Press Releases – Page 5

3rd August 20234th August 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14th July 202314th July 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contact:

Kaitlynn West

kwest@heavenhill.com

30th June 202330th June 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MEDIA CONTACT:

Kaitlynn West
kwest@heavenhill.com

13th June 202314th June 2023

Heaven Hill Distillery Launches Square 6 Wheated Bourbon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MEDIA CONTACT:

Kaitlynn West

kwest@heavenhill.com

IMAGES: Download here.

8th May 202324th May 2023

Evan Williams Bourbon Announces 2023 Class of American-Made Heroes to be Featured on Bottles Nationwide

American Hero special edition bottles honor six veterans for their acts of service

Evan Williams Bourbon announced today the 2023 class of veterans selected as American-Made Heroes, recognized as those who are making a difference in their communities and across the country. New this year, the American Hero Edition product will now be a limited release of Evan Williams 1783 Small Batch Bourbon, with each selected veteran featured on a hangtag that adorns more than 135,000 bottles nationwide.

Evan Williams 1783 Small Batch, named for the year that Evan Williams founded Kentucky’s first distillery, is an award-winning, extra-aged small batch Bourbon. This year’s American Hero Edition Bourbon was thoughtfully selected by the 2023 Evan Williams American-Made Heroes straight from the barrels. Evan Williams 1783 Small Batch American Hero Edition is bottled at 90 proof. The suggested retail price is $22.99 for the 750ml and $36.99 for the 1.75L.

Evan Williams embodies the American spirit as an American-owned and made brand and values the leadership and sacrifice of all veterans who protect that spirit. Each of the six selected veterans are affiliated with organizations that were recipients of the 2022 Veteran Community Action Grants awarded by the Evan Williams American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund. First established in 2020, the American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund continues the brand’s support of veteran communities via its Evan Williams American-Made Heroes program, established in 2015. To date, Evan Williams has recognized 54 veteran heroes through the American Hero Edition bottles and has donated $525,000 to nonprofits supporting the veteran community across the country.

“As the second-largest selling Bourbon in the world, we are proud to honor the 2023 American-Made Heroes, who have served our country with courage and dedication,” Molly Vincent, Evan Williams Bourbon Senior Brand Manager said. “The purpose of the foundation is not only to provide a platform for sharing their inspiring stories, but also raising public awareness for causes impacting the veteran community and supporting nonprofit organizations that help veterans and their families.”

The 2023 Evan Williams American-Made Heroes are:

Brian Barber

Oxnard, California

Sergeant E5, U.S. Marine Corps

Inspired by his grandfather, a U.S. Navy cook, Brian enlisted in the Marine Corps as a radio operator, keeping squadrons and artillery units in constant communication with each other to ensure their safety. After being honorably discharged because of a chronic back condition, Brian remained steadfast in his determination to give back to others. In 2015, he founded Mission FISH (Fishing, Interacting, Sharing and Healing) which gives participants the opportunity to develop a community and embrace the healing qualities of nature through group fishing trips. During these expeditions, veterans can connect with each other and share their experiences. To learn more about Mission FISH, visit https://www.missionfishusa.org.

Chaz Koch

Niantic, Connecticut

Petty Officer 3rd Class, U.S. Navy

Chaz was literally and figuratively born into the military. His father was stationed at the Naval Air Station in Keflavik, Iceland, where Chaz was born, though he grew up on the shores of Connecticut. Ultimately, Chaz also found his home in the U.S. Navy. During his tenure, Chaz served as a Master-at-Arms Petty Officer, 3rd Class, in Georgia and Bahrain, and earned the prestigious rank of Expert Marksman in both the pistol and the rifle. In Kings Bay, Georgia, he was an Assistant Squad Leader and PT Coordinator. After completing his service, Chaz coupled his passion for animals with his desire to help those in need and co-founded Operation Paws on the Ground, a nonprofit that rescues dogs from high-kill shelters, trains them to provide support as service animals, and pairs them with veterans in need. This organization also hires veterans as trainers, allowing them to experience the emotional fulfillment of working with animals while securing employment. Learn more about how Chaz and Operation Paws on the Ground are changing the lives of veterans and rescue dogs at https://operationpawsontheground.org.

David E. McCracken

Wake Forest, North Carolina

Colonel, U.S. Army (Ret.)

David served in the Army for nearly three decades. He rose to the rank of commander of the 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne) and won several awards, including the Combat Infantryman Badge. He was also named a Distinguished Member of the 1st Special Forces Regiment. After retiring, David learned that only eight percent of veterans qualify for dental care under the Veterans Administration. In 2018, David founded the Veteran Smiles Foundation, an organization that provides veterans in North Carolina with the quality dental care they deserve. Learn more about how the Veteran Smiles Foundation is giving back at https://vetsmiles.org.

Laura Jeanne

Mineola, Texas

Chief Warrant Officer 3, U.S. Army

As one of the U.S. Army’s first female pilots, Laura paved the way for women in aviation. Laura first served as a helicopter mechanic on her way to becoming a Blackhawk helicopter pilot. Over the course of her ten-year career, Laura completed tours in Germany and Saudi Arabia, and served in the Desert Storm conflict. After a horseback riding accident in 2009, Laura became a paraplegic and worried she’d have to give up her passion of scuba diving. Instead, she helped to establish the Adapt-Able Foundation, which strives to show veterans the peaceful freedom scuba diving can provide. Through their dives, veterans find a sense of independence in underwater exploration, mental healing in the weightless underwater world, and form a community based on trust. To learn more about how the Adapt-Able Foundation is making SCUBA diving an inclusive experience, visit https://adapt-ablefoundation.org.

Mandy Hazelton

Kathleen, Georgia

Master Sergeant, U.S. Air Force (Ret.)

Throughout her 20 years of service, Mandy served as a U.S. Air Force Medical Technician at bases throughout the United States and abroad in Afghanistan and Germany. By the end of her tenure, she had risen to the rank of Superintendent in the 78th Healthcare Operations Squadron. After returning home, Mandy knew she wanted to give back to veterans in her community and saw firsthand how difficult it was for her fellow female veterans to find mental health support, jobs, and housing. Mandy discovered Genesis Joy House, an organization on a mission to improve the quality of life for homeless female veterans. She jumped at the chance to volunteer with the program and become a board member, and volunteers her time to assist with public relations, marketing, and videography. Learn more about Genesis Joy House and their mission to aid female veterans at https://genesisjoyhouse.com.

Susan Wagner

Vail, Arizona

Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman Diver, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

Susan discovered a love of water early in life and realized a career in the U.S. Navy would allow her to pursue her passion. Throughout her 22 years of service, Susan was a key member of dive teams worldwide, including: the Naval Aerospace Medical Institute, Naval Special Warfare GroupTwo, Combat Swimmer Trainer – Debt Little Creek, Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center, Explosive Ordnance Group Two; and Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit-2, where she assisted with recovery efforts from the Space Shuttle Challenger. She earned several commendations, including service medals, the Law Enforcement Life Saving Award, and recognition from NASA. After retirement, Susan became a board member for Smiles for Veterans, an organization dedicated to providing affordable dental care to veterans who are not covered through the Veterans Administration. Learn more about Smiles for Veterans’ dental treatment initiatives at https://smilesforveterans.org.

To learn more about each of the 2023 American-Made Heroes and the American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund, visit https://american-madeheroes.com/.

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ABOUT EVAN WILLIAMS

The flagship Bourbon of Heaven Hill Distillery, Evan Williams is among the leaders in the rapidly growing American Whiskey segment as the world’s second largest-selling Bourbon. Evan Williams is a proud sponsor of Major League Baseball and the World Series, first forming a partnership with the national pastime in 2016. As an American-made and American-owned brand, Evan Williams has recognized true American heroes through their exceptional stories of honor and bravery on special edition American-Made Hero bottles for the past eight years, now supported by the American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund. The Evan Williams Bourbon Experience (www.EvanWilliamsBourbonExperience.com) celebrates the legacy of Evan Williams through an immersive visitor’s center experience which brings to life the history and tradition of Kentucky’s native spirit as an official stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

ABOUT THE AMERICAN-MADE HEROES FOUNDATION FUND

Evan Williams is honored to broaden its support of veteran communities across the country through the launch of the American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund, announced in April 2020. The American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund was established to show Evan Williams’ pride in being American-made and owned, and to give back to those who served. Our purpose is: to provide a platform for sharing inspiring veteran stories; to raise public awareness for causes impacting the veteran community; and to support nonprofit organizations that help veterans through a specialized grant program.

Photo and video assets can be downloaded here

MEDIA CONTACT:
Lauren Newcomb
lnewcomb@heavenhill.com

28th April 202328th April 2023

DEEP EDDY VODKA’S NEW RTD TEA SELTZER PRODUCT DROPS FROM 5,000 FEET

Deep Eddy Vodka + Tea Hard Seltzers launch with three flavors, all made with real vodka and real tea

Deep Eddy Vodka, one of the fastest-growing American-made spirits brands, has announced the launch of its latest hard seltzer line extension, Deep Eddy Vodka + Tea Hard Seltzers. Following the successful entry to the canned ready-to-drink (RTD) segment with the brand’s now award-winning Deep Eddy Vodka + Soda, the new Vodka + Tea Hard Seltzers will be available in a variety of flavors, including lemon tea, sweet tea and peach tea.

“From the first sip, Deep Eddy’s newest tea seltzers are the perfect balance of refreshing and flavorful. Staying true to the brand’s roots, they are made with real fruit and ingredients – never sacrificing great taste,” said Hannah Venhoff, Vice President, Deep Eddy Vodka. “As the hard seltzer category continues to grow and vodka-based seltzers truly take the lead, Deep Eddy is uniquely positioned to innovate in this space, offering new hard seltzers to our lineup for a simple beverage that is light, refreshing and easy. Moreover, the new Tea variety is a nod to our origin story with Deep Eddy Sweet Tea Vodka being the first flavor introduced under the Deep Eddy name.”

Deep Eddy Vodka + Tea Hard Seltzers celebrate the Austin-based brand’s first product, Deep Eddy Sweet Tea Vodka, launched 13 years ago. With an unwavering commitment to quality flavors and real ingredients, the premium hard seltzers are created using real vodka, tea and juices with a hint of bubbles for a crisp finish.

To officially launch the new product, Deep Eddy posted a live “Tea Minus” style countdown on the brand’s Instagram, @DeepEddyVodka, along with multiple posts alerting Deep Eddy followers and the public of its plans to “drop the tea” on its newest product. Once the live countdown struck zero, Deep Eddy released a video featuring a single can of Deep Eddy Sweet Tea Vodka + Tea Hard Seltzer dropping 5,000 feet from a helicopter – taking drop culture, literally, and to new heights.

Each can of Deep Eddy Vodka + Tea Hard Seltzer is 180 calories, gluten free and contains 4.5% alc/vol. The newest Deep Eddy hard seltzers are available nationwide in a 6-pack variety with a suggested retail of $16.99. Learn more about Deep Eddy Vodka + Tea Hard Seltzer and find the closest retailer at deepeddyvodka.com.

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

Media Contact:

Lauren Newcomb

lnewcomb@heavenhill.com

26th April 202326th April 2023

Elijah Craig Becomes a Worldwide Supplier and the Official Bourbon of the Ryder Cup

Ryder Cup Europe and the PGA of America announced today a multi-year partnership that makes Elijah Craig the “Official Bourbon” and a Worldwide Supplier of the Ryder Cup. The Elijah Craig partnership will be showcased at the 2023 Ryder Cup, which takes place at Marco Simone Golf and Country Club in Rome from Sept. 29 – Oct. 1, and the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, New York.

Elijah Craig is credited as the “Father of Bourbon” for being the first to char oak barrels to make bourbon and inspires today’s award-winning family of whiskeys. Elijah Craig Bourbon and Rye Whiskey, as well as a custom Ryder Cup signature cocktail will be available course-wide at each event. Spectators will experience Elijah Craig through a prominent digital media presence across the PGA of America’s and Ryder Cup’s social and digital channels including custom content, run-of-site media and authentic integration across social platforms. Ryder Cup and Bourbon enthusiasts will also have the opportunity to purchase special bottlings of Elijah Craig to commemorate the 2023 Ryder Cup.

First established in 1927, the biennial competition pits 12 of the top professional golfers from the U.S. and Europe against each other in a head-to-head match play competition and has become one of the world’s greatest sporting events, captivating an audience of millions around the globe to watch the Ryder Cup. Elijah Craig continues to leave its mark on the golf world, where it is also 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 also serves as the “The Official Bourbon” of PGA TOUR Professional Golfer Max Homa and sports broadcaster Amanda Balionis Renner.

Speaking about the new partnership, Max Stefka, Group Product Director, Elijah Craig Bourbon, said: “It’s an honor to pair Elijah Craig’s quality craftsmanship with the unparalleled history of the Ryder Cup. Few events across the world inspire such passion and pride, and we look forward to celebrating every moment over a glass of Elijah Craig.”

Guy Kinnings, Ryder Cup Director, said: “The Ryder Cup is renowned for its incredible atmosphere and this is helped by world class hospitality for our spectators. As one of the world’s top tourist attractions and a first-time host, Rome promises to be a special occasion this September. Elijah Craig Bourbon will be a fantastic addition to our partner community and we look forward to working together to bring their product range to our spectators.”

Jeff Price, Chief Commercial Officer of the PGA of America, added: “Elijah Craig’s presence at the 2023 Ryder Cup will be a great enhancement to the overall spectator experience. As one of the most prestigious events in sports, we are delighted to have Elijah Craig Bourbon and its unparalleled taste and quality as part of the Ryder Cup festivities at Marco Simone and Bethpage.”

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About Elijah Craig Bourbon

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

About Ryder Cup Europe

Ryder Cup Europe – which comprises representatives of the European Tour (60%), of the PGA of Great Britain and Ireland (20%) and the Confederation of Professional Golf through the vehicle of the Ryder Cup European Development Trust (RCEDT) (20%) – owns the rights of the Ryder Cup when the competition is held in Europe.

The European Tour is the Managing Partner and has prime responsibility for all matters concerning the European Team; the PGA of Great Britain and Ireland is the Founding Partner; and the Confederation of Professional Golf is responsible for the management of the Trust, which is the Development Partner.

Our Worldwide Partners for the 2023 Ryder Cup are Aon, BMW, Capgemini and Rolex.

About PGA of America

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

Media Contact
Lauren Newcomb, Heaven Hill, lnewcomb@heavenhill.com

5th April 20235th April 2023

Heaven Hill Distillery Named 2023 Global Icon of Whisky Distiller of the Year

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof named World’s Best Small Batch Bourbon

The Whisky Magazine Icons of Whisky awards announced Heaven Hill Distillery as the 2023 Global Distiller of the Year. The award was announced in London on March 30 at the Whisky Magazine Awards 2023, celebrating the very best people and places in the industry. Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C922 was previously named World’s Best Small Batch Bourbon at the American Icons of Whisky Awards on February 9 in Louisville, Ky.

Previously announced as a 2023 American Icon of Whiskey Distiller of the Year, Heaven Hill Distillery was voted amongst an esteemed panel of judges to best this year’s finalists. Since 1935, 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 1.9 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, Heaven Hill Heritage Collection and Old Fitzgerald along with its extensive Bottled-in-Bond collection including its namesake Bourbon. Heaven Hill also invites more than 200,000 visitors per year through the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience and Evan Williams Bourbon Experience.

Announced in June 2022, Heaven Hill is celebrating a return to distilling in Bardstown after breaking ground on the Heaven Hill Springs Distillery. Initial production at the state-of-the-art distillery is slated for 150,000 barrels a year after opening in 2024, and over time will have capacity to ramp up to producing 450,000 barrels annually. This will be in addition to the company’s distilling that occurs at the historic Bernheim Distillery in Louisville, which will continue to operate at full capacity of 450,000 barrels annually.

“We’re honored to celebrate our contributions to distilling tradition, as well as continue to make an impact in innovation as we invest in the future of American Whiskey with the new Heaven Hill Springs Distillery,” said Conor O’Driscoll, Heaven Hill Distillery Master Distiller. “I’m proud to salute our legacy of distillers who helped build our brands over the years and look forward to the next generation of craft and quality from Heaven Hill Distillery.”

As noted by Christopher Coates, editor of Whiskey Magazine, “The 17th annual Icons of Whisky awards saw the stiffest competition yet. The experiences offered by the top whisky bars, retailers and attractions today are truly world-class – and have become bywords for hospitality and tourism excellence beyond just the drinks sphere.”

Several Heaven Hill brands were also recognized during the American World Whiskies Awards and Icons of Whisky presentation. Notable awards include Sustainable Distillery of the Year, Lynn House as American Whiskey Brand Ambassador of the Year, and Connor O’Driscoll as Highly Commended Master Distiller. More information, including silver and bronze medalists, can be found at www.worldwhiskiesawards.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Lauren Cherry Newcomb
Heaven Hill Distillery
lnewcomb@heavenhill.com

28th March 202328th March 2023

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

New partnership will elevate the championship experience

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About PGA of America

About Elijah Craig Bourbon

1st March 20231st March 2023

Evan Williams Bourbon Experience Releases Annual, Limited Edition Kentucky Derby Festival Bourbon Bottle

The 2015 Vintage, 119 proof Bourbon is dipped in iridescent teal wax and features the 51^st Edition Gold Pegasus Pin on the bottle neck

As an official sponsor of the Kentucky Derby Festival for the seventh consecutive year, the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience today released a special edition bottle of Evan Williams Single Barrel Bourbon with a commemorative 51^st Edition Gold Pegasus Pin sealed in wax on the neck.

Dipped in an iridescent teal wax, the bottle features a special face label with the coordinating teal and gold Kentucky Derby Festival logo and includes an official 2023 Pegasus Pin in an envelope attached to each bottle. Evan Williams Bourbon Experience Artisanal Distiller, Jodie Filiatreau, and Kentucky Derby Festival President and CEO, Matt Gibson, unveiled the official 2023 pin and limited-edition bottle at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience by personally hand-dipping two of the 800 limited-edition bottles.

Beginning February 24, the Bourbon will be available for purchase at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience for $79.99 and at select area retailers while supplies last. The limited edition 2015 vintage is bottled at 119 proof, commemorating both the 68^th Kentucky Derby Festival plus the 51^st year for the Pegasus Pin. Each bottle of Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage Bourbon contains the exact day it was put in an oak barrel to age, the barrel number, and the date it was bottled.

“Partnering with the Kentucky Derby Festival for this annual tradition is extremely special for us at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience,” said Jodie Filiatreau, Evan Williams Bourbon Experience Artisanal Distiller. “We’re proud to play a role in helping make the Derby season the most exciting time of year for Louisville and for everyone who comes here to celebrate from across the Commonwealth.”

The Bourbon is matured in Heaven Hill’s rickhouses under the careful supervision of Master Distiller Conor O’ Driscoll, who monitors 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.

“Our partnership with Evan Williams pairs two of Kentucky’s favorite things – the Derby Festival celebration and bourbon,” said Matt Gibson, Kentucky Derby Festival President and CEO. “We know this special edition bottle will be popular with pin collectors and Festival Fans alike.”

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 March 16 – May 5.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Kaitlynn West

Heaven Hill
kwest@heavenhill.com

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