Category: Press Releases

Posted on

Heaven Hill Brands Named a “US Best Managed Company” By Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal

Co-Presidents Kate and Allan Latts Celebrate the Recognition During Groundbreaking Ceremony for New 48,190 Sq. Foot Building Planned in Louisville

Louisville, Ky. (May 10, 2024) — Heaven Hill Brands is proud to announce it has been selected as a 2024 US Best Managed company. Now in its fifth year, the award, sponsored by Deloitte* Private and The Wall Street Journal, recognizes the achievements of U.S. private companies and the successes of their management teams.

“We are truly honored to be counted among this distinguished group of companies. This recognition not only celebrates the tireless efforts of our leaders, both past and present, but also reaffirms what we’ve always known at Heaven Hill: that our success is built upon the foundation of exceptional people, outstanding products, and innovative programs,” said Co-President Kate Latts.

US Best Managed Companies is part of a global Deloitte Private program. Honorees are selected by an external panel of judges who evaluate applicants based on strategy, ability to execute, culture, governance and financial performance. They join an ecosystem of organizations from more than 44 countries.

Co-Presidents Kate and Allan Latts celebrated this distinguished recognition during the company’s groundbreaking ceremony for their new building to be located at the ShelbyHurst campus in Louisville, Ky. Heaven Hill has doubled the size of its employees since 2018.

The Co-Presidents announced the project last month in a press advisory and hope to move into the completed space by the middle of 2025. The new building, built from the ground up, will boast 48,190 square feet of office space and is designed to feature natural light and top-tier amenities.

“Our new home is designed to bring our entire team together in a space that inspires. It will allow us to foster an even greater sense of collaboration and culture, with flexibility to grow even further,” said Allan Latts, Co-President of Heaven Hill Brands. “It’s more than just a building; it symbolizes our commitment to growth, innovation and collaboration, what we believe are hallmarks of Heaven Hill and our people.”

The move is emblematic of Heaven Hill’s continued commitment not only to the distilled spirits industry, but also to the Commonwealth as the company continues to grow and invest in its employees, communities, and brands. The Louisville community also supports two other important locations – The Evan Williams Bourbon Experience and the Bernheim Distillery. The main operations will continue in Bardstown, along with the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience.

This year, Heaven Hill is also completing a more than $180 million dollar investment in the Heaven Hill Springs Distillery in Bardstown, with hiring ongoing for exciting positions across the state-of-the-art facility. Overall, Heaven Hill has approximately 1,300 employees across the globe working together to achieve their mission to responsibly enhance the enjoyment of life and lift the human spirit. The company’s core brands include Heaven Hill, Elijah Craig, Evan Williams, Larceny, and Widow Jane Bourbons; Lunazul and Ocho Tequilas; and Deep Eddy Vodka. 

NTS Development Company is managing the 815 Building development, construction, and operations. When fully developed, the ShelbyHurst Office Campus is expected to have more than 1.5 million square feet of space in multiple buildings.

About the Best Managed Companies Program

The Best Managed Companies program is a mark of excellence for private companies. U.S. designees have revenues of at least $250 million. Thousands of private companies around the world have competed for this designation in their respective countries through a rigorous and independent process that evaluates four key criteria in their management skills and practices — strategy, execution, culture, and governance/financials. For more information, visit www.usbestmanagedcompanies.com. 

ABOUT HEAVEN HILL BRANDS

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

About NTS

NTS is a full-service, diversified real estate company with apartment communities, commercial properties and residential communities located in 9 cities across the Midwest and Southeast United States. NTS has been providing high quality developments and real estate services for 58 years and currently manages over 10.9 million square feet of real estate including over 5,000 luxury apartment homes and over 3.9 million square feet of commercial property. NTS is committed to providing our residents, tenants and partners with continued excellence in all of our real estate products and services. For more information, visit www.ntsdevelopment.com

*Please see www.deloitte.com/us/about for a detailed description of their legal structure.

-30-

IMAGES: Download here & here

MEDIA CONTACT:
Kaitlynn West

kwest@heavenhill.com

502-413-0230

Posted on

Take Your Best Shot at $25,000 at the Elijah Craig Long Drive Derby Benefitting First Tee – Louisville

Miss your first shot? Get a “mulligan” second shot with a donation to First Tee

Elijah Craig, the official bourbon of the 2024 PGA Championship at Valhalla Golf Club, is proud to partner with First Tee – Louisville to give golf fanatics across the city a chance to win $25,000. Participants ages 21+ can tee up to win the grand prize by hitting a specific target at Topgolf. Miss your first shot? Don’t worry! With a donation to First Tee – Louisville, you can get “a mulligan” – a second shot – at the ultimate prize. Elijah Craig will match donations to First Tee up to $10,000. Elijah Craig will also be serving “The Mulligan” – the official bourbon cocktail of the PGA Championship at the event. The first 500 attendees will receive Elijah Craig golf-themed swag for their participation.

WHAT:  Elijah Craig Long-Drive Derby

WHEN: Monday, April 29, 2024, from 3:00 -7:00PM

WHERE: Topgolf Louisville – 301 Oxmoor Lane Louisville, KY 40222

About Elijah Craig Bourbon: Known as “The Father of Bourbon,” Elijah Craig is credited with being the first distiller to age his wares in charred oak barrels to make Bourbon. The clear, unaged corn whiskey became transformed into a bold amber liquid with a distinctively smooth flavor that makes Bourbon what it is today. Elijah Craig’s community impact continues through Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week, providing total donations of up to $400,000 to date to organizations supporting the hospitality industry. Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and led distillery and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon, the Elijah Craig lineup includes: Elijah Craig Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Elijah Craig Straight Rye Whiskey, Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, and Elijah Craig 18-Year-Old Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Elijah Craig’s accolades have included Whisky Advocate’s Whisky of the Year, Best Small Batch Bourbon and Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and World’s Best Small Batch Bourbon and Best Kentucky Small Batch Bourbon at Whisky Magazine’s 2023 World Whiskies Awards. For more information, please visit www.elijahcraig.com. Heaven Hill reminds you to “Think Wisely. Drink Wisely.”

About First Tee – Louisville: First Tee – Louisville is a youth development organization that enables kids ages 6 to 18 the opportunity to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges. By seamlessly integrating the game of golf with a life skills curriculum, First Tee creates active learning experiences that build inner strength, self-confidence, and resilience that kids can carry to everything they do. First Tee is Building Game Changers through its junior golf programs. In 2023, First Tee – Louisville served nearly 1700 kids through its various programs and has awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships to Louisville Metro Youth. For more information, please visit www.firstteelouisville.org.

-30-

Posted on

Heaven Hill Distillery Announces the Release of the Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond 25th Anniversary Edition

This edition is just the third release in the VVS (Very Very Special) line of the Decanter Series

BARDSTOWN, Ky. (April 2, 2024) – Today Heaven Hill announced the release of the Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond 25th Anniversary Edition commemorating the anniversary of Heaven Hill acquiring the historic Bernheim Distillery (DSP-KY-1) in Louisville, Ky and along with it the Old Fitzgerald brand. Comprised of 13-year-old barrels, this edition ushers in the latest release to the decanter series and adds to Heaven Hill Distillery’s bottled-in-bond legacy.

After the catastrophic fire at the Old Heaven Hill Springs Distillery in November 1996, Heaven Hill acquired the Bernheim Distillery in Louisville in April 1999. The barrels used for this release were produced in September 1999, emptied in March 2013 and bottled in February 2024.  When these barrels were tested in 2013, it was decided that the taste profile at 13 years old was exceptional and the profile would be reserved for a special occasion, such as this 25th Anniversary Edition. Thirteen is also a lucky number for Heaven Hill, as the company filled its first barrel ever on December 13, 1935.  

 “The Bernheim Distillery became the lifeblood of Heaven Hill after the setback from the fire and has been ever since,” said Executive Chairman Max Shapira. “We are honored to have been able to continue the Old Fitzgerald legacy since that time and look forward to many more years of exceptional releases from Bernheim Distillery and from the Heaven Hill Springs Distillery set to open early next year.”

The Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Decanter Series is comprised of three types of releases: Spring, Fall and VVS. This special edition is denoted by a maroon label. Since 2018, there have only ever been two other VVS releases, including VVS 2018 14-year-old and VVS 2020 16-year-old. The 2024 edition will be available in the 750ml size on an allocated basis as an exclusive Kentucky release to select retailers and the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience in Bardstown, Ky. 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. This edition is available at the suggested retail price of $229.99.

The liquid within this release of the Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Decanter Series bares a bright burnished copper color, with a rich and warm nose of cinnamon toast followed by nutmeg and allspice with sweet oak notes. On the palate rich honey and vanilla sweetness are balanced by notes of baking spices. The finish is soft and warm with hints of oak and a gentle peppery finale.

The legendary Old Fitzgerald line is well-known for its distilling pedigree and intriguing story behind its namesake, John E. Fitzgerald, whose legacy is also heralded by the Larceny Bourbon brand. Both brands use Heaven Hill’s wheated bourbon mashbill of 68% corn, 20% wheat and 12% malted barley.

ABOUT HEAVEN HILL DISTILLERY: Founded in Kentucky by the Shapira family in 1935, Heaven Hill Distillery continues its legacy as one of the foremost American Whiskey producers. Heaven Hill has cultivated the traditions and history of America’s Native Spirit with its fierce independence, passionate family ownership, dedication to quality, and thoughtful innovation. Today, Heaven Hill Distillery maintains over two million barrels aging in more than 70 warehouses throughout Nelson and Jefferson Counties. It is home to an award-winning collection of American Whiskeys including Elijah Craig Bourbon, Larceny Bourbon, Evan Williams Bourbon, Pikesville Rye Whiskey, Rittenhouse Rye Whisky, Parker’s Heritage Collection, and Old Fitzgerald along with its extensive Bottled-in-Bond label collection. Heaven Hill Distillery currently holds the title of 2024 and 2023 Whisky Magazine Distillery of the Year and 2023 World’s Best Small Batch Bourbon from the Icons of Whisky, as well as the 2022 Large Spirits Producer of the Year from the Ascot Awards. Heaven Hill Distillery held the title of 2020 Whisky Advocate Whisky of the Year, the second Whisky of the Year for Heaven Hill Distillery in the past four years. In 2019 Heaven Hill Distillery was named San Francisco World Spirits Competition Distillery of the Year, Best in Show Whisky, and previously held the titles of 2018 San Francisco Spirits Word Spirits Competition Best Bourbon, 2016 Whisky Magazine Distillery of the Year. For more information, please visit www.heavenhilldistillery.com.

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

MEDIA CONTACT:
Kaitlynn West
Heaven Hill Distillery
(502) 413-0230
kwest@heavenhill.com

IMAGES: Download here

Posted on

Elijah Craig Bourbon Celebrates the PGA Championship Returning to Louisville, Ky. with a Commemorative Bottle Release and On-Course Activations

Fans will have the opportunity to toast the momentous occasion with a special-edition Elijah Craig Small Batch Kentucky Bourbon bottling available nationwide

(MARCH 19, 2024) – Elijah Craig welcomes the 2024 PGA Championship back to Louisville, Ky. and Valhalla Golf Club after a decade away from the Bluegrass State. To celebrate the Major Championship’s return, Elijah Craig, the Official Bourbon Supplier, will activate the “Elijah Craig Bourbon Speakeasy” on the course for spectators to enjoy as well as release a special Commemorative Edition of its Elijah Craig Small Batch in honor of the 2024 PGA Championship. 

As the Official Bourbon, Elijah Craig will activate onsite during the Championship at the 14th hole of the course aptly named “On The Rocks,” from May 16-19, and during practice rounds. Larger in size and scale than any previous championship, spectators visiting the Speakeasy can taste the distinctive warm spice & smooth flavor of Elijah Craig Small Batch, enjoy hand-crafted signature cocktails, and engage in photo opportunities after signing their name on an interactive signature wall. Throughout the course spectators can also find Elijah Craig featured in a signature cocktail at concessions.  Offsite, area consumers will find displays and engagement opportunities at retail and bar locations promoting Elijah Craig’s exclusive sponsorship. Travelers visiting the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience in Bardstown, Kentucky will enjoy special Elijah Craig golf cocktails and co-branded merchandise to welcome those from near and far. 

A special-edition Commemorative Bottling of Elijah Craig Small Batch is now shipping to select retailers across the country to help fans mark the return of the Major Championship to Elijah Craig’s “backyard” where the brand is distilled, bottled and aged. The bottle will be adorned with a neck label featuring the PGA Championship’s Wanamaker Trophy, a gold coin emblazoned cork showing the 2024 PGA Championship logo and a face label prominently showcasing the “Official Bourbon” designation along with the PGA Championship logo. The barrels for this special release are uniquely pulled from Heaven Hill rickhouses P, 1G and A – to further the ties to Elijah Craig’s Official Bourbon partnership with the PGA Championship and the PGA of America. This one-time offering will become available nationally leading up to the Championship on an allocated basis with a SRP of $36.99.

Speaking about the partnership, Max Stefka, Group Product Director, Elijah Craig Bourbon, said: “The Elijah Craig team is honored to be the Official Bourbon of the PGA Championship at Valhalla. We’re thrilled to mark the occasion with a commemorative edition of Elijah Craig Small Batch and look forward to toasting the best players in the world during this incredible Major Championship just a few miles from where Elijah Craig is distilled and aged here in Kentucky.”

Elijah Craig will further support the partnership with the 2024 PGA Championship with an investment in out of home advertisement in the form of billboards across Louisville and Lexington, Ky. as well as featured ads prominently placed at the Muhammad Ali International Airport in Louisville. Viewers watching the Championship from home will see brand ads running on ESPN+ and CBS during coverage of the event along with digital advertising across social media channels.

”Celebrating the PGA Championship’s return to Louisville, KY, would not be complete without an iconic brand like Elijah Craig,” said Meghan Miller, Director of Corporate Partnerships, PGA of America: “The PGA of America is proud to partner with Elijah Craig as the Official Bourbon of the PGA Championship.”

Elijah Craig continues to leave its mark on the golf world, where it is also known as the Official Bourbon and Whiskey Supplier of the PGA of America, PGA Championship, KPMG Women’s PGA Championship, and an official partner of the PGA National Club Championship. Elijah Craig is also “The Official Bourbon” of PGA TOUR Professional Golfer Max Homa, sports broadcaster Amanda Balionis, and the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am Tournament.

About Elijah Craig Bourbon

Known as “The Father of Bourbon,” Elijah Craig is credited with being the first distiller to age his wares in charred oak barrels to make Bourbon. The clear, unaged corn whiskey became transformed into a bold amber liquid with a distinctively smooth flavor that makes Bourbon what it is today. Elijah Craig’s community impact continues through Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week, providing total donations of up to $400,000 to date to organizations supporting the hospitality industry. Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and led distillery and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon, the Elijah Craig lineup includes: Elijah Craig Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Elijah Craig Straight Rye Whiskey, Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, and Elijah Craig 18-Year-Old Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Elijah Craig’s accolades have included Whisky Advocate’s Whisky of the Year, Best Small Batch Bourbon and Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and World’s Best Small Batch Bourbon and Best Kentucky Small Batch Bourbon at Whisky Magazine’s 2023 World Whiskies Awards. For more information, please visit www.elijahcraig.com. Heaven Hill reminds you to “Think Wisely. Drink Wisely.”

About the PGA of America

The PGA of America is one of the world’s largest sports organizations, composed of more than 30,000 PGA of America Golf Professionals who love the game, are expert coaches, operators and business leaders, and work daily to drive interest, inclusion and participation in the sport. The PGA of America owns and operates numerous championships and events, including major championships for men, women, seniors and the Ryder Cup, one of the world’s foremost sporting events. For more information, visit PGA.com and follow us on X, formerly known as Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

Media Contact
Kaitlynn West

Heaven Hill

502-413-0230

kwest@heavenhill.com

Posted on

Deep Eddy Vodka Sponsors “Certified Scenic City” Designation for City of Buda, Texas 

The local Austin, Texas brand is supporting this move by planting a total of 40 trees between its Distillery and Tasting Room

BUDA, Tx. (February 29, 2024) – Austin’s own Deep Eddy Vodka today announced the sponsorship of “Certified Scenic City” designation for the city of Buda, Texas.  Scenic Texas is a statewide 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of the state’s visual environment. Being a “Certified Scenic City” means the infrastructure standards of the city meet specific sustainability and environmental goals. Deep Eddy is proud to support, beautify and celebrate Buda, where the brand’s distillery is located. In addition to planting 30 trees around the Buda distillery, the Deep Eddy Team also planted an additional 10 trees around the Deep Eddy Tasting Room in Dripping Springs, Texas. 

“We’re thrilled to sponsor this designation for the city of Buda,” said Rachel Nally, Heaven Hill Director of Sustainability and Environment. “Enhancing the environments where Heaven Hill employees live and work is extremely important and a key part of our 2030 Sustainability Goals.”

Trees planted today are all native Texas trees including live oaks, Texas red oaks, Monterrey Oaks, Yaupon Holly, and Texas Cedar Elms.  These trees will not only help provide shade to the Deep Eddy facilities, but also help native animals and insects that rely on native vegetation to survive.  

“Deep Eddy Vodka has been an incredible community partner for the City of Buda and we’re thrilled to have their support for the Scenic City designation,” said Jason Wills, Board Chair of Scenic Texas. “The Scenic City Certification Program is a great honor that recognizes cities for their demonstrated commitment to high-quality scenic standards and their commitment to sustainable practices.”

The Deep Eddy Vodka Distillery in Buda was also recently recognized as one of the Environmental Protection Agency’s first-ever ENERGY STAR certified distilleries in the country. This designation from the EPA recognizes Deep Eddy’s efforts to use significantly less energy and to contribute fewer greenhouse gas emissions than its peers. These efforts are part of Heaven Hill Brands’ broader 2030 Environmental and Sustainability Strategy which focuses on reaching significant milestones by 2030:

  • Drive toward zero carbon emissions by reducing carbon emissions from operations by 30%
  • Use water more efficiently by improving water use efficiency by 15%
  • 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 the planting of 5000 trees of substantial size in local communities, supporting sustainable white oak supply and supporting sustainable agriculture practices.

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 this link.

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

IMAGES: Download here

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

Posted on

LUNAZUL TEQUILA INTRODUCES PRIMERO COLLECTION 

Heaven Hill Brands Welcomes Premium Expressions Primero-Cristalino, Primero-Humoso, and Extra Añejo

Lunazul Tequila – the hand-crafted, 100% Blue Weber agave tequila produced under the masterful direction of Heaven Hill Brands partner Tierra de Agaves and Master Tequilero Francisco Quijano – is pleased to announce its Primero Collection, which includes three distinctive expressions: Primero-Cristalino, Primero-Humoso, and limited release of Extra Añejo. Following a successful soft introduction, Cristalino and Humoso are now available for purchase in markets across the United States, while Extra Añejo will arrive on shelves in the spring. The launch of the collection follows a landmark growth milestone of one million cases sold in 2023. 

“We are constantly looking for new ways to express our creativity, engage with our consumers, and evolve the brand accordingly,” says Quijano. “The past few years have been such an exciting time for tequila enthusiasts, both long-time aficionados and those just beginning to explore the spirit. We hope to keep them on their toes and give them something new to try.”

The Primero Collection comprises Lunazul’s most premium expressions to date. The new line brings with it an elevated new look for the Lunazul family, including new premium glass, a new label featuring Francisco Quijano’s signature, an embossed leather neck wrap for Primero-Cristalino and Primero-Humoso, and a wax dip for Extra Añejo. This elegant new packaging will stand out in any tequila collection or backbar. 

Cristalino, Humoso, and Extra Añejo

Lunazul’s Primero-Cristalino, an aged añejo filtered eight times to achieve a crystal clear color, offers a complex aroma of oak, caramel, and apple with sweet, floral notes. On the palate, a full body of oak, citrus, caramel, and eucalyptus, with a lingering, spicy finish. Embracing the perfect balance found in rare, handcrafted spirits, Cristalino delivers exceptional taste at an accessible price point. Lunazul suggests drinking Cristalino chilled or on the rocks with an orange twist, or for cocktail lovers, in an Espresso Martini or Vesper variation.

Primero-Humoso, translating to “The Smoked One,” features both mesquite-smoked agave and fresh blue Weber agave, creating a one-of-a-kind smoked Blanco Tequila. With semi-viscous and peppery tasting notes and ripe fruit tones, the pour provides a long-lasting and balanced finish with citrusy, smokey, and herbaceous notes. Humoso can be enjoyed on the rocks or in a cocktail such as an Old Fashioned with Chocolate Mole bitters.

Lunazul’s bold, subtly sweet, and delicately spiced Extra Añejo rounds out the collection with caramel and vanilla flavors and a hint of baking spices. The limited batch is aged for 36 months in Elijah Craig Bourbon barrels. Adding this unique step to the aging process helps evoke a finish of cooked orchard fruit with hints of crème brûlée and spicy Mexican dark chocolate. When Extra Añejo hits the market, it is suggested to enjoy a glass neat and paired with a medium bodied cigar, or mixed in a Manhattan variation. 

“The Primero Collection embodies our brand ethos of marrying exceptional quality with approachability,” says Joe Frade, Lunazul’s Global Brand Educator. “Lunazul’s most premium tequilas to date, Cristalino and Humoso were designed to offer complexity and depth of flavor while remaining versatile enough to appeal to a wide range of agave drinkers.”

Cristalino, Humoso and Extra Añejo are also recommended as base spirit substitutes in classic gin, scotch, and cognac recipes, adding an herbaceous and mineral element that only agave spirits can impart. The Primero Collection is sophisticated enough to be sipped neat or chilled, yet its accessible price point makes it a great candidate for premium cocktails. 

Learn More About the Primero Collection

Cristalino and Humoso are available nationally at select retailers, bars, and restaurants across the U.S. Retailers, including online delivery services, may be found on Lunazul’s website. Extra Añejo will be available in select markets for a limited time. 

MSRP

Cristalino and Humoso retail for $37.99 each; Extra Añejo will retail for $59.99. 

To learn more about Lunazul Tequila, please visit the website, Instagram, and Facebook. 

###

ABOUT LUNAZUL: Lunazul Tequila is a hand-harvested tequila made from only the finest 100% Blue Weber agave. Hailing from Tierra de Agaves distillery, which is located in Tequila, Jalisco — the heart of Mexico’s agave country — the brand offers five varieties of tequila to choose from: Blanco, Reposado, Añeįo, Primero-Humoso, and Primero-Cristalino, each representing a traditional, authentic preparation method. Born from the unparalleled expertise and fierce determination of the Beckmann Family, who has more than 250 years of experience in agave spirits and tequila making, Lunazul was founded on the premise of creating an exceptional tequila at a price point that’s accessible for all to enjoy. Lunazul leaders, President Jorge Beckmann and Master Tequilero Francisco Ǫuijano, are helping to carry the torch for the deeply revered, authentic spirit, and they each proudly offer a wealth of expert experience in the world of agave. Follow along at @lunazultequila on Instagram.

Posted on

Heaven Hill Distillery Wins Back-to-Back Whisky Magazine Distiller of the Year Awards  

The 2024 American Icons of Whisky celebrates the largest, independent distillery as best in country at World Whiskies Awards

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (February 15, 2024)– The Whisky Magazine American Icons of Whisky Awards announced Heaven Hill Distillery, the world’s largest, independent American Whiskey distillery, as the 2024 Distiller of the Year at their annual awards banquet in Louisville, Ky. last Thursday. The award marks back-to-back wins for Heaven Hill in this globally acclaimed category. Sustainability Director Rachel Nally was also recognized as Highly Commended in the Sustainability Officer category. This was on top of being named as Sustainable Distiller of the Year in 2023.

The sequential wins emphasize Heaven Hill’s stature in the industry as the largest, independent distillery dedicated to quality and heritage. With more than two million barrels aging across 70 rickhouses, the distillery’s Bernheim facility in Louisville produces over 440,000 barrels of whiskey per year, in excess of 29 million proof gallons. The recognition also showcases Heaven Hill’s continued commitment to the whiskey industry, investing more than $200 million in the new Heaven Hill Springs Distillery in Bardstown, Ky. slated for operation by the end of 2024. Initial production is slated for 10 million proof gallons (over 150,000 barrels) a year and will have capacity to increase production to 450,000 barrels annually. This will be in addition to the company’s current distilling capacity at Bernheim in Louisville.  

The new Heaven Hill Springs Distillery celebrated a major milestone last August with the installation of the first of three stills, crafted in Louisville by Vendome Copper. At 60 feet tall and weighing more than 22,000 pounds, this still is capable of producing 35,500 proof-gallons per day which is equal to more than 500 barrels per day. Crafted from copper, a material celebrated for its role in distillation due to its exceptional heat conductivity, the still represents a marriage of traditional and modern technology. Three Vendome stills of similar size have been operational at Bernheim since the last expansion of the distillery in 2017.

“As the largest, independent distillery, Heaven Hill is proud to carry forth the tradition of distilling American Whiskey and has been since 1935,” said Conor O’Driscoll, Heaven Hill Master Distiller. “The back-to-back Distiller of the Year award is emblematic of our distilling legacy and commitment to producing the best American Whiskeys across all styles.”

The World Whiskies Awards are the global awards selecting the very best in all the international recognized styles, awarding and promoting the world’s best whiskies to consumers and trade across the globe. In 2023, Heaven Hill was honored to win Distiller of the Year, Sustainable Distiller of the Year, and saw National Spirits Special Lynn House recognized as American Whiskey Brand Ambassador of the Year. Also in 2023, Master Distiller Connor O’Driscoll was recognized as Highly Commended Master Distiller along with wins in the categories of World’s Best Small Batch Bourbon and Best Kentucky Small Batch Bourbon for Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C922. In 2022 the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience won Visitor Attraction of the Year along with Director of Kentucky Visitor Experiences Jeff Crowe winning Visitor Attraction Manager of the Year. National Brand Ambassador Bernie Lubbers is also a past winner having taken home the prize for American Whiskey Brand Ambassador of the Year three previous times.

“Being recognized as the best in the industry is an immense honor for Heaven Hill as the largest, independent distillery,” said Chief Marketing Officer Matt Blevins. “We congratulate our colleagues in the industry on their awards and wish everyone the best at the World’s Best competition later this year.” 

Sustainability Director Rachel Nally joined Heaven Hill in 2019 and leads the company’s Environmental and Sustainability Team. An expert in the areas of cultivating sustainable practices and creating highly efficient and compliant operations, Rachel works tirelessly to ensure Heaven Hill is on track to reach milestones in the company’s 2030 Sustainability Goals. Most recently, Rachel’s efforts lead to Heaven Hill achieving not one, but two of the Environmental Protection Agency’s first ever ENERGY STAR certifications for the Bernheim Distillery and the Deep Eddy Vodka Distillery in Buda, Texas.

Posted on

Heaven Hill Distillery Announces 2024 Heaven Hill Heritage Collection Release

This year’s release features an 18-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Heaven Hill Distillery announced today the release of Heaven Hill Heritage Collection 18-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Each spring, this annual, highly limited release features some of the distillery’s oldest inventory of aging whiskey, continuing the standard of excellence Heaven Hill has practiced since 1935.

Each release in the ultra-premium collection features one of the six traditional American Whiskey mashbills produced by Heaven Hill, one of the only heritage distilleries to produce this range. This 2024 edition features Heaven Hill’s Bourbon Whiskey mashbill, comprised of 78% corn, 12% malted barley and 10% rye, and is bottled at 120 proof. With an age statement of 18 years, this release is made up of 133 barrels produced in December 2005 pulled from the third floor of Rickhouse 1I. 

With its subtle nose of dried flowers, black tea and old oak alongside hints of toasted almond, this edition of the Heaven Hill Heritage Collection is sure to be a unique addition to any whiskey collection. A testament to its age, the initial notes on the palate include vanilla and caramel sweetness up front followed by old leather and a note of oak char with lingering peppery spices and orange oil adding to the depth and complexity.  The finish is long, warm, and dry and includes large amounts of spice.

“The Heaven Hill Heritage Collection is our opportunity to showcase some of the oldest stock in Heaven Hill’s incredible inventory of aging whiskey,” says Master Distiller Conor O’Driscoll. “We pride ourselves on having the necessary patience to age, taste, re-taste and select our whiskey at the moment we feel it is perfectly matured. This 18-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey epitomizes what consumers have come to expect from the highest quality of Heaven Hill’s releases.”

Along with its innovation-focused counterpart the Parker’s Heritage Collection, the Heaven Hill Heritage Collection is a testament to Heaven Hill’s patience and ultra-aging techniques.  Releases from both collections offer a glimpse into the long-term plan across Heaven Hill’s American Whiskey stock and commitment to quality, craft, and innovation.

As with the inaugural release, the Heaven Hill Heritage Collection 750ml bottle will be accompanied by a premium box in signature Heaven Hill blue. The updated Heaven Hill Distillery seal is prominently positioned on the box, strip stamp and label, and will mirror that of Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond and a new Heaven Hill line extension launching later this year. A signature of the Collection, specific attributes such as warehouse site location, production date, mashbill percentages, and other designations are noted prominently on the packaging.  Heaven Hill Heritage Collection 18-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey will launch nationally and internationally on a limited basis with a MSRP of $299.99 and will begin shipping in early March 2024.

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

IMAGES: Download here

MEDIA CONTACT:
Kaitlynn West

kwest@heavenhill.com

Posted on

Elijah Craig Returning as ‘Official Bourbon’ of 2024 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am

Elijah Craig Bourbon Speakeasy to feature signature cocktails and engaging consumer activations.

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Elijah Craig Bourbon is proud to return as the “Official Bourbon” of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. One of the fastest growing spirits in the U.S., Elijah Craig has gained a loyal following for its award-winning family of Bourbons and American Whiskeys. The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am has been designated a PGA TOUR Signature Event in 2024. The result is a reimagined tournament and an unbeatable fan experience, with a central focus on the top players from the TOUR competing at Pebble Beach and Spyglass Hill.

As the Official Bourbon partner, Elijah Craig will activate on the Triangle Plaza in the heart of Pebble Beach Golf Links, one of two Monterey Peninsula golf courses making up the tournament grounds. At the Triangle’s “Elijah Craig Bourbon Speakeasy,” spectators can taste the distinctive warm spice & smooth flavor of Elijah Craig Small Batch, enjoy hand-crafted signature cocktails, and engage in photo opportunities after signing their name on an interactive signature wall. Throughout the course at general concessions, fans can also find Elijah Craig featured in the Elijah Craig Signature Old Fashioned. Offsite, consumers in the area will find displays and engagement opportunities at retail and bar locations promoting Elijah Craig’s exclusive sponsorship. Elijah Craig will further support the partnership with an investment in digital advertising and across social media channels.

“Team Elijah Craig embodies the striver mindset of those endeavoring to achieve greatness and master their craft whether that is in the boardroom or the golf course,” said Max Stefka, Elijah Craig Group Product Director. “Players participating in the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am Tournament are the best in their field and we look forward to celebrating their greatness at this PGA TOUR Signature Event.”

One of the most exciting events on the PGA TOUR, the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am is contested annually in front of thousands of spectators and millions of television viewers and features a mix of professional golfers and amateurs. The tournament and host organization, the Monterey Peninsula Foundation, is proud to share that the Foundation donated nearly $18 million to over 200 nonprofits in the Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito counties during their last fiscal year.

Monterey Peninsula Foundation CEO and Tournament Director, Steve John, added “We’re thrilled Elijah Craig is returning to the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Fans and spectators will once again be able to enjoy watching the best names in golf with the best name in Bourbon. We’re grateful for the Elijah Craig partnership and will cheers to another successful year together this week at venues throughout the course.”

With golf consumers twice as likely to drink Bourbon compared to the average consumer, the Elijah Craig Bourbon partnership with AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am offers a strong fit for the brand as it continues to cement its name in the world of golf through the 19th Hole Campaign. The campaign extends the fan experience beyond the course including premium media placements in golf publications, digital and social media, consumer contests, and in-store displays rounding out the 360-degree program. The brand also is proud to be named Official Bourbon of the PGA of America, PGA Championship, Women’s KPMG PGA Championship, and the Ryder Cup as well as “The Official Bourbon” of PGA TOUR Pro Golfer Max Homa and Sports Broadcaster Amanda Balionis Renner.  

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 whiskey became transformed into a bold amber liquid with a distinctively smooth flavor that makes Bourbon what it is today. Today, Elijah Craig’s community impact continues through Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week, providing total donations of more than $400,000 to date to organizations supporting the hospitality industry. Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated distillery and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon, the Elijah Craig lineup includes: Elijah Craig Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Elijah Craig Straight Rye Whiskey, Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, and Elijah Craig 18-Year-Old Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Elijah Craig’s accolades have included Whisky Advocate’s Whisky of the Year, Best Small Batch Bourbon and Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and Excellent Highly Recommended honors at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge. For more information, please visit www.elijahcraig.com. Heaven Hill reminds you to “Think Wisely. Drink Wisely.”

MEDIA CONTACT:
Kaitlynn West
Heaven Hill Distillery
(502) 413-0230
kwest@heavenhill.com

IMAGES: Download here

Posted on

Heaven Hill Distillery Announces Fall 2023 Edition of the Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Series

BARDSTOWN, Ky.(November 27, 2023) – Today Heaven Hill Distillery announced the release of the Fall 2023 edition of Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey at 8 years old. Comprised of barrels produced in Fall 2015, the twelfth national release ushers in the latest edition to the decanter series which adds to the bottled-in-bond legacy.

Bottled in an ornate decanter, the Fall edition is denoted by a black label. 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. This edition is available at the suggested retail price of $109.99.

The Fall 2023 edition of Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey bares a bright burnished copper color, with a nose of brown sugar and toasted bread in addition to cinnamon and nutmeg. The taste is smooth on the palate beginning with notes of peaches and cream, followed by peppery spice and caramel sweetness. Spice notes linger in the finish along with peach and pear notes and a caramelized brown sugar finale.

“As a leader of the Bottled-in-Bond category, Heaven Hill is proud to offer a premium product within this special class which showcases the authenticity and quality of the American Whiskey portfolio,” said Conor O’ Driscoll, Master Distiller at Heaven Hill Distillery. “The Fall 2023 8-year-old Old Fitzgerald Bottled-In-Bond has the best qualities of a classic Kentucky Bourbon with the unique sweetness and spice this beloved brand is known for.” 

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, whose legacy is also heralded by the Larceny Bourbon brand.

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

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

-30-

IMAGES: Download here

MEDIA CONTACT:
Kaitlynn West
Heaven Hill Distillery
(502) 413-0230
kwest@heavenhill.com