awn bids from such companies as Diageo, Bacardi and Fortune Brands.Absolut, which debuted in 1979, is the third-largest spirit brand in the world, behind Smirnoff vodka and Bacardi rum.To Dowd's Spirits Notebook latest entry.To Dowd's Wine Notebook latest entry.To Dowd's Brews Notebook latest entry.To Dowd's Non-Alcohol Drinks Notebook latest entry.To Dowd's Tasting Notes latest entry.Back to Dowd