A bottle of Macallan 1962 bearing the signatures of actors Daniel Craig, Javier Bardem, and Berenice Marlohe recently fetched $14,692 in an auction at Sotheby’s. The bottle played a small but important role in last year’s Bond blockbuster, Skyfall. The single malt, distilled the same year Bond made his debut in Dr. No, was donated by Macallan. Proceeds from the sale will go to charities supporting British security and intelligence services. [PR Newswire]

Good news for Johnnie Walker fans: Diageo has announced plans to make the Johnnie Walker Double Black edition a permanent fixture in their U.S. line. Originally launched as an exclusive to duty free shops, the demand and response for Double Black has been positive enough to make it a full-fledged member of an already stacked team. [PR Newswire]

This item’s for fans of Michigan beer: Beerpulse is reporting that beer baron Larry Bell has purchased a sizeable chunk of land in the upper peninsula of Michigan, specifically the Escanaba region near the Michigan-Wisconsin border. According to sources, he’s planning on developing a new brewery for the long-fabled Upper Hand label he’s been rumored of starting for some time. Spokespeople for Bell’s have declined to comment for BeerPulse, and we’ve asked for a comment as well. We’ll report back if we receive any word other than a continuing silence. [Beerpulse]

Another week, another report to show we’re drinking more: The Beverage Information Group released its Handbook Advance 2013, reporting that distilled spirits increased for the 15th consecutive year, growing slightly faster than in 2011. The 3.6% overall increase is the largest gain since 2006. This growth is largely attributed to new product lines and the modernization of spirit advertising through multimedia marketing channels. Wine consumption also increased, and its 1.9% gain positioned the U.S. to surpass France as the world’s largest wine market. We’re also drinking more beer, as the beer industry posted its first increase in volume since 2008. The small 0.5% growth rate has created excitement for suppliers and brands vying for consumer. Imports, super-premium beers, and microbreweries all had a hand in contributing to the success. [PR Newswire]

And finally today, burrito fans rejoice! Chipotle is giving its margarita a makeover. Previously the chain relied on a Sauza and a pre-made mix for the cocktail, but now customers can enjoy a blend of Patron Silver, triple sec, agave nectar, and lemon and lime juices, all made to order, starting at the end of this month. A nice move on the company’s part to keep the quality high and customers happy. [Huffington Post]

About Post Author