Category: Announcements

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Champion Named in Heaven Hill Brands 2017 “Bartender of the Year”

BARDSTOWN, KY – Heaven Hill Brands and Liquor.com announced today the champion of the 2017 Bartender of the Year competition. After a nationwide search to find the top bartenders across America, Nathan O’Neill from the Nomad Bar in New York City is the 2017 Bartender of the Year and the recipient of $15,000.

“I’m excited to be the 2017 Heaven Hill and Liquor.com Bartender of the Year. It was an incredible experience, set in such a beautiful location,” said O’Neill. “The standard of the competitors was absolutely fantastic and the atmosphere was perfect the whole time”

Eight finalists competed beachside at the St. Regis Bahia Resort in Puerto Rico on June 5. Final bartenders competed in a “beverage program” challenge creating an original cocktail utilizing ingredients native to Puerto Rico that was presented as if being considered for the St. Regis beverage program. The challenge was broken down into several sections, including selection of ingredients, concepting, ingredient preparation, recipe development, and presentation. Contestants were also asked to create two classic cocktails, one shaken and one stirred. Judging was based on the quality of the cocktails, the adherence to the guidelines, the technical performance, and the overall presentation.

Over 844 original cocktail recipes using Domaine de Canton French Ginger Liqueur, Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon, PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur, and Rittenhouse Rye Whisky were submitted online nationwide beginning August 1, 2016. 32 semifinalists then competed in San Francisco, Las Vegas, Miami, Dallas, Nashville, Denver, Chicago and New York throughout February and March. The top contestant from each regional semifinal vied for the title of Bartender of the Year and $15,000 at the St. Regis Bahia Resort in Puerto Rico.

“Our bartender of the year competition continues to raise the bar for innovation and professionalism in the hospitality industry,” said Kate Latts, Vice President Marketing for Heaven Hill Brands. “Congratulations to Nathan O’Neill, and to each of the contestants for their commitment to excellence and creativity.”

National Brand Educator for Heaven Hill Brands Lynn House, Bar Manager of Clyde Common & Pépé Le Moko Jeffrey Morgenthaler, and Owner/Bartender of Pouring Ribbons Joaquín Simó, and 2016 Bartender of the Year Abigail Gullo judged the final eight bartenders. Finalists were challenged on their full range of skills as hospitality professionals. Judges were looking for the ultimate bartender who displays the total breadth and aptitude all bartenders aspire to embody.

Grounded in the original Bartender of the Year Competition hosted by Domaine de Canton starting in 2009, Heaven Hill Brands resurrected the competition due to strong demand from bartenders worldwide. Nathan O’Neill from the Nomad Bar in New York City was named Bartender of the Year in 2017, and Abigail Gullo of Compere Lapin in New Orleans 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 Bourbon; Larceny, Elijah Craig and Henry McKenna Bourbons; Rittenhouse Rye Whisky; Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Admiral Nelson’s and Blackheart Rums; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; The Christian Brothers Brandies; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur; Lunazul Tequila and Carolan’s Irish Cream Liqueur.

San Francisco, January 21
First Last City
Jason Seele Mountain View, CA
Collin Nicholas San Francisco, CA
Tyler Richardson Sacramento, CA
Ian Lyke Pleasanton, CA
Watson Barry Oakland, CA
Jorge Vargas-Baquedano Los Gatos, CA
Austin, February 5
First Last City
Madelyn Kay Austin, TX
Andy Wright Austin, TX
Adrienne Feinberg Huston, TX
Cesar Perez II El Paso, TX
Kiyoko Kinoshita Dallas, TX
Peter Clifton Houston, TX
San Diego, February 18
First Last City
Julien Calella Venice, CA
Adam George Fournier Los Angeles, CA
Sam Penton Scottsdale, CA
Vay Su Los Angeles, CA
Clare Ward Culver City, CA
Cory Mendonca Las Vegas, NV
Portland, March 4
First Last City
Estanislado Orona Portland, OR
Heather Kehert Portland, OR
Benjamin Harris Seattle, WA
Scott Rixe Seattle, WA
Adam Robinson Portland, OR
Georgia Dahlman Kenmore, WA
Scott Diaz Tacoma, WA
Denver, March 19
First Last City
Austin Carson Denver, CO
Chris Dunsmoor Denver, CO
Stephen Winchell Colorado Springs, CO
Frankie Mealy Salt Lake City, UT
Chris Cleary Denver, CO
Topher Hartfield Denver, CO
Charleston, April 8
First Last City
Shaun Gordon Atlanta, GA
Corey Phillips Atlanta, GA
Arthur Boothe Sanford, FL
Ryan Smith Macon, GA
Steven Huddleston Charleston, SC
Jonathan Doar Charleston, SC
Chicago, April 15
First Last City
Ryan Arvin Detroit, MI
Kyle Thousand Detroit, MI
Mony Bunni Chicago, IL
Ryan Lindquist Chicago, IL
Aaron Pollack Chicago, IL
Benjamin Pavlichek Chicago, IL
New York City, April 29
First Last City
Lee Noble Lancaster, PA
Michael Anderson Pittsburgh, PA
Rachel Wright Buffalo, NY
Leanne Favre Brooklyn, NY
Harrison Ginsberg New York, NY
Benjamin Hash Lancaster, PA
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Heaven Hill Distillery Launches American Whiskey Tasting Experience Holiday Gift Set

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Heaven Hill Distillery invites you to an American Whiskey Tasting Experience this holiday season with a gift set featuring five signature mashbills. The first American Whiskey distillery to offer a tasting experience in premium 100ml glass tubes, samples include Bernheim Original Wheat Whiskey, Larceny Bourbon, Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage Bourbon, Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon, and Pikesville Straight Rye Whiskey.

As the only heritage distillery producing all major styles of American Whiskey, the tasting experience offers a unique opportunity to taste five different styles of award-winning brands. The gift set includes a brochure that guides consumers through a tasting of Wheat Whiskey, Wheat Bourbon, Single Barrel Bourbon, Small Batch Bourbon, and Rye Whiskey with product information, tasting notes and tips. The back of the box includes historical and tasting note information on all five brands.

“The American Whiskey Tasting Experience takes consumers on a journey through Heaven Hill Distillery’s commitment to quality and heritage for more than 80 years,” said Group Portfolio Director Susan Wahl. “Heaven Hill Distillery is excited to offer an easy way for consumers to taste a full range of premium American Whiskey styles.”

The Heaven Hill Distillery American Whiskey Tasting Experience gift set will be available this holiday season at a suggested retail price of $49.99. Packaged in a premium Heaven Hill Distillery box, each sample is bottled in a 100ml glass tube with brand logos screen-printed on each. The brands included consist of the following:

Bernheim Original Wheat Whiskey
This Heaven Hill Distillery original is named for the famed Bernheim Distillery in Louisville, Ky. A 7-Year-Old Wheat whiskey, Bernheim Original is the first new style of American whiskey to be introduced since Prohibition. At 90 proof, Bernheim’s mellow taste is refreshingly smooth when served straight or in cocktails.

Larceny Bourbon
Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon has its origins in the history of John E. Fitzgerald and the Old Fitzgerald brand. Heaven Hill’s Master Distillers select a limited number of barrels from specific floor locations in the rickhouse for Larceny’s six-year-old taste profile. Made with wheat as the secondary grain, and at 92 proof, Larceny has a softer, rounder taste profile.

Evan Williams Single Barrel
Each year Heaven Hill’s Master Distillers hand select barrels for this special edition with characteristics unique to that year. Every bottle is marked with the vintage date it was put into oak, along with the year it was bottled and the serial number of the barrel that the Bourbon was drawn from. Each edition is 86.6 proof.

Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon
Elijah Craig Small Batch is the signature Bourbon bearing the name of Rev. Elijah Craig, a Bourbon pioneer who is credited as the first distiller to age his whiskey in charred oak barrels. Long before the term Small Batch even existed, our Master Distillers were hand-selecting just the right number of barrels to make Elijah Craig. This expertise and attention to detail, and at 94 proof, give Elijah Craig Small Batch the right balance of rich flavor and full body for a warm spice and subtle smoke flavor.

Pikesville Straight Rye Whiskey
First produced in Maryland in the 1890s, Pikesville Rye, along with the rest of the once-booming Maryland Rye industry, was shuttered by prohibition. The brand reemerged after prohibition and became the last standing Maryland Rye. Now produced in Kentucky from extra-aged barrels stored in prime warehouse locations at 110 proof, Heaven Hill Distillery keeps this historic Maryland mark alive.

CONTACT:

Lauren Cherry
Heaven Hill Brands
(502) 413-0217
lcherry@heavenhill.com

 

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Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Named 2017 Whisky of the Year by Whisky Advocate

BARDSTOWN, KY – Elijah Craig Barrel Proof was named Whisky Advocate’s 2017 Whisky of the Year, featured in the Winter 2017 magazine issue. Elijah Craig was chosen from among hundreds of samples submitted globally throughout the year. 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. Read and watch the full review on Whisky Advocate’s website here.

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof previously earned spirits industry acclaim in 2017 as a World Whiskies Awards’ category winner, receiving Double Gold and Best Small Batch Bourbon – 11 Years and Older at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, 95 Points at F. Paul Pacult’s Ultimate Spirits Challenge, and Gold at the SIP Awards. As a small batch, 12-Year-Old Bourbon bottled straight from the barrel three times per year, the nose, taste, and finish are preserved in their simplest form, just as Master Distiller Denny Potter tastes them in Heaven Hill’s central Kentucky rickhouses. Originally scoring a 94 in the Summer 2017 issue of Whisky Advocate magazine, Fred Minnick described Elijah Craig Barrel Proof as a “Pure bliss; must sip.”

“Elijah Craig is an essential part of American Whiskey’s history, and we’re proud to embrace that legacy,” said Master Distiller Denny Potter. “As a nurturer of storied brands, Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit for more than 81 years.”

The signature Bourbon bears the name of Reverend Elijah Craig, a Bourbon pioneer who is credited with being the first distiller to age his whiskey in charred oak barrels, or the Father of Bourbon. Heaven Hill Distillery preserves the Bourbon making traditions developed by Elijah Craig over two hundred years ago, where local corn and grains are milled and mixed with limestone-rich Kentucky spring water, then fermented and distilled. Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is available nationally in limited quantities.

About Elijah Craig Bourbon
The Elijah Craig family of Bourbons is led by the flagship Elijah Craig Small Batch, made exclusively from batches of 200 barrels or less of 8 to 12-Year-Old Bourbon. First brought to market in 1986, Heaven Hill’s Master Distillers were selecting a small number of barrels of the finest Bourbon to make Elijah Craig 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. Its accolades have included a “Double Gold Medal” at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and two-time “Best of the Best” Bourbon by Whisky Magazine.

This signature spirit bears the name of the Rev. Elijah Craig, “The Father of Bourbon” who established his distillery in 1789. He is credited with being the first distiller to age his Kentucky whiskey 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. Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery and one of its bestselling Bourbons by case volume, it is complemented by Elijah Craig 12-Year-Old Barrel Proof, Elijah Craig 18-Year-Old Single Barrel and Elijah Craig 23-Year-Old Single Barrel in the portfolio. For more information, please visit www.elijahcraig.com.

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

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CONTACT:

Lauren Cherry
Heaven Hill Distillery
(502) 413-0217
lcherry@heavenhill.com

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Heaven Hill Distillery Dedicates Largest Single-Site Bourbon Distillery in American Whiskey

Heaven Hill Distillery Dedicates Largest Single-Site Bourbon Distillery in American Whiskey

$25 million expansion of the historic Bernheim facility brings capacity to 400,000 barrels per year

BARDSTOWN, KY – Heaven Hill Distillery today dedicated the expansion of its Bernheim facility, creating the single largest Bourbon production site after a $25 million investment. Congressman John Yarmuth (KY-03) and Mayor Greg Fischer joined Heaven Hill President Max L. Shapira and Master Distiller Denny Potter in a toast to the latest advancement in industry innovation.

Dating back to 1871, the historic site of Heaven Hill Distillery’s Bernheim facility, D.S.P. -KY 1, is a landmark for a broad range of iconic brands in the American Whiskey category. Acquired in 1999 by Heaven Hill, the site is now home to the Evan Williams Bourbon, the second largest selling Bourbon in the world, Larceny, Elijah Craig, and Henry McKenna, among others. The current expansion brings capacity to 400,000 barrels per year, marking Heaven Hill’s commitment to producing a full range of American Whiskey styles to meet current and future demand.

“As an American-owned and operated company, Heaven Hill Distillery is proud to be on the forefront of the American Whiskey movement and embark on the latest iteration of distillery technology and innovation,” said Shapira. “The Bourbon distillation project combines the latest of distilling techniques with the ability to produce our brands using traditional methods as we have for more than 80 years.”

Bernheim’s history as a leading distillery in experimentation, coupled with Heaven Hill’s commitment to quality, sets the stage for growth of both innovative and historic brands. Major components of the current expansion include four additional fermenters, another distillation set of a thumper and 66-inch beer column, a drop tub to increase number of mashes per day, a 50,000 pph boiler, a new grain handling and storage upgrade, a cooling capacity upgrade, and an operations software upgrade. Two prior expansions were completed at Bernheim since 2006, with the first bringing capacity to 200,000 barrels per year in 2007 and the second to 300,000 barrels per year in 2014. Since 2016, Heaven Hill has opened four warehouses at the new Cox’s Creek barrel warehouse location, where each warehouse holds almost 57,000 barrels of the more than 1.3 million barrels (approximately 25% of the world’s Bourbon supply) aging across Jefferson and Nelson Counties.

“This expansion is a truly monumental event for Heaven Hill, for the city of Louisville, and for the bourbon industry worldwide,” said Congressman Yarmuth. “This historic company has continued to distill some of the best American Whiskeys for nearly a century, and has helped lead the rebirth of bourbon as America’s native spirit. As co-chair of the Congressional Bourbon Caucus, I’m especially proud to now represent the largest bourbon production site in the world.”

In conjunction with Heaven Hill’s growing economic impact in the West Louisville community, Shapira also introduced a partnership with Dare to Care to support hunger relief within the area. A $10,000 donation will support a mobile pantry unit for West Louisville and purchase six freezers for partner agencies within the area to distribute fresh food and produce.

To celebrate the achievement, a commemorative barrel was signed by Heaven Hill employees and local dignitaries, and all shared a toast of Evan Williams Bourbon. The company remains true today to its original mission as a family-owned and operated, independent Kentucky company—the last remaining in the Bourbon business today. Lifting America’s spirit since 1935, Heaven Hill Distillery continues to be on the forefront of Bourbon as it has been through the last eight decades.

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

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CONTACT:

Lauren Cherry
Heaven Hill Brands
(502) 413-0217
lcherry@heavenhill.com

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Simmons College of Kentucky, Heaven Hill Brands Announce Charitable Partnership

Donation of  $30,000 goes to support students and programs

(Louisville, KY) – Heaven Hill Brandsm is proud to announce a charitable partnership with Simmons College of Kentucky.  This new partnership will donate student scholarships, support of the West Louisville Forum, and funding of a new food service program – a value of $30,000. Community members gathered today at Simmons College to unveil the partnership and announce the first scholarship recipients.

“Heaven Hill is proud to give back to the community in which our facility has been located since 1871 and support the students of Simmons College of Kentucky,” said Max Shapira, President, Heaven Hill Brands. “We see this as building a relationship between our two organizations as our footprint grows in the West End community.”

The details of the donation include funding for two (2) student Heaven Hill Scholars scholarships to help increase retention rate of students and encourage degree completion. Martious White of Louisville, Ky. and Terri Turner of Nashville accepted the scholarships. Applicants for the scholarships must meet specific requirements, including a 3.0 GPA, an essay on the topic of “How to Help My Community,” and full-time enrollment.

The donation also includes support for the West Louisville Forum and a new food service program for students.  The West Louisville Forum takes place every first Wednesday of each month at noon and highlights community issues and concerns of the West Louisville community. Funds for the food program will help ensure that students are provided the convenience of having a stable meal each day.

“Investment in Simmons College of Kentucky and our students is exactly what’s needed to turn things around in the West End community,” said Dr. Kevin Cosby, President of Simmons College of Kentucky. “Our students live in a food desert in the West End. We are delighted that business leaders in our community, such as Heaven Hill Brands, understand the significant impact they can make for positive change in the West End.”

 

About Simmons College of Kentucky

 Simmons College of Kentucky was founded in 1879 by former slaves.  The mission of Simmons College is to educate students in the urban context.  Simmons College of Kentucky is the 107th Historically Black College & University (HBCU) and holds degrees in General Studies, Business (Entrepreneurship), Communications, Sociology, and Religious Studies.  It is the only private HBCU in the state of Kentucky and prides itself in graduating students with no Federal student loan debt.

 

About Heaven Hill Brands
Founded in 1935, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Brands (www.heavenhill.com) is he 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 include Evan Williams Bourbon; Larcency, Elijah Craig and Henry McKenna Bourbons; Deep Eddy Vodka; Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Admiral Nelson’s and Blackheart Rums; HPNOTIQ Liquer; The Christian Brothers Brandies; PAMA Pomergrante Liquer; Domaine de Canton Ginger Liquer; Lunazul Tequila; and Rittenhouse Rye Whiskey.

 

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Heaven Hill Brands Signs Agreement to Acquire Carolan’s Irish Cream Liqueur, Irish Mist Liqueur

For Immediate Release

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BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Heaven Hill Brands has signed an agreement to acquire Carolan’s Irish Cream Liqueur and Irish Mist Liqueur through the purchase of 100% of the share capital of TJ Carolan & Son Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Gruppo Campari. The sale is expected to close August 1, 2017. The agreed acquisition of Carolan’s and Irish Mist complements Heaven Hill Brands’ robust and growing portfolio.

Carolan’s is the second-largest selling Irish cream whiskey liqueur world-wide. The product is produced in Ireland from the finest Irish ingredients including fresh cream, honey and Irish whiskey. Irish Mist has a long heritage as the first liqueur to be produced in Ireland. The Liqueur is a blend of Irish whiskey, honey and natural aromatic spices. Carolan’s and Irish Mist were acquired by Gruppo Campari in 2010.

“We are excited to add to Carolan’s and Irish Mist to our portfolio of leading brands,” said Max L. Shapira, president, Heaven Hill Brands. “The historic brands are certainly complementary fits for a Heaven Hill portfolio built on quality and innovation. We look forward to building on the success these brands have achieved both in the US and around the world.”

The Cream Liqueur segment of the industry has been a significant and stable category for decades. Representing approximately 3,000,000 cases, the cream category’s largest brands are nearly 20 percent of the total imported liqueur market in the U.S. Carolan’s has grown over six percent since 2010 outpacing the bulk of the Cream Liqueur category.

Likewise, the Irish Whiskey category, with which Irish Mist is closely related, has experienced similar growth dynamics to American Whiskey. Since 2010, the category is up over 150 percent and expected to continue that significant growth for many years to come. A companion Irish Mist Blended Irish Whiskey was introduced in 2014.

Carolan’s Irish Cream was developed in 1978 and first launched in the UK in July 1979. Since then the brand has grown steadily and established itself as the world’s no. 2 Irish Cream Liqueur with sales in over 40 countries. Its superior taste is derived from the subtle blending of flavors, including natural honey sourced from the Clonmel area in Ireland – the word “Clonmel” derives from the Gaelic “Cluain Meala” which means Vale of Honey. Carolan’s Irish Cream is named after the celebrated 17th century harpist, Turlough O’Carolan, a legendary travelling musician of that time.

Irish Mist was the first liqueur to be produced in Ireland at Tullamore, County Offaly. The company history goes back to 1829 when the Tullamore Distillery was founded to produce Irish whiskey. Irish Mist is a blend of Irish whiskey, honey and natural aromatic spices. It was the first liqueur to be produced in Ireland and, while the bottle has changed a number of times over the years, the liqueur itself has remained true to its origins – the recipe has not changed, so you can be sure of the warming whiskey and honeyed sweetness, beautifully counter balanced by aromatic spices, that gives Irish Mist its wonderfully complex flavor and taste experience.

Heaven Hill has been exceptionally active over a long period of time in expanding its portfolio through internal product innovation and acquisitions. Prior to the current agreed acquisition of Carolan’s and Irish Mist, in 2015 the company acquired Deep Eddy Vodka, one of the fastest growing Vodkas in the U.S.

Founded in 1935, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Brands (www.heavenhill.com) is America’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and has produced and ages the world’s second-largest inventory of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes Evan Williams Bourbon; Larceny, Elijah Craig and Henry McKenna Bourbons; Deep Eddy Vodka; Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Admiral Nelson’s and Blackheart Rums; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; Carolan’s Irish Cream Liqueur; The Christian Brothers Brandies; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur; Lunazul Tequila; and Rittenhouse Rye Whisky. Heaven Hill encourages you to Think Wisely. Drink Wisely.

For further information:
Heaven Hill Brands
Josh Hafer
502 413 0219
jhafer@heavenhill.com

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Heaven Hill Names Master Distiller Denny Potter Vice President of Operations

BARDSTOWN, KY – Heaven Hill Brands has named Denny Potter Vice President of Operations and Master Distiller. In addition to his current distilling responsibilities, Potter will provide strategic direction and leadership for all Heaven Hill production operations including the Bardstown Bottling Operations, Louisville’s Bernheim Distillery, and Deep Eddy Vodka’s Austin, Tx. distillery and production facility. Previously, Potter served as Master Distiller and Bernheim Distillery Plant Manager, overseeing production of the world’s second-largest inventory of aging Bourbon.

For almost 20 years, Potter has had broad industry experience in a range of production capacities previously at both Cruzan Rum and Maker’s Mark. Since his joining Heaven Hill Brands in 2013, the company has substantially expanded production at the Bernheim Distillery while continuing the company’s storied reputation for authenticity and world renowned, award winning brands, including Evan Williams, Elijah Craig, Larceny and Henry McKenna. Under Potter’s leadership, the company was awarded the lauded 2016 Whiskey Magazine “Distiller of the Year” honor.

“Since joining Heaven Hill, Denny has been a tremendous asset to both our distillery and American whiskey brands, as well as our entire Heaven Hill operations team,” said president Max L. Shapira. “We are fortunate to have his knowledge and talents utilized across all of Heaven Hill Brands.”

“The opportunity to expand my leadership role at Heaven Hill is truly exciting,” said Potter. “I look forward to leading our operations while maintaining my distilling role, which is truly a passion and honor.”

A native of Louisville, Potter holds an undergraduate degree from Indiana University in Bloomington and an MBA from Indiana University-Southeast. Potter and his wife Angie reside with their family in Bardstown, Ky.

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

CONTACT:

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

To download images from this press release, please visit the Heaven Hill “Press Room” at http://connect.heavenhill.com and enter the username and password below. Username: Heaven Hill
Password: Guest Folder: Personnel

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New York Finalist Chosen for Heaven Hill Brands, Liquor.com 2017 “Bartender of the Year”

Eight Contestants to Compete in Puerto Rico Finals

Heaven Hill Brands and Liquor.com today announced the finalist of the New York regional semifinal competing for the 2017 Bartender of the Year competition. Nathan O’Neill of the NoMad Hotel in New York City won first place, $1,000, and a trip to the finals in Puerto Rico. Michael Anderson of Meat & Potatoes in Pittsburgh won second place and $500.

Eight semifinalists competed regionally Monday, April 10 at The Shanty in New York. Semifinal bartenders competed in two rounds, first mixing one of their original cocktail entries and then creating three cocktails of the dealers’ choice, using Domaine de Canton French Ginger Liqueur, Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon, PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur, or Rittenhouse Rye Whisky at least once throughout the round.

National Brand Educator for Heaven Hill Brands Lynn House, Owner/Bartender of Pouring Ribbons Joaquín Simó, and Director of Mixology & Spirits Education for Southern Wine & Spirits of New York Allen Katz judged the semifinalists’ cocktails and chose one finalist based on highest scores. Cocktails were scored on name, appearance and presentation, inspiration, balance of flavors, aroma and character, while contestants were also scored on creativity, presentation style and product knowledge.

Over 844 original cocktail recipes were submitted online nationwide beginning August 1, 2016. Preliminary entries required two original cocktail recipes, one classic and one innovative, along with a short description of what hospitality means to the contestant. The top contestant from each regional semifinal will vie for the title of Bartender of the Year and $15,000 at the St. Regis Bahia Resort in Puerto Rico in June 2017. Finalists will be challenged on their full range of skills as hospitality professionals. Judges will be looking for the ultimate bartender who displays the total breadth and aptitude all bartenders aspire to embody.

Grounded in the original Bartender of the Year Competition hosted by Domaine de Canton starting in 2009, Heaven Hill Brands resurrected the competition due to strong demand from bartenders worldwide. Abigail Gullo of Compere Lapin in New Orleans set the bar as the champion of the inaugural Bartender of the Year competition in 2016. Visit the official competition website at www.bartenderoftheyear.liquor.com for complete competition details and names of this year’s semifinalists.

The Broadway

Crafted By Nathan O’Neill

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 ounce(s) Rittenhouse Rye
  • 0.75 ounce(s) Cocchi Di Torino Vermouth
  • 0.5 ounce(s) Cynar
  • 0.25 ounce(s) Bonal
  • 1 dash(es) Orange Bitters
  • 1 dash(es) Angostura Bitters
  • Tsp Maraschino

Presentation/House-made ingredients/Preparation:

Add all ingredients into a mixing glass and stir over cubed ice, strain into a rocks glass when adequate dilution has been met over block ice and garnish with 3x maraschino cherries on a skewer.

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

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CONTACT:

Lauren Cherry
Heaven Hill Brands
(502) 413-0217
lcherry@heavenhill.com

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Username: Heaven Hill
Password: Guest
Folder: Bartender of the Year

 

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Admiral Nelson’s Rum Sets Sail with New Pineapple Flavor This Spring

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Heaven Hill Brands, the country’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer, will build upon the successful Admiral Nelson’s Rum franchise with the release of Admiral Nelson’s Pineapple Rum this spring. As the second-largest brand in the spiced rum segment and with four percent brand growth the franchise is poised for success with this this premium, fresh, flavor that is sure to bring out an adventurous spirit with each sip.

“Admiral Nelson’s continues to chart its own course offerings that deliver a smooth, premium taste that consumers look for at an approachable price,” said Heaven Hill Brands Senior Brand Manager Hannah Venhoff. “Admiral Nelson’s Pineapple is a natural extension, capitalizing on the flavor trend and providing a fresh, tropical flavor profile suited for dynamic and everyday experiences.”

Bottled at 70 proof, the natural fruit flavor is blended with light Caribbean rum, creating the perfect base for any cocktail. The sweet flavor is also highlighted in the packaging with yellow and brown accents and will be supported by an array of retail point of sale items with the “Admirably Smooth. Perfectly Pineapple.” brand message.

Admiral Nelson’s Pineapple Rum will be available beginning in April at a suggested retail price of $10.99/750ml in 50ml, 750ml, 1L and 1.75L sizes.

Acquired by Heaven Hill in 2011, Admiral Nelson’s Spiced Rum continues to be one of the best-selling spiced rums in the spirits industry. The brand is the second-largest brand in the spiced rum segment. Since 2007, it has been a consistent winner of growth awards from leading trade publications, including Market Watch and Beverage Information Group.

The Admiral Nelson’s family of rums is also comprised of the flagship Admiral Nelson’s Spiced, Black Patch Black Spiced, 101 Proof Spiced, Cherry Spiced, Coconut, Vanilla, Dark, Silver and Gold varieties. The franchise is available in all standard sizes and bottled between 35-50.5 percent alcohol by volume (70-101 proof). For more information, visit www.admiralnelsonsrum.com.

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

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CONTACT:

Lauren Cherry
Heaven Hill Brands
(502) 413-0217
lcherry@heavenhill.com

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Evan Williams Bourbon Experience Offers Special, Limited Edition Kentucky Derby Festival Bourbon Bottle

As an official sponsor of the Kentucky Derby Festival, the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience will release a special edition bottle of 2009 Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage Bourbon to commemorate the 2017 Kentucky Derby Festival. The Evan Williams Bourbon Experience will also be the sole location providing Pegasus Pins through March 6.

Dipped in a unique gold wax with a commemorative pin sealed atop the cap, the bottle features a special face label with the Kentucky Derby Festival logo, and includes a 2017 Pegasus Pin in an envelope attached to each bottle. Evan Williams Bourbon Experience Artisanal Distiller Charlie Downs and Kentucky Derby Festival President and CEO Mike Berry unveiled the official 2017 pin and limited edition bottle at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience on Thursday, Feb. 16, by personally hand-dipping two of the limited edition bottles.

This bottle will be available for purchase at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience and other area retailers for $74.99 while supplies last.

The limited edition 2009 vintage is bottled at 107 proof, commemorating both the 62nd Kentucky Derby Festival and 45th Pegasus Pin anniversary. Like a fine wine, each bottle of Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage Bourbon contains the exact day it was put in an oak barrel to age.

The Bourbon is matured in natural open-rick warehouses under the careful supervision of Heaven Hill’s Master Distillers, who monitor the progress of each year’s vintage to ensure it maintains its intended flavor profile and superb quality.

Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage has won five “Whiskey of the Year” awards and is one of the most critically-acclaimed specialty Bourbons produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, the world’s second largest holder of aging Bourbon.

“The Evan Williams Bourbon Experience is proud to partner with the Kentucky Derby Festival to share the unique Kentucky spirit that is unmatched elsewhere,” said Evan Williams Bourbon Experience Artisanal Distiller Charlie Downs. “We’re honored to raise a toast to Kentucky’s heritage and welcome Festival Fans across the globe to join in celebrating the 2017 Kentucky Derby.”

Bringing the community together since 1956, the Kentucky Derby Festival has grown to become a whirlwind of more than 70 special events leading up to the big race in May. The Kentucky Derby Festival runs this year from April 20 – May 5. Pegasus Pins, which allow entry to Derby Festival events, may be purchased at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience as well.

“We couldn’t think of a better a pairing of two entities. Both the Derby Festival and Evan Williams Bourbon are part of Kentucky’s history and tradition,” said Mike Berry, Kentucky Derby Festival President and CEO. “We know this special edition bottle will be very popular with pin collectors and Festival Fans alike.”

About Kentucky Derby Festival: Since 1956, the Derby Festival has worked to bring the community together in celebration. The Festival is an independent community organization supported by 4,000 volunteers, 400 businesses and civic groups, Pegasus Pin sponsorships and event participation. This involvement has made the Festival the largest single attended event in Kentucky and one of the leading community celebrations in the world.

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’s modern Bernheim Distillery operations.

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