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TALES OF THE COCKTAIL SPIRITED AWARDS® WINNERS

July 29, 2023/in Bartending, News

2023 Spirited Awards® Winners!

Tales of the Cocktail Foundation (TOTCF) is honored to announce the Winners of the 17th annual Spirited Awards®. Since its founding in 2007, the Spirited Awards® have become one of the industry’s most revered awards, recognizing beverage professionals, products, and establishments across every facet of the spirits and cocktail community on a global scale. All imagery credited to Cory Fontenot.

INTERNATIONAL CATEGORIES

International Bartender of the Year presented by The Busker

Giorgio Bargiani — Connaught Bar, London, UK

Best International Bar Mentor presented by Tales of the Cocktail Foundation

Agostino Perrone

Best International Brand Ambassador presented by Tales of the Cocktail Foundation

Nicola Riske — The Macallan

Best International Bar Team presented by Angostura Caribbean Rum

ALQUÍMICO — Cartagena, Colombia

Best International Cocktail Bar presented by Patrón Tequila

SIPS — Barcelona, Spain

Best International Hotel Bar presented by Perrier

Jigger & Pony at the Amara Hotel — Singapore

Best International Restaurant Bar presented by Tales of the Cocktail Foundation

Analogue Initiative — Singapore

Best New International Cocktail Bar presented by Diageo Bar Academy

Line Athens — Athens, Greece

U.S. CATEGORIES

U.S. Bartender of the Year presented by Pernod Ricard USA

Christine Wiseman — Marygold’s Brasserie / Broken Shaker, Miami, FL

Best U.S. Bar Mentor presented BarSmarts

Chris Patino

Best U.S. Brand Ambassador presented Libbey

Vance Henderson — Hendrick’s Gin

Best U.S. Bar Team presented by William Grant & Sons

Happy Accidents — Albuquerque, NM

Best U.S. Cocktail Bar presented by Absolut Vodka

Century Grand — Phoenix, AZ

Best U.S. Hotel Bar presented by Grey Goose

Hey Love at The Jupiter — Portland, OR

Best U.S. Restaurant Bar presented by Amaro Montenegro and Select Aperitivo

Café La Trova — Miami, FL

Best New U.S. Cocktail Bar presented by Diageo Bar Academy

Martiny’s — New York, NY

GLOBAL CATEGORIES

Best New Spirit or Cocktail Ingredient presented by Lyre’s Non-Alcoholic

Martini & Rossi Floreale Non Alcoholic Aperitivo

World’s Best Cocktail Menu presented by Diageo Bar Academy

Double Chicken Please — New York, NY

World’s Best Spirits Selection presented by Tales of the Cocktail Foundation

Raised by Wolves — San Diego, CA

Helen David Lifetime Achievement Award presented by William Grant & Sons

Desmond Payne MBE

Timeless International Award presented by Tales of the Cocktail Foundation

Long Bar at the Raffles Hotel Singapore — Singapore

Timeless U.S. Award presented by Tales of the Cocktail Foundation

Tiki-Ti — Los Angeles, CA

Tales Visionary Award Presented by Johnnie Walker

Tiffanie Barriere

World’s Best Bar presented by Tales of the Cocktail Foundation

SIPS – Barcelona, Spain

All imagery credited to Cory Fontenot.

Rémy Martin and Grammy award-winning artist, Usher, Team Up

July 11, 2023/in News

RÉMY MARTIN AND GRAMMY AWARD-WINNING GLOBAL SUPERSTAR USHER TEAM UP TO CELEBRATE NOTES OF LIFE, MUSIC AND COGNAC IN “LIFE IS A MELODY” CAMPAIGN

Rémy Martin & Usher Reunite with New Campaign Celebrating the Harmonious Blend of Music, Culture and Cognac Fine Champagne

Rémy Martin, Cognac Fine Champagne, and Grammy award-winning global superstar Usher team up to debut a new global campaign, “Life is a Melody.” Featuring a track from Usher’s highly anticipated new album, the campaign invites music and spirits enthusiasts alike to embark on a harmonious journey where the notes of Rémy Martin and the melodies of life intertwine in perfect harmony.

The campaign is inspired by the idea that a beautiful melody is created through the harmony of ideas, influences, encounters and experiences – the visuals and movements in “Life is a Melody” capture everyday elements reminiscent of music notes. Teasing fans with a preview of a new song, Comin’ Home, from his highly-anticipated album, Usher takes center stage in the creative, sitting at the piano and enveloped in the embrace of Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal and XO bottles. Every element, from the captivating visuals to the curated soundscapes, showcases the deep connection between Rémy Martin, Usher and the world of music.

“As an artist, I’ve always drawn creative inspiration from different facets of life that are expressed through my music,” says Usher. “I’m incredibly excited to continue my partnership with Rémy Martin, representing their exceptional cognac expressions of 1738 Accord Royal and now, for the first time Rémy Martin XO, sharing an exclusive preview of my new music in a campaign that captures the breadth and endless possibilities of beautiful composition and marvelous melody.”

Alongside Usher, the campaign brings together exceptional creative talents including Director Fleur Fortune, Chief Strategist Partner Aakomon Jones and Choreographer Cathy Ematchoua. With their expertise, these creatives contribute to the symphony of artistic expression, infusing the campaign with fresh energy and elevating the concept that every note, every pour, and every bottle is about more than just taste, it is the culmination of history, place, and people converging to create something truly remarkable.

“Through this partnership, we continue to draw inspiration from music as a timeless source,” said Jean-Philippe Hecquet, Chief Executive Officer of the House of Rémy Martin. “The ‘Life is a Melody’ campaign, in collaboration with Usher, embodies the artistic synergy between Cognac, music, and life itself. This harmony is reflected in the diverse range of tasting notes that blend together to create refined expressions”

“The ‘Life is a Melody’ campaign embodies the fusion of Rémy Martin’s exquisite cognac, the enchantment of music, and the art of roller skating,” says Tina Reejsinghani, Vice President of Luxury Brands at Rémy Cointreau Americas. “This campaign, and the introduction of the Rémy Après Skate and cocktail experience underscores our timeless dedication to the culture of music and to our consumers who value exceptional experiences and the unparalleled craftsmanship of Rémy Martin.”

As an extension of the campaign, Rémy Martin and Usher will embark on a nationwide tour across the US that embraces Usher’s deep connection to skate culture. With its roots intertwined in Usher’s love for music and the vibrant skate communities, the “4 on the Floor” pop-up skate experiences will come to life in cities including New York City, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Chicago, and Atlanta. Each skating experience will be accompanied by an immersive Rémy Après Skate speakeasy for a noteworthy cocktail experience, featuring a selection of specialty cocktails where Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal and XO take center stage, including the UR Way, which spotlights Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal in a fresh, light and refreshing way and a trio of Rémy XO Old Fashion variations that each feature a spicy, fruity and bitter profile.

For more information, click HERE and follow along on social.

Martingale Cognac to Launch in the US this Fall

July 6, 2023/in News

Martingale Cognac, Rooted in More Than 100 Years of Tradition and Craft, to Launch in the US this Fall

Fourth-generation custodians and industry veterans double down and deliver a fresh take on Cognac to honor a family legacy

Martingale Cognac, rooted in more than 100 years of tradition and craft, is set to launch in the US this fall, offering a fresh and more fragrant style of Cognac for a new generation. Inspired by their grandfather’s vision to develop one of the most envied domaines, Martingale emerges from Guillaume Thomas (Founder, CEO, veteran Pernod Ricard executive) and Amaury Thomas (Co-Founder, Master Blender), fourth-generation custodians of one of the most coveted domaines in the appellation. The Thomas cousins invited Andrew Weir (Co-Founder, Chief Commercial and Marketing Officer) on this journey to double down on the family legacy. Martingale marks the first ever branded consumer product from this esteemed domaine, despite their century-long history of making the finest Cognac for some of the most prestigious houses.

(L-R: Amaury Thomas, Guillaume Thomas, Andrew Weir)

Guillaume, who spent 18 years in executive leadership roles within the spirits company Pernod Ricard, was inspired to launch this venture to fulfill his family dream. He shares, “Our grandfather, Raymond, was a restless visionary and true entrepreneur. He was an important figure in the history of Cognac having helped sustain the protected status of the appellation through the post-war era. When faced with obstacles, instead of backing down, he doubled down and found his own martingale, his own recipe for success: hard work, genuine relationships, skills, and craft in Cognac making. We now have everything we need and while my grandfather didn’t get to do this, he was entrusting us as the next generation to create an exceptional Cognac from our own estate. It’s important for us to make our family proud and we embrace the new challenge and expectation to do just that.”

“We supply some of the most prestigious brands in Cognac and have built one of the most coveted vineyards and distilleries in the region,” says Amaury, an agricultural engineer who has spent over a decade managing the family operations in Cognac. He continues, “In honor of my grandfather and our family’s ongoing success in Cognac, we have decided to select some of our finest eaux-de-vie to blend, brand and bottle for the very first time. Our grandfather always encouraged us to be bold and creative. To honor that, we have artfully selected and balanced eaux-de-vie from the top four crus in the area, ultimately creating a unique blend that is tailored to this generation’s tastes; one which delivers a fresher and more fragrant style of Cognac.”

With an innate entrepreneurial spirit, Andrew’s curiosity, creativity, and hard work paved the way for this unique collaboration. With over 15 years of marketing and general management building luxury spirits brands in the US, he shares his enthusiasm for Martingale, “This exceptional Cognac has certainly excited me and will energize the industry and consumers alike. Compared to other spirits categories such as premium whiskies and tequila, Cognac has seen relatively lower levels of innovation. Martingale is uniquely placed to augment and disrupt this iconic category. In my experience leading marketing plans and business growth for luxury spirits, I’ve always been drawn to genuine stories. Martingale’s story is quite incredible, from the vineyards to the distillery, the family chateau, and their obsession with quality. I love the paradox of a 100-year-old producer releasing their first ever product with a fresh, creative, and unexpected take. I am incredibly excited for us to share this story and exceptional liquid with the world.”

Through the family’s initial investment and the strength of the business plan, Martingale has garnered the attention of investors from backgrounds as diverse as music, entertainment, wine/spirits, finance, and more. “Our motivated team and extended family of investors has shown an enormous level of confidence in the opportunity we have before us. We have created a global alliance of passionate individuals eager to embark on this exciting new chapter. This year, my grandfather’s vision and entrepreneurial spirit will be recognized on a whole new level with the unveiling of Martingale,” adds Guillaume.

Campari Announces New Executive Leadership: Melanie Batchelor as Managing Director

July 6, 2023/in News

Campari Group Announces New Executive Leadership Appointments, Promoting Melanie Batchelor as
Managing Director Campari America and
Ugo Fiorenzo as Managing Director BU Americas

Campari Group, the sixth-largest spirits company in the world, today announced two leadership changes for key executives Melanie Batchelor and Ugo Fiorenzo. Effective July 1, 2023, these new appointments will help propel Campari America into 2024.

Following a recent appointment to Managing Director of Sales & RARE for Campari America, Melanie Batchelor will be promoted to Managing Director, Campari America. In this role, Batchelor will lead growth and oversee all functions of the U.S. business.

Batchelor’s leadership and vision have been instrumental in building the strategy for some of the world’s most iconic spirits brands, contributing to Campari’s growth in Australia, Canada, and the U.S. Her accomplishments have led to multiple promotions within the Campari Group organization, including Vice President Spirits, Global Strategic Marketing, Vice President Marketing, Campari, Managing Director of Campari Canada and, most recently, Managing Director of Sales and RARE Division, Campari America. In her new role, Batchelor will continue to report into Ugo Fiorenzo.

“I’ve been fortunate to hold a number of different roles within the Campari Group over my 12-year tenure as a Camparista,” said Batchelor. “However, this role is the most exciting, as the team has built an incredibly strong foundation on which I can help lead continued growth and portfolio premiumization. I’m honored to lead such a dynamic and rapidly growing Company and hope my vision and leadership will spark inspiration for other future leaders at Campari and within our industry.”

This appointment coincides with another leadership development for Ugo Fiorenzo, Managing Director for the United States and Canada, who after leading the U.S for the past seven years, oversaw the company as it doubled its size and led its relocation from San Francisco to New York City, will succeed Mauro Caneschi and take on the role of Managing Director, Business Unit Americas.

In this role, he will lead both in-market operations and partnership markets to increase market growth and accelerate brand penetration. Fiorenzo joined Campari America in 2005 and has been instrumental in Campari Group’s ascension as one of the fastest-growing spirits companies.

During his tenure, he held several leadership roles in Trade Marketing & Sales before becoming Market Head in Jamaica, and he earned industry recognition with his 2022 appointment to Chairman of the Distilled Spirits Council of the U.S. (DISCUS). Fiorenzo will continue to be based in New York City and will oversee Canadian operations until further succession announcements are made.

“I’m delighted for the opportunity to continue growing the Campari Group brands across the Americas,” said Ugo Fiorenzo. “It’s a business with an impressive global footprint, portfolio of brands, and talented team. In this new role, I’m committed to accelerating our business performance and helping to serve the millions of consumers who enjoy responsibly our spirits every day.”

Loud Lemon Parker McCollum | Bartender.com

Country Star Parker McCollum and Loud Lemon Announce Partnership

July 5, 2023/in News

Country Star Parker McCollum and Loud Lemon Announce Partnership

Fast-growing adult beverage brand Loud Lemon has partnered with country music superstar Parker McCollum. What began as an investment at the brand’s inception during Covid has now blossomed into a full-blown collaboration that includes a co-created flavor for the brand’s new line of vodka-based Lemonade Cocktails: a flavor they call Cranberry Sunrise.

Loud Lemon Parker McCollum | Bartender.com

Jeff Outlaw, Founder and CEO of Loud Lemon, said the pandemic allowed the brand and Parker to develop a vision for a true partnership. “COVID-19 was an obstacle in many ways, but it gave us and Parker the time to understand each other better and create work that makes sense. Collaborating with Parker to create the new Cranberry Sunrise flavor showcases the truest kind of partnership. We’re lucky and proud to have Parker on our team,” said Outlaw.

Parker McCollum praised Loud Lemon, saying it’s a brand he shares values with and respects. “Their motto is to ‘Live Out Loud,’ and that means celebrating life, being authentic and working hard. When Jeff approached me and Hallie Ray to create the new flavor, we jumped at the chance. Cranberry Sunrise turned out delicious and I’m excited to be part of such a fun, innovative company with such a passionate Founder,” said McCollum.

Outlaw said working with Parker and Hallie Ray on the new flavor was a blast. “We wanted something bold and refreshing for our Lemonade Cocktail line, and Cranberry Sunrise hits all those marks and more. Parker’s attention to detail and business acumen have given me a deeper appreciation for him. He’s a pro in everything he does, except for golf,” said Outlaw.

Golf is one of many mutual interests that bond Outlaw and McCollum. Both are fanatical about the game and incredibly competitive. McCollum is said to play every day while on tour often joined by Outlaw. From the first time they walked onto a golf course together, score and detail has been kept for every round. “It’s really about the camaraderie and fellowship and not so much about who is winning,” says Outlaw as McCollum grins and adds “looks like we know who is down a couple matches this year.” Golf will be one area of focus in a very busy activation schedule supporting the partnership.

McCollum, a Conroe, Texas native, is one of country’s biggest rising stars. He just celebrated his third number one since signing with Universal Music Group and MCA Records. He is launching his second album, Never Enough, on the label this month.

“We’re thrilled to be partnering with Parker,” Outlaw said. “He’s a star on stage and in life, he is a brilliant businessman surrounded by amazing people, and there is so much we are going to do together as a team.”

HENNESSY AND NAS CELEBRATE HIP HOP’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY

July 5, 2023/in News

HENNESSY AND HIP HOP ICON, NAS, JOIN FORCES TO CELEBRATE HIP HOP’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY

Hip Hop’s 50^th celebration marks the debut of a Limited-Edition Bottle, designed in collaboration with Nas, and a global call-to-action for fans to ‘Rep Yours’

Hennessy, the world’s best-selling Cognac and the most namedropped spirit in Hip Hop, is celebrating the 50th anniversary of Hip Hop. Recognizing 50 years of Hip Hop, and as a symbolic toast to the next 50, Hennessy is releasing a Limited-Edition Hennessy V.S bottle, designed in partnership with Grammy-Award winning rap legend, Nas. Hennessy is celebrating Hip Hop’s different flavors, styles, rhythms and flows, and the “Never stop. Never settle.” energy that embodies everything both Hennessy and Hip Hop do.

On July 20, Hennessy and Nas will come together to unveil the commemorative Limited-Edition, with a never seen before HenNASsy logo at an exclusive digital mapping event that will showcase the breadth and depth of Hip Hop culture. As part of the high-energy celebration, Hennessy will launch Hennessy AI.bum Covers, an AI-led, social-first experience transforming selfies into personalized album covers based on iconic Hip Hop eras. A chapter of the brand’s innovative, social-driven Rep Yours campaign, calling on fans to show what Hip Hop means to them through an immersive digital expression.

Hip Hop is a vibration of the people and means something different to each country, state, city, and neighborhood. The Rep Yours campaign means representing the innovators who came before and the artists who are up next – celebrating Hip Hop’s 50^th birthday while also pushing the limits for the next 50 years. Hennessy and Nas have maintained a meaningful relationship transcending generations and cultures for over a decade, solidifying Hennessy’s longstanding legacy in Hip Hop.

“Hennessy has been an undeniable mainstay in Hip Hop, intricately woven into the fabric of the genre and its global influence for decades,” said Jasmin Allen, Senior Vice President, Hennessy USA. “We’re proud to honor Hip Hop’s 50^th anniversary with a pioneer of the art and culture – Hip Hop icon, Nas – as we celebrate the debut of our collaborative Limited-Edition Bottle.”

To capture the spirit of Hip Hop, Nas narrated a film in partnership with Renell Medrano, renowned photographer, who grew up in the Bronx and takes inspiration from her New York roots. This film serves as Nas’ love letter to Hip Hop and will feature imagery of the new Limited-Edition Hennessy V.S Bottle.

“It means a lot to me to celebrate this legendary moment in Hip Hop history with Hennessy, a brand that has supported me for over 10 years,” said Nas. “Hennessy is part of our culture and continues to inspire generations of Hip Hop fans, so I’m really proud to share our new Limited-Edition bottle with the world.”

To bring the flair and flavor of the celebratory launch party to 21+ consumers at home, while highlighting Hennessy’s influential role in Hip Hop history, Hennessy’s expert mixologists have crafted three unique cocktails, pulling in elements of reminiscent Hip Hop flavors, to celebrate Hip Hop 50:

The Big Apple: Hennessy’s homage to the birthplace of Hip Hop and inspired by Nas. The fruity notes of Hennessy V.S compliment the cinnamon apple flavors prominent in the Big Apple cocktail.

THE BIG APPLE

1.5 oz Hennessy V.S
1.5 oz Apple Juice
0.5 oz Maple Syrup
0.5 oz Lime Juice
1 Cinnamon Stick garnish

To round out the festivities, on August 11, Hip Hop’s official birth date, Hennessy will be partnering with its Team Hennessy ambassadors across 14 U.S. markets to host unique celebrations in honor of Hip Hop’s birthday. Staying true to Hip Hop’s roots, each Team Hennessy activation will be representative of their city’s contributions to the genre and toasting Hip Hop in a way only Hennessy can.

Hennessy has a longstanding relationship with Hip Hop, having been featured in more Hip Hop songs over the years than any other alcohol brand. Undeniably representing the past, present, and future of Hip Hop, Hennessy is uniquely positioned to continue influencing the culture of the genre for the next 50 years.

1800 TEQUILA UNVEILS “ESSENTIAL ARTIST SERIES” WITH DUSTIN YELLIN

July 3, 2023/in News

1800 TEQUILA UNVEILS THE 11TH EDITION OF ITS “ESSENTIAL ARTIST SERIES” WITH BROOKLYN-BASED CONTEMPORARY ARTIST DUSTIN YELLIN

The six-bottle collection features original contemporary work from Dustin Yellin, with $1 from every bottle sold donated to his artist and scientist-led cultural center, Pioneer Works

d8c8564ccd2f79ebc34497e6d9a04f58df84f740 | Bartender.com

1800 Tequila, the world’s most awarded tequila brand, today announced the 11th edition of its “Essential Artist Series”, reaffirming its role in celebrating the best taste in tequila and in life. Featuring a collaboration with Brooklyn-based contemporary artist and founder of Pioneer Works, Dustin Yellin, the latest Essential Artist Series celebrates the harmonious fusion between art and tequila.

The 1800 Tequila Essential Artist Series is a testament to the brand’s continued support of emerging and established artists to shape the art community. Through these annual collaborations, 1800 Tequila has partnered with renowned artists, including Okuda San Miguel, Shantell Martin, Enoc Perez, and the Basquiat and Haring estates. With each artist, 1800 Tequila further pushes the boundaries of best in taste by providing creators with alternative canvases to reach new audiences through creating collaborative and bespoke bottles of 1800 Blanco Tequila that become sought-after collectibles.

For Essential Artist Series 11, 1800 Tequila selected Dustin Yellin as its hero creator for their shared values across craft, community, and curiosity. The collection presents six limited-edition bottles showcasing original works by Yellin, inspired by his “Psychogeography Series,” which teases the tension between nature and technology through narrative and visual transfiguration. Each of his six designs feature intricate details of human interaction–with each other and with nature–backdropped by different celestial bodies.

“I have been an admirer of 1800 Tequila and its Essential Artists Series for many years now and am incredibly honored to have been selected as this year’s featured artist,” said Dustin Yellin. “1800 Tequila is an artist-forward brand that celebrates innovation, creativity and culture, in a similar way to which I approach art. I’m excited to present our synergies and my artwork through this collaboration on the classic 1800 Tequila Blanco bottles.”

As part of the brand’s dedication to moving culture forward and support of emerging artists, $1 from each 1800 Tequila Essential Artist Series 11 bottle sold will be donated to Yellin’s non-profit, Pioneer Works, an artist and scientist-led cultural center in Brooklyn, New York. With a mission to build community through arts and sciences to create an open and curious world, Pioneer Works provides visual and performing artists, musicians, scientists, technologists, community organizers, and educators the resources and platform they need to expand their practices.

“1800 Tequila has long prioritized taste above all else – not only in tequila, but extending to the arts, culture and beyond,” said Lander Otegui, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Proximo Spirits. “The brand’s continuous liquid innovation and passion for moving culture forward find likeness in Yellin’s commitment to progressive, purposeful art and support of emerging artists. We welcome Dustin to the esteemed group of 1800 Tequila Essential Artists collaborators and are proud to be raising money for emerging artists with every bottle sold.”

Matt Appleby Zamora Company USA CEO 1 | Bartender.com

Matt Appleby Named CEO at Zamora Company USA

June 26, 2023/in News

Matt Appleby Named CEO at Zamora Company USA

The Zamora Company, owner of popular premium wine and spirits brands including Licor 43, Yellow Rose Whiskey, Martin Miller’s Gin, and Ramón Bilbao wines, has announced that Matt Appleby has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of its Dallas, TX- based U.S. business cluster Zamora Company USA, succeeding Bill Corbett who retired as CEO and is now serving in a senior advisor role through September 2023.

Appleby, who joined Zamora Company USA in 2019 as Marketing Director, has been functioning as the Spanish company’s interim U.S. CEO since November 2022 and will now assume full responsibility in the role, reporting to Javier Pijoan, CEO at Zamora Company, which is headquartered in Madrid. During his tenure at Zamora Company USA, Appleby has helped the organization increase net sales by +56% and total volume by +37%. The company’s flagship Licor 43 Spanish liqueur brand posted volume growth of +140% in the U.S. from 2018 to 2022.

“Few companies in this competitive industry have grown as fast and as successfully as Zamora Company USA, and that’s a testament not only to our talented team and our world-class wine and spirits brands, but also to the vision and leadership of the Zamora Family who understood the opportunity and the importance of creating a U.S.-based business cluster here five years ago,” says Appleby. “I’m proud and honored to step into this role and take on the privilege of leading and building this organization into a top-20 wine and spirits supplier in the U.S.”

Prior to Zamora Company USA, Appleby spent more than 20 years in senior management roles in sales and marketing at Rebecca Creek Distillery, Remy Cointreau USA, Brown-Forman, Pernod-Ricard, Red Bull North America, and Glazer’s Distributors.

“The U.S. is a crucial market for Zamora Company, which we firmly believe could top 30% of our global business within the next several years,” says Pijoan. “Matt’s impressive experience and strategic expertise in this market, coupled with his ability to build and lead high-performing teams, will no doubt help continue to position Zamora Company USA as one of the premiere suppliers in this important market.”

For more information, please click here

Coca-Cola HBC buys Finlandia vodka for $220M

June 19, 2023/in News

Coca-Cola HBC buys Finlandia vodka for $220M

Brown-Forman announced that that it has reached an agreement to sell its Finlandia vodka brand to Coca-Cola HBC AG for $220 million, subject to the customary closing process. The purchase is expected to close in the second half of the 2023 calendar year.

“Finlandia has played an important role in the global growth of Brown-Forman. Since the brand originally joined our portfolio in 2000, many talented individuals have worked hard to bring Finlandia vodka to the world, and I thank them for their dedication,” said Lawson Whiting, President and Chief Executive Officer, Brown-Forman Corporation. “We believe Coca-Cola HBC is well-suited to support Finlandia’s future growth and look forward to watching the continued evolution of the brand in their capable hands.”

“We are excited and privileged to become the new home for Finlandia vodka. This unique opportunity for us will support our mixability strategy with our core Non-Alcoholic Ready-To-Drink portfolio and sharpen our focus on the strategically important on-premise channel. We are already developing strong plans to take Finlandia to the next level by accelerating and leveraging the brand’s current momentum,” said Zoran Bogdanovic, Chief Executive Officer, Coca-Cola HBC AG. “Lastly, I would like to welcome the Finlandia team to the Coca-Cola HBC family and look forward to great successes.”

Brown-Forman has managed the shape and contents of its portfolio over the last decade and a half through developing, acquiring, and divesting various businesses and brands. The company acquired Finlandia from Altia Corp. (predecessor to the current production partner Anora Group Plc) in multiple phases, obtaining full ownership in 2004.

We are interested to see how this comes to life and how Coca-Cola uses this for their RTD’s!

Father’s Day Gifts and Cocktails

June 17, 2023/in News

Gifts and Cocktails for Father’s Day 2023

Happy Father’s Day to Dad’s around the World! Take a look at some of these gift suggestions along with a few cocktails below and cheers to all this weekend!

GIFTS FOR DAD:

For the Red Wine Loving day the Le Portteus Red Wine Decanter is the perfect gift and will enhanced wine-drinking experience and its chic design!

For the Dad that is NEW to bartending may we suggest the 6th Edition of Bartending for Dummies! A book of our own creation and hard work that was recently brought to life…so it feels like one of our babies!

A great mixer for Dad’s cocktails, is Uncle Waithley’s “Vincy” Brew a ginger beer with a Scotch Bonnet Bite! This is truly something else and is not only delicious on its own but incredible as cocktail mixer as featured below!

If you are looking for a bottle for Dad; check these out below!

For the Dad that loves coffee but also needs a great coffee cocktail after work… look into Mr. Black! Mr. Black is an extraordinary coffee liqueur that combined two much-loved slices of Australian life: good drinks and great coffee. This Coffee Negroni is a sure to bring a smile to Dad’s face.

Koloa Rum Company‘s award-winning premium rums are the perfect Father’s Day gift for the cocktail enthusiast. If he likes “talking story” with you about the taste and finish of every drink he imbibes, enjoys concocting classic cocktail recipes, and craves tropical flavors that transport him to a tranquil beach on Hawaii, he’ll love Koloa Rum.

93-PROOF BOURBON STRAIGHT WHISKEY – Harlem Standard Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a high-rye blend created at Indiana’s historic MGP distillery and extracted from a fermented grain mash. Aged 4+ years and charred in American white oak barrels, you’ll savor the smoothness of mellow spice and roasted nuts. This well-rounded blend heightened by faint fruity notes and a vanilla bean finish. This bourbon is best served neat and sipped slowly. US$55.00

COCKTAILS FOR DAD:

Hibiscus Palmer

1.5 oz Teremana Reposado
1 oz Lemon Juice
.75 oz Simple Syrup
Top w/ Hibiscus Tea (Approx 3 oz)

Shake with ice and strain into collins glass. Top w/ Hibiscus Tea.

Híjole Pineapple Chili Margarita

1 ½ oz. Híjole! Tequila

¾ oz. Triple Sec

2 oz Pineapple Juice

¾ oz. Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice

1 dash Hot Sauce

Coarse Salt and/or Tajin Seasoning, for rim

Pineapple wedge and Lime wheel, for garnish

Pour the tequila, triple sec, lime and pineapple juices and hot sauce into a cocktail shaker. Fill with ice and shake vigorously. Strain the cocktail into the class. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and lime wheel.

Caribbean Mule

2 oz. Fig Vodka

1 oz. Lime juice

1/2 oz. Simple syrup

1 oz. Uncle Waithley’s Vincy Brew

Please stay safe and always drink responsibly. If you are going out today, please be kind to each other and always #TipYourBartenders

Browse News Articles and Recipes

TALES OF THE COCKTAIL SPIRITED AWARDS® WINNERS

2023 Spirited Awards® Winners!

Rémy Martin and Grammy award-winning artist, Usher, Team Up

RÉMY MARTIN AND GRAMMY AWARD-WINNING GLOBAL SUPERSTAR USHER TEAM UP TO CELEBRATE NOTES OF LIFE, MUSIC AND COGNAC IN “LIFE IS A MELODY” CAMPAIGN

Martingale Cognac to Launch in the US this Fall

Martingale Cognac, Rooted in More Than 100 Years of Tradition and Craft, to Launch in the US this Fall

Fourth-generation custodians and industry veterans double down and deliver a fresh take on Cognac to honor a family legacy

Campari Announces New Executive Leadership: Melanie Batchelor as Managing Director

Campari Group Announces New Executive Leadership Appointments, Promoting Melanie Batchelor as
Managing Director Campari America and
Ugo Fiorenzo as Managing Director BU Americas

Country Star Parker McCollum and Loud Lemon Announce Partnership

Country Star Parker McCollum and Loud Lemon Announce Partnership

HENNESSY AND NAS CELEBRATE HIP HOP’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY

HENNESSY AND HIP HOP ICON, NAS, JOIN FORCES TO CELEBRATE HIP HOP’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY

Hip Hop’s 50^th celebration marks the debut of a Limited-Edition Bottle, designed in collaboration with Nas, and a global call-to-action for fans to ‘Rep Yours’

1800 TEQUILA UNVEILS “ESSENTIAL ARTIST SERIES” WITH DUSTIN YELLIN

1800 TEQUILA UNVEILS THE 11TH EDITION OF ITS “ESSENTIAL ARTIST SERIES” WITH BROOKLYN-BASED CONTEMPORARY ARTIST DUSTIN YELLIN

Matt Appleby Named CEO at Zamora Company USA

Matt Appleby Named CEO at Zamora Company USA

Coca-Cola HBC buys Finlandia vodka for $220M

Coca-Cola HBC buys Finlandia vodka for $220M

Father’s Day Gifts and Cocktails

Gifts and Cocktails for Father’s Day 2023

GIFTS FOR DAD:

If you are looking for a bottle for Dad; check these out below!

COCKTAILS FOR DAD:

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2023 Spirited Awards® Winners!

RÉMY MARTIN AND GRAMMY AWARD-WINNING GLOBAL SUPERSTAR USHER TEAM UP TO CELEBRATE NOTES OF LIFE, MUSIC AND COGNAC IN “LIFE IS A MELODY” CAMPAIGN

Martingale Cognac, Rooted in More Than 100 Years of Tradition and Craft, to Launch in the US this Fall

Fourth-generation custodians and industry veterans double down and deliver a fresh take on Cognac to honor a family legacy

Campari Group Announces New Executive Leadership Appointments, Promoting Melanie Batchelor as Managing Director Campari America and Ugo Fiorenzo as Managing Director BU Americas

Country Star Parker McCollum and Loud Lemon Announce Partnership

HENNESSY AND HIP HOP ICON, NAS, JOIN FORCES TO CELEBRATE HIP HOP’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY

Hip Hop’s 50th celebration marks the debut of a Limited-Edition Bottle, designed in collaboration with Nas, and a global call-to-action for fans to ‘Rep Yours’

1800 TEQUILA UNVEILS THE 11TH EDITION OF ITS “ESSENTIAL ARTIST SERIES” WITH BROOKLYN-BASED CONTEMPORARY ARTIST DUSTIN YELLIN

Matt Appleby Named CEO at Zamora Company USA

Coca-Cola HBC buys Finlandia vodka for $220M

Gifts and Cocktails for Father’s Day 2023

GIFTS FOR DAD:

If you are looking for a bottle for Dad; check these out below!

COCKTAILS FOR DAD:

The Number one Source & Authority on Bartending, On Premise and Beyond!

Bartending

Recipes

Campari Group Announces New Executive Leadership Appointments, Promoting Melanie Batchelor as
Managing Director Campari America and
Ugo Fiorenzo as Managing Director BU Americas

Hip Hop’s 50^th celebration marks the debut of a Limited-Edition Bottle, designed in collaboration with Nas, and a global call-to-action for fans to ‘Rep Yours’