The Bardstown Bourbon Company Hires Rising Industry Star As New Executive Director of Distillery Operations

The Bardstown Bourbon Company Hires Rising Industry Star As New Executive Director of Distillery Operations

Bardstown, KY (August 31, 2017)The Bardstown Bourbon Company (BBCo), the largest new bourbon distillery in America, announced today the hiring of John Hargrove, the former Master Distiller and Distillery Manager, at Sazerac and Barton Brands 1792 in Bardstown, Kentucky. Mr. Hargrove will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the distillery, interfacing with BBCo’s Collaborative Distilling Partners, and working closely with Steve Nally, BBCo’s Master Distiller, in advancing BBCo’s distillery innovation program and the development of BBCo’s brands.

“John Hargrove is a fast rising star in the whiskey industry, and we could not be prouder to have him join the exceptional team we’re building at The Bardstown Bourbon Company,” said David Mandell, President & CEO, The Bardstown Bourbon Company. “With the rapid expansion of The Bardstown Bourbon Company’s distillery operations, it’s critical we attract the most talented individuals to continue to produce the highest quality whiskey, bourbon, and rye for ourselves and our customers.”

Mr. Hargrove comes to BBCo with and extensive background in contract manufacturing, quality control, customer service, and whiskey distilling. John started with Sazerac as the Quality/Continuous Improvement Manager at the Barton 1792 Distillery and quickly rose through the ranks to Master Distiller. Prior to joining Sazerac, John obtained a wealth of experience working with Quaker Oats/PepsiCo in various roles where he had the opportunity to focus on innovation, process improvement, and project management.

“I’m excited to join a company like BBCo that is reshaping the whiskey industry,” said John Hargrove. “The Bardstown Bourbon Company is supplying some of the finest brands in the world, with its one-of-a-kind, custom whiskey production program, and I am eager to help advance their growth.”

John will lead a distilling team with more than 30 production employees. The team has an average of more than 15 years of whiskey making experience, working with world-class distilleries such as, including Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark, Barton Brands, and Heaven Hill. John joins the company at a time of fast-paced growth. Due to the success of the BBCo Collaborative Distilling Program and massive demand for custom, authentic, Kentucky whiskey products, the company recently expanded the distillery to its current three million proof gallon capacity.

Mr. Hargrove replaces Tom Crume, who retires from BBCo as the Distillery Manager on September 1, 2017.  John will start at BBCo on September 15, 2017.

ABOUT THE BARDSTOWN BOURBON COMPANY

The Bardstown Bourbon Company is a celebration of the art of making whiskey. No secrets, mythical stories, or fabricated legends, The Bardstown Bourbon Company celebrates the craft of making great whiskey and the Bardstown community that brings bourbon to the world.

BBCo is also developing a destination experience with a unique Napa Valley style estate featuring a state-of-the-art whiskey distillery, transparent educational experience, integrated visitors center, event space, vintage spirits and whiskey library, bar, and restaurant. The company also plans to develop a boutique hotel on the property. The Company anticipates announcing an opening date for its visitors’ center in the near future.

The company was founded in 2014 by Peter Loftin, David Mandell, Daniel Linde, and Garnett Black.

To learn more about The Bardstown Bourbon Company visit:

www.bardstownbourbon.com

www.facebook.com/bardstownbourboncompany

www.twitter.com/btownbourbon

www.peterloftin.com

Bardstown Bourbon Company Hires Former Executive Director of Restaurant Operations for the Internationally Renowned Greenbrier Resort

Bardstown Bourbon Company Hires Former Executive Director of Restaurant Operations for the Internationally Renowned Greenbrier Resort

Pedro Gonzalez to Lead the Development and Operations of BBCo’s Food & Beverage Experience

Bardstown, KY (August 2, 2017)The Bardstown Bourbon Company (BBCo), the largest new bourbon distillery in America, announced today the hiring of Pedro Gonzalez, the former Executive Director of Restaurant Operations for the Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. Mr. Gonzalez will lead the development and operations of BBCo’s restaurant, whiskey and vintage spirits bar, and hospitality experience.

“We are thrilled to have Pedro Gonzalez join the Bardstown Bourbon Company’s team,” said David Mandell, President & CEO of The Bardstown Bourbon Company. “Pedro Gonzalez understands the art of hospitality, and he will play a critical role in the development of our world-class food and beverage program.”

Mr. Gonzalez comes to BBCo with more than 30 years of restaurant development and operations experience. At the Greenbrier Resort, Mr. Gonzalez served as Executive Director of Restaurants, Director of Food & Beverage, and Director of Fine Dining, and was responsible for all operations in more than 16 food and beverage outlets. Prior to the Greenbrier, Mr. Gonzalez opened and managed restaurants for Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Sullivan’s Steakhouse, Maggiano’s of Little Italy, and The Cheesecake Factory.

“I am honored to be a part of this unique company,” said Pedro Gonzalez. “The opportunity to build a one-of-a-kind hospitality experience in ‘The Bourbon Capital of the World’ in Bardstown, Kentucky, is an exciting challenge, and one that I am thrilled to take on.”

Mr. Gonzalez will be responsible for bringing to life the Company’s vision for a

Napa Valley-style bourbon and food experience in the center of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. BBCo is planning to open a full-scale restaurant that incorporates food grown on its 100 acres of active farmland, local flavors, and bourbon culture. Unlike other distilleries, BBCo will also celebrate, showcase, and sell by the drink an extensive whiskey collection, including a vintage spirits library. With the recent changes in Kentucky law, BBCo will operate a full-bar that will be open to the public as well as available for corporate events and parties.

“We will not simply provide tours or meals, we will create one-of-a-kind experiences,” said Pedro Gonzalez. “Our goal is to create memories that last forever and can be shared with friends and loved ones.”

In addition, within the visitors’ center, the company will offer a transparent educational experience that brings the customer as close to the bourbon making process as possible and incorporates elements from its culinary program.

The Company anticipates announcing an opening date for its visitors’ center in the near future.

ABOUT THE BARDSTOWN BOURBON COMPANY

The Bardstown Bourbon Company is a celebration of the art of making whiskey. No secrets, mythical stories, or fabricated legends, the Bardstown Bourbon Company celebrates the craft of making great whiskey and the Bardstown community that brings bourbon to the world.

Due to the success of the BBCo Collaborative Distilling Program and massive demand for custom, authentic, Kentucky whiskey products, the company recently expanded the distillery to its current three million proof gallon capacity. The footprint can ultimately be expanded to more than six million proof gallons within the current design, by adding additional equipment.

BBCo is also in the process of developing its own unique line of bourbon, whiskey and rye. The company anticipates having brands ready for the market starting this year.

To learn more about The Bardstown Bourbon Company visit:

www.bardstownbourbon.com

www.facebook.com/bardstownbourboncompany

www.twitter.com/btownbourbon

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Traverse City Whiskey Co. Refining the Standard for Craft Spirits

Traverse City Whiskey Co. Refining the Standard for Craft Spirits

Made in Michigan, the “Whiskey of the North” Boasts a Diverse Portfolio of Award-Winning Expressions Now Available in the U.S.

Traverse City, MI (July 18, 2017)Traverse City Whiskey Co. (TCWC), is a portfolio of premium whiskies and bourbon made in Michigan. Known as the “Whiskey of the North,” the upstart company draws upon its early family roots in the distilled spirits industry dating back to the late 1800’s, sourcing all their grains (corn, rye and malted barley) from the Midwest.

The distilling team, led by Chris Fredrickson, Jared Rapp and Moti Goldring, strives to make quality products, inspired by patented distilling techniques invented by Fredrickson’s great grandfather that were approved by the US PTO during the prohibition era.

“Family history, good friends and passion for quality bourbon led to an idea and we’re thrilled with how our brands have been received,” said Chris Fredrickson, Co-founder, Traverse City Whiskey Co. “Our whiskey portfolio offers something for everyone, from the bourbon novice to the aficionado.”

The TCWC portfolio includes:

  • Straight Bourbon Whiskey ($33) – Aged four years and bottled at 43% ABV. This sophisticated bourbon offers a timeless profile (71% corn, 25% rye and 4% malted barley), revealing hints of vanilla, citrus undertones and a smooth finish. Kosher Certified.
  • American Cherry Edition ($30) – Straight from the “Cherry Capital of the World” this unique whiskey (71% corn, 25% rye and 4% malt barley) features hints of cherry from Fredrickson Orchards. This expression, extremely authentic to northern Michigan, has more than 10 pounds of Montmorency Sour Cherries infused in every barrel (for at least two weeks). A Silver Medal Winner at the 2016 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, it exhibits a subtle cherry taste paired with the smooth vanilla finish bourbon. No added sugar. Kosher Certified.
  • North Coast Rye ($40) – This unique blend of two mash bills: 100% rye and 95% rye and 5% malted barley is barreled at 120 proof and bottled at 90 proof. This rye whiskey has a minimum age statement of three years and is the company’s newest addition to the whiskey line-up.

At the brand’s Stillhouse in Traverse City, Michigan, which opened in 2014, guests can experience the complete distilling process firsthand. A 400-gallon, custom Kothe still sits next to the Tasting Room and Stillhouse Cocktail Bar where visitors conclude their tour.

When the still, which is naturally cooled by Michigan ground water, is running at full capacity, it can create up to 800 barrels of whiskey per year.

The facility also contains a visitor center and gift shop, where guests can purchase brand gear and limited-edition whiskey expressions only available at the Stillhouse, including:

  • Port Barrel Finish ($40) – Traverse City Whiskey Company signature bourbon, aged three years, rested for an additional year in a Port Wine barrel and bottled at 43% ABV. This limited-edition offering reveals warm, earthy notes and was crafted to sip on the rocks or mixed into a Manhattan cocktail. Kosher Certified; 2016 Ultimate Beverage Challenge (94 Points).
  • Barrel Proof Bourbon ($75) – Barreled at 115 proof and bottled four years later, the Barrel Proof Bourbon is the most premium expression in the Traverse City Whiskey Co. line-up. Once the Barrel Proof cask reaches maturity, it is pumped through a filter to remove any residual charcoal and transferred directly into the bottles. It’s commonly referred to as the purest, untouched version of whiskey.

Later this year, the company plans to release several additional limited-edition expressions in 200ML bottles.

Located at 201 E. 14th St. in downtown Traverse City, the Stillhouse is open to the public seven days a week. Stillhouse tours, which typically last around 25 minutes, are offered weekdays starting at 4pm and weekends by reservation. Admission is $10 per person and includes a whiskey sample of the visitor’s choice. Make reservations by phone (231-922-8292) or online at www.traversecitywhiskey.com/tour. Walk-ins are accepted (subject to availability).

TCWC products are available in 750ml bottles at both on- and off-premise establishments in the following markets: Arizona, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Washington DC, Wisconsin. Retail prices may vary by market.

For more information, please visit www.traversecitywhiskey.com and follow the brand on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @tcwhiskey

About Traverse City Whiskey Co.

Traverse City Whiskey Co. is an independent and locally owned distilled spirits company based in Traverse City, Michigan, that’s dedicated to producing approachable premium to super-premium whiskey and bourbon. Known as “The Whiskey of the North,” the upstart company draws upon its early family roots in the distilled spirits industry dating back to the late 1800’s, sourcing all grains from the Midwest.

Traverse City Whiskey Co. is a proud member of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS).

 

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The Bardstown Bourbon Company Announces the Appointment of John J. Mack to its Board of Directors

The Bardstown Bourbon Company Announces the Appointment of John J. Mack to its Board of Directors

Bardstown, KY (July 18, 2017)The Bardstown Bourbon Company (BBCo), the largest new distillery in America, announced today the appointment of John J. Mack to its Board of Directors. Mr. Mack is the former Chairman and CEO of Morgan Stanley, having served in those roles from 2005 to 2011.

“The Bardstown Bourbon Company is honored to have John Mack join the Board,” said Peter Loftin, Chairman of BBCo. “John is an extremely accomplished business leader and an experienced board member in both the public and non-profit sectors. We are confident that BBCo will greatly benefit from his judgment, insights, and counsel.”

Mr. Mack currently serves as Chairman of Lantern Credit and is also on the Board of Glencore International AG, Lending Club, Bloomberg Family Foundation and Tri Alpha Energy. In addition, he serves on the Board of Trustees of New York-Presbyterian Hospital and the University Hospital of both Columbia and Cornell.

Mr. Mack’s appointment expands the BBCo Board to four directors, including Peter Loftin, Founder and Chairman of BBCo, David Mandell, Founder and President & CEO of BBCo, and Jeff Hopmayer, Managing Partner of the Brindiamo Group.

Due to the success of the BBCo Collaborative Distilling Program and massive demand for custom, authentic, Kentucky whiskey products, the company recently expanded the distillery to its current 3 million proof gallon capacity. The footprint can ultimately be expanded to more than six million proof gallons within the current design, by adding additional equipment.

ABOUT THE BARDSTOWN BOURBON COMPANY

The Bardstown Bourbon Company is a celebration of the art of making whiskey. No secrets, mythical stories, or fabricated legends, the Bardstown Bourbon Company celebrates the craft of making great whiskey and the Bardstown community that brings bourbon to the world.

The Company is developing a destination experience with a first-of-its-kind Napa Valley style campus featuring a state-of-the-art whiskey distillery, unique and transparent educational experience, integrated visitors center, event space, and whiskey library, bar, and restaurant.

To learn more about The Bardstown Bourbon Company visit:

www.bardstownbourbon.com

www.facebook.com/bardstownbourboncompany

www.twitter.com/btownbourbon

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Chasing Harvest Introduces Its First Rosé Wine from New Zealand Just in Time for Summer

Chasing Harvest Introduces Its First Rosé Wine from New Zealand Just in Time for Summer

Chicago, Ill. (June 21, 2017) Chasing Harvest, the premium wine brand handcrafted by the husband and wife team of Mike Kush and Jennifer Kingen Kush, is pleased to launch its first Rosé wine. Sourced from New Zealand’s Central Otago region, the brand’s newest offering since its 2014 Riesling is made from the pinot noir grape. Using a unique Champagne press cycle and minimizing skin contact the wine is fermented and aged in neutral French oak barrels, which results in a wine great texture, elegant aromatics and delicate pink hue. 

Chasing Harvest 2016 Rosé is a dry wine that exhibits traits that are characteristic of the noble varietal of Pinot Noir and the Central Otago, New Zealand region.

“At Chasing Harvest, we produce distinctive wines that best reflect our favorite wine regions,” said Mike Kush, winemaker. “While most Rosé comes from France, the Central Otago region produces some of the best pinot noir in the world. Our first Rosé is a unique expression of Pinot Noir employing techniques of both Champagne and Provence to create an elegant and characterful Rose.”

Chasing Harvest offers a variety of wines sourced from two of the world’s most exciting wine regions – The Douro Valley, Portugal, and Central Otago, New Zealand. The brand name represents the couple’s travel between the Northern and Southern hemisphere for the harvest, which happen at opposite times of the year. Although they call Chicago home, the duo spends a few months of each year in both wine regions: New Zealand (spring) and Portugal (fall). Having strong partnerships with local growers in these regions has afforded them the opportunity to produce their own label from top vineyards. The team’s very first crush produced a 2009 Pinot Noir (New Zealand), which quickly sold out. Shortly thereafter, they began making unique blends like a Douro DOC Vinho Tinto and Douro DOC Vinho Branco, both from Portugal.

Chasing Harvest wines are currently available in select on- and off-premise establishments in Chicago, Indianapolis, Southern California, and New Zealand. The team produced only 69 cases of the 2016 Chasing Harvest Rosé, which can be purchased for $20.00 per 750ml bottle. For more information (including availability and tasting notes) and to sign up for the brand’s mailing list, please visit www.chasingharvest.com

Follow the brand on facebook https://www.facebook.com/chasing.harvest and twitter @chasingharvest https://twitter.com/chasingharvest 

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