.99)
• Malibu Caribbean Cosmo Cocktail 1.750 L (#003303, Regular, $15.99)
• Malibu Rum Punch Cocktail 1.750 L (#003304, Regular, $15.99)
• Martin Miller's Westbourne Strength Gin England 90 Proof 750 ML (#030997, Luxury, $34.99)
• Morice Calvados Pays D'Auge 84 Proof 750 ML (#030995, Luxury, $42.99)
• Neisson Agricole Blanc Rum Martinique 100 Proof 1.000 L (#030986, Luxury, $30.99)
• New Mix Margarita RTD 4 - 12 Oz Cans 1.420 L (#003323, One Time, $6.99)
• New Mix Paloma RTD 4- 12 Oz Cans 1.420 L (#003322, One Time, $6.99)
• New Mix Spicy Mango Margarita RTD 4- 12 Oz Cans 1.420 L (#003324, One Time, $6.99)
• Seagram's Grape Twisted Gin 70pf 750 ML (#003422, Regular, $12.99)
• Siembra Azul Blanco Tequila 750 ML (#504172, SLO, $38.29)
• The Glenrothes Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky Vintage 1998 86 Proof 750 ML (#010665, Luxury, $49.99)
• Tub Gin 80pf 750 ML (#003470, Regular, $32.99)

The new Luxury products are all online-only items for now, and they're available to order through the new website. Just click through the product code in the list above, and hit the "order" button.

Landy, Cognac Ferrand's value-priced line, is listed again after moving from Southern to Majestic. Remember, Majestic now has a three-bottle minimum on all their SLO spirits. The new minimums may not be fully updated in the PLCB catalog yet, but they're in effect.

Tub Gin, like Aperol, went from being an online-only item to a regular item. That stuff should be showing up in stores any day now.

PLCB spirits catalog changes for the week of June 21st:

Discontinued Products:

• Aperol Aperitivo Liqueur 22 Proof 750 ML (#010903, Luxury, $23.99)
• Arberlour A'Bunadh Single Malt Scotch 122 Proof 750 ML (#007538, Closeout, $46.59)
• Ardbeg 10 Yr 750 ML (#068982, SLO, $49.89)
• Ch de Tariquet Bas Armagnac Folle Blance 750 ML (#055260, SLO, $64.99)
• Dartigalongue Bas Armagnac 20yr 1988 Vintage 750 ML (#063366, SLO, $122.99)
• Dartigalongue Bas Armagnac 30yr 1978 Vintage 750 ML (#063419, SLO, $168.99)
• Eagle Straight Bourbon Whiskey Rare 17 Years Old 90 Proof 750 ML (#006803, Limit Dist, $55.99)
• Gran Patron Burdeos Anejo Tequila 750 ML (#007974, One Time, $449.99)
• Imperia Vodka 50 ML (#007503, One Time, $1.49)
• Kahlua and Hazelnut Co Pack 40 Proof 1.500 L (#005487, One Time, $19.99)
• Liquore Strega 750 ML (#009612, Closeout, $18.69)
• Macallan 12 Yr Single Malt Scotch 375 ML (#008218, Closeout, $16.19)
• Mur Mcd Sgl Malt Cragganmo 12yr Syrah Cask Highla 750 ML (#063705, SLO, $103.99)
• Mur Mcd Sgl Malt Highland Park 17yr Sherry Port Ca 750 ML (#057475, SLO, $99.99)
• Mur Mcd Sgl Malt Mortlach 13yr Port Cask Highland 750 ML (#057859, SLO, $71.99)
• Mur Mcdav Caroni Rum Madiera Cask Trinidad 750 ML (#056969, SLO, $69.99)
• Mur Mcdav Rum 13yr Pot Dist Port Cask Jamaica 750 ML (#063026, SLO, $84.99)
• Murray McDavid Single Malt Highland Park Port Cask 750 ML (#071650, SLO, $122.99)
• Pierre Ferrand Cognac Ambre 750 ML (#068937, SLO, $53.19)
• Pisco Barsol Quebranta 750 ML (#503570, SLO, $21.19)
• Smirnoff Apple Twist Vodka 1.000 L (#004003, Closeout, $15.49)
• Taaka Gin 1.750 L (#007032, Closeout, $6.09)
• Tyrconnell Irish Whiskey 750 ML (#010836, Luxury, $39.99)

The online store ran out their stock of Aperol because Aperol is turning into a regular in-store item. No idea where the Tyrconnell went.

Relisted:

• Absolut Los Angeles Flav Vodka 80 Proof 750 ML (#007886, One Time, $20.99)
• Beefeater Wet Gin 1.000 L (#054687, SLO, $30.89)
• CM Nero D'Avola Grappa Sicily 80 Proof 750 ML (#010928, Luxury, $34.99)
• Southern Comfort 70 Proof 1.000 L (#007669, One Time, $15.99)
• Stroh Obstler Fruit Brandy 750 ML (#007351, Closeout, $12.09)

Southern found some more Beefeater Wet? Weird...it's been discontinued for years.

New Products:

• Calvados Noble Dame 750 ML (#503998, SLO, $34.99)
• Clynelish Mur Mcd Single Malt 12 Yr 1995 Sherry Madeira Cask Finish 750 ML (#503983, SLO, $84.99)
• Cragganmore Mur Mcd Single Malt 15 Yr 1993 Chateau Haut Brion Cask Finish 750 ML (#503984, SLO, $104.99)
• Dartigalongue Armagnac 20 Year 1990 Vintage 750 ML (#504000, SLO, $124.99)
• Dartigalongue Armagnac 30 Year 1979 Vintage 750 ML (#504001, SLO, $144.99)
• Del Maguey Single Village Mezcal Vida 84pf 750 ML (#504071, SLO, $38.99)
• Highland Park Mur Mcd Single Malt 14yr 1995 Chateau Lafitte Rothschild Cask Finish Isle of Orkney 750 ML (#504005, SLO, $109.99)
• Knob Creek Bourbon Bradford House Special Label 9yr 100pf 750 ML (#504135, SLO, $31.29)
• Laphroaig Mur Mcd Single Malt 10yr 1999 Chateau Lafitte Rothschild Cask Finish Islay South Shore 750 ML (#504006, SLO, $104.99)
• Laphroaig Mur Mcd Single Malt 11yr 1998 Chateau Petrus Cask Finish Islay South Shore 750 ML (#504007, SLO, $109.99)
• Mortlach Mur Mcd Single Malt 12yr 1997 Chateau D'Yquem Cask Finish Highland Speyside Dufftown 750 ML (#504008, SLO, $94.99)
• Stolichnaya Blueberi Vodka Blueberry Flavored 50 ML (#009846, One Time, $1.49)
• UV Vodka Green Tea Flavored 750 ML (#504134, SLO, $11.89)
• Wemyss Smooth Gentleman 8 Year Old Blended Malt Scotch Whisky 80 Proof 750 ML (#010576, Luxury, $33.49)
• Wemyss the Peat Chimney 8 Year Old Blended Scotch Malt Whisky 80 Proof 750 ML (#010588, Luxury, $33.49)

Jim Beam produced a custom Knob Creek label for the David Bradford House in Washington, PA, where the Whiskey Rebellion was organized in 1794. At the end of July they will be hosting their annual Whiskey Rebellion dinner, with Frederick Booker Noe III, ambassador for Jim Beam Brands, as their special guest. Of course, the evening will include a tasting of the Beam Small Batch bourbons. Hopefully, those attending will appreciate the irony of a Kentucky distiller sponsoring the Whiskey Rebellion dinner: the Kentucky bourbon industry owes its start to George Washington's decision to ruthlessly quash the Rebellion, driving the distillers of western Pennsylvania and Virginia to the frontierland of Kentucky, where they could make their whiskey without being bothered by the tax man.

Also showing up this week is the new Del Maguey Vida mezcal, which is Ron Cooper's attempt to make a mezcal better suited (read: cheaper) for use in cocktails. It's decent stuff, but it's competing with several other mezcals at that same price point including Scorpion and Joya Azul.

PLCB spirits catalog changes for the week of June 14th:

Discontinued Products:

• Bruichladdich 1st Growth Serie Cuvee A 16yr 750 ML (#042316, SLO, $110.99)
• Bruichladdich Islay Sm Scotch 14yr Links K Club 750 ML (#055786, SLO, $85.99)
• Bruichladdich Italian Collect 750 ML (#071074, SLO, $92.99)
• Bruichladdich Links 15yr Torrey Pines 750 ML (#057460, SLO, $79.99)
• Bruichladdich Links Valhalle 750 ML (#042437, SLO, $79.99)
• Jacquin's Sloe Gin 1.750 L (#005356, Closeout, $9.79)
• Jr Brillet Belle de Brillet Pear Liq 375 ML (#051336, SLO, $26.99)
• Nemiroff Vod Original 100 ML (#064196, SLO, $2.60)
• O P Anderson Aquavit 750 ML (#070868, SLO, $23.99)
• Patron Reposado Tequila 50 ML (#004857, One Time, $1.99)
• Patron Tequila Anejo 50 ML (#005654, One Time, $3.99)
• Plantation Jamaican Rum 750 ML (#041187, SLO, $41.99)
• Sans Rival Masticha Nv 750 ML (#055813, SLO, $13.99)
• Vincent Van Gogh Vodka Double Espresso 50 ML (#007423, One Time, $0.99)

OP Anderson was my go-to aquavit for mixing, although Aalborg will soon be available again (see below).

Moved to Closeout:

• Koenig Idaho Cherry Brandy 375 ML (#006820, Closeout, $24.99)

No real loss here. The Koenig eaux-de-vie leave a lot to be desired, to put it politely.

Relisted:

• Dom Benedictine Liqueur 750 ML (#005501, Closeout, $19.99)
• Don Eduardo Anejo 750 ML (#072169, SLO, $59.59)

New Products:

• Aalborg Akavit Denmark 80 Proof 750 ML (#010664, Luxury, $17.99)
• Aberlour a'bunadh Single Malt Scotch 120pf 750 ML (#503942, SLO, $87.99)
• Absolut Brooklyn Red Apple and Ginger Vodka 1.000 L (#003320, One Time, $23.99)
• Appleton 12 Year Old Rum Jamaica 86 Proof 750 ML (#030991, Luxury, $31.99)
• Canne Brulees Banane Rum 750 ML (#503923, SLO, $6.99)
• Cardenal Mendoza Gran Solera Brandy Jerez Spain 80 Proof 750 ML (#010571, Luxury, $63.99)
• Clique Vodka 1.000 L (#003232, Limit Dist, $15.99)
• Cruzan Spiced Rum Number 9 80 Proof 750 ML (#503837, SLO, $15.49)
• DeKuyper Thrilla Vanilla 30 Proof 1.000 L (#503840, SLO, $11.69)
• Delamain Pale and Dry XO Cognac 80 Proof 750 ML (#030990, Luxury, $79.99)
• El Dorado 15 Year Old Special Reserve Rum 80 Proof 750 ML (#030993, Luxury, $34.99)
• El Dorado 3 Year Old Aged White Rum 80 Proof 750 ML (#030992, Luxury, $15.99)
• Germain Robin Select Barrel Brandy XO California 80 Proof 750 ML (#010879, Luxury, $99.99)
• Gusano Rojo Mescal 80 Proof 750 ML (#503839, SLO, $24.59)
• Keo Brandy 750 ML (#503973, SLO, $27.89)
• Makers Mark 46 Bourbon 94 Proof 750 ML (#503838, SLO, $36.49)
• Nonino Amaro Bitter Aperitivo Italy 70 Proof 750 ML (#010426, Luxury, $44.99)
• Old Bardstown Bourbon 90pf 750 ML (#503851, SLO, $21.69)
• Scapa Single Malt Scotch Orkney Island Scotland 16 Year Old 80 Proof 750 ML (#010829, Luxury, $44.99)
• Stranahan's Colorado Whiskey 94 Proof 750 ML (#010930, Luxury, $49.49)
• Wemyss the Spice King 8 Year Old Blended Malt Scotch Whisky 80 Proof 750 ML (#010572, Luxury, $33.49)

Several products that are destined for store shelves got SLO codes, in case you want to get your hands on them sooner, including the new Maker's 46, which is finished with French Oak; and Cruzan's new spiced rum.

Clique Vodka is imported right here in Pittsburgh by the Premier Innovations Group. Nice of the PLCB to give a listing to "yet another vodka", eh?

Yet more stuff arrived for the online store: Aalborg, Appleton Extra, Cardenal Mendoza, Delamain Pale and Dry, El Dorado 3yr and 15yr, Germain Robin XO, Amaro Nonino, Scapa 16yr, Stranahan's and Wemyss. We'll be able to buy these soon, I promise!

You may have noticed a new promotional category in the official product catalog called "State Mandatory". The PLCB is using this designation to flag items which every single store is required to stock, unless they receive special permission from Harrisburg. The criteria for being on the list is fairly straightforward: these are the items with the strongest, most reliable sales statewide, in every store cluster. (Each store is assigned to one of five marketing clusters based on its sales characteristics and surrounding demographics. You can read more about this on the PLCB website.)

What kind of blogger would I be if I didn't paste the list into my blog? For the enlightenment of all, here below are the 100 most widely popular spirit products in Pennsylvania:

American Whiskey

• Banker's Club Whiskey 1.750 L
• Jack Daniel's Old No. 7 Black Label Whiskey 750 ML
• Jack Daniel's Old No. 7 Black Label Whiskey 1.750 L
• Seagram's 7 Crown American Whiskey 750 ML
• Seagram's 7 Crown American Whiskey 1.750 L

Bourbon

• Evan Williams Black Label 7yr Bourbon 750 ML
• Evan Williams Black Label 7yr Bourbon 1.750 L
• Heaven Hill Bourbon 1.750 L
• Jim Beam Bourbon 750 ML
• Jim Beam Bourbon 1.750 L
• Maker's Mark Bourbon 750 ML
• Old Crow Bourbon 1.750 L

Brandy

• Christian Brothers VS Brandy 750 ML
• Christian Brothers VS Brandy 1.750 L
• E&J VS Brandy 750 ML
• E&J VS Brandy 1.750 L

Brandy - Flavored

• Jacquin's Blackberry Brandy 750 ML

Canadian Whisky

• Black Velvet Canadian Whisky 1.750 L
• Canadian Club Canadian Whisky 1.750 L
• Canadian Gold Canadian Whisky 1.750 L
• Canadian Mist Canadian Whisky 1.750 L
• Crown Royal Canadian Whisky 750 ML
• Seagram's VO Canadian Whisky 750 ML
• Seagram's VO Canadian Whisky 1.750 L
• Windsor Canadian Whisky 750 ML
• Windsor Canadian Whisky 1.750 L

Cognac

• Hennessy VS Cognac 750 ML

Gin

• Banker's Club Gin 1.750 L
• Burnett's Gin 1.750 L
• Gordon's Gin 1.750 L
• Seagram's Gin 1.750 L
• Tanqueray Gin 750 ML
• Tanqueray Gin 1.750 L

Irish Whiskey

• Jameson Irish Whiskey 750 ML

Liqueurs

• Bailey's Irish Cream 750 ML
• DeKuyper Peachtree Schnapps 750 ML
• Disaronno Amaretto 750 ML
• Jägermeister Liqueur 750 ML
• Kahlúa Coffee Liqueur 750 ML
• Southern Comfort 750 ML
• Southern Comfort 1.750 L
• Southern Comfort 100 proof 750 ML

Ready-To-Drink Cocktails

• Montebello Long Island Iced Tea Cocktail 1.750 L

Rum

• Bacardi 151 Rum 750 ML
• Bacardi Superior Silver Rum 750 ML
• Bacardi Superior Silver Rum 750 ML (plastic bottle)
• Bacardi Superior Silver Rum 1.750 L
• Banker's Club White Rum 1.750 L
• Castillo Silver Rum 1.000 L
• Jacquin's Gold Rum 1.750 L
• Jacquin's White Rum 750 ML
• Jacquin's White Rum 1.750 L
• Ronrico Silver Rum 1.750 L

Rum - Flavored

• Calico Jack Spiced Rum 750 ML
• Calico Jack Spiced Rum 1.750 L
• Captain Morgan Spiced Rum 750 ML
• Captain Morgan Spiced Rum 750 ML (plastic bottle)
• Captain Morgan Spiced Rum 1.750 L
• Captain Morgan Spiced Rum 100 proof 750 ML
• Captain Morgan's Parrot Bay Coconut Rum 750 ML
• Malibu Coconut Rum 750 ML

Scotch

• Dewar's White Label Scotch 1.750 L
• Inver House Green Plaid Scotch 1.750 L

Tequila

• Jose Cuervo Especial Gold Tequila 750 ML
• Jose Cuervo Especial Gold Tequila 1.750 L
• Tortilla Gold Tequila 1.000 L

Vodka

• Absolut Vodka 750 ML
• Absolut Vodka 1.750 L
• Banker's Club Vodka 1.000 L
• Banker's Club Vodka 1.750 L
• Burnett's Vodka 1.750 L
• Crown Russe Vodka 1.750 L
• Gordon's Vodka 750 ML
• Gordon's Vodka 1.750 L
• Grey Goose Vodka 750 ML
• Grey Goose Vodka 1.750 L
• Jacquin's Vodka 1.000 L
• Jacquin's Vodka 1.750 L
• Kamchatka Vodka 1.750 L
• Laird's Vodka 750 ML
• Luksusowa Vodka 1.750 L
• Nikolai Vodka 1.000 L
• Nikolai Vodka 1.750 L
• Nikolai 100 proof Vodka 750 ML
• Nikolai 100 proof Vodka 1.750 L
• Pinnacle Vodka 1.750 L
• Skyy Vodka 750 ML
• Skyy Vodka 1.750 L
• Smirnoff Vodka 750 ML
• Smirnoff Vodka 750 ML (plastic bottle)
• Smirnoff Vodka 1.750 L
• Stolichnaya Vodka 750 ML
• Stolichnaya Vodka 1.750 L
• Svedka Vodka 750 ML
• Svedka Vodka 1.750 L
• Vladimir Vodka 1.000 L
• Vladimir Vodka 1.750 L
• White Tavern Vodka 1.750 L

Vodka - Flavored

• Smirnoff Raspberry Vodka 750 ML
• Three Olives Cherry Vodka 750 ML

Why are these 100 products so important? They account for roughly 60-70% of unit sales. That's right: one-twentieth of the spirit products in PLCB stores represents two-thirds of sales. Making sure those products are in every store is a sensible plan in my book.

There are a few dozen wines marked as State Mandatory as well. They can be found in the official catalog.