Christian Brothers Adds Honey to Portfolio

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – The Christian Brothers Brandy will launch a Honey line extension to one of the strongest consumer franchises in the distilled spirits industry.  The flavor concept combines real, natural honey with the rich taste of Christian Brothers Brandy. 

The new Christian Brothers Honey launched nationally in February and features the traditional Christian Brothers’ cathedral bottle with a vibrant gold label and iconography familiar with honey, including a bear silhouette and honey comb background. The new product appeals to existing Brandy consumers and can be enjoyed straight, on the rocks, or in a variety of mixed drinks.  Additionally, Christian Brothers Honey will enjoy broad appeal to include non-brandy consumers who are looking for an easy to drink, flavored alternative to traditional Brandy.

“The growing consumer interest in honey flavor is a natural extension for Christian Brothers Brandy,” said Justin Ames, Senior Brand Manager, Christian Brothers Brandy.  “Combining a storied mark with new and innovative flavor profiles is a proven combination in other segments of the spirits industry.  As consumers seek new and innovative flavor profiles, Christian Brothers Honey is well served by being the leading flavor innovator in the Brandy category.”

Marketing materials will utilize the Christian Brothers’ “CB & …” tagline by adding “CB &…a taste of honey.”  The flavor extension will be supported by a trade media schedule with insertions in Beverage Network.  In addition, the product features an array of in-store and on-premise POS.  For more information, go to www.christianbrothershoney.com.

Founded in 1934, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes The Christian Brothers Brandies; Evan Williams and Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys; Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Hpnotiq Liqueur; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Lunazul and Two Fingers Tequilas, and Dubonnet Aperitif.

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

-30-

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

Heaven Hill Distilleries Announces Release of 2001 Edition of Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage Bourbon

The 16th Annual Edition of the Award-Winning Vintage-Dated Bourbon to Begin Shipping After Holidays

LOUISVILLE, Ky. –   Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. announces the release of the 2001 edition of its highly acclaimed Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, the 16th annual release of the series.

The world-renowned Single Barrel Bourbon has garnered many prestigious awards, including “Spirit of the Year – American Whiskey” from Food & Wine; “Domestic Whiskey of the Year” by Malt Advocate; and “Whiskey of the Year” by The Spirit Journal, the first Bourbon upon which the publication has bestowed this prestigious title. “Even though the mashbill–the grain recipe–is the same from year to year, we try to achieve a particular flavor profile with each vintage,” noted Heaven Hill Master Distiller Parker Beam, who along with his son Craig produces and selects each vintage from among Heaven Hill’s 900,000 barrels of aging Bourbon.  “And judging from the critical acclaim it’s received, it seems like we’ve been pretty successful with the vintage-dated concept behind Evan Williams Single Barrel.”
 
Heaven Hill, the nation’s largest remaining family-owned and operated, independent spirits producer and the world’s second-largest holder of aging Bourbon, offered a sneak peak of the latest vintage in the landmark series for 500 members of its Bardstown Whiskey Society in an elegant setting at Louisville’s famed Derby Museum at Churchill Downs back in November.
   
As with the previous 15 vintages, which are now highly sought after collector’s items, each bottle of the 2001 edition of Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage Bourbon is marked with the exact date that it was placed in oak and bottled, in addition to the exact serial number of the single barrel from which it was drawn.

The 86.6 proof Bourbon is matured in natural open-rick warehouses under the careful supervision of Heaven Hill’s father and son Master Distillers, who monitor the progress of each year’s vintage to ensure it maintains its intended flavor profile and superb quality.  This new edition features the traditional corn, malted barley and rye mashbill, and stringent selection of barrels from the top three floors of the rickhouse, that are the hallmarks of all of Parker and Craig Beam’s Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage Bourbons.  The 2001 edition will be available nationally beginning in January 2011 at an average retail price of $25.99 for a 750 ml bottle, which is why it has also been named a “Best Buy” award winner by Malt Advocate and Wine Enthusiast magazines, among others.  

Founded in 1934, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes The Christian Brothers Brandies; Evan Williams and Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys; Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Hpnotiq Liqueur; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Lunazul and Two Fingers Tequilas, and Dubonnet Aperitif.

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

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

Evan Williams Cherry Reserve Flavored Bourbon to be launched in September

New Cherry flavor closely follows the runaway success of Evan Williams Honey Reserve

BARDSTOWN, KY–Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc., the country’s largest independent family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer, announces the release of Evan Williams Cherry Reserve Kentucky Liqueur, a new product that marries extra-aged Evan Williams Bourbon with natural cherry flavor.  Bottled at 70 proof and available in both a 750ml and 50ml size, Evan Williams Cherry Reserve will be shipping to select markets across the country in September at an average retail price of $14.99 for the 750ml bottle.

The launch of Evan Williams Cherry Reserve follows closely on the heels of the hugely successful introduction of Evan Williams Honey Reserve, which began in test markets in September 2009 and completed its national rollout in February of 2010.  Since that time, it has had both great sales success and critical acclaim, including winning a Silver Medal at the most recent San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Both the Evan Williams Cherry and Honey Reserves take advantage of established trends in the distilled spirits industry in general and the American straight whiskey category in particular.  Among these is the ongoing success of flavored spirits, whose growth is more than double that of unflavored spirits; as well as the continued popularity of Bourbon, especially Evan Williams, which showed double digit sales percentage increases in both 2008 and 2009. Heaven Hill fully anticipates that infusing Evan Williams extra-aged Bourbon, the second largest selling Bourbon brand in the United States and the world and a “Best Buy Whiskey of the Year” winner, with natural cherry will yield similar success as that achieved with Evan Williams Honey Reserve.

Like the Honey Reserve, Evan Williams Cherry Reserve is packaged in the highly-recognizable square Evan Williams bottle, with a clear label carrying the Evan Williams logo and a stylized rendition of cherries. With a black and red capsule closure, the trade dress draws on the equity of the Evan Williams brand franchise, but with a contemporary flair.  Bottled at an approachable 70 proof, and infused with natural cherry taste that complements its sweet, easy-to-drink Bourbon flavor, Evan Williams Cherry Reserve lives up to its tagline of “Smooth Bourbon. Cherry Zing.”

“We have seen remarkable success with Evan Williams Black Label and now Evan Williams Honey Reserve,” stated Heaven Hill brand manager Susan Wahl.  “Given the strength of the Evan Williams brand franchise and the proven success of the flavored Bourbon sub-category, we believe it is the perfect time in which to launch Evan Williams Cherry Reserve.  And with a very approachable price point and a full range of retail and on-premise marketing materials available, we are expecting our customers to do some real ‘cherry picking’!”

To help merchandise the brand, Evan Williams Cherry Reserve is supported by an array of retail promotional materials–including a permanent wire rack and header card, shelf talkers, case cards, cold box clings and a 50ml counter unit–allowing off-premise operators to create impactful displays that will capture consumer attention.  In order to generate sampling in bars and restaurants, on-premise POS including T-shirts and shot glasses will also be made available.  A targeted trade advertising schedule will also help create awareness among the key retail and on-premise audiences.  All materials utilize striking visuals and the “Smooth Bourbon. Cherry Zing.” positioning, rendered in red and black graphics.  Support materials also emphasize that Evan Williams Cherry Reserve can be consumed as a shot or in a variety of delicious simple cocktails such as the Cherry Breeze, Cherry Twist Margarita and Cherry Cola.

Founded in 1934, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes The Christian Brothers Brandies; Evan Williams and Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys; Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Hpnotiq Liqueur; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Lunazul and Two Fingers Tequilas, and Dubonnet Aperitif.

-30-

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

Burnett’s Adds to Successful Flavored Vodka Line with Launch of 21st Flavor Pineapple

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc., the producers of the Burnett’s Gin and Vodka franchise add to the expanding Burnett’s Flavored Vodka line with its 21st flavor -Pineapple.

Burnett’s Vodka, with its superior smoothness positioning, is already one of the hottest selling vodkas on the market.  The full line of 21 Burnett’s Flavored Vodkas – Blueberry, Cherry, Citrus, Coconut, Cranberry, Espresso, Fruit Punch, Grape, Lime, Mango, Orange, Peach, Pink Lemonade, Pomegranate, Raspberry, Sour Apple, Strawberry, Sweet Tea, Vanilla, Watermelon and now Pineapple- has grown to be one of the largest portfolios in the industry.

As with all the flavors, Burnett’s Pineapple delivers the distinctive Burnett’s clarity, smoothness, and all natural flavors in an extremely popular taste profile.  All of the Burnett’s Vodkas are quadruple distilled and triple filtered for uncompromising quality that sets them apart from the competition.  This quality and the distinctive Burnett’s packaging make Burnett’s Flavored Vodkas “clearly superior”.

“We have used our unique product development and positioning strategy to grow the Burnett’s Vodka franchise to include twenty-one innovative flavors,” said Reid Hafer, Senior Brand Manager.  “With the addition of Pineapple to the flavored vodka line we are able to expand the brand portfolio without cannibalizing existing flavors.”

The launch of the new flavor will be supported by POS for floor displays and shelf facings, as well as sales education materials.  The Burnett’s website, (www.burnettsvodka.com) will also provide information and appetizing drink recipes for all the flavors.

Burnett’s Pineapple Flavored Vodka is available in 1.75L, 1.0L, 750ml, and 50ml sizes, bottled at 35% alcohol by volume (70 proof).  The product is available for a suggested retail price of $9.99 for a 750ml.  Burnett’s Pineapple Flavored Vodka will be available nationally Summer 2010.

Burnett’s is one of the leading franchises in the distilled spirits industry.  Since 2000, Burnett’s Vodka has been a regular Beverage Information Group “Growth Brand” and Impact “Hot Brand” as one of the fastest growing products in the industry.  Most recently Burnett’s was awarded the “Fast Track Brand 2010” from the Beverage Information Group. The entire line includes the both 80 and 100 proof Vodka, an array of Flavored Vodkas and Ultra Flavored Vodka.  In addition the Burnett’s franchise includes Gin, Rums, and Prepared Cocktails.

Founded in 1934, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes The Christian Brothers Brandies; Evan Williams and Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys; Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Hpnotiq Liqueur; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Lunazul and Two Fingers Tequilas, and Dubonnet Aperitif.

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

-30-

CONTACT:
Jenny Goodman
Corporate Communications Coordinator
502-413-0235
jgoodman@heavenhill.com

Burnett’s Adds Fruit Punch to Flavored Vodka Line

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – The Burnett’s Flavored Vodka portfolio continues to expand with the addition of the 20th flavor – Fruit Punch.  The Flavored Vodka category continues to gain popularity and is one of the most vibrant category segments in the distilled spirits industry.

Since the introduction of its first flavor, Burnett’s Flavored Vodkas have grown to be one of the largest portfolios in the entire industry.  The franchise now includes 20 flavors – Blueberry, Cherry, Citrus, Coconut, Cranberry, Espresso, Grape, Lime, Mango, Orange, Peach, Pink Lemonade, Pomegranate, Raspberry, Sour Apple, Strawberry, Sweet Tea, Vanilla, Watermelon and now Fruit Punch.

“We have taken advantage of the great success and superior quality of Burnett’s Vodka and developed twenty unique flavors,” said Reid Hafer, Senior Brand Manager.  “With the addition of Fruit Punch to the flavored vodka line, consumers can now enjoy the great taste of Burnett’s Vodka in a new and innovative way.”

The launch of the new flavor will be supported by POS for floor displays and shelf facings, as well as sales education materials.  The Burnett’s website, (www.burnettsvodka.com) will also provide information and appetizing drink recipes for all the flavors.

Burnett’s Fruit Punch Flavored Vodka is available in 1.75L, 1.0L, 750ml, and 50ml sizes, bottled at 35% alcohol by volume (70 proof).  The product is available for a suggested retail price of $9.99 for a 750ml.  Burnett’s Fruit Punch Flavored Vodka will be available nationally spring 2010.

Burnett’s is one of the leading franchises in the distilled spirits industry.  Since 2000, Burnett’s Vodka has been a regular Beverage Information Group “Growth Brand” and Impact “Hot Brand” as one of the fastest growing products in the industry.  The entire line includes the regular 80 proof Vodka, an array of Flavored Vodkas, Gin, Rums, Ultras, and 100 proof varieties.

Founded in 1934, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes The Christian Brothers Brandies; Evan Williams and Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys; Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Hpnotiq Liqueur; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Lunazul and Two Fingers Tequilas, and Dubonnet Aperitif.

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

-30-

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

Blackheart Premium Spiced Rum now available

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

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

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

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

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

Founded in 1934, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes The Christian Brothers Brandies; Evan Williams and Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys; Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Hpnotiq Liqueur; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Lunazul and Two Fingers Tequilas, and Dubonnet Aperitif.

-30-

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

Evan Williams Single Barrel 2000 Vintage Bourbon Debuts in New Packaging

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

-end-

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

Heaven Hill Distilleries to Release Third, Final Bottling of Rittenhouse Very Rare Single Barrel Straight Rye Whiskey

New 25-year-old version follows the critically-acclaimed 21 and 23-year-old expressions released in prior years

BARDSTOWN, KY—Can the third time possibly be more charming than the first two?  That is the question for American Whiskey enthusiasts as Heaven Hill Distilleries announces the release of the third and final bottling of Rittenhouse Very Rare Single Barrel Rye.  Following the release of the 21-year-old bottling in 2006 and the 23-year-old  in late 2007, the new 25-year-old expression—drawn from the final barrels of the same lot as the first two Rittenhouse Very Rare Single Barrel releases—will have big shoes to fill.

The 21-year-old bottling captured a Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and in November of 2007 the second-edition 23-year-old was released, and it captured the “Best Rye Whiskey” award, and a double gold medal, from the San Francisco Spirits Competition.  And at the San Francisco event the year before, another Rittenhouse version, the Bottled-in-Bond, was named “North American Whiskey of the Year”.  So how can the new 25-year-old release, shipping this November, surpass the accolades of its predecessors?  Time will tell, but Heaven Hill father and son Master Distillers Parker and Craig Beam see no discernable drop off in quality in the newest release.

“This whiskey, at 25 years old, pushes the limits of barrel aging like the two releases before it,” observed legendary 6th generation distiller Parker Beam. “But like those earlier releases, these barrels have aged on the very first floor of Rickhouse OO.  The more moderate aging conditions on that low level kept the whiskey from getting too woody and tannic.  And by releasing this as a non-chill filtered product—also like the first two—all the flavorful esters and taste components really come through.  It’s a real marvel of nature!”

With straight rye whiskey enjoying a huge renaissance among both whiskey aficionados and mixologists, the few suppliers that still make and age rye are hard pressed to maintain stocks for their current labels.  Heaven Hill’s Rittenhouse Bottled-in Bond rye is on strict allocation and stocks are extremely limited for the second year in a row.  So when a new bottling of rye whiskey comes out, it is greeted with eager anticipation by the nation’s whiskey-loving populace.   The first two editions of Rittenhouse Very Rare Single Barrel Rye were quickly depleted from Heaven Hill’s warehouse, and with the continuing resurgence of rye there is every reason to believe the third and final edition will sell out just as quickly. 

“A huge and relatively rapid upsurge in demand has made any barrel of rye a highly prized commodity in today’s market,” noted Heaven Hill brand manager Susan Wahl.  “If a 4 year old barrel of rye whiskey is worth its weight in gold, so to speak, then superb barrels of extraordinarily aged rye are priceless.  And American Whiskey connoisseurs, who already consider the first two Rittenhouse Very Rare Single Barrel bottlings to be prized possessions, are in for a real treat with this last edition.”

Rittenhouse Very Rare 25-year-old Single Barrel Rye, which will be available in major metro markets throughout the country for the holiday season at an average retail price of $190 for a 750ml bottle, is a very limited release—only one thousand 3-bottle cases, or a total of 3,000 bottles, will be shipped within the US, the United Kingdom, France, Australia, New Zealand and Japan.  The 100 proof  whiskey is very rare, indeed, for a number of reasons—its single barrel designation, its remarkable age, its pedigree as a Heaven Hill straight rye, its lack of chill filtering.  When all combined into one outstanding, impressively dressed package, it will represent a new “holy grail” for American Whiskey and Rye Whiskey lovers.

Rye whiskey has undergone a major resurgence as consumers, energized by the array of specialty Bourbons introduced in the 1990’s and this decade, have reached out to discover other styles of American straight whiskey.  Heaven Hill Distilleries, the country’s second largest producer of Bourbon, also takes great pride in the fact that they are the only one of the nation’s major distillers who make all the recognized styles of American straight whiskey—Bourbon, rye whiskey, corn whiskey, even their Bernheim Original Wheat Whiskey.  Rye, which was the first straight whiskey produced in the thirteen colonies and was until the late 20th century the preeminent style of American Straight Whiskey, is prized among whiskey lovers for its sharp, fruity taste and spicy finish.  Heaven Hill was one of three distilleries that kept the rye category alive during the 1970’s and 1980’s, despite stagnant or declining sales.   

Founded in 1934, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (www.heaven-hill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes The Christian Brothers Brandies; Evan Williams Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey; Hpnotiq Liqueur; Whaler’s Rum; Burnett’s Gin and Vodkas; Dubonnet Aperitif; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Água Luca Brazilian Rum Cachaça, and Lunazul Tequila.

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

-end-

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

Heaven Hill Distilleries Announces Release of the Third Edition of “Parker’s Heritage Collection” American Whiskey Series

2009 “Golden Anniversary” Bottling Celebrates Master Distiller Parker Beam’s 50 Years of Craftsmanship

BARDSTOWN, KY—Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc., the country’s largest independent family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer, announces the September release of the third edition of Parker’s Heritage Collection, a limited annual series of rare, aged American Whiskeys that pays tribute to 6th Generation Master Distiller Parker Beam. The third release, the 2009 “Golden Anniversary” edition, specifically celebrates Parker’s 50 years as a distiller, beginning in 1960, by marrying Bourbons from each of his five decades of craftsmanship in a rare and limited bottling. 

The 2009 release of Parker’s Heritage Collection comes on the heels of two of Heaven Hill’s most highly acclaimed whiskeys, the barrel-proof 11-year-old 2007 edition Bourbon that was named one of Malt Advocate “Top Ten New Whiskies of 2007” and placed #21 in F. Paul Pacult’s “111 Best Whiskeys, Brandies, Liqueurs and White Spirits in the World”, and the 27-year-old 2008 Bourbon that won Best of Show, Brown Spirits at the most recent San Francisco World Spirits Competition and was named “North American Whiskey of the Year” by Malt Advocate. The Golden Anniversary edition will be offered nationally in a 750ml bottle, like the previous two Parker’s Heritage Collection releases, and will be bottled at 100 proof with an average retail price of $150. The entire production run will only number 1500 three bottle cases, which will be allocated across the country and in select international markets and which will undoubtedly sell out as quickly as the previous editions.

Only Heaven Hill Distilleries, with the world’s second largest inventory of aging Bourbon and nearly 50% of the world’s supply of Bourbon barrels over 8 years old, could bring these rare and aged whiskeys to market. Parker Beam, along with his son Craig, oversees one of the world’s most highly esteemed distilling operations, where renowned brands such as Elijah Craig, Old Fitzgerald, and Evan Williams, the world’s second largest selling Bourbon, are produced according to Parker and Craig’s seven-generation- old family recipe and yeast strain. Aged in traditional open-rick warehouses in Nelson County, the Bourbons used to make the Golden Anniversary edition were personally selected and married together by Parker, with the majority of the whiskey aged 10 to 20 years, and much lesser amounts of older whiskey.

To create the rare marriage of whiskeys, barrels from the 1970’s and 80’s were pulled from a variety of 3rd floor locations where temperatures are more variable. Barrels from the 1990’s and 2000’s were pulled from the highest floors in the rickhouse where greater temperature swings promote the aging process. These were combined with a very small amount of Bourbon from the 1960’s to complete the five decade blend.

“This superlative Bourbon, a fitting tribute to an industry icon, has been 50 years in the making,” commented Susan Wahl, brand manager for whiskeys at Heaven Hill. “The superior quality of the whiskey, its scarcity, and the fact that it is in recognition of a beloved figure in the American distilling industry should combine to make this a highly-sought after bottling.”

Packaged in the same bottle as the 2007 and 2008 editions, the Parker’s Heritage Collection Golden Anniversary bottling carries a distinctive gold and buff face label rather than the black and gold label of the previous two releases. It also features the cork closure and black and gold capsule of the prior Cask Strength and 27-Year-Old versions.

“I’m honored that Heaven Hill is recognizing my 50 years with this bottling, and I’m also excited that I was able to select and combine Bourbons of such varying ages,” stated Parker Beam. “This was a fun and rewarding project and I hope everyone agrees with me that we have created a very special Bourbon, with blending unlike any other.”

Future editions of Parker’s Heritage Collection, to be released annually every Fall, will feature unique expressions of American Whiskey styles drawn from Heaven Hill’s inventory of more than 700,000 aging barrels. Heaven Hill, as the only remaining national distiller that produces Bourbon, Rye, Corn and Wheat Whiskeys (Tennessee Whiskey being the remaining straight whiskey type, which must by law be made in Tennessee), has in its rickhouses more American Whiskey styles/types than any other producer—barrels that would typically be dumped for acclaimed brands like Evan Williams and Elijah Craig Bourbon, Rittenhouse Rye, Bernheim Original Wheat Whiskey and Mellow Corn Corn Whiskey.

But Parker Beam, who oversees all aspects of whiskey production, aging and selection at Heaven Hill alongside his son Craig, much as Parker did with his father Earl, has earmarked select barrels of each of these styles to be dumped for future editions of Parker’s Heritage Collection.

Founded in 1934, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes The Christian Brothers Brandies; Evan Williams Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey; Hpnotiq Liqueur; Whaler’s Rum; Burnett’s Gin and Vodkas; Dubonnet Aperitif; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Água Luca Brazilian Rum Cachaça, Lunazul Tequila and La Certeza Tequila. Heaven Hill reminds you to “Think Wisely. Drink Wisely.”

-30-

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

Burnett’s Adds Pink Lemonade to Flavor Franchise

For Immediate Release

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – The Burnett’s Flavored Vodka portfolio continues to grow with the addition of the 19th flavor – Pink Lemonade.  Burnett’s continues to expand the franchise with the development of innovative new flavors.

Now one of the largest flavor portfolios in the industry, there are 19 flavors in the line, including Blueberry, Cherry, Citrus, Coconut, Cranberry, Espresso, Grape, Lime, Mango, Orange, Peach, Pomegranate, Raspberry, Sour Apple, Strawberry, Sweet Tea, Vanilla and Watermelon, in addition to the new Pink Lemonade.

“Consumers continue to seek great new flavors in for their favorite drinks and new creations,” said Reid Hafer, Senior Brand Manager. “We feel we have responded with some unique introductions like Sweet Tea and Pink Lemonade that do not necessarily conform to a standard fruit lineup.”

The launch of the new flavor will be supported by POS for floor displays and shelf facings, as well as sales education materials.  The Burnett’s website (www.burnettsvodka.com) will also provide information and appetizing drink recipes for all the flavors.

Burnett’s Pink Lemonade is available in P.E.T. 1.75 liter/50ml and glass 1.0 liter/750 ml sizes and bottled at 35% alcohol by volume (70 proof).

Burnett’s is one of the leading franchises in the distilled spirits industry.  Since 2000, Burnett’s Vodka has been an regular Beverage Information Group “Growth Brand” and Impact “Hot Brand” as one of the fastest growing products in the entire industry.  The entire line includes the flagship Vodka, an array of Flavored Vodkas, Gin, Rums, Ultras and 100 proof varieties.

Founded in 1934, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (www.heaven-hill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes The Christian Brothers Brandies; Evan Williams Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey; Hpnotiq Liqueur; Whaler’s Rum; Burnett’s Gin and Vodkas; Dubonnet Aperitif; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Água Luca Brazilian Rum Cachaça and Lunazul Tequila.

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

-30-

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