Category: Announcements

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Evan Williams Signs on to Become Official Bourbon of Championship Bull Riding

World’s Second Leading Selling Bourbon Reaches Partnership Agreement with CBR Nationwide Professional Bull Riding Tour

BARDSTOWN, KY—Evan Williams Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, the second best selling Bourbon in the world, has signed a deal with Championship Bull Riding (CBR) to become the “Official Bourbon of the CBR”.  Evan Williams, a product of Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc., is already a major sponsor of the BASS Elite Series and BASS Elite pro angler Jason Quinn, but is expanding their sponsorship dollars out into another sport that indexes particularly high against the Bourbon demographic—professional bull riding.

By becoming a major sponsor and the official Bourbon of the CBR, Evan Williams will enjoy exposure to attendees at more than 20 live events nationwide with over 100,000 fans in attendance, plus over 14 million viewers each year through primetime broadcast of CBR events on the Great American Country (GAC) cable network.  Evan Williams, which sold over a million 9-liter cases last year in the United States and internationally, will also enjoy display and sampling opportunities at CBR events.  CBR was founded by bull riding icon Tuff Hedeman in 2004 and bills itself as “The Real Cowboy Sport”, riding a wave of popularity for rodeo events and bull riding in particular.

“Given the high index of bull riding and rodeo sports against the Bourbon demographic audience, we feel that our sponsorship of the CBR and Evan Williams’ status as its official Bourbon will allow us to reach a large and growing audience in a relevant and targeted way,” noted Susan Wahl, Brand Manager for Evan Williams at Heaven Hill.  “With our sponsorship position in professional bass fishing already well-established, we feel that the CBR provides a great environment in which to promote Evan Williams to a different, but equally engaged audience.”

Evan Williams, named after Kentucky’s first distiller and a past winner of “Best Buy Whiskey of the Year” from Malt Advocate magazine, is produced according to a traditional 200 year old recipe by Heaven Hill’s father and son Master Distillers, Parker and Craig Beam.  In addition to its sponsorship of the BASS Elite Series and now CBR, Evan Williams runs a multi-million dollar full page advertising campaign in publications that consistently index highest against Bourbon drinkers, such as Sports Illustrated, Rolling Stone, Maxim and Field & Stream.

“We are pleased to have reached a partnership agreement with a producer of such a high quality, uniquely American product,” stated Wes Bruce, CEO of Championship Bull Riding.  “We look forward to a long term relationship with Evan Williams Bourbon.”

About Evan Williams

Evan Williams Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (www.evanwilliams.com) is the world’s second-largest selling Bourbon, named after Kentucky’s first distiller from 1783.  It is produced by Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (www.heaven-hill.com) and made under the careful supervision of Heaven Hill’s father and son Master Distillers, Parker and Craig Beam, who represent the sixth and seventh generations, respectively, of the most famous family in American Whiskey.  Along with Evan Williams, Heaven Hill has a diversified portfolio of brands that includes The Christian Brothers Brandies; Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey; Rittenhouse Straight Rye Whisky; Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Hpnotiq Liqueur; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Lunazul and Two Fingers Tequilas, and Dubonnet Aperitif.

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

About CBR

Led by bull riding icon, Tuff Hedeman, Championship Bull Riding, Inc. (CBR) is a nationwide professional bull riding tour which airs primetime every week on GAC with over 14 million viewers each year and logging over 300 hours of television annually since 2004.  Every CBR Tour features a two hour show and an adrenaline rush with more than 20 events and over 100,000 fans in live attendance. CBR is home of the REAL COWBOY SPORT and the best bull riders and bulls in the world. We are committed to the riders, the fans, the sponsors, and all those involved in the professional bull riding industry and we live by the words Strength, Stamina, Integrity and Speed.  For more information on CBR, please visit www.CBRbull.com or call us at (817) 626-BULL.

CONTACT:
Larry Kass
Director of Corporate Communications
Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc.
(502) 413-0220
lkass@heaven-hill.com

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Parker’s Heritage Collection Golden Anniversary Bourbon named

Five decade Bourbon blend earns highest score ever given a Bourbon in annual Malt Advocate Whisky Awards

BARDSTOWN, KY–The Parker’s Heritage Collection Golden Anniversary Bourbon was awarded the highest honor when it was named “American Whiskey of the Year” in the 16th annual Malt Advocate Whisky Awards, given yearly by Malt Advocate Magazine publisher and editor John Hansell.

According to the organizers, “The Malt Advocate Whisky Awards exist to recognize excellence in the world of whisky. Now in their sixteenth year, these awards are the oldest and longest-running annual whisky awards program. They honor the world’s greatest whiskies and distilleries, and the individuals who make and promote them.”  In awarding the American Whiskey of the Year to Parker’s Heritage Collection Golden Anniversary Bourbon, the organizers praised it as “…a fabulous whiskey; seamless, incredibly complex, with an impeccable marriage of youth and maturity.”

With the awarding of Malt Advocate’s American Whiskey of the Year, the annual series of whiskeys bottled under the Parker’s Heritage Collection, while only in their third release, have already garnered two of the biggest available industry awards.  Last year’s second release, a 27-year-old Bourbon, was the first American Whiskey ever named “Best of Show, Brown Spirits” at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition.  The series is a limited edition collection of American Whiskeys, produced by Heaven Hill Distilleries, named for and honoring 6th generation Master Distiller Parker Beam.  This year’s Golden Anniversary edition commemorated Parker’s 50 years at Heaven Hill, the nation’s largest independent family owned and operated spirits producer and the world’s second largest holders of aging Bourbon, by marrying barrels from each decade of Parker’s 50 years with Heaven Hill.  The Golden Anniversary is available in limited quantities until next Fall, bottled at 100 proof and at a national average retail price of $150 for a 750ml bottle.

Malt Advocate also announced its worldwide “Top Ten New Whiskies for 2009”. This list included not only the Parker’s Golden Anniversary Bourbon, but also Heaven Hill’s Rittenhouse Very Rare 25-year-old Single Barrel Rye.

Hansell, one of the world’s leading authorities on whiskies/eys, specifically praised the Golden Anniversary bottling as “…a classic bourbon that’s very complex, yet very drinkable.”  In his review in Malt Advocate Magazine, he scored the Bourbon as a 97 out of 100 points, making the Parker’s Heritage Collection Golden Anniversary the highest rated American Whiskey ever in the publication’s nearly 20 year history.

“It’s quite an honor to win this award from John and Malt Advocate Magazine,” stated Parker Beam, a charter member of the Bourbon Hall of Fame.  “Just having this edition recognizing my 50 years at Heaven Hill was a thrill, and this just makes it more so.”

Founded in 1934, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (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 The Christian Brothers Brandies; Evan Williams and Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys; Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Hpnotiq Liqueur; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Lunazul and Two Fingers Tequilas, and Dubonnet Aperitif.

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

CONTACT:
Larry Kass
Director of Corporate Communications
Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc.
(502) 413-0220
lkass@heaven-hill.com

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Heaven Hill Distilleries Names Jessica L. Butt Metro New York Sales Manager

Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc., the nation’s largest, family-owned and operated marketer and producer of distilled spirits, announces the promotion of Jessica L. Butt to Metro New York Sales Manager.  Jessica, who previously held the position of Metro New York On-Premise Market Manager for the past three years, will expand her activity to include all facets of managing the Heaven Hill brand portfolio, both on- and off-premise, in Metro New York.  Jessica will continue to report to Edward J. DiMuro, New York Region Sales Manager.

“Jessica has forged strong relationships with all the key on-premise owners and mixologists, and through the unique nature of the Metro New York market, has also worked with many of the key New York City retailers,” said Director of North American Sales, Steve Feller.   “Expanding her responsibilities to include both off- and on-premise was a clear opportunity to build on our already strong presence in this bellwether market.”

Jessica joined Heaven Hill after a successful career at the Hart Agency, an on- and off-premise promotions company based out of New York City.  Jessica, who is originally from Massapequa, NY, graduated as a member of the Dean’s List from Towson University in 2006 with a major in Mass Communications.  She currently resides in Massapequa, New York.

Founded in 1934, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (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 The Christian Brothers Brandies; Evan Williams and Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys; Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Hpnotiq Liqueur; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Lunazul and Two Fingers Tequilas, and Dubonnet Aperitif.

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CONTACT:
Larry Kass
Corporate Communications Director
502-413-0220
lkass@heavenhill.com

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Blackheart Premium Spiced Rum now available

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Blackheart Premium Spiced Rum is now available from Heaven Hill Distilleries.  Blackheart is a high-proof spiced rum that embodies an edgy, hip lifestyle with a unique brand story.

Blackheart Rum is named for the sultry seductress of the high seas.  Blackheart is bold and bawdy, cunning and cutthroat, sexy and seductive and left a trail of broken hearts wherever she traveled – that is how she came to be known as Blackheart. This is her rum. 

“With the strength of the rum category, we recognized a great opportunity to deliver a product with a really engaging story,” said Brittany Blevins, Blackheart Brand Manager.  “The core target for this rum embodies the rebellious nature of the Blackheart Rum.  As the high-proof segment of the category grows, we believe Blackheart will be ideally positioned.”

Blackheart Premium Spiced Rum is available in 750ml and 50ml sizes and bottled at 46.5 percent alcohol by volume (93 proof).  The depiction of the infamous Blackheart character is reminiscent of historic pin-up girl artwork.  Her seductive pirate attire is a reflection of the rum’s sassy attitude.  Collectively, the bottle, label art and marketing appeal to a new generation of rum drinkers.  

Available nationally, brand support consists of a comprehensive marketing plan that includes on-and off-premise point-of-sale materials, website (www.blackheartrum.com), and social media activities that embody the brand tagline “Seduction in a Bottle.”

Founded in 1934, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (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 The Christian Brothers Brandies; Evan Williams and Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys; Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Hpnotiq Liqueur; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Lunazul and Two Fingers Tequilas, and Dubonnet Aperitif.

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CONTACT:
Josh Hafer
Corporate Communications Manager
Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc.
502-413-0220
jhafer@heavenhill.com

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Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. hires American Whiskey Brand Ambassador

BARDSTOWN, (Ky.) – Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. has hired Rob Hutchins as American Whiskey Brand Ambassador, supporting the sales and marketing efforts of its portfolio of award-winning specialty whiskey brands.

In his new role, Hutchins will be responsible for the development and implementation of a fully integrated national program to continue to enhance the profile of the Heaven Hill specialty American Whiskeys among both consumers and trade.  In addition, he will educate these parties on history, production, laws and standards of the products in the Heaven Hill Whiskey family.  He will be concentrating on Heaven Hill’s specialty bourbons including Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage, Elijah Craig, and Parker’s Heritage Collection as well as the critically acclaimed Rittenhouse Rye, and Bernheim Original Wheat Whiskey.  Heaven Hill’s American Whiskey portfolio was just recognized with a second consecutive “Distiller of the Year” award in Whisky Magazine’s Icons of Whisky North America competition.

Before joining Heaven Hill, the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated, marketer and producer of distilled spirits, Hutchins spent 14 years in the industry with both the wholesale and supplier tiers.  Most recently he implemented special training and educational programs with consumers and trade.

“Rob brings a tremendous amount of industry experience and will be an integral part of formulating and implementing our American Whiskey Brand Ambassador program,” noted Steve Feller, Director, North American Sales for Heaven Hill Distilleries. “Having someone of his knowledge in the market to educate consumers and both on- and off-premise trade, will be a great asset as we continue to grow our portfolio of world-renowned American Whiskeys.” 

Originally from Danville, Ky., Hutchins graduated with a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Kentucky.  He will reside full time in Louisville, Ky.

Founded in 1934, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (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 The Christian Brothers Brandies; Evan Williams and Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys; Hpnotiq Liqueur; Whaler’s Rum; Burnett’s Gin and Vodkas; Dubonnet Aperitif; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Água Luca Brazilian Rum Cachaça, and Lunazul Tequila.

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CONTACT:
Larry Kass
Corporate Communications Director
Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc.
502-413-0220
lkass@heavenhill.com

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Heaven Hill Distilleries Captures “U.S. Whisky Distiller Of The Year” for the Second Consecutive Year at Whisky Magazine’s 2009 U.S. Icons of Whisky Presentations

America’s Largest Independent Family-Owned and Operated Distilled Spirits Company is the First to Win the Award in Back-to-Back Years

LOUISVILLE, KY – Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc., the nation’s largest independent family-owned and operated distilled spirits producer and marketer, was voted the best distiller in the United States for the second consecutive time during the presentation of Whisky Magazine’s U.S. Icons of Whisky America on November 11th in Louisville.  The Icons of Whisky “celebrate the people and places behind the greatest whiskies in the world,” according to the organizers, with the judging process taking place in regional heats including the U.S., Scotland, and Rest of the World.  The American winners will now go head-to-head with Scotland and Rest of the World winners, with the final World Icons being announced at a ceremony on the eve of Whisky Live London on February 25th.

In awarding “Distiller of the Year”, Whisky Magazine Editor Rob Allanson lauded Heaven Hill Distilleries for “quietly getting on with the job and releasing some stunning whiskies.”   Heaven Hill was also awarded the same honor last year, marking the first time a distillery has won the award in consecutive years           

The Bardstown-based company, the world’s second-largest holder of aging American Whiskey, produces such critically acclaimed brands as Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage Bourbon, Elijah Craig Bourbon, Rittenhouse Rye, Bernheim Original Wheat Whiskey and the Parker’s Heritage Collection of American Whiskeys, all crafted under the watchful eyes of sixth and seventh generation Master Distillers Parker and Craig Beam. 

Heaven Hill was also awarded “U.S. Visitor’s Attraction of the Year” last year for their Bourbon Heritage Center, which upon its opening in October of 2004 immediately raised the bar for all other hospitality facilities along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.  Heaven Hill went on to capture the worldwide “Visitor’s Attraction of the Year” award, beating out distilleries from America, Scotland, Ireland and Japan.

“It is a major honor to win this U.S. Distiller of the Year award, and to win it twice in a row is indeed affirmation that our commitment to the American Whiskey category is being recognized at the highest levels,” stated Heaven Hill Distilleries President Max L. Shapira.  “As the only remaining distiller that produces all the unique styles of American Straight Whiskey–bourbon, rye, wheat whiskey, and corn whiskey–we take great pride in this recognition and award from Whisky Magazine.  On behalf of my family, of Parker and Craig Beam, and all of our Heaven Hill employees, we are most humbled by and appreciative for this honor.”

Founded in 1934, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (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 The Christian Brothers Brandies; Evan Williams and Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys; Hpnotiq Liqueur; Whaler’s Rum; Burnett’s Gin and Vodkas; Dubonnet Aperitif; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Água Luca Brazilian Rum Cachaça, and Lunazul Tequila.

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

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CONTACT:
Larry Kass
Director of Corporate Communications   
Heaven Hill Distilleries  
(502) 413-0220   
lkass@heaven-hill.com

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Evan Williams Single Barrel 2000 Vintage Bourbon Debuts in New Packaging

Five-time “Whiskey of the Year” winner to launch milestone latest edition with updated labeling

BARDSTOWN, KY—Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage, the world’s only vintage-dated single barrel Bourbon and one of the most critically-acclaimed American Whiskeys available, announces the release of the newest milestone 2000 Vintage—packaged with a striking new label.  Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc., the second-largest holders of aging American Whiskey in the world and producer of the Evan Williams range of Bourbons, has updated the packaging for the Single Barrel Vintage bottling to better align the look with the flagship Evan Williams Black Label, the world’s second-leading selling Kentucky Bourbon. 

Every year, typically beginning in January, Heaven Hill releases a new and highly anticipated vintage of Evan Williams Single Barrel.  The world-renowned Bourbon has garnered many prestigious awards, including “Spirit of the Year – American Whiskey” from Food & Wine; “Domestic Whiskey of the Year” from Malt Advocate; and “Whiskey of the Year” from The Spirit Journal, the first Bourbon upon which the publication has bestowed this prestigious title.  As with the previous 14 vintages, all of which are now highly sought after collector’s items, each bottle of Evan Williams Single Barrel 2000 Vintage Bourbon is marked with the exact date that it was placed in oak and bottled, in addition to the exact serial number of the single barrel from which it was drawn.

The 86.6 proof Bourbon is matured in natural open-rick warehouses under the careful supervision of Heaven Hill’s father and son Master Distillers, Parker and Craig Beam, who monitor the progress of each year’s vintage to ensure it maintains its intended flavor profile and superb quality.  The 2000 Vintage will be available nationally beginning in November 2009 at an average retail price of $25.99 for a 750 ml bottle, leading one noted spirits publication to confess, “Evan Williams Single Barrel Bourbon may be the best value of any whiskey, anywhere.” 

The 2000 Vintage is shipping earlier than any of the previous 14 new vintages, due to strong consumer demand and the stringent quality standards for the super-premium Bourbon.  “We have dumped and individually bottled over 700 ‘honey barrels’ for the 1999 vintage, more than any other prior year, and we feel like we need to switch over to the next vintage a bit earlier than in the past to account for the growing demand,” explained 6th generation Master Distiller Parker Beam.

The new 2000 vintage will also have a distinctive new look.  The labeling, which has remained the same over the prior 14 vintages, is being updated to refresh the package and to graphically tie more strongly into the equity of the Evan Williams family logo, which adorns the second largest selling Bourbon in the United States and the world.  The new packaging utilizes the same elegant bulb-neck bottle as in the past, but the familiar deckled-edge parchment label carrying the “Single Barrel Vintage” branding and “Put in Oak” date seal now has a bold black Evan Williams logotype transecting it.   The back label, which carries hand-written designation of the barrel number, barreling date and bottling date, will remain largely the same, as will the familiar cork and black wax closure. 

The new Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage bottling is traditionally debuted at a stylish “Vintage Unveiling” event for several hundred members of Heaven Hill’s Bardstown Whiskey Society and a select group of whiskey writers, and this year that tradition continued.  On October 24, at the historic Henry Clay Building in Louisville, Society members and select whiskey writers got the opportunity to taste Barrel #1 of the new release straight from the oak cask, brought up from Rickhouse X in Bardstown where it has quietly matured on the top floor since March of 2000.  They also had the opportunity to sample the fine Bourbon reduced to bottling strength of 86.6 proof.  

Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (www.heavenhill.com) has a diversified portfolio of brands that includes The Christian Brothers Brandies; Evan Williams and Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys; Hpnotiq Liqueur; Whaler’s Rum; Burnett’s Gin and Vodkas; Dubonnet Aperitif; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Água Luca Brazilian Rum Cachaça and Lunazul Tequila.

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

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CONTACT: 
Larry Kass
Director of Corporate Communications
Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc.
(502) 413-0220
lkass@heavenhill.com

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Whisk, Bake or Sauté Your Way to the 2010 Food & Wine Classic in Aspen with PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur

Call for Entries Begins October 15; Online Voting Begins November 16, Winner Announced January 16

NEW YORK (October 9. 2009) PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur has teamed up with FOOD & WINE Magazine to host the “Cooking with PAMA” Contest.  “PAMA is the perfect ingredient in any dish.  The bouquet is appealing, ripe, fruity and berry like and adds a sophisticated flavor to any dish,” said Reid M. Hafer, Senior Brand Manager for PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur.  “We are all more kitchen confident thanks to the popularity of great cooking programs on TV.  The nice thing about this contest is that the Grand Prize enables the winner to be part of the landscape food, wine and entertaining trends at the FOOD & WINE Classic in Aspen,” she continued.

Entrants are invited to submit an appetizer, entrée or dessert recipe using at least 3 TBSP of PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur through Facebook at www.facebook.com/pamaliqueur no later than November 15.  Entries must be accompanied by a photo of the dish.

From November 16 – December 15, fans can vote on Facebook for their favorite recipe.  The ten (10) entries receiving the greatest number of votes along with 10 entries selected by the PAMA Panel will be named Voter Finalists.  The twenty Finalists will be judged by Bravo’s Top Chef cheftestants, Spike Mendelsohn, Jeff McInnis and Lee Ann Wong, to determine the Grand Prize winner and three First Prize Winners.  All winners will be announced on January 16, 2010.  Official Rules are available at www.facebook.com/pamaliqueur.

PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur captures the essence of all natural pomegranates with their complex, sweet yet tart taste and seductive ruby color.  PAMA is made from all natural pomegranate juice, premium vodka and a touch of imported tequila.   It’s outstanding in popular cocktails such as the Martini, Cosmopolitan or Margarita. PAMA is bottled at 17% alcohol by volume and is available in 1.75L, 1.0L, 750ml, 375ml and 50ml sizes.

Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (www.heavenhill.com) has a diversified portfolio of brands that includes The Christian Brothers Brandies; Evan Williams and Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys; Hpnotiq Liqueur; Whaler’s Rum; Burnett’s Gin and Vodkas; Dubonnet Aperitif; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Água Luca Brazilian Rum Cachaça and Lunazul Tequila.

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

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

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Heaven Hill Distilleries Adds Art Riley To Sales Force

BARDSTOWN, KY – Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. added Art Riley to its sales team as Regional Manager for Louisiana and Arkansas.  Riley will be responsible for management of Heaven Hill products on- and off-premise.

Riley brings 15 years of management in the beverage alcohol industry.  During that time he served a variety of divisions within Glazer’s of Louisiana, including beer, wine and spirits.

“Art brings a valuable set of skills to Heaven Hill Distilleries,” said Director of North American Sales, Steve Feller.  “His relationship with our customers in Arkansas and Louisiana will serve us well.”

Riley graduated with a B.S. in Marketing from the University of New Orleans.  He currently resides in Abita Springs, LA.

Art will report to Division Manager John Smart.  He can be reached via email at ariley@heavenhill.com and phone at 985-893-0359 (h) or 985-966-0515 (m). 

Founded in 1934, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (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 The Christian Brothers Brandies; Evan Williams and Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys; Hpnotiq Liqueur; Whaler’s Rum; Burnett’s Gin and Vodkas; Dubonnet Aperitif; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Água Luca Brazilian Rum Cachaça, and Lunazul Tequila.

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

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Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. Elects Allan Latts Chief Operating Officer

Current Director of Corporate Planning named first COO in company’s 75 year history

BARDSTOWN, KY–Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc., the nation’s largest family-owned and operated distilled spirits producer and marketer, elected Allan Latts as its first ever Chief Operating Officer (COO).  Latts has been serving as Heaven Hill’s Director of Corporate Planning since he joined the company in 2001.

In his role as COO, Latts will be responsible for oversight and continuous improvement of internal operations that create and deliver Heaven Hill’s portfolio of distilled spirits products, one of the largest and most diverse in the industry.  Specifically, Latts’ responsibilities include leading strategic planning and business development efforts; oversight and management of internal operations; and development of new company policies, procedures, and processes to enable future growth.

Latts joined Heaven Hill after a successful career in Finance at Cincinnati-based Procter & Gamble.  He served in various roles in the Food and Beverage Division, advancing to the position of Finance Manager for Folgers Coffee, one of P&G’s largest and most profitable brands.  After five years with Procter & Gamble, he left to join Heaven Hill as Director of Corporate Planning.

Latts, who is originally from St. Paul, Minnesota, graduated Cum Laude with Distinction from Duke University in 1991 with a major in Public Policy Studies, and earned his MBA from Duke in 1996 where he was named a Fuqua Scholar, an honor given to the top 10% of graduating students.

A 2005 graduate of Leadership Louisville, Latts’ charitable activities include serving on the Board of Governors of the J.B. Speed Art Museum where he is currently chairman of the Investment Committee and member of the Executive Committee.  Allan is also co-chair of the Glacier Run Capital Campaign for the Louisville Zoo, and a past Vice Chairman and Director of the Kentucky Manufacturers Assistance Corporation.  He is also past chair of the Young Adult Division of the Jewish Federation and currently serves on the Jewish Community of Louisville’s finance committee.

“Allan’s election as Chief Operating Officer, the first in the history of the company, is recognition both of his contributions to Heaven Hill’s growth and of our commitment to best management practices,” asserted Heaven Hill President Max L. Shapira.  “Allan, along with his wife Kate, our Director of Marketing, and my son Andy Shapira, our Director of Sales Analysis, represent the third generation of our family’s leadership, and they possess the vision and capability to take Heaven Hill to even greater heights in the future.”

Heaven Hill, founded in 1934 by Max Shapira’s father and four uncles, has grown to become the nation’s seventh-largest distilled spirits supplier and second-largest holder of aging American Whiskey.

Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (www.heaven-hill.com) has a diversified portfolio of brands that includes The Christian Brothers Brandies; Evan Williams and Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys; Hpnotiq Liqueur; Whaler’s Rum; Burnett’s Gin and Vodkas; Dubonnet Aperitif; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Água Luca Brazilian Rum Cachaça, and Lunazul Tequila.

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

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CONTACT:
Larry Kass
Director of Corporate Communications
Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc.
(502)413-0220
lkass@heavenhill.com