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june 28, 2019 | Modern distillery Age Volume 10 | Number 21

U.S. Supreme Court Speaks: What We’re Drinking – Dan Dunn’s Celeb Interview Podcast Iancu v. Brunetti & The Author Dan Dunn’s new podcast is titled What We’re Drinking, and it’s Future of Indecent or produced by Starburns Audio and Starburns Industries, the studio behind Rick and Morty, HBO’s Animals and Anomalisa. Obscene Alcohol Beverage Labels Special to Modern Distillery Age by Richard M. Blau, Chair, Alcohol Beverage & Food Law Department, GrayRobinson, P.A. In 2017, the U.S. Supreme Court and the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit both invoked the First Amendment in separate cases to strike down certain federal trademark registration restrictions barring “scandalous and immoral” language. Those cases raised questions about whether similar federal alcohol laws barring such language from beverage labeling likewise violate the First Amendment. In a decision handed down on June 24, 2019, the U.S. Supreme Court revisited the government’s authority to restrict immoral and scandalous speech, balancing the government’s interest in barring such language under the federal Lanham Act against the protections afforded to those who speak it under the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. In the case of Iancu v. Brunetti, the Court once more ruled in favor The show has been dubbed “a fantabulous conflation of history, culture, of free speech and the First Amendment. continued on page 2 politics, famous people and booze, strained through the cognitive mesh of a best-selling author, polymath and inveterate reprobate.” “After so many years writing about drinking, it occurred to me that talking How Newer RTDs & about drinking might be fun too, and far less likely to cause carpal tunnel syndrome,” said Dunn. “What We’re Drinking is the culmination of a life spent Packages Are Shaking Up perched on barstools, studying booze, dreaming about booze, drinking the Adult Beverage Market booze and dropping the names of famous people I know.” Special to Modern Distillery Age from Nielsen, www.nielsen.com In the first episode, Dunn and long-time collaborator Zane Lamprey (Four To be a consumer today is a glorious thing. Sheets, Drinking Made Easy) take a dive into the Harvey Wallbanger, exploring Innovation is everywhere and the abundance of the 1960s “fern ” favorite’s surprising, long-time connection to American choice has never been so plentiful. For brands, electoral politics. however, staying top of mind and in shoppers’ baskets Future shows will feature Walton Goggins, Aisha Tyler, Tiffani Amber- amid this proliferation of choice has never been more Thiessen, Maynard James Keenan, Sammy Hagar, Steven Soderbergh, Dan challenging. And looking across consumer packaged Harmon, Oliver Cooper, Phil Rosenthal, Kevin Alejandro, Alexis Ohanian, Harry goods (CPG) categories, few could be considered Lennix, Adam Carolla and Joel Stein. as jam-packed with competition as the adult What We’re Drinking is available on iTunes, Stitcher, Spotify and other beverage category. platforms with new episodes every Tuesday. Unfortunately for most alcohol brands, Americans Dunn hosted Dan Dunn’s on SiriusXM and Drinky Fun Time on 21 and older aren’t increasing their overall alcohol Starburns Audio. He’s the author of several books including American Wino: intake each year the way they’re adding to their intake A Tale of Reds, Whites and One Man’s Blues (Dey Street Books, 2016), and It’s of media from a myriad of platforms and devices. That Always Sunny in Philadelphia: The 7 Secrets of Awakening the Highly Effective means growth is often elusive-unless you’re thinking Four-Hour Giant, Today (Dey Street Books, 2015). In 2012, Dunn co-wrote and outside the bottle and paying close attention to consumer desires. produced (along with Rob McElhenney of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia) continued on page 2 continued on page 2 three-tier system being paramount to the and -based now account for What We’re Drinkingcontinued from page 1 creation of the safest alcohol market in the $4.7 million in annual sales. the half-hour Fox comedy Living world. America’s system of beverage alcohol Spirit- and -based “ready-to-drink Loaded, based on Dunn’s book, starring regulation continues to be a global standard cocktails” are generally available in smaller Donald Sutherland and Larry Wilmore. — offering consumers unparalleled safety size packages; they’re also more established He’s a former staff writer for the series Talk and selection, ensuring cost-effective and and generate larger sales ($62 million and Soup and freelance joke writer for SNL’s efficient tax collection, guarding against $83 million in annual sales, respectively). Weekend Update. His writing has appeared counterfeit alcohol and illegal markets, And while spirit- and wine-based ready in GQ, Vanity Fair, Esquire, USA Today, Maxim, fostering competition and promoting to drink sales aren’t skyrocketing LA Weekly, Newsday, Magazine social responsibility. the way malt-based cocktail sales are, they and the LA Times. He’s currently a contributor “The decision of the Supreme Court to are growing exceptionally well. They both to Robb Report and The Daily Beast. strike down Tennessee’s right to enforce posted sales growth close to 40% higher return to page 1 durational residency laws for licensees in the latest 52 weeks compared with sales erodes the 21st Amendment and primary from a year ago. state authority. Since alcohol is unlike any Ready-to-drink growth is also led by Iancu v. Brunetti st continued from page 1 other consumer good, the 21 Amendment brands experimenting with new and Justice Kagan delivered the majority was enacted to give states authority to interesting that haven’t historically opinion in which five other justices joined, regulate alcohol as they see fit, and that been available away from the bar. Within with accompanying concurrences and authority remains broad. In exercising that hard seltzers, for example, the top is concurring/dissenting opinions authored authority, states have enacted the three-tier actually the “assorted” option, indicating by several other justices. In ruling that the system to promote accountability, public that a large portion of consumers are eager Lanham Act’s prohibition on registration of safety, and economic competition. The for flavor choice. immoral or scandalous trademarks violates vast majority of state alcohol laws are not Beyond the Bottle the First Amendment, the Court made impacted by this ruling.” Importantly, the ready-to-drink the clear point that government is not trend has broadened the scope for how entitled to exercise a “viewpoint bias” that RTDs & Packages alcoholic beverages have traditionally been allows the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office continued from page 1 contained. Specifically, cans, boxes and Tetra (USPTO) to refuse registration of trademarks Ready-To-Drink Is Tomorrow’s Off- Paks are steadily growing as popular vessels communicating “immoral” or “scandalous” Premise Growth Driver for ready-to-drink adult beverages. Cans, in views about (among other things) drug use, While price is likely the most well- particular, are performing particularly well. religion, and terrorism, while approving established purchase driver across the In the craft category, cans now registration of marks expressing more CPG space, convenience often runs a close account for just over 36% of dollar sales, up socially-accepted views on the same topics. second. And from a retail perspective, it’s an 25.4 percentage points since the 52 weeks Read all about it in Attorney Blau’s attribute that’s boosting sales in categories ended April 25, 2015. In terms of dollar analysis here. that previously weren’t very convenient. sales, canned craft is now an $820 million return to page 1 Think about your favorite martini, sub-category, up from $436 million back in or perhaps a particular variation of the April 2015. But cans are no longer just for WSWA Statement on . To get one — and a good beer. There are now 22 wine brands that one — you’ve traditionally had to rely on a can 386 different wine items and generate Supreme Court Ruling good mixologist. Today, however, ready-to- more than $81 million in annual sales. A year Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America drink adult beverages are freeing consumers ago, canned wine accounted for about $46 (WSWA) released a statement from from the confines of their favorite watering million in annual sales. President and CEO Michelle Korsmo on holes, giving them the same freedom that When it comes to occasions, single-serve, this week’s decision by the U.S. Supreme beer drinkers have enjoyed for decades. ready-to-drink cocktails are tapping into Court on Tennessee Wine & Spirits Retailers Newer alternative packaging — cans, boxes, an easy way to quench consumers when Association v. Blair. Tetra Pak, etc. — are playing a role as well, they’re relaxing, unwinding, hitting the “For more than eight decades, states have as they provide for more convenient and beach, cooking outside and many other had the power under the 21st Amendment to portable options. opportunities when they’re away from enact laws governing beverage alcohol that And that freedom will lead to growing their favorite bar or restaurant or outside of benefit and protect their citizens. This model sales in the ready-to-drink cocktail space, their home. regulatory structure has created a thriving because consumers rank it highest among Looking across generations, we see marketplace for the beverage alcohol the factors driving purchase intent. younger adults gravitating toward ready- industry that promotes social responsibility But the ready-to-drink realm isn’t just for to-drink cocktails at social gatherings in America. cocktails. In fact, the ready-to-drink space is and outdoor activities. And as summer “Although WSWA disagrees with the boosting sales across all alcohol beverage approaches, outdoor picnics, the beach/ outcome of today’s Supreme Court ruling, categories, with the emerging malt-based pool and while traveling/on vacation we agree with the Court that the promotion cocktail segment leading the pack in growth. are popular ready-to-drink occasions of public health and safety is a primary Annual sales in this segment are up 574%, among all consumers (32%, 28% and function of alcohol regulation, with the 23%, respectively). continued on page 3 2 june 28, 2019 | Modern Distillery Age RTDs & Packages continued from page 2 Consumers are looking for convenience, and ready-to-drink cocktails provide GIVING DAD A BOURBON consumers with something they’ve THAT I ACTUALLY MADE THE MASH FOR? historically had to be at a bar or restaurant to enjoy. These newer alcohol segments are providing expansion opportunities within the broader alcohol category, manifested in multiple ways: • New entrepreneurial companies are introducing their brands to the market • Existing companies are acquiring other brand(s) • Existing brands in single alcohol segments are extending their name recognition into newer segments to try and become a “power” brand. Across the board, however, the common bond for success is standing out from the crowd and meeting changing consumer needs. return to page 1 ATCHISON, KS | LAWRENCEBURG, IN

Zamora Goes with We’re proud to share our partners’ passion for SGWS quality. Especially when sharing it with loved ones. Zamora Company USA, the new MGPINGREDIENTS.COM/ALC OHOL joint venture based in Dallas owned by Zamora Company (Spain) and Old Nassau and Business Development for Southern Imports (U.S.) has signed with Southern Glazer’s. “Only Southern Glazer’s, with our Glazer Wine & Spirits to represent Zamora national footprint, could provide the type Company USA’s spirits and wine portfolio in of alignment and scale Zamora Company 41 U.S. markets. USA requires as they increase their focus on growing their business in the U.S. We couldn’t be more excited to work together and help them take advantage of the enormous growth opportunity that exists for luxury spirits and wine in this market.” “The U.S. is one of the most important markets for Zamora Company, now and in the future,” added Emilio Restoy, Global CEO 203-971-8710 and Managing Director, Zamora Company. [email protected] “We want to become a relevant player in www.distilleryage.com the wine and spirits industry in the U.S., and EDITORIAL STAFF that means investing in and betting on the Publisher/Editor: Gregg Glaser Zamora Company manages the sales, creation of our brands.” Copy Editor: Roberts Blackwood distribution, execution and marketing “This agreement with Southern Glazer’s SUBSCRIPTIONS of Licor43, Double Cross , Yellow will allow us to better face our challenges $195.oo a year for ~45 issues Rose Whiskey, Martin Miller’s and and leverage opportunities in this exciting [email protected] Lolea . yet complex market,” said Bill Corbett, MAILING ADDRESS “After bringing all their brands under CEO Zamora Company USA. “With this 228 Silvermine Avenue one umbrella entity in the U.S., Zamora partnership, we intend for the U.S. to become Norwalk, CT 06850-2032 Company USA needed a distribution partner a key sales market in the near future. It will All content Copyright © Modern take time and it will not be easy, but we are that could deliver the most efficient route- Distillery Age, 2019 — Copies may not to-market,” said Ray Lombard, Executive sure that we have chosen the right partner be sent to others & issues may not be Vice President, Supplier Management for this endeavor.” posted to websites.

3 june 28, 2019 | Modern Distillery Age “DISCUS and Responsibility.org will Following a public consultation DISCUS & remain separate organizations with separate conducted by the Department for the boards and individual identities and Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Responsibility.org missions,” according to a statement. “Both (DEFRA), the amendment to the Senior Leadership will continue to share a common purpose: Technical File gives specific guidance to build upon and advance their members’ on the range of casks which can be used to Appointments longstanding commitment to responsibility. mature or finish . Chris Swonger, President and CEO of the Both organizations are poised to maximize The Scotch Whisky Technical File is used Distilled Spirits Council of the their respective strengths with a skilled by Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (DISCUS), and Responsibility.org today and experienced team that provides both (HMRC) to ensure compliance with the announced several key senior leadership continuity and a focus on the dynamic main requirements for Scotch Whisky and appointments following the alignment of future of the distilled spirits industry. is essential for maintaining Scotch Whisky’s the two organizations. “Many Americans want to enjoy the Geographical Indication status. The Senior Leadership Team consists of: richness of the ‘cocktail culture’ and The amendment to the technical file has • Courtney Armour, Chief Legal Officer, celebrate life’s best occasions responsibly,” been lodged with the European Commission DISCUS & Responsibility.org added Swonger, “while also keeping drunk by DEFRA and is now law. • Adrian Baxter, Chief Financial Officer, drivers off our roads and alcohol out of kids’ “This amendment provides clarity and DISCUS & Responsibility.org hands. These principles are complementary some additional flexibility on the range • Sarah Fitzmaurice, Chief, Resource endeavors and position the distilled spirits of casks in which Scotch Whisky can be Planning & Management, DISCUS & industry for the future. We are elevating matured,” said Karen Betts, Chief Executive Responsibility.org the strongest aspects of each organization of the Scotch Whisky Association. The • Leslie Kimball Chief, Branding while preserving the independent nature change is consistent with Scotch Whisky’s & Communications, DISCUS & of Responsibility.org. Under Dr. Ben heritage and traditions and strengthens our Responsibility.org Nordstrom’s leadership as Executive Director, foundations into the future.” • Christine LoCascio, Chief, Public it will maintain a core team dedicated solely “The global reputation for the quality Policy, DISCUS to its missions.” and origin of Scotch Whisky has been built • Ben Nordstrom, M.D., Ph.D. Executive Nordstrom is a Board-Certified addiction over many decades, aided by strong legal Director, Responsibility.org psychiatrist and former President and CEO protection,” added Alan Park, SWA Director • Eric Reller, Chief, Strategic Initiatives, of Phoenix House. He joined Responsibility. of Legal Affairs. “The legal requirements DISCUS org this past April. are vital to protecting the reputation and • Dr. Sam Zakhari, Chief, Science & Lynne Omlie, Senior Vice President, quality of the world’s premier spirit, which Health, DISCUS General Counsel, and Corporate Secretary, millions around the world know and love. DISCUS will continue to benefit from the will continue to serve in this role through A wide range of wine, beer and spirit casks expertise of veteran DISCUS leaders Lynne mid-September. Omlie will then transition have been used over the years to mature Omlie, Frank Coleman and Mark Gorman, to a Senior Advisor role to support the Scotch Whisky, and clarity about what is who will serve as Senior Advisors to Swonger. onboarding of the new Chief Legal Officer, allowed under the law should be provided As more closely aligned organizations, and she will continue to advise the President in the Scotch Whisky Technical File. The DISCUS will continue to focus on advocacy, and CEO. Frank Coleman and Mark Gorman amendment is consistent with the continued and Responsibility.org will continue to now serve as Senior Advisors, providing use of all those categories of casks where lead the fight to eliminate drunk driving, strategic guidance to the President and CEO. there is evidence of longstanding traditional underage drinking and to promote “We are grateful to still be able to call on use in the industry. But it will also create responsible consumption. DISCUS and the experience and knowledge of Lynne, more flexibility, particularly in the range of Responsibility.org will leverage core Mark and Frank,” said Swonger. “These spirits casks which can be used, subject to enterprise service functions to support both dedicated professionals are titans in the a number of safeguards which protect the organizations in operations, membership, industry having spearheaded win after win reputation of Scotch Whisky.” human resources, communications, legal for greater market access opportunities that and finance. have enabled spirits companies of all sizes Scotch Whisky “DISCUS is now even better positioned to to flourish. Each will continue to play an advocate for the interests of large, medium important role in support of DISCUS’ mission Tourism Increases and small distillers and brand owners” said to drive further market share growth and Scotch Whisky tourism saw record Swonger. “We are also fully invested in cultural acceptance for distilled spirits.” numbers of visitors in 2018, with over two working closely with our distributor, Control million visits to Scotch Whisky distilleries State and retail partners to find common Scotch Whisky Rules from tourists for the first time. ground on important issues for the spirits The annual survey compiled by the industry. Building upon the spirits’ sector’s Amended Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) revealed ninth consecutive year of growth, DISCUS The legal requirements for Scotch Whisky visits were up 6.1% year on year and 56% is well prepared to seize new opportunities have been be amended to broaden the more than in 2010. continued on page 5 and meet the challenges of a quickly types of casks allowed for maturation. evolving spirits marketplace.”

4 june 28, 2019 | Modern Distillery Age during the past 12 months. Alabama (11.2%), when Hpnotiq first stepped onto the scene Scotch Whisky Iowa (8.7%), Idaho (7.9%), Montgomery and solidified itself as a pop culture, hip- Tourism Increases County Maryland (4.1%), Mississippi (8.8%), hop and nightlife icon,” according to a continued from page 4 North Carolina (10.8%), Ohio(9.7%), Oregon company statement. The survey also showed spending (7.0%), Pennsylvania (6.0%), Virginia (10.1%) As part of the campaign, Hpnotiq has at visitor centers was up by 12.2% to and Vermont(5.3%) reported growth rates released a limited-edition bottle featuring £68.3 million, and additional £7.4 million exceeding their 12-month trends. Maine the original Hpnotiq logo and blue compared with 2017 and 154% more than (5.2%), Michigan (3.3%), Montana (-2.4%), hue from Hpnotiq in early 2000s hip-hop in 2010, a result of the continued industry New Hampshire (2.8%), Utah (4.4%), West videos and nightlife venues. investment in tourist centers. Virginia (5.5%) and Wyoming (-2.1%) grew A 375-ml bottle sells for about $14 (50-ml Over 20 different nationalities visited shelf dollars at rates lagging their 12-month bottles are also available). distilleries last year, with Germany and trends. Shelf dollars in the Control States are Hpnotiq will also release a comedic the U.S. providing the largest number of up 6.9% year-to-date compared to 6.5% last “OG” video series campaign imagining Fat Scotch Whisky tourists. Increased visits year-to-date. Joe as the brand’s Creative Director. In the from France, Spain and the Netherlands Price/Mix for May is 2.9%, an improvement series, Fat Joe shows how he’d run Hpnotiq’s were also reported, as well as India and upon April’s 2.2%. headquarters including everything from China. Collectively, Scotch Whisky distilleries , with 2% share of the nine- experimenting with Hpnotiq Summer remain the third most visited attraction liter case Control States spirits market, was cocktails in the R&D lab to helping record in . May’s fastest growing category with 10.8% the company voicemail. Fat Joe will also take “We’re delighted that Scotch Whisky reported and a 12-month trend of 11.4%. over the brand’s social media and create distilleries have become such popular places Domestic Whiskey, with 15% share, reported custom cocktails for the brand such as The to visit,” said Karen Betts, Scotch Whisky 8.5% growth and a 5.4% 12-month trend. Don Cartagena and The Incredible @#$*&^. Association Chief Executive. “The growing Vodka, with 35% share, grew during the number of visitors to distilleries reflects in same periods at 4.4% and 2.7%, respectively. Heaven Hill Brands’ part the growth in in / (4.6%), Canadian Whiskey general, and people coming to Scotland (2.8%), Cordials (3.4%), Domestic Whiskey of the Year want to see our local crafts and sample (8.5%), Gin (0.3%), Rum (0.6%), Scotch (0.1%) our local food and drink. But it also reflects and Vodka (4.4%) grew at rates exceeding Competition a growing curiosity about Scotch Whisky. their 12-month trends, while Cocktails (-0.2), Justin Ware, General Manager and Today’s consumers want to understand Irish Whiskey (10.8%) and (7.0%) Bartender at Johnny’s Gold Brick in Houston, and experience how their favorite blends grew at rates lagging theirs. as well as three-time Bartender of the Year and are made, to meet the people semifinalist, is the 2019 Bartender of the Year who make them and to see which part and the recipient of $15,000 in the Heaven of Scotland’s beautiful landscape they Hpnotiq “OG” Hill Brands and .com 2019 Bartender call home.” of the Year competition. He won with his Campaign cocktail called International Anthem. Heaven Hill Brands has created a new “OG” NABCA May Control campaign and limited-edition bottle release for Hpnotiq (17% ABV) in collaboration Results with hip-hop performer Joseph “Fat Joe” During May, nine-liter Control States Cartagena. Hpnotiq is a blend of fruit , spirits case sales grew 4.2% over same French Cognac and vodka. period sales last year despite an impressive 8% comp. Alabama (9.9%), Iowa (5.1%), Idaho (6.1%), Montgomery County Maryland (2.6%), Maine (3.8%), Mississippi (5.0%), North Carolina (7.3%), Ohio (6.2%), Oregon (5.6%), Pennsylvania (1.8%), Utah (3.9%), Virginia (6.6%) and West Virginia (3.9%) reported monthly growth rates for May exceeding their 12-month trends. Michigan (0.9%), Montana (-4.1%), New Hampshire Justin Ware (1.7%), Vermont (1.7%), and Wyoming (0.0%) grew at rates that fell short of their 12-month The competition was a three part trends. Control State rolling 12-month beverage program challenge, followed by a volume growth, 3.0%, slipped from April’s surprise classic cocktail round. Competitors reported 3.3%. Spirits volumes grew 4.3% had 30 minutes to present a new bar concept with three cocktails representative year-to-date compared to 3.8% a year ago. “The collaboration pays homage to the of a well-rounded menu with clear vision for Control State spirits shelf dollars grew brand’s roots and taps into consumers’ continued on page 6 at 7.1% during May while trending at 5.9% love for the nostalgic era of the early 2000s

5 june 28, 2019 | Modern Distillery Age Heaven Hill Brands’ Caorunn Gin’s “10 Cocktails with a Kara Newman has written Cocktails with Bartender of the Year Year Switch” Cocktail a Twist (Chronicle Books, hardcover, 200 pages, $19.95). Competition continued from page 5 Competition Caorunn is celebrating its tenth The book includes 21 classic recipes and the bar. All cocktails needed to fit together in anniversary with the “10 Year Switch” 141 cocktails in total. Each chapter is based terms of service style and concept, but also International Cocktail Competition. U.S. on a classic cocktail (such as the ), represent three different types of drinks, bartending finalists will compete to and inside the gatefolds are riffs: for each of which highlights and showcases switch countries with U.K. counterparts example, swapping Irish whiskey for to Heaven Hill’s portfolio. Scoring was based this summer. make a Blackthorn or substituting Amaro for on use and understanding of Heaven Hill to make a Black Manhattan. brands, deliciousness and appeal of drinks, coherence and viability of menu concept, functionally and economically as well as presentation, technical skills and demeanor. After presenting their bar concept, each contestant was then asked to create a classic cocktail in under three minutes to show their skill on the fly. More than 1,000 original cocktail recipes using Domaine de Canton French Ginger , Elijah Craig Small Batch Following a countrywide search to Bourbon, PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur, identify the most talented , Rittenhouse Rye Whisky, Rouge five have been named as U.S. finalists. Aperitif, Sacred Bond Brandy or Lunazul The winning U.S. bartender will have an Tequila were submitted online nationwide opportunity to switch countries with his beginning September 15, 2018. Forty-eight or her winning U.K. counterpart and work There are also tips on keeping a well- semifinalists competed in Los Angeles, guest shifts at a top bar to experience British stocked bar, garnishing drinks and throwing Miami, Nashville, Austin, Chicago, Denver, cocktail culture firsthand. a party. and San Francisco from January The U.S. finalists set to compete at the Newman is Spirits Editor at through end of April. The top contestant international finals on July 31 in New York Wine Enthusiast magazine and the author from each region moved onto the finals. City are: of Shake. Stir. Sip. and Nightcap. She lives in The judges were Lynn House, National • Chris Bidmead from Blue Quarter in New . Brand Educator for Heaven Hill Brands; York City with 5 From Home Jeffrey Morgenthaler, Bar Manager of Clyde • Jacee Coelho from Travelle at The Common and Pépé Le Moko; Joaquín Simó, Jose Cuervo “Father Of Langham in Chicago with Pure owner/bartender of Pouring Ribbons; Berry.3. Tequila” Campaign and Harrison Ginsberg, 2018 Bartender of • Scott Jenkins from Hide Bar in Dallas with Jose Cuervo has created the “Father Of the Year. Standard Tequila” campaign to showcase Jose Cuervo The following bartenders competed in • Caitlyn Moorhead from The Winslow in Tradicional, created in 1795, and the ten the 2019 Bartender of the Year Finals: New York City with Gincident Report generations of the Cuervo family. • Chris Olivier from The Tasting Room The multi-year, multimillion-dollar at Rock Brothers in Tampa with campaign focuses on heritage and Caorunn Calling provenance and includes TV, digital and The international finals in New York City experiential activations. Consumers can will include five bartenders each from the experience that history first-hand by U.S. and the U.K. They will be judged by a traveling to Mexico and taking a luxury Jose panel led by Ryan Chetiyawardana (a.k.a. Cuervo Express train from Guadalajara to the “Mr. Lyan”), founder of Dandelyan and Cub town of Tequila and visiting La Rojeña, the and an influential bartender; Caorunn Gin oldest distillery in Latin America. Master Simon Buley; and cocktail expert Gaz Jose Cuervo worked with advertising Regan. One winner will be chosen from each agency Crispin Porter + Bogusky to create the country. The winners will also have their campaign, leading with 15- and 30-second cocktail named as Caorunn’s signature serve TV spots, which will air throughout the year. in bars across their respective country.

6 june 28, 2019 | Modern Distillery Age Cocalero Clásico Intrepid Spirits has released Cocalero Clásico (29% ABV), described as a botanical spirit, which was first released internationally in 2013 and was tested last summer in Atlanta.

Highland Park Gran Smoky Patrón Tequila has expanded Søren distribution nationally for Gran Patrón In July, Edrington will release Highland Smoky (50.5% ABV). Park Søren (40.5% ABV), a 26-year-old whisky inspired by Danish photographer The brand name pays homage to Søren Solkær. It will be sold with a 1,609- cocaleros, the traditional coca leaf farmers page photography book celebrating in the Andes Mountains who have been Solkær’s career, which spans 26 years. He’s cultivating the crop for its medicinal best known for his portraits of musicians properties for centuries. They are an including Björk, The White Stripes, Franz essential part of the heritage and history Ferdinand, David Lynch, The Arctic of the area where the coca leaf is an Monkeys, R.E.M. and U2. He’s worked intrinsic part of the lifestyle and is used as with the , Scotland-based distillery a natural remedy for altitude sickness, to since 2016. combat hunger and to promote energy and stamina. Cocalero Clásico is infused with a proprietary recipe of 17 natural botanicals and herbs including coca leaf, juniper, The is roasted in an older method guarana, orange peel, ginseng, ginger, using mesquite for about seven days in green and lavender. A specialized small underground stone pits. The cooked steam process pioneered by agave is then crushed with a volcanic stone the perfume industry is used to extract the tahona wheel to extract the and flavor of the coca leaf and the essential oils agave fibers, which are fermented in pine from the blend of plants. wood fermenters. Distilling takes place A 750-ml bottle sells for about $25, Highland Park Søren aged primarily in with small-capacity copper pot stills. and Cocalero Clásico is currently available -seasoned American and first-fill A 750-ml bottle sells for about $200. in seven states with national distribution bourbon . A 750-ml bottle will sell planned by the end of the year. for about $640. Cocalero Clásico is distilled in , and many of the botanicals come from South America. Later this year or next, Intrepid Spirits will release another Cocalero expression distilled in La Paz, Bolivia, at the highest distillery in the world.

7 june 28, 2019 | Modern Distillery Age Heaven Hill King of Maison Augier Distillery Bottled- Bourbon Goes with 375 Park Brown-Forman has released the second in-Bond Bourbon edition of King of Kentucky Bourbon Avenue Spirits In October, Heaven Hill Distillery in (65.65%), aged 15 years. The mash bill is Maison Augier has chosen 375 Kentucky will release Heaven Hill 7-Year- 79% corn, 11% rye and 10% . Park Avenue Spirits as its exclusive U.S. Old Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Straight importer, effective July 1. (50% ABV). “We’re thrilled to be welcoming Maison Augier to the 375 Park Avenue Spirits family and in doing so adding another exceptional brand with a storied history to our ever growing stable of highly awarded brands,” said Jason Schladenhauffen, President and CEO of 375 Park Avenue Spirits. “The Cognac category has experienced a tremendous resurgence over the last five years in the U.S. market, and we believe the Maison Augier brand is well positioned to help us capitalize on this growth given its distinguished roots and unique style.” King of Kentucky was established in 1881 as a Kentucky Straight Bourbon The Distilled Spirits Plant (D.S.P) number Whiskey. Brown-Forman acquired the of the Bernheim Distillery in Louisville, brand in 1936 from Selected Kentucky Ky., D.S.P.-KY-1, and that of the Heaven Distillers and, by 1940, converted it to a Hill headquarters and bottling house in until it was discontinued Bardstown, Ky., D.S.P-KY-31, are featured in 1968. In 2018, Brown-Forman prominently on the face label. revived the label paying homage to the The front label prominently features brand’s past. “Bottled-in-Bond” across the top, an King of Kentucky is now an annual, on- embossed “Heaven Hill” in the middle going periodic release of a single along with an illustration of Old Heaven inventory featuring a barrel-strength, Hill Springs distillery, the distillery first minimally-filtered bourbon with each used in 1935, and the phrase “This Bourbon release and every barrel different. is 7 Years Old” is on the bottom. A gold foil, A 750-ml bottle sells for about $250, embossed Heaven Hill Distillery medallion and about 2,000 bottles are available. Each Augier, “the world’s oldest Cognac is featured on the bottom label, the same bottle will tell the story of its origin through House,” according to a press statement, emblem that marked the Heaven Hill details on the front and back labels. All was founded by wine merchant Philippe 27-Year-Old Bottled-in-Bond packaging. will be filled, bottled, wax-dipped and Augier in 1643 at the beginning of the th The back label includes the historic numbered by hand with details including reign of Louis XIV. In the 19 and early th tagline: “The Best of the Great Kentucky proof, age, warehouse location, lot 20 centuries, the Augier House chose to Bourbons,” along with the history of the number, serial number and barrel number, limit production, becoming increasingly namesake brand. all selected by Master Distiller Chris Morris. specialized in the trade for precious eaux- A 750-ml bottle will sell for about $40, de-vie. At that time, the House supplied and the bourbon will be first released in France’s noble families and embassies October in , Texas, New York, abroad, including Marquis de Vaudreuil, Georgia, Florida, Illinois, South Carolina, governor of French Louisiana in the mid- and Colorado. 18th century. “I am delighted by this new partnership with 375 Park Avenue Spirits,” said Bruno Gazaniol, Director at Maison Augier. “This heritage of savoir-faire and excellency embodied in the pursuit of typicality and the respect for local terroirs and grapes are core values that we share with 375 continued on page 10

8 june 28, 2019 | Modern Distillery Age In this new role, Spence will have P&L Maison Augier Marc Bromfeld responsibility for Beam ’s largest Goes with 375 Park global brands, and she’ll work closely – Chairman, with the region presidents to lead the Avenue Spirits company’s global premiumization agenda. continued from page 10 Responsibility.org In addition to end-to-end global brand Park Avenue Spirits. Maison Augier has The Board of Directors of Responsibility. strategy, development and performance, assembled a group of passionate people, org has appointed Marc Bromfeld, Director Spence will lead global innovation and from our master to wine grower of Corporate Affairs, Social Responsibility product R&D; emerging marketing partners, with both creative flair and love of and Charitable Giving at Edrington technologies, tools and platforms; and the terroir. Each one uses their knowledge Americas, its new Chairman. integrated marketing communications and instincts to uncover the wealth and and design. diversity of the Cognac appellation. This is precisely the ambition we share with our long-term partner 375 Park Avenue Spirits, and the great mission we have set to achieve in the U.S. I am convinced that this partnership with a very professional team will contribute to accelerate and energize even more the dynamic cognac category and strengthen the presence of our Maison in the U.S.” Beginning this summer, Maison Augier will be available nationally. The line includes L’Océanique (40.1%), Le Singulier (41.7%) and Le Sauvage (40.8%). A 750-ml bottle Marc Bromfeld of each sells from $50-$70. All are blended from a limited selection of eaux-de-vie that Rick Wilson, Senior Vice President Jessica Spence are the product of a single grape, a single of Corporate Responsibility at Bacardí, Spence will join in terroir and a distillation method tailored will serve as Vice Chairman. Bromfeld October and will report to Albert Baladi, to match. and Wilson assumed their positions at the Responsibility.org board meeting in President & CEO of Beam Suntory. early June. Spence joined Carlsberg in 2012, and Brent Wunder – SVP Bromfeld and Wilson have been she currently leads Carlsberg’s global actively involved in responsibility efforts marketing, sales, insights, R&D and North America Sales, over the past decade. Edrington was innovation functions. She previously created from a trust designed to improve served as Carlsberg’s Senior Vice President Sea Spirits Commercial based in Copenhagen and in Hawaii Sea Spirits, makers of Ocean social welfare. Bromfeld is responsible senior commercial and marketing roles for Organic Vodka, has appointed Brent for $2 billion of charitable giving and is Carlsberg Asia based in Hong Kong. Prior Wunder as Senior Vice President of North personally involved with several charitable to joining Carlsberg in 2012, Spence held America Sales. He has 20 years of industry organizations such as Clean Ocean Action, marketing roles of increasing responsibility experience with Constellation Brands, Covenant House, Creature Comfort Pet for SABMiller in Russia, Slovakia and Poland, Pernod and Rémy Cointreau. Therapy, CASA and InterFaith Food Pantry as well as in business development based Wunder will be responsible for sales team of the Oranges. Bromfeld has 25 years of in . She has prior experience with leadership, driving revenue, program marketing, brand development and brand global advertising agencies Leo Burnett development and contributing to overall education experience. and J Walter Thompson. business growth strategy. Spence is a graduate of Cambridge Wunder will develop and implement Jessica Spence – University, the London School of Economics go-to-market strategies to increase & Political Science (post-graduate diploma) distribution, strengthen customer President of Brands, and INSEAD (MBA). relationships and support, leverage Beam Suntory channel opportunity and maintain trade Beam Suntory has appointed Jessica practice compliance. Spence to be the company’s first President of Brands. Spence will join Beam Suntory from Carlsberg Group, where she is currently Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer.

9 june 28, 2019 | Modern Distillery Age Tatum will work closely with Master sphere award and a monetary donation to Chef Marita Swift – Blender Dixon Dedman on strategy, brand benefit the organization’s charity of choice. Culinary Director, development, production, packaging, The Brown-Forman Alcohol Responsibility bottling and quality control, and he’ll Award was created to recognize the work of J. Rieger & Co. report to Stoli Group USA President and distributor and brokers in the area of alcohol The new J. Rieger & Co. distillery in CEO Rudy Costello. responsibility. Breakthru Beverage Group Kansas City, Missouri, will open on July 12, Jim Beam Noe will consult on Stoli’s received the award for the third year in a and Chef Marita Swift has been appointed Kentucky Owl Park distillery and tourism row. Breakthru received a commemorative as Culinary Director. She’ll oversee culinary facility. Noe comes from the Jim Beam plaque and a monetary donation to operations for the distillery’s full-service Heritage Center and Visitors’ Experience. benefit the organization of its choice that bar and lounge spaces: The Monogram addresses alcohol-related harm or promotes Lounge and The Hey! Hey! Club, as well as Brown-Forman responsible consumption. special events. Distributor & Broker Awards Brown-Forman recently announced its fiscal year 2019 Distributor of the Year and Broker of the Year awards. The Distributor of the Year awards were recognized during the company’s annual Distributor Growth Conference in Louisville, Ky., on May 16. The Footprint L-R: Johnny Manuel, L-R: Johnny Manuel, Brown-Forman & Eric Phiel, Brown-Forman & Simone Division Distributor of the Year award went Breakthru Beverage Group Bianconcini, Republic National Distributing Co., to Breakthru Beverage Group, Florida, the Kentucky Prime Division Distributor of the Year to Republic National Distributing Company, Kentucky, and the Select Division Distributor Marita Swift of the Year to Athens Distributing, Tennessee. The third annual Brown-Forman Alcohol Most recently, Swift was Executive Chef Responsibility Award was presented to at the former Californos in the historic Breakthru Beverage Group, South Carolina. Westport neighborhood of Kansas City. The Broker of the Year awards were She has curated menus for more than a recognized during the NABCA Annual thousand weddings, catered within the Conference in Marco Island, Fla., on May Kansas City business sector, conducted 19. The Heavyweight Division Broker of coursework in the culinary arts and been L-R: Johnny Manuel, L-R: Johnny Manuel, the Year award went to Republic National Brown-Forman & Jackie Brown-Forman & Tim featured on several live cooking segments. Aaron, Athens Distributing, Daning, Breakthru Distributing Company, North Carolina, and Tennessee, President & CEO Beverage Group, South the Middleweight Division Broker of the Year Carolina, VP Stoli Group USA to Mountain State Beverage, West Virginia. Distributor of the Year awards are Appointments presented annually to the leading distributor Stoli Group USA has announced two partners in the Footprint, Select and Prime key appointments to bolster its Kentucky markets, categorized by size. The Broker of Owl brand. the Year awards are arranged similarly into Lee Tatum is the new Managing the Heavyweight and Middleweight broker Director of Kentucky Owl. He joins Stoli partners in the Control States network. with over 25 years of experience in the Awards are based on business performance spirits business, having been Vice President measures including volume attainment and Director of Portfolio Innovation at goals, distribution criteria and other brand- Brown-Forman working on Slane Irish building activities during the company’s L-R: Tim Rutledge, Brown-Forman; Meagan Whiskey, King of Kentucky and Cooper’s fiscal year ending April 30, 2019. Pierce, Mountain State Beverage, West Craft. At Brown-Forman, Tatum was also Virginia State Manager; Johnny Manuel, Breakthru Beverage Group, Florida, Brown-Forman & Scott Parkes, Mountain State Chief of Staff to the CEO/Chairman and Beverage, West Virginia Republic National Distributing Company, Vice Chairman, Vice President/Director of Kentucky, Athens Distributing, Tennessee, Business Development and New Brand Republic National Distributing Company, Development as well as working in other North Carolina and Mountain State Beverage, management positions. West Virginia each received a hand-painted

10 june 28, 2019 | Modern Distillery Age Modern Distillery Age Tasting Panel In this week’s tasting panel, we have notes on a honey whiskey, a citrus mint vodka & an aged in Australian barrels. All spirits are tasted blind. The panelists know only the style and ABV. The notes are a distillation of the panelists’ comments. The panelists vary with each panel but often include: Tom Jensen (Millstone Spirits), Dave Schmier (Independent Spirits Expo), David Talbot (Ultimate Beverage Challenge), John Henry (El Buho ), John Heffernan (Senior Master of Whisky), Renzo Kian-Kubota (Harry’s Wine & Liquor Market), Olie Berlic (spirits & wine sales), Frank Whitman (food & drinks writer), Linda Kavanagh (MaxEx PR), Paul Zocco (Zok’s Homebrewing & Supplies), Ernie Adamo (spirits lover), Steve DeFrank (spirits lover), Dave Sokoloff (spirits lover), Phil Simpson (Asbury Park Distilling), Thomas Henry Strenk (drinks writer), Melissa Dowling (Editor of Cheers), Kyle Swartz (Managing Editor of Beverage Dynamics, Cheers & StateWays), Michael Anstendig (Modern Distillery Age) and Gregg Glaser (Publisher/Editor of Modern Distillery Age).

Catskill Provisions Honey Flavored , 40% Catskill Provisions, Mahopac, N.Y., ~$46 made with New York honey Amber with an aroma of oranges, cherries, rye spice, cardamom, gingerbread and sweetness. Sweet and sugary in the taste with oranges, rye spice and alcohol warmth. A medium body. Finishes with rye spice, sweet honey and alcohol warmth.

Tattersall Bootlegger Citrus Mint Flavored Vodka, 35% Tattersall Distilling, Minneapolis, Minn., ~$30 distilled with a blend of lemon, lime, mint & Tattersall Vodka; meant to be taken with soda water, not on its own Clear with a syrupy sweet aroma plus garden spring mint and spearmint. Spicy in the taste with lemon, lime, mint and ginger. A thin body. Finishes with all the above in the taste; mint, lemon and lime the strongest. As recommended, great with soda water.

Starward Nova, 41% Starward Distillery, Melbourne, Australia, $55 Australian single aged in Australian red wine barrels that previously held Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon & Pinot Noir Light amber with an aroma of fruits, spices and some oak. In the taste are apricots, apples, cherries, dried orchard fruits, The Modern Distillery Age Tasting sweetness and oak. A medium-full body. Panel meets once or twice a month. Samples are sent by distillers and Finishes with light spices, sweetness, fruits importers and are tasted blind. and alcohol warmth. Samples can be sent to: Modern Distillery Age 228 Silvermine Avenue Norwalk, CT 06850

11 june 28, 2019 | Modern Distillery Age Tasting Events & Competitions

New York City — June 10, 2019 New Orleans — July 20, 2019 Chicago — September 25, 2019 Year #23 – October 26, 2019 Deadline for entries is October 11 www.gibcc.com The longest-running and largest such competition on the East Coast.

ULTIMATE SPIRITS 14 Cities — March-November each year www.singlemaltextravaganza.com CHALLENGE 2019

FULL DETAILS AND ENTRY FORM

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12 june 28, 2019 | Modern Distillery Age