Author: Heavenhill

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Heaven Hill Closes Deep Eddy Vodka Acquisition

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CONTACT: Josh Hafer
Communications Manager
Heaven Hill Brands
(502) 413-0219
jhafer@heavenhill.com

BARDSTOWN, KY./Austin, TX. – Today, Heaven Hill Brands, the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated distilled spirits supplier completed the acquisition of Deep Eddy Vodka, the #1 fastest-growing spirits brand in the US, according to IRI, and its distillery from Eliza Spring, LLC, for an undisclosed amount.

Deep Eddy Vodka is one of the fastest-growing brands in the distilled spirits industry. Since its introduction in 2010 with the original Deep Eddy Sweet Tea Vodka and Deep Eddy Straight Vodka in 2011, the business has grown to over 500,000 cases today. Deep Eddy Vodka is propelled by its Austin-bred roots, use of all-natural fruit juices, production process and iconic brand imagery. The brand achieved extraordinary growth beginning in 2013 with the launch of the Deep Eddy Ruby Red Vodka that resulted in over 300% sales growth. In early 2015, Deep Eddy Lemon Vodka was launched and has further led to unprecedented growth for the business.

“Today starts us on the course to becoming the #1 Super Premium American Vodka in the US,” said Max L. Shapira, President of Heaven Hill Brands. “Our family is proud to carry on the culture, energy and excitement of Deep Eddy Vodka. Austin will continue to be core to the brand as the home base for Eric Dopkins and his entire team and the foundation of Deep Eddy Vodka’s culture and heritage.”

Perella Weinberg Partners LLP acted as financial advisor to Heaven Hill Brands and UBS Securities LLC acted as exclusive financial advisor to DE Spirits, LLC and Eliza Spring, LLC with respect to the transaction. Wyatt Tarrant & Combs LLP served as legal counsel to Heaven Hill Brands with respect to the transaction and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP and Kastner Huggins Reddien Gravelle LLP served as legal counsel to DE Spirits, LLC and Eliza Spring, LLC. Deep Eddy Vodka (70-80 proof), a premium spirits company based in Austin, Texas, was founded in 2010 by two local entrepreneurs with a background in beverage and spirits, Clayton Christopher (creator of Sweet Leaf Tea) and Chad Auler (creator of Savvy Vodka). All Deep Eddy Vodka products are distilled in small batches at its state-of-the-art Texas distillery. The company’s line of products include: Deep Eddy Straight Vodka, Deep Eddy Sweet Tea Vodka, Deep Eddy Ruby Red, Deep Eddy Cranberry and Deep Eddy Lemon. More information on the company can be found at www.deepeddyvodka.com or www.facebook.com/deepeddyvodka.

Founded in 1935, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Brands (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes Evan Williams Bourbon; Larceny, Elijah Craig and Henry McKenna Bourbons, Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Deep Eddy Vodkas; Admiral Nelson’s and Blackheart Rums; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; The Christian Brothers Brandies; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur; Lunazul Tequila; Cinerator Hot Cinnamon Flavored Whiskey and Rittenhouse Rye Whisky.
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Heaven Hill Adds Deep Eddy Vodka to Portfolio of Leading Brands

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BARDSTOWN, KY./Austin, TX. – Heaven Hill Brands, the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated distilled spirits supplier has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Deep Eddy Vodka, the #1 fastest-growing spirits brand in the US, according to IRI, and its distillery from Eliza Spring, LLC, for an undisclosed amount.

Deep Eddy Vodka is one of the fastest-growing brands in the distilled spirits industry. Since its introduction in 2010 with the original Deep Eddy Sweet Tea Vodka and Deep Eddy Straight Vodka in 2011, the business has grown to over 500,000 cases today. Deep Eddy Vodka is propelled by its Austin-bred roots, use of all-natural fruit juices, production process and iconic brand imagery. The brand achieved extraordinary growth beginning in 2013 with the launch of the Deep Eddy Ruby Red Vodka that resulted in over 300% sales growth. In early 2015, Deep Eddy Lemon Vodka was launched and has further led to unprecedented growth for the business.

“This is a milestone day for Heaven Hill Brands as we add Deep Eddy Vodka and their entire team to our dynamic and innovative family,” said Max L. Shapira, President of Heaven Hill Brands. “Deep Eddy Vodka is a star on the rise in the spirits industry and is redefining the premium Vodka market with a quality product and iconic marketing programs. The brand is a perfect fit for our established portfolio of rapidly-growing products.”

Much of Deep Eddy Vodkas’ growth is the result of innovative marketing and sales programs centered on the Deep Eddy Vodkas’ iconic, retro-style rooted in the rich history of Austin, TX. Deep Eddy Vodka will continue to be produced in the Austin area and the distillery’s Visitor Center is open to the public Friday through Sunday.

“This is an incredible day for Deep Eddy Vodka,” said Eric Dopkins, who will continue as President of Deep Eddy Vodka. “The Deep Eddy team and their distributor partners will remain in place and continue to build on the exceptional momentum of the brand alongside Heaven Hill.”

“Two quintessentially independent, American companies are now together and poised for a tremendous future,” said Chad Auler and Clayton Christopher, co-founders of Deep Eddy Vodka. “For 80 years, Heaven Hill Brands has embodied independence with its heart and soul grounded in a unique and historic set of American Whiskeys. They are stewards of one of the strongest, most diversified product portfolios in the industry and understand the essence of Deep Eddy Vodka. With that foundation, Heaven Hill will deliver Deep Eddy’s mission to be the #1 Super Premium American Vodka in the US.”

Perella Weinberg Partners LLP acted as financial advisor to Heaven Hill Brands and UBS Securities LLC acted as exclusive financial advisor to DE Spirits, LLC and Eliza Spring, LLC with respect to the transaction. Wyatt Tarrant & Combs LLP served as legal counsel to Heaven Hill Brands with respect to the transaction and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP and Kastner Huggins Reddien Gravelle LLP served as legal counsel to DE Spirits, LLC and Eliza Spring, LLC.

Deep Eddy Vodka (70-80 proof), a premium spirits company based in Austin, Texas, was founded in 2010 by two local entrepreneurs with a background in beverage and spirits, Clayton Christopher (creator of Sweet Leaf Tea) and Chad Auler (creator of Savvy Vodka). As a recipient of the Impact Hot Brand Award for two straight years and Beverage Information Group Growth Brand Award each of the past three years, Deep Eddy Vodka is recognized for its unique production process and incorporation of real, natural ingredients in its flavors. All Deep Eddy Vodka products are distilled in small batches at its state-of-the-art Texas distillery.  The company’s line of products include: Deep Eddy Straight Vodka, Deep Eddy Sweet Tea Vodka, Deep Eddy Ruby Red, Deep Eddy Cranberry and Deep Eddy Lemon. Deep Eddy Vodka is available in stores in all 50 states. More information on the company can be found at www.deepeddyvodka.com or www.facebook.com/deepeddyvodka.

Founded in 1935, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Brands (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes Evan Williams Bourbon; Larceny, Elijah Craig and Henry McKenna Bourbons, Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Admiral Nelson’s and Blackheart Rums; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; The Christian Brothers Brandies; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur; Lunazul Tequila; Cinerator Hot Cinnamon Flavored Whiskey and Rittenhouse Rye Whisky.
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CONTACT:
Josh Hafer
Communications Manager
Heaven Hill Brands
(502) 413-0219
jhafer@heavenhill.com 

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RELEASE: Special, Limited-Release Blackheart Playboy Edition Coming Fall 2015

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Special, Limited-Release Blackheart Playboy Edition Coming Fall 2015 

Bardstown, KY— This Fall, Blackheart Premium Spiced Rum, a bold, smooth, 93-proof spiced rum is teaming up with Playboy Enterprises Inc. to offer a special, limited-edition bottling that features unique packaging showcasing the sultry Blackheart character reimagined as a Playboy Playmate in bunny Costume.

Blackheart Playboy Edition, offered through fall 2015 only, capitalizes on the dynamic partnership between the iconic Playboy and ever-growing Blackheart brands. With its “Seduction in a Bottle” tagline and label art featuring a sexy, pirate pin-up girl, Blackheart embodies a hip, bold lifestyle that fuses perfectly with the playful and provocative appeal of Playboy. The new Blackheart Playboy Edition will be a bold, 93-proof spiced rum that is “smooth to the tail end.”

Blackheart Playboy Edition will be supported with advertising and promotion through Playboy’s leading platforms, including a full-page insertion in Playboy magazine, digital appearances on Playboy.com and Playboy social media, and key event activations such as a Halloween party at Playboy’s newest hotspot, Bar Fifty Three on the infamous Sunset Strip in West Hollywood, CA. Moreover, a series of Playboy.com videos will be shot featuring 2015 Playmate of the Year Dani Mathers, to be released throughout the month of October. The limited release bottle will also be supported in stores with a Blackheart Playboy Bunny display, bottle neck hanger and other materials.

Blackheart Rum has been an advertising partner with Playboy’s various platforms, including the magazine and Playboy.com for more than two years.

“This is a unique twist on a great product that will play well with the core fans of both Playboy and Blackheart,” said Hannah Venhoff, Blackheart Brand Manager. “We are excited by the opportunity to expand our partnership with Playboy and enhance our marketing efforts in a way that benefits both brands.”

“Playboy is excited to join forces with Blackheart, a best-in-class spirits partner, for the limited release of Blackheart Playboy Edition. The specially curated rum epitomizes an edgy, bold lifestyle which is aligned with the Playboy brand heritage, and is designed to appeal to both current and new generations of rum drinkers,” said Matt Nordby, Playboy Enterprises’ President of Global Licensing.

Blackheart is a growing player in the Spiced Rum category with double-digit sales growth since it was released by Heaven Hill Brands in 2010. Available nationally, Blackheart is available in 1.75L, 1L, 750ml, 375ml and 50ml sizes. In 2014, for the second straight year, Blackheart was named a “Rising Star” by The Beverage Information Group. Rum is the second-largest spirits category and is projected to increase to 28 million cases in sales this year, according to The Beverage Information Group.

Blackheart brand support consists of a comprehensive marketing plan, including on? and off?premise point?of?sale materials, website and social media activities, print and digital advertising and a national sports sponsorship.

About Heaven Hill Brands: Founded in 1935, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Brands (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes Evan Williams Bourbon; Larceny, Elijah Craig and Henry McKenna Bourbons, Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Admiral Nelson’s and Blackheart Rums; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; The Christian Brothers Brandies; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur; Lunazul Tequila; Cinerator Hot Cinnamon Flavored Whiskey and Rittenhouse Rye Whisky.

About Playboy Enterprises, Inc.: Playboy is one of the most recognized and popular consumer brands in the world. Playboy Enterprises, Inc. is a media and lifestyle company that markets the brand through a wide range of media properties and licensing initiatives. The company publishes Playboy magazine in the United States and licenses foreign editions of Playboy around the world; operates Playboy.com, a leading men’s lifestyle and entertainment site; and creates content for distribution via television networks, websites, mobile platforms and radio. Through licensing agreements, the Playboy brand appears on a wide range of consumer products in more than 180 countries, as well as retail stores and entertainment venues. For more information about Playboy Enterprises, please visit www.PlayboyEnterprises.com.
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CONTACT:
For Heaven Hill Brands –
Josh Hafer | (502) 413-0219 | jhafer@heavenhill.com | www.heavenhill.com

For Playboy Enterprises –
John Vlautin | jvlautin@playboy.com | www.PlayboyEnterprises.com
Nancy Zakhary | nancy@braincomm.com 

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Heaven Hill Brands Celebrates its 80th Anniversary by Giving Back

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Heaven Hill Brands Celebrates its 80th Anniversary by Giving Back

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Heaven Hill Brands, the country’s largest family-owned and -operated distilled spirits company, is celebrating 80 years of success this year by giving back. To thank the community for being a valued partner over the last eight decades, Heaven Hill is planning a philanthropic effort, with the help of its employees.

Starting July 17, Heaven Hill will draw names of employees each Friday, for a total of 80 names, all leading up to an Employee Appreciation event on Sept. 12 at Heaven Hill corporate headquarters in Bardstown, Ky. Heaven Hill will donate $80 to a charity of those people’s choosing. In total, 80 employees will give $80 each to 80 charitable causes.

“We wanted to thank our employees for their hard work, as well as thank the community for 80 years of support,” said Max Shapira, Heaven Hill Brands President.

Additionally, the company is asking each employee to bring a canned good or other food item to the Employee Appreciation event. The collected items will be weighed with the goal of reaching 380 pounds of food that will be donated to a local food pantry serving those in need.

“This is another way for all of us here to celebrate all our achievements so far by giving back,” Shapira said. “I couldn’t be more proud of the company and how far we’ve come since my father and his brothers started it. Eighty years of success is just the beginning.”

The company kicked off its yearlong 80th anniversary celebration by unveiling a new corporate name, Heaven Hill Brands, and a new logo that captures the company’s evolution from a leader in American Whiskey production – a position it continues to hold today – to the nation’s sixth-largest distilled spirits supplier.

Through internal product development and strategic brand acquisitions, Heaven Hill has built on its foundation of American Whiskeys to become a broadly diversified supplier of whiskeys, liqueurs, vodkas, rums and other spirits.

Heaven Hill’s portfolio includes the world’s second-largest selling Bourbon, Evan Williams Bourbon, and category leaders Christian Brothers Brandy, Burnett’s Vodka and Admiral Nelson’s Rum. The portfolio also includes a growing line of leading imported brands from around the world, such as Hpnotiq and Domaine de Canton liqueurs. Likewise, the company has a stable of innovative brands including PAMA Liqueur, Blackheart Spiced Rum and Evan Williams Flavors.

About Heaven Hill Brands: Founded in 1935, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Brands (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes Evan Williams Bourbon; Larceny, Elijah Craig and Henry McKenna Bourbons, Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Admiral Nelson’s and Blackheart Rums; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; The Christian Brothers Brandies; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur; Lunazul Tequila; Cinerator Hot Cinnamon Flavored Whiskey and Rittenhouse Rye Whisky.

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CONTACT:
Josh Hafer
Communications Manager
Heaven Hill Brands
(502) 413-0219
jhafer@heavenhill.com 

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The Search for Heaven Hill Brands, Liquor.com 2016 “Bartender of the Year” Begins NOW!

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The Search for Heaven Hill Brands, Liquor.com 2016 “Bartender of the Year” Begins NOW!

Winner will receive $15,000 at finals in Puerto Rico in June 2016

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Heaven Hill Brands and Liquor.com are searching for the 2016 Bartender of the Year. The event includes online submissions, regional semifinals and the crowning of the 2016 Bartender of the Year in June 2016 at the St. Regis Bahia Beach in Puerto Rico. Bartenders will be challenged to demonstrate a variety of cocktail skills including the use of Domaine de Canton French Ginger Liqueur, Elijah Craig Small Batch, PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur and Rittenhouse Rye Whisky.

The 2016 Bartender of the Year contest will demand every aspect of bartender skills. The goal is to identify the bartender who best embodies the range of qualities to which bartenders aspire. From service to history and skills to quality preparation, the 2016 Bartender of the Year will be a celebrated example of what is means to be behind the stick. 

“Heaven Hill Brands’ portfolio of spirits is especially suited to identify the Bartender of the Year for 2016,” said Kate S. Latts, Vice President, Marketing for Heaven Hill Brands. “With uncompromising quality among our featured Liqueurs and Whiskeys, we feel we can identify the strongest talent in the U.S. Ultimately, we will hope to elevate the craft of the bartender and support the traditions and qualities that make it truly unique.”

Over eight months, Heaven Hill Brands and Liquor.com will identify candidates for Bartender of the Year first by online submissions received from August 1 to October 1. Submissions will be evaluated throughout October and November by Heaven Hill National Brand Educator Lynn House and two leading national judges. The regional finals for the competition will be hosted in Chicago, New Orleans, New York and San Francisco throughout February and March 2016. Regional finalists will vie for Bartender of the Year and $15,000 at the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort in Puerto Rico in June 2016. 

Submissions for the contest will open at liquor.com/bartender-of-the-year/ on August 1. Pre-registration for the contest will be available by submitting email addresses at the website beginning July 15.

Judges for each round of the competition will be announced throughout the duration of the contest. 

Grounded in the original Bartender of the Year hosted by Domaine de Canton starting in 2009, Heaven Hill Brands resurrected the competition due to strong demand from bartenders worldwide. Past winners of the competition include John Lermayer, Sean Kenyon and Dennis Gobis.

About: Founded in 1935, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Brands (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes Evan Williams Bourbon; Larceny, Elijah Craig and Henry McKenna Bourbons, Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Admiral Nelson’s and Blackheart Rums; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; The Christian Brothers Brandies; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur; Lunazul Tequila; Cinerator Hot Cinnamon Flavored Whiskey and Rittenhouse Rye Whisky.

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CONTACT: 

Josh Hafer
Communications Manager
Heaven Hill Brands
(502) 413-0219
jhafer@heavenhill.com 

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Heaven Hill Brands Launches Super-Premium Pikesville Rye

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Heaven Hill Brands Launches Super-Premium Pikesville Rye

6-Year-Old, 110-Proof Spirit Salutes Traditional American Straight Rye Whiskey

Bardstown, Ky., July 8, 2015—Heaven Hill Brands, now in its third generation of family ownership and celebrating 80 years of crafting whiskey and curating all-American spirits brands, today announces the launch of a super-premium spirit, Pikesville Straight Rye Whiskey. At 6 years old and 110 proof, this new expression of Pikesville Rye is produced at Heaven Hill’s historic Bernheim Distillery in Louisville and aged in its premier rickhouses in Bardstown, Ky. With a suggested retail price of $49.99 for a 750ml bottle, it will roll out in New York, Chicago, San Francisco and Los Angeles in Summer 2015, with allocated national distribution to follow in the Fall.

During previews, Pikesville Rye earned spirits industry acclaim, including a Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and 95 Points at F. Paul Pacult’s Ultimate Spirits Challenge. Distilled from at least 51 percent rye, with corn and malted barley as the “small” grains, Pikeville Rye has an appealing pale copper color, reflecting its extra aging. Its aroma evokes earthy cocoa notes with oaky smoke underneath. On the palate, Pikesville Rye is dry and spicy, with hints of honeyed rye and cloves. Soft vanilla and baking spices round out the finish. 

“Heaven Hill has a tradition of keeping storied brands alive,” says Max L. Shapira, President, Heaven Hill Brands, and second-generation family member. “We purchased the Pikesville brand as the Maryland Rye industry was disappearing and have distilled it for decades for the local market. As consumers have fallen in love with Straight Bourbon Whiskey, they have naturally expanded their passion to Rye. We wanted to update this authentic artifact of Americana for contemporary palates and offer this super-premium expression nationally.”

This marks the first major new product launch since Denny Potter was named Heaven Hill Brand’s Co-Master Distiller. Potter carefully selected each extra-aged barrel and determined the spirit’s ideal proof level. 

“Pikesville Rye is the text book example of the traditional three-grain American Straight Rye Whiskey that laid the foundation for Rye’s current renaissance,” says Potter. “To set it apart from other Ryes, I selected barrels at a minimum of 6 years old from high storage and bottled it at a proof that allows the most character from the barrel to come through without overpowering the spicy grain notes. It will appeal to American Whiskey connoisseurs seeking a robust and flavorful sip and to today’s bartending community, as it mixes well in classic cocktails.”

With its Maryland roots dating back to 1895, Pikesville Rye returned after Prohibition, surviving ownership changes and the decline of the Maryland Rye whiskey industry. With Maryland production coming to a close in the 1980s, Pikesville Rye was kept alive by Heaven Hill Brands, which has produced the spirit in Kentucky ever since. It is a prominent brand in Maryland and is served throughout the Baltimore metropolitan area. The traditional 80-proof, 3-year-old Pikesville Rye will remain in production and will continue to be distributed in Maryland. 

About Pikesville Straight Rye Whiskey: Pikesville Straight Rye Whiskey is a 6-year-old, 110-proof super-premium spirit that salutes a historic Maryland mark dating back to 1895. It is distilled by Heaven Hill Brands at the company’s historic Bernheim Distillery in Louisville and aged in its premier rickhouses in Bardstown, Ky. Co-Master Distiller Denny Potter carefully selected each extra-aged barrel and determined the spirit’s ideal proof level. With its mashbill of at least 51 percent rye, with corn and malted barley as the “small” grains, Pikesville Rye embraces the tradition of American Straight Rye Whiskey that set the stage for Rye’s current renaissance. For more information, please visit www.pikesvillerye.com.

About Heaven Hill Brands: Founded in 1935, Bardstown, Ky.-based Heaven Hill Brands is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes Evan Williams Bourbon; Larceny, Elijah Craig and Henry McKenna Bourbons; Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Admiral Nelson’s and Blackheart Rums; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; The Christian Brothers Brandies; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur; Lunazul Tequila; Cinerator Hot Cinnamon Flavored Whiskey and Rittenhouse Rye Whiskey. For more information, please visit www.heavenhill.com.

CONTACT:
Larry Kass
Director of Trade Relations
Heaven Hill Brands
(502) 413-0220
lkass@heavenhill.com 

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Governor Beshear Names Heaven Hill Brands Vice President of Human Resources Debbie Morris to New Workforce Innovation Board

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Governor Beshear Names Heaven Hill Brands Vice President of Human Resources Debbie Morris to New Workforce Innovation Board

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Gov. Steve Beshear recently appointed Debbie Morris, Vice President of Human Resources at Heaven Hill Brands, to the Kentucky Workforce Innovation Board (KWIB). The group’s overarching goal will be to foster a modern system of workforce development activities that will be flexible, coherent and responsive to the needs of business while designed to ensure that Kentucky builds a workforce able to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

Morris has served in Human Resources with Heaven Hill Brands for 13 years. In her role she is responsible for the company’s personnel, labor relations, training, safety and process improvement efforts. Under her leadership, Heaven Hill has instituted numerous strategic Human Resources initiatives.

“Debbie is a strong leader with a great understanding of the workforce dynamics that affect our business, as well as, industry throughout Central Kentucky,” said Allan M. Latts, COO, Heaven Hill Brands. “I know the Commonwealth will benefit from her experience and expertise.”

Attached to the Education and Workforce Development Cabinet, the new KWIB will ensure the state’s compliance with the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014 (WIOA), the first legislative reform of the public workforce system in more than 15 years. WIOA reauthorizes the Workforce Investment Act of 1998.

“The quality of our workforce is the key factor that will dictate Kentucky’s ability to attract the jobs of the future and ensure Kentucky’s prosperity,” said Gov. Beshear. “That’s why I’m directing the new board to initiate and oversee critical strategies that will link workforce policies, education and training programs, and funding with the economic development needs of the Commonwealth and its regions in mind.”

An alumnae of Western Kentucky University who also studied at Bellarmine University, Morris is certified as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) from the Human Resources Certification Institute.

Founded in 1935, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Brands (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes Evan Williams Bourbon; Larceny, Elijah Craig and Henry McKenna Bourbons, Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Admiral Nelson’s and Blackheart Rums; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; The Christian Brothers Brandies; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur; Lunazul Tequila; Cinerator Hot Cinnamon Flavored Whiskey and Rittenhouse Rye Whisky.

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CONTACT: 

Josh Hafer
Communications Manager
Heaven Hill Brands
(502) 413-0219
jhafer@heavenhill.com 

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Lunazul 100% Agave Tequila Unveils New Premium Packaging, Marketing Campaign

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Lunazul 100% Agave Tequila Unveils New Premium Packaging, Marketing Campaign

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Lunazul 100% Agave Tequila has a new, premium package reflective of the brand’s quality and heritage. The hot-selling Lunazul now features a refreshed bottle with a cleaner look, cork closure and blown-in elements. With the rollout of the package, Lunazul will debut the “One Sip and You Know” marketing campaign which focuses on the simplicity of the Tequila’s great taste.

The estate grown, distilled and bottled Lunazul is among the finest 100% Agave Tequilas in the category. At the 2015 Ultimate Beverage Challenge, three of the four Lunazul varieties (Blanco, Reposado and Anejo) earned the prestigious “Finalist” designation in their respective age groups (all earning 92 points or higher). The packaging is designed to highlight the award-winning Tequila inside and simplify the overall look.

In addition to the Lunazul bottle, a cleaner label design presents the Tequila’s hallmark black label trimmed with bright, crisp colors accented by a blow-in of the Lunazul wolf and a premium cork closure.

The Lunazul package redesign is augmented by a new marketing campaign which underscores the simplicity of the decision to drink Lunazul Tequila, “One Sip and You Know.” Cutting through the clutter of the Tequila category and the myriad complicated messages, Lunazul is a standout for its unique heritage, production process and commitment to quality. The straightforward campaign, however, champions the award-winning flavor of Lunazul suggesting, “Let’s Not Complicate Things.”

The campaign will kick off with a Thrillist partnership that features digital advertising and a summer sweepstakes alongside additional digital, social and trade advertising. Plus, all web presence, on- and off-premise POS and local market activations will reflect the transition to the new campaign.

“This beautiful package update and campaign will contribute immensely to the next stage of growth for Lunazul,” said Reid M. Hafer, Senior Brand Manager for Lunazul Tequila. “The product was a market innovator upon initial release has grown double digits each year for the past five years. The foundation for its success is built and a bright future is ahead with this package and campaign.”

Lunazul 100% Agave Tequila has been one of the leading new Tequila brands in the 100% Agave sub-category. It is both a Beverage Information Group “Rising Star” and Impact “Hot Prospect” for volume growth since 2013.

Lunazul Tequilas (SRP $19.99-24.99) are available in four varieties, Blanco, Reposado, Añejo and Primero.  Blanco and Reposado are available in 1.75 liter, 1.0 liter, 1.0 bar liter, 750 ml and 50 ml sizes, while the Añejo and Primero are available in the 750ml size only.  All are bottled at 40% alcohol by volume. Learn more at www.lunazultequila.com.

Founded in 1935, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Brands (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes Evan Williams Bourbon; Larceny, Elijah Craig and Henry McKenna Bourbons, Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Admiral Nelson’s and Blackheart Rums; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; The Christian Brothers Brandies; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur; Lunazul Tequila; Cinerator Hot Cinnamon Flavored Whiskey and Rittenhouse Rye Whisky.

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CONTACT: 

Josh Hafer
Communications Manager
Heaven Hill Brands
(502) 413-0219
jhafer@heavenhill.com 

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Blackheart Premium Spiced Rum Is Official Rum of Bellator MMA

Blackheart Premium Spiced Rum Is Official Rum of Bellator MMA™

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Bardstown, KY— Starting this summer, Blackheart Premium Spiced Rum, a 93-proof spiced rum, will be the official rum of Bellator MMA™, one of the leading mixed martial arts (MMA) properties in the U.S., earning exposure to millions of fans in the brand’s core demographic.

As the official rum, Blackheart will be featured on in-cage and arena signage during live Bellator events. In addition, the first Blackheart Rum television commercial, as well as custom in-show features will air in conjunction with Bellator events on Spike TV. And Blackheart will be promoted on Bellator’s social and digital channels, reaching millions of MMA fans. The sponsorship officially kicks off on June 26 with “Bellator 139” featuring a heavyweight slugfest between Cheick Kongo and former world champion, Alexander Volkov. 

Blackheart has been a knockout in the Spiced Rum category with double-digit growth since it was released by Heaven Hill Brands in 2010. With its unique “sultry seductress of the high seas,” back story and label art featuring a sexy, pirate pin‐up girl, Blackheart embodies a bold, edgy lifestyle.

“We are looking forward to this sponsorship and its ability to bring the high energy, bold sport of mixed martial arts together with our Blackheart Rum that’s edgy to its core,” said Hannah Venhoff, Blackheart Brand Manager. “And with two brands like Bellator and Blackheart, both seeing incredible growth over the last few years, this is sure to be an exciting partnership.”  

Bellator MMA was founded in 2008 and has since become one of the world’s largest mixed martial arts promotions, in a sport that continues to grow in popularity Bellator has a vision to enhance the fight business and offer the most exciting sporting events for viewers, while featuring top-athletes from around the world. Bellator MMA audience numbers have seen double-digit growth with live, main event fights often drawing over 1 million viewers.

“We are thrilled to partner with Blackheart Rum, an exciting and emerging brand that will resonate with our passionate, growing fan base,” said Scott Coker, Bellator President.    

Blackheart Premium Spiced Rum is available in 1.75L, 1L, 750ml and 50ml sizes and bottled at 46.5 percent alcohol by volume (93 proof). In 2014, for the second straight year, Blackheart Premium Spiced Rum was named a “Rising Star” by The Beverage Information Group. Rum is the second-largest spirits category and is projected to increase to 28 million cases in sales this year, according to The Beverage Information Group.

Available nationally, Blackheart brand support consists of a comprehensive marketing plan that includes on‐ and off‐premise point‐of‐sale materials, website and social media activities and print and digital advertising that all embody the brand tagline “Seduction in a Bottle.”

About Heaven Hill Brands: Founded in 1935, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Brands (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes Evan Williams Bourbon; Larceny, Elijah Craig and Henry McKenna Bourbons, Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Admiral Nelson’s and Blackheart Rums; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; The Christian Brothers Brandies; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur; Lunazul Tequila; Cinerator Hot Cinnamon Flavored Whiskey and Rittenhouse Rye Whisky.

About Bellator MMA: Bellator MMA is a leading Mixed Martial Arts organization featuring many of the best fighters in the world. Under the direction of veteran fight promoter Scott Coker, Bellator is available to nearly 500 million homes worldwide in over 140 countries. In the United States, Bellator can be seen on Spike, the MMA television leader.  Bellator MMA is comprised of an executive team that includes top industry professionals in television production, live event orchestration, fighter development/relations, venue procurement, sponsorship creation/development, international licensing, marketing, advertising, publicity and commission relations.  Bellator is based in Santa Monica, California and owned by entertainment giant Viacom, home to the world’s premier entertainment brands that connect with audiences through compelling content across television, motion picture, online and mobile platforms.

About Spike: Spike is available in 98.7 million homes and is a division of Viacom Media Networks.  A unit of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB), Viacom Media Networks is one of the world’s leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms.  Spike’s Internet address is www.spike.com and for up-to-the-minute and archival press information and photographs, visit Spike’s press site at http://www.spike.com/press.  Follow us on Twitter @spiketvpr for the latest in breaking news updates, behind-the-scenes information and photos.                                            

CONTACT: 
Josh Hafer
Communications Manager
Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc.
(502) 413-0219
jhafer@heavenhill.com
www.heavenhill.com

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Bryan Wood Named Florida Regional Manager for Heaven Hill Brands

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Bryan Wood Named Florida Regional Manager for Heaven Hill Brands

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Heaven Hill Brands is pleased to announce that Bryan Wood has joined the company as the Florida Regional Manager. In this role, Wood will work closely with the local distributor sales teams to execute Heaven Hill’s strategic initiatives in the Florida market. The position reports to Steve Alexander, United Division Manager.

Wood comes to Heaven Hill with more than eighteen years of industry experience in Florida. His distilled spirits career began with Southern Wine & Spirits in Florida.

“Bryan is an accomplished professional and I know his passion and extensive knowledge of the industry will serve us well,” said Steve Alexander, United Division Manager.

Wood attended the University of Akron and majored in Hotel and Restaurant Management with a minor in Culinary Arts. He lives in Jupiter, Fla., with his wife and their nine-year-old daughter.

About Heaven Hill Brands: Founded in 1935, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Brands (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes Evan Williams Bourbon; Larceny, Elijah Craig and Henry McKenna Bourbons, Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Admiral Nelson’s and Blackheart Rums; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; The Christian Brothers Brandies; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur; Lunazul Tequila; Cinerator Hot Cinnamon Flavored Whiskey and Rittenhouse Rye Whisky. Heaven Hill reminds you to “Think Wisely. Drink Wisely.”

Contact: Josh Hafer
Communications Manager
Heaven Hill Brands
(502) 413-0219
jhafer@heavenhill.com

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