A hand-crafted corn-based vodka from Texas is being introduced in the UK by drinks company Hi-Spirits. Tito’s Handmade Vodka will be available in the on- and off-trade from this month through a new distribution deal with the UK specialist in spirits and liqueurs. The vodka, with an ABV of 40%, is made from 100% corn, …

Bartenders from across leading bar and restaurant group D&D will come together for a competition run with boutique vodka Konik’s Tail. Open to all D&D employees, it is being launched on January 14 at the group’s stylish South Place Hotel in the City of London with a masterclass led by the brand’s founder and creator …

Heineken has teamed up with one of the world’s top DJs for a new campaign to encourage young adults to drink responsibly when out clubbing. Dutch DJ Armin van Buuren (pictured) has created a new track called “Save My Night” which encourages and celebrates moderation during a night-out. It can be accessed via Spotify at …

Our weekly round-up of industry news, for December 23, 2013, to January 6, 2014 Strong festive trading at TCG Bar and pub operator TCG has reported strong trading over Christmas and New Year, with an average 7% uplift in turnover across its estate. The increase followed targeted capital expenditure and promotions linked to occasions such …

The range of craft beers available in the UK from Fordham Brewing Company in the US is expanding with the launch of Route 1 Session IPA. At 4.5% ABV, Route 1 Session IPA targets craft beer drinkers looking for an American IPA at a lower ABV. Brewed with Bravo, Cascade, Chinook and Crystal hops, and …

Brewer and bar operator BrewDog has closed its latest crowd-funding scheme early after raising its target of £4.25million a month before the deadline. It launched the Equity for Punks scheme in June, aiming to raise £4million by January 22, but increased the target by £250,000 in November because of demand. The money will be used …

Pubs and bars are being urged to report anyone trying to sell black-market BrewDog beer after a theft from an Essex retailer. Ales By Mail has reported that 16,000 bottles were taken from its Billericay warehouse on December 30, including BrewDog prototype beers Interstellar, Hobo Top and Brixton Porter and the newly launched Moshi Moshi. …

The BII, the licensed trade training body, is to introduce three new awards as part of its Licensee of the Year ceremony for 2014. They include Beer Sommelier of the Year, sponsored by the Beer Academy, which rewards qualified Beer Academy sommeliers for developing beer’s profile in the licensed hospitality sector. The other new categories …