Category: Announcements

Tenth Edition of annual ultra-premium release will feature rare 24-year-old Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon and continued support of ALS research and patient care

BARDSTOWN, KY— Heaven Hill Distillery announces the 2016 limited edition release of Parker’s Heritage Collection – a 24-year-old, Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon. The uniqueness of this bottling lies not only in its age, but also in its Bottled-in-Bond designation. Bottled-in-Bonds, as they are referred, have experienced renewed interest by consumers because of the long and storied history behind such a designation. Offering the most Bottled-in-Bond labels of any distiller, Heaven Hill helped to maintain this sub-category during leaner years and, more recently, has fueled interest in it with the launch of several new Bottled-in-Bond bottlings, including the newest edition of Parker’s Heritage Collection. The 24-year-old, Bottled-in-Bond will be shipping into select markets across the country beginning in September.

The Parker’s Heritage Collection series was originally conceived to showcase the extraordinary quality and broad range of Heaven Hill’s American Whiskey holdings, as Heaven Hill boasts the world’s second largest inventory of aging American Whiskey. The annual release is one of the most highly anticipated bottlings for whiskey and Bourbon lovers worldwide, as the collection produces an innovative, coveted product each year.

The 2016 edition, the tenth in the series, features two separate versions of the Bottled-in-Bond product, expected to be the oldest Bottled-in-Bond in the world. It was produced in Fall 1990 and Spring 1991 at Heaven Hill’s distillery in Bardstown, KY, (D.S.P. KY-31), which was later destroyed in 1996 by fire along with seven rickhouses and over 90,000 barrels. The liquid is bottled by season in order to retain its Bottled-in-Bond designation. While Heaven Hill now produces its award-winning Bourbon and American Whiskey out of the Bernheim Distillery in downtown Louisville, this Parker’s Heritage Collection edition will feature the original distillery designation on the back label, making it a worthy successor to the previous nine releases.

Bottled at 100 proof (50% abv) and non-chill filtered, the Bourbon will retain more of the natural esters and fatty acids that have matured in the barrel for almost a quarter of a century, providing a richer mouthfeel. Oak flavor is prominent with hints of cinnamon and vanilla, rounded out by a clean finish with a hint of chocolate.

Heaven Hill Master Distiller Emeritus Parker Beam, for whom the acclaimed series is named, was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (also called ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease) several years ago. The past three editions from 2013-2015, including the “Promise of Hope” Bourbon, the “Original Batch” Straight Wheat Whiskey, and the Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey, respectively, have raised over half a million dollars toward ALS research and patient care through contributions made by Heaven Hill for each bottle purchased. Heaven Hill will continue with this cause-related campaign, and will contribute $15 from the average national retail cost of $249.99 of each 750ml bottle sold of this year’s release to the ALS Association. With every past edition of Parker’s Heritage Collection quickly selling out, the company expects to continue to generate significant dollars for this effort.

“We are proud to again offer a unique Bourbon style for the Parker’s Heritage Collection, one that is a nod to Heaven Hill’s expertise with Bottled-in-Bond products,” said Susan Wahl, American Whiskey Group Portfolio Manager at Heaven Hill Distillery. “As the oldest Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon in the world, we anticipate this to be another highly sought after addition to whiskey fanatics’ collections and, as important to us, it will enable a significant contribution to ALS research and patient care efforts.”

Packaged in the same upscale 750ml bottle as the previous nine editions but with a cream colored label, the Parker’s Heritage Collection 24-Year-Old Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey bottling reflects the care and craftsmanship of its contents. Available in a three bottle case, it will be featured on the shelves and back bars of the nation’s finest spirits retailers and on-premise accounts starting in September. With previous releases having won multiple awards from Whisky Advocate magazine, Whisky Magazine and the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, the rare bottlings stand as some of the most critically lauded American Whiskeys in recent memory. Past bottlings have won awards ranging from “Best North American Whiskey” to “American Whiskey of the Year” to “Best of Show, Brown Spirits.”

Heaven Hill reminds you to “Think Wisely.  Drink Wisely.”

CONTACT:
Lauren Cherry
Communications Coordinator
Heaven Hill Brands
(502) 413-0217
lcherry@heavenhill.com
www.heavenhill.com

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LOUISVILLE, KY – The 31^st annual Evan Williams Bourbon Cooking Contest kicked off the culinary competitions at the Kentucky State Fair on Friday, August 19, showcasing many of the most creative Bourbon dishes in the Commonwealth.  Heaven Hill Distillery, producers of Evan Williams Bourbon, awarded the coveted Blue Ribbon top prize to Carolyne Davis of Louisville, Kentucky, for her Char-Grilled Steak Salad with Bourbon Balsamic Vinaigrette. After entering the contest each year for the past 30 years, this is the first time Carolyne has placed in the top three.

A distinguished panel of local judges selected the entrée from over 35 entries this year. Red (second place) and White (third place) ribbons were awarded to Linda Danner of Louisville, Kentucky for her Maple Bourbon Stuffed Holiday Pork Loin and Richard Myers of Bagdad, Kentucky for his Evan Williams Bourbon Barbecue Burgoo, respectively. 

Judges for the contest included Ashlee Clark Thompson, food writer and author of the book Louisville Diners; Albert Schmid, Professor & Director of Hotel-Restaurant Management & Hospitality Management Departments at Sullivan University’s National Center for Hospitality Studies; Steve Coomes, food writer and consultant, author of two books including, Country Ham: A Southern Tradition of Hogs, Salt & Smoke; Jonathan Schwartz, Director of Operations for Falls City Hospitality Group, servicing Doc Crow’s and Doc’s Cantina; Sarah Fritschner, food consultant and writer, and coordinator for Louisville Farm to Table; and Denny Potter, co-master distiller for Heaven Hill Brands.

During the judging, contestants and spectators were treated to a cooking with Bourbon demonstration by Chef Scott Hoppel of Gospel Bird. Chef Hoppel performed the demonstration using Evan Williams Bourbon, America’s second-largest selling Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.  Also on hand to assist Chef Hoppel and keep the crowd on its toes was host Kelly K from the “Ben and Kelly Show” on 99.7 DJX.

Heaven Hill Distillery, the Bardstown, Ky.-based maker of distilled spirits, produces Evan Williams Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey – named for the Commonwealth’s first distiller who set up his distillery on the banks of the Ohio River in 1783. 

“The unique heritage of America’s Native Spirit, coupled with the Commonwealth’s flagship exposition, presents a grand stage for some of the finest amateur chefs,” said Max L. Shapira, president of Heaven Hill Distillery. “In this 31^st year of the Evan Williams Cooking Contest, we are inspired by their creativity and enthusiasm.”

The recipes were rated on originality, ease of preparation, appearance, name and the contribution of Evan Williams Bourbon to the taste and aroma of the dish. In addition to receiving a coveted Kentucky State Fair prize ribbon and a cash prize, each of the winning entries will be considered for publication in the next “Cooking with Bourbon” recipe booklet, published periodically by Heaven Hill Distilleries.

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; Deep Eddy Vodka; 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.”

31st Annual Evan Williams Bourbon Cooking Contest Winning Recipe
August 19, 2016

Char-Grilled Steak Salad with Bourbon Balsamic Vinaigrette
Carolyne Davis, Louisville, KY

1 12 oz Ribeye or steak cut of your choice
¼ cup Evan Williams Bourbon
¼ Worcestershire Sauce
1 tbsp. dijon mustard
1 tbsp. maple syrup

Put steak in a plastic bag. Mix all other ingredients and put over steak. Marinate overnight in fridge. Grill steak about 4 minutes each side for nice rare steak or about 5 minutes for medium. Let sit several minutes and slice thinly across the grain.

4 cups arugula
¾ cups toasted walnuts*
â…“ Cup gorgonzola crumbles
½ cup crispy pork belly, chopped
½ large mango, peeled and sliced

In medium bowl, toss arugula with 2 tbsp. of dressing. Mound on a plate and top with mango slices, chopped pork belly, walnuts, gorgonzola and steak slices. Drizzle with another tbsp. or so of dressing.

4 oz pork belly, sliced rather thin
1 medium shallot, minced
1 ½ cup Evan Williams Bourbon
3 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp. Dijon mustard
3 tbsp. maple syrup
Salt and pepper tp taste

Brown pork belly in hot skillet over medium heat until nicely browned. Drain slices on paper towel. Reserve for the salad. Drain of all but 2 tbsp. of fat. Add shallots to fat and cook until tender. Combine Bourbon, vinegar, syrup and mustard, and add to shallots. Stir until well blended. Add salt and pepper to taste. Can be poured over salad as a hot dressing to wilt greens or cool to room temperature.

¾ cup raw walnut halves
1 tbsp. butter
1 tbsp. maple syrup
1 tbsp. Evan Williams Bourbon

Melt butter in skillet and add walnut halves. Toss until they start to brown. Stir in maple syrup and Bourbon. Toss for another minute, then remove from heat and spread on wax paper, separating the pieces.

-30-

CONTACT:
Lauren Cherry
Communications Coordinator
Heaven Hill Brands
(502) 413-0217
lcherry@heavenhill.com
www.heavenhill.com

To download images from this press release, please visit the Heaven Hill “Press Room” at http://connect.heavenhill.com/ThinClient/Login.aspx and enter the username and password below.

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Folder: Evan Williams Cooking Contest

BARDSTOWN, KY – Burnett’s Vodka is bottling up the summer’s hottest party in a custom package celebrating the red, white and blue. The limited edition packaging will be available nationally in May.

USA Party Edition, offered through summer 2016 only, is a stand out among other spirits with its bold label celebrating the American spirit and superior smoothness. With its ode to the stripes, mixed with a paint splattering across the middle, the USA Party Edition will be the champion atop bars at summer parties.

“It’s all in the name – Burnett’s Vodka is bringing more fun with a revamped look to celebrate the stars and the stripes,” said Reid Hafer, Senior Brand Manager. “From rooting on the USA to celebrating independence, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the American spirit this summer. The Burnett’s USA Party Edition is your ticket to a nationwide party for the red, white and blue.”

The USA Party Edition is available for a suggested retail price of $15.99 for the 1.75L and is bottled at 40% alcohol by volume (80 proof). The launch of the new custom label, on the 1.75L only, is supported by custom shippers, case card and shelf facings. The Burnett’s website (www.burnettsvodka.com) and the Burnett’s ‘More Recipes, More Fun’ Mobile App (available on Apple and Android devices) provide information and drink recipes.

Burnett’s Vodka is one of the top-selling vodkas in the nation and the 12th largest selling distilled spirits brand in the US. Since 2000, Burnett’s Vodka has consistently won Beverage Information Group’s “Growth Brand” and Impact’s “Hot Brand” awards as one of the fastest growing products in the industry. In 2015, Burnett’s Vodka was named to Beverage Information Group’s inaugural “Growth Brands Hall of Fame.” The entire line includes the Classic Vodka, an array of Flavored Vodkas, Gin, Rums, and 100 proof varieties.

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; Deep Eddy Vodka; 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:
Lauren Cherry
Communications Coordinator
Heaven Hill Brands
(502) 413-0217
lcherry@heavenhill.com
www.heavenhill.com

To download images from this press release, please visit the Heaven Hill “Press Room” at http://connect.heavenhill.com/ThinClient/Login.aspx and enter the username and password below.

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Folder: Burnett’s Vodka

BARDSTOWN, KY – Heaven Hill Brands and Liquor.com announced today the champion of the 2016 Bartender of the Year competition. After a nationwide search to find the top bartenders across America, Abigail Gullo of Compere Lapin in New Orleans, LA is the 2016 Bartender of the Year and the recipient of $15,000. Gullo will also be featured in three “how-to” cocktail videos on Liquor.com. Brian Means of Dirty Habit in San Francisco, CA was runner up. 

Eight finalists competed beachside at the St. Regis Bahia Resort in Puerto Rico on June 7. Final bartenders competed in three rounds, first in the “market challenge” creating an original cocktail utilizing ingredients native to Puerto Rico. Four contestants moved on to the “in the weeds” challenge, creating and presenting as many cocktails as possible from a given list in the time provided. Two contestants moved on to the final “master class” challenge where they presented a 15-minute bartending class as though they were instructing the next generation of bartenders.

Over 600 original cocktail recipes using Domaine de Canton French Ginger Liqueur, Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon, PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur, and Rittenhouse Rye Whisky were submitted online nationwide beginning August 1, 2015. 32 semifinalists then competed in New Orleans, San Francisco, New York, or Chicago throughout February and March. Eight semifinal bartenders in each region competed in two rounds, with the top two bartenders from each region moving on to Puerto Rico.

“Since its inception, this competition has been an avenue to support innovative bartenders whose professionalism are continually raising the bar for the future of the craft,” said Kate Latts, Vice President Marketing for Heaven Hill Brands. “Congratulations to Abigail and to each of the contestants for displaying exemplary skill and creativity. We look forward to continuing this competition in the future with our diverse portfolio of spirits leading the way for innovation in bartending.”

National Brand Educator for Heaven Hill Brands Lynn House, Director of Mixology & Spirits Education for Southern Wine & Spirits of New York Allen Katz, and Bar Manager of Clyde Common & Pépé Le Moko Jeffrey Morgenthaler judged the final eight bartenders. Finalists were challenged on their full range of skills as hospitality professionals. Judges were looking for the ultimate bartender who displays the total breadth and aptitude all bartenders aspire to embody.

Grounded in the original Bartender of the Year Competition 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.

The following bartenders competed in the 2016 Bartender of the Year Finals:

Evan Williams Bourbon is saluting American veterans with a custom red, white and blue edition of Evan Williams Black Bourbon featuring the heroic stories of 10 military veterans, chosen for their selfless acts of service at home and abroad.

As an American-made and American-owned brand, Evan Williams recognizes true American heroes through their exceptional stories of honor and bravery. Available exclusively during the month of May for Memorial Day and extending through July 4, this limited edition bottle will be sold nationwide. 

The American Hero Edition bottle features custom labels showcasing the individual stories of the ten Evan Williams American-Made Heroes on one side. Adorned with stars and stripes, the red, white and blue bottle pays homage to the ultimate symbol of American independence. Evan Williams is the world’s second largest selling Bourbon in the world, and remains family-owned and operated to this day.

“Evan Williams is proud to work directly with our chosen military heroes to showcase their achievements in the military and in their communities,” said Chris Ratterman, Evan Williams Bourbon Brand Manager. “The American-Made Heroes program encompasses the spirit of Evan Williams’ American heritage and those who protect the American spirit day in and day out. Every hero has a story, and Evan Williams is honored to share them.”

Evan Williams is also extending the program by inviting others to nominate the military hero in their life to win a $250 gift of thanks and the chance to be selected as one of the next official Evan Williams American-Made Heroes – a prize that will be awarded to hundreds of military members. Nominations will showcase the difference each of the veterans are making in the lives of others while exemplifying their courageousness. To learn more about the program, go to www.American-MadeHeroes.com.

The American Hero Edition is available for a suggested retail price of $24.99 for the 1.75L and is bottled at 43% alcohol by volume (86 proof). The launch of the new custom label is supported by national advertising through ESPN the Magazine, Military.com, newspaper, and other key digital video and social media partners. Custom bottle neckers and retail displays featuring a military-grade footlocker to display the bottles will also support the launch.

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; Deep Eddy Vodka; 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:
Lauren Cherry
Communications Coordinator
Heaven Hill Brands
(502) 413-0217
lcherry@heavenhill.com
www.heavenhill.com

To download images from this press release, please visit the Heaven Hill “Press Room” at http://connect.heavenhill.com/ThinClient/Login.aspx and enter the username and password below.

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Folder: Evan Williams Black