Announcements – Page 5

20th May 202129th June 2021

Heaven Hill Brands Bartender of the Year Program Launches Craft Meets Community Initiative for 2021

New 2021 initiative focuses beyond the bar to elevate community, advocacy, and education

Heaven Hill Brands today announced the Craft Meets Community Initiative (CMCI), an extension of its Bartender of the Year program, developed to provide greater access industry-wide to education, mentorship, and leadership engagement opportunities. CMCI will replace the typical competition structure and serve as the 2021 Bartender of the Year Program. The initiative features a digital educational and support platform that will be structured through four educational tracks led by industry experts and is open to all hospitality professionals. The CMCI program will also award one individual within each track $5,000 to support a personal community-based project along with support from an industry expert as a one-on-one mentor. Registrations for all educational tracks open today at https://bartenderoftheyear.liquor.com/, with rolling deadlines over the next several months (full timeline below).

Drawing inspiration from the honest discussions and pivots made across the industry in the past year, the CMCI program will include four educational tracks focused on the following topics: education, mentorship and development; health and wellness; environmental impact and sustainability; and diversity, equity and serving the underserved. Each track will kick off with an educational seminar followed by an interactive workshop open to all registrants. Participants are also invited to apply for the optional CMCI Award Program, which will provide four individuals one-on-one mentoring from an industry expert and $5,000 to fund their community-based project rooted in one of the four educational topics. In the spirit of the craft, each CMCI submission will also include a cocktail component tied to the sponsoring brands.

“The ‘Craft Meets Community Initiative’ launched by Bartender of the Year extends our 2020 focus of support and advocacy over traditional competition. This program is designed for industry members who are passionate about hospitality and community and who are eager to learn and grow in their career,” said Hannah Venhoff, Group Product Director, Heaven Hill Brands. “Whether you’re just starting out in the industry, jumping back in, or an award-winning beverage manager, we are inviting everyone to connect, engage and inspire action, all at the level that best supports your personal journey right now.”

The four educational tracks and submission process will follow the below schedule, with registration open throughout the process:

Educational Track	Description	Sponsoring Brands	Seminar	Workshop	Project Submission Deadline
Sustainability & The Environment	This track will focus on ways that environmental degradation is a threat to individuals and communities, and how we can make choices that are beneficial to our world.	Sacred Bond Brandy, Rittenhouse Rye Whiskey	6/22	6/29	7/20
Education & Mentorship	This track will focus on knowledge and skills that serve and uplift individuals and communities through training and discussion around opportunities for growth and development for all bar professionals.	Elijah Craig Bourbon, Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur	7/6	7/13	8/3
Equity & Diversity	This track will focus on celebrating diversity, ways to provide community support, and opportunities to create equal access to resources and professional development.	PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur, Lunazul Tequila	7/20	7/27	8/17
Health & Wellness	This track will focus on ways that our physical and mental health are of paramount importance, and how we can take action to foster healthy living both physically and mentally.	Dubonnet Rouge Aperitif, Deep Eddy Vodka	8/3	8/9	8/30

Heaven Hill Brands’ Bartender of the Year program has supported the growth, education and awareness of the hospitality community since 2016. The Class of 2020 Finalists received a combined $40,000 to be split between each after the competition pivoted midway through the reginal semifinals tour to a virtual format. All eight joined the ranks of esteemed past winters: Justin Ware in 2019, Harrison Ginsberg in 2018, Nathan O’Neill in 2017, and Abigail Gullo who won the inaugural competition in 2016. Visit the official competition website at http://www.bartenderoftheyear.liquor.com for complete competition details.

ABOUT HEAVEN HILL BRANDS: Founded in 1935, Bardstown, KY -based Heaven Hill Brands (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes Evan Williams, Elijah Craig, Larceny, and Henry McKenna Bourbons; Rittenhouse Rye Whisky; Deep Eddy and Burnett’s Vodkas; Admiral Nelson’s and Blackheart Rums; Black Velvet Canadian Whisky; Lunazul Tequila; The Christian Brothers Brandies; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; Carolans Irish Cream Liqueur; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur.

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MEDIA CONTACT:

Lauren Cherry
Heaven Hill Brands
lcherry@heavenhill.com

Download images for this release here.

13th May 202129th June 2021

Carolans Irish Cream Launches Carolans Cold Brew

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Carolans Irish Cream, the second largest Irish Cream Liqueur, launched Carolans Cold Brew. Smooth, cold brew coffee flavor is mixed with original Carolans Irish Cream for a rich and delicious combination that capitalizes on a hot consumer trend.

With a foundational flavor of the finest Irish Whiskey blended with farm fresh cream and naturally harvested honey, Carolans Cold Brew offers a new flavor experience to the award-winning brand. At 34 proof with a rich, coffee taste and notes of chocolate, Carolans Cold Brew is a superior sipper on its own, over ice, mixed in coffee or in a cocktail. One in four consumers mixes Irish Cream with coffee, according to Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, and the Cold Brew beverage category itself is growing at double digits, making Carolans Cold Brew poised for a tremendous launch. Carolans Cold Brew also builds on the success of Carolans Salted Caramel as the second line extension to the family.

“Carolans Cold Brew is deliciously fun from the first sip. Crafted from the Original Carolans Irish Cream base, the cold brew flavor delivers a new depth of flavor experience that will delight existing fans and newcomers alike,” said Hannah Venhoff, Heaven Hill Brands Group Product Director. “As the second largest Irish Cream, we are consistently seeking to amplify Carolans through consumer relevant innovation that builds upon a strong portfolio and offers consumers new opportunities to make new memories with Carolans.”

Carolans Cold Brew will be supported in trade media and retail point-of-sale with a tagline encouraging consumers to “Pour. Sip. Chill.” Carolans Cold Brew will be available nationwide beginning May 2021. The suggested retail price is $15.99/750ml bottle.

Grab a mug to sit back and chill with these recommended recipes from Carolans Cold Brew:

COLD BREW MARTINI

1½ oz. Carolans Cold Brew

1½ oz. Vodka

1 oz. Espresso

Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice and shake until chilled and frothy. Serve up in a coupe or cocktail glass and garnish with coffee beans.

SOME LIKE IT HOT

1½ oz. Carolans Cold Brew

1 oz. Brandy

5 oz. Hot Coffee

Build and serve in a coffee cup. Top with cream if desired.

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MEDIA CONTACT:

Holli Koster
Heaven Hill Brands
hkoster@heavenhill.com

To download images from this release, click here.

17th February 202117th February 2021

Austin Relief Efforts – Deep Eddy Vodka Partners with Local Restaurants, Local Business Partners

AUSTIN, Texas – Deep Eddy Vodka is coordinating local relief efforts to provide Austin residents with warm meals. As of February 17, Deep Eddy Vodka, Kendra Scott, Red Bull and Ranch Rider have committed $30,000+ to the support the Austin community. Deep Eddy Vodka Instagram, @deepeddyvodka, will continue to make updates on relief efforts throughout the coming days.

The following Austin-based restaurants will be providing warm meals throughout today and tomorrow. Austin residents should check respective social media accounts for opening times and updates:

Southside Flying Pizza

Lil’Doddy

Old Thousand

The Well

Chilantro

Southside Pizza

Papa Jacks

China Harbor

OMGSquee

Dell Seton UT

For businesses or restaurants interested in joining these relief efforts, please contact Jennie Wait at jwait@deepeddyvodka.com.

About Deep Eddy Vodka

Deep Eddy Vodka (70-80 proof), a premium spirits company based in Austin, Texas, is The Spirits Business 2017 Brand Champion for Vodka. As a recipient of the Impact Hot Brand Award for two straight years and Beverage Information Group Growth Brand Award each of the past three years, Deep Eddy Vodka is recognized for its unique production process and incorporation of real, natural ingredients in its flavors. Born in Austin Tx., Deep Eddy Vodka is ten times distilled and handcrafted in small batches using only premium ingredients. 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 and Deep Eddy Lime Vodka. Deep Eddy Vodka is available in stores in all 50 states. More information on the company can be found at @DeepEddyVodka on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, or at www.deepeddyvodka.com.

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Lauren Cherry
lcherry@heavenhill.com

20th January 202120th January 2021

Heaven Hill Brands Introduces Environmental Sustainability Strategy for Next Decade

Largest Independent, Family-Owned and Operated Distilled Spirits Supplier Identifies Four Key Areas to Cultivate Sustainable, Thriving Communities

Heaven Hill Brands announced today the company’s first official environmental sustainability strategy that addresses pressing environmental challenges within the industry and local communities in four key areas: water, emissions, waste, and conservation. As a leader in the industry since 1935, Heaven Hill’s success has been built on a commitment to integrity in the communities where employees work and live. These specific efforts set the course for continued resiliency, both a hallmark of Heaven Hill’s 85-year history and a guiding concept for the future.

“Heaven Hill has always strived to be a good partner in our communities and to be a good steward of the natural resources used to create our products,” said Rachel Nally, Heaven Hill Brands Manager of Environment & Sustainability. “Cultivating sustainable and thriving communities is important for our employees, our partners, and our neighbors. We are passionate about this next era in our commitment to responsibly use natural resources, reduce energy use, safely dispose waste, and conserve the ecosystems that support our business.”

The following goals were developed with a focus on science-based research, international climate standards, and internal expertise, and have been deemed necessary to achieve by 2030:

Use water more efficiently by improving water use efficiency by 15%
Drive toward zero carbon emissions by reducing carbon emissions from operations by 30%
Reduce waste by eliminating 10% of waste generated by operations, reducing virgin plastic in bottles by 50%, and working towards zero waste visitor experiences
Conserve the ecosystems that support the business by sponsoring planting of 5,000 trees of substantial size in local communities, supporting sustainable white oak supply, and supporting sustainable agriculture

Significant investments in these efforts across production, new technology and training initiatives are currently underway. A legacy of good stewardship of natural resources to create Heaven Hill’s products sets the runway for this future growth. Heaven Hill has implemented a variety of projects over recent years, including replacement of light fixtures with more energy efficient LED bulbs, implementation of recycling programs within operations, completion of multiple boiler efficiency projects to reduce energy needs, and tree plantings around Bernheim Distillery. Over the course of the next decade, both corporate and branded initiatives will continue to be announced to support these goals as the long-term vision takes shape. To learn more about Heaven Hill’s environmental sustainability efforts, visit here.

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MEDIA CONTACT:

Lauren Cherry
Heaven Hill Brands
lcherry@heavenhill.com

30th December 20201st March 2021

Heaven Hill Distillery Fills Nine Millionth Barrel of Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Heaven Hill Distillery, the world’s second-largest holder of aging Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, today filled its nine millionth Bourbon barrel. Heaven Hill is the only local, independent, family-owned and operated company to reach this historic benchmark.

“In a year defined by teamwork and perseverance, today we celebrate another historic Heaven Hill milestone as we fill the nine millionth barrel of Bourbon,” said Max L. Shapira, President, Heaven Hill. “This nine millionth barrel, a rare achievement in the industry, is a testament to Heaven Hill’s commitment to quality and consistency since 1935.”

The milestone wraps up a banner year of Heaven Hill’s continued investment in the future of American Whiskey. Now aging more than 1.8 million barrels across 63 warehouses, Heaven Hill’s Bernheim distillery produces 1,300 barrels per day. The new Bourbon Heritage Center tasting rooms and retail store were completed and a grand opening of the entire new center is on track for early summer 2021. The launch of Larceny Barrel Proof, Elijah Straight Rye Whiskey, Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel and Parker’s Heritage Collection 10-Year-Old Heavy Char showcased the depth of premium innovation across diverse portfolio of award-winning mashbills. Recognized by industry professionals and consumers alike, the award season culminated with Larceny Barrel Proof Bourbon named as Whisky Advocate’s 2020 Whisky of the Year, the second Whisky of the Year for Heaven Hill Distillery in the past four years.

The nine millionth barrel will be put up to age in Rickhouse Y, where it will be displayed amongst Heaven Hill’s other milestone barrels.

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MEDIA CONTACT:

Lauren Cherry
Heaven Hill Distillery
lcherry@heavenhill.com

To download images relevant to this release, please visit here.

4th December 20204th December 2020

Larceny Barrel Proof Bourbon Named 2020 Whisky of the Year by Whisky Advocate

Elijah Craig Rye Whiskey also awarded #7 for 2020

Larceny Barrel Proof Bourbon was named Whisky Advocate’s 2020 Whisky of the Year, the second Whisky of the Year for Heaven Hill Distillery in the past four years. Elijah Craig Rye Whiskey was also named #7 in the 2020 lineup. Both products join previous, recent Heaven Hill Distillery winners — Elijah Craig Barrel Proof was named the 2017 Whisky of the Year and Heaven Hill 7-Year-Old Bottled-in-Bond was named #4 in 2019 on Whiskey Advocate’s renowned and highly anticipated top 20 yearly listing.

As noted in the Whisky Advocate Fall 2020 Buying Guide, “Larceny’s barrel proof expression…is a treat worth waiting for.” Whisky Advocate’s Top 20 are chosen each year from a collection of the highest-rated whiskeys nominated by the Buying Guide reviewers, and ranked based on quality, value, and availability. Heaven Hill Distillery has received top ten recognition for four whiskeys across three different mashbills since 2017, showcasing the consistency across a diverse portfolio of products. Read about and watch the full reveal on Whisky Advocate’s website for Larceny Barrel Proof here and Elijah Craig Rye here.

“For 85 years the Heaven Hill Distillery team’s commitment to quality and perseverance has set the course for our historic brands to thrive,” said Master Distiller Conor O’Driscoll. “Rooted in a storied brand, Larceny’s relatively new appearance to the category has inspired our innovation process. For two of our mashbills to receive the highest Whisky Advocate recognition in their purest, barrel proof forms is a testament to Heaven Hill’s distilling legacy.”

Larceny Barrel Proof launched in January 2020 as the first line extension for the brand, offering whiskey fans an opportunity to taste Larceny as Heaven Hill’s Master Distiller does, straight out of the barrel. Descendant of the wheated Bourbons that make up the historic Old Fitzgerald franchise acquired by Heaven Hill Distillery in 1999, the non-chill filtered bottlings are released three times per year. While the top award for Larceny Barrel Proof was for the B520 release, Whisky Advocate Executive Editor David Fleming notes “you’d be wise to give any of them a try.”

Continuing the tradition of Old Fitzgerald using wheat in place of rye as the secondary grain in the mashbill, Larceny uses more wheat than any of its competitors for a softer, rounder character. The brand is inspired by the history of John E. Fitzgerald, who as a treasury agent in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s was one of the only people legally allowed to carry the keys to the barrel storage rickhouses. With a discerning palate for fine Bourbon, John E. Fitzgerald often used his rickhouse keys to gain access to some of the finest Bourbon barrels for himself. Those barrels from which he chose to help himself were often referred to as “Fitzgerald barrels” around the distillery. Larceny Barrel Proof is released three times per year in limited quantities nationwide for a suggested retail price of $49.99.

While Larceny Barrel Proof is released in limited quantities, it’s mainline brand Larceny Small Batch is available nationwide for a suggested retail price of $24.99. First launched in 2012, Larceny Small Batch is one of the most successful new-to-the-world Bourbons in the past decade. At 92 proof, Larceny Small Batch has also enjoyed both critical and consumer acclaim, receiving Gold from the 2020 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, a 93 rating and Tried and True Award from the 2019 Ultimate Spirits Challenge, and a Consumers’ Choice ranking from the 2020 SIP Awards. Learn more about Larceny at larcenybourbon.com.

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MEDIA CONTACT:

Lauren Cherry
Heaven Hill Distillery
lcherry@heavenhill.com

To download images relevant to this release, please visit here.

27th October 2020

Heaven Hill Brands Names Eric Hund Senior Vice President of US Sales

Eric Hund has been named Senior Vice President of US Sales for Heaven Hill Brands. In his new role, Hund will lead the sales activities for the award-winning and diverse Heaven Hill spirits portfolio.

Hund brings with him 25 years of spirits industry experience, having joined the company in 2016 as Vice President of Sales for the Deep Eddy Vodka Division. Prior to joining the company, Hund was a Vice President of Sales at Republic National Distributing Company in Texas.

“Eric’s leadership and sales strategy expertise will set the course for the long-term success of our sales organization,” said Steve Feller, Chief Sales Officer. “We are fortunate to have his broad industry knowledge and team spirit at the helm of our sales team.”

Hund currently resides in Austin, Texas with his wife Diane and two sons. He is a proud graduate of the University of Texas in Austin.

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MEDIA CONTACT:

Lauren Cherry
Heaven Hill Brands
lcherry@heavenhill.com

3rd September 202029th June 2021

Elijah Craig Bourbon Launches Old Fashioned Week in Partnership with PUNCH

Inaugural celebration pledges up to $100,000 to Restaurant Workers’ Community Foundation

Elijah Craig and the Old Fashioned embody the centuries-old histories of Bourbon and classic cocktails. Today, the two pair together not only for a great cocktail, but for an even greater cause. In partnership with PUNCH, Elijah Craig Bourbon is launching the inaugural Old Fashioned Week from Oct. 16 – 25, 2020.

In 1789, Rev. Elijah Craig did not set out to become the Father of Bourbon when he first charred oak barrels, but his ingenuity proved a pivotal moment for Bourbon. Less than twenty years later, a spark ignited with what was first known as ‘the whiskey cocktail,’ paving the way for cocktail culture. The renaissance of classic cocktails over the last two decades rejuvenated desire for spirit-forward cocktails that are both balanced and complex, a setting ripe to celebrate an Elijah Craig Old Fashioned. Two classics in their own right, Elijah Craig Small Batch provides a 94-proof Bourbon canvas with a signature warm spice and subtle smoke flavor that complements the sweetness and spiciness of the Old Fashioned’s key ingredients.

“We are inspired by the lengths at which the hospitality industry is joining together to support each other,” said Max Stefka, Elijah Craig Senior Brand Manager. “For ten days we are raising a glass for the greater good by celebrating one great cocktail to lift up one great community through Elijah Craig’s Old Fashioned Week.”

The initial philanthropic goal for Old Fashioned Week will be donating up to $100,000 for the Restaurant Workers’ Community Foundation (RWCF), an advocacy and action nonprofit created by and for restaurant workers. Donations will go toward direct financial assistance, grants to non-profit partners, and to a zero-interest loan program for small businesses. Starting on Oct. 16, Elijah Craig will host a lineup of live activations designed to be both educational and entertaining in support of RWCF. In partnership with PUNCH, Elijah Craig will also highlight bartenders’ unique stories and signature Old Fashioned cocktails on www.punchdrink.com.

A national sweepstakes that offers a chance to win one of 500 home bar kits will also run from Sept. 1 – Nov. 15. Elijah Craig will match $1 for every online submission at OldFashionedWeek.com or match $5 for every social media submission by posting an image of a ‘virtual cheers’ using the hashtags #OldFashionedWeek or #Sweepstakes and tagging @ElijahCraig. To get involved, donate, or enter to win, consumers are encouraged to visit OldFashionedWeek.com for more information.

To enjoy the Old Fashioned in its purest form, start with the below cocktail recipe:

Ingredients

2 oz. Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon
.25 oz. Simple Syrup
3 Dashes of Bitters
Orange Swath
1 Brandied Cherry (optional)

Instructions

In a mixing glass add bitters, simple syrup, Elijah Craig Small Batch, and ice. Stir until well chilled. Strain cocktail over a large ice cube in a double old fashioned glass. Garnish with a swath of orange and an optional brandied cherry.

ABOUT ELIJAH CRAIG BOURBON: Elijah Craig Bourbon bears the name of the Reverend Elijah Craig, known as “The Father of Bourbon,” who established his distillery in 1789 on the banks of Elkhorn Creek in modern day Georgetown, Kentucky. He is credited with being the first distiller to age his wares in charred oak barrels. The clear, unaged corn liquor became transformed into a bold amber liquid with a distinctively smooth flavor that makes Bourbon what it is today. Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, the family of whiskeys includes Elijah Craig Small Batch, Elijah Craig Straight Rye Whiskey, Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, and Elijah Craig Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.

First brought to market in 1986, Heaven Hill Distillery’s Master Distillers were selecting a small number of barrels of the finest Bourbon to make Elijah Craig Small Batch long before the term “small batch” even existed. It is this attention to detail and superb craftsmanship that give Elijah Craig an ideal balance of age, robust body, and rich flavor. Elijah Craig 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 Excellent Highly Recommended honors at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge. For more information, please visit www.elijahcraig.com.

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Lauren Cherry
lcherry@heavenhill.com

Images for download here.

2nd September 202010th September 2020

Heaven Hill Distillery Announces Fall 2020 Edition of the Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Series

Heaven Hill Distillery announced today the release of the fall 2020 edition of Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey at 14-years-old. Comprised of barrels produced in fall of 2005, and bottled in fall of 2020, the sixth national release ushers in the latest hallmark series to the bottled-in-bond legacy.

Bottled in an ornate decanter, the fall edition denotes a black label, consistent across all fall releases. As was the case for the past editions, this edition’s tax strip, which has always been a signature of transparency on bottled-in-bond products, will disclose when the liquid was produced and bottled. The Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond fall edition will be available in the 750ml size on an allocated basis. It meets the strict requirements of a bottled-in-bond: the product of a single distillery from a single distilling season, aged a minimum of four years, and bottled at 100 proof or 50% alcohol by volume. The edition is available at a suggested retail price of $140.

A previous 14-year-old edition was released as a visitors center and Kentucky allocated product, denoted with a red label. The fall 2020 edition of Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is the first 14-year-old of the nationally released series and features Bourbon pulled from different rickhouses, at different floors, and on different production dates. As a leader of the Bottled-in-Bond category, Heaven Hill is proud to offer a premium, allocated product within this special class that showcases the authenticity and quality of the American Whiskey portfolio. Acquired in 1999 by Heaven Hill, the legendary Old Fitzgerald line is well-known for its distilling pedigree and intriguing story behind its namesake, John E. Fitzgerald.

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Lauren Cherry
Heaven Hill Brands
lcherry@heavenhill.com

To view or download more images from this release, click here.

30th June 202020th January 2021

Heaven Hill Statement on Social Media Advertising

Beginning July 1, Heaven Hill will pause advertising on all social media platforms. As a company, we are committed to promoting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for both the immediate and long-term. We are committed to meaningful and accountable measures on all our marketing platforms and believe more must be done to create safe and inclusive online communities.