From PeterGreenberg.com: Cocktails are not just “a drink” any more. But bartenders-turned-mixologists around the country have been taking notice and in the last couple of years, the number of craft cocktail locales has exponentially increased. More>>

From the New York Daily News: When it comes to cocktails, New Yorkers don’t mess around. This year’s James Beard nominees for Best Bar Program include swanky Manhattan watering holes PDT and Pegu Club — run by Jim Meehan and Audrey Sanders, respectively. More>>

Distilled Spirits Council applauds U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement, Early Times Mint Julep celebrates upcoming Kentucky Derby and Pernod Ricard reports a 5% increase in third-quarter sales. More>>

From The Wall Street Journal: Coca-Cola Co. is in talks to acquire Monster Beverage Corp., a move that could help the world's biggest soft drinks maker expand its presence in the growing energy-drinks market, people familiar with the matter said. More>>

This May, beer, wine and spirits retailers encourage everyone to celebrate Tavern Month by supporting America's local bars and taverns.More>>

Brand matters to customers who order vodka at bars, nightclubs, restaurants, and other outlets serving alcohol beverages, according to the soon-to-be-released Beverage Alcohol Report (BAR) by The NPD Group, a leading market research company. More>>

Nightclub & Bar presents the Bar Category Winners of the 2012 Nightclub & Bar Awards, the 2012 Ultimate Spirits Challenge judges are announced, the Manhattan Cocktail Classic gets ready for another decadent festival and Balvenie Single Malt Scotch Whisky looks for American craftsmen.More>>

Nightclub & Bar announces the winners of its 2012 Nightclub & Bar Awards program, Polish bartender awarded top honors at 14th annual international competition, the Bourbon Women Association launches in-person event series and Miami bartender takes first prize at the San Antonio Cocktail Conference....More>>

From My SA: Shakers, spirits and syrups were in full swing Saturday night during the Original Cocktail Competition at the inaugural San Antonio Cocktail Conference. More>>

Campo de Encanto is searching for the Distiller's Apprentice, bartenders show off their twist on the Manhattan cocktail at the Woodford Reserve Manhattan Experience, Bacardi celebrates its 150th birthday and Naples chooses a signature cocktail. More>>