Phillips Distilling Upends Traditional Flavored Whisky Category With Brand Repositioning Of Cult Classic Revel Stoke®

PRINCETON, Minn., Oct. 25, 2021- Phillips Distilling Company, a pioneer in breakthrough flavors and spirits innovation for more than 109 years, today announced Revel Stoke® has introduced a bold new line of flavored whiskies that speaks to today's independent whisky drinker.

New irreverent flavor names "Nutcrusher Peanut Butter," "Hotbox Cinnamon," "SonofaPeach," and "Lei'd Roasted Pineapple" will be the talk of the on-and-off premise categories this fall. Revel Stoke's unapologetic design is high-energy, personality-driven and tailored to a new segment of independent whisky drinkers seeking to break free from traditional whisky brands.

"Over time whisky has gotten too serious and boring," said Peter Olson, Senior Brand Manager – Brown Spirits at Phillips Distilling Company. "Whisky should be about outrageously good times, so we made Revel Stoke for those who live life on their own terms and boldly challenge convention at every turn."

With 12 unique flavors, Revel Stoke is great to sip neat, over ice or in dozens of simple cocktails. The drink possibilities are endless with mixers like lemonade, ginger beer, cider or soda. To explore whisky recipes, go to www.RevelStokeWhisky.com.

Starting this Fall Revel Stoke® will feature a new tagline "Stoke Your Wild™." The brand also will launch the largest integrated marketing campaign in Phillips Distilling Company's history, aimed at "Zillennial" men ages 21-34 years old who embrace the freedom to pursue what matters most to them. Out-of-home billboards will run in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa to drive awareness and trial.

Additionally, the campaign will feature a wide array of digital components including social media, influencer partnerships, streaming audio, e-commerce and delivery app promotions and "text to save" offers via PayPal and Venmo.

Olson added, "Flavored whisky as a category is growing exponentially and there already is high early demand for our 'SonofaPeach,' 'Hardcore Roasted Apple,' and 'Shellshocked Roasted Pecan' flavors. We're thrilled to bring a never-before-seen-energy to the category and inspire a new set of drinkers to stoke their wild in an entirely new world of whisky."

About Phillips Distilling Company:
Phillips Distilling Company is one of the most innovative and enduring distilled spirits companies in North America. Over 109 years in the making, Phillips continues to produce high-quality products using only the finest ingredients, sourced from around the globe. Phillips is consistently a pioneer in the spirits industry, from America's first schnapps in the 1930s to flavored vodka in the 1950s to flavored whiskey in the 1990s to organic spirits in the 2000s. The Phillips portfolio includes Phillips Spirits, UV Vodka, Prairie Organic Spirits, Revel Stoke Whiskies, Tomatin Scotch Whiskies, Trader Vic's Rums, and Douglas & Todd Small Batch Bourbon. The company is based in Princeton, Minn., with offices in St. Paul. For more information, go to www.phillipsdistilling.com.

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The House of Suntory Whisky Introduces Yamazaki® 55 Years Old™ to Global Travel Retail

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CHICAGO, Oct. 24, 2021The House of Suntory has today introduced an extremely limited quantity of the highly limited-edition Yamazaki 55 whisky to Global Travel Retail, available at a recommended retail price of $60,000 USD.

Bottled in 2020, Yamazaki 55 is the House of Suntory's oldest release in its history and pays tribute to the founding family of Japanese whisky, while celebrating the Japanese "Showa" era of the 1960s.

Yamazaki 55 will be available to select Global Travel Retail with bottles found in London, Paris, Hainan, Hong Kong, Taipei, Amsterdam, Seoul, Delhi, Istanbul, Dubai and Singapore.

Beam Suntory will donate $5,000 USD for every bottle released in this year's 100-bottle collection, totalling $500,000 USD, to The White Oak Initiative, a group committed to the long-term sustainability of America's white oak forests.

Yamazaki 55 is a blend of precious single malts, featuring components distilled in 1960 under the supervision of Suntory's founder Shinjiro Torii and then aged in Mizunara casks; and in 1964 under the direction of Suntory's Second Master Blender Keizo Saji and then aged in White Oak casks.

Suntory's Fifth-Generation Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo worked closely with Third-Generation Master Blender Shingo Torii to deploy their signature art of blending to properly reveal the exceptional depth, complexity and wisdom that is Yamazaki 55.

The resulting liquid features a deep amber colour; robust aroma redolent of sandal wood and well-ripened fruit; sweet, slightly bitter and woody palate; and slightly bitter yet sweet and rich finish.

Manuel González, Marketing Director GTR for Beam Suntory, said: "We are extremely proud to have the opportunity to offer travellers something as unique and exclusive as Yamazaki 55, the oldest-aged expression from the House of Suntory. This highly limited-edition product will be showcased in some of our best House of Suntory locations, and it will be amplified by an integrated activation campaign. We are committed to growing Global Travel Retail by reinforcing our innovative offering and bringing the best premium shopper experience to life for our customers."

'Yamazaki' is engraved in calligraphy on each crystal bottle, while the age marking is accentuated with gold dust and protected with lacquer. The bottle's opening is wrapped in handmade Echizen washi paper and bound by with a Kyo-kumihimo plaited cord, a traditional craft from Kyoto. Each bottle is enclosed in a bespoke box made Japanese Mizunara wood and coated with Suruga lacquer.

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Alberta Distillers Re-introduces Limited Time Offering of Widely Coveted 100% Rye Whisky, Alberta® Premium Cask Strength Rye

TORONTO, Oct. 19, 2021 Alberta Distillers, Distillery of the Decade as named by the 2020 Canadian Whisky Awards, proudly announces its 2021 release of Alberta® Premium Cask Strength Rye Whisky into the U.S. market. Hitting shelves this month as a limited time offering, this premium whisky showcases Alberta Distillers' expertise and skill in crafting true 100% rye whisky, which is a notoriously difficult grain to work with.

Made in Calgary, Alberta, Alberta® Premium Cask Strength Rye is crafted from 100% Canadian prairie rye grains grown by local farmers and nutrient-dense, glacier-fed spring water from the famed Rocky Mountains. The result is a perfectly balanced liquid that reflects the brand's unique natural surroundings, Canadian heritage, and expert whisky craftsmanship.

"Following the success of Alberta® Premium Cask Strength Rye's debut in the U.S. last year, we are thrilled to offer stateside whisky drinkers the limited 2021 release of our award-winning whisky," said George Teichroeb, General Manager of Alberta Distillers. "When Alberta Premium debuted in 1958, we were one of the first distilleries to create a true 100% rye whisky, and this cask strength rye is the culmination of our hard work and dedication to crafting exceptional rye whisky."

Highly revered by whisky enthusiasts, the 2020 release of Alberta® Premium Cask Strength Rye received numerous prestigious awards including Double Gold at the 2020 and 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competitions, Double Gold at the 2021 SIP Awards, Best All Rye Whisky at the 2021 Canadian Whisky Awards and 1st Place Best Canadian Whisky at the 2021 International Whisky Competition. This special whisky is best enjoyed neat with a drop of water or on the rocks, and features the following characteristics:

Alberta® Premium Cask Strength Rye:

• Proof: 63-67%
• Taste: Exceptionally smooth with notes of caramel, vanilla and a hint of chocolate balanced with the spiciness of rye and black currant
• Finish: Smooth and lingering with the complexity of spice, warm vanilla, and dark fruit

Packaged in an eye-catching, faceted glass bottle, Alberta® Premium Cask Strength Rye will be available in limited quantities in select U.S. markets beginning this month for an SRP of $74.99 for a 750ml bottle. With demand and popularity gaining for the distillery's premium spirits in the U.S, whisky fans can rest assured there's more to come from Alberta® Premium in 2022.  For more information on Alberta Distillers visit www.albertadistillers.com.

About Alberta Distillers
Founded in 1946, Alberta Distillers continually sets the gold standard for Canadian spirits, offering distinguished quality. Pure Rocky Mountain water and rich prairie grains—grown by farmers who have worked with us for decades—create the hearty foundation of every handcrafted liquid we make. We're proud to be using only the finest ingredients. Experience the incredible strength and flavor that can only be found in an award-winning collection like ours. Visit www.albertadistillers.com for more information.

About Beam Suntory, Inc.
As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires human connections. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for the company's brands, including the iconic Jim Beam and Maker's Mark bourbon brands, Suntory whisky Kakubin and Courvoisier cognac, as well as world renowned premium brands including Knob Creek, Basil Hayden's and Legent bourbon; Yamazaki, Hakushu, Hibiki and Toki Japanese whisky; Teacher's, Laphroaig and Bowmore Scotch whisky; Canadian Club whisky; Hornitos and Sauza tequila; EFFEN, Haku and Pinnacle vodka; Sipsmith and Roku gin; and On The Rocks Premium Cocktails.

Beam Suntory was created in 2014 by combining the world leader in bourbon and the pioneer in Japanese whisky to form a new company with a deep heritage, passion for quality, innovative spirit, and vision of Growing for Good.  Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan.  For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com.

Alberta® Premium Cask Strength Rye Whisky 63-67% alc/vol, ©2021 Alberta Distillers, LTD, Chicago, IL

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New Master Blender For Johnnie Walker as Industry Legend Retires

Emma Walker succeeds Jim Beveridge OBE becoming the first female Master Blender in the 200-year Johnnie Walker story

LONDON, Oct. 20, 2021  Today Johnnie Walker, the world's best-selling Scotch Whisky¹, announces that Dr Emma Walker will take over the reins from Dr Jim Beveridge OBE, who retires at the end of the year after more than 40 years at Diageo, 20 of which as Master Blender.

Emma will be one of a small, select group of people, and the first female, to take on the coveted role of Master Blender in more than two centuries of the business's existence, the first being founder John Walker.

Aptly named, although no relation to the Walker family, Emma joined Diageo 13 years ago and has gained extensive knowledge and experience of Scotch production and innovation to become a highly respected blender who has worked extensively on Johnnie Walker for the last six years. Her innovations include the Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost and Rare series and Jane Walker by Johnnie Walker.

The role of Johnnie Walker Master Blender is one of the most coveted in the industry, and Emma will lead the 12-strong team of expert whisky makers in the pursuit of exceptional flavour, crafting and blending whisky from the four corners of Scotland to create the numerous Johnnie Walker variants which are sold in more than 180 countries around the world.

During her career, Emma has worked in different areas of whisky production; gaining experience and understanding of how flavour develops in fermentation, distillation, and maturation, striving to ensure quality at every stage of the process. She has spent several years working with Jim to develop an encyclopaedic understanding and knowledge of whisky.

In July, Diageo reported that global Scotch organic net sales grew 15% year-on-year with Johnnie Walker organic net sales up 12%, as the category benefited from the growing trend of premiumisation amongst consumers.

New Johnnie Walker Master Blender, Dr Emma Walker, says: "I am honoured to take on the title of Master Blender of Johnnie Walker, and at an exciting time for the brand as we embark on the next step of our journey looking ahead to the next 200 years. I love experimenting and innovating with flavour and we'll be working hard to not only continue to deliver the unrivalled quality that we are renowned for but also introducing blends to appeal to a new generation of Scotch Whisky fans."

She adds: "I have learnt so much over my career working with Jim - whose knowledge and generosity of spirit is unsurpassed in the world of whisky."

The announcement comes as Jim Beveridge retires after a four-decade career in whisky during which time he has been responsible for some of the world's most popular and acclaimed Scotch whisky blends including Johnnie Walker Blue Label.

His commitment to developing the ultimate whisky flavours began when he started his career with Johnnie Walker as an analytical chemist 42 years ago. He has gone on to establish himself as one of the most highly respected figures in the industry, renowned for his skill and dedication to quality. In 2019, he was awarded an OBE by Her Majesty the Queen for his services to the Scotch Whisky industry.

Dr Jim Beveridge OBE says: "It is with pleasure and confidence that I pass on this privilege to Emma. I know she will do a wonderful job as she possesses the knowledge, expertise, and dedication to make an amazing Master Blender. On a personal level I am delighted for her, and I know that her wonderfully infectious personality, that made working with her so enjoyable, will bring something exciting and different to the team and, indeed, to the wider Scotch industry."

Julie Bramham, Global Brand Director for Johnnie Walker, comments: "It is through Jim's tireless work, incredible expertise and dedication to quality that the iconic flavours of the Johnnie Walker portfolio are so popular today and we thank him for his outstanding contribution over the last four decades. Emma takes over at an exciting time, Scotch is being enjoyed in so many different ways by people from all over the world and I know that Emma and her team will continue to develop the exceptional tastes, textures and flavours that we are renowned for."

Emma will officially hold the title of Master Blender from 1 January 2022 and Jim will remain with the business until the end of the year.

For further information, please contact: Smarts: johnniewalker@smarts.agency

About Johnnie Walker

Johnnie Walker is the world's number one Scotch Whisky brand¹ (IWSR), enjoyed by people in over 180 countries around the world. Since the time of its founder, John Walker, those who blend its whiskies have pursued flavour and quality above all else.

Today's range of award-winning whiskies includes Johnnie Walker Red Label, Black Label, Double Black, Green Label, Gold Label Reserve, Aged 18 Years and Blue Label. Together they account for over 14 million cases sold annually (IWSR, 2020), making Johnnie Walker the most popular Scotch Whisky brand in the world.

About Diageo

Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands including Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, J&B, Buchanan's and Windsor whiskies, Smirnoff and Cîroc vodkas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Don Julio, Tanqueray and Guinness.

Diageo is listed on both the London Stock Exchange (DGE) and the New York Stock Exchange (DEO) and our products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. For more information about Diageo, our people, our brands, and performance, visit us at www.diageo.com. Visit Diageo's global responsible drinking resource, www.DRINKiQ.com, for information, initiatives, and ways to share best practice.

Celebrating life, every day, everywhere.

¹ IWSR 2020

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Introducing Bowmore® No Corners to Hide to Global Travel Retail

CHICAGO, Oct. 15, 2021- Bowmore has unveiled two new whiskies in the first release of Bowmore No Corners to Hide; an exciting collaboration between acclaimed graphic artist Frank Quitely, who has illustrated for Marvel and DC Comics, and Bowmore's Master Blender Ron Welsh.

 

Inspired by the most intriguing myths and legends from the remote island of Islay, each bottle in the collaboration features exclusive designs and artwork from Frank Quitely. The illustrations showcase Islay's far-reaching history and rich stories of a bygone era and embody the artistic expression of Bowmore's style.

The limited-edition series features two stunning single malts, 23-Year-Old and 32-Year-Old, which are exclusively available in select Global Travel Retail outlets including Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Vienna, Dubai, Singapore and Taiwan.

The exceptional 23-Year-Old captures a whisky character inspired by the legendary story of No Corners to Hide. The spirit was nurtured in ex-bourbon American oak hogsheads to create the signature Bowmore style. Two years of further maturation followed in Essencia® barriques to create a powerful character conjuring up a sensory exploration of this mythical tale. It captures a hint of beeswax, a scent of incense and a struck match to transport the senses to Bowmore's round church. Each bottle is decorated with illustrations and sketches from Frank Quitely.

The 32-Year-Old captures a moment in time; a story as captivating as the myth it celebrates. An initial 30 years of maturation in ex-bourbon American oak hogsheads reflects a timely occupation in cask, much like the devil's own alleged escape. This was followed by two further years in Essencia® barriques to bring an unusually distinctive character to the fore, again combining beeswax, incense and struck match.

Evolving to Seville orange peel merged with the aromas of an old cigar box, but with sweet and floral interjections and finishing with a touch of liquorice and iodine, the 32-Year-Old is intriguing and ingenious in equal measure. Each bottle comes complete with a signed print from Frank Quitely, alongside original sketches and notes from the whisky making process.

Manuel González, Marketing Director GTR for Beam Suntory, said: "Bowmore has a rich history filled with myths and legends, and we're delighted to partner with the award-winning Frank Quitely to bring these tales to life. Possessing a proven track record of producing collectible artwork with both Marvel and DC, the Frank Quitely Collection is our latest exciting collaboration to offer luxury limited-editions to our customers."

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The House Of Suntory Debuts The 2021 Limited-Edition Design Bottle Of Hibiki® Japanese Harmony™

 

CHICAGO, Oct. 18, 2021 The House of Suntory, the founding House of Japanese Whisky,  announces the release of a specially-designed, limited edition bottle of Hibiki® Japanese Harmony™. Adorned with painted flowers and flowing ribbons of water, this one-of-a-kind bottle was designed to represent the vital force of Japan's everchanging twenty-four seasons. This limited-edition bottle will be available in select global markets including the United States this month. 

From its introduction in 1989, the Hibiki bottle is presented with 24 facets. The design symbolizes the 24 hours of a day, as well as the 24 seasons of the year in the traditional Japanese lunar calendar. The 2021 limited edition pays tribute to the Ryusui-Hyakka (One-Hundred Flowers and Flowing Water). The design motif epitomizes the cyclical passage of time, showcasing the blossoms of the Japanese twenty-four seasons juxtaposed with the ever-changing flow of water that connects one passing season to another. The Hibiki bottle celebrates the much-loved blooms, colors and shapes of seasonal flowers that make the Japanese year so special. A deep appreciation for the seasons and a sensitivity for the passage of time accounts for the Japanese culture's unique sense of harmony with nature. In tune with Suntory's philosophy, the design bottle series is the next iteration of the brand's continuous pursuit of harmony.

"The iconic Hibiki bottle has always been a representation of Japanese art and design, as represented by the many limited-edition series over the past ten years," said Jon Potter, Managing Director of the House of Suntory. "This specially-designed bottle is not only the continuation of this artistic expression, it honors Hibiki and Suntory's ethos to live in Harmony with nature. In 2021, this philosophy may echo with the world more than ever."

The Hibiki brand was introduced to the world in 1989 and since then has been embraced as the paragon of Japanese Whisky. It is not only Japan's most highly awarded blended whisky, but also among the most prestigious and honored whiskies in the world. Introduced in 2015, Hibiki Japanese Harmony is a harmonious blend blessed with the riches of Japanese nature and craftsmanship. Hibiki Japanese Harmony is a meticulous blend of the finest selection of malt and grain whiskies from the House of Suntory Whisky's Yamazaki, Hakushu and Chita distilleries. This delicate blend creates a oneness unfolding a full orchestra of flavors and aromas.

Whether for an elevated gifting occasion or a personal indulgence, the 2021 Hibiki limited edition is an invitation to appreciate and enjoy Japanese harmony.  Hibiki Japanese Harmony 2021 Limited Edition is available for a suggested retail price of $125 USD for the 750ml bottle.

TASTING NOTES: HIBIKI JAPANESE HARMONY – 43% ABV
Luminous. Delicate. A transparency that unveils complexity.
Color:  Amber
Nose:   Rose, lychee, hint of rosemary, mature woodiness, sandalwood
Palate:  Honey-like sweetness, candied orange peel, white chocolate
Finish:  Subtle, tender long finish, with hint of Mizunara (Japanese oak)

ABOUT SUNTORY WHISKY
Since 1923, Suntory has been renowned as the pioneer of Japanese whisky for its House of Master Blenders and for their Art of Blending. The founding father of Japanese whisky Shinjiro Torii built Japan's first malt whisky distillery in Yamazaki, and the Suntory legacy continued with Torii's son, Keizo Saji, Suntory's second master blender who continued to establish distilleries including the Hakushu distillery. As the generations of Suntory's master blenders carry on, Suntory Whisky remains committed to heritage and innovation. The House of Suntory Whisky has been named four-time Distiller of the Year at the International Spirits Challenge in London, UK (2010, 2012, 2013, 2014).

Suntory Whiskies are subtle, refined and complex. The portfolio includes two single malt whiskies:  Yamazaki—Japan's N°1 Single Malt, multi-layered and profound, Hakushu—verdant, fresh, and delicately smoky; and two blends: the noble blend, Hibiki—Japan's most highly awarded blended whisky and Suntory Whisky Toki.

whisky.suntory.com                #SuntoryWhisky                     @SuntoryWhisky

ABOUT BEAM SUNTORY INC.
As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires human connections. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for the company's brands, including the iconic Jim Beam and Maker's Mark bourbon brands, Suntory whisky Kakubin and Courvoisier cognac, as well as world renowned premium brands including Knob Creek, Basil Hayden's and Legent bourbon; Yamazaki, Hakushu, Hibiki and Toki Japanese whisky; Teacher's, Laphroaig and Bowmore Scotch whisky; Canadian Club whisky; Hornitos and Sauza tequila; EFFEN, Haku and Pinnacle vodka; Sipsmith and Roku gin; and On The Rocks Premium Cocktails.

Beam Suntory was created in 2014 by combining the world leader in bourbon and the pioneer in Japanese whisky to form a new company with a deep heritage, passion for quality, innovative spirit and vision of Growing for Good.  Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com.

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