Kentucky Bourbon Trail

THE BOURBON RENAISSANCE: NEW STUDY PRESENTS PROOF OF SIGNATURE INDUSTRY’S RESURGENCE

February 02, 2012

THE BOURBON RENAISSANCE: NEW STUDY PRESENTS PROOF OF SIGNATURE INDUSTRY’S RESURGENCE

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Gov. Steve Beshear today unveiled a new study that shows Kentucky’s Bourbon industry is helping carry the Commonwealth through the economic crisis by adding jobs, investing millions in distillery operations and attracting more tourists than ever before.

At a Capitol press conference, Gov. Beshear called Bourbon “a homegrown gem and a bright spot in a struggling economy. This signature industry has proven to be very stable and a key driver in our efforts to diversify our economic base.”

The study – conducted by Dr. Paul Coomes, an economist at the University of Louisville – found an amber wave of capital investments in the last three years due to the growing global demand for Bourbon and the skyrocketing popularity of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tourism attraction.

Recent investments in new distilleries, warehouses, advanced manufacturing equipment and surging visitor’s centers have translated into more jobs, increased exports and $338 million in additional tax revenue since 2008, Gov. Beshear said.

“It’s a thriving industry and a success story that we’re proud to tell,” he said.

Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer has been working with distilleries to bring more Bourbon tourism experiences to the Louisville market. He said the impressive study proves Bourbon “isn’t just a drink anymore. It’s a culture, a lifestyle and an essential part of our tourism efforts.”

The study determined that visitors who tour Kentucky Bourbon Trail® distilleries are affluent and overwhelmingly come from outside the Bluegrass, which leads to multi-night hotel stays and more dollars spent in local communities.

On average, tourists who visit all six distilleries spend about $737 each, the study found. That’s a total economic impact of $18.4 million in the last four years alone, given that more than 25,000 people have completed the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tour since 2007.

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg, Mayor Fischer said, since the study relied on data from people who have toured all six and filled out a commemorative Passport. Distilleries have actually recorded more than 2 million visits in the last five years.

“The Kentucky Bourbon Trail is changing the face of Kentucky tourism,” Mayor Fischer said. “While many states are creating wine trails, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is the only one of its kind in the world. The impact is real and the opportunities are endless.”

Other major findings include:

• Distilling contributes nearly $2 billion in gross state product each year, and has more than doubled its importance to the state’s overall economic activity in the last 13 years.

• In the last decade, distilling created 4 percent new job growth while the rest of Kentucky’s broader manufacturing base was shrinking.

• There are 4.7 million barrels of Bourbon aging in Kentucky – the largest inventory since the 1980s. That means there are more barrels of Bourbon in Kentucky than people (4.3 million).

• Bourbon is the largest export category of all U.S. spirits, shipping 28.7 million proof gallons to 126 different countries in 2010 (up from 25 million gallons in 2008).

• Kentucky remains the center of the Bourbon universe, producing 95 percent of the world’s supply. However, there is fresh competition with new micro-distilleries (called “Craft” distilleries) opening around the country.

• About 9,000 people owe their paychecks to the distilling industry, with a total annual payroll of $413 million.

• Kentucky hosts 43 percent of all distilling jobs and 48 percent of payroll in the U.S.

• Distilling is a significant job creator, with one of the highest spin-off factors in the state. It ranks 4th out of 244 manufacturing industries in total employment and job multiplier.

• Distilleries and their employees have contributed millions to charities and volunteered thousands of hours of time to improve the quality of life in their communities and in efforts to fight underage drinking, drunk driving and alcoholism.

• State and local governments receive $126 million in taxes every year from spirits production and consumption.

• Kentucky taxes spirits higher than any other open market state except Alaska and Illinois.

All signs point to more growth on the horizon, said David Adkisson, President and CEO of the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce. In addition to expansion discussed in the study, he said several “Craft” distilleries have opened in the Commonwealth.

“Now is the time for state government to nurture this new growth and to create a path for larger investments by our emerging and historic distilleries,” he said. “And that lies in tax reform to create a level playing field in the global marketplace.”

Adkisson pointed to the ad valorem tax that’s assessed each year on aging Bourbon barrels in Kentucky warehouses. It is the only such tax in the world and is not assessed on any other alcoholic beverage such as beer, vodka, wine, Scotch – and even Tennessee whiskey.

“This is a Kentucky-only tax that discriminates against our signature Bourbon industry, and it’s a tax that state government should give serious consideration to fixing,” he said. “We cannot keep putting our Bourbon industry over a barrel when it comes to global competition.”

The ad valorem tax is one of seven taxes levied on every bottle of spirits in Kentucky, with a whopping 60 percent of every bottle going to taxes, the study reported. Tennessee – second only to Kentucky in whiskey production – taxes spirits at two-thirds the rate as Kentucky.

Dr. Coomes also found that California, which dominates wine production in the U.S., ranks near the bottom with one of the lowest wine excise taxes. Similarly, the top beer states – Missouri, Colorado and Wisconsin – also rank near the bottom with some of the lowest beer taxes.

Coomes, one of the region’s most respected economists, is a professor of economics at the University of Louisville’s College of Business and Public Administration. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Texas.

Jeff Conder, Chairman of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association that commissioned the study, said the report clearly shows that the Bourbon industry provides benefits for all of Kentucky through jobs, tourism and tax revenue. Conder is Vice President of Americas Operations at Beam, Inc.

He cautioned the crowd of legislators and industry executives to not become complacent in this unprecedented phase of growth and success. “It wasn’t that long ago that Bourbon had fallen on hard times,” he said.

“This is a great day and we should all be proud of this success in a depressed economy,” he said. “But let’s not repeat the mistakes of the past and take this industry for granted. The Bourbon industry is too important to the Commonwealth, our history, our heritage and our future.

“Let’s all commit – today – to keep this momentum going, to continue building on our achievements and to ensure that Kentucky remains the one, true and authentic home for the world’s greatest Bourbon.”

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The complete report is online at http://www.kybourbon.com.

For additional information, contact KDA President Eric Gregory at (502) 875-9351.

The KDA and its member distilleries urge consumers to drink responsibly and never drink and drive. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail® is a registered trademark of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association. Visit online at http://www.kybourbontrail.com.

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KENTUCKY DISTILLERS’ ASSOCIATION WELCOMES NEW KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL® MANAGER

January 30, 2012

KENTUCKY DISTILLERS’ ASSOCIATION WELCOMES NEW KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL® MANAGER

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced that Adam Johnson has joined the group as the first-ever Manager of the KDA’s famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® experience.

Johnson, 36, has been Executive Director of the Danville/Boyle County Convention and Visitors Bureau since 2006. He previously was Assistant Director of Annual Giving for Centre College in Danville, where he graduated in 1997.

“We’ve been impressed with Adam’s ability to work across county lines and create tourism strategies that benefit his community and all of Kentucky,” said KDA President Eric Gregory. “He is well-respected and has a passion for our signature Bourbon industry. It’s a perfect fit.”

Johnson has elevated Danville’s tourism presence by utilizing social media to increase awareness, and he has created numerous events like Oktoberfest and “Bourbon and Brass” to attract visitors and generate community support.

“Danville doesn’t have a distillery in its back yard, but we’ve been able to leverage the popularity of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail program to significantly grow tourism traffic,” Johnson said.

“That’s a big part of my vision for my new role – to be a resource for communities and the hospitality industry as we build the Kentucky Bourbon Trail adventure into a world-class attraction.”

A native of West Point, N.Y., Johnson will continue to reside in Danville with his wife, Krista Rinehart, and their daughter, Campbell.

As Kentucky Bourbon Trail® Manager, Johnson will be charged with strengthening partnerships among the Bourbon and tourism industries; working with member distilleries to responsibly manage tourism growth and solidifying Kentucky as the authentic home for Bourbon.

“More people than ever are visiting the Bluegrass because of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail tour, so we needed someone dedicated solely to promoting Bourbon tourism,” Gregory said. “It’s a great job and a historic industry, and we’re excited to welcome Adam to the team.”

Created by the KDA in 1999, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tour features six distilleries, each offering a unique and educational experience on crafting the world’s finest Bourbon: Four Roses, Heaven Hill, Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark, Wild Turkey and Woodford Reserve.

Kentucky Bourbon Trail® distilleries recorded more than 450,000 visits in 2011, and the Passport program – which rewards visitors who tour all six stops – shattered its previous record with 11,757 completions. Visitors came from all 50 states and 16 countries, the KDA reported.

The KDA, a non-profit group founded in 1880, is the state’s leading voice on spirits issues, from taxes to tourism, technical matters and more. Members include Beam Inc. (Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark), Brown-Forman Corp., Diageo North America, Four Roses, Heaven Hill and Wild Turkey. Craft members include Alltech, Barrel House Distilling and MB Roland Distillery.

Visit online at http://www.kybourbon.com and http://www.kybourbontrail.com.

Johnson can be reached at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

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For more information, contact KDA President Eric Gregory at (502) 875-9351.

Please drink responsibly and never drink and drive.

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail® is a registered trademark of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association.

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KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL® GROUP ROLLS OUT BIKE ROUTES

January 26, 2012

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Looking for a new way to explore the legendary distilleries of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® adventure?

Now you can – by bike.

The Kentucky Distillers’ Association and the Bluegrass Cycling Club have teamed to provide back-road routes for the famous tour through the rolling hills and scenic countryside of Central Kentucky.

KDA President Eric Gregory said maps and cue sheets are now available for download on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® website (http://www.kybourbontrail.com) under the “Map and Guide” tab. Links also are available on the BCC website at http://www.bgcycling.org.

“We’ve been surprised at the growing number of requests for bicycling routes,” Gregory said. “So we turned to the experts who know the rural roads and who know the roads that work best for bicyclists.”

Pam Thomas, Secretary of the non-profit cycling club, said, “Members of the Bluegrass Cycling Club are thrilled to be involved in the development of bike routes that guide riders to individual member distilleries comprising the Kentucky Bourbon Trail tour.

“The various route options provide experienced cyclists with a unique ride opportunity unavailable anyplace else in the world. What could be better than riding a bike while learning about the art and science of making Bourbon!”

The KDA and the BCC ask all riders to exercise caution and follow all traffic laws. Please make sure to check road conditions and construction prior to embarking on your ride. Always wear helmets and have a cell phone for emergency communications.

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For more information, contact KDA President Eric Gregory at (502) 875-9351 or BCC Secretary Pam Thomas at (859) 312-6395. Visit online at http://www.kybourbontrail.com and http://www.bgcycling.org. Please drink responsibly and never drink and drive.

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail® is a registered trademark of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association.

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EVAN WILLIAMS CINNAMON RESERVE™ FLAVORED BOURBON TO BE LAUNCHED IN FEBRUARY

January 23, 2012

EVAN WILLIAMS CINNAMON RESERVE™ FLAVORED BOURBON TO BE LAUNCHED IN FEBRUARY

New Cinnamon flavor closely follows the runaway success of Evan Williams Honey and Cherry Reserves

BARDSTOWN, KY—Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc., the country’s largest independent family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer, announces the

release of Evan Williams Cinnamon Reserve Kentucky Liqueur, a new product that marries extra-aged Evan Williams Bourbon with natural hot cinnamon flavor. Bottled at 70 proof and available in both a 750ml and 50ml size, Evan Williams Cinnamon Reserve will be shipping nationally in February at a suggested retail price of $14.99 for the 750ml bottle.

The launch of Evan Williams Cinnamon Reserve follows closely on the heels of the hugely successful introduction of Evan Williams Honey Reserve, which launched in the Fall of 2009, and Evan Williams Cherry Reserve, which debuted in 2010. Since that time, both have enjoyed great sales success and critical acclaim, including winning a Silver Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and being named a “Hot Prospect” brand. Evan Williams Cherry and Honey Reserves, and now Cinnamon Reserve, take advantage of established trends in the distilled spirits industry in general and the American straight whiskey category in particular. Among these is the ongoing success and growth of flavored spirits, as well as the continued popularity of Bourbon, especially Evan Williams, which showed the greatest sales percentage increases among high volume brands since 2008, according to A.C. Neilsen. Heaven Hill fully anticipates that infusing Evan Williams extra-aged Bourbon, the second largest selling Bourbon brand in the United States and the world and a “Best Buy Whiskey of the Year” winner, with natural hot cinnamon flavor will yield similar success as that achieved with Evan Williams Honey and Cherry Reserves.

Like the Honey and Cherry Reserves, Evan Williams Cinnamon Reserve is packaged in the highly-recognizable square Evan Williams bottle, with a clear label carrying the Evan Williams logo and a stylized rendition of cinnamon sticks bursting through flames. With a black and orange capsule closure, the packaging draws on the equity of the Evan Williams brand franchise, but with a contemporary flair. Bottled at an approachable 70 proof, and infused with natural hot cinnamon taste that complements the easy-to-drink Bourbon flavor, Evan Williams Cinnamon Reserve lives up to its tagline of “Intensely cinnamon. Incredibly smooth.”

“The launch of Evan Williams Honey and Cherry Reserve has exceeded our expectations,” stated Assistant Brand Manager Hannah Venhoff. “Given the strength of the Evan Williams brand franchise and the proven success of the flavored Bourbon sub-category, we believe it is the perfect time in which to launch Evan Williams Cinnamon Reserve. And with a very approachable price point and a full range of retail and on-premise marketing materials available, we are expecting this brand launch to be red-hot!”

To help merchandise the brand, Evan Williams Cinnamon Reserve is supported by an array of retail promotional materials—including shelf talkers, case cards, and a 50ml counter unit—allowing off-premise operators to create impactful displays that will capture consumer attention. In order to generate sampling in bars and restaurants, on-premise POS including T-shirts and shot glasses will also be made available. A targeted trade advertising schedule will also help create awareness among the key retail and on-premise audiences, and a consumer ad schedule in popular consumer magazines such as Sports Illustrated, Maxim and Rolling Stone will feature the flavored Evan Williams Reserves, including the new Cinnamon Reserve, in national print ads alongside Evan Williams Bourbon. All materials utilize striking visuals and the “Intensely cinnamon. Incredibly smooth.” positioning, rendered in fiery orange and black graphics. Support materials also emphasize that Evan Williams Cinnamon Reserve can be consumed as a shot or in a variety of delicious simple cocktails such as the Southern Cin, Blazin’ Ale and Sweet Apple Spice.

Founded in 1934, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (http://www.heavenhill.com

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

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CONTACT:
Larry Kass
Director of Corporate Communications
Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc.
(502) 413-0220
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

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KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL® TOUR SHATTERS PASSPORT RECORD

January 12, 2012

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Another year, another milestone for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® adventure.

A record 11,757 people visited all six distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tour in 2011, far surpassing the previous mark of 9,402 set in 2010, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association announced today. Visitors came from all 50 states and 16 countries, the KDA reported.

“This is great news for our distilleries, our local communities and our Commonwealth,” said KDA President Eric Gregory. “People from all corners of the world are pouring into Kentucky to visit our legendary distilleries and to explore the rich history of Kentucky Bourbon.

“We’re extremely proud of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® experience and its growing economic and tourism impact. This is further proof that Kentucky Bourbon is a vital part of our history, our culture, our economy and our future.”

Created by the KDA in 1999, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tour features six distilleries, each offering a unique and educational experience on the art and craft of Bourbon-making: Four Roses, Heaven Hill, Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark, Wild Turkey and Woodford Reserve.

In 2007, the KDA launched its souvenir “Passport” program to reward visitors with a complimentary T-shirt once they complete tours of all Kentucky Bourbon Trail® distilleries. Since then, more than 25,000 people have finished the tour.

Other key statistics from 2011 include:

• Kentucky led the way with 2,067 completed Passports, followed by Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Tennessee. The Buckeye State almost caught up to Kentucky with 2,001 completed Passports.

• Passports came from 16 countries, including Australia, Canada, England, France, Germany, Hungary, Israel, Italy, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States.

• The Kentucky Bourbon Trail® website recorded more than one million page views from 172,000 people in 132 countries. The website is http://www.kybourbontrail.com.

“We’re proud that Kentucky is the birthplace of Bourbon and the only place in the world where visitors can enjoy the authentic Bourbon experience,” Gregory said. “The tremendous success of our Kentucky Bourbon Trail tour is a remarkable tribute to the growing popularity of our signature spirit.”

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For more information, contact KDA President Eric Gregory at (502) 875-9351 or visit online at
http://www.kybourbon.com or http://www.kybourbontrail.com. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail® is a registered trademark of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association.

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SKYY SPIRITS CHANGES NAME TO CAMPARI AMERICA

January 11, 2012

SKYY SPIRITS CHANGES NAME TO CAMPARI AMERICA
Company Aligns More Closely with Gruppo Campari,
Puts Emphasis on Expanding Portfolio of Award-Winning Brands
SAN FRANCISCO (January 11, 2012)—Beginning January 2012, Skyy Spirits, the wholly owned subsidiary of Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A. (Reuters CPRI.MI - Bloomberg CPR IM), will change its public identity in the US, Canada, and Puerto Rico to Campari America. This name change simultaneously aligns the company more closely with its Milan-headquartered parent corporation and its affiliates, collectively known as Gruppo Campari, and better reflects the full scale of San Francisco-based Campari America’s growing spirits portfolio.
“Even though our portfolio has grown over the past several years to include vodkas, rums, whiskies, tequilas, cordials and liqueurs, the Skyy Spirits company name was inherently associated with only one brand – SKYY® Vodka. We felt the time was right to make the switch to Campari America, further demonstrating the breadth and depth of our products, while at the same time more closely associating ourselves with the vast resources of our parent company,” said Gerry Ruvo, Campari America Chairman and CEO.
Campari America’s portfolio includes leading brands praised by bartenders, retailers, and consumers alike, such as the innovative SKYY Infusions® line of vodkas; award-winning Espolón® and Cabo Wabo® Tequilas; Wild Turkey® Straight Kentucky Bourbon and American Honey®; and, of course, the iconic Campari® and SKYY Vodka. The company is also the exclusive U.S. distributor of a diverse portfolio of whiskies, rums and liqueurs from Suntory, Morrison Bowmore Distillers, Berry Brothers & Rudd, and Compañía Licorera de Nicaragua.
Over the past 15 years, Gruppo Campari’s global reach has increased dramatically. Part of this growth has been fueled by both brand and company acquisitions in key markets, such as the purchase of Skyy Spirits, LLC in 2002 and the Wild Turkey brand and distillery in 2009. Currently, Gruppo Campari owns more than 45 brands which are distributed in over 190 countries worldwide and is the sixth-largest premium spirits company in the world.
“The North American market represents a great growth opportunity for Gruppo Campari, not only with our domestic products like our vodkas, tequilas and American whiskies, but also for our top performers from other territories, such as Campari and Glen Grant® Single Malt Scotch Whisky,” said Bob Kunze-Concewitz, CEO of Gruppo Campari. “While changing the name of our US, Canada, and Puerto Rico operation to Campari America strengthens the visibility of our global corporate brand, it also demonstrates to our important business partners the deep bench behind each and every one of our outstanding local employees.”
Continued Ruvo, “This name change marks the next chapter in our company’s evolution as we move from a small entrepreneurial organization to a member of a global organization that continues to make strategic moves and grow. Fortunately, we are able to retain our culture, our dynamic people, our powerful brands, and the performance-based mantra our customers have grown to expect.”
Rare Breed Distilling, the makers of Wild Turkey whiskies in Lawrenceburg, KY, will also be changing its public identity to Campari America as part of the rebranding effort. The production facility itself remains the Wild Turkey Distillery.
About Campari America
Campari America is a wholly owned subsidiary of Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A. (Reuters CPRI.MI - Bloomberg CPR IM), together with its affiliates Gruppo Campari. At the heart of Campari America are two legends in the American spirits industry. The first, Skyy Spirits, was founded in San Francisco back in 1992 by the entrepreneur who invented iconic SKYY Vodka. The second is the world-famous Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, where they have been making the world’s finest whiskies since the 1800’s. Both companies were purchased by Davide Campari-Milano and together they form Campari America, which has built a portfolio unrivaled in its quality, innovation and style, making it a top choice among distributors, retailers and consumers. Campari America manages Gruppo Campari’s portfolio in the US with such leading brands as SKYY® Vodka, SKYY Infusions®, Campari®, Wild Turkey® Straight Kentucky Bourbon, American Honey®, Russell’s Reserve®, Glen Grant® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Cabo Wabo® Tequila, Espolón® Tequila, Ouzo 12®, X-Rated® Fusion Liqueur®, Frangelico®, Carolans Irish Cream®, Irish Mist® Liqueur, Sagatiba® Cachaça and Jean-Marc XO Vodka®. Campari America is also the exclusive US distributor of The Glenrothes® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Bowmore® Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Auchentoshan® Lowland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Glen Garioch® Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Flor de Caña® Rum, Midori® Melon Liqueur, Hibiki® Whisky, Hakushu® Single Malt Whisky, and The Yamazaki® Single Malt Whisky.
Campari America is headquartered in San Francisco, California. More information on the company can be found at http://www.campariamerica.com, http://www.facebook.com/campariamerica, Twitter: @CampariAmerica and http://www.camparigroup.com. Please enjoy Campari America brands responsibly and in moderation.
About Gruppo Campari
Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A., together with its affiliates (“Gruppo Campari”), is a major player in the global beverage sector, trading in over 190 nations around the world with a leading position in the Italian and Brazilian markets and a strong presence in the USA and Continental Europe. The Group has an extensive portfolio that spans three business segments: spirits, wines and soft drinks. In the spirits segment its internationally renowned brands, such as Campari, Carolans, SKYY Vodka and Wild Turkey stand out. It also has leading regional brands including Aperol, Cabo Wabo, Camparisoda, Cynar, Frangelico, Glen Grant, Ouzo 12, X-Rated Fusion Liqueur, Zedda Piras and the local Brazilian brands Dreher, Old Eight and Drury’s. Its wine segment boasts the global brand Cinzano, as well as important regional brands including Liebfraumilch, Mondoro, Odessa, Riccadonna, Sella&Mosca and Teruzzi&Puthod. The soft drinks segment comprises the non-alcoholic aperitif Crodino and Lemonsoda as well as its respective line extension dominating the Italian market. The Group employs over 2,200 people. The shares of the parent company, Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A. (Reuters CPRI.MI - Bloomberg CPR IM), are listed on the Italian Stock Exchange. http://www.camparigroup.com
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PRESS
CONTACTS: Dave Karraker Sarah Jones
Campari America Benson Marketing Group
415.315.8000 707.254.1114
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

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SKYY SPIRITS CHANGES NAME TO CAMPARI AMERICA

January 11, 2012

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KENTUCKY DISTILLERS’ ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES NEW BOARD OFFICERS, DIRECTORS

January 03, 2012

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced that Jeff Conder of Beam Inc. has been named Chairman of the historic group that promotes and protects the Commonwealth’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry, including the world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tour.

Conder, who is Vice President of Americas Operations at Beam in Clermont, will serve through December 2012. The KDA Board of Directors selected officers during its annual meeting recently in Clermont.

“Our signature industry is enjoying an unprecedented period of growth and success,” Conder said. “But we also face significant challenges in high taxes, unfair trade barriers and other obstacles that put Bourbon at a competitive disadvantage in the global marketplace.

“Now more than ever, the KDA and its member distilleries must work together to protect our legendary craft, to renew our commitment to responsible drinking and to ensure that Kentucky remains the authentic and irreplaceable home for the world’s best Bourbon.”

The Board also appointed Tom Krekeler, Vice President of Product Supply Chain in North America for Campari Group, as Vice Chairman, and Joe Fraser, Vice President of Manufacturing at Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc., as Secretary-Treasurer.

Other Board members for 2012 include:

• Brown-Forman: Chris Morris, Master Distiller
• Diageo North America: Andrea Wilson, Director of Distillation and Maturing Spirit
• Four Roses Distillery: John Rhea, Chief Operating Officer

The KDA, founded in 1880, includes Beam, Inc. (Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark); Brown-Forman; Diageo North America; Four Roses; Heaven Hill and Wild Turkey. Craft members include Alltech, Barrel House Distilling Company and MB Roland Distillery.

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tour features six legendary distilleries, each offering a unique and educational experience on the art and craft of Bourbon-making: Four Roses, Heaven Hill, Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark, Wild Turkey and Woodford Reserve.

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Alltech Revives the Spirit of Town Branch with New Bourbon

October 25, 2011

Alltech Revives the Spirit of Town Branch with New Bourbon
[Lexington, KY] – Wednesday night the Alltech Brewing and Distilling Company was filled with friends raising glasses to toast the launch of Alltech’s newest drink, Town Branch Bourbon.

Alltech first entered into the beverage industry with the introduction of its Irish red/English pale ale hybrid, Kentucky Ale, in 2000. In the last eleven years, Alltech has added to its collection two more award winning beers, Kentucky Light and Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale, as well as a Bourbon infused coffee beverage, Bluegrass Sundown, and a malt whiskey, Pearse Lyons Reserve.

President and founder of Alltech, Dr. Pearse Lyons said, “One of Bourbon’s most distinctive qualities comes from the limestone water that brought Bourbon to popularity in the 1800s. The name Town Branch commemorates the body of water that currently runs under Lexington, upon which Lexington was founded. Town Branch was once the lifeblood of Lexington, now again it is bringing joy to Lexingtonians and Bourbon lovers alike.”

For the first time since its founding in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association expanded its membership rolls to invite craft distilleries, with Alltech being the first to join after its release of the Pearse Lyons Reserve whiskey.

The KDA was founded when 32 distillers met in Louisville to protect the Bourbon industry from “needless and obstructive laws and regulations.” Today, the KDA is the state’s leading voice on spirits issues, from taxes to tourism, technical matters and more.
Alltech’s launch of Town Branch Bourbon comes just two weeks before the Alltech National Horse Show’s grand debut at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky. Visitors can get a taste of the Official Spirit of the Alltech National Horse Show, Town Branch Bourbon, as they tour the Alltech Arena.

Tickets for the Alltech National Horse Show, ranging from $10-$30, are on sale and can be purchased through Ticketmaster at 1-800-745-3000 or http://www.ticketmaster.com. Fifty percent of each ticket sold benefits select local and national charities. Parking at the Kentucky Horse Park is free during the event. For more information about the Alltech National Horse Show, visit http://www.nhs2011.org.

Town Branch Bourbon is currently available at local Kentucky retailers.

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Alltech Revives the Spirit of Town Branch with New Bourbon

October 25, 2011

Town Branch Bourbon is currently available at local Kentucky retailers.

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SUPPORT OPERATION HOMEFRONT WITH HEAVEN HILL DISTILLERIES

October 20, 2011

SUPPORT OPERATION HOMEFRONT WITH HEAVEN HILL DISTILLERIES

Bourbon Heritage Center to Donate $1 From Every Visitor to Charity

BARDSTOWN, KY—Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc., the nation’s largest independent family-owned and operated distilled spirits producer and marketer, announces a special Holiday fundraiser benefiting Operation Homefront at the company’s acclaimed visitor’s center, The Bourbon Heritage Center. The Bourbon Heritage Center sits on the grounds of Heaven Hill in the middle of Bardstown, the “Bourbon Capital of the World®,” and was awarded the worldwide “Visitor Attraction of the Year” title during Whisky Magazine’s Icons of Whiskey presentation in 2009.

The Bourbon Heritage Center will be collecting $1 from all visitors from October 1 through December 25 and will be donating 100% of the proceeds to Operation Homefront. Guests will feel the patriotism with the large red, white and blue decorated Christmas tree and holiday decor that line the Center.

“We are so happy to be able to support Operation Homefront,” said Lynne Grant, Director of Guest Services at the Heaven Hill Bourbon Heritage Center. “Many of our employees and neighbors in Bardstown and Nelson County have family in the military which makes it even more gratifying to contribute to this cause.”

The Bourbon Heritage Center welcomed more than 64,000 visitors last year, making it one of the most visited attractions on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®. It offers guests interactive exhibits, an orientation film, a large retail store featuring branded and bourbon themed apparel and foods, and a state-of-the-art tasting room.

Bardstown-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, 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 Whisky, 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.

About Operation Homefront:
Operation Homefront provides emergency and other assistance to the families of service members and wounded warriors. As a leading national charity supporting families of service members and wounded warriors, Operation Homefront has grown from a small local charity to a strong national organization with chapters across the country. Since its inception in 2002, it has met more than 400,000 needs of military families and provided more than $128 million dollars of funding to programs benefitting military families. Moreover, it has served more than 4,200 wounded warriors and their families.

About the Bourbon Heritage Center:
* A series of interactive and educational exhibits that demonstrate the Bourbon-making process and Bourbon history, including information on Evan Williams, Kentucky’s first distiller, Elijah Craig - “the father of Bourbon” - and other Bourbon pioneers whose names are immortalized in some of Heaven Hill’s most famous Bourbon brands.

* The Evan Williams Theater shows “A Portrait of Heaven Hill,” a short informative film on the history of Bourbon, the Bourbon-making process, and Heaven Hill Distilleries. The theater, located at one end of the Center, accommodates 75 in traditional theater-style seating.

* A highlight of the Center is the one-of-a-kind barrel-shaped “Parker Beam Tasting Room,” which seats 22. The dramatic space gives legal age visitors a unique environment in which guided samplings of the company’s world-renowned whiskeys are conducted.

* Eye-catching display items such as old advertisements, photographs, and even a sample of the very first “white dog” (new, unaged Bourbon) that was distilled at Heaven Hill in 1934. Interactive exhibits include informative distillery models and a high-tech “smelling station,” where visitors can nose authentic bourbon at various ages.

* One wall re-creating a rickhouse, complete with various Heaven Hill Bourbon - branded barrels stacked up to the ceiling. The company’s replica milestone barrel heads, beginning with the first barrel filled, are also on display on this wall.

* The center’s gift shop features Kentucky crafts, branded merchandise, bourbon-themed foods and gifts, and a special bottling of Evan Williams Master Distillers’ Select Bourbon available for purchase and customized personalization.
Guests can visit the Heaven Hill Bourbon Heritage Center at 1311 Gilkey Run Road in Bardstown, KY. For more information call 502-337-1000 or visit http://www.bourbonheritagecenter.com.

Founded in 1934, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (http://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 Evan Williams Bourbon; Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; HPNOTIQ and HPNOTIQ Harmonie Liqueurs; Admiral Nelson’s and Blackheart Rums; The Christian Brothers Brandies; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Lunazul Tequila and Rittenhouse Rye Whisky.

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

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HEAVEN HILL DISTILLERIES NAMED “DISTILLER OF THE YEAR” IN 17TH ANNUAL MALT ADVOCATE WHISKY AWARD

March 03, 2011

Renowned distiller also captures “Best Buy Whiskey of the Year” co-honors for their Evan Williams Black Label Bourbon

BARDSTOWN, KY – Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc., the nation’s largest independent family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer, was named “Distiller of the Year” in the recently announced 17th Annual Malt Advocate Whisky Awards. The nation’s second-largest holder of aging Bourbon, Heaven Hill was also named co-recipient of Malt Advocate’s “Best Buy Whiskey of the Year” award for their Evan Williams Black Label Bourbon, which is itself the second largest selling brand of Bourbon in the United States and the world.

The Malt Advocate Whiskey Awards “recognizes the best in the world of whisk(e)y” and after 17 years is the longest-running whisky awards program in the country. The awards are presented by Malt Advocate Magazine, America’s leading whiskey publication and the sponsor of WhiskyFest, the nation’s largest and most respected whisky tasting event.

In awarding Heaven Hill “Distillery of the Year”, John Hansell, Publisher and Editor of Malt Advocate Magazine, stated that “smart whiskey lovers know their reputation for delivering great value in their whiskey brands. They just celebrated their 75th anniversary in a big way, by filling their six-millionth barrel of whiskey. They’ve been pioneers with their Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage series and the Bernheim Original wheat whiskey. (Master Distiller) Parker Beam’s skills are celebrated with the eponymous and often stupendous Parker’s Heritage Collection…They have been at the spearhead of the rye resurgence, maintaining availability of their value brands (Rittenhouse and Pikesville) and also rolling out an amazing trio of ultra-aged ryes. Heaven Hill takes whiskey seriously. They deserve nothing less.”

In his presentation of “Best Buy Whiskey of the Year” to Evan Williams Black Label—which is the first two-time winner of this award, having captured it previously in 2003—Hansell noted that “Evan Williams is a sophisticated whiskey for its price: smooth, a great aroma, and neither gets lost in nor dominates a cocktail, a classic table bourbon.”

Heaven Hill Distilleries President Max L. Shapira met the news with enthusiasm, stating that “we are particularly proud to be named ‘Distillery of the Year’, validating the hard work and passion that Parker and Craig Beam, and all our employees, invest every day, year after year. This is the third major ‘Distillery of the Year’ award Heaven Hill has received in the last 6 years, and the fourth ‘Best Buy Whiskey of the Year’ award we have won from Malt Advocate, having won previously for Evan Williams Black Label Bourbon, Elijah Craig 12-year-old Small Batch Bourbon and Rittenhouse Rye. We sincerely thank John Hansell and all the people at Malt Advocate for the recognition of both quality and value in our American Whiskeys.”

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

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CONTACT:
Larry Kass
Director of Corporate Communications
Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc.
502-413-0220
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

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KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL® TOUR SHATTERS RECORD

February 10, 2011

FRANKFORT, Ky. – For the second straight year, the number of visitors who completed the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® Passport program surged more than 300 percent, as more than 9,000 people finished the historic tour of all six legendary distilleries in 2010.

“An unbelievable achievement for our signature industry and our Commonwealth,” said Eric Gregory, president of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association that created and coordinates the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tour.

“We couldn’t be more proud of this trademark attraction,” Gregory said. “It promotes our rich heritage, it benefits our local economies and it is growing more popular every day. This is proof.”

About 400,000 people visited at least one of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® distilleries in 2010, a 14 percent increase in attendance from 2009, Gregory said. More than 1.8 million people have visited the member distilleries in the last five years alone.

Other key statistics from 2010 include:

• Kentucky led the way with 1,879 completed Passports, followed by Ohio, Indiana and Illinois

• Visitors from all 50 states completed the program, including the first from Hawaii

• Passports came from 14 countries, including Austria, Australia, Canada, Denmark, England, Finland, France, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Puerto Rico, South Africa and Switzerland

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For more information, contact KDA President Eric Gregory at (502) 875-9351.

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail® is a registered trademark of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association.

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