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Burnett’s Adds Pink Lemonade to Flavor Franchise

For Immediate Release

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Evan Williams Bourbon extends Professional Bass Fishing tie-in through partnership with Toyota Texas Bass Classic

Nation’s second-largest selling Bourbon brand enters into two year sponsorship to become “Official Bourbon” of prestigious angling event

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Evan Williams, the nation’s second-largest selling brand of Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, has announced a two year partnership agreement with The Toyota Texas Bass Classic (TTBC) that positions Evan Williams as “the official Bourbon of the Toyota Texas Bass Classic.”

Evan Williams Bourbon, produced in Bardstown, Kentucky, will receive significant exposure across all of TTBC’s promotional elements and on a nationally-aired CBS Sports broadcast. The multi-year agreement also provides Evan Williams with additional onsite exposure opportunities, including premier positioning and branded concessions areas at the exposition area.  The TTBC is being held October 16-18 on Lake Conroe in Montgomery, Texas, and is the world championship of the Professional Angler’s Association (PAA) Tournament Series.  It is open to the top 60 Professional Anglers Association competitors who earn spots based on PAA Tournament Series finishes.

Evan Williams began its involvement with professional bass fishing in 2003 through a sponsorship agreement with BASS, and the next year began sponsoring Bassmaster Elite Series pro Jason Quinn.  Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc., producers of Evan Williams, increased their stake in both BASS and in the mediagenic Quinn in subsequent years; for 2009 the brand will be title sponsor of two Elite Series events, including the Evan Williams Dixie Duel on April 2-5; and Quinn’s boat, tow vehicle, hauler, RV and uniform prominently display Evan Williams logo and graphics. Quinn is also a two time TTBC qualifier.

“The Toyota Texas Bass Classic is happy to bring Evan Williams on board as the official Bourbon for 2009 and 2010,” said TTBC Tournament Director Lenny Francoeur. “Evan Williams has a reputation for making the finest Bourbon whiskey around and we are pleased that our legal-age spectators will be able to enjoy it as well as other Evan Williams’ branded items.”

“We at Evan Williams Bourbon continue to invest in bass fishing as a relevant and targeted way to reach both our customers and new prospects,” stated Susan Wahl, Brand Manager for Evan Williams.  “We have seen good returns on our investment in both bass fishing and angler Jason Quinn, our Team Evan Williams leader, since we first became involved seven years ago.  We are very enthusiastic about making a major impression among an audience that, research shows, has such a strong affinity for Bourbon.”

Evan Williams also utilizes national consumer print advertising in core Bourbon demographic titles such as Playboy and Sports Illustrated, but supplements the schedule with insertions in key fishing titles such as Field & Stream, Bassmaster and BASS Times.  The bass
fishing affinity is also carried through to point of sale display materials, which include fishing-themed case cards, on-packs and an in-store Jason Quinn standee display.  Quinn, a four-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier, will also be featured in an Evan Williams bass fishing mini-show on ESPN2 in the fall of 2009.  

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

About The Toyota Texas Bass Classic
The Toyota Texas Bass Classic is sanctioned by the Professional Anglers Association with technical assistance and support from Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Inland Fisheries Division. Title sponsor for the event is Toyota, and Evan Williams is the official Bourbon. The tournament will be held on Buffalo Springs, a planned development in the City of Montgomery. Corporate partnership opportunities are available for 2009. For additional information, visit www.toyotatexasbassclassic.com.  

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Heaven Hill Distilleries, Tierra de Agaves claim multiple Gold, Silver Medals in San Francisco for La Certeza, Lunazul 100% Agave Tequilas

Outstanding Sales Results, Critical Acclaim Continue for Partnership Between Leading Independent Spirits Companies

For Immediate Release

BARDSTOWN, KY–La Certeza and Lunazul 100% Agave Tequilas added numerous Gold and Silver Medals at the most recent San Francisco World Spirits Competition to their outstanding first year sales results.  Distilled at the Tierra de Agaves Distillery, the Mexican spirits company founded by Francisco Beckmann and sons, former co-owner of Jose Cuervo, La Certeza, the super-premium range of tequilas, captured Gold Medals for both the Reposado and Blanco bottlings and a Silver Medal for the extra-aged Anejo.  And Lunazul, the line of 100% Agave Tequilas priced just above the mixto category leader–just recently named a “Rising Star” Growth Brands award winner by the Beverage Information Group–won Silver Medals for both the Blanco and Reposado varieties.  Both Lunazul and La Certeza are distributed in the United States through a partnership between Tierra de Agaves and Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc., bringing together two of the largest and most recognized independent players in the worldwide spirits industry.

“These medals at the world’s foremost spirits tasting competition is further proof of the recognition and impact that Lunazul and La Certeza are having within the tequila category today,” asserted Max L. Shapira, president of Heaven Hill Distilleries.  “Having won the Growth Brand Award after depleting over 20,000 cases in its first year, and given its remarkable $22 dollar average retail price, Lunazul is clearly drawing many former mixto consumers upward into the 100% agave range.  And medals just won in San Francisco for both Lunazul and La Certeza underscore the quality and value of the Beckmann heritage.”

Lunazul and La Certeza are estate-grown, small-batch distilled and bottled approximately 5 kilometers from the town of Tequila in Jalisco province.  Tierra de Agaves is one of the few Tequila distilleries that actually own the land on which the agave is grown and harvested, carefully selected from the 3,500 acres of Weber Blue Agave plants that the Beckmann family and their past generations have controlled since 1758.

“The medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, along with outstanding sales results on Lunazul and La Certeza, lend credence, we feel, to the mission that my family undertook when we founded Tierra de Agaves…to use our family heritage and tradition, along with state-of-the-art production methods and our sizable Agave holdings, to bring the finest tequilas to market at a broad range of price points,” added Jorge Beckmann, president of Tierra de Agaves.

The 2009 San Francisco World Spirits Competition was held on March 21st and 22nd at the Hotel Nikko in San Francisco and is the first comprehensive, international spirits judging ever held in the United States on an annual basis. Founded in 2000 by Anthony Dias Blue, the Executive Director of the San Francisco International Wine Competition and Carol Seibert, the Managing Director of the San Francisco International Wine Competition, the Spirits Competition continues to grow each year in entrants as well as in stature within the industry.  This year over 900 spirits were submitted and evaluated, up from 847 last year, and six out of the seven continents (only Antarctica was missing) were represented, making it a globally influential spirits competition.  Judging is based on blind taste tests and medals are awarded based on taste alone.  To learn more about the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, visit www.sfspiritscomp.com.

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

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

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

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Heaven Hill Distilleries captures

America’s Largest Independent Family-Owned and Operated Distilled Spirits Company is the First to Win the Award in Back-to-Back Years

LOUISVILLE, KY – Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc., the nation’s largest independent family-owned and operated distilled spirits producer and marketer, was voted the best distiller in the United States for the second consecutive time during the presentation of Whisky Magazine’s U.S. Icons of Whisky America on November 11th in Louisville.  The Icons of Whisky “celebrate the people and places behind the greatest whiskies in the world,” according to the organizers, with the judging process taking place in regional heats including the U.S., Scotland, and Rest of the World.  The American winners will now go head-to-head with Scotland and Rest of the World winners, with the final World Icons being announced at a ceremony on the eve of Whisky Live London on February 25th.

In awarding “Distiller of the Year”, Whisky Magazine Editor Rob Allanson lauded Heaven Hill Distilleries for “quietly getting on with the job and releasing some stunning whiskies.”   Heaven Hill was also awarded the same honor last year, marking the first time a distillery has won the award in consecutive years           

The Bardstown-based company, the world’s second-largest holder of aging American Whiskey, produces such critically acclaimed brands as Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage Bourbon, Elijah Craig Bourbon, Rittenhouse Rye, Bernheim Original Wheat Whiskey and the Parker’s Heritage Collection of American Whiskeys, all crafted under the watchful eyes of sixth and seventh generation Master Distillers Parker and Craig Beam. 

Heaven Hill was also awarded “U.S. Visitor’s Attraction of the Year” last year for their Bourbon Heritage Center, which upon its opening in October of 2004 immediately raised the bar for all other hospitality facilities along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.  Heaven Hill went on to capture the worldwide “Visitor’s Attraction of the Year” award, beating out distilleries from America, Scotland, Ireland and Japan.

“It is a major honor to win this U.S. Distiller of the Year award, and to win it twice in a row is indeed affirmation that our commitment to the American Whiskey category is being recognized at the highest levels,” stated Heaven Hill Distilleries President Max L. Shapira.  “As the only remaining distiller that produces all the unique styles of American Straight Whiskey–bourbon, rye, wheat whiskey, and corn whiskey–we take great pride in this recognition and award from Whisky Magazine.  On behalf of my family, of Parker and Craig Beam, and all of our Heaven Hill employees, we are most humbled by and appreciative for this honor.”

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

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

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

 
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Parker’s Heritage Collection 27-Year-Old Bourbon Becomes First American Whiskey to be Awarded “Best of Show” at San Francisco Spirits Competition

Rare Bourbon from Heaven Hill Distilleries outscores all Scotch, Irish Whiskies/eys—and all brandies and Cognacs, as well

BARDSTOWN, KY—In what can be considered the spirits equivalent of the famed “Judgement of Paris” wine tasting of 1976, when American wines first beat out French wines in a major organized tasting, Heaven Hill Distilleries’ Parker’s Heritage Collection® 27-Year-Old Kentucky Bourbon has captured the highest honor ever received for an American Whiskey at the just-completed 2009 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.  In naming the Parker’s Heritage Collection “Best of Show, Brown Spirits” the expert judges concluded that the super-premium, ultra-aged Kentucky Bourbon was superior not only to the full geographic range of the world’s great whiskies/eys—encompassing Scotland, Ireland, Canada and Japan—but also to the exclusive brandies, Cognacs and Armagnacs entered in the world’s foremost spirits tasting competition. 

The Parker’s Heritage Collection 27-Year-Old Kentucky Bourbon, the most recent release in the annual series of rare, limited edition American Whiskeys honoring Heaven Hill Master Distiller and industry legend Parker Beam, is the first American Whiskey to be named “Best in Show, Whisky” and is a trailblazing heir to the last three august winners—Laphroaig (2006), Bowmore (2007) and Highland Park (2008).  But unlike those three legendary Scotch Single Malt Whiskies, the judges further elevated Parker’s Heritage Collection 27-Year-Old to Best of Show, Brown Spirits.  In order to even be considered for “Best in Show” trophies, entrants must first be designated Double Gold Medal winners in their respective spirits categories, meaning every judge on the blind tasting panels must unanimously award it a Gold Medal.

This marks the second major industry award bestowed on the Parker’s Heritage Collection 27-Year-Old Kentucky Bourbon in the past five months, with the brand capturing Malt Advocate Magazine’s “American Whiskey of the Year” at New York WhiskyFest in November.  It is also the third time Heaven Hill Distilleries has captured a “Best of” trophy in San Francisco, having won “Top North American Whiskey Trophy” with Rittenhouse Bottled-In-Bond Rye Whiskey in 2006, and “Best Rye Whiskey” with Rittenhouse 23-Year-Old Single Barrel Rye Whiskey in 2008.    

The 2009 San Francisco World Spirits Competition was held on March 21st and 22nd at the Hotel Nikko in San Francisco and is the first comprehensive, international spirits judging ever held in the United States on an annual basis. Founded in 2000 by Anthony Dias Blue, the Executive Director of the San Francisco International Wine Competition and Carol Seibert, the Managing Director of the San Francisco International Wine Competition, the Spirits Competition continues to grow each year in entrants as well as in stature within the industry.  This year over 900 spirits were submitted and evaluated, up from 847 last year, and six out of the seven continents (only Antarctica was missing) were represented, making it a globally influential spirits competition.  Judging is based on blind taste tests and medals are awarded based on taste alone.  To learn more about the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, visit www.sfspiritscomp.com.

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

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

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

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Hpnotiq Unveils New Packaging

Bardstown, Ky. – Hpnotiq Liqueur will launch a new package design this spring.  The new design is an evolution for the brand which coincides with a new “Girls Night Out” marketing program.

The bottle evolution is a clean, sophisticated presentation of the brand name and ingredients. It is highlighted by the iconic Hpnotiq swirl – a key strategic asset of the brand. The back of the bottle now also provides suggestions for use and an expanded variety of additional cocktail suggestions. The brand maintains many of its key equities including the frosted blue ACL-decorated glass and premium capsule. The update will be made across all product sizes and does not affect the formula for the product.

“Hpnotiq has enjoyed wonderful growth since we acquired it in 2003,” said Justin Ames, Senior Brand Manager. “We took this opportunity to evolve our marketing direction and the product design.  As a result, we have highlighted the most identifiable characteristics without compromising key equities. ”

The new package coincides with the launch of a new marketing program for Hpnotiq.  This spring, Hpnotiq Liqueur will feature a new marketing concept targeting “Girls Night Out” nationwide.  The program is designed to position Hpnotiq as the drink of choice for a fabulous night on the town.  The “Girls Night Out” concept will feature an on- and off-premise marketing mix with support elements delivered via high-energy promotions, POS and print, online and radio advertising.

Hpnotiq, the fourth-largest selling imported liqueur, is the aqua blue liqueur with a refreshing blend of natural exotic fruit juices, super premium Vodka and a touch of Cognac.  The brand’s celebrated launch in 2003 signaled the emergence of the popular fusion liqueur market.

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

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

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CONTACT:
Josh Hafer
Corporate Communications Manager
Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc.
(502) 413-0219
jhafer@heavenhill.com

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Heaven Hill Distilleries’ Bourbon Heritage Center Captures

Attraction Acclaimed as “Beacon for Kentucky Bourbon”

LOUISVILLE, KY – Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc., the nation’s largest independent family-owned and operated distilled spirits producer and marketer, won the “Visitor Attraction of the Year” award during the presentation of Whisky Magazine’s Worldwide Icons of Whisky on February 28th in London. 

 

The Icons of Whisky are “designed to celebrate the people and places behind the greatest whiskies in the world,” according to the organizers, and the winners are drawn from industry nominations who then are “shortlisted” by an independent editorial panel from which the winners are voted.  In order to be considered for the worldwide final, entrants must first win in one of three “regional” finals—in the United States, Scotland and “Rest of the World (including Japan, Canada and Ireland)”.  In October, Heaven Hill captured not only the “Visitor Attraction of the Year” in the US Icons of Whisky regional, but also captured “Distiller of the Year” for the United States as well.  Winners of the three regional Icon Awards then went on to the worldwide final, announced at a gala awards ceremony at the Hurlingham Club in London coinciding with the opening of Whisky Live London.

Heaven Hill was awarded “Visitor Attraction of the Year” for their Bourbon Heritage Center, which according to the citation, “upon its opening in October of 2004 immediately raised the game for all other visitor facilities along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.”  The Icon of Whisky award further praised Heaven Hill’s Bourbon Heritage Center for “continually educating an increasing number of visitors in its barrel tasting room and offering a wide range of tours to suit novice to expert. It is a beacon for Kentucky Bourbon…in 2007 the Bourbon Heritage Center welcomed nearly 50,000 visitors to Bardstown, making it the most visited attraction in the historic Nelson County city.” 

 

Bardstown-based Heaven Hill, the world’s second-largest holder of aging American Whiskey, produces such critically acclaimed brands as Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage Bourbon, Elijah Craig Bourbon, Rittenhouse Rye, Bernheim Original Wheat Whiskey, and the Parker’s Heritage Collection of American Whiskeys, all crafted under the watchful eyes of sixth and seventh generation Master Distillers Parker and Craig Beam.

 

“It was a great honor to have won the Icons of USA awards for both ‘Visitor Attraction of the Year’ and ‘Distiller of the Year’ back in October,” stated Heaven Hill Distilleries Executive Vice President Harry J. Shapira.  “But to come back in the worldwide competition and beat out all the spectacular visitor attractions in such traditional regions as Scotland and Ireland is indeed a very exciting accomplishment for us at Heaven Hill.”

 

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

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

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Cutline: Whisky Magazine Editor Rob Allanson (left) and Contributing Editor Dave Broom (right) present the 2008 Icons of Whisky “Visitor Attraction of the Year” to Heaven Hill Distilleries Bourbon Heritage Center Director of Guest Services Lynne Grant (center).

CONTACT:
Josh Hafer
Corporate Communications Manager
Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc.
(502) 413-0219
jhafer@heavenhill.com

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Evan Williams Bourbon Extends Professional Fishing Tie-in Through Increased Sponsorship with BASS Organization

Enhanced presence for nation’s second-largest selling Bourbon brand to include event sponsorships, exposure through ESPN Outdoors media properties and on-site exposure

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Evan Williams, the nation’s second-largest selling brand of Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, has increased its investment and sponsorship presence with BASS, the worldwide leader on bass fishing, for the upcoming 2009 season.

Evan Williams began its involvement with professional bass fishing in 2003 through a sponsorship agreement with BASS, and the next year began sponsoring Bassmaster Elite Series pro Jason Quinn.  Evan Williams increased their stake in both BASS and in the mediagenic Quinn in subsequent years; for 2009 the brand will be title sponsor of two Elite Series events, including the Evan Williams Dixie Duel on April 2-5, and Quinn’s boat, tow vehicle, hauler, RV and uniform prominently display Evan Williams logo and graphics.  Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc., producers of Evan Williams, will also enjoy enhanced exposure for the brand across all of ESPN Outdoors multi-media assets including ESPN2, Bassmaster Magazine, BASS Times and Bassmaster.com.

The multi-year agreement also includes sponsorship of the Bassmaster Classic, Bassmaster Elite Series, Bassmaster Opens, and BASS Federation Nation.  Evan Williams will also augment its long-time support of the BASS Federation Nation through the BASS Federation Nation Championship and Divisionals, both presented by Yamaha Outboards and Skeeter Boats.

“Evan Williams Bourbon is excited about extending our involvement with BASS through the official sponsorship,” stated Susan Wahl, Brand Manager for Evan Williams at Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc., the producer of the brand.  “We have continuously upped our stake in professional bass fishing, through our sponsorship of both BASS and angler Jason Quinn, our Team Evan Williams leader, since we first became involved seven years ago.  We feel we are supporting an important and growing sport and that we are reaching many of our customers and prospects in a relevant way—research shows that fully 25% of all fishing enthusiasts drink Bourbon.”

Evan Williams also utilizes national consumer print advertising in core Bourbon demographic titles such as Playboy and Sports Illustrated, but supplements the schedule with insertions in key fishing titles such as Field & Stream, Bassmaster and BASS Times.  The bass fishing affinity is also carried through to point of sale display materials, which include fishing-themed case cards, on-packs and an in-store Jason Quinn standee display.  Quinn, a four-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier, will also be featured in an Evan Williams bass fishing mini-show on ESPN2 in the fall of 2009. 

“We are pleased with Evan Williams’ multi-year commitment to BASS and we will provide increased exposure opportunities across all of our event levels,” said Tom Ricks, vice president and general manager, BASS and ESPN Outdoors. “It takes companies like Evan Williams who are committed to BASS and the outdoors to grow the sport.”

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

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

About BASS
For 40 years, BASS has served as the authority on bass fishing. With its considerable multi-media platforms and expansive tournament trail, BASS is guided by its mission to serve all fishing fans. Through its industry-leading publications Bassmaster Magazine, BASS Times and Fishing Tackle Retailer and comprehensive Web properties in Bassmaster.com and ESPNOutdoors.com, the organization is committed to delivering content true to the lifestyle. Additionally, television programming on ESPN2 continues to provide relevant content – from tips and techniques to in-depth tournament coverage – to passionate audiences.

The organization oversees the prestigious Bassmaster tournament trail, which includes the Bassmaster Elite Series, Bassmaster Opens, Women’s Bassmaster Tour and the Bassmaster Classic, the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing. Through its grassroots network, the BASS Federation Nation, BASS sanctions more than 20,000 events annually.  BASS also offers an array of services to its more than 500,000 members while spearheading progressive, positive change on issues related to conservation and water access. The organization is headquartered in Celebration, Fla.

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CONTACT:
Larry Kass
Director of Corporate Communications
Heaven Hill Distilleries
(502) 413-0220

lkass@heaven-hill.com

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Heaven Hill Distilleries Releases 1999 Vintage of Evan Williams Single Barrel Bourbon

The 14th Annual Edition of the Award-Winning Vintage-Dated Bourbon Makes Its Debut in Event for Bardstown Bourbon Society

LOUISVILLE, Ky. –   Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. unveiled its newest vintage of Evan Williams Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, the 1999 Vintage, in a private event for the company’s Bardstown Bourbon Society members.

Heaven Hill, the nation’s largest remaining family-owned, independent spirits producer and the world’s second-largest holder of aging Bourbon, offered a sneak peak of the 14th vintage in the landmark series for 500 society members in an elegant setting at Louisville’s Palace Theater.

The members of the Bardstown Bourbon Society, Heaven Hill Distilleries’ consumer Bourbon aficionado group, came from sixteen different states, all for an opportunity to sample the latest offering from 6th and 7th generation Master Distillers Parker and Craig Beam, tasted both straight from barrel #1 and in its final bottled form.

The world-renowned Single Barrel Bourbon has garnered many prestigious awards, including “Spirit of the Year – American Whiskey” from Food & Wine; “Domestic Whiskey of the Year” by Malt Advocate; and “Whiskey of the Year” by The Spirit Journal, the first Bourbon upon which the publication has bestowed this prestigious title. “Even though the mashbill—the grain recipe—is the same from year to year, we try to achieve a particular flavor profile with each vintage,” noted Parker Beam.  “And judging from the critical acclaim it’s received, it seems like we’ve been pretty successful with the vintage-dated concept behind Evan Williams Single Barrel.”

As with the previous 13 vintages, which are now highly sought after collector’s items, each bottle of Evan Williams Single Barrel 1999 Vintage Bourbon is marked with the exact date that it was placed in oak and bottled, in addition to the exact serial number of the single barrel from which it was drawn.

The 86.6 proof Bourbon is matured in natural open-rick warehouses under the careful supervision of Heaven Hill’s father and son Master Distillers, who monitor the progress of each year’s vintage to ensure it maintains its intended flavor profile and superb quality.  The 1999 Vintage will be available nationally beginning in January 2009 at an average retail price of $25.99 for a 750 ml bottle, leading one noted spirits publication to confess, “Evan Williams Single Barrel Bourbon may be the best value of any whiskey, anywhere.”

Founded in 1934, Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (www.heaven-hill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned marketer and producer of distilled spirits products. Aging in its facilities is the second largest holding of Kentucky whiskey in the world. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio includes: The Christian Brothers Brandies; Evan Williams Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; Whaler’s Rum; Burnett’s Gin and Vodkas; Dubonnet Aperitif; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Água Luca Brazilian Rum Cachaça, Lunazul Tequilas, Scotch Whiskies; Canadian Whiskies; vodka; gins; rums; tequilas; cognacs; liqueurs; cordials; and dessert wines. Heaven Hill is based in Bardstown, KY.
Heaven Hill reminds you to “Think Wisely. Drink Wisely.”

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

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Lunazul 100% Agave Tequilas Enjoy Huge Sales Success After First Year of Launch

Industry awards, critical acclaim, remarkable sales numbers demonstrate timeliness of price-competitive 100% Agave bottlings

BARDSTOWN KY—Lunazul 100% Agave Tequilas, launched one year ago through a joint venture between Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. and Tierra de Agaves S.A. de C.V., has turned in a remarkable first year sales performance.  After only 11 months in the market, it was just named a “Rising Star” Growth Brands award winner by the Beverage Information Group, awarded to brands “less than five full years of age that have exhibited notable growth”. Also, this past spring, Lunazul was awarded a Gold Medal for the Reposado variety and a Silver Medal for the Blanco by the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, the foremost spirits competition held in the United States, besting other 100% agave bottlings costing two to three times as much.

“With depletions totaling over 20,000 nine liter cases in less than one year on the market, it is clear that Lunazul Tequila is the right product at the right time,” asserted Heaven Hill Senior Brand Manager Reid Hafer. “The combination of an award winning 100% agave taste profile and the incredible price point have made Lunazul’s launch an unprecedented success in the Tequila category. At a time when consumers still seek quality and heritage, but are financially squeezed, Lunazul’s incredible first year track record is not at all surprising to us.”

Lunazul is a super-premium 100% agave Tequila offered in both Blanco and Reposado bottlings. While its pedigree and taste profile are top-tier, at $21.99 for a 750ml bottle, Lunazul is actually priced at parity with premium “mixto” Tequilas—those that use only 51% agave in their recipe and replicate the golden hue of barrel-aging through the use of coloring agents. Produced at Tierra de Agaves, the Mexican spirits company founded by Francisco Beckmann and sons, former co-owner of Jose Cuervo, Lunazul gives consumers an affordable means to enjoy a top quality 100% agave Tequila, a great selling point given today’s economic climate and its negative effect on ultra-premium spirits sales.

Lunazul is also available in the 1.75L, 1.0L and 50ml sizes. It is supported by retail and on-premise point of sale that leverages the meaning of Lunazul (“blue moon”) and the wolf imagery with the tag line, “When the night calls.” Lunazul will be increasing marketing activities in the coming year to support the expanded distribution and sales success of the brand.

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

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

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CONTACT:
Josh Hafer
Corporate Communications Manager
Heaven Hill Distilleries
(502) 413-0219
jhafer@heaven-hill.com