Category: Announcements

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Deep Eddy Vodka Announces Partnership with the Professional Pickleball Association

The Austin, Texas-based spirit brand becomes the Official Vodka of the PPA Tour

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (August 1, 2023) – Deep Eddy Vodka, the trailblazing and exhilarating American-made spirits brand, is thrilled to announce its multi-year partnership with the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) to become the Official Vodka of the PPA Tour.

According to Hannah Venhoff, Vice President of Deep Eddy Vodka, “Pickleball is not only getting attention today as the fastest growing sport in the U.S, but also because of its fun, approachable, serious, but not too serious positioning, and that is exactly what we care about when it comes to Deep Eddy Vodka. With a mission to bring people together for carefree, good times and bring the fun back to the vodka category, this alignment and partnership is perfect for us.” Venhoff continued, “We’re thrilled to partner with the PPA Tour and be a part of all the ways they are making memorable experiences for players and fans alike.”

As a Platinum sponsor of the PPA Tour, Deep Eddy will be prominently featured on Championship Court, where the brightest pickleball stars compete at some of the most exceptional venues across the country. Spectators will have the opportunity to sample Deep Eddy’s diverse range of products at a dedicated activation space and engage in unique fan experiences and giveaways. But that’s not all—Deep Eddy is set to host numerous on-site activations at tournaments, including the Good Time Lounge, Dink n Drink, and After Dark Tournament Series. The After Dark Tournament Series promises exciting programming on tournament evenings, featuring Kings Court competitions, round-robin tournaments, and clinics with PPA Tour pros. More details on activations will be announced soon.

This unique partnership with the PPA Tour promises to energize the on-site and broadcast experience with a fresh burst of fun.  With all the pickleball action happening LIVE on major linear and streaming platforms like CBS, CBS Sports, ESPN, Amazon Prime, Tennis Channel and YouTube, pickleball fans everywhere will get a front row seat to this multi-year agreement that extends beyond the current season. In fact, Deep Eddy will serve as a presenting and title sponsor for several future PPA Tour events throughout the balance of this season and into the next. Deep Eddy Vodka is especially delighted to be named the Official Vodka of the 2023 USA Pickleball National Championships powered by Invited and the PPA Tour, to be held November 5-12 at the Brookhaven Country Club in Dallas, TX.

Connor Pardoe, CEO of the PPA Tour, shared his excitement about the collaboration, stating, “PPA Tour events are all about celebrating the growth and enjoyment of pickleball. This partnership is a match made in heaven, and we are excited to join forces with Deep Eddy Vodka to create unforgettable moments for players and fans alike.”  Pardoe continued, “By partnering with Deep Eddy Vodka, we are taking the overall fan experience to new heights. Our goal is to create lasting memories for everyone who joins us to witness the magic of our tournaments.”

Deep Eddy Vodka’s alignment with the Professional Pickleball Association follows the brand’s recently launched “Vodka is for Fun” campaign platform.  Building upon the momentum generated by the recent launch, this collaboration reinforces the brand’s commitment to revitalizing the category and infusing a sense of fun and genuine enjoyment into all of its brand pillars.  Teaming up with the PPA allows Deep Eddy to elevate its brand message to a wider audience in an authentic and strategic way.  Together, Deep Eddy Vodka and the PPA are poised to ignite a fresh wave of enthusiasm that celebrates the true spirit of each of the brands.

About Deep Eddy Vodka: Deep Eddy Vodka (70-80 proof), a premium spirits brand based in Austin, Texas, is one of the fastest-growing premium spirits in the United States. An Established Growth Brand according to Beverage Information Group, Deep Eddy Vodka is recognized for its unique production process and incorporation of real, natural ingredients in its flavors. Born in Austin, Deep Eddy Vodka is ten times distilled and handcrafted in small batches using only premium ingredients and real flavors. The company’s line of products include Deep Eddy Original Vodka, Deep Eddy Sweet Tea Vodka, Deep Eddy Ruby Red Vodka, Deep Eddy Cranberry Vodka, Deep Eddy Lemon Vodka, Deep Eddy Peach Vodka, Deep Eddy Orange Vodka, Deep Eddy Lime Vodka, Deep Eddy Vodka Hard Seltzers, and Deep Eddy Vodka Tea Hard Seltzers. More information on the brand can be found at @DeepEddyVodka on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, or at www.deepeddyvodka.com.

About Carvana PPA Tour: The Carvana PPA Tour is the professional tour of pickleball, organizing events and rankings for the top male and female pickleball players worldwide and awarding more than $5.5 million in annual prize money with equal play and pay. The Carvana PPA Tour is set to host 25 events in 2023 at world-class facilities like the Lindner Family Tennis Center in Cincinnati, Mission Hills Country Club in California, and the Darling Tennis Center and Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. Inviting all to compete and “play where the pros play,” the Carvana PPA Tour offers amateur divisions of play for every level, unparalleled experiences for fans and spectators, gorgeous venues, pro player meet-and-greets, food/beverages, live entertainment, VIP upgrades, giveaways and games, shopping, vendors, and more. Founded in 2018 and based in Salt Lake City, the Carvana PPA Tour is owned and operated by parent corporation, Pickleball.com. For more information, go to www.ppatour.com and follow us on social: Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, LinkedIn

MEDIA CONTACT: 
Kaitlynn West 
Heaven Hill Brands
kwest@heavenhill.com 

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Heaven Hill Distillery Celebrates Filling of 10 Millionth Barrel of Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

This historic milestone recognizes the enduring strength of Heaven Hill’s beloved brands.

BARDSTOWN, Ky. (August 2, 2023) – Today Heaven Hill Distillery, the world’s 2nd largest holder of Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, celebrated the filling of its 10 millionth barrel. Company leaders and staff welcomed Governor Andy Beshear, local Bardstown officials and community members for the celebration. Heaven Hill is the only family-owned and led company in the world to achieve this historic milestone.

In light of the 10 millionth barrel, Heaven Hill Co-President Allan Latts expressed his enthusiasm stating, “This is a momentous occasion for Heaven Hill and is a testament to nearly nine decades of distilling excellence. This milestone underscores the unwavering commitment of our employees and shows how beloved our brands are in the hearts of our consumers.”

Executive Chairman Max Shapira’s father and his four uncles, along with a group of Bardstown-area investors, founded “Old Heaven Hill Springs” distillery in 1935, and filled its first barrel on December 13th of that year. As the company grew over the years, it added several acclaimed brands, including Evan Williams, Elijah Craig, Larceny, Henry McKenna and more, which have earned numerous spirits-industry accolades and awards.

Notably, this achievement comes just over a year from the date Heaven Hill broke ground on the Heaven Hill Springs Distillery, marking the company’s return to distilling in Bardstown where it has its roots. The new, state-of-the-art distillery is being built in the heart of the “Bourbon Capital of the World” and is expected to be operational by the end of 2024. Initial production capacity is slated for 150,000 barrels per year, and over time will have the potential to ramp up to 450,000 barrels annually. This will be in addition to the company’s distilling operations at the historic Bernheim Distillery in Louisville, which will continue producing at its full capacity of 450,000 barrels annually.

In the spirit of giving back to the communities where Heaven Hill employees live and work, the company is partnering with 10 local Bardstown and Nelson County-based non-profit organizations and is making donations to support their respective missions. These charitable organizations support a broad range of health, social services and educational needs in the community.

“Bethany Haven is incredibly grateful for Heaven Hill’s unwavering support for this community.  Their dedication to uplifting local non-profits, including ours, has been instrumental in creating a positive impact on the lives of those we serve.  We are honored to stand alongside them in making a lasting difference in Bardstown and Nelson County.” said Treasure Davidson, Bethany Haven Executive Director.

The 10 millionth barrel will be put up to age in historic Rickhouse Y, where it will be displayed amongst Heaven Hill’s other milestone barrels.  Co-President Kate Latts proudly emphasized the significance of the event saying, “This achievement reinforces Heaven Hill’s enduring strength and legacy.  As the only family-owned and led spirits company in the world to reach this incredible milestone, we take great pride in our accomplishment.”

The bourbon industry has been on a long upward trajectory and according to the Kentucky Distillers Association is now an $9 billion state industry, supporting more than 22,500 jobs and generating more than $1.8 million in tax revenues annually.   In addition, Kentucky distilleries produce 95% of the world’s bourbon supply.

“Congratulations to the Shapira family and the entire Heaven Hill team on reaching the incredible milestone of filling their 10 millionth barrel of bourbon!” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “Heaven Hill has long been an industry leader, and I’ve been proud to watch them literally rise from the ashes of the devastating November 1996 fire that took so much. Like our entire bourbon and spirits industry, Heaven Hill has emerged stronger than ever, and I look forward to their continued success.”

Heaven Hill Brands (Heaven Hill) is the largest independent, family-owned and led distilled spirits company in the United States. The company, founded in 1935, is the fifth largest distilled spirits company in the US by volume. Members of the founding family’s second and third generations are now leading the company. With many award- winning brands, Heaven Hill has operated successfully both in good and bad economic times, doubling in size over the last six years.

ABOUT HEAVEN HILL DISTILLERY: Founded in Kentucky by the Shapira family in 1935, Heaven Hill Distillery continues its legacy as one of the foremost American Whiskey producers. Heaven Hill has cultivated the traditions and history of America’s Native Spirit with its fierce independence, passionate family ownership, dedication to quality, and thoughtful innovation. Today, Heaven Hill Distillery maintains over 2 million barrels aging in more than 70 warehouses throughout Nelson and Jefferson Counties. It is home to an award-winning collection of American Whiskeys including Elijah Craig Bourbon, Larceny Bourbon, Evan Williams Bourbon, Pikesville Rye Whiskey, Rittenhouse Rye Whisky, Parker’s Heritage Collection, and Old Fitzgerald along with its extensive Bottled-in-Bond label collection. Heaven Hill Distillery currently holds the title of 2023 Whisky Magazine Distillery of the Year and 2023 World’s Best Small Batch Bourbon from the Icons of Whisky, as well as the 2022 Large Spirits Producer of the Year from the Ascot Awards. Heaven Hill Distillery held the title of 2020 Whisky Advocate Whisky of the Year, the second Whisky of the Year for Heaven Hill Distillery in the past four years. In 2019 Heaven Hill Distillery was named San Francisco World Spirits Competition Distillery of the Year, Best in Show Whisky, and previously held the titles of 2018 San Francisco Spirits Word Spirits Competition Best Bourbon, 2016 Whisky Magazine Distillery of the Year. For more information, please visit www.heavenhilldistillery.com.

MEDIA CONTACT: 
Kaitlynn West 
Heaven Hill Distillery 
kwest@heavenhill.com 

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Heaven Hill Brands announces $800,000 investment in Louisville’s West End neighborhoods 

Company’s “Spirited Neighbor Initiative” focused on pillars of education, mental health and economic development

Heaven Hill Brands detailed plans today to invest $800,000 in the California neighborhood in West Louisville, where the company operates the Bernheim Distillery at 1701 W. Breckenridge Street. The company’s “Spirited Neighbor Initiative,” consists of long-term investments in non-profit partnerships and public organizations that support the community in areas of education, mental health and economic development, and more broadly across a number of critical areas.

“Heaven Hill is committed to being the best neighbor we can in the communities where we work and live, and Louisville’s California neighborhood has been our distilling home for nearly 25 years,” said Allan Latts, co-president of Heaven Hill Brands. “We’re working with some key organizations that make up the fabric of the West End community to support a sustainable, thriving California neighborhood now and for future generations.”

Heaven Hill Brands is implementing a five-year $500,000 investment with local non-profit organizations as part of the Spirited Neighbor Initiative. Funds will be allocated to a select number of community organizations that apply for assistance through Heaven Hill’s new formalized grant program, in addition to the following long-term partners.

  • Change Today Change Tomorrow which provides services devoted to eradicating the barriers to food justice and public health that plague Louisville’s Black and other marginalized communities;
     
  • Neighborhood House which provides opportunities ranging from child development to senior programming for families in West Louisville;
     
  • AMPED which provides music education, business services and technology workforce training to create self-sufficiency, economic mobility and equity among the city’s Black and brown communities;
     
  • Louisville Central Community Center which provides programs ranging from early childhood education to adult job training and money management to advance equity among Louisville’s West End families; and
     
  • West End School which provides a rigorous education, character development and family support to pre-K through 8th grade boys, and offers housing to alumni who attend area high schools.

“It’s critical that our efforts as a Spirited Neighbor are designed to address each community’s specific needs,” said Kate Latts, co-president of Heaven Hill Brands. “Initiatives to support education, mental health and economic development are three critical areas where we believe our assistance will be the most impactful.”

The company conducted surveys of employees and neighbors and engaged in community discussions to develop the plan.

“The passion that my dad, Max Shapira, has for the business quickly became ingrained in me, and this includes valuing and supporting the communities in which you operate your business,” she said.

Heaven Hill Brands is also taking steps to enhance the infrastructure of the California neighborhood, including granting $250,000 to Louisville MSD to support sewer system improvements. MSD has identified a number of catch basins in the area that were not built with traps that are essential to preventing sewer odors from escaping. Heaven Hill’s grant will allow MSD to replace many of those with new, trapped catch basins and address many of the identified concerns.

“Heaven Hill has been an important corporate citizen to this community and we greatly appreciate their partnering with us in this work,” said Tony Parrott, MSD executive director. “MSD’s ongoing efforts to minimize sewer odors across Louisville have resulted in investing $16.5 million in West Louisville alone to rehabilitate the sewer line under Maple Street and replace catch basins. As we continuously balance our budget against the needs of maintaining our wastewater, stormwater and flood-protection system across the community, the Heaven Hill grant will allow us to replace even more catch basins here in the California neighborhood.”

Additionally, the company is demolishing an unused building on the Bernheim Distillery property, beginning in August, to make way for future enhancements to the production process. They are also establishing concurrent ‘beautification’ efforts which include a $50,000 investment to plant new trees and shrubs along the roadway and at Perry Elementary, in partnership with Metro Parks.

For more information on Heaven Hill’s Spirited Neighbor Initiative, visit spiritedneighbor.com.

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About Heaven Hill Brands
Founded in 1935, Heaven Hill Brands (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and led spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes Evan Williams, Elijah Craig, Larceny, and Henry McKenna Bourbons; Rittenhouse Rye Whisky; Deep Eddy Vodka; Admiral Nelson’s Rum; Black Velvet Canadian Whisky; Lunazul Tequila; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; Carolans Irish Cream Liqueur, plus the newly-acquired Samson & Surrey portfolio.

Contact:

Kaitlynn West

kwest@heavenhill.com

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Heaven Hill Takes Home Top Honors in Ultimate Spirits Challenge Awards, ASCOT Awards, San Francisco World Spirits Competition and Bartender Spirits Awards

Heaven Hill and Samson & Surrey brands shine bright on the international stage

BARDSTOWN, Ky. (June 30, 2023) – Heaven Hill Brands is honored to have received multiple category wins in recent awards competitions. Newly announced results from the Ultimate Spirits Challenge, ASCOT Awards, San Francisco World Spirits Competition and Bartender Spirits Awards prove Heaven Hill’s portfolio stands strong when stacked up against competition from around the globe.

Heaven Hill received multiple Chairman’s Trophies in this year’s Ultimate Spirits Challenge along with more than 30 other brands receiving the coveted recognition of 90 points or higher. Henry McKenna 10-Year-Old Single Barrel Bottled-In-Bond, Carolans Salted Caramel Irish Cream Liqueur, PAMA Mandarin Orange Pomegranate Seltzer and Tequila Ocho Añejo each received the highest honor of Chairman’s Trophy. The Ultimate Spirits Challenge recognizes and promotes the unmatched quality of spirits across the globe. Their esteemed panel of judges invoke innovative, exacting methodology through rigorous judging to determine the highest-rated products, and award coveted citations of excellence.

After several hours of critical judging, Heaven Hill was awarded several top prizes in the 2023 ASCOT Awards. The awards included Best Special Barrel-Finished Bourbon for Parker’s Heritage Collection 16th Double Barreled Blend, Best Wheated Bourbon for Larceny Barrel Proof A123, Best Canadian Whisky for Black Velvet, Best Whiskey Club Barrel Pick for Naptown Bourbon Club’s Elijah Craig Single Barrel.  Importantly, Larceny Barrel Proof A123 is still in the running for overall Best Straight Bourbon. In addition to these category wins, Heaven Hill received 10 Double Platinum awards, 15 Platinum awards and 19 Gold awards. The international spirits competition was created by Fred Minnick, spirits personality and a veteran tasting judge, to provide a unique opportunity for distillers to have their products recognized through Minnick’s media channels.

Across the portfolio, Heaven Hill also took home several medals from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. The Competition was founded in 2000 and has become a premiere tasting competition judging more than 3,000 spirits this year. William Heavenhill 9th Edition Bourbon was awarded the high honor of Best of Class in the Straight Bourbon category. Also receiving category finalist designation was Tequila Ocho Reposado for Best Reposado Tequila and Elijah Craig 18-Year-Old Single Barrel Bourbon for Best Single Barrel Bourbon – 11 years and older. Rittenhouse received Platinum distinction for three consecutive years as a Double Gold winner. Eleven Heaven Hill products also received Double Gold status at this year’s awards.  

“We’re incredibly proud of these wins across multiple categories in the Heaven Hill and Samson & Surrey portfolios,” said Heaven Hill Chief Marketing Officer Matt Blevins. “While we certainly enjoy the recognition of our brands, it is a nod to the passion of our teams who bring these products to market which gives us the most satisfaction. They deserve all the credit.”

Lastly, Heaven Hill is honored to take home the Grand World Whisky of the Year prize in this year’s Bartender Spirits Awards for Heaven Hill Bottled-In-Bond. This recognition is especially great because of the competition’s judging panel consisting of some of the most renowned names in the U.S. bar industry, all of them with extensive expertise within the on-premise industry. When speaking about Heaven Hill Bottled-In-Bond, judges remarked, “Its unrivaled flavors and unmatched quality have made it a favorite among whisky enthusiasts worldwide.” Heaven Hill is also proud to receive a dozen Gold awards for other members of the portfolio along with this top prize.

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 led spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes Evan Williams, Elijah Craig, Larceny, and Henry McKenna Bourbons; Rittenhouse Rye Whisky; Deep Eddy Vodka; Admiral Nelson’s Rum; Black Velvet Canadian Whisky; Lunazul Tequila; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; Carolans Irish Cream Liqueur, plus the newly-acquired Samson & Surrey portfolio. 

MEDIA CONTACT:

Kaitlynn West 
kwest@heavenhill.com 

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ELIJAH CRAIG BOURBON TO HOST FOURTH ANNUAL OLD FASHIONED WEEK

Elijah Craig’s Annual Cocktail Celebration Returns October 13-22, 2023 Nationwide, Donating $1 of Every Old Fashioned Sold at Participating Bars to Southern Smoke Foundation

BARDSTOWN, KY (June 14, 2023)—Elijah Craig Bourbon is pleased to announce its fourth annual Old Fashioned Week, a ten-day celebration taking place at participating bars around the country from October 13-22, bringing delight, inspiration, and creativity to the classic cocktail’s New Era while supporting the hospitality community nationwide. This year, Elijah Craig has pledged to donate $1 for every Elijah Craig Old Fashioned sold at participating bars, up to $100,000, to the Southern Smoke Foundation, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to providing emergency support, relief, and mental health assistance to those in the food and beverage industry. Participating bars will be added on a rolling basis, and will be searchable–via a map of participating bars near any given zip code–on the “Find a Bar” widget on the website, launching in August.

Elijah Craig first launched Old Fashioned Week in 2020 to support the food and beverage industry in a moment of crisis. Over the past three years, donations of more than $300,000 have been given to Restaurant Workers’ Community Foundation and Southern Smoke Foundation. Elijah Craig is proud to continue hosting Old Fashioned Week in 2023, and support Southern Smoke in directly benefiting the bar and restaurant community. In 2022, Old Fashioned Week more than doubled participation with over 4,100 bars featuring Elijah Craig Old Fashioned riffs on their drink menus.

Old Fashioned Week is once again led by National Heaven Hill Portfolio Mixologist and Old Fashioned Week Host Lynn House.

“Old Fashioned Week is my favorite time to be a part of this community and we are really looking forward to upping the ante this year,” said House. “Each Old Fashioned Week brings together more tastemakers in the community, adds a healthy dose of competition, and benefits a great cause dedicated to the hospitality industry.” 

In 2022, Old Fashioned Week raised $100,000 to benefit Southern Smoke Foundation, and directly impact members of the food and beverage industry. That October, with the help from Elijah Craig’s donation, Southern Smoke Foundation provided more than 80 no-cost mental health counseling sessions to industry workers nationwide through their mental health program, Behind You, and distributed $109,775 in emergency relief grants to workers affected by crises including natural disasters; the Jackson, Mississippi water crisis; and other unforeseen events. 

“Restaurant and bar workers, farmers, distillers and other food and beverage workers across the country need our support, whether they’re in crisis or want to address their mental health,” said Southern Smoke Founder Chris Shepherd. “Old Fashioned Week is a great way to give back to those individuals while raising a glass in celebration of the industry that we love. I’m grateful to Elijah Craig for getting behind Southern Smoke Foundation as we take care of our own. Cheers to a great Old Fashioned Week!”

In addition to the ten-day celebration of the cocktail, Elijah Craig invites bartenders to submit their most exciting riffs on the Old Fashioned in a nationwide competition to name the ultimate innovators of the classic cocktail. Entries will be accepted from August 1-October 31, with additional details and submission guidelines to be announced soon.

The Old Fashioned is the only whiskey-based cocktail to grow in popularity since 2019, with market research indicating that a super premium whiskey is of the utmost importance to the drink’s makeup. During Old Fashioned Week, thousands of bars across the country offer a riff (or two or three…) on an Elijah Craig Old Fashioned. Once launched, guests are invited to use Old Fashioned Week’s “Find A Bar” tool to locate participating bars in their neighborhood and partake in the festivities. 

Elijah Craig will kick off the festivities with a media-only preview of Old Fashioned Week hosted by Spirited Award winner Lynn House at the 21st annual Tales of the Cocktail on Tuesday, July 25 from 1:30pm to 3:00pm. 

For more information on Elijah Craig, Heaven Hill Distillery, and Old Fashioned Week, please visit https://elijahcraig.com/, https://heavenhilldistillery.com/, and follow along on Instagram @elijahcraig. 

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ABOUT ELIJAH CRAIG BOURBON: Known as “The Father of Bourbon,” Elijah Craig is credited with being the first distiller to age his wares in charred oak barrels to make Bourbon. The clear, unaged corn whiskey became transformed into a bold amber liquid with a distinctively smooth flavor that makes Bourbon what it is. Today, Elijah Craig’s community impact continues through Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week, providing total donations of up to $300,000 to date to organizations supporting the hospitality industry. Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and led distillery and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon, the Elijah Craig lineup includes: Elijah Craig Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Elijah Craig Straight Rye Whiskey, Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, and Elijah Craig 18-Year-Old Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Elijah Craig’s accolades have included Whisky Advocate’s Whisky of the Year, Best Small Batch Bourbon and Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and World’s Best Small Batch Bourbon and Best Kentucky Small Batch Bourbon at Whisky Magazine’s 2023 World Whiskies Awards. For more information, please visit www.elijahcraig.com. Heaven Hill reminds you to “Think Wisely. Drink Wisely.”

ABOUT SOUTHERN SMOKE FOUNDATION: Created in 2015 by Chef Chris Shepherd, Southern Smoke Foundation supports members of the food and beverage industry nationwide through emergency relief funding and access to mental health care. Since its founding, the 501c3 nonprofit has distributed more than $10.6 million to food and beverage industry workers in crisis across America. Simply put, we “take care of our own.” To learn more, please visit https://southernsmoke.org.

Media Inquiries: 

Heaven Hill

Kaitlynn West – kwest@heavenhill.com

Foxglove Communications

Samantha Walla – samantha@foxglovecommunications.com

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Heaven Hill Distillery Launches Square 6 Wheated Bourbon

Heaven Hill announced the launch of Square 6 Wheated Bourbon, the latest innovative product to come from the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience. This is the third Square 6 product produced exclusively at the artisanal distillery located at 528 W Main Street in Louisville, just steps from the site of Williams’ original distillery founded in 1783.

The Square 6 Wheated Bourbon is comprised of two distinct Wheated Bourbon mashbills which were carefully blended post-aging. The first mashbill consists of 74% Corn, 16% Wheat, and 10% Malted Barley, and the second mashbill consists of 68% Corn, 20% Wheat, and 12% Malted Barley. Unlike its predecessors in the Square 6 line which were bottled at 95 proof, the Square 6 Wheated Bourbon has been bottled at 105 proof, which further highlights the wheated taste profile.

With initial aromas of caramel, vanilla, figs, bing cherries and oak, the Square 6 Wheated Bourbon follows with tasting notes of sweet confectioners’ sugar and walnuts on the palate. The finish boasts of walnuts, oak tannins, baking spices cinnamon and cola. Artisanal Distiller Jodie Filiatreau and team distill one barrel of American Whiskey per day at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience and is continually crafting innovative mashbills and tweaking the hand-crafted pot still process for each new recipe.

“Blending two Wheated Bourbon mashbills gives Square 6 Wheated Bourbon a completely unique taste which differentiates it from others in the market,” says Filiatreau. “We are excited for fans of the Square 6 line to try this latest release and we hope Wheated Bourbon lovers will want to add this to their collections as well.”

The initial release of the Square 6 series in May 2021 featured a new mashbill for Heaven Hill, a High Rye Bourbon consisting of 52% corn, 35% rye and 13% malted barley. In October of 2022, the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience released the Square 6 High-Rye Rye Whiskey featuring a mashbill consisting of 51% Rye, 35% Corn and 14% Malted Barley. The continuation of the Evan Williams Square 6 series distilled in the one barrel per day, hand crafted, copper pot still facility is a testament to Heaven Hill’s commitment to quality, craft, innovation, and tradition.

The limited release of Square 6 Wheated Bourbon will be available in small quantities as a unique offering at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience and available at select Kentucky retailers for a suggested retail price of $89.99.

 ABOUT THE EVAN WILLIAMS BOURBON EXPERIENCE: The Evan Williams Bourbon Experience® (www.EvanWilliamsBourbonExperience.com) celebrates the legacy of Evan Williams, Kentucky’s first commercial distiller, through an immersive visitor’s center experience which brings to life the history and tradition of Kentucky’s native spirit. An official stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®, the facility offers guests a historical glimpse back in time to see Evan Williams’ original distillery through high-definition video recreations of the Louisville wharf and Main Street in the late 18th Century, plus recreations of Whiskey Row building facades along Main Street from the 1890’s through the present. Meanwhile, visitors learn the essential differences between distilling during Evan Williams’ era and Heaven Hill Distillery’s modern Bernheim Distillery operations.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Kaitlynn West

kwest@heavenhill.com

IMAGES: Download here.

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PGA of America Announces Elijah Craig as Official Bourbon and Rye Whiskey

New partnership will elevate the championship experience

The PGA of America and Elijah Craig Bourbon announced today a multi-year partnership that makes Elijah Craig the “Official Bourbon” and whiskey supplier of the PGA of America, PGA Championship, KPMG Women’s PGA Championship, and an official partner of the PGA National Club Championship.

“We are proud to welcome Elijah Craig as the official bourbon and whiskey supplier of the PGA of America,” said PGA of America Senior Director, Partnership Strategy & Management Luke Reissman. “The combination of championship golf and Elijah Craig’s distinct flavor profile is a perfect match. With its unparalleled taste and quality, Elijah Craig undoubtedly enhances the spectator experience at our championships.”

The Elijah Craig Bourbon Speakeasy will provide spectators at the PGA Championship at Oak Hill with a spectacular setting to savor hand-crafted cocktails, including the distinctive warm spice and smooth flavor of Elijah Craig Small Batch, while also enjoying an interactive signature wall and stunning views of the golf course’s 12th hole.

Spectators will be able to enjoy Elijah Craig’s signature cocktail, the “Oak Hill Old Fashioned,” which features an oak-forward twist to the classic old fashioned. Elijah Craig’s award-winning bourbon and rye whiskey will also be available at concessions and hospitality areas across the PGA Championship.

“When you see a great golf swing or sip an expertly crafted Bourbon, you can appreciate the years of patience and perseverance required to arrive at that moment. Elijah Craig is thrilled to partner with an organization of such unmatched reputation and membership,” said Max Stefka, Elijah Craig Group Product Director. “Together, Elijah Craig and the PGA of America look forward to celebrating wins big and small with golf supporters everywhere over a glass of Elijah Craig Bourbon.”

Team Elijah Craig continues to leave its mark on the golf world as “The Official Bourbon” of PGA Tour Professional Golfer Max Homa and sports broadcaster Amanda Balionis Renner. Now spectators will experience Elijah Craig through a prominent digital media presence across the PGA of America’s social and digital channels including custom content, run-of-site media and authentic integration on the Championship’s social platforms, which will allow the brand to engage with new supporters in meaningful ways.

The 2023 PGA Championship returns to the iconic Oak Hill Country Club, East Course, in Rochester, New York for the 105th edition, May 15-21.

The 2023 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship will be held June 21-25 on the Lower Course at historic Baltusrol Golf Club in Springfield, New Jersey for the 69th edition.

The 2023 PGA National Club Championship features amateur club champions from across the country and will be hosted at Troon North Golf Club and The Westin Kierland Golf Club in Scottsdale, Arizona, this December.

About PGA of America

The PGA of America is one of the world’s largest sports organizations, composed of nearly 28,000 PGA Professionals who work daily to grow interest and inclusion in the game of golf. For more information about the PGA of America, visit PGA.com and follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

About Elijah Craig Bourbon

Known as “The Father of Bourbon,” Elijah Craig is credited with being the first distiller to age his wares in charred oak barrels to make Bourbon. The clear, unaged corn whiskey became transformed into a bold amber liquid with a distinctively smooth flavor that makes Bourbon what it is. Today, Elijah Craig’s community impact continues through Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week, providing total donations of up to $300,000 to date to organizations supporting the hospitality industry. Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and led distillery and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon, the Elijah Craig lineup includes: Elijah Craig Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Elijah Craig Straight Rye Whiskey, Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, and Elijah Craig 18-Year-Old Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Elijah Craig’s accolades have included Whisky Advocate’s Whisky of the Year, Best Small Batch Bourbon and Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and World’s Best Small Batch Bourbon and Best Kentucky Small Batch Bourbon at Whisky Magazine’s 2023 World Whiskies Awards. For more information, please visit www.elijahcraig.com. Heaven Hill reminds you to “Think Wisely. Drink Wisely.

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Heaven Hill Brands Announces Launch of Carolans Peanut Butter

Peanut Butter brings a new, nutty twist on the classic Carolans Irish Cream enjoyed since 1978

Carolans Irish Cream, the second largest Irish Cream Liqueur, today launched its latest line extension Carolans Peanut Butter just in time for National Peanut Butter Day. The nutty, creamy flavor is mixed with original Carolans Irish Cream for a rich and delicious combination that is sure to satisfy any consumer’s peanut butter cravings.

Made with premium ingredients such as farm fresh Irish cream, premium Irish whiskey and naturally harvested honey, Carolans Peanut Butter brings a new flavor experience to an already award-winning brand. At 34 proof, with a rich, peanut butter taste and notes of honey sweetness, Carolans Peanut Butter is a superior sipper on its own, over ice, mixed in coffee or in a cocktail. Carolans Peanut Butter also builds on the success of Carolans Cold Brew and Carolans Salted Caramel as the third line extension to the family.

“We are excited to launch Peanut Butter as our latest Carolans Irish Cream extension. Peanut butter has proven to be consumer-favorite flavor and we know that it will pair perfectly with the rich, smooth taste of Carolans Irish Cream,” says MaryCrae Brotzge, Heaven Hill Brands Senior Brand Manager. “Coming off the boom of Irish Cream Whiskies over the past two years, now is the perfect time to deliver a new flavor profile under this successful brand.”

Carolans Peanut Butter will be supported in trade media and retail point-of-sale with a tagline encouraging consumers to “Enjoy Every Sip”. Carolans Peanut Butter will be available initially in the United States only beginning February 2023. The suggested retail price is $14.99 per 750ml bottle.

Check out these recommended recipes from Carolans Peanut Butter:

NUTTY IRISHMAN

1½ oz. Carolans Peanut Butter

1½ oz. Hazelnut Liqueur

Rim a shot glass with chocolate syrup and crushed peanut butter cups. Combine ingredients in a shaker with ice and shake. Strain into rimmed shot glass.

BOOZY PEANUT BUTTER MILKSHAKE

 2 oz. Carolans Peanut Butter

 2 Scoops Vanilla Ice Cream

2 oz. Milk

1 ½ oz. Vodka

Blend all ingredients until smooth. Garnish with whipped cream and a peanut butter cup or drizzle.

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Heaven Hill Distillery Announces 2022 Parker’s Heritage Collection Limited Edition Bottling

16th edition of the annual ultra-premium release is made up of two different ages of Bourbons, one of which has been double barreled, and then masterfully blended together post aging.

Heaven Hill Distillery announced today the release of the 16th edition of the Parker’s Heritage Collection, featuring a Double Barreled Blend Bourbon. The 16th Edition of the Parker’s Heritage Collection is an allocated product and will be available nationally and internationally in limited quantities at the suggested retail price of $174.99. A portion of the proceeds will continue to support ALS research and patient care in honor of Parker Beam, Master Distiller Emeritus, with more than $1 million contributed across the Parker’s Heritage Collection since 2013.

This edition consists of 67% 13-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey that has been double barreled for four weeks and then blended post aging with 33% 15-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. The 13-year-old Bourbon, from barrels produced in December 2008, was aged on the 5th-7th floors of Rickhouse Q and then re-barreled into new American white oak barrels with a level three char for four weeks. Then, it was later blended with 15-year-old Bourbon from barrels produced in January 2007 aged on the 2nd and 5th floors of Rickhouse II. The unique, bold flavor profile is balanced by the double barreled 13-year-old Bourbon, bringing out even more oak and spice notes from the barrel, with the 15-year-old Bourbon rounding out the older aged mouthfeel. At bottling, the liquid was uncut and non-chill filtered to preserve the complex flavors. This edition leads with an oak forward nose and hints of butterscotch and caramel, and once tasted is followed by a balance of spice notes, sweetness and slight oak tannins. The finish is long and warm with elements of dark chocolate, baking spices and white pepper. The mashbill for this edition is comprised of Heaven Hill Distillery’s traditional Bourbon mashbill 78% corn, 10% rye and 12% malted barley and ultimately bottled at barrel proof 132.2 or 66.1% alcohol by volume.

“The Parker’s Heritage Collection is a testament to the distilling legacy at Heaven Hill Distillery and the continued thirst for innovation which has driven generations of master distillers,” said Susan Wahl, Vice President, American Whiskey at Heaven Hill. “This Double Barreled Blend Bourbon is a masterful pairing of two uniquely aged products that create the perfect balance of flavors which, we believe, honor the past and are a fitting tribute to Parker and his legacy.”

The late Heaven Hill Master Distiller Parker Beam, for whom the acclaimed series is named, was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (also called ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease) in 2010. The past nine editions from 2013-2021, including the “Promise of Hope” Bourbon, the “Original Batch” Straight Wheat Whiskey, the Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey, the 24-Year-Old Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon, the 11-Year-Old Single Barrel, Orange Curaçao-finished Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Heavy Char Rye Whiskey, Heavy Char Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, and the Heavy Char Wheat Whiskey respectively, have raised more than one million dollars toward ALS research and patient care through contributions made by Heaven Hill for each bottle purchased. With the 2022 Double Barreled Blend edition, Heaven Hill will again contribute a portion of the proceeds from each bottle sold to the ALS Association.

Packaged in the same upscale 750ml bottle as the previous fifteen editions, but with an eggplant-colored label, the newest Parker’s Heritage Collection is available in a three-bottle case and will arrive at retail locations starting in early December. With previous releases having won multiple awards from Whisky Advocate magazine, Whisky Magazine and the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, the series stands 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.”

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Heaven Hill names Matt Blevins Chief Marketing Officer

Blevins brings 20+ years of global industry experience and leadership

Heaven Hill today announced the appointment of Matt Blevins as Chief Marketing Officer. Effective October 24, Blevins will assume the role previously held by now Co-President Kate Latts. A 20-year global spirits industry leader, Blevins’ demonstrated expertise in business growth, brand marketing, and team development will continue to elevate Heaven Hill’s strategic growth plan and diverse, award-winning portfolio of brands.

Blevins is a proven marketing leader in the industry, guiding global, historic brands to achieve distinct positioning, creative innovation, and long-term value growth. With almost 20 years on the Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey portfolio, Blevins’ experience growing an inspiring portfolio of brands includes leading the brand as it became the most valuable global spirits trademark in 2021. With a people-first leadership style, Blevins delivers both demonstrated business results and thoughtful team development.

“Matt’s passion and dedication to his teams, as well as his brands, is evident throughout his successful career. He leads by example and grows teams who deliver consistent results,” said Kate Latts, Heaven Hill Co-President. “We are excited to continue to build our strong, innovative leadership team by adding Matt’s unique skill set to further our accelerated growth. I’m excited to work collaboratively with Matt to continue the enduring legacy of our brands.”

Before joining Brown-Forman in 2005, Blevins held business analyst roles across numerous retail and consumer package goods brands. After serving in senior roles across the Jack Daniel’s brand, Blevins most recently served as Vice President, Global Brand Director Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey. He oversaw many aspects of global brand marketing from positioning, packaging, pricing, and promotion. By leading external agencies and a significant global community of marketers, Blevins created impact and influence across key areas to drive long-term success.

“I could not be more excited to join Heaven Hill at this important phase in the company’s growth journey. Heaven Hill’s portfolio of brands offers a wide range of consumer connections across beverage alcohol occasions with authentic stories, quality products, and family ownership that is invested in the long term,” said Blevins. “The Heaven Hill team is clearly passionate about their business and brands, and I look forward to partnering with them on all the exciting initiatives in the near and long term.”

Blevins resides in Louisville, Ky. with his wife Catherine and two children. He has a B.S. in Economics from Centre College where he was a Division III athlete on their basketball team and now serves on the President’s Alumni Council. Blevins also has a Masters of Applied Economics from University of Cincinnati. Blevins is passionate about many nonprofit causes in the community including Fund for the Arts, Urban League, and Kentucky Cancer Link.