60 Minutes CBS “Wood to Whiskey, The Tequila Heist, The Mezcaleros” December 28 2025
CBS brings a festive close to 2025 with a special holiday edition of 60 Minutes Presents titled “Cheers,” airing Sunday, December 28, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET/PT on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+. This curated encore broadcast offers an updated look at three captivating stories that dive deep into the global world of spirits and the surprising industries behind them.
Discovering the Magic of Oak in “Wood to Whiskey”
Correspondent Bill Whitaker explores how the humble oak barrel is anything but ordinary in a segment that celebrates both tradition and innovation. With roots stretching back two millennia, the oak barrel isn’t just a storage tool—it’s a critical ingredient in the bourbon-making process. Viewers will get rare access inside the world’s largest wooden barrel manufacturer and see firsthand how fire, craftsmanship, and chemistry come together to shape the flavor and character of America’s favorite whiskey. Producer Rome Hartman delivers an immersive visual journey that honors this enduring symbol of quality.
When Tequila Vanishes: The Untold Story of “The Tequila Heist”
Sharyn Alfonsi investigates one of the most unusual modern-day crimes in the growing wave of digital cargo theft. In this eye-opening report, she uncovers how organized international crime groups are turning to high-tech methods to steal goods in transit—leading to the mysterious disappearance of 24,000 bottles of Guy Fieri’s tequila. The story pulls back the curtain on the vulnerabilities of the global supply chain and the clever tactics used to infiltrate it. With reporting backed by producer Lucy Hatcher, the segment highlights the evolving face of theft in the digital age.
“The Mezcaleros” Capture the Spirit of Oaxaca
Cecilia Vega takes viewers deep into the rugged beauty of Oaxaca, Mexico, where mezcal—the smoky cousin of tequila—is experiencing an international renaissance. Meeting the local mezcaleros, she uncovers how this small-scale, artisanal tradition is being transformed by global demand. The story showcases both the cultural roots of mezcal and the pressures of modern commercialization. With producers Nathalie Sommer and Kaylee Tully, Vega’s segment provides a thoughtful look at the people and passion fueling mezcal’s rise in bars and restaurants around the world.
A Toast to Craft, Culture, and Curiosity
While these stories have aired previously, this special holiday edition offers timely updates and a thematic lens perfect for the season. Whether you’re a connoisseur of fine spirits or simply intrigued by the craftsmanship behind them, “60 Minutes Presents: Cheers” is a spirited hour of television that blends journalism with celebration. And for those looking ahead—60 Minutes will return with all-new stories on Sunday, January 4, 2026.
So grab a glass and settle in for a global journey of taste, tradition, and intrigue this Sunday night.
