The following was released today by the Charge for Harm Alliance:

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100325/DC77162LOGO )

What: Rally – District Visit

Where & When:

  • Assembly Member Hector de La Torre

Date:  March 26, 2010

Rally time: 11 a.m.

Legislative visit time: 11:30 a.m.

Location: 8724 Garfield Avenue, Suite 104, South Gate, CA 90280

Who:  

  • A.W.A.R.E. Coalition / Tarzana Treatment Centers
  • Asian American Drug Abuse Program (AADAP)
  • California Alliance for Retired Americans (CARA)
  • Drug Policy Alliance
  • Pueblo Y Salud
  • Marin Institute

Why: To advocate for the passage of AB 1694, the Alcohol-Related Services Act - Authored by Assembly Member Jim Beall (D - San Jose), the measure creates the Alcohol-Related Services Program. The program will be funded by a $700+ million annual mitigation fee on Big Alcohol to help cover California's annual alcohol-related trauma care, hospitalization, treatment, prevention, and criminal justice costs. The bill, which exempts thousands of small wineries, breweries and distillers from the new fee, will be reconsidered in the Assembly Health Committee on April 6, 2010.

To help legislators understand the astronomical annual $38.4 billion dollar cost of alcohol-related harm in California, and the effects on a chronically under-funded health care system and the residents of the state.

To elevate visibility of the Charge for Harm Alliance – a diverse, statewide network of concerned individuals, treatment and prevention service providers, cities, counties, public health departments, enforcement, labor, youth and faith-based groups determined to pass a fair and meaningful alcohol-harm mitigation fee in California.  Other Alliance members and AB 1694 supporters will be visiting Assembly Health Committee members in their district offices throughout the Easter break.

For additional information, go to: ChargeForHarm.org

Contact:  

John Whitaker Jr. 213/400-6542

Jorge Castillo 213/840-3336

SOURCE Charge for Harm Alliance

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With the close of the Winter Games, competitors across the country are now gearing up for a new kind of Games.  The ultimate bragging rights are about to be bestowed upon a select few individuals who prove they have what it takes to be an ultimate challenger. Jose Cuervo, the world's best-selling tequila, today announced the launch of CuervoGames, the brand's largest experiential marketing campaign in more than a decade. Through CuervoGames, the brand will take over cities nationwide and give local residents a chance to compete in a set of physical challenges, with each local winning team heading to Las Vegas for the national finals.  

CuervoGames, through a series of live, interactive experiences, is designed to challenge adults of legal drinking age who think they have the clout to carve their own story into Cuervo history. Each of these trials—the Waterfall Climb, the Agave Air Walk, the Tumbler, the Barrel Roll and cocktail mix-off — will highlight the brand's rich Mexican heritage.  

"With Vancouver now behind us, athletes around the country are refocusing their attention from the Winter Games to CuervoGames," said Julia Mancuso, three-time U.S. Olympic medalist skier.  While I finish my ski season, adults across the country now have the opportunity to be part of Cuervo history."

"Jose Cuervo is an iconic brand built on more than two centuries of tequila-making," said Ami-Lynn Bakshi, Vice President, Tequila Marketing, Diageo. "We're excited to invite consumers to not only be a part of our story, but to create their own. CuervoGames is the ultimate opportunity to battle for their place in Cuervo history—it will gauge their guts, their wits and their skills."

The inaugural CuervoGames will kick off in Tempe, AZ on April 3 and travel to 20 cities in all throughout 2010 including: Dallas, San Diego, Denver, Minneapolis and Chicago, culminating in an epic finale in Las Vegas. In select markets, participants will also have the opportunity to compete against a 'Cuervo Contender,' a well-known local celebrity or former professional athlete who will form his or her own team with local residents.

To participate in the CuervoGames, teams of four can register immediately on Facebook (www.facebook.com/cuervo) and increase their chances of selection by gathering votes from friends. The three teams on Facebook that have accumulated the highest number of votes will progress to the regional finals. Teams may also register as walk-ons throughout the day of the event at the CuervoGames location. All team members must be present to register and only the first 20 teams will be eligible. Walk-on teams will participate in a preliminary round with the top-scoring team progressing to the regional finals that evening.

CuervoGames will live on-line on the Facebook page as well as Jose Cuervo's website (www.josecuervo.com). Each city's finals event will be streamed live on Justin.TV, where hundreds of thousands of viewers will be able to interact with the on-site crowd through innovative technologies.

Whether enjoying the spirit or offerings of Jose Cuervo please remember to do so responsibly.

About Jose Cuervo

Jose Cuervo is the largest producer of tequila throughout Mexico and around the world. The Jose Cuervo portfolio of tequilas includes Jose Cuervo Especial Gold, the number one tequila worldwide, Jose Cuervo Especial Silver, Jose Cuervo Black Medallion, Jose Cuervo Tradicional, Jose Cuervo Platino, Jose Cuervo Reserva de la Familia, Jose Cuervo Golden Margaritas, Authentic Jose Cuervo Margaritas and Jose Cuervo Margarita Mix. For more information, visit www.josecuervo.com.

About DIAGEO

Jose Cuervo Tequilas are imported and marketed in the United States by Diageo North America, a subsidiary of Diageo plc. Diageo (Dee-AH-Gee-O) is the world's leading premium drinks business with an outstanding collection of beverage alcohol brands across spirits, wines and beer categories. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Guinness, Smirnoff, J&B, Baileys, Cuervo, Tanqueray, Captain Morgan, Crown Royal, Beaulieu Vineyard and Sterling Vineyards wines. Diageo is a global company, trading in more than 180 countries around the world. The company is listed on both the New York Stock Exchange (DEO) and the London Stock Exchange (DGE). For more information about Diageo, its people, brands and performance, visit us at http://www.diageo.com. For our global resource that promotes responsible drinking through the sharing of best practice tools, information and initiatives, visit DRINKiQ.com.

When enjoying its products, Diageo reminds its adult consumers to drink responsibly.  As the world's largest spirits, wine and beer company, Diageo is committed to social responsibility and the responsible marketing of its brands.  The Diageo Marketing Code is one of the most stringent in the industry.  Diageo is a founding member and major supporter of The Century Council, a not-for-profit organization whose programs are designed to combat drunk driving and underage drinking.

Celebrating life, every day, everywhere, responsibly.

    
    
    Media Contacts:
    
    Elizabeth Balduino                   Greg Leonard
    Taylor                               Diageo
    212-714-5726                         646-223-2111
    ebalduino@taylorpr.com               greg.leonard@diageo.com

SOURCE Diageo

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With colored-coded maps published online today, Marin Institute illustrates how inflation has decreased the value of low beer taxes, while state budget shortfalls have exploded.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100329/DC77689LOGO)

"Amazingly, six states have not raised beer taxes in more than fifty years," stated Marin Institute's Research and Policy Director Michele Simon. "More than half the states have not raised beer excise taxes in at least two decades. Legislators are ignoring a lot of revenue their states could use right now."

The alcohol industry watchdog calls their new maps tool Neglected and Outdated State Beer Taxes.  It compares for each the number of years since last tax increase and the real value decline due to not keeping up with inflation.

Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Wyoming have not passed a beer tax increase in 50 years or more. Astonishingly, in 47 states, the decrease in real value of the current beer tax (due to inflation) ranges from 25 percent to over 75 percent. Included with the maps is a handy table that chronicles all the data state-by-state including current beer tax rates.

"This is graphic proof that Big Alcohol lobbying efforts are extremely effective at preventing sound public policy and balanced state budgets," said Michael Scippa, advocacy director at Marin Institute. "Their well-funded influence peddling is especially effective when coupled with generous campaign contributions."

"We hope state legislatures and governors looking for alternatives to draconian cuts to budgets and services will use this data," Simon added. "Then enact long-overdue increases to beer taxes and index them to inflation to prevent future losses."

To use the new maps visit: MarinInstitute.org

CONTACT:  Michael Scippa, +1-415-548-0492, or Jorge Castillo +1-213-840-3336, both of the Marin Institute

SOURCE Marin Institute

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Two and a half centuries after co-founding the Mexican town of Arandas, today's epicenter of highland tequila production, legendary tequila-producing family Camarena has unveiled Familia Camarena Tequila, a new premium tequila crafted from 100 percent blue agave. A testament to the regional flavors of the Los Altos Highlands, the new Familia Camarena Tequila is a culmination of six Camarena generations whose influence on the refinement of quality tequila production has shaped the standards of modern-day premium tequila.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100326/SF77217)

Available in two expressions, Silver and Reposado, Familia Camarena Tequila showcases only traditional methods of agave preparation, fermentation and distillation to produce 100 percent blue agave tequila. Cultivated in the highest elevations of the Los Altos Highlands region of Jalisco where mineral-rich volcanic soil and a temperate climate affords greater flavor maturity, agave farming for Casa Camarena is overseen by 25-year industry veteran and sixth generation family member, Mauricio Camarena.

"Tequila making is in my family's blood. It is not a job or hobby, but a way of life. We began as agave growers, where for nearly 80 years my family spent their days understanding the land and climate, selling to local tequila producers," said Camarena. "Today, almost 75 years after bottling our first tequila in 1938, it is a true honor to continue my family's legacy with a premium tequila that showcases the rich history and exciting future ahead for the Camarena family."

In Arandas where Familia Camarena Tequila is produced, the Camarena family has spared no shortcuts, enlisting the expertise and leadership of renowned Master Distiller, Miguel Cedeno Cruz. Under Senor 'Cedeno's direction, Familia Camarena Tequila's development endures a rigorous hands-on process of traditional volcanic oven slow-roasting of the agave, chemical-free milling, closely supervised fermentation and small-batch pot-still distillation. The bottling line is no exception, where all bottles are inspected, bottled and labeled by hand.

Delivering the highlands' signature sweet, fragrant and floral profiles, Familia Camarena Tequila has already earned critical acclaim from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition held in March where a Gold Medal was awarded to Familia Camarena Reposado and a Bronze Medal to Familia Camarena Silver.

In partnership with the domestic importer, Alto Spirits LTD, Familia Camarena Tequila is launching in California and Nevada with both Silver and Reposado bottlings available in 50mL, 200mL, 750mL and 1.75L sizes. The suggested retail price of each expression in the 750mL size is $20. For more information, visit www.tequilacamarena.com.




MEDIA CONTACT:

Kylie Garrett

Calhoun & Company Communications

(415) 346-2929

kylie@calhounwine.com






SOURCE Familia Camarena Tequila

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Reportlinker.com announces that a new market research report is available in its catalogue:

Global market review of world whiskies – forecasts to 2014

http://www.reportlinker.com/p0183525/Global-market-review-of-world-whiskies-–-forecasts-to-2014.html

The non-Scotch whisk(e)y market – chiefly comprising Irish, American, Canadian, Indian and Japanese whiskies – is one of the largest growth areas of the global wine and spirits industry. The performance of the three most international non-Scotch whisk(e)y categories – US, Canadian and Irish – has been more varied. Irish whiskey is currently the most rapidly rising of the three, accelerating at an impressive rate and rising by 8% CAGR between 2003 and 2008 to reach 4.46m cases.

The real reason for optimism in Irish whiskey is the development of the US market where sales surpassed 1m cases for the first time in 2008. Irish whiskey remained among the fastest growing categories in 2009 despite the economic crisis. Much of this has been driven by Jameson, which has a premium price positioning in the US. There is a sense that both the brand and category is at the beginning of what could be explosive long-term growth in this lucrative market. Diageo is also very strong in the US and it is only a matter of time before it uses that distribution clout to establish Bushmills to a greater extent.

The significantly larger US whiskey category is also enjoying a period of steady growth, with volumes rising by 2% CAGR between 2003 and 2008 to reach 29.4m cases.

Non-Scotch whiskies tend to be more mixable than Scotch because they are unpeated. Bourbon, in particular, has a sweeter product profile and tends to mix well with cola. This is an important consideration at a time when cocktail consumption is growing around the world.

With over 70 data tables providing brand consumption volumes across all major markets, plus interviews with the leading brand owners, this report is essential reading for anyone involved in this developing sector of the international spirits industry.

The report begins with Chapter 1 Executive summary, then provides a market overview in Chapter 2 Scope of the market.

The increase in the various categories within non-Scotch whisk(e)y has been far from uniform. Indian whisky has been enjoying tearaway growth as economic prosperity encourages consumers to trade up from local unbranded spirits to branded whisky and other spirits. Brazilian whisky has been growing for similar reasons – albeit at a slower pace – and displayed 1% CAGR between 2003 and 2008, reaching 1.5m cases.

Cooley Distillery sales and marketing director Jack Teeling says: "The culture and the people of Central and Eastern Europe have none of the history of drinking Scotch whisky, so you're not competing with this entrenched perception that whisk(e)y should be Scotch. They also have a great affiliation with Irish culture and its associated pub culture. These countries see Ireland as a fun, easy and accessible nation and all things Irish are perceived to be of a high quality. You're finding that American and Irish whiskey are taking a much larger percentage of those markets than they are in more mature markets where they're competing against a very strong tradition and knowledge of Scottish whisky."

Chapter 3 Industry structure

On the whole, non-Scotch whiskies have relatively underdeveloped super-premium segments – at least compared with other categories such as Scotch, brandy or vodka. This tends to limit their appeal in markets such as north-east Asia, Russia and travel retail, where purchasing for prestige, status and gifting is a key motivation.

This is beginning to change. For instance, American whiskey producers have enjoyed some success in the US recently in developing super-premium 'small batch' whiskies.

This chapter looks at the different non-Scotch categories and how the industry is structured for them. It also discusses the underdeveloped super-premium tier, mixability, innovations, demand and supply, and US whiskey's march.

Chapter 4 The markets

This chapter provides a complete review of the major global markets for world whiskies.

Heaven Hill president Max Shapira: "US whiskey is one of the better-performing categories in the entire range of distilled spirits, which is a tribute to the robust base that has been built for category and brands within it. When the domestic and worldwide economies recover, Bourbon is poised to continue to expand and increase market share within the whisk(e)y category in the years ahead."

This chapter provides market volumes of the top categories, brands and brand owners in each key market reviewed (United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, United Kingdom, Ireland, Italy, France, Spain, Germany, Sweden, Poland, Czech Republic, Russia, China, Japan, India, Australia, South Africa, and Travel Retail).

Chapter 5 The companies

Here, the main players are profiled including Pernod Ricard, Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Brown-Forman and Diageo. Each company's top brands' global volumes are provided and each of their leading brand's major market volumes are also given.

Chapter 1 Executive summary

Chapter 2 Scope of the market

Chapter 3 Industry structure

Irish whiskey

Canadian whisky

US whiskey

Underdeveloped super-premium tier

Mixability

Innovations

Demand and supply

US whiskey on the march

Irish whiskey explodes in export markets

Chapter 4 The markets

The Americas

United States

US whiskey

Canadian whisky

Irish whiskey

Canada

Canadian whisky

US whiskey

Mexico

US whiskey

Brazil

US whiskey

Brazilian whisky

Europe

US whiskey

Irish whiskey

Ireland

Irish whiskey

Italy

US whiskey

France

Irish whiskey

Canadian whisky

US whiskey

Spain

US whiskey

Local Spanish whiskies

Germany

US whiskey

Irish whiskey

Sweden

Irish whiskey

Canadian whisky

Eastern Europe

Poland

US whiskey

The Czech Republic

Irish whiskey

Russia

US whiskey

Irish whiskey

Asia-Pacific

China

US whiskey

Japan

US whiskey

Japanese whisky

India

US whiskey

Indian whisky

Australia

US whiskey

Canadian whiskey

The rest of the world

South Africa

US whiskies

Irish whiskey

Canadian whisky

South African whisky

Travel retail

US whiskey

Irish whiskey

Chapter 5 The companies

Pernod Ricard

Beam Global Spirits & Wine

Brown-Forman

List of tables

Table 1: Total global consumption volume for US, Canadian, Irish and Other whisk(e)y, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 2: Share of imported Scotch, non-Scotch whisk(e)y, Cognac/Armagnac in Brazil, 2003-2014 (% share)

Table 3: Share of imported Scotch, non-Scotch whisk(e)y, Cognac/Armagnac in Russia, 2003-2014 (% share)

Table 4: Share of imported Scotch, non-Scotch whisk(e)y, Cognac/Armagnac in India, 2003-2014 (% share)

Table 5: Share of imported Scotch, non-Scotch whisk(e)y, Cognac/Armagnac in China, 2003-2014 (% share)

Table 6: Top 5 Irish whiskey brand owners, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 7: Top ten Canadian whisky brand owners, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 8: Top ten US whiskey brand owners, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 9: Top 25 US whiskey markets, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 10: Top 30 Irish whiskey markets, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 11: US whiskey volume in United States by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 12: Top nine brand volumes of US whiskey in United States, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 13: Canadian whisky volume in United States by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 14: Top nine brand volumes of Canadian whisky in United States, 2003-2008 (000's ninelitre cases)

Table 15: Irish whiskey volume in United States by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 16: Top nine brand volumes of Irish whiskey in United States, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 17: Canadian whisky volume in Canada by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 18: Top ten brand volumes of Canadian whisky in Canada, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 19: US whiskey volume in Canada by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 20: Top ten brand volumes of US whiskey in Canada, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 21: Top 5 brand volumes of US whiskey in Mexico, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 22: Share of imported Scotch, non-Scotch whisk(e)y, Cognac/Armagnac in Mexico, 2003-2014 (% share)

Table 23: Top ten brand volumes of non-Scotch in Brazil, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 24: US whiskey volume in UK by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 25: Top eight brand volumes of US whiskey in UK, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 26: Irish whiskey volume in UK by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 27: Top ten brand volumes of Irish whiskey in UK, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 28: Irish whiskey volume in Ireland by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 29: Top nine brand volumes of Irish whiskey in Ireland, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 30: Top three brand volumes of US whiskey in Ireland, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 31: Top ten brand volumes of non-Scotch in Italy, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 32: Top six brand volumes of Irish whiskey in France, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 33: Top five brand volumes of Canadian whisky in France, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 34: Top ten brand volumes of US whiskey in France, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 35: Top nine brand volumes of US whiskey in Spain, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 36: Top four brand volumes of Spanish whisky in Spain, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 37: Top ten brand volumes of US whiskey in Germany, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 38: Top five brand volumes of Irish whiskey in Germany, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 39: Top ten brand volumes of non-Scotch in Poland, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 40: Top ten brand volumes of non-Scotch in Czech Republic, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 41: Top ten brand volumes of non-Scotch in Russia, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 42: Top ten brand volumes of non-Scotch in China, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 43: Top ten brand volumes of non-Scotch in Japan, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 44: Top ten brand volumes of non-Scotch (excl. Japanese) in Japan, 2003-2008 (000's ninelitre cases)

Table 45: Top ten brand volumes of Japanese whisky in Japan, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 46: Top Japanese whisky producers, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 47: Top eight brand volumes of non-Scotch (excl. Indian) in India, 2003-2008 (000's ninelitre cases)

Table 48: Top brand lines of Indian whisky, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 49: Top eight Indian whisky producers, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 50: US whiskey volume in Australia by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 51: Top ten brand volumes of US whiskey in Australia, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 52: Canadian whisky volume in Australia by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 53: Top brand volumes of Canadian whisky in Australia, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 54: Top ten brand volumes of non-Scotch in South Africa, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 55: Share of imported Scotch, non-Scotch whisk(e)y, Cognac/Armagnac in South Africa, 2003-2014 (% share)

Table 56: Top nine brand volumes of US whiskey in Travel retail, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 57: US whiskey volume in Travel retail by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 58: Top 5 US whiskey brand owners in Travel retail, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 59: Top nine brand volumes of Irish whiskey in Travel retail, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 60: Irish whiskey volume in Travel retail by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 61: Top four Irish whiskey brand owners in Travel retail, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 62: Top nine brand volumes of Canadian whisky in Travel retail, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 63: Top five Canadian whisky brand owners in Travel retail, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 64: Canadian whisky volume in Travel retail by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 65: Top ten markets for Jameson, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 66: Pernod Ricard's top 11 Irish whiskey brands, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 67: Beam Global's top ten non-Scotch whisk(e)y brands, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 68: Top ten markets for Jim Beam, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 69: Brown Forman's top five non-Scotch whisk(e)y brands, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 70: Top ten markets for Jack Daniel's, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 71: Diageo's top ten non-Scotch whisk(e)y brands, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 72: Top ten markets for Crown Royal, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

To order this report:

Alcoholic Drink Industry: Global market review of world whiskies – forecasts to 2014

More  Market Research Report

Check our  Company Profile, SWOT and Revenue Analysis!

__________________________

Contact Nicolas: nbo@reportlinker.com

US: (805)-652-2626

Intl: +1 805-652-2626

SOURCE Reportlinker

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For the past year Tequila CAZADORES®, the number-one premium tequila in the world(1) and Official Spirits Sponsor of the Ultimate Fighting Championship® ("UFC®"), has awarded UFC fighters with the Tequila CAZADORES Authentic Spirit Award.  These winners have embodied the core values of the brand demonstrating the following qualities: social responsibility, commitment to the mixed martial arts ("MMA") art form, or good sportsmanship.  To pay tribute to this successful program and the efforts of these fighters, a culmination award will be presented to the fighter who has best exemplified these values over the past 12 months.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100324/NY76034 )

One winner has stood out above all others for his enthusiasm, passion and unfailing commitment to giving back to those in need.  Light-Heavyweight fighter, Brian Stann will accept the culmination award at UFC 111 in New York City and $10,000 towards his charity, Hire Heroes.  

Hire Heroes is a program which links wounded veterans returning from conflicts around the world and those who have served in the military with career opportunities. In March of 2006, Stann was awarded a Silver Star medal for his actions and bravery during combat in Iraq, making this charity and cause very dear to his heart.

As spokesperson and proud supporter, Stann is passionate about assisting veterans' transition back to civilian life by matching their interests and skills with the needs of hiring companies. As the overall winner, Tequila CAZADORES will present Stann with a special Authentic Spirit Award plaque and a $10,000 donation made in his name to Hire Heroes.

"The Authentic Spirit Award program has been extremely successful in driving enthusiasm for the brand's sponsorship with UFC, while acknowledging extraordinary fighters for their commitment to social responsibility and good sportsmanship," said Fannie Young, vice president and brand managing director, Tequila CAZADORES.  "Brian Stann not only showcases the passion and dedication it takes to make changes in the world around us, but the ability to incite this determination in others."  

Tequila CAZADORES is the Official Spirit Sponsor of the Ultimate Fighting Championship® ("UFC®"). UFC is the world's leading professional mixed martial arts organization ("MMA") that offers a premier series of MMA sporting events.  The Authentic Spirit Award is an honor that has been presented to the UFC fighter who best exemplifies social responsibility, commitment to the MMA art form, or good sportsmanship. Each month the winning fighter was presented with a plaque and a $1,000 check from Tequila CAZADORES to the fighter's charity of choice.  

Past winners have included:

  • Forrest Griffin - Wounded Warrior Project
  • Rich Franklin - Disabled American Veterans Organization
  • Randy Couture - Xtreme Couture GI Foundation
  • Kenny Florian - Special Operations Warrior Foundation
  • Nate Marquardt  - Sharon Antcliff Foundation
  • Tito Ortiz - St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
  • Brandon Vera - Ysabel's Pink Angels
  • Cain Velasquez - Make-A-Wish Foundation
  • Frank Mir - St. Jude's Ranch for Children
  • Brian Stann - Hire Heroes

About Tequila CAZADORES®

Tequila CAZADORES is the maker of the number-one premium tequila in the world(1) and the number-one Reposado Tequila in California(2).  It is renowned as one of the most popular premium tequilas in Mexico. Tequila CAZADORES is made with 100 percent blue agave grown, harvested and distilled in the Highlands of Jalisco, Mexico, recognized as the premier agave growing region in the world, resulting in a smoother, more flavorful taste. For additional information about Tequila CAZADORES please visit www.cazadores.com.

About Bacardi U.S.A., Inc.

Bacardi U.S.A., Inc. is the import, sales and marketing arm of one of the world's leading wine and spirits producers. Bacardi U.S.A. boasts a brand portfolio of some of the most recognized and top-selling spirits in the United States including: BACARDI® rum, the world's favorite and best-selling premium rum, as well as the world's most awarded rum; GREY GOOSE® vodka, the world-leader in super-premium vodka; DEWAR'S® Scotch whisky, the number-one selling blended Scotch whisky in the United States; BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® gin, the top-valued premium gin in the world; CAZADORES® blue agave tequila, the top-selling premium tequila worldwide; MARTINI® vermouth, the world-leader in vermouth; and other leading and emerging brands.

About The Ultimate Fighting Championship®

The Ultimate Fighting Championship® is the world's leading professional mixed martial arts organization and offers the premier series of MMA sports events. Owned and operated by Zuffa™, LLC, and headquartered in Las Vegas, Nev., UFC® produces over twelve live pay-per-view events annually that are distributed residentially through North American cable and satellite providers including iNDEMAND Networks, DIRECTV, DISH Network, TVN Entertainment, Bell ExpressVU, SaskTel Max™, Shaw Pay-Per-View, Viewers Choice, and WOWOW in Japan, and Premiere Combate and SporTV in Brazil, and via the Internet worldwide on Yahoo! Sports, and commercially through Joe Hand Promotions in the U.S. and Canadastar in Canada.  In addition to its North American distribution, UFC programming is distributed in over 100 countries and territories throughout the world. For more information, or current UFC fight news, visit ufc.com or uk.ufc.com or ufcespanol.com.

For additional information:

Melanie Klausner, Account Supervisor

CORBIN-HILLMAN COMMUNICATIONS

Melanie@corbinpr.com

(646) 233-0453


Joe Gerbino, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications & Public Relations

BACARDI U.S.A., INC.

jgerbino@bacardi.com

(786) 264-8421



DRINK RESPONSIBLY. DISFRUTE CON MODERACION

©2010 CAZADORES IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK AND THE DEER DEVICE IS A TRADEMARK. IMPORTED BY TEQUILA CAZADORES U.S.A., SEAL BEACH, CA. TEQUILAS - EACH 40% ALC. BY VOL.

Ultimate Fighting Championship®, Ultimate Fighting®, UFC®, The Ultimate Fighter®, Submission®, As Real As It Gets®, Zuffa™, The Octagon™ and the eight-sided competition mat and cage design are registered trademarks, trademarks, trade dress or service marks owned exclusively by Zuffa, LLC in the United States and other jurisdictions. All other marks referenced herein may be the property of Zuffa, LLC or other respective owners.

(1) 2007 International Wine & Spirit Record (IWSR)

(2) 2009 The Nielsen Company

SOURCE Tequila CAZADORES(R)

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http://www.cazadores.com

Alex Guarachi was born and raised in Santiago, Chile. The Guarachi family, like most Chilean families, felt wine was an important part of any meal as well as a way of life. In 1976, Alex went off to California to attend college and to follow his first passion in life - soccer. After a successful collegiate soccer career, Alex would find a second passion in fine wines.

This passion led Alex to create TGIC Importers, Inc., where he began importing Chilean wine into the United States over 25 years ago. What began as a one-man show operating out of his garage has since grown into a globally recognized company boasting a portfolio of some of the finest wines from not only Chile, but also Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, Italy, and California.

Today, TGIC Importers is recognized as the leading importer of South American wines in the United States. Now after a quarter century of tasting, judging and assisting in the production and marketing of wines for other wineries, Alex's dream of producing his own wines has been realized with the inaugural bottling of three Guarachi Family wines: Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 (Napa Valley), Pinot Noir 2008 (Sonoma Coast) and Chardonnay 2008 (Sonoma Mountain). These bold, rich and stylish wines come from some of the most prominent vineyards and appellations in Napa and Sonoma counties. The wines were hand-crafted with the help of one of Alex's closest friends, the internationally-renowned winemaker, Paul Hobbs.

Now, after five years in the making, Alex is proud to share with you his vision and passion for fine California wine with the highly anticipated Guarachi Family Wines.

SOURCE TGIC Importers, Inc.

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http://www.tgicimporters.com

For the past year Tequila CAZADORES®, the number-one premium tequila in the world(1) and Official Spirits Sponsor of the Ultimate Fighting Championship® ("UFC®"), has awarded UFC fighters with the Tequila CAZADORES Authentic Spirit Award.  These winners have embodied the core values of the brand demonstrating the following qualities: social responsibility, commitment to the mixed martial arts ("MMA") art form, or good sportsmanship.  To pay tribute to this successful program and the efforts of these fighters, a culmination award will be presented to the fighter who has best exemplified these values over the past 12 months.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100324/NY76034 )

One winner has stood out above all others for his enthusiasm, passion and unfailing commitment to giving back to those in need.  Light-Heavyweight fighter, Brian Stann will accept the culmination award at UFC 111 in New York City and $10,000 towards his charity, Hire Heroes.  

Hire Heroes is a program which links wounded veterans returning from conflicts around the world and those who have served in the military with career opportunities. In March of 2006, Stann was awarded a Silver Star medal for his actions and bravery during combat in Iraq, making this charity and cause very dear to his heart.

As spokesperson and proud supporter, Stann is passionate about assisting veterans' transition back to civilian life by matching their interests and skills with the needs of hiring companies. As the overall winner, Tequila CAZADORES will present Stann with a special Authentic Spirit Award plaque and a $10,000 donation made in his name to Hire Heroes.

"The Authentic Spirit Award program has been extremely successful in driving enthusiasm for the brand's sponsorship with UFC, while acknowledging extraordinary fighters for their commitment to social responsibility and good sportsmanship," said Fannie Young, vice president and brand managing director, Tequila CAZADORES.  "Brian Stann not only showcases the passion and dedication it takes to make changes in the world around us, but the ability to incite this determination in others."  

Tequila CAZADORES is the Official Spirit Sponsor of the Ultimate Fighting Championship® ("UFC®"). UFC is the world's leading professional mixed martial arts organization ("MMA") that offers a premier series of MMA sporting events.  The Authentic Spirit Award is an honor that has been presented to the UFC fighter who best exemplifies social responsibility, commitment to the MMA art form, or good sportsmanship. Each month the winning fighter was presented with a plaque and a $1,000 check from Tequila CAZADORES to the fighter's charity of choice.  

Past winners have included:

  • Forrest Griffin - Wounded Warrior Project
  • Rich Franklin - Disabled American Veterans Organization
  • Randy Couture - Xtreme Couture GI Foundation
  • Kenny Florian - Special Operations Warrior Foundation
  • Nate Marquardt  - Sharon Antcliff Foundation
  • Tito Ortiz - St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
  • Brandon Vera - Ysabel's Pink Angels
  • Cain Velasquez - Make-A-Wish Foundation
  • Frank Mir - St. Jude's Ranch for Children
  • Brian Stann - Hire Heroes

About Tequila CAZADORES®

Tequila CAZADORES is the maker of the number-one premium tequila in the world(1) and the number-one Reposado Tequila in California(2).  It is renowned as one of the most popular premium tequilas in Mexico. Tequila CAZADORES is made with 100 percent blue agave grown, harvested and distilled in the Highlands of Jalisco, Mexico, recognized as the premier agave growing region in the world, resulting in a smoother, more flavorful taste. For additional information about Tequila CAZADORES please visit www.cazadores.com.

About Bacardi U.S.A., Inc.

Bacardi U.S.A., Inc. is the import, sales and marketing arm of one of the world's leading wine and spirits producers. Bacardi U.S.A. boasts a brand portfolio of some of the most recognized and top-selling spirits in the United States including: BACARDI® rum, the world's favorite and best-selling premium rum, as well as the world's most awarded rum; GREY GOOSE® vodka, the world-leader in super-premium vodka; DEWAR'S® Scotch whisky, the number-one selling blended Scotch whisky in the United States; BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® gin, the top-valued premium gin in the world; CAZADORES® blue agave tequila, the top-selling premium tequila worldwide; MARTINI® vermouth, the world-leader in vermouth; and other leading and emerging brands.

About The Ultimate Fighting Championship®

The Ultimate Fighting Championship® is the world's leading professional mixed martial arts organization and offers the premier series of MMA sports events. Owned and operated by Zuffa™, LLC, and headquartered in Las Vegas, Nev., UFC® produces over twelve live pay-per-view events annually that are distributed residentially through North American cable and satellite providers including iNDEMAND Networks, DIRECTV, DISH Network, TVN Entertainment, Bell ExpressVU, SaskTel Max™, Shaw Pay-Per-View, Viewers Choice, and WOWOW in Japan, and Premiere Combate and SporTV in Brazil, and via the Internet worldwide on Yahoo! Sports, and commercially through Joe Hand Promotions in the U.S. and Canadastar in Canada.  In addition to its North American distribution, UFC programming is distributed in over 100 countries and territories throughout the world. For more information, or current UFC fight news, visit ufc.com or uk.ufc.com or ufcespanol.com.

For additional information:

Melanie Klausner, Account Supervisor

CORBIN-HILLMAN COMMUNICATIONS

Melanie@corbinpr.com

(646) 233-0453


Joe Gerbino, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications & Public Relations

BACARDI U.S.A., INC.

jgerbino@bacardi.com

(786) 264-8421



DRINK RESPONSIBLY. DISFRUTE CON MODERACION

©2010 CAZADORES IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK AND THE DEER DEVICE IS A TRADEMARK. IMPORTED BY TEQUILA CAZADORES U.S.A., SEAL BEACH, CA. TEQUILAS - EACH 40% ALC. BY VOL.

Ultimate Fighting Championship®, Ultimate Fighting®, UFC®, The Ultimate Fighter®, Submission®, As Real As It Gets®, Zuffa™, The Octagon™ and the eight-sided competition mat and cage design are registered trademarks, trademarks, trade dress or service marks owned exclusively by Zuffa, LLC in the United States and other jurisdictions. All other marks referenced herein may be the property of Zuffa, LLC or other respective owners.

(1) 2007 International Wine & Spirit Record (IWSR)

(2) 2009 The Nielsen Company

SOURCE Tequila CAZADORES(R)

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http://www.cazadores.com

BAA Cleveland, developer of the AIRMALL® at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE), continues to transform the face of the terminal with the addition of exciting, new retail and dining concepts.  The following brands have signed lease agreements to open storefronts at the AIRMALL® at CLE:

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090304/NE78862LOGO )

  • UFood Grill will bring its menu of organic, natural options, making it easy to eat smart.  The quick-serve concept offers better-for-you versions of traditional favorites and innovative original creations that are never fried.  Selections include smoothies, wraps, soups, salads, grilled items, sandwiches and more.  Operated by locally-based JJR Concessions, LLC, UFood Grill (1,000 sq. ft) will be located on Concourse B and is scheduled to open in mid-summer 2010.  
  • Cuban Crafters will offer cigars, humidors, cigar gifts and accessories.  The brand's boutique premium cigars are handmade with special attention to detail.  Cuban Crafters also offers a money-back guarantee on its products.  The unit (1,000 sq. ft.) will be located on Concourse D and is also expected to open in mid-summer 2010.

"The AIRMALL® at CLE has already unveiled a wide variety of national and local brands, and we are pleased to offer these two high-quality concepts to the line-up," said Tina LaForte, vice president of BAA Cleveland. "Moreover, the products and services at both UFood Grill and Cuban Crafters are offered at 'Regular Mall Prices…Guaranteed,' a hallmark of the AIRMALL®."

"We continue to receive very positive feedback from passengers at the airport, who are embracing the dramatic transformation of concessions that is under way," added Airport Director Ricky Smith. "These two new brands will certainly add to that effort, and we look forward to the opening of these two units."

The City of Cleveland forged a 10-year contract with BAA Cleveland in February 2008 to develop and manage concessions at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE).  The city anticipates the AIRMALL® will double the current participation rate of local and minority-owned companies, dramatically increase the number of concession jobs, and double retail sales figures during the next decade.  

When complete, the AIRMALL® at CLE will occupy 76,000 square feet of retail space.

About BAA Cleveland

BAA Cleveland, Inc. is the developer and manager of the retail and concessions program at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE).  In 2008, BAA entered into a ten-year contract with the City of Cleveland to transform the retail, food and beverage concessions into the AIRMALL® at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, a strategic combination of well-known national brands and high-quality local concepts offered at "Regular Mall Prices…Guaranteed."  BAA Cleveland is a project of BAA USA, the developer and manager of the retail, food and beverage operations at the AIRMALLs® at Pittsburgh International Airport, Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, and Boston Logan International Airport (Terminals B and E).  BAA USA is an affiliate of BAA Limited, the world's leading airport company, which owns and operates six UK airports (Heathrow, Stansted, Southampton, Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow).  For more information, visit www.airmall.com or www.baausa.com.

Contact: Jeff Donaldson

For BAA Cleveland

412-642-7700

jeff.donaldson@elias-savion.com  



SOURCE BAA Cleveland

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Two and a half centuries after co-founding the Mexican town of Arandas, today's epicenter of highland tequila production, legendary tequila-producing family Camarena has unveiled Familia Camarena Tequila, a new premium tequila crafted from 100 percent blue agave. A testament to the regional flavors of the Los Altos Highlands, the new Familia Camarena Tequila is a culmination of six Camarena generations whose influence on the refinement of quality tequila production has shaped the standards of modern-day premium tequila.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100326/SF77217)

Available in two expressions, Silver and Reposado, Familia Camarena Tequila showcases only traditional methods of agave preparation, fermentation and distillation to produce 100 percent blue agave tequila. Cultivated in the highest elevations of the Los Altos Highlands region of Jalisco where mineral-rich volcanic soil and a temperate climate affords greater flavor maturity, agave farming for Casa Camarena is overseen by 25-year industry veteran and sixth generation family member, Mauricio Camarena.

"Tequila making is in my family's blood. It is not a job or hobby, but a way of life. We began as agave growers, where for nearly 80 years my family spent their days understanding the land and climate, selling to local tequila producers," said Camarena. "Today, almost 75 years after bottling our first tequila in 1938, it is a true honor to continue my family's legacy with a premium tequila that showcases the rich history and exciting future ahead for the Camarena family."

In Arandas where Familia Camarena Tequila is produced, the Camarena family has spared no shortcuts, enlisting the expertise and leadership of renowned Master Distiller, Miguel Cedeno Cruz. Under Senor 'Cedeno's direction, Familia Camarena Tequila's development endures a rigorous hands-on process of traditional volcanic oven slow-roasting of the agave, chemical-free milling, closely supervised fermentation and small-batch pot-still distillation. The bottling line is no exception, where all bottles are inspected, bottled and labeled by hand.

Delivering the highlands' signature sweet, fragrant and floral profiles, Familia Camarena Tequila has already earned critical acclaim from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition held in March where a Gold Medal was awarded to Familia Camarena Reposado and a Bronze Medal to Familia Camarena Silver.

In partnership with the domestic importer, Alto Spirits LTD, Familia Camarena Tequila is launching in California and Nevada with both Silver and Reposado bottlings available in 50mL, 200mL, 750mL and 1.75L sizes. The suggested retail price of each expression in the 750mL size is $20. For more information, visit www.tequilacamarena.com.




MEDIA CONTACT:

Kylie Garrett

Calhoun & Company Communications

(415) 346-2929

kylie@calhounwine.com






SOURCE Familia Camarena Tequila

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http://www.tequilacamarena.com

Reportlinker.com announces that a new market research report is available in its catalogue:

Global market review of world whiskies – forecasts to 2014

http://www.reportlinker.com/p0183525/Global-market-review-of-world-whiskies-–-forecasts-to-2014.html

The non-Scotch whisk(e)y market – chiefly comprising Irish, American, Canadian, Indian and Japanese whiskies – is one of the largest growth areas of the global wine and spirits industry. The performance of the three most international non-Scotch whisk(e)y categories – US, Canadian and Irish – has been more varied. Irish whiskey is currently the most rapidly rising of the three, accelerating at an impressive rate and rising by 8% CAGR between 2003 and 2008 to reach 4.46m cases.

The real reason for optimism in Irish whiskey is the development of the US market where sales surpassed 1m cases for the first time in 2008. Irish whiskey remained among the fastest growing categories in 2009 despite the economic crisis. Much of this has been driven by Jameson, which has a premium price positioning in the US. There is a sense that both the brand and category is at the beginning of what could be explosive long-term growth in this lucrative market. Diageo is also very strong in the US and it is only a matter of time before it uses that distribution clout to establish Bushmills to a greater extent.

The significantly larger US whiskey category is also enjoying a period of steady growth, with volumes rising by 2% CAGR between 2003 and 2008 to reach 29.4m cases.

Non-Scotch whiskies tend to be more mixable than Scotch because they are unpeated. Bourbon, in particular, has a sweeter product profile and tends to mix well with cola. This is an important consideration at a time when cocktail consumption is growing around the world.

With over 70 data tables providing brand consumption volumes across all major markets, plus interviews with the leading brand owners, this report is essential reading for anyone involved in this developing sector of the international spirits industry.

The report begins with Chapter 1 Executive summary, then provides a market overview in Chapter 2 Scope of the market.

The increase in the various categories within non-Scotch whisk(e)y has been far from uniform. Indian whisky has been enjoying tearaway growth as economic prosperity encourages consumers to trade up from local unbranded spirits to branded whisky and other spirits. Brazilian whisky has been growing for similar reasons – albeit at a slower pace – and displayed 1% CAGR between 2003 and 2008, reaching 1.5m cases.

Cooley Distillery sales and marketing director Jack Teeling says: "The culture and the people of Central and Eastern Europe have none of the history of drinking Scotch whisky, so you're not competing with this entrenched perception that whisk(e)y should be Scotch. They also have a great affiliation with Irish culture and its associated pub culture. These countries see Ireland as a fun, easy and accessible nation and all things Irish are perceived to be of a high quality. You're finding that American and Irish whiskey are taking a much larger percentage of those markets than they are in more mature markets where they're competing against a very strong tradition and knowledge of Scottish whisky."

Chapter 3 Industry structure

On the whole, non-Scotch whiskies have relatively underdeveloped super-premium segments – at least compared with other categories such as Scotch, brandy or vodka. This tends to limit their appeal in markets such as north-east Asia, Russia and travel retail, where purchasing for prestige, status and gifting is a key motivation.

This is beginning to change. For instance, American whiskey producers have enjoyed some success in the US recently in developing super-premium 'small batch' whiskies.

This chapter looks at the different non-Scotch categories and how the industry is structured for them. It also discusses the underdeveloped super-premium tier, mixability, innovations, demand and supply, and US whiskey's march.

Chapter 4 The markets

This chapter provides a complete review of the major global markets for world whiskies.

Heaven Hill president Max Shapira: "US whiskey is one of the better-performing categories in the entire range of distilled spirits, which is a tribute to the robust base that has been built for category and brands within it. When the domestic and worldwide economies recover, Bourbon is poised to continue to expand and increase market share within the whisk(e)y category in the years ahead."

This chapter provides market volumes of the top categories, brands and brand owners in each key market reviewed (United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, United Kingdom, Ireland, Italy, France, Spain, Germany, Sweden, Poland, Czech Republic, Russia, China, Japan, India, Australia, South Africa, and Travel Retail).

Chapter 5 The companies

Here, the main players are profiled including Pernod Ricard, Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Brown-Forman and Diageo. Each company's top brands' global volumes are provided and each of their leading brand's major market volumes are also given.

Chapter 1 Executive summary

Chapter 2 Scope of the market

Chapter 3 Industry structure

Irish whiskey

Canadian whisky

US whiskey

Underdeveloped super-premium tier

Mixability

Innovations

Demand and supply

US whiskey on the march

Irish whiskey explodes in export markets

Chapter 4 The markets

The Americas

United States

US whiskey

Canadian whisky

Irish whiskey

Canada

Canadian whisky

US whiskey

Mexico

US whiskey

Brazil

US whiskey

Brazilian whisky

Europe

US whiskey

Irish whiskey

Ireland

Irish whiskey

Italy

US whiskey

France

Irish whiskey

Canadian whisky

US whiskey

Spain

US whiskey

Local Spanish whiskies

Germany

US whiskey

Irish whiskey

Sweden

Irish whiskey

Canadian whisky

Eastern Europe

Poland

US whiskey

The Czech Republic

Irish whiskey

Russia

US whiskey

Irish whiskey

Asia-Pacific

China

US whiskey

Japan

US whiskey

Japanese whisky

India

US whiskey

Indian whisky

Australia

US whiskey

Canadian whiskey

The rest of the world

South Africa

US whiskies

Irish whiskey

Canadian whisky

South African whisky

Travel retail

US whiskey

Irish whiskey

Chapter 5 The companies

Pernod Ricard

Beam Global Spirits & Wine

Brown-Forman

List of tables

Table 1: Total global consumption volume for US, Canadian, Irish and Other whisk(e)y, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 2: Share of imported Scotch, non-Scotch whisk(e)y, Cognac/Armagnac in Brazil, 2003-2014 (% share)

Table 3: Share of imported Scotch, non-Scotch whisk(e)y, Cognac/Armagnac in Russia, 2003-2014 (% share)

Table 4: Share of imported Scotch, non-Scotch whisk(e)y, Cognac/Armagnac in India, 2003-2014 (% share)

Table 5: Share of imported Scotch, non-Scotch whisk(e)y, Cognac/Armagnac in China, 2003-2014 (% share)

Table 6: Top 5 Irish whiskey brand owners, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 7: Top ten Canadian whisky brand owners, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 8: Top ten US whiskey brand owners, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 9: Top 25 US whiskey markets, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 10: Top 30 Irish whiskey markets, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 11: US whiskey volume in United States by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 12: Top nine brand volumes of US whiskey in United States, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 13: Canadian whisky volume in United States by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 14: Top nine brand volumes of Canadian whisky in United States, 2003-2008 (000's ninelitre cases)

Table 15: Irish whiskey volume in United States by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 16: Top nine brand volumes of Irish whiskey in United States, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 17: Canadian whisky volume in Canada by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 18: Top ten brand volumes of Canadian whisky in Canada, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 19: US whiskey volume in Canada by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 20: Top ten brand volumes of US whiskey in Canada, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 21: Top 5 brand volumes of US whiskey in Mexico, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 22: Share of imported Scotch, non-Scotch whisk(e)y, Cognac/Armagnac in Mexico, 2003-2014 (% share)

Table 23: Top ten brand volumes of non-Scotch in Brazil, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 24: US whiskey volume in UK by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 25: Top eight brand volumes of US whiskey in UK, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 26: Irish whiskey volume in UK by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 27: Top ten brand volumes of Irish whiskey in UK, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 28: Irish whiskey volume in Ireland by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 29: Top nine brand volumes of Irish whiskey in Ireland, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 30: Top three brand volumes of US whiskey in Ireland, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 31: Top ten brand volumes of non-Scotch in Italy, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 32: Top six brand volumes of Irish whiskey in France, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 33: Top five brand volumes of Canadian whisky in France, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 34: Top ten brand volumes of US whiskey in France, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 35: Top nine brand volumes of US whiskey in Spain, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 36: Top four brand volumes of Spanish whisky in Spain, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 37: Top ten brand volumes of US whiskey in Germany, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 38: Top five brand volumes of Irish whiskey in Germany, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 39: Top ten brand volumes of non-Scotch in Poland, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 40: Top ten brand volumes of non-Scotch in Czech Republic, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 41: Top ten brand volumes of non-Scotch in Russia, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 42: Top ten brand volumes of non-Scotch in China, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 43: Top ten brand volumes of non-Scotch in Japan, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 44: Top ten brand volumes of non-Scotch (excl. Japanese) in Japan, 2003-2008 (000's ninelitre cases)

Table 45: Top ten brand volumes of Japanese whisky in Japan, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 46: Top Japanese whisky producers, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 47: Top eight brand volumes of non-Scotch (excl. Indian) in India, 2003-2008 (000's ninelitre cases)

Table 48: Top brand lines of Indian whisky, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 49: Top eight Indian whisky producers, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 50: US whiskey volume in Australia by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 51: Top ten brand volumes of US whiskey in Australia, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 52: Canadian whisky volume in Australia by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 53: Top brand volumes of Canadian whisky in Australia, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 54: Top ten brand volumes of non-Scotch in South Africa, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 55: Share of imported Scotch, non-Scotch whisk(e)y, Cognac/Armagnac in South Africa, 2003-2014 (% share)

Table 56: Top nine brand volumes of US whiskey in Travel retail, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 57: US whiskey volume in Travel retail by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 58: Top 5 US whiskey brand owners in Travel retail, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 59: Top nine brand volumes of Irish whiskey in Travel retail, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 60: Irish whiskey volume in Travel retail by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 61: Top four Irish whiskey brand owners in Travel retail, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 62: Top nine brand volumes of Canadian whisky in Travel retail, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 63: Top five Canadian whisky brand owners in Travel retail, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 64: Canadian whisky volume in Travel retail by quality, 2003-2014 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 65: Top ten markets for Jameson, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 66: Pernod Ricard's top 11 Irish whiskey brands, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 67: Beam Global's top ten non-Scotch whisk(e)y brands, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 68: Top ten markets for Jim Beam, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 69: Brown Forman's top five non-Scotch whisk(e)y brands, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 70: Top ten markets for Jack Daniel's, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 71: Diageo's top ten non-Scotch whisk(e)y brands, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

Table 72: Top ten markets for Crown Royal, 2003-2008 (000's nine-litre cases)

To order this report:

Alcoholic Drink Industry: Global market review of world whiskies – forecasts to 2014

More  Market Research Report

Check our  Company Profile, SWOT and Revenue Analysis!

__________________________

Contact Nicolas: nbo@reportlinker.com

US: (805)-652-2626

Intl: +1 805-652-2626

SOURCE Reportlinker

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A new collection of artisan wines in an innovative attractive new package was announced today by Adam Richardson, Director of International Winemaking for Underdog Wine Merchants. The international wine collection is being launched with six brands and ten items packaged in a new exciting premium 3L wine cask format, the Octavin Home Wine Bar ™.

(Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100323/SF75220-a)

(Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100323/SF75220-b)

"This is the first time a collection of super-premium, artisan wines, representing some of the world's best wine regions, has ever been offered in a premium wine cask format," notes Adam. "The wines are sourced from preeminent and emerging wine growing regions including Monterey County; California Central Coast; Marlborough, New Zealand; Spain and Hungary. I am very proud of these wines; each has been crafted by an artisan winemaker to be true to their varietal character, country of origin and unique terroir. Naturally, we start with the best grapes but then, depending on the wine, we will use oak barrel aging, or in the case of our 'racy' whites, barrel and temperature-controlled fermentation. You just do not see this kind of artisan approach to winemaking at this price point, and all of us at Underdog Wine Merchants are very pleased to be able to offer consumers distinctive wines at a very affordable price."

Each Octavin Home Wine Bar holds 20 five-ounce glasses and keeps the wine fresh for up to six weeks after opening, so it can be easily enjoyed in under a month in adult households with daily wine drinkers. "It truly delivers artisan wine, a glass at a time," says Richardson.

The wines in the new artisan collection are Monthaven Central Coast Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot; Silver Birch New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc; Boho Vineyards California Old Vine Zinfandel; Pinot Evil Pinot Noir and Pinot Grigio; Big House Red and White; and Seven, produced from seven Spanish red varietals. Wines are distributed nationally with a SRP of $22-24.

The first wine to be released in the new Octavin Home Wine Bar is Monthaven Winery Monterey County Central Coast Chardonnay. Named for its home in Monterey County, California, this wine benefits from one of the world's longest growing seasons, resulting in a "distinctive full-bodied wine with balanced acidity," says Monthaven Winery winemaker Jeff Yamamoto, who works closely with Adam Richardson. " Monthaven Chardonnay is made in California's largest small-lot winery," notes Jeff. "This allows us to keep grapes from different micro-climates and vineyard blocks separate. The wine is carefully crafted in small lots and then barrel-aged. Adam and I selected American Oak for our Monthaven Chardonnay to assure that the fruit flavors shine through, accented by balanced oak notes and agreeable tannins."

Octavin Home Wine Bar bridges the wine world's interests in value, environmental positives and creative packaging. "By choosing an Octavin Home Wine Bar instead of glass bottles, consumers reduce packaging waste by 92% and carbon emissions by 55%; and it offers great value by providing the equivalent of four bottles of wine for the price of three," says Richardson. "This allows us to invest in making great wines rather than traditional expensive packaging. By eliminating glass bottle expense, we reduce packaging and shipping cost, and then pass the savings along to customers. These are wines without compromise, the same wines that would go into a bottle, but with the stylish Octavin Home Wine Bar, we can deliver these wines at an amazing price and with sustainable business practices."

Roger Boulton, Stephen Sinclair Scott Professor of Enology and chemical Engineering, Department of Viticulture and Enology, University of California recognizes the need for the wine industry to improve business practices in regard to sustainability. "One of the future challenges for the management of all wine businesses is the reduction of their carbon footprint. This number is made up of several contributions and a series of changes will need to be made probably requiring ongoing adaptation. There are questions of the ownership of these emissions - such as bottles and packaging - anything a wine company can do to reduce their carbon footprint will probably be viewed positively by consumers and the larger community. Any wine delivered to market that has resulted in one-third less carbon emissions is a significant and consequential improvement in business practices."

"We've been watching the industry as it adopts innovative packaging, e.g., Stelvin caps. Now, the logical progression is for the package itself used for everyday drinking. The Underdog Wine group has increasingly staked a claim on the premium 3L segment; the unique shape of Underdog's new package will further make their wines stand out from the crowd, "stated Eileen Fredrikson, Gomberg, Fredrikson & Associates.

Underdog Wine Merchants are champions of "hidden treasure" or under-appreciated wines-ones that are truly unique, of great value and the true "underdogs" of the wine world. For information about Underdog Wine Merchants, visit www.underdogwinemerchants.com.

For more information, visit www.OctavinHomeWineBar.com.

http://ww1.prweb.com/prfiles/2010/03/22/3766574/0_OctavinLogo.png

SOURCE Underdog Wine Merchants

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.underdogwinemerchants.com/
http://www.octavinhomewinebar.com/

Carlsberg, the world-renowned brewing group, and IBM ( IBM) today announced an extended agreement under which IBM will continue to deliver information technology (IT) services across 10 Carlsberg subsidiaries in Europe.  IBM will build a new SAP infrastructure for Carlsberg, leveraging the advantages of IBM POWER7 hardware, XIV storage and IBM System x servers.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090416/IBMLOGO )

The agreement is designed to support Carlsberg in further centralizing IT operations and services delivery, and can scale to include additional Carlsberg subsidiaries based on market demand.

The contract was signed in March 2010 and extends the original agreement signed in 2005, until the end of 2016.

Media Contacts

Carsten Groenning

Media Relations Manager, IBM Denmark

+ 45 2880 3516

cgr@dk.ibm.com


Tara Sucato

Media Relations, IBM U.S.

+ 917-472-3701

tjsucato@us.ibm.com



SOURCE IBM

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http://www.ibm.com

A new collection of artisan wines in an innovative attractive new package was announced today by Adam Richardson, Director of International Winemaking for Underdog Wine Merchants. The international wine collection is being launched with six brands and ten items packaged in a new exciting premium 3L wine cask format, the Octavin Home Wine Bar ™.

(Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100323/SF75220-a)

(Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100323/SF75220-b)

"This is the first time a collection of super-premium, artisan wines, representing some of the world's best wine regions, has ever been offered in a premium wine cask format," notes Adam. "The wines are sourced from preeminent and emerging wine growing regions including Monterey County; California Central Coast; Marlborough, New Zealand; Spain and Hungary. I am very proud of these wines; each has been crafted by an artisan winemaker to be true to their varietal character, country of origin and unique terroir. Naturally, we start with the best grapes but then, depending on the wine, we will use oak barrel aging, or in the case of our 'racy' whites, barrel and temperature-controlled fermentation. You just do not see this kind of artisan approach to winemaking at this price point, and all of us at Underdog Wine Merchants are very pleased to be able to offer consumers distinctive wines at a very affordable price."

Each Octavin Home Wine Bar holds 20 five-ounce glasses and keeps the wine fresh for up to six weeks after opening, so it can be easily enjoyed in under a month in adult households with daily wine drinkers. "It truly delivers artisan wine, a glass at a time," says Richardson.

The wines in the new artisan collection are Monthaven Central Coast Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot; Silver Birch New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc; Boho Vineyards California Old Vine Zinfandel; Pinot Evil Pinot Noir and Pinot Grigio; Big House Red and White; and Seven, produced from seven Spanish red varietals. Wines are distributed nationally with a SRP of $22-24.

The first wine to be released in the new Octavin Home Wine Bar is Monthaven Winery Monterey County Central Coast Chardonnay. Named for its home in Monterey County, California, this wine benefits from one of the world's longest growing seasons, resulting in a "distinctive full-bodied wine with balanced acidity," says Monthaven Winery winemaker Jeff Yamamoto, who works closely with Adam Richardson. " Monthaven Chardonnay is made in California's largest small-lot winery," notes Jeff. "This allows us to keep grapes from different micro-climates and vineyard blocks separate. The wine is carefully crafted in small lots and then barrel-aged. Adam and I selected American Oak for our Monthaven Chardonnay to assure that the fruit flavors shine through, accented by balanced oak notes and agreeable tannins."

Octavin Home Wine Bar bridges the wine world's interests in value, environmental positives and creative packaging. "By choosing an Octavin Home Wine Bar instead of glass bottles, consumers reduce packaging waste by 92% and carbon emissions by 55%; and it offers great value by providing the equivalent of four bottles of wine for the price of three," says Richardson. "This allows us to invest in making great wines rather than traditional expensive packaging. By eliminating glass bottle expense, we reduce packaging and shipping cost, and then pass the savings along to customers. These are wines without compromise, the same wines that would go into a bottle, but with the stylish Octavin Home Wine Bar, we can deliver these wines at an amazing price and with sustainable business practices."

Roger Boulton, Stephen Sinclair Scott Professor of Enology and chemical Engineering, Department of Viticulture and Enology, University of California recognizes the need for the wine industry to improve business practices in regard to sustainability. "One of the future challenges for the management of all wine businesses is the reduction of their carbon footprint. This number is made up of several contributions and a series of changes will need to be made probably requiring ongoing adaptation. There are questions of the ownership of these emissions - such as bottles and packaging - anything a wine company can do to reduce their carbon footprint will probably be viewed positively by consumers and the larger community. Any wine delivered to market that has resulted in one-third less carbon emissions is a significant and consequential improvement in business practices."

"We've been watching the industry as it adopts innovative packaging, e.g., Stelvin caps. Now, the logical progression is for the package itself used for everyday drinking. The Underdog Wine group has increasingly staked a claim on the premium 3L segment; the unique shape of Underdog's new package will further make their wines stand out from the crowd, "stated Eileen Fredrikson, Gomberg, Fredrikson & Associates.

Underdog Wine Merchants are champions of "hidden treasure" or under-appreciated wines-ones that are truly unique, of great value and the true "underdogs" of the wine world. For information about Underdog Wine Merchants, visit www.underdogwinemerchants.com.

For more information, visit www.OctavinHomeWineBar.com.

http://ww1.prweb.com/prfiles/2010/03/22/3766574/0_OctavinLogo.png

SOURCE Underdog Wine Merchants

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.underdogwinemerchants.com/
http://www.octavinhomewinebar.com/

In partnership with Napa Smith Brewery, Pelican Brands today confirmed its appointment as the exclusive brand manager for Napa Smith's craft beer portfolio in the U.S. market. Napa Smith Brewery is Napa's pre-eminent craft beer brewery and is dedicated to maintaining the traditions of the region for producing the highest quality goods. Napa Smith is proud to feature the beers of America's most experienced craft brewer - Don Barkley. Don started making craft beer in 1978 at New Albion Brewery, America's first new brewery since Prohibition. He went on to help found Mendocino Brewing Company, where he became an icon in the industry creating such legendary beers as Red Tail Ale and Eye of the Hawk. Pelican Brands is a brand management company dedicated to nurturing and building brands in the global beverage industry.

This deal follows Pelican Brands' previous announcement of its exclusive U.S. rights to the brand management of Singha beer, Thailand's no.1 export beer. Pelican currently manages the Singha business through distribution in all 50 U.S. states.

"The appointment of Pelican Brands represents a very important step for the development of Napa Smith as we expand beyond California. We expect Pelican Brands to add invaluable insight and experience to the development and implementation of our brand strategy in the coming years," said Greg Cutuli, Owner of Napa Smith Brewery. "We have been impressed by Pelican Brands on all fronts, and we are delighted to have been able to attract such a strong partner."

J. Smoke Wallin, Chairman of Pelican Brands, said, "We have been searching for the right brand partners as we seek to expand the Pelican Brands portfolio. We look for a distinct brand proposition, extraordinary product quality and people we want to do business with for the long term. In Napa Smith Brewery we believe we have found just such a partner. The bottom line is this - Napa Smith brews awesome beer!"

"The addition of Napa Smith to our portfolio is a wonderful opportunity for Pelican," said Mark Smith, Pelican Brands Vice President of Marketing, a marketing veteran of the global beer industry. "The beer is great and is backed up by fantastic branding and a very cool story: we know that beer lovers across the country will be engaged and keen to get their hands on a beer from the home of artisan beverage making in the U.S."

Pelican Brands is dedicated to taking full advantage of the opportunities in the marketplace for each brand they represent. Pelican provides its brands with the marketing support and senior level attention necessary to enhance each brand's market position, leverages their industry relationships to expand distribution, and successfully launches line extensions and new products.

"Napa Smith has already proven itself with the Northern California consumer. Our newest offering is the exciting Napa Smith Organic IPA that is taking the market by storm. We are pleased to be able to team up with the Pelican team to bring our brand to an ever larger base of beer lovers," said Steve Morgan, President of Napa Smith.

"We are excited by the opportunity that Napa Smith presents," said Don C. Hammond, President of Pelican Brands. "The craft beer segment is extremely competitive but continues to demonstrate significant growth. I know that our partners nationwide, be they distributors or retailers, will be just as enthused as we are when they learn the Napa Smith story." Mr. Hammond, who has extensive experience running major beer wholesalers, continued, "Our task is to nurture this brand as we expand its footprint. We will focus on developing value through achieving long term growth and we will do this with some of the finest distribution partners in the US beer business."

About Napa Smith Brewery

Napa Smith Brewery is located at the southern gateway to Napa Valley, just south of the town of Napa. Napa Valley is internationally known as a destination for those individuals who seek the best that life has to offer. Napa Smith is proud to contribute to the Napa tradition of hard work, craftsmanship, and artistry with the introduction of its unique family of beers. It creates its beers using proprietary recipes developed by Master Brewer Don Barkley - a veteran of 30+ years in the craft brewing industry. www.napasmithbrewery.com

About Pelican Brands

Pelican Brands was formed to nurture and build brands in the global beverage alcohol space. Pelican Brands' team and partners have extensive experience in the global beverage and consumer packaged goods industries. Pelican Brands is headquartered in Carmel, IN with offices in the United Kingdom with a sales team covering the U.S. market. Pelican's beer brands include Thailand's #1 export, Singha Beer www.singhabeer.com and Napa, CA's award winning craft beers from Napa Smith Brewery. www.pelican-brands.com

This press release was issued through 24-7PressRelease.com.  For further information, visit http://www.24-7pressrelease.com.

SOURCE Pelican Brands

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.pelican-brands.com
http://www.napasmithbrewery.com/

Black Box Wines (www.blackboxwines.com), America's first premium and now best-selling 3L box wine, is excited to announce the addition of the 2008 Mendoza Argentina Malbec to its portfolio.  Malbec has seen tremendous growth in the U.S. and this new offering continues the Black Box mission of bringing consumers the best quality wines from leading appellations at affordable prices.  The wine is available nationwide for a suggested retail price of $24.99.

Argentina is now the fifth leading producer of imported wine, with Malbec being one of its best-known varietals claiming a 61 percent dollar share (Source: IRI Scan Data, Total U.S. Food & Drug, ending Feb. 21, 2010).  Over the past year, Malbec wines have won the enthusiasm of many consumers who are seeking opportunities to sample and purchase these delicious wines.  According to customer insights provided by dunnhumby, 87 percent more households are purchasing Malbec wines compared to a year ago, with both new and existing Malbec consumers spending and visiting more per household.

Premium 3L box wines continue to transform the table wine business as consumers look for quality wines at affordable prices.  According to IRI Scan Data, the total premium 3L box wine category saw 22 percent growth in 2010, measured by dollar sales, with Black Box outpacing the category with growth at 30 percent during the same period. (Source: IRI Scan data, Total U.S. Food & Drug, ending Feb 21, 2010)

"As the category leader, Black Box continually seeks out opportunities to bring consumers high quality, exciting wines," said Kim Moore, Black Box Marketing Director.  "We have always been about putting the best wine in the box and our new Malbec is another example of a wine from a premier growing region with the quality that our customers have come to expect at half the price of bottled wine."

Malbec has discovered its true home in Argentina and has become the country's undisputed contribution to the great wines of the world.  The fruit is sourced from Mendoza, located at the foothills of the Andes Mountains, where it thrives in the high altitudes and soils rich from mineral deposits that flow from glaciers in the Andes.  Such dramatic conditions result in bold, beautiful wines with lots of intense, supple fruit.  Possessing a deep purple color with a crimson hue, Black Box Malbec is a medium bodied wine with an inviting bouquet of lilac and cherry blossom.  A hint of tobacco complements the earthy blueberry and chocolate flavors.  

Black Box Wines repeatedly earn praise from both consumers and wine experts. The wines have earned 15 Gold medals over the years at national wine competitions, and garnered 14 "Best Buy" designations from Wine Enthusiast magazine since 2004. Recently, Black Box Wines was also awarded the IRI "Momentum" brand award.  Each box of wine is the equivalent of four 750ml bottles and stays fresh for four weeks after opening, allowing wine drinkers to enjoy a glass of wine anytime without worrying about waste.

Black Box led the premium 3L box wine revolution in 2003 by introducing a Napa Valley Chardonnay to much acclaim.  Today, the Black Box portfolio includes Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Malbec, all sourced from a variety of the world's premier appellations including Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Central Coast, California, New Zealand and now Argentina.  Most wines have a suggested retail price of $24.99 (or the equivalent of $6.25 per bottle).  Black Box Wines are distributed in the U.S. by Constellation Wines U.S.

About Black Box Wines

Black Box Wines produces a variety of high-quality, premium 3L box wines from some of the world's leading appellations. The philosophy at Black Box is to seek the best value in wine, regardless of region, in order to provide the best possible quality and price to our customers. These food-friendly wines are meant to be consumed right away and stay fresh for four weeks after opening. www.blackboxwines.com

About Constellation Wine U.S.

Constellation Wines U.S. (CWUS) is the largest wine company in the U.S. based upon sales dollar value.  The portfolio includes such brands as Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi, Clos du Bois, Robert Mondavi Private Selection, Blackstone, Ravenswood, Robert Mondavi Winery, Simi, Estancia, Wild Horse, Arbor Mist and Paul Masson Grande Amber Brandy. CWUS and Vincor Canada comprise Constellation Wines North America, a division of Constellation Brands, Inc., a leading international producer and marketer of beverage alcohol in the wine, spirits and imported beer categories.  

SOURCE Black Box Wines

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.blackboxwines.com/

The Sustainability In Practice certification program of the Central Coast Vineyard Team has been awarded an IPM Innovators award by the state of California Department of Pesticide Regulation, the second time the Central Coast Vineyard Team has been honored by California DPR.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100322/DC73940)

The annual awards recognize diverse groups of businesses and organizations who lead by example in providing innovative solutions for integrated pest management strategies controlling insects, weeds, rodents and other pests with a combination of natural and preventive measures less toxic than traditional treatments.

The Central Coast Vineyard Team was first honored in 1997 for developing the Positive Points Systems to evaluate IPM strategies in vineyards.  This new award honors the Sustainability in Practice (SIP™) Certification program that requires growers to use a variety of practices that protect air and water quality, food safety and worker health. Since SIP's 2008 implementation, certified acreage has increased from 3,700 acres to more than 11,000 acres. Today, more than 50,000 certified cases of wine carry the SIP™ seal on wine bottle labels to help consumers identify sustainable wines, with new winery participants added in every vintage.

Joining SIP™ in receiving this year's awards were a diverse group of businesses and organizations, including the city of San Jose.   "From vacuuming cockroaches infesting a cafe to building bird and bat houses to attract natural predators that eat insects and rodents in vineyards and parks, this year's honorees exemplify pest control strategies," DPR Director Mary-Ann Warmerdam said. "IPM is more protective of public health and safer for the environment whether you have a pest problem in a home or office building, agricultural fields, garden or park."

Earlier this year the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency awarded the Central Coast Vineyard Team with the agency's Sustained Excellence in Integrated Pest Management Award for its continued efforts in pest management.

While SIP™ is an effort by the Central Coast Vineyard Team, the certification program is available for any vineyard in California.  To learn more, visit www.vineyardteam.org.

One of five departments and boards within the California Environmental Protection Agency, DPR regulates the registration, sale and use of pesticides to protect people and the environment. For more information about DPR and previous IPM Innovators, see www.cdpr.ca.gov.

About SIP™ Certified

The Sustainability in Practice SIP™ Certification program provides a way for vineyards statewide to verify their attention to integrated farming practices through a commitment to environmental stewardship, equitable treatment of employees and economic viability. Developed by the Central Coast Vineyard Team, a non-profit dedicated to sustainable winegrowing since 1994, this program represents one extension of the group's many innovative programs. To learn more about SIP™, please visit the website www.sipthegoodlife.org.  Become a Facebook fan at Facebook/sipthegoodlife and follow on Twitter @sipthegoodlife.

SOURCE Central Coast Vineyard Team

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http://www.vineyardteam.org

Drinks Americas Holdings, Ltd. (OTC Bulletin Board: DKAM) a leading owner, developer and marketer of premium beverages associated with renowned icons announced results for the fiscal third quarter ended January 31, 2010.

In the third quarter, the Company shipped and sold approximately $397,000 in new product. As previously reported, due to working capital constraints, the Company's second fiscal quarter ended October 31, 2009 generated only $15,000 in shipments and resulting revenue.  Revenue exceeded the Company's previous forecast.

"We believe that our third quarter results reflect the improvements in operations that we have implemented over the past six months," said J. Patrick Kenny, the Company's Chairman and CEO. "We have stabilized our operations, allowing us to again focus on growing revenue through both existing and new distribution channels. In addition, we have strengthened our balance sheet through the reduction of payables and operating costs, which should allow us to become profitable as Mexcor increases distribution of our products."

The Company reduced Selling, General and Administrative expenses by 62% in the third fiscal quarter compared to the same quarter of the prior fiscal year.  Selling, General and Administrative expenses this fiscal third quarter versus the second fiscal quarter declined $956,000 or 60%.  As a result of the reconfiguration of the Company's business model, Drinks' annual overhead will continue to be reduced from an historical run rate of approximately more than $4.8 million annually to approximately $1.2 million annually.

As a result of various negotiations, the Company has reduced its third quarter payables and short-term debt by $383,000 from last fiscal quarter and additionally has paid down $200,000 of its long-term debt.

The Company recently announced a venture with Mexcor International Wine and Spirits to accelerate the Company's growth. The positive progress of this venture will be reviewed and updated in an upcoming shareholder letter from the CEO in the next several weeks.  

About Drinks Americas

Drinks Americas develops, owns, markets, and nationally distributes alcoholic and non-alcoholic premium beverages associated with renowned icon celebrities, including Trump Super Premium Vodka and Willie Nelson's Old Whiskey River Bourbon. The Company also has a partnership with Universal Music's Interscope, Geffen, A&M Records to jointly develop and launch beverage products. Other products owned by Drinks Americas include Olifant Vodka, Aguila Tequila and Rheingold Beer. The Company has recently developed and assisted in the launch of Kid Rock's American Badass Beer selling in Michigan.

For further information, please visit our new website at www.drinksamericas.com.

Safe Harbor

Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters set forth in this release, including the description of the company and its product offerings, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provision of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially, including the historical volatility and low trading volume of our stock, the risk and uncertainties inherent in the early stages of growth companies, the company's need to raise substantial additional capital to proceed with its business, risks associated with competitors, and other risks detailed from time to time in the company's most recent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof. The company disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

Contacts:




Charles Davidson


Drinks Americas, Inc.


203-762-7000




Dan Schustack


CEOcast, Inc.


212-732-4300




Mirador Consulting


561-989-3600




SOURCE Drinks Americas Holdings, Ltd.

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.drinksamericas.com

Carlsberg, the world-renowned brewing group, and IBM ( IBM) today announced an extended agreement under which IBM will continue to deliver information technology (IT) services across 10 Carlsberg subsidiaries in Europe.  IBM will build a new SAP infrastructure for Carlsberg, leveraging the advantages of IBM POWER7 hardware, XIV storage and IBM System x servers.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090416/IBMLOGO )

The agreement is designed to support Carlsberg in further centralizing IT operations and services delivery, and can scale to include additional Carlsberg subsidiaries based on market demand.

The contract was signed in March 2010 and extends the original agreement signed in 2005, until the end of 2016.

Media Contacts

Carsten Groenning

Media Relations Manager, IBM Denmark

+ 45 2880 3516

cgr@dk.ibm.com


Tara Sucato

Media Relations, IBM U.S.

+ 917-472-3701

tjsucato@us.ibm.com



SOURCE IBM

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.ibm.com

Black Box Wines (www.blackboxwines.com), America's first premium and now best-selling 3L box wine, is excited to announce the addition of the 2008 Mendoza Argentina Malbec to its portfolio.  Malbec has seen tremendous growth in the U.S. and this new offering continues the Black Box mission of bringing consumers the best quality wines from leading appellations at affordable prices.  The wine is available nationwide for a suggested retail price of $24.99.

Argentina is now the fifth leading producer of imported wine, with Malbec being one of its best-known varietals claiming a 61 percent dollar share (Source: IRI Scan Data, Total U.S. Food & Drug, ending Feb. 21, 2010).  Over the past year, Malbec wines have won the enthusiasm of many consumers who are seeking opportunities to sample and purchase these delicious wines.  According to customer insights provided by dunnhumby, 87 percent more households are purchasing Malbec wines compared to a year ago, with both new and existing Malbec consumers spending and visiting more per household.

Premium 3L box wines continue to transform the table wine business as consumers look for quality wines at affordable prices.  According to IRI Scan Data, the total premium 3L box wine category saw 22 percent growth in 2010, measured by dollar sales, with Black Box outpacing the category with growth at 30 percent during the same period. (Source: IRI Scan data, Total U.S. Food & Drug, ending Feb 21, 2010)

"As the category leader, Black Box continually seeks out opportunities to bring consumers high quality, exciting wines," said Kim Moore, Black Box Marketing Director.  "We have always been about putting the best wine in the box and our new Malbec is another example of a wine from a premier growing region with the quality that our customers have come to expect at half the price of bottled wine."

Malbec has discovered its true home in Argentina and has become the country's undisputed contribution to the great wines of the world.  The fruit is sourced from Mendoza, located at the foothills of the Andes Mountains, where it thrives in the high altitudes and soils rich from mineral deposits that flow from glaciers in the Andes.  Such dramatic conditions result in bold, beautiful wines with lots of intense, supple fruit.  Possessing a deep purple color with a crimson hue, Black Box Malbec is a medium bodied wine with an inviting bouquet of lilac and cherry blossom.  A hint of tobacco complements the earthy blueberry and chocolate flavors.  

Black Box Wines repeatedly earn praise from both consumers and wine experts. The wines have earned 15 Gold medals over the years at national wine competitions, and garnered 14 "Best Buy" designations from Wine Enthusiast magazine since 2004. Recently, Black Box Wines was also awarded the IRI "Momentum" brand award.  Each box of wine is the equivalent of four 750ml bottles and stays fresh for four weeks after opening, allowing wine drinkers to enjoy a glass of wine anytime without worrying about waste.

Black Box led the premium 3L box wine revolution in 2003 by introducing a Napa Valley Chardonnay to much acclaim.  Today, the Black Box portfolio includes Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Malbec, all sourced from a variety of the world's premier appellations including Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Central Coast, California, New Zealand and now Argentina.  Most wines have a suggested retail price of $24.99 (or the equivalent of $6.25 per bottle).  Black Box Wines are distributed in the U.S. by Constellation Wines U.S.

About Black Box Wines

Black Box Wines produces a variety of high-quality, premium 3L box wines from some of the world's leading appellations. The philosophy at Black Box is to seek the best value in wine, regardless of region, in order to provide the best possible quality and price to our customers. These food-friendly wines are meant to be consumed right away and stay fresh for four weeks after opening. www.blackboxwines.com

About Constellation Wine U.S.

Constellation Wines U.S. (CWUS) is the largest wine company in the U.S. based upon sales dollar value.  The portfolio includes such brands as Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi, Clos du Bois, Robert Mondavi Private Selection, Blackstone, Ravenswood, Robert Mondavi Winery, Simi, Estancia, Wild Horse, Arbor Mist and Paul Masson Grande Amber Brandy. CWUS and Vincor Canada comprise Constellation Wines North America, a division of Constellation Brands, Inc., a leading international producer and marketer of beverage alcohol in the wine, spirits and imported beer categories.  

SOURCE Black Box Wines

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.blackboxwines.com/

Drinks Americas Holdings, Ltd. (OTC Bulletin Board: DKAM) a leading owner, developer and marketer of premium beverages associated with renowned icons announced results for the fiscal third quarter ended January 31, 2010.

In the third quarter, the Company shipped and sold approximately $397,000 in new product. As previously reported, due to working capital constraints, the Company's second fiscal quarter ended October 31, 2009 generated only $15,000 in shipments and resulting revenue.  Revenue exceeded the Company's previous forecast.

"We believe that our third quarter results reflect the improvements in operations that we have implemented over the past six months," said J. Patrick Kenny, the Company's Chairman and CEO. "We have stabilized our operations, allowing us to again focus on growing revenue through both existing and new distribution channels. In addition, we have strengthened our balance sheet through the reduction of payables and operating costs, which should allow us to become profitable as Mexcor increases distribution of our products."

The Company reduced Selling, General and Administrative expenses by 62% in the third fiscal quarter compared to the same quarter of the prior fiscal year.  Selling, General and Administrative expenses this fiscal third quarter versus the second fiscal quarter declined $956,000 or 60%.  As a result of the reconfiguration of the Company's business model, Drinks' annual overhead will continue to be reduced from an historical run rate of approximately more than $4.8 million annually to approximately $1.2 million annually.

As a result of various negotiations, the Company has reduced its third quarter payables and short-term debt by $383,000 from last fiscal quarter and additionally has paid down $200,000 of its long-term debt.

The Company recently announced a venture with Mexcor International Wine and Spirits to accelerate the Company's growth. The positive progress of this venture will be reviewed and updated in an upcoming shareholder letter from the CEO in the next several weeks.  

About Drinks Americas

Drinks Americas develops, owns, markets, and nationally distributes alcoholic and non-alcoholic premium beverages associated with renowned icon celebrities, including Trump Super Premium Vodka and Willie Nelson's Old Whiskey River Bourbon. The Company also has a partnership with Universal Music's Interscope, Geffen, A&M Records to jointly develop and launch beverage products. Other products owned by Drinks Americas include Olifant Vodka, Aguila Tequila and Rheingold Beer. The Company has recently developed and assisted in the launch of Kid Rock's American Badass Beer selling in Michigan.

For further information, please visit our new website at www.drinksamericas.com.

Safe Harbor

Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters set forth in this release, including the description of the company and its product offerings, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provision of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially, including the historical volatility and low trading volume of our stock, the risk and uncertainties inherent in the early stages of growth companies, the company's need to raise substantial additional capital to proceed with its business, risks associated with competitors, and other risks detailed from time to time in the company's most recent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof. The company disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

Contacts:




Charles Davidson


Drinks Americas, Inc.


203-762-7000




Dan Schustack


CEOcast, Inc.


212-732-4300




Mirador Consulting


561-989-3600




SOURCE Drinks Americas Holdings, Ltd.

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.drinksamericas.com

Constellation Wines U.S. and Greenlight Media & Marketing, LLC today announced the return of Pairings: Food + Wine + Music - a media brand dedicated to creating fine living products, services and experiences. Bringing together top chefs, musicians and winemakers, each experience will pair menus, song lists and wine from participating artists, and content from past and future events can be seen at www.pairings.com.

To launch Pairings: Food + Wine + Music last Fall, exclusive events were hosted for American Express® Cardmembers, beginning at Robert Mondavi Winery in Oakville, Napa Valley, where renowned artist Dave Matthews joined New Orleans chef John Besh and Winemaker Genevieve Jannsens. The next event featured superstar chef and restaurateur Tom Colicchio and music sensation John Legend, along with Simi winemaker Susan Lueker, for an experience at Colicchio's Craftsteak restaurant in New York City.

The inspiration of Greenlight Media & Marketing CEO, Dominic Sandifer, Pairings: Food + Wine + Music presents an interactive new way of engaging consumers and exposing them to new food, wine and music experiences. "Pairings is an experiential brand that will connect people to great new food, wine and music through both live and digital experiences, which are the hallmark of social networking. We are thrilled to be collaborating with Constellation Wines U.S. to deliver this unique program to consumers in a variety of media formats, as well as through specialty products and services."

"This is a huge step forward as we think about how consumers interact with wine," said Constellation Wines U.S. Chief Marketing Officer, Chris Fehrnstrom.  "We have a portfolio of distinctive brands from the world's finest wine regions, and to bring them to life in such an interactive environment is an exciting step for us.  Whether it's attending an exclusive concert at one of our vineyards, creating a playlist at home to pair with your next dinner party, or enjoying a glass of wine while streaming your favorite artist on-line, Pairings offers a dedicated resource to wine, food, and music in one, turn-key package."

The artistic collaborations between these food, wine and music masters, as well as unique behind-the-scenes insights, are now featured at www.pairings.com.

Web site content also includes:

  • Channels highlighting premiere Pairings events with:
    • exclusive digital videos
    • exclusive event photos on Flikr stream
  • Food page featuring chef bio, menus, recipes and images, merchandise links
  • Wine page featuring winemaker/winery bio, event wine list, photos, and relevant links 
  • Music page featuring musician bio, playlist, set list, photos, links to purchase music and merchandise
  • Live performances by the artists, a peek into the kitchen of each chef, and a taste of the winemaker's skill in each wine selected for these special events.

The 2010 Pairings event schedule is currently under development and experiences featuring new artists, chefs and locations/wineries will be announced soon. For more information, please visit www.pairings.com.

About Constellation Wines U.S.

Constellation Wines U.S. is a division of Constellation Brands Inc., the world's leading wine company that achieves success through an unmatched knowledge of wine consumers paired with storied brands that suit varied lives and tastes. With a broad portfolio of widely admired premium products across the wine and spirits categories, Constellation's brand portfolio includes Robert Mondavi, Clos du Bois, Blackstone, Estancia, Franciscan Estate, Mount Veeder, Ravenswood, Jackson-Triggs, Kim Crawford, Simi and SVEDKA Vodka.

About Greenlight Media & Marketing LLC

Formed in January of 2008 by music industry and brand marketing leaders Coran Capshaw, Dominic Sandifer and Bruce Flohr, Greenlight Media & Marketing, LLC creates original music driven content and intellectual properties, as well as provides music and lifestyle marketing strategy and production for Fortune 500 companies.  Greenlight is the model for a modern day music marketing and content company, supporting and developing the union between artists, music and brands in popular culture through highly targeted media programs. Greenlight's clients and partners include Gillette, Whole Foods, Converse, Target, Verizon, American Express, and Constellation Brands.  Its original developed and owned media properties include "Pairings: Food, Wine, Music"; "Music and Words with Tom Ressa" ( Spin); and "Get in the Van." Greenlight also works closely with Coran Capshaw's other companies on overall brand development, programming and alignment for his RedLight Management artist roster including Dave Matthews Band, Tim McGraw, Good Charlotte, Alanis Morrisette, Ben Harper, etc, as well as ATO/TBD Records and Starr Hill Present's music festival partnerships inclusive of Bonnaroo, Outside Lands, etc.

About American Express

American Express Company is a leading global payments and travel company founded in 1850. For more information, visit www.americanexpress.com.

SOURCE Constellation Wines U.S.; Greenlight Media & Marketing

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.pairings.com

A new collection of artisan wines in an innovative attractive new package was announced today by Adam Richardson, Director of International Winemaking for Underdog Wine Merchants. The international wine collection is being launched with six brands and ten items packaged in a new exciting premium 3L wine cask format, the Octavin Home Wine Bar ™.

(Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100323/SF75220-a)

(Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100323/SF75220-b)

"This is the first time a collection of super-premium, artisan wines, representing some of the world's best wine regions, has ever been offered in a premium wine cask format," notes Adam. "The wines are sourced from preeminent and emerging wine growing regions including Monterey County; California Central Coast; Marlborough, New Zealand; Spain and Hungary. I am very proud of these wines; each has been crafted by an artisan winemaker to be true to their varietal character, country of origin and unique terroir. Naturally, we start with the best grapes but then, depending on the wine, we will use oak barrel aging, or in the case of our 'racy' whites, barrel and temperature-controlled fermentation. You just do not see this kind of artisan approach to winemaking at this price point, and all of us at Underdog Wine Merchants are very pleased to be able to offer consumers distinctive wines at a very affordable price."

Each Octavin Home Wine Bar holds 20 five-ounce glasses and keeps the wine fresh for up to six weeks after opening, so it can be easily enjoyed in under a month in adult households with daily wine drinkers. "It truly delivers artisan wine, a glass at a time," says Richardson.

The wines in the new artisan collection are Monthaven Central Coast Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot; Silver Birch New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc; Boho Vineyards California Old Vine Zinfandel; Pinot Evil Pinot Noir and Pinot Grigio; Big House Red and White; and Seven, produced from seven Spanish red varietals. Wines are distributed nationally with a SRP of $22-24.

The first wine to be released in the new Octavin Home Wine Bar is Monthaven Winery Monterey County Central Coast Chardonnay. Named for its home in Monterey County, California, this wine benefits from one of the world's longest growing seasons, resulting in a "distinctive full-bodied wine with balanced acidity," says Monthaven Winery winemaker Jeff Yamamoto, who works closely with Adam Richardson. " Monthaven Chardonnay is made in California's largest small-lot winery," notes Jeff. "This allows us to keep grapes from different micro-climates and vineyard blocks separate. The wine is carefully crafted in small lots and then barrel-aged. Adam and I selected American Oak for our Monthaven Chardonnay to assure that the fruit flavors shine through, accented by balanced oak notes and agreeable tannins."

Octavin Home Wine Bar bridges the wine world's interests in value, environmental positives and creative packaging. "By choosing an Octavin Home Wine Bar instead of glass bottles, consumers reduce packaging waste by 92% and carbon emissions by 55%; and it offers great value by providing the equivalent of four bottles of wine for the price of three," says Richardson. "This allows us to invest in making great wines rather than traditional expensive packaging. By eliminating glass bottle expense, we reduce packaging and shipping cost, and then pass the savings along to customers. These are wines without compromise, the same wines that would go into a bottle, but with the stylish Octavin Home Wine Bar, we can deliver these wines at an amazing price and with sustainable business practices."

Roger Boulton, Stephen Sinclair Scott Professor of Enology and chemical Engineering, Department of Viticulture and Enology, University of California recognizes the need for the wine industry to improve business practices in regard to sustainability. "One of the future challenges for the management of all wine businesses is the reduction of their carbon footprint. This number is made up of several contributions and a series of changes will need to be made probably requiring ongoing adaptation. There are questions of the ownership of these emissions - such as bottles and packaging - anything a wine company can do to reduce their carbon footprint will probably be viewed positively by consumers and the larger community. Any wine delivered to market that has resulted in one-third less carbon emissions is a significant and consequential improvement in business practices."

"We've been watching the industry as it adopts innovative packaging, e.g., Stelvin caps. Now, the logical progression is for the package itself used for everyday drinking. The Underdog Wine group has increasingly staked a claim on the premium 3L segment; the unique shape of Underdog's new package will further make their wines stand out from the crowd, "stated Eileen Fredrikson, Gomberg, Fredrikson & Associates.

Underdog Wine Merchants are champions of "hidden treasure" or under-appreciated wines-ones that are truly unique, of great value and the true "underdogs" of the wine world. For information about Underdog Wine Merchants, visit www.underdogwinemerchants.com.

For more information, visit www.OctavinHomeWineBar.com.

http://ww1.prweb.com/prfiles/2010/03/22/3766574/0_OctavinLogo.png

SOURCE Underdog Wine Merchants

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.underdogwinemerchants.com/
http://www.octavinhomewinebar.com/

According to the Beverage Information Group's recently released Handbook Advance 2010, the bleak economy influenced the success of each segment of the beverage alcohol business in 2009.  Distilled spirits and wine experienced positive results, albeit at a much slower rate than in the past, while beer saw unprecedented declines.

Last year, the economy reversed the previous "trading up" trend in the spirits category and consumers changed their drinking occasions with a shift to off-premise consumption.  Distilled spirits grew 1.7% in 2009 to 188.7 million cases, marking the 12th consecutive year of positive results for the category. However, the spirits market's expansion slowed from the 3.2% gain posted in 2007 and 2.1% in 2008.

The U.S. wine market grew for the second consecutive year, with more domestic consumption and a boost from the large millennial generations' affinity for wine.  Wine experienced a slight slowdown in its 2009 growth rate. Wine consumption increased 0.8%, only 0.1% less than its 2008 gain, and finished the year at 297.1 million 9-liter cases.

"Wine sales' continued growth can be attributed to consumers entertaining at home more, and to the array of products at lower price points," says Eric Schmidt, manager of information services for the Beverage Information Group, Norwalk, Conn.  

Conversely, the beer industry experienced a sharper decline in consumption than the other two segments.  Total beer consumption declined 1.4% in 2009 to 2.9 billion cases.  Imported beer has struggled, yet the craft beer segment continues to enjoy positive growth despite its higher prices.  There was a sharp drop in volume among mainstream imported beers, as well as a trading down shift that led to a downturn among large volume domestic brands.

The Handbook Advance 2010 is $895; handbook with CD is $1,065. Shipping and handling is $10 for U.S. and Canadian orders, $20 for international orders. The publications can be purchased at www.beveragehandbooks.com or by calling Cynthia Porter at (630) 762-8709.

About the Beverage Information Group

The Beverage Information Group, a division of M2MEDIA360, serves all segments of the beverage alcohol industry through Cheers, Beverage Dynamics and StateWays magazines, Handbooks, Beverage Research and www.bevinfogroup.com.

Contacts:

The Beverage Information Group

Eric Schmidt, manager of information services

203-855-8499

eschmidt@m2media360.com


Cynthia Porter, Sales

630-762-8709

cporter@m2media360.com



SOURCE Beverage Information Group

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.bevinfogroup.com

Today Campari inaugurates its Gallery, a dynamic, multimedia and interactive place that traces the life of the brand through modern and contemporary art from 1860 to the present day, in its 150th anniversary year. Campari has collected pieces belonging to many different artists, such as Cappiello, Munari, and Depero, to whom Campari dedicated a temporary exhibit.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100318/382767 )

Campari was created by the talented Gaspare Campari, master drink maker, who gave birth to a brand that would later go on to be enjoyed around the world.

"We are proud to be able to open a gallery that will allow visitors to fully experience the essence of our brand," explains Bob Kunze-Concewitz, CEO Gruppo Campari. "Visitors will gain a unique experience of the worlds of art, communication and photography that over the years have secured the uniqueness and appreciation of our brand worldwide. The 150th anniversary is for us an inspiration to keep on growing and experiencing different creative and artistic forms, always following the red passion, the fundamental element of our daily commitment."

As well as opening the Galleria, Campari is launching the Campari Art Label project. Three artists - avaf, Tobias Rehberger and Vanessa Beecroft - starting from the essence of the colour red and from the achievements of this internationally famous aperitif, created three different art works to create exclusive and limited edition bottles that describes the various facets of the universe of Campari.

Gruppo Campari is today a major player in the global branded beverage industry, with a portfolio of over 40 premium and super premium brands marketed and distributed in more than 190 countries. The Group, which employs over 2,000 people, has an extensive portfolio that spans three business segments: spirits, wines and soft drinks. Gruppo Campari is the sixth-biggest player worldwide in the branded spirits category. It boasts a leading position in Italy and Brazil and has a strong presence in the US and continental Europe. The shares of the parent company, Davide Campari-Milano, are listed on the Italian Stock Exchange since July 2001.

    Find your local PR contact:
http://www.camparigroup.com/en/press_media/press_contacts/press_contacts.jsp

For further information and images of Galleria Campari visit: http://www.camparigroup.com/en/press_media/image_gallery/galleria_campari.jsp

For further information and images of Campari and its 150th anniversary visit: http://www.camparigroup.com/en/press_media/image_gallery/campari_download.jsp

SOURCE Gruppo Campari

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Wine Enthusiast Magazine has recognized Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar with 64 awards, one for every restaurant open at the time of judging, in their annual America's Best Wine Lists for 2009. Most Fleming's received the Award of Distinction, with 16 locations singled out for the prestigious Award of Unique Distinction. The Wine Enthusiast Restaurant Awards for 2009, published in the February 2010 issue, were granted to the best restaurants in the world for wine. The tenth annual Wine Enthusiast's Wine Star Awards black tie gala was held at the venerable New York Public Library, honoring outstanding industry achievers.

According to Karen Berman of Wine Enthusiast, awards "are based on the quality of the overall wine program. Selection, service, individuality and value are all considered," she adds. The magazine's panel of judges consists of wine experts, connoisseurs, and editors.

"We are thrilled to once again be honored by Wine Enthusiast Magazine," says Fleming's Director of Wine, Marian Jansen op de Haar. "These highly-coveted awards validate our ongoing commitment to providing our guests with the ultimate dining experience."

Fleming's is recognized for its innovative wine program that features the Fleming's 100™ wines-by-the-glass program.  Each year, wines are selected after Jansen and Fleming's wine managers taste thousands of wines. A majority of these selections will appear on each Fleming's list throughout the country.  Additional wines are selected at each location to reflect local regional tastes.  

"The Fleming's 100 is an honor roll of excellence from around the world.  We look for balanced wines that complement our food, have a sense of place and are a good value," says Jansen op de Haar.

This year's collection of 100 wines by the glass acknowledges the pleasure of discovering a great wine at a great value and features 30 wines available for $10 a glass or less. The 16 restaurants recognized with Award of Unique Distinction are:  Newport Beach and Downtown LA (LA Live), CA; Summerlin, NV; Scottsdale and Chandler, AZ;  Salt Lake City UT; Tulsa, OK; Houston-North Oaks, TX;  Akron and Cleveland, OH; Tampa and Sandestin, FL; Raleigh, NC;  Tysons Corner, VA; Marlton, NJ; and W. Hartford, CT.

Fleming's Wine Flights

Wine flights, served in Fleming's stylish "wine vine," give guests the opportunity to sample a trio of two ounce tastes.  Comparing wines side-by-side is an excellent way for diners to educate their palates, experience a wide array of flavors, and discover new favorites.  Fleming's features a daily white, red and a reserve Flight of the Night.  A friendly, knowledgeable staff is available to assist guests with creating their own flight.

About Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar

The nationally acclaimed Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar offers the best in steakhouse dining – prime meats and chops, fresh fish and poultry, generous salads and side orders—with a wine list that features over 100 wines served by the glass.  Fleming's was launched in Newport Beach, California in 1998 by successful restaurant industry veterans Paul Fleming and Bill Allen.

For more information about Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar and the Fleming's 100, please visit FlemingsSteakhouse.com or m.flemings100.com from your mobile device.

SOURCE Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.flemingssteakhouse.com

According to the Beverage Information Group's recently released Handbook Advance 2010, the bleak economy influenced the success of each segment of the beverage alcohol business in 2009.  Distilled spirits and wine experienced positive results, albeit at a much slower rate than in the past, while beer saw unprecedented declines.

Last year, the economy reversed the previous "trading up" trend in the spirits category and consumers changed their drinking occasions with a shift to off-premise consumption.  Distilled spirits grew 1.7% in 2009 to 188.7 million cases, marking the 12th consecutive year of positive results for the category. However, the spirits market's expansion slowed from the 3.2% gain posted in 2007 and 2.1% in 2008.

The U.S. wine market grew for the second consecutive year, with more domestic consumption and a boost from the large millennial generations' affinity for wine.  Wine experienced a slight slowdown in its 2009 growth rate. Wine consumption increased 0.8%, only 0.1% less than its 2008 gain, and finished the year at 297.1 million 9-liter cases.

"Wine sales' continued growth can be attributed to consumers entertaining at home more, and to the array of products at lower price points," says Eric Schmidt, manager of information services for the Beverage Information Group, Norwalk, Conn.  

Conversely, the beer industry experienced a sharper decline in consumption than the other two segments.  Total beer consumption declined 1.4% in 2009 to 2.9 billion cases.  Imported beer has struggled, yet the craft beer segment continues to enjoy positive growth despite its higher prices.  There was a sharp drop in volume among mainstream imported beers, as well as a trading down shift that led to a downturn among large volume domestic brands.

The Handbook Advance 2010 is $895; handbook with CD is $1,065. Shipping and handling is $10 for U.S. and Canadian orders, $20 for international orders. The publications can be purchased at www.beveragehandbooks.com or by calling Cynthia Porter at (630) 762-8709.

About the Beverage Information Group

The Beverage Information Group, a division of M2MEDIA360, serves all segments of the beverage alcohol industry through Cheers, Beverage Dynamics and StateWays magazines, Handbooks, Beverage Research and www.bevinfogroup.com.

Contacts:

The Beverage Information Group

Eric Schmidt, manager of information services

203-855-8499

eschmidt@m2media360.com


Cynthia Porter, Sales

630-762-8709

cporter@m2media360.com



SOURCE Beverage Information Group

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.bevinfogroup.com

Today Campari inaugurates its Gallery, a dynamic, multimedia and interactive place that traces the life of the brand through modern and contemporary art from 1860 to the present day, in its 150th anniversary year. Campari has collected pieces belonging to many different artists, such as Cappiello, Munari, and Depero, to whom Campari dedicated a temporary exhibit.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100318/382767 )

Campari was created by the talented Gaspare Campari, master drink maker, who gave birth to a brand that would later go on to be enjoyed around the world.

"We are proud to be able to open a gallery that will allow visitors to fully experience the essence of our brand," explains Bob Kunze-Concewitz, CEO Gruppo Campari. "Visitors will gain a unique experience of the worlds of art, communication and photography that over the years have secured the uniqueness and appreciation of our brand worldwide. The 150th anniversary is for us an inspiration to keep on growing and experiencing different creative and artistic forms, always following the red passion, the fundamental element of our daily commitment."

As well as opening the Galleria, Campari is launching the Campari Art Label project. Three artists - avaf, Tobias Rehberger and Vanessa Beecroft - starting from the essence of the colour red and from the achievements of this internationally famous aperitif, created three different art works to create exclusive and limited edition bottles that describes the various facets of the universe of Campari.

Gruppo Campari is today a major player in the global branded beverage industry, with a portfolio of over 40 premium and super premium brands marketed and distributed in more than 190 countries. The Group, which employs over 2,000 people, has an extensive portfolio that spans three business segments: spirits, wines and soft drinks. Gruppo Campari is the sixth-biggest player worldwide in the branded spirits category. It boasts a leading position in Italy and Brazil and has a strong presence in the US and continental Europe. The shares of the parent company, Davide Campari-Milano, are listed on the Italian Stock Exchange since July 2001.

    Find your local PR contact:
http://www.camparigroup.com/en/press_media/press_contacts/press_contacts.jsp

For further information and images of Galleria Campari visit: http://www.camparigroup.com/en/press_media/image_gallery/galleria_campari.jsp

For further information and images of Campari and its 150th anniversary visit: http://www.camparigroup.com/en/press_media/image_gallery/campari_download.jsp

SOURCE Gruppo Campari

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Pennsylvania municipalities received $2.2 million in licensing fees collected on their behalf and approved by the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board during a six-month period that ended Jan. 31.

Under the Liquor Code, fees are collected whenever a liquor license application, renewal or validation is submitted, according to Patrick J. "P.J." Stapleton III, chairman of the Liquor Control Board. Once approved, the money is distributed to the municipality in which the licensee is located to help defray the cost of local law enforcement. Funds are distributed twice a year.

"The $2.2 million recently distributed by the Liquor Control Board went to municipalities in 66 of the 67 counties," Stapleton said, adding that the largest distribution was $1 million to the City of Philadelphia.

"License fees are based on the type of license and the population of the municipality in which it is located," said Jerry W. Waters Sr., director of the Liquor Control Board's Office of Regulatory Affairs, which oversees the regulation of almost 20,000 liquor licensees and permitees statewide, including restaurants, clubs and beer distributors.

To maintain the privilege of selling alcohol, licensees and permitees are required by Pennsylvania's Liquor Code to renew or validate their licenses annually.

Established in 1933, the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board regulates the distribution of beverage alcohol and also operates 620 Wine & Spirits Stores. The Board reported sales of more than $1.8 billion in fiscal 2008-09 and a return of $494.5 million in taxes and profits to the state's General Fund, helping to pay the cost of essential services such as education, health care, infrastructure and public safety.

Media contact: Nick Hays or Francesca Chapman, 717-783-8864.

Editor's note: A list of municipalities receiving fee distributions is available from the Liquor Control Board Press Office at 717-783-8864.

SOURCE Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board

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The Corona Light Wide Open, one of the nation's leading grassroots beach volleyball tours, will bring its popular beach volleyball festival to nine US cities in 2010, opening with a May 15-16 stop at South Beach Park in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.

(Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100317/NY71994-a)

(Logo:   http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100317/NY71994LOGO-b)

Created in part by volleyball legend Karch Kiraly, who will be the Chief Volleyball Officer for the 2010 tour, the Corona Light Wide Open will hit some of the nation's most legendary beaches and popular beach volleyball venues.  The inaugural tour in 2009 drew more than 3,500 beach volleyball players competing in up to 16 different divisions of play.

Following the opener in Ft. Lauderdale, the tour moves to Galveston, Tex. (May 22-23 on Stewart Beach); Siesta Key, Fla. (June 19-20 at Siesta Key Beach) and Huntington Beach, Calif. (June 26-27 at Huntington Beach Pier).  In July, the tour returns to Santa Cruz, Calif. (July 10-11 on Main Street Beach) and on July 31 and August 1, the event will be on North Avenue Beach in Chicago, Ill.

August brings the Corona Light Wide Open to Long Island, N.Y. (Aug. 7-8 at Long Beach) and then makes its first appearance in Colorado, August 14-15 at Carter Park Beach in Breckenridge, Colo.  The tour closes on the east coast with an Aug. 21-22 stop at Point Pleasant Beach in Point Pleasant, N.J.  

The Corona Light Wide Open is the official qualifying tour for the 2010 US Open of Beach Volleyball, a USA Volleyball-sanctioned national championship, which will be played Sept. 17-19 in Manhattan Beach, Calif.

"The Corona Light Wide Open is one of the few beach volleyball events in the world that captures the true essence and vibe of the beach; it's all about playing the sport and living the lifestyle," said three-time Olympic Gold Medalist Karch Kiraly.  "Last year we quickly saw how people wanted a top-shelf, competitive beach volleyball tournament and a package of activities on the beach that allowed them not only to compete for a spot in the US Open, but have some fun and really let loose.   This year, we are taking the Wide Open experience to a much higher level."

Volleyball on the 2010 Corona Light Wide Open will be contested in up to 16 different divisions of play and the number of divisions offered will vary from event to event. Winners in up to eight of the two-person divisions will earn an automatic berth into the 2010 US Open of Beach Volleyball.  All events will feature draws for two-person teams in men's, women's and co-ed divisions.  Among the divisions that may be held at the nine Corona Light Wide Open sites are Men's Open, AA, A, BB, B; Women's Open, AA, A, B; and Co-ed Open, A, B.  

At select sites, draws also may include four-person and/or six-person divisions as part of the overall Corona Light Wide Open weekend.  However, winners of these divisions will not earn an automatic berth in the US Open draw.

Winners in up to eight two-person divisions at each of the Corona Wide Open events will receive a prize package that includes their US Open entry fee and a stipend to cover travel and lodging expenses to Manhattan Beach for the US Open of Beach Volleyball.  The specific divisions receiving the prize package will vary from market to market and details can be found at www.CoronaLightWideOpen.com.   Additionally, players in the men's and women's Open Divisions will compete for a total prize purse of $5,000 at each tour stop.

"There are few brands in this country that are perfectly suited for the beach and Corona is definitely one of those brands," said Daniel Kinghorn, Sr. Manager of National Sponsorships at Crown Imports.  "The Corona Light Wide Open is an excellent example of our desire to stay true to our commitment to the beach and provide both a competitive and fun experience for our consumers."

A big part of the Corona Light Wide Open experience is the collection of non-volleyball beach activities that will be featured at each of the nine stops.  Planned events include an Oakley Fashion Show, a stand-up paddle professional surfing exhibition and demonstration from Surftech and a variety of interactive beach games and activities.  Center Court Mania will reign once again at the 2010 Corona Light Wide Open, with events like the Spalding Bubble Wrap Spike Contest (you have to see it to believe it), Oakley's Serving for Shades and the frantic Wet n' Wild Relay Race all planned for this season.

As Chief Volleyball Officer, Kiraly, who is currently an assistant coach with the US Women's National Team and the winningest player in the history of beach volleyball, will oversee the tournament structure and rules development for the nine-city Corona Light Wide Open.   Additionally, he will play a significant role in the advertising and promotion of the nationwide tour, as well as conduct clinics and participate in exhibition matches and retail appearances in select markets.  

Registration for the 2010 Corona Light Wide Open is now available at www.CoronaLightWideOpen.com.  Online entry is available until approximately 24 hours prior to the start of each of the nine events.  On-site entries will be accepted based on available openings in a specific division.

The Corona Light Wide Open is produced, promoted and managed by Cleveland-based The Elevation Group.  

2010 Corona Light Wide Open Schedule

May 15-16

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (South Beach Park)

May 22-23

Galveston, Tex. (Stewart Beach)

Jun 19-20

Siesta Key, Fla. (Siesta Key Beach)

Jun 26-27

Huntington Beach, Calif. (Huntington Beach Pier)

Jul 10-11

Santa Cruz, Calif. (Main Street Beach)

Jul 31-Aug 1

Chicago, Ill. (North Avenue Beach)

Aug 7-8

Long Island, N.Y. (Long Beach)

Aug 14-15

Breckenridge, Colo. (Carter Park Beach)

Aug 21-22

Point Pleasant, N.J. (Point Pleasant Beach)

Sep 17-19

Manhattan Beach, Calif.  (US Open of Beach Volleyball)



About Crown Imports LLC -- Crown Imports LLC is a joint venture that imports, distributes and markets the Modelo portfolio and other fine beer brands across the entire U.S.  The Modelo portfolio includes Corona Extra, the #1 imported beer in the U.S. and #6 beer overall, Corona Light, Modelo Especial, Negra Modelo and Pacifico beer brands.  Crown also imports the St. Pauli Girl and Tsingtao beer brands in the U.S.  For more information, visit www.crownimportsllc.com.  Crown Imports is a 50-50 joint venture between Grupo Modelo, S.A. de C.V. (MX: GMODELOC), Mexico's leading company in the brewing, distribution and sale of beer, and Constellation Brands, Inc. ( STZ, ASX: CBR), a leading international beverage alcohol producer, importer and marketer.

About Elevation Group of Companies -- The Elevation Group is one of the nation's leading Sports & Music marketing and event production firms.  Founded in 2002 by industry veterans and former senior executives at IMG – Denny Young and Steve Lindecke – Elevation has been named three times (2006, 2007, 2008 & 2009) one of the top event production companies in the United States by Event Marketer magazine.  Elevation works alongside some of the world's most recognizable corporate brands and personalities in the following areas: Concert & Event Production, Television & Video Production, Digital Engagement Marketing, Sponsorship Planning and Sponsorship Marketing.  Elevation offices are located in Cleveland, Charlotte, Detroit and Los Angeles.  For more information, log onto www.elevationgrp.com.

SOURCE Crown Imports LLC

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.CoronaLightWideOpen.com

The Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers has launched a nationally accredited program to train retailers on the best practices to sell alcohol with additional updates on new state laws including a mandatory carding requirement.

Up to 140,000 owners, managers and servers need to be trained in Indiana, according to the association. Public courses are now being made available around the state as well as private on-site courses for owners of businesses that offer off-premise sales, including restaurants and hotels.

Unlike "voluntary" programs practiced by other retailers, the ServSafe® Alcohol program provides a three-hour course and test with certification that is valid for three years. The national program being offered in Indiana is approved for use by many state and local regulatory agencies where retailers are required to meet training requirements.

In Indiana, server training is required for employees and managers of liquor stores, bars and restaurants - but not for employees of groceries, gas stations, convenience stores and drug stores.

"It makes sense for our association to embrace, adopt and offer a program of this caliber since the laws require us to be more responsible in our communities than most other retail outlets selling alcohol," said John Livengood, president and CEO of the association. "We want to be the first to adopt nationally recognized training standards and remain proactive."

Adding newly updated alcohol laws to the training program is also critical to the courses, Livengood said. A major policy shift in the state occurs July 1, when any retailer selling alcohol that can be carried out of an establishment will be required to card all potential buyers and verify ID.

Currently, there is no such requirement and any retailer can set its own policies and practices to determine if a buyer is 21 years old -- the legal age to purchase alcohol in Indiana.

Livengood said there's also an incentive for servers to get up-to-date training: The new mandatory carding law passed by the Indiana General Assembly creates an additional criminal penalty. A server who fails to check for an ID and ask for valid proof after July 1 can be criminally charged with a Class B misdemeanor, which carries a penalty of up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.

He said some insurance companies will also provide a discount for retailers who train their employees.

Under the new law, customers and patrons will be required to produce 1) a driver's license; 2) an identification card recognized by this state, other states or the federal government; or 3) a government-issued document with a photo and date of birth.

Livengood said the 500-member package store association has long supported a mandatory carding law and mandatory server training while other retailers have successfully pushed for exemptions to mandatory training in state law.

But unlike many other retailers, such as groceries, drug stores, gas stations and convenience stores that sell alcohol, the association's package store members are under strict regulatory standards imposed by the state and are the first to come under the scrutiny of law enforcement officials.

"Our members are making a commitment to start mandatory carding earlier than state law demands," Livengood said.

The ServSafe® Alcohol program covers the following program areas:

  • Alcohol Law and Responsibility
  • Recognizing and Preventing Intoxication
  • Checking Identification
  • Handling Difficult Situations

For more information online, visit: http://www.indianabeverageretailers.org/

About the Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers (IABR)

The Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers is a statewide membership group for package store owners licensed and regulated by the state of Indiana. Founded in 1936, the association's mission is to protect, promote and improve the package store industry in Indiana. The association represents Hoosier businesses with 8,000 employees.

SOURCE Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.indianabeverageretailers.org

Sidney Frank Importing Co., Inc. a leader in ultra-premium spirits is proud to announce that its ultra-premium rum, Tommy Bahama has been honored with a double gold medal for Golden Sun and a gold medal for White Sand in the white and dark/gold rum categories at the 2010 San Francisco Spirits Competition.  

The San Francisco World Spirits Competition is the first comprehensive, international spirits judging ever held in the United States on an annual basis. This year, the Competition celebrates its 10th year of awarding spirit excellence.  Held at the Hotel Nikko located in downtown San Francisco on March 13th and 14th, the 2010 San Francisco World Spirits Competition's expert panel of judges conducted blind taste tests, awarding medals based on taste alone. Results were announced Tuesday, March 16th.  

"We are honored to have been awarded such high accolades from the esteemed San Francisco World Spirits Competition," says Bill Henderson, SVP Marketing and Advertising of Sidney Frank Importing Co, Inc.  "For Tommy Bahama Rum to receive both a double gold medal for its Golden Sun and a gold medal for White Sand is a true testament to its quality and exceptional taste."  

Tommy Bahama Rum is made in Barbados at the legendary R. L. Seale Distillery.  R. L. Seale has been crafting rum for more than eighty years and four generations, and their experience shows in every elegant bottle of Tommy Bahama.  Tommy Bahama Rum's two delightfully distinct flavors, Tommy Bahama White Sand and Tommy Bahama Golden Sun, are both made with the finest blackstrap molasses and the cleanest, clearest water naturally filtered through coral stone.  Tommy Bahama Rums are fermented using specially selected yeast imported from the wine-growing regions of South Africa. 

Tommy Bahama White Sand Rum is aged a minimum of two years in American white oak barrels.  A clear, light-bodied rum, White Sand has a smooth entry and clean finish with hints of tangy, tropical fruit.  Tommy Bahama Golden Sun Rum is a blend of rums aged up to ten years in American white oak barrels.  A full-bodied, amber rum, Golden Sun has an elegant, fruity nose and a taste nuanced with hints of coffee, roasted nuts, and sweet pralines.  Tommy Bahama Rums have no added sugar or artificial blenders.

Tommy Bahama Rum, 40% Alc. /Vol. Imported exclusively by Sidney Frank Importing Company, Inc., New Rochelle, NY. www.tommybahamarum.com  

DRINK RESPONSIBLY

About Sidney Frank Importing Co., Inc.

Founded in 1972, Sidney Frank Importing Co., Inc. of New Rochelle, NY is the creator and importer of ultra-premium spirits.  Our growing portfolio includes Jagermeister Liqueur from Germany, the best-selling liqueur in the United States; Gekkeikan Sake from Japan; Michael Collins Irish Whiskey; Jacques Cardin Cognac VSOP; and Tommy Bahama Rum.  For more information, visit www.sidneyfrank.com.

CONTACT:  Kate Laufer, +1-914-637-5752, KLaufer@sidneyfrank.com

SOURCE Tommy Bahama Rum

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.tommybahamarum.com

The National Puerto Rican Coalition will spearhead a new six-state Coalition to Stop Diageo Now, leaders of the effort announced in San Juan.

"With organizational structures in place in Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania, we are now positioned to launch a grass-roots effort to educate voters about Captain Morgan Rum's $2.7 million raid on poor people in both Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and let them know which candidates will end the practice," said NPRC Chairman Miguel Lausell.

"The 'Stop Diageo Now' Coalition will send the message that money intended for America's poorest citizens should not be diverted instead to the bottom line of British corporations," added NPRC President Rafael Fantauzzi.

"We will urge consumers to stop consuming Diageo's products until Congress enacts sensible legislation to ensure that tax dollars intended for helping poor people are not diverted to international conglomerates," added Lausell.

The Coalition will educate the public about how Diageo, PLC, a London-based liquor conglomerate, has managed to siphon fully half of the money Congress intended to be used to meet the social needs of both Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The subsidies, in the form of relocation incentives to encourage Diageo to move its Captain Morgan distillery from Puerto Rico to St. Croix, represent 50 percent of all revenues that will be received by the Virgin Islands as a result of the company's relocation. Legislation pending in Congress would set a 10% limit on the portion of excise tax rebates any rum producer could receive in subsidies.

Besides Captain Morgan, Diageo manufactures Bailey's Irish Cream, Guinness, J&B scotch, Johnny Walker, Jose Cuervo tequila and Smirnoff vodka, among others.

Charter members of the Stop Diageo Now Coalition include:

  • Puerto Rican Parade (CT)
  • Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce of South Florida (Sarasota, FL)
  • Sarasota Puerto Rican Chamber of Florida (FL)
  • US Hispanic Leadership Institute (IL)
  • National Puerto Rican Day Parade (NY)
  • Puerto Rican Family Institute (NY)
  • Yonkers Puerto Rican/Hispanic Day Parade Foundation (NY)
  • Parada San Juan Bautista (Camden, NJ/PA)
  • Desfile de la Hispanidad, (Trenton, NJ)
  • Comite Patriotico Cultural Puertorriqueno (NJ)
  • Desfile Estatal Puertorriqueno de New Jersey (NJ)

SOURCE National Puerto Rican Coalition

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Jagermeister, the brand known for decades of involvement with rock and metal bands, continues to own the concert circuit with the 2010 Spring Jagermeister Music Tour featuring Grammy Award winning American rock band KoRn.  The tour, which is Jagermeister's 16th Music Tour, kicks off May 2nd in South Carolina and plays over 25 shows across the nation in celebration of the upcoming release of KoRn's ninth studio album "KoRn III: Remember Who You Are."

Emerging with a sound unlike any other in 1994, KoRn has become one of the most important bands in rock n' roll history. Not including KoRn's soon to debut album, the LA-based band has released eight full-length studio albums and 11 releases overall, with eight of those selling platinum or platinum plus. KoRn has sold over 30 million albums worldwide, has played countless sold-out shows and has received six Grammy nominations; two of which they have won for "Freak on a Leash" and "Here to Stay" respectively. Their ninth offering, "KoRn III: Remember Who You Are" embraces the savage, raw energy that KoRn's diehard fans have come to expect over the years while unleashing an uneasiness reminiscent of the band's most unbridled material. This makes sense, since the record was produced by Ross Robinson, who helmed KoRn's first two groundbreaking albums.

"Back in the day Jagermeister was one of the first brands to back KoRn. Those early tours were some of the best times of our lives. Now we are looking to bring that vibe back in a big way," says KoRn front man Jonathan Davis.

KoRn will rock the 2010 Spring Jagermeister Music Tour through mid June with help from supporting acts 2Cents, and a local Jagermeister sponsored band. In addition, top stand-up comedian Big Jay Oakerson, known for his laid back, likeable, yet biting style, will emcee the tour. Since the summer of 2005 2Cents has traced nearly every major highway in North America introducing their high energy live act and passion filled intense music to crowd after crowd. The band recently unveiled their sophomore album "Dress to Kill" featuring their hit, "Get What."

"KoRn is not only a Grammy-winning band, but one that had been vocal about their love for Jagermeister since the 90s," said Bill Henderson, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Advertising for the Sidney Frank Importing Company. "We are excited to partner with them as well as 2Cents, and Big Jay Oakerson to create what will undoubtedly be Jagermeister's biggest Music Tour to date."

This tour is something very different for KoRn, since they will be playing ballrooms and clubs in some of the most intimate settings in a very long time. This tour acts as a great way to recapture the old-school KoRn style reminiscent in their first two albums and the upcoming KoRn III. Jonathan Davis explains; "we wanted to play new songs for the diehard fans in a setting that fits the music, so we told the promoters to take out the seats!"

The 16th Annual Jagermeister Music Tour will feature Jagermeister custom tour prizes from Schecter Guitars and Peavey Electronics. In addition, Jagermeister will be hosting nightly text-to-win giveaways including tap machines, tee shirts, hats and other branded POS. Giveaways are subject to state and local laws and participants must be of legal drinking age or older.

Register to win VIP tickets and backstage access at www.jagermeistermusictour.com.

JAGERMEISTER IS DEDICATED TO MUSIC, NOT UNDERAGE DRINKING

About Jagermeister

Jagermeister, which translates to "master hunter", is the #1 selling imported liqueur in the United States and one of the top shot brands in the world. The liqueur is based on a secret recipe of 56 herbs, blooms, roots and fruits from around the world.  Jagermeister, with the distinctive square bottle, was developed in 1934 in Germany and the brand quickly gained global fame through its innovative marketing, unique taste profile and its association with good times. Jagermeister Liqueur is 35% Alc./Vol. and imported exclusively by Sidney Frank Importing Company, Inc., New Rochelle, NY www.jager.com. Jagermeister is available in the following sizes in the United States: 50ml, 100ml, 200ml, 375ml, 750ml, 1L, 1.75L.


JAGERMEISTER SPRING MUSIC TOUR

Sunday, May 02, 2010

N Myrtle Beach, SC

House of Blues

Monday, May 03, 2010

Charlotte, NC

The Fillmore Charlotte

Thursday, May 06, 2010

Clifton Park, NY

Northern Lights

Friday, May 07, 2010

Hampton Beach, NH

Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom

Saturday, May 08, 2010

Lewiston, ME

Colisee

Monday, May 10, 2010

New York, NY

Roseland Ballroom

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Scranton, PA

Scranton Cultural Centre at Masonic Temple

Saturday, May 15, 2010

Milwaukee, WI

Eagles Ballroom

Saturday, May 29, 2010

San Antonio, TX

Sunken Gardens Amphitheatre

Sunday, May 30, 2010

Houston, TX

Verizon Wireless Theater

Tuesday, June 01, 2010

Laredo, TX

Laredo Entertainment Center

Wednesday, June 02, 2010

Lubbock, TX

The Pavilion

Additional dates to be announced









Kate Laufer

Director, Public Relations

Sidney Frank Importing Company, Inc.

914-637-5752

klaufer@sidneyfrank.com



SOURCE Jagermeister

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.jagermeistermusictour.com
http://www.jager.com

Today Campari inaugurates its Gallery, a dynamic, multimedia and interactive place that traces the life of the brand through modern and contemporary art from 1860 to the present day, in its 150th anniversary year. Campari has collected pieces belonging to many different artists, such as Cappiello, Munari, and Depero, to whom Campari dedicated a temporary exhibit.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100318/382767 )

Campari was created by the talented Gaspare Campari, master drink maker, who gave birth to a brand that would later go on to be enjoyed around the world.

"We are proud to be able to open a gallery that will allow visitors to fully experience the essence of our brand," explains Bob Kunze-Concewitz, CEO Gruppo Campari. "Visitors will gain a unique experience of the worlds of art, communication and photography that over the years have secured the uniqueness and appreciation of our brand worldwide. The 150th anniversary is for us an inspiration to keep on growing and experiencing different creative and artistic forms, always following the red passion, the fundamental element of our daily commitment."

As well as opening the Galleria, Campari is launching the Campari Art Label project. Three artists - avaf, Tobias Rehberger and Vanessa Beecroft - starting from the essence of the colour red and from the achievements of this internationally famous aperitif, created three different art works to create exclusive and limited edition bottles that describes the various facets of the universe of Campari.

Gruppo Campari is today a major player in the global branded beverage industry, with a portfolio of over 40 premium and super premium brands marketed and distributed in more than 190 countries. The Group, which employs over 2,000 people, has an extensive portfolio that spans three business segments: spirits, wines and soft drinks. Gruppo Campari is the sixth-biggest player worldwide in the branded spirits category. It boasts a leading position in Italy and Brazil and has a strong presence in the US and continental Europe. The shares of the parent company, Davide Campari-Milano, are listed on the Italian Stock Exchange since July 2001.

    Find your local PR contact:
http://www.camparigroup.com/en/press_media/press_contacts/press_contacts.jsp

For further information and images of Galleria Campari visit: http://www.camparigroup.com/en/press_media/image_gallery/galleria_campari.jsp

For further information and images of Campari and its 150th anniversary visit: http://www.camparigroup.com/en/press_media/image_gallery/campari_download.jsp

SOURCE Gruppo Campari

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The Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers has launched a nationally accredited program to train retailers on the best practices to sell alcohol with additional updates on new state laws including a mandatory carding requirement.

Up to 140,000 owners, managers and servers need to be trained in Indiana, according to the association. Public courses are now being made available around the state as well as private on-site courses for owners of businesses that offer off-premise sales, including restaurants and hotels.

Unlike "voluntary" programs practiced by other retailers, the ServSafe® Alcohol program provides a three-hour course and test with certification that is valid for three years. The national program being offered in Indiana is approved for use by many state and local regulatory agencies where retailers are required to meet training requirements.

In Indiana, server training is required for employees and managers of liquor stores, bars and restaurants - but not for employees of groceries, gas stations, convenience stores and drug stores.

"It makes sense for our association to embrace, adopt and offer a program of this caliber since the laws require us to be more responsible in our communities than most other retail outlets selling alcohol," said John Livengood, president and CEO of the association. "We want to be the first to adopt nationally recognized training standards and remain proactive."

Adding newly updated alcohol laws to the training program is also critical to the courses, Livengood said. A major policy shift in the state occurs July 1, when any retailer selling alcohol that can be carried out of an establishment will be required to card all potential buyers and verify ID.

Currently, there is no such requirement and any retailer can set its own policies and practices to determine if a buyer is 21 years old -- the legal age to purchase alcohol in Indiana.

Livengood said there's also an incentive for servers to get up-to-date training: The new mandatory carding law passed by the Indiana General Assembly creates an additional criminal penalty. A server who fails to check for an ID and ask for valid proof after July 1 can be criminally charged with a Class B misdemeanor, which carries a penalty of up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.

He said some insurance companies will also provide a discount for retailers who train their employees.

Under the new law, customers and patrons will be required to produce 1) a driver's license; 2) an identification card recognized by this state, other states or the federal government; or 3) a government-issued document with a photo and date of birth.

Livengood said the 500-member package store association has long supported a mandatory carding law and mandatory server training while other retailers have successfully pushed for exemptions to mandatory training in state law.

But unlike many other retailers, such as groceries, drug stores, gas stations and convenience stores that sell alcohol, the association's package store members are under strict regulatory standards imposed by the state and are the first to come under the scrutiny of law enforcement officials.

"Our members are making a commitment to start mandatory carding earlier than state law demands," Livengood said.

The ServSafe® Alcohol program covers the following program areas:

  • Alcohol Law and Responsibility
  • Recognizing and Preventing Intoxication
  • Checking Identification
  • Handling Difficult Situations

For more information online, visit: http://www.indianabeverageretailers.org/

About the Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers (IABR)

The Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers is a statewide membership group for package store owners licensed and regulated by the state of Indiana. Founded in 1936, the association's mission is to protect, promote and improve the package store industry in Indiana. The association represents Hoosier businesses with 8,000 employees.

SOURCE Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.indianabeverageretailers.org

Southern Wine & Spirits of America, the nation's largest wine and spirits distributor with operations in 29 states, has selected SKUforce for supplier and product data across their Multi-Domain cloud repository. SKUforce is a Collaborative Cloud Platform that can be customized to fit the data management needs of companies like Southern Wine & Spirits who typically struggle to manage thousands of product SKUs and images in disparate systems and Excel spreadsheets.

"We were amazed that the web-based Collaborative Cloud Platform worked our way, as if we had built it in-house and it far exceeded our expectations," said Nitin Anand, Item Classification Manager for Southern Wine & Spirits of America Corporate Business Intelligence division. "SKUforce flawlessly created 120 mandatory and rich attributes by linking rich data from 1700 Suppliers, 5000 Brands, 75000 SKU's, 30000 images and documents all in 90 days. We are immediately collecting and collaborating on data over the cloud that is highly likely to improve our business processes and sales pipeline."

The SKUforce team built a custom platform for Southern Wine & Spirits of America that offered integrated digital asset management, business intelligence reports and easy to read metrics. SKUforce also designed an essential cascading hierarchical menu which is extremely valuable to the alcohol beverage industry. The SKUforce Collaborative Cloud Platform also allows for the browsing and searching of metadata as well as filters which is essential in helping wine subject matter experts and master sommeliers locate and code quickly their mandated rich attributes.

"We're honored to be selected by Southern Wine & Spirits of America because the Collaborative Cloud Platform truly brings a new level of data management efficiency that speeds their product time to market and reduces overhead all while maximizing their product channel reach," said Anand Ayyar, Partner at SKUforce. "SKUforce is designed for distributors and retailers like Southern Wine & Spirits of America who must gather, collaborate on and analyze data to streamline business processes. SKUforce fills the need to expand their sales and product strategy quickly by making supplier participation extremely easy."

About Southern Wine & Spirits of America

Southern Wine & Spirits of America, Inc. is the nation's largest wine and spirits distributor, with current operations in 29 states. The multi-state distributor currently operates in: Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Kentucky, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Mississippi, New Hampshire, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Vermont, Virginia and West Virginia—as well as the additional seven states of Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming and Utah through the Southern-Odom/Spirits West partnership. Southern also holds operating licenses and permits in the three states of Indiana, Nebraska and Texas. On a national basis, Southern Wine & Spirits of America, Inc. employs more than 10,000 team members. For more information contact: www.southernwine.com.

About SKUforce

SKUforce is a Collaborative Cloud Platform that gathers, collaborates and publishes all types of business and product data. SKUforce was designed for manufacturers, distributors, retailers and service vendors who desire a holistic cloud view of their data from a Global Repository that is easy to use, extensible and adapts to changing business requirements. The benefits of SKUforce's total Collaborative Cloud Platform include removing data complexity, creating reusable assets and enabling businesses to maximize existing investments. SKUforce was founded by industry veterans with many years of experience in MDM/PLM/ECM and enterprise connectivity. SKUforce is available as SaaS or as an on-premise solution. SKUforce has offices in San Francisco, Chicago and Delhi, India. For more information, please call (866) 443-2058.

SOURCE SKUforce

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.skuforce.com/
http://www.southernwine.com/

Constellation Wines U.S. and Greenlight Media & Marketing, LLC today announced the return of Pairings: Food + Wine + Music - a media brand dedicated to creating fine living products, services and experiences. Bringing together top chefs, musicians and winemakers, each experience will pair menus, song lists and wine from participating artists, and content from past and future events can be seen at www.pairings.com.

To launch Pairings: Food + Wine + Music last Fall, exclusive events were hosted for American Express® Cardmembers, beginning at Robert Mondavi Winery in Oakville, Napa Valley, where renowned artist Dave Matthews joined New Orleans chef John Besh and Winemaker Genevieve Jannsens. The next event featured superstar chef and restaurateur Tom Colicchio and music sensation John Legend, along with Simi winemaker Susan Lueker, for an experience at Colicchio's Craftsteak restaurant in New York City.

The inspiration of Greenlight Media & Marketing CEO, Dominic Sandifer, Pairings: Food + Wine + Music presents an interactive new way of engaging consumers and exposing them to new food, wine and music experiences. "Pairings is an experiential brand that will connect people to great new food, wine and music through both live and digital experiences, which are the hallmark of social networking. We are thrilled to be collaborating with Constellation Wines U.S. to deliver this unique program to consumers in a variety of media formats, as well as through specialty products and services."

"This is a huge step forward as we think about how consumers interact with wine," said Constellation Wines U.S. Chief Marketing Officer, Chris Fehrnstrom.  "We have a portfolio of distinctive brands from the world's finest wine regions, and to bring them to life in such an interactive environment is an exciting step for us.  Whether it's attending an exclusive concert at one of our vineyards, creating a playlist at home to pair with your next dinner party, or enjoying a glass of wine while streaming your favorite artist on-line, Pairings offers a dedicated resource to wine, food, and music in one, turn-key package."

The artistic collaborations between these food, wine and music masters, as well as unique behind-the-scenes insights, are now featured at www.pairings.com.

Web site content also includes:

  • Channels highlighting premiere Pairings events with:
    • exclusive digital videos
    • exclusive event photos on Flikr stream
  • Food page featuring chef bio, menus, recipes and images, merchandise links
  • Wine page featuring winemaker/winery bio, event wine list, photos, and relevant links 
  • Music page featuring musician bio, playlist, set list, photos, links to purchase music and merchandise
  • Live performances by the artists, a peek into the kitchen of each chef, and a taste of the winemaker's skill in each wine selected for these special events.

The 2010 Pairings event schedule is currently under development and experiences featuring new artists, chefs and locations/wineries will be announced soon. For more information, please visit www.pairings.com.

About Constellation Wines U.S.

Constellation Wines U.S. is a division of Constellation Brands Inc., the world's leading wine company that achieves success through an unmatched knowledge of wine consumers paired with storied brands that suit varied lives and tastes. With a broad portfolio of widely admired premium products across the wine and spirits categories, Constellation's brand portfolio includes Robert Mondavi, Clos du Bois, Blackstone, Estancia, Franciscan Estate, Mount Veeder, Ravenswood, Jackson-Triggs, Kim Crawford, Simi and SVEDKA Vodka.

About Greenlight Media & Marketing LLC

Formed in January of 2008 by music industry and brand marketing leaders Coran Capshaw, Dominic Sandifer and Bruce Flohr, Greenlight Media & Marketing, LLC creates original music driven content and intellectual properties, as well as provides music and lifestyle marketing strategy and production for Fortune 500 companies.  Greenlight is the model for a modern day music marketing and content company, supporting and developing the union between artists, music and brands in popular culture through highly targeted media programs. Greenlight's clients and partners include Gillette, Whole Foods, Converse, Target, Verizon, American Express, and Constellation Brands.  Its original developed and owned media properties include "Pairings: Food, Wine, Music"; "Music and Words with Tom Ressa" ( Spin); and "Get in the Van." Greenlight also works closely with Coran Capshaw's other companies on overall brand development, programming and alignment for his RedLight Management artist roster including Dave Matthews Band, Tim McGraw, Good Charlotte, Alanis Morrisette, Ben Harper, etc, as well as ATO/TBD Records and Starr Hill Present's music festival partnerships inclusive of Bonnaroo, Outside Lands, etc.

About American Express

American Express Company is a leading global payments and travel company founded in 1850. For more information, visit www.americanexpress.com.

SOURCE Constellation Wines U.S.; Greenlight Media & Marketing

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.pairings.com

The Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers has launched a nationally accredited program to train retailers on the best practices to sell alcohol with additional updates on new state laws including a mandatory carding requirement.

Up to 140,000 owners, managers and servers need to be trained in Indiana, according to the association. Public courses are now being made available around the state as well as private on-site courses for owners of businesses that offer off-premise sales, including restaurants and hotels.

Unlike "voluntary" programs practiced by other retailers, the ServSafe® Alcohol program provides a three-hour course and test with certification that is valid for three years. The national program being offered in Indiana is approved for use by many state and local regulatory agencies where retailers are required to meet training requirements.

In Indiana, server training is required for employees and managers of liquor stores, bars and restaurants - but not for employees of groceries, gas stations, convenience stores and drug stores.

"It makes sense for our association to embrace, adopt and offer a program of this caliber since the laws require us to be more responsible in our communities than most other retail outlets selling alcohol," said John Livengood, president and CEO of the association. "We want to be the first to adopt nationally recognized training standards and remain proactive."

Adding newly updated alcohol laws to the training program is also critical to the courses, Livengood said. A major policy shift in the state occurs July 1, when any retailer selling alcohol that can be carried out of an establishment will be required to card all potential buyers and verify ID.

Currently, there is no such requirement and any retailer can set its own policies and practices to determine if a buyer is 21 years old -- the legal age to purchase alcohol in Indiana.

Livengood said there's also an incentive for servers to get up-to-date training: The new mandatory carding law passed by the Indiana General Assembly creates an additional criminal penalty. A server who fails to check for an ID and ask for valid proof after July 1 can be criminally charged with a Class B misdemeanor, which carries a penalty of up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.

He said some insurance companies will also provide a discount for retailers who train their employees.

Under the new law, customers and patrons will be required to produce 1) a driver's license; 2) an identification card recognized by this state, other states or the federal government; or 3) a government-issued document with a photo and date of birth.

Livengood said the 500-member package store association has long supported a mandatory carding law and mandatory server training while other retailers have successfully pushed for exemptions to mandatory training in state law.

But unlike many other retailers, such as groceries, drug stores, gas stations and convenience stores that sell alcohol, the association's package store members are under strict regulatory standards imposed by the state and are the first to come under the scrutiny of law enforcement officials.

"Our members are making a commitment to start mandatory carding earlier than state law demands," Livengood said.

The ServSafe® Alcohol program covers the following program areas:

  • Alcohol Law and Responsibility
  • Recognizing and Preventing Intoxication
  • Checking Identification
  • Handling Difficult Situations

For more information online, visit: http://www.indianabeverageretailers.org/

About the Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers (IABR)

The Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers is a statewide membership group for package store owners licensed and regulated by the state of Indiana. Founded in 1936, the association's mission is to protect, promote and improve the package store industry in Indiana. The association represents Hoosier businesses with 8,000 employees.

SOURCE Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers

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http://www.indianabeverageretailers.org

The following was released today by the Marin Institute:

What: Rallies -- District Visits

Where & When:

Assembly Member Hector de La Torre

Date: March 16

Rally time: 11 a.m.

Legislative visit time: 11:30 a.m.

Location: 8724 Garfield Avenue, Suite 104, South Gate, CA 90280

Assembly Member Ed Hernandez

Date: March 16

Rally time: 1:45 p.m.

Legislative visit time: 2:15 p.m.

Location: 1520 W. Cameron Ave., Suite 165, West Covina, CA 91790

Who:

  • A.W.A.R.E. Coalition
  • Asian American Drug Abuse Program (AADAP)
  • California Alliance for Retired Americans (CARA)
  • Drug Policy Alliance
  • The ARC
  • Marin Institute

Why: To advocate for the passage of AB 1694, the Alcohol-Related Services Act -- Authored by Assembly Member Jim Beall (D-San Jose), the measure creates the Alcohol-Related Services Program. The program will be funded by a $700+ million annual mitigation fee on Big Alcohol to help cover California's annual alcohol-related trauma care, hospitalization, treatment, prevention, and criminal justice costs. The bill will be voted on in the Assembly Health Committee on March 23, 2010.

To help legislators understand the astronomical annual $38.4 billion dollar cost of alcohol-related harm in California, and the effects on a chronically under-funded health care system and the residents of the state.

To elevate visibility of the Charge for Harm Alliance -- a diverse, statewide network of concerned individuals, treatment and prevention service providers, cities, counties, public health departments, enforcement, labor, youth and faith-based groups determined to pass a fair and meaningful alcohol-harm mitigation fee in California.  Other Alliance members and AB 1694 supporters will be visiting Assembly Health Committee members at the Capitol in Sacramento at the same time.

For additional information, go to: ChargeForHarm.org

Contact: Michael Scippa 415/548-0492 or Jorge Castillo 213/840-3336

SOURCE Marin Institute

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http://marininstitute.org

This Earth Day, doing a good deed has never been easier – or tastier – and all for under $10.  For each bottle of award-winning ONEHOPE Sauvignon Blanc Wine purchased at Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market, American Forests, a nonprofit organization dedicated to environmental restoration, will plant a tree in areas devastated by wildfires.

Fresh & Easy launched this exclusive wine last Earth Day and last year alone American Forests planted more than 3,200 new trees as a result of customer purchases.

Fresh & Easy created the exclusive ONEHOPE Sauvignon Blanc blend with California's Sonoma Wine Company using sustainable winegrowing practices.  The winery is a member of the Sonoma County Green Business Program and the Wine Institute's Sustainable Winegrowing Program.

"At Fresh & Easy we try to reduce our impact on the environment in everything we do, so it just makes sense to keep that in mind when it comes to the wine we offer," said Karen Fletcher, Wine Category Manager at Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market.  "We're happy to have partnered with ONEHOPE so we can provide our customers with a high-quality, affordable wine that also helps make our neighborhoods a little greener."  

Fresh & Easy's ONEHOPE Sauvignon Blanc is a delicious, crisp dry white with flavors of passion fruit and guava.  It's medium-bodied, smooth and pairs perfectly with pasta.  It has a long length and a very refreshing finish.

ONEHOPE Sauvignon Blanc Wine is the recipient of a Silver Medal at the 2008 Long Beach Grand Cru International Wine Competition.  Fresh & Easy's Master of Wine, Phil Reedman, worked closely with ONEHOPE Winemaker David Elliot to create this blend. The wine retails for $9.99 per 750 ml bottle.

About Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market

Fresh & Easy currently operates 146 stores in California, Arizona and Nevada.  In addition to fresh, high-quality prepared meals and produce, Fresh & Easy offers everyone's favorite national brand products and household items, all at unbelievably low prices.

Fresh & Easy has made it a priority to lessen its impact on the environment – on average, Fresh & Easy stores use 30% less energy than a typical supermarket and utilize technologies like automatically dimming lights, energy efficient refrigeration units and LED lighting.  Fresh & Easy recycles or reuses all its shipping and display materials and uses environmentally-friendly trailers to transport food.  The company is a pilot member of the LEED Volume Certification Program and has invested in a 500,000 sq ft solar roof installation on its distribution center in Riverside, California.

More information regarding Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market can be found at www.freshandeasy.com.

About American Forests

American Forests' mission is to grow a healthier world with trees by working with communities on local efforts that restore and maintain forest ecosystems.  Its work encompasses planting trees, calculating the value of urban forests, fostering environmental education, and improving public policy for trees at the national level.  American Forests has a goal of 100 million trees planted by 2020.  More information on American Forests can be found at www.americanforests.org.

About ONEHOPE Wine

For more information on ONEHOPE Wine please visit www.onehopewine.com

SOURCE Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.freshandeasy.com/
http://www.americanforests.org/
http://www.onehopewine.com/

Shot Spirits Corporation (Pink Sheets: SSPT) is pleased to announce that the Company will be holding its Nationwide Teleconference today, Tuesday, March 16, 2010 at 4:15 PM EDT. (Eastern Daylight Time) to update the financial community on recent events that affect Shot Spirits Corporation and its shareholders. The Company will be discussing new sales opportunities and strategic partnerships it has developed over the last six months, as well as its initiatives to increase sales. If you would like to participate in the Nationwide Teleconference with Shot Spirits at 4:15 PM EDT today, please dial 1-800-871-9060, pass code 943301958#.

Shot Spirits Corporation  recently announced that the Company's Board of Directors approved a dividend of restricted common stock of Green Bridge Industries, Inc. (Pink Sheets: GRBG) for shareholders of record as of April 5, 2010, with a payment date of no later than May 5, 2010.  Shot Spirits shareholders are to receive 1 share of Green Bridge Industries, Inc. stock for every 33 shares they own of Shot Spirits Corporation, as of the Record Date; no fractional shares shall be issued. Green Bridge Industries is currently trading at approximately $.002 per share.

"This teleconference is very timely for Shot Spirits; we have accomplished many goals during the last six months that we want to share with the investment community and look forward to discussing what's next for the Company in a public forum," stated Brian Barrett, President of Shot Spirits Corporation.

The Nationwide Teleconference will be hosted and moderated by Marc Jablon, CEO of Big Apple Consulting USA. The featured speakers will be Brian Barrett, President & Director of Shot Spirits Corporation and Tammy Posten, Secretary/Treasurer & Director of Shot Spirits.

About Shot Spirits Corporation:

Shot Spirits Corporation through its two wholly owned subsidiaries, Shot Spirits International and GuestMetrics, Inc., is focused on delivering products and services to the multi-billion dollar hospitality industry. Shot Spirits, through their partnership with Beverage Pouch Group, is an innovator in the beverage industry with the flavors of the ShotPak(R) brand. ShotPak(R) Cocktails and STR8UP Spirits brands are packed in their patented "Green no Landfill" StandUp pouch with easy-tear open feature. Shot Spirits is focused on distribution in supermarkets, liquor stores, as well as bars, restaurants, and sporting venues across the globe. GuestMetrics is a data services company specializing in the collection and cleansing of data from restaurants, bars and hotels. From top-line reporting on the state of the industry to specific brand information, suppliers can access consumer spending information not only on their specific brands, but their competitors as well.

Safe Harbor Statement:

The information posted in this release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You can identify these statements by use of the words "may," "will," "should," "plans," "expects," "anticipates," "continue," "estimate," "project," "intend," and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected or anticipated. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, general economic and business conditions, effects of continued geopolitical unrest and regional conflicts, competition, changes in technology and methods of marketing, delays in completing various engineering and manufacturing programs, changes in customer order patterns, changes in product mix, continued success in technological advances and delivering technological innovations, shortages in components, production delays due to performance quality issues with outsourced components, and various other factors beyond the Company's control.

SOURCE Shot Spirits Corporation

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WineMcGee.com today announced its integration with Wine.com and creation of a vivid wine database including flavor profiles, food pairings, professional ratings, and consumer reviews on over 45,000 wines. The wine database extends the wine tasting, personal wine management, and social networking technology at WineMcGee.com. The integration is powered by the Wine.com API, which provides access to the extensive catalog of wine content at Wine.com.

"This new database allows us to supplement our local wine tasting, restaurant, and winery listings with content from Wine.com and provide great tools that haven't existed in the past," said Michael Siegler, founder of WineMcGee. "For example, users can print wine tasting sheets prior to attending local tastings, and then come back to the website and review or purchase wine afterward."

Approaching the end of its Beta testing cycle, WineMcGee.com is focused on building tools to allow users to track their wine experiences and learn more about wine. The company is completing development of new software for cellar management, wine country vacation planning, and further integration with local restaurants and retailers.

"WineMcGee.com is the most comprehensive and compelling integration with our API I have seen so far," said Cam Fortin, Director of Business Development at Wine.com. "Although WineMcGee.com is still in Beta, it seems poised for great growth and user adoption."

About WineMcGee.com

WineMcGee.com is the ultimate source for local wine content in major cities throughout the US, including information on wine tastings, BYOB restaurants, retailers, and wineries. The website is built upon a social network, and provides technology to allow users to track their wine experiences and learn more about wine. Focused on the millennial generation, WineMcGee.com delivers a robust and intuitive wine website that is fun and accessible.

About Wine.com

Wine.com is the nation's #1 online wine retailer, according to Internet Retailer magazine's annual ranking of websites by revenue, offering thousands of wines, wine gifts, gift baskets and monthly wine clubs. Wine.com's mission is to be the ultimate resource for wine enthusiasts, whether shopping for themselves or sending a gift, by offering a great selection, low prices, convenient delivery and helpful information. Wine.com is the world's most visited wine web site, according to research conducted by comScore Media Metrix. For more information, visit http://www.wine.com.

SOURCE WineMcGee.com

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http://www.winemcgee.com/
http://www.wine.com

Kim Crawford Wines, a brand that views winemaking as an art and believes in forging your own path, today unveiled The Artists' Lounge "Vintage 2009" virtual gallery, displaying a full collection of original artwork inspired by musings and ideas shared by the community's members.

Within the "Vintage 2009" gallery, The Artists' Lounge's four Artists in Residence have created seven original works of art reflective of the times and that represent the artistic genres of music, photography, print making and poetry. Of the seven community members that inspired the art, Briane Smith-Perez was chosen as the grand prize winner and will receive a trip for two to New Zealand to share in the spirit behind Kim Crawford's winemaking.

"At Kim Crawford, we strive to capture the true aromas and flavors of New Zealand in each bottle, allowing the flavors of the wines to captivate the senses," says Matt Large, winemaker. "We expanded this spirit beyond the wine bottle and aimed to captivate, inspire, engage and discover an emerging art community with The Artists' Lounge."

Like Kim Crawford Wines, the Artists in Residence combine a passion for excellence with a vision for exploring new boundaries. The emerging artists whose original artwork appears in the "Vintage 2009" collection are:

  • Mateo Messina, award-winning film, television and symphony composer
  • Gary Heller, expressive photographer
  • Dan Grzeca, painter and printmaker
  • Emily Kagan Trenchard, performance poet specializing in slam poetry

In October 2009, Kim Crawford Wines launched The Artists' Lounge, a virtual community designed to celebrate emerging artists – to uncork creativity and let the community start something together. Consumers were invited to join the conversation by sharing their thoughts, ideas and musings at ExperienceKimCrawford.com/TheArtistsLounge and earned the chance to see their inspirations turned into original works of art, now located in the "Vintage 2009" collection.

To join the community and receive a private viewing of the "Vintage 2009" gallery, visit ExperienceKimCrawford.com/TheArtistsLounge. You can also follow Kim Crawford Wines on Twitter @kimcrawfordwine and on Facebook to receive news about wine, events and programs.

SOURCE Kim Crawford Wines

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.ExperienceKimCrawford.com

In an ongoing demonstration of its commitment to the 10 generation-strong company and family motto – ancestry, prestige and tradition – Jose Cuervo International, the world's leading Tequila company, today unveils the 2010 edition of Reserva de la Familia. This year the limited-edition handcrafted wooden box for the 15th installment to this collection is adorned with the artistic styling of Pablo Vargas Lugo.

Reserva de la Familia is an award-winning Extra Anejo (aged) Tequila made from hand-selected, 100% pure blue agave grown in the Cuervo estate's richest volcanic soils. Reserva de la Familia, a crown jewel of the Jose Cuervo portfolio, is considered to be a collectable masterpiece by spirit connoisseurs around the world for both its superior taste and uniquely designed packaging.  Each year since 1995, the Cuervo family has selected a renowned Mexican artist to paint the new handcrafted wooden box for its ultra-premium vintage Tequila – part of its continuing support for promising Mexican artists and local culture.

This year's edition features the artistry of Pablo Vargas Lugo, whose work has been featured in more than a hundred exhibitions around the world. Vargas Lugo's art is not limited to any specific style, technique or theme, but rather he creates works characterized by an apparent simplicity of form, which hides a web of visual and conceptual operations. His works achieve both graphic and three-dimensional qualities by combining industrial and handmade processes.  Through this technique, he is able to mix together references and shapes from different sources and times.  

"The craftsmanship in the development of the Reserva de la Familia liquid and packaging is a true labor of love," said Juan Domingo Beckmann, Executive Director of Casa Cuervo and the 10th generation of Jose Cuervo descendents. "It is our privilege to share the spirit of Mexican culture, and the artists that contribute to it, with the world through these distinctive and powerful forms of expression."

In addition to winning several awards and a double gold medal from the 2006 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, Reserva de la Familia is recognized by industry experts as one of the world's finest spirits. Only a limited number of Reserva de la Familia bottles are produced each year, which makes this prized sipping Tequila a much-desired spirit.

This exclusive Tequila is part of a private family tradition dating back to 1795, when the Jose Cuervo family would descend into their private cellar to share the finest Tequila reserves with a select group of family and friends.  In 1995, to celebrate the 200-year anniversary of the Cuervo brand, the family decided to share Reserva de la Familia with the rest of the world, and began issuing limited-edition bottles.

Aged in new French and American charred oak barrels, Reserva de la Familia has a full, mellow taste that combines floral, agave, vanilla, nut and Cognac-like flavors and is typically sipped in a brandy snifter either straight or on the rocks.  Each bottle is carefully assembled by hand, numbered and dated, hand-dipped in wax and then placed in the handcrafted wooden box.  The 2008 Reserva de la Familia is expected to be available in most U.S. states in March for approximately $100 per 750ml bottle (price varies per market).

When enjoying Reserva de la Familia or any other product in the Jose Cuervo portfolio, please do so responsibly.

About Jose Cuervo

Jose Cuervo is the largest producer of tequila throughout Mexico and around the world. The Jose Cuervo portfolio of tequilas includes Jose Cuervo Especial Gold, the number one tequila worldwide, Jose Cuervo Especial Silver, Jose Cuervo Black Medallion, Jose Cuervo Tradicional, Jose Cuervo Platino, Jose Cuervo Reserva de la Familia, Jose Cuervo Golden Margaritas, Authentic Jose Cuervo Margaritas and Jose Cuervo Margarita Mix. For more information, visit www.josecuervo.com.

About DIAGEO

Jose Cuervo Tequilas are imported and marketed in the United States by Diageo North America, a subsidiary of Diageo plc. Diageo (Dee-AH-Gee-O) is the world's leading premium drinks business with an outstanding collection of beverage alcohol brands across spirits, wines and beer categories. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Guinness, Smirnoff, J&B, Baileys, Cuervo, Tanqueray, Captain Morgan, Crown Royal, Beaulieu Vineyard and Sterling Vineyards wines. Diageo is a global company, trading in more than 180 countries around the world. The company is listed on both the New York Stock Exchange (DEO) and the London Stock Exchange (DGE). For more information about Diageo, its people, brands and performance, visit us at http://www.diageo.com. For our global resource that promotes responsible drinking through the sharing of best practice tools, information and initiatives, visit DRINKiQ.com.

When enjoying its products, Diageo reminds its adult consumers to drink responsibly.  As the world's largest spirits, wine and beer company, Diageo is committed to social responsibility and the responsible marketing of its brands.  The Diageo Marketing Code is one of the most stringent in the industry.  Diageo is a founding member and major supporter of The Century Council, a not-for-profit organization whose programs are designed to combat drunk driving and underage drinking.

Celebrating life, every day, everywhere, responsibly.

Contacts:






Alexandra Sklansky

Greg Leonard

Dana Nicholas

Taylor

Diageo

Jose Cuervo International

212-714-5702

646-223-2111

212-590-0262

asklansky@taylorpr.com

greg.leonard@diageo.com

dnicholas@josecuervo.org


SOURCE Jose Cuervo

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http://www.josecuervo.com

Premium hand-crafted beer and sophisticated dress watches for men and women are the latest arrivals at the AIRMALL® at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE).  BAA Cleveland, developer of the new AIRMALL® at CLE, is pleased to welcome Gordon Biersch and Swatch to the concessions lineup at the AIRMALL®, which continues to change the face of the airport.  

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090304/NE78862LOGO)

Located on Concourse D, Gordon Biersch (2,400 sq. ft.) is a full-service restaurant and brewery that uses the freshest and finest ingredients for its signature ales, which have garnered a number of awards in the past twelve years.  The restaurant has an expansive menu of made-from-scratch food, all served in a friendly atmosphere.  Founded in 1988 in Palo Alto, CA, Gordon Biersch now has 27 locations in 16 states and Washington D.C.

Passengers seeking a sleek new watch for themselves or a gift for someone else can now shop at Swatch (450 sq. ft.), a highly respected international brand that has opened a new unit on Concourse C.  Swatch features sophisticated dress watches for men and women in stainless steel and leather, along with women's fashion jewelry. Known for its high-quality, Swiss-born time-keeping technology, Swatch first made its mark on the retail landscape in the 1980s, becoming well known for its colorful, collectible plastic watches.  

"Respected, high-quality brands have become a hallmark of the new AIRMALL® at CLE as the development continues to take shape, and Gordon Biersch and Swatch are no exception," said Tina LaForte, vice president of BAA Cleveland. "Moreover, passengers can continue to shop and dine at "Regular Mall Prices…Guaranteed.  It's the AIRMALL® promise, and it has come to mean something to travelers in Cleveland."  

"We are very proud of how the new AIRMALL® at CLE has taken shape.  Passengers are responding very favorably to the new concessions," said Airport Director Ricky Smith.  "Coupled with the other improvements we are making, Cleveland Hopkins International Airport has already become an example of how an airport can make a dramatic transformation that ultimately enhances the passenger experience."  

The City of Cleveland forged a 10-year contract with BAA Cleveland in February 2008 to develop and manage concessions at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE).  The city anticipates the AIRMALL® will double the current participation rate of local and minority-owned companies, dramatically increase the number of concession jobs, and double retail sales figures during the next decade.  

When complete, the AIRMALL® at CLE will occupy 76,000 square feet of retail space.

About BAA Cleveland

BAA Cleveland, Inc. is the developer and manager of the retail and concessions program at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE).  In 2008, BAA entered into a ten-year contract with the City of Cleveland to transform the retail, food and beverage concessions into the AIRMALL® at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, a strategic combination of well-known national brands and high-quality local concepts offered at "Regular Mall Prices…Guaranteed."  BAA Cleveland is a project of BAA USA, the developer and manager of the retail, food and beverage operations at the AIRMALLs® at Pittsburgh International Airport, Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, and Boston Logan International Airport (Terminals B and E).  BAA USA is an affiliate of BAA Limited, the world's leading airport company, which owns and operates six UK airports (Heathrow, Stansted, Southampton, Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow).  For more information, visit www.airmall.com or www.baausa.com.

Contact:

Jeff Donaldson


412-642-7700


jeff.donaldson@elias-savion.com  


SOURCE BAA Cleveland

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.baausa.com

Frances Kirchon and Linda Meyers, founders of the new culinary tour Cook New Orleans, announced today their program calendar for 2010. The tour features three hands-on cooking classes and insider visits to restaurants, cafes, bars, food markets, and historic music and arts neighborhoods. Kirchon said, "At Cook New Orleans, you'll roll up your sleeves and cook with New Orleans chefs using recipes, ingredients and techniques passed down over the generations. You'll meet restaurateurs up close and personal, visit offbeat spots on and off the tourist maps, and discover the New Orleans eateries the locals love."

The hands-on cooking classes feature special menus designed by Kirchon and Meyers to showcase the treasures of New Orleans cuisine. Classes are taught by master chefs anxious to share their culinary expertise, cooking secrets, and delicious food with food lovers. Meyers says, "Cook New Orleans will expand your palate and your understanding of the historical significance of New Orleans food customs and dishes. Each class features appetizers, main dishes, and desserts prepared in a relaxed and fun environment. You will learn new dishes, make new friends, and take home recipes to prepare for family and friends."

Kirchon and Meyers are cousins with deep cultural roots in the tastes and traditions of New Orleans.  The Cook New Orleans itinerary includes a walking cocktail tour of the French Quarter, a taste tour of historic restaurants' specialties, a visit to the Crescent City Farmers Market and the Old Algiers arts and music neighborhood, and breakfasts, lunches and dinners at the places where locals eat seafood, po'boys, muffulettas, and beignets.

The Cook New Orleans culinary program is offered four times in 2010 -- July 14-18; July 21-25; October 6-10; and November 3-7. The cost of the 5-day program is $1,750 per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplement is $250. Cost includes four nights hotel located in the French Quarter (Vieux Carre), three hands-on cooking classes, all meals and receptions, excursions, bus or mini-van transportation for tours, and gratuities. Airfare and airport transfers not included. For additional information, visit the Cook New Orleans web site at http://www.cookneworleans.com.

SOURCE Cook New Orleans

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.cookneworleans.com

Premium hand-crafted beer and sophisticated dress watches for men and women are the latest arrivals at the AIRMALL® at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE).  BAA Cleveland, developer of the new AIRMALL® at CLE, is pleased to welcome Gordon Biersch and Swatch to the concessions lineup at the AIRMALL®, which continues to change the face of the airport.  

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090304/NE78862LOGO)

Located on Concourse D, Gordon Biersch (2,400 sq. ft.) is a full-service restaurant and brewery that uses the freshest and finest ingredients for its signature ales, which have garnered a number of awards in the past twelve years.  The restaurant has an expansive menu of made-from-scratch food, all served in a friendly atmosphere.  Founded in 1988 in Palo Alto, CA, Gordon Biersch now has 27 locations in 16 states and Washington D.C.

Passengers seeking a sleek new watch for themselves or a gift for someone else can now shop at Swatch (450 sq. ft.), a highly respected international brand that has opened a new unit on Concourse C.  Swatch features sophisticated dress watches for men and women in stainless steel and leather, along with women's fashion jewelry. Known for its high-quality, Swiss-born time-keeping technology, Swatch first made its mark on the retail landscape in the 1980s, becoming well known for its colorful, collectible plastic watches.  

"Respected, high-quality brands have become a hallmark of the new AIRMALL® at CLE as the development continues to take shape, and Gordon Biersch and Swatch are no exception," said Tina LaForte, vice president of BAA Cleveland. "Moreover, passengers can continue to shop and dine at "Regular Mall Prices…Guaranteed.  It's the AIRMALL® promise, and it has come to mean something to travelers in Cleveland."  

"We are very proud of how the new AIRMALL® at CLE has taken shape.  Passengers are responding very favorably to the new concessions," said Airport Director Ricky Smith.  "Coupled with the other improvements we are making, Cleveland Hopkins International Airport has already become an example of how an airport can make a dramatic transformation that ultimately enhances the passenger experience."  

The City of Cleveland forged a 10-year contract with BAA Cleveland in February 2008 to develop and manage concessions at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE).  The city anticipates the AIRMALL® will double the current participation rate of local and minority-owned companies, dramatically increase the number of concession jobs, and double retail sales figures during the next decade.  

When complete, the AIRMALL® at CLE will occupy 76,000 square feet of retail space.

About BAA Cleveland

BAA Cleveland, Inc. is the developer and manager of the retail and concessions program at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE).  In 2008, BAA entered into a ten-year contract with the City of Cleveland to transform the retail, food and beverage concessions into the AIRMALL® at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, a strategic combination of well-known national brands and high-quality local concepts offered at "Regular Mall Prices…Guaranteed."  BAA Cleveland is a project of BAA USA, the developer and manager of the retail, food and beverage operations at the AIRMALLs® at Pittsburgh International Airport, Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, and Boston Logan International Airport (Terminals B and E).  BAA USA is an affiliate of BAA Limited, the world's leading airport company, which owns and operates six UK airports (Heathrow, Stansted, Southampton, Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow).  For more information, visit www.airmall.com or www.baausa.com.

Contact:

Jeff Donaldson


412-642-7700


jeff.donaldson@elias-savion.com  


SOURCE BAA Cleveland

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RELATED LINKS
http://www.baausa.com

Shot Spirits Corporation (Pink Sheets: SSPT) is pleased to announce that the Company has signed a non-exclusive licensing agreement with 3D Eye Solutions, Inc. (Pink Sheets: TDEY) to market and sell 3D digital signage and advertising to the multi-billion dollar hospitality industry.  Shot Spirits will be showcasing the 3D without glasses technology for potential advertisers and partners at the Nightclub and Bar Magazine's booth number 2617 at the Nightclub and Bar Convention and Trade Show.  Shot Spirits Executives will be meeting with a variety of night club, restaurant and bar owners, as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage manufacturers and distributors, and buyers from over 35 countries during the show, which is being held from March 8-10 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

The Nightclub and Bar Convention and Trade Show brings together industry professionals from all aspects of the $190 Billion on and off premise national beer, wine, and sprits industry, which is part of International Hospitality Week, and also includes the International Restaurant Show and Hotel World.  Approximately 26,000 qualified buyers from the industry will be attending the show where 55 percent of the attendees have the final say in purchasing decisions.  The Nightclub and Bar Convention and Trade Show is comprised of company officers, operations management, bartenders and mixologists.

3D Eye Solutions proprietary conversion technology was recently featured at the Grammys during the Michael Jackson Earth Song.  Its 3D Digital Signage screens are at the Las Vegas Hilton and being stalled by the New York Islanders at Nassau Coliseum.  3D Eye Solutions produces and processes media content for corporate venues, and trade show events.  The company also provides turnkey systems and converts existing media to enable end users to showcase properties in multi-view format.  

"The hotel, restaurant, bar and nightclub industry is one of the key industries that we are targeting to install and advertise as we are increasing our 3D without glasses digital signage systems on a global scale.  The executives from Shot Spirits have built a solid relationship with key decision makers in the hospitality industry," stated Michael Gibilisco, CEO of 3D Eye Solutions, Inc.  

"We are excited about the relationship we have developed with 3D Eye Solutions and we feel that the Nightclub and Bar Show is a perfect place to display their cutting edge technology and attract new business," stated Brian Barrett, President of Shot Spirits Corporation.

Shot Spirits Corporation recently announced that the Company's Board of Directors approved a dividend of restricted common stock of Green Bridge Industries, Inc. (Pink Sheets: GRBG) for shareholders of record as of April 5, 2010, with a payment date of no later than May 5, 2010.  Shot Spirits shareholders are to receive 1 share of Green Bridge Industries, Inc. stock for every 33 shares they own of Shot Spirits Corporation, as of the Record Date; no fractional shares shall be issued. Green Bridge Industries is currently trading at approximately $.002 per share.  

Shot Spirits also recently announced that the Company will be hosting a Nationwide Teleconference on March 16, 2010 at 4:15 pm ET.  There is expected to be a high demand for the call-in lines for this Nationwide Teleconference and space will be limited. If you would like to participate in the Nationwide Teleconference with Shot Spirits Corporation, please call 407-389-5900 and ask for investor relations to reserve your place and receive the information which will enable you to participate in the conference.

For more information on 3D Eye Solutions, please visit: www.3deyesolutions.com.

For more information on the Night Club and Bar Convention and Trade Show, please visit: www.ncbshow.com.

For more information on Shot Spirits Corporation, please visit: http://www.shotspiritscorporation.com/

Safe Harbor Statement:

The information posted in this release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You can identify these statements by use of the words "may," "will," "should," "plans," "expects," "anticipates," "continue," "estimate," "project," "intend," and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected or anticipated. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, general economic and business conditions, effects of continued geopolitical unrest and regional conflicts, competition, changes in technology and methods of marketing, delays in completing various engineering and manufacturing programs, changes in customer order patterns, changes in product mix, continued success in technological advances and delivering technological innovations, shortages in components, production delays due to performance quality issues with outsourced components, and various other factors beyond the Company's control.

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The Boston Beer Company, Inc. (NYSE: SAM) reported a fourth quarter core product depletions increase of 5% and a core product shipments increase of 5%.  Net income for the fourth quarter was $7.5 million, or $0.52 per diluted share, an increase of $3.9 million, or $0.27 per diluted share, from the fourth quarter of 2008, primarily as a result of increased core shipments and improved gross margins.  Depletions growth was driven by Samuel Adams® Seasonals, Twisted Tea® and the Samuel Adams® Brewmaster's Collection.  Net revenue for the fourth quarter of 2009 was $107.2 million, an increase of $3.4 million, or 3%, over the same period last year, primarily due to core volume gains.  For the twelve months ended December 26, 2009, net revenue increased by 4% to $415.1 million and the Company's earnings per diluted share were $2.17, an increase of $1.61 compared to 2008, which included the impact of the product recall initiated in April 2008.  Excluding the previously recorded impact of the product recall, earnings per share for 2009 increased $0.77, or 55%, compared to 2008.

Jim Koch, Chairman and Founder of the Company, commented, "We reported 5% depletions growth in the fourth quarter, bringing depletions growth for the second half of 2009 to 6%, as compared to a decline of 1% in the first half of 2009.  We believe that our fourth quarter depletions continued the improved trends that we identified at the end of the second quarter.  Looking to 2010, we are excited about the introduction of our new spring seasonal, Samuel Adams® Noble Pils, a hoppy pilsner beer brewed with a recipe that calls for all five varieties of Noble hops, which has initially been well received by drinkers, retailers and wholesalers.  While it is too early to judge repeat consumption, we believe that its introduction and our twenty-fifth anniversary celebration are helping us start 2010 strongly and our challenge is to maintain this momentum as we continue to face increased competition from expanded distribution of domestic specialty brands and regional craft brands.  We continue to explore ways to improve our sales execution, our brand strength and our position within the craft category and remain positive about the future of craft beer and our potential for future growth."

Mr. Koch also noted that, "key highlights of the fourth quarter and year were:

  • Depletions grew 5% for the quarter and approximately 3% for the year.
  • Our breweries continued to improve the quality, efficiencies, capacity and costs, with significant improvements coming at our Pennsylvania Brewery that we purchased in 2008.
  • Gross margin was 52% both for the fourth quarter and the full year.
  • We finished the year with $55.5 million in cash and no debt.
  • Our current estimate of earnings per diluted share for 2010 is between $2.35 and $2.65."

Martin Roper, the Company's President and CEO, stated, "Since the end of the first half of 2009 we have seen an improvement in the trends of our brands.  The brands may have responded positively to the redesign of our packaging and the increased investment in media advertising and our sales force, but it is also possible that some of the drinkers of the competitive variety introduced in the last 24 months may be returning to our beers.  Looking forward, we have no certainty that these trends will continue, but we feel we are in a good position to compete effectively through the strength of our brands and our sales force.  We are currently projecting that we should finish 2010 with depletions growth slightly lower than the second half 2009 trends.  We continue to believe that it is a good time to invest in our brands and have increased our investment in our sales force and added year-round radio advertising in order to achieve this goal.  We are prepared to forsake some earnings in the short term in order to make appropriate investments in brand-building activities that position us well for future growth as we remain confident about the long term prospect for the craft category and our brands."

Mr. Roper continued, "We completed our first full year of ownership of our Pennsylvania Brewery, which continues to brew great Samuel Adams® beer.  During 2009 we continued to make high quality beers, while significantly improving our costs and efficiencies at our breweries, which have contributed to our improved gross margins.  Most of these efficiency gains and margin improvements were achieved in the second half of the year after the completion of the Diageo contract in May 2009, which was at very low margins.  We are focused on a multi-year program to identify and execute projects that will continue to reduce cost, drive efficiency and increase productivity at both our Pennsylvania Brewery and our Cincinnati Brewery.  Looking forward to 2010, we expect that continued improvement in the efficiencies at our breweries and other resource efficiency projects will contribute to improved gross margins compared to 2009, but that this will not return us to the historic gross margins levels experienced prior to 2006 before the recent significant increases in brewery operating costs and packaging and ingredient costs."

4th Quarter Results

Core shipment volume for the three months ended December 26, 2009 was approximately 528,000 barrels, a 5% increase over the same period in 2008.  Total Company depletions in the fourth quarter grew 5%, driven by growth in Samuel Adams® Seasonals, Twisted Tea® and the Samuel Adams® Brewmaster's Collection.  The Company believes that wholesaler inventory levels at December 26, 2009 were at appropriate levels.

Bill Urich, Boston Beer Company CFO, said, "Our fourth quarter 2009 gross margin of 52% represented an increase of 5 percentage points over our fourth quarter 2008 gross margin.  This increase is due primarily to price increases, improved costs of operating our breweries, driven by lower energy costs, and the impact of the low margin contract production for Diageo North America, Inc. in the fourth quarter of 2008, partially offset by increased costs of package materials."

The Company's net income of $7.5 million, or $0.52 per diluted share, for the three months ended December 26, 2009 represented an increase of $3.9 million, or $0.27 per diluted share, from the same period last year.  The increase in net income is primarily due to increased core shipments, improved gross margin and a reduction of impairment charges, offset by increases in the provision for income taxes and general and administrative expenses.  Fourth quarter 2009 advertising, promotional and selling expenses were flat with those incurred in the fourth quarter of 2008, primarily as a result of decreases in freight expenses for shipping beer to wholesalers, driven mostly by reduced fuel costs, offset by an increase in advertising and salary and benefit costs related to the addition of sales personnel.  Fourth quarter 2009 general and administrative costs were $1.4 million higher than those incurred in the fourth quarter of 2008, primarily as a result of increased stock compensation expense and legal costs.  The Company incurred impairment charges of $0.5 million in the fourth quarter of 2009 based upon its review of the carrying values of its fixed assets, compared to a $1.9 million impairment charge for machinery and equipment in the fourth quarter of 2008.  The Company recorded a tax provision in the fourth quarter of 2009 of $5.4 million, compared to $2.7 million in the prior year.  The Company's fourth quarter tax rate was approximately 42%.

Year-to-Date Results

Core shipment volume for the year ended December 26, 2009 was approximately 2 million barrels, a 1% decrease compared to the same period in 2008.  Excluding the impact of the 2008 product recall, 2009 core shipment volume increased 1% from 2008 levels.  In 2009, total Company depletions increased approximately 3%, due primarily to increases in Samuel Adams® Seasonals, Twisted Tea® and the Samuel Adams® Brewmaster's Collection, which were partially offset by decreases in Samuel Adams Boston Lager® and Sam Adams Light®.

The Company's net income of $31.1 million, or $2.17 per diluted share, for the year ended December 26, 2009 represented an increase of $23.0 million, or $1.61 per diluted share, compared to the 2008 year. The increase in net income is primarily due to the impact of product recall costs of $22.8 million in 2008, improved gross margins of approximately 5% and lower advertising, promotional and selling costs in 2009, offset by increases in the provision for income taxes and general and administrative costs.  Advertising, promotional and selling expenses incurred during 2009 decreased by $11.3 million, as compared to 2008.  The decrease was primarily due to significant reductions in freight expenses to wholesalers and to a lesser extent better advertising rates and more efficient spending, partially offset by increases in salaries and benefits due to the addition of sales personnel.  General and administrative costs increased by $1.9 million during 2009 as compared to 2008, driven by a full twelve months of operating costs at the Pennsylvania Brewery, compared to only seven months in the same period in 2008, and increased consulting costs.  The Company incurred impairment charges of $1.0 million in 2009 based upon its review of the carrying values of its fixed assets, compared to a $1.9 million impairment charge for machinery and equipment in 2008.  The Company's effective tax rate for the 2009 year decreased to 42.8% from the 2008 rate of 48.9% as a result of higher pretax income but with no corresponding increase in non-deductible expenses.

Other matters

Year-to-date depletions reported to the Company through February 2010 increased approximately 9% from the same period in 2009, with one less selling day in 2010. The improvement in depletions trends is primarily due to the launch of Samuel Adams® Noble Pils.

Shipments and orders in-hand suggest that core shipments year-to-date through April 2010 will be up approximately 9% compared to the same period in 2009.  Actual shipments may differ and no inferences should be drawn with respect to shipments in future periods.  

Looking forward to 2010, based on information of which the Company is currently aware, the Company believes that the current competitive pricing environment is very challenging and has reduced its expectations for revenue per barrel increases.  The Company currently projects increases of between 1% and 2% through minor price optimizations, as the competitive environment permits, but there can be no assurances that the Company will be able to achieve the planned revenue per barrel increases.  The Company continues to forecast cost stability for packaging and ingredients and a continued improvement in operating costs at the Pennsylvania Brewery.  If successful, the Company could have full year 2010 gross margins of approximately 54%.  The Company intends to increase investment in its brands by between $5.0 million and $10.0 million in 2010 commensurate with the opportunities for growth that it sees, but there is no guarantee such increased investments will result in increased volumes.  Based upon the Company's best estimates at this time, the Company is targeting 2010 earnings per diluted share to be between $2.35 and $2.65, but actual results could vary significantly from this target.  The Company is committed to trying to grow market share and to maintain volume and healthy pricing, and is prepared to invest to accomplish this, even if this causes short term earnings decreases.

The Company is evaluating 2010 capital expenditures and, based on current information, its initial estimates are between $15.0 million and $25.0 million, most of which relate to continued investments in the Pennsylvania Brewery, as the Company pursues further efficiency initiatives and equipment upgrades.  The actual amount spent may well be different from these estimates as the Company continues to analyze its investment opportunities.  In addition, higher volumes than currently expected could require additional keg purchases that are not included in these estimates.

The Company expects that its cash balances as of December 26, 2009 of $55.5 million, along with future operating cash flow and the Company's unused line of credit of $50.0 million, will be sufficient to fund future anticipated cash requirements.  The Company continues to be in compliance with all of the covenants under its credit facility.

During the twelve months ended December 26, 2009, the Company repurchased approximately 209,000 shares of its Class A Common Stock for a total cost of $7.1 million.  From December 27, 2009 through March 5, 2010 the Company repurchased an additional 287,400 shares of its Class A Common Stock for a total cost of $13.5 million.  On March 4, 2010 the Board of Directors approved an increase of $25.0 million to the previously approved $140.0 million share buyback expenditure limit for a new limit of $165.0 million.  Through March 5, 2010, the Company has repurchased a cumulative total of approximately 9.0 million shares of its Class A Common Stock for an aggregate purchase price of $134.6 million.  The Company has approximately $30.4 million remaining on the $165.0 million share buyback expenditure limit set by the Board of Directors.  As of March 5, 2010, the Company had 9.9 million shares of Class A Common Stock and 4.1 million shares of Class B Common Stock outstanding.  

The Boston Beer Company began in 1984 with a generations-old family recipe that Founder and Brewer Jim Koch uncovered in his father's attic.  After bringing the recipe to life in his kitchen, Jim brought it to bars in Boston with the belief that drinkers would appreciate a complex, full-flavored beer, brewed fresh in America.  That beer was Samuel Adams Boston Lager®, and it helped catalyze what became known as the American craft beer revolution.  

Today, the Company brews more than 21 styles of beer.  The Company uses the traditional four vessel brewing process and often takes extra steps like dry-hopping and a secondary fermentation known as krausening.  It passionately pursues the development of new styles and the perfection of its classic beers by constantly searching for the world's finest ingredients.  While resurrecting traditional brewing methods, the Company has earned a reputation as a pioneer in another revolution, the "extreme beer" movement, where it seeks to challenge drinkers' perceptions of what beer can be.  The Boston Beer Company strives to elevate the image of American craft beer by entering festivals and competitions the world over, and in the past five years it has won more awards in international beer competitions than any other brewery in the world.  The Company remains independent, and brewing quality beer remains its single focus.  While the Company's products are the country's largest-selling craft beer family, they account for only about nine-tenths of one percent of the U.S. beer market.  For more information, please visit www.samueladams.com .

Statements made in this press release that state the Company's or management's intentions, hopes, beliefs, expectations or predictions of the future are forward-looking statements.  It is important to note that the Company's actual results could differ materially from those projected in such forward-looking statements.  Additional information concerning factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements is contained from time to time in the Company's SEC filings, including, but not limited to, the Company's report on Form 10-K for the years ended December 26, 2009 and December 27, 2008.  Copies of these documents may be found on the Company's website, www.bostonbeer.com, or obtained by contacting the Company or the SEC.

    
    
    
    
                         THE BOSTON BEER COMPANY, INC.
                               Financial Results
                                                                             
                                                                             
                                                                             
    Operating Results:                                                       
     (in thousands, except per share data) 
    
                                (unaudited)                (unaudited)        
                            Three Months Ended         Twelve Months Ended    
                        December 26,  December 27,  December 26,  December 27,
                               2009          2008          2009          2008
                               ----          ----          ----          ----
                                                                             
    Barrels sold                533           618         2,222         2,341
                                                                             
    Revenue, net of 
     product recall 
     returns of $13,222 
     for the twelve         
     months ended                                                       
     December 27, 2008     $117,479      $112,886      $453,446      $436,332
    Less excise taxes        10,291         9,109        38,393        37,932
                             ------         -----        ------        ------
        Net revenue         107,188       103,777       415,053       398,400
    Cost of goods sold       51,695        55,305       201,235       205,040
    Costs (recovery)                                                         
     associated with                                                         
     product recall               -           (73)            -         9,473
                                 --           ---            --         -----
        Gross profit         55,493        48,545       213,818       183,887
    Operating expenses:                                                      
      Advertising,                                                          
       promotional and                                                       
       selling expenses      31,768        31,652       121,560       132,901
      General and                                                           
       administrative                                                       
       expenses              10,342         8,971        36,938        34,988
      Impairment of                                                         
       long-lived                                                           
       assets                   496         1,936         1,049         1,936
                                ---         -----         -----         -----
        Total operating                                                      
         expenses            42,606        42,559       159,547       169,825
                             ------        ------       -------       -------
    Operating income         12,887         5,986        54,271        14,062
    Other income, net: 
      Interest income            27           288           112         1,604
      Other income                                                          
       (expense), net           (16)          (26)          (16)          174
                                ---           ---           ---           ---
        Total other                                                        
         income, net             11           262            96         1,778
                                 --           ---            --         -----
    Income before                                                            
     income taxes            12,898         6,248        54,367        15,840
    Income tax provision      5,438         2,651        23,249         7,752
                              -----         -----        ------         -----
        Net income           $7,460        $3,597       $31,118        $8,088
                             ======        ======       =======        ======
                                                                             
    Net income per                                                           
     common share -                                                          
     basic                    $0.53         $0.26         $2.21         $0.58
                              =====         =====         =====         =====
    Net income per                                                           
     common share -                                                          
     diluted                  $0.52         $0.25         $2.17         $0.56
                              =====         =====         =====         =====
                                                                             
    Weighted-average                                                         
     number of common                                                        
     shares - basic          14,075        14,039        14,059        13,927
                             ======        ======        ======        ======
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