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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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.

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.

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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 51st 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 51st 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 68th Kentucky Derby Festival plus the 51st 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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Heaven Hill Distillery Wins Distiller of the Year, Top Awards from 2023 American Icons of Whisky

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

The Whisky Magazine Icons of Whisky Awards announced Heaven Hill Distillery as Distiller of the Year at their annual awards banquet in Louisville last Thursday.  Heaven Hill also took home top honors for all its nominations including Sustainable Distiller of the Year, Lynn House as American Whiskey Brand Ambassador of the Year, Connor O’Driscoll as Highly Commended Master Distiller, World’s Best Small Batch Bourbon and Best Kentucky Small Batch Bourbon for Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C922. As winners and finalists for these categories, Heaven Hill will be considered for the upcoming World’s Best competition in London in late March.  

“This year’s awards were hosted with a difference, bringing the industry’s great and good to Louisville, Kentucky’s The Brown Hotel to announce the winners and commend the people, places and products that stood out from the crowd,” said Phoebe Calver, Editor of American Whiskey Magazine. “It is no mean feat to achieve these accolades and as always it is a joy to share in those moments of success.”

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 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. 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.

Recognized as 2023 American Whiskey Brand Ambassador of the Year, Lynn House adds to her long list of accomplishments in the spirits industry. As Heaven Hill’s National Spirits Specialist and Portfolio Mixologist, Lynn is responsible for supporting the entire Heaven Hill Portfolio with emphasis on on-premise focused brands. Among Lynn’s many awards, last year she was also named “Best U.S. Brand Ambassador” at the 16th Annual Spirited Awards by the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation.

Master Distiller Conor O’ Driscoll was recognized as Highly Commended in the Master Distiller Category. He joined Heaven Hill Distillery as Master Distiller in 2019, then a fifteen-year veteran of Kentucky’s Bourbon industry. Conor leads the distilling and warehousing teams at the Bernheim Distillery in Louisville, the largest independent, family-owned Bourbon distillery in the world. Conor also oversees Heaven Hill Distillery’s portfolio of historic brands, which reflects the rich heritage and tradition of American Whiskey.

Heaven Hill was also honored with the award for Sustainable Distillery of the Year. Director of Environment and Sustainability Rachel Nally and Chief Compliance Officer and General Counsel Jes Pendergrass accepted this exciting award which acknowledged the already impressive strides made towards Heaven Hill’s 2030 Sustainability Goals. These goals will be an integral part of the Heaven Hill Springs Distillery set to open at the end of 2024. The $135 million dollar, state-of-the-art distillery will augment Heaven Hill’s distilling capacity to meet increased global whiskey demand and marks the company’s return to distilling in Bardstown. It has been designed to create a more environmentally conscious distilled spirits industry and ensure a thriving environment for generations to come. Heaven Hill Springs Distillery has been engineered to minimize water use to below industry benchmarks and reuse certain water streams. The site will use native plants and natural systems to manage stormwater runoff and improve habitat on the property. The distillery will also include a wastewater pretreatment system to ensure discharged water exceeds environmental standards and greatly reduces the load on the city’s treatment plant. Heaven Hill also will plan to utilize energy creation and recovery, lessening the distillery’s demand on the city’s electrical grid.

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

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Heaven Hill Distillery Announces Bernheim Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey

This is the first national barrel proof expression for the Bernheim Original line

Heaven Hill Distillery announced today the release of the first national Barrel Proof expression of Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey. Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey is the first wheat whiskey to use winter wheat as its primary grain, creating a soft, sweet flavor. This extension to the Bernheim brand delivers the same familiar smoothness with even more depth of flavor from seven to nine full years of aging. Pulled straight from the barrel and bottled without chill filtration, Bernheim Barrel Proof wheat whiskey in its purest form. Like the original, Barrel Proof is produced at the namesake Bernheim Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky and aged in Heaven Hill’s rickhouses. Bernheim Barrel Proof will be a nationally allocated product which will be released in batches, twice a year. Each release will have its own unique batch number and proof which will vary from edition to edition.

Keeping with Heaven Hill’s commitment to tradition and quality, Bernheim Barrel Proof is made with Heaven Hill’s Wheat Whiskey Mashbill which is comprised of 51% wheat, 37% corn, and 12% malted barley. The A223 batch of Barrel Proof is bottled at 118.8 proof or 59.4% by volume. With a distinct nose of oak staves and fresh bread, this wheat whiskey has initial tasting notes spanning from buttery hints of caramel and honey to the spiciness of cloves. The finish is soft, yet complex with lasting notes of honey and caramel.

“The launch of the Barrel Proof expression of Bernheim Wheat Whiskey is a very exciting one for Heaven Hill,” says Master Distiller Conor O’Driscoll. “We know this is a product consumers want, and we think this batch has the smoothness they’ll recognize from the Bernheim Original, but with an even greater depth of flavor.”

Bottles of this Bernheim Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey will feature the A223 batch number prominently on the front of each bottle next to the Barrel Proof designation. The letter “A” represents the first batch of the year. The first number represents the month of the release with 2 indicating February. Finally, the last two digits indicate the corresponding year with 23 designating 2023. This release is expected to hit store shelves by the end of February with a suggested retail price of $64.99.

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

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Heaven Hill Distillery Announces 2023 Heaven Hill Heritage Collection Release

This year’s release features 20-year-old Kentucky Straight Corn Whiskey

Heaven Hill Distillery announced today the release of Heaven Hill Heritage Collection 20-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Corn Whiskey, the 2023 edition of the Heaven Hill Heritage Collection. Each spring, this annual, highly limited release will feature 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, the only heritage distillery to produce this range. This edition features Heaven Hill’s Corn Whiskey Mashbill, comprised of 80% corn, 12% malted barley and 8% rye, and is bottled at 115 proof. With an age statement of 20 years, this release is made up entirely of 110 barrels produced in October 2002 pulled from the third floor of Rickhouse 1K. 

With its distinct nose of toasted corn and oak spices, 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 aged oak and walnuts followed by a finish of wood spices with hints of corn sweetness.

 “The Heaven Hill Heritage Collection reflects the true craftsmanship, patience and consistency which are hallmarks of Heaven Hill’s whiskey making traditions,” says Master Distiller Conor O’ Driscoll.  “The ability to offer consumers an ultra-aged corn whiskey product is a true testament to the forward-thinking innovation the company has practiced for decades and continues to practice to this day.”

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 with the double-H insignia stamped in gold to signify Heaven Hill. 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 20-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Corn Whiskey will launch nationally on a limited basis with an SRP of $289.99 and will begin shipping on March 1, 2023.

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

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Elijah Craig Partners with Sports Broadcaster Amanda Balionis Renner, Adding to Team Elijah Craig

Elijah Craig Bourbon today announced a new multi-year partnership with sports broadcaster Amanda Balionis Renner. A native Pennsylvanian and whiskey-lover, Amanda’s success both in media and the golf world will now be supported by Elijah Craig as the “Official Bourbon of Amanda Balionis Renner.” Amanda joins Team Elijah Craig alongside PGA Tour Pro Max Homa.

“As a sports broadcaster I’m lucky to cover golf tournaments all over the country and world. One of my favorite things about the game is who I get to enjoy it with—including close friends like Max Homa,” said Amanda. “Our hang outs just got a lot better now that I’m Team Elijah Craig’s newest golf brand ambassador. Max has me beat on the course, but as an avid whiskey fan, I’ve got the edge when it comes to mixing with award-winning Bourbon. I’m looking forward to enjoying Elijah Craig with Max at the 19th Hole and raising a glass with golf fans everywhere!”

Team Elijah Craig embodies the striver mindset, endeavoring to achieve greatness and master their craft. Best known for her work as a sports broadcaster, Amanda conducts interviews on-course with many of the PGA Tour’s biggest stars at high-profile golf tournaments each season. Elijah Craig fans will experience Amanda’s engagement for themselves through integrated marketing campaigns, social media collaboration, and public appearances.

“Amanda Balionis Renner knows that just like fine Bourbon, success doesn’t come overnight. Her grit and determination to achieve her goals make the perfect addition to the Elijah Craig team,” said Max Stefka, Elijah Craig Group Product Director. “We look forward to celebrating golf’s most historic moments with Amanda and a glass of Elijah Craig.”

The Elijah Craig team and 19th Hole campaign extend the fan experience beyond the course. The annual campaign includes 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 “The Official Bourbon” of PGA Tour Pro Golfer Max Homa and the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.

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 over $300,000 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.”

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

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