Heaven Hill Brands has been recognized with the 2025 Global Drinks Intel ESG Award for Social Achievement of the Year, honoring its Spirited Neighbor Initiative, a five-year, $800,000 community investment program supporting Louisville’s West End and the California Neighborhood surrounding its Bernheim Distillery.

Presented annually by Global Drinks Intel, the ESG Awards spotlight companies making meaningful progress across environmental, social, and governance priorities. The Social Achievement Award specifically celebrates initiatives that foster community wellbeing and social impact.

“This recognition reflects what has always defined Heaven Hill, our belief that success is shared through relationships,” said Kate Latts, Co-President of Heaven Hill Brands. “Through the Spirited Neighbor Initiative, we’re building stronger, more connected communities. It’s a powerful example of what it means to thrive together.”

Launched in 2023, Spirited Neighbor was built through listening, beginning with surveys and roundtables with local residents, community leaders, Heaven Hill employees and partners to identify where support could make the greatest impact. The program focuses on three key pillars:

• Mental Health: Expanding access to services and reducing stigma through local programs.
• Economic Development: Supporting financial literacy, workforce training, and pathways to opportunity.
• Education: Enriching academic and cultural programs that inspire local youth.

Each year, the Spirited Neighbor Microgrant Program awards up to $50,000 in grants to grassroots nonprofits driving measurable impact, from youth financial literacy and job readiness to school-based mental health counseling. The initiative is guided by a Grant Review Committee, ensuring transparency, equity, and direct connection to the local community.

“Spirited Neighbor represents Heaven Hill’s purpose in action – lifting the human spirit,” said Allan Latts, Co-President of Heaven Hill Brands. “We’re proud to stand alongside the organizations and neighbors creating lasting change in our city.”

For nearly 90 years, Heaven Hill has led as one of the largest independent, family-owned and led spirits companies in the U.S., guided by a mission to responsibly enhance the enjoyment of life and lift the human spirit. The Spirited Neighbor Initiative extends that mission into community investment, demonstrating that when businesses listen first and act with intention, entire neighborhoods can thrive together.