IN THIS ISSUE

Volume 56, No. 2 • Summer 2026

4 Editor’ s Note

SOCIAL MEDIA TIPS

Leveraging Digital Marketing Strategies in 2026 By Kyle Swartz

CATEGORY TRENDS

The Latest on Hemp-derived THC Drinks By Kyle Swartz

CHAIRMAN PROFILE

Chris Graham Takes the Helm at NABCA By Kyle Swartz

THE NABCA ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Essays Reflecting on the Past Year By The Committee

THE 2026 GROWTH BRANDS AWARDS

Recognizing the Fastest-Growing Alcohol Brands By The Staff

ALCOHOL TOURISM

How this Trend Benefits the Bottom Line By The Staff

5 Legal Column

Hey Liquor Store Owner! By Steve Schain

6 Vinsights

Carbonic Maceration

Explained By Marnie Old

7 Trip Report

NABCA Legal 2026 By Kyle Swartz

48 Cannabis Regulator

A deep dive into legal

cannabis By Kyle Swartz

65 On The Shelf

67 Wine Reviews

Wines under $ 30

StateWays ®( ISSN 0279-2133) is published four times per year( Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter) by The Beverage Information Group, a division of EPG Brand Acceleration, Editorial offices: 7760 France Ave S, Suite 810, Bloomington, MN 55435. USP Number 944-740, periodical rate postage paid at Minneapolis, MN and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to StateWays ®, PO Box 96, Port Jervis, NY 12771-0096. Subscriptions: Single copies $ 12.00. U. S. one year $ 32. All subscriptions payable in U. S. dollars. Payment must accompany order. To subscribe write: StateWays ®, Box 96, Port Jervis, NY 12771-0096; or call StateWays customer service number at 763-383-4492. Customer Service fax 763-383-4499. Customer Service email customerservice @ epgacceleration. com. Copyright 2023 by The Beverage Information Group, a division of EPG Brand Acceleration, 7760 France Ave S, Suite 810, Bloomington, MN 55435. Reproduction without the express written consent of the publisher is prohibited. Not responsible for return of unsolicited materials. The Beverage Information Group publishes StateWays ®, Beverage Dynamics, Cheers ®, Wine & Spirits Industry Marketing, Liquor Handbook, Wine Handbook, Beer Handbook, Industry Overview and Licensed Beverage Fact Book.

www. stateways. com Summer 2026 • StateWays 3